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filtonvoice January, 2013 Issue 16
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Independents now biggest ‘party’ on Filton Town Council. Turn to Page 3
LETTERS, PAGES 14&15 | BUSINESS OF THE MONTH, PAGE 35
End of an era
After more than 100 years of aviation heritage, Filton Airfield falls silent
Six pages of views and reaction, starting on P4
PLUS
Man. 88, is victim of distraction burglars in Filton Page 27
Foodbank given thousands of Christmas meals Page 25
Nicky’s award for work with first aid charity
Our children are being put at risk New rail station by speeding drivers at Filton Avenue for Filton takes crossing, say angry mums step forward
Page 17
Page 11
Page 36
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Local information South Gloucestershire Council www.southglos.gov.uk 01454 868009 Safer Stronger team sscg@southglos.gov.uk 01454 868009 Anti social behaviour team asbreporting@southglos.gov.uk 01454 868582 Streetcare/litter/vandalism etc streetcare@southglos.gov.uk 01454 868009 Environment/trading standards 01454 868001
Police www.avonandsomersetpolice.uk General enquiries: 101 Emergency: 999 Fire www.avonfire.gov.uk General enquiries: 0117 926 2061 Emergency: 999 Filton Town Council More information on Pages 16/17 01454 866 698 NHS Direct 0845 46 47
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Local advertising in filtonvoice works Many thanks to everyone who has offered such positive feedback about your monthly magazine. And it is YOUR magazine ... a place to find out things about our community and have your say. For businesses, it’s a great - and affordable - chance to get your message out to 12,000+ people locally.
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I have used FiltonVoice from the very first issue to advertise our FACS (Friends of Abbeywood Community School) events. At our car boot sale on 19th May we asked people coming through the door how they had heard of the event and the vast majority said it was because they’d seen it in FiltonVoice. They also commented on what a great magazine it is. I shall continue using the magazine to advertise our fundraising events. Many thanks. Jeanne Clements (FACS)
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Recently I had a problem with my double glazed front door. The lock had jammed, and I was unable to open it. I contacted a local locksmith and was told that it would be impossible to repair the lock, and the only solution would be a new door, costing in the region of £600 – 700, and would take at least a week as the door would have to be made. Not convinced that this was the only solution, I contacted DGR Windows, as advertised in your magazine. The gentleman visited the same day and was sure the problem could be fixed. He returned the following day with the necessary parts, and the problem was solved at a cost of £250. The work was carried out in a friendly and professional manner, and I cannot praise 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.
this company highly enough.” Name and address supplied
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We decided to advertise with Filtonvoice as we felt it was the most professional looking local magazine. I feel we have proved to be right and the costs have been well worth it, we now have bookings months in advance. Ashley & Sarah Porter Porters catering
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I decided to put an ad in filtonvoice and I was delighted to pick up work well into next year, and not just a one-off job but a number of jobs. Gardener Graham Cook
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At Dream Doors we have been so impressed with filtonvoice. We have had several enquiries in the short period we have been advertising. But in addition, we are happy and proud to be associated with such a high quality publication – it is well written, well designed and it is probably the best local magazine we have seen. The monthly distribution through letterboxes means that the customers we are trying to reach will read our message and the fact that the magazine is so good means we know people will not throw it away. Keep up the good work! Loretta, Dream Doors
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My computer seemed to be on its last legs but I went to Graham at Goto IT on Filton Avenue and now it’s as good as new - better in fact! BC, Filton Park Please support local firms who advertise and when you do, please mention filtonvoice 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.
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January, 2013
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Independents
Independents biggest ‘party’ after pair leave Conservatives 4 5 4
If we are ever to achieve positive change during the remainder of our term we believe that party politics must be put to one side. Cllrs Rikki Teml and Kieran Hyde
Independents are now the biggest ‘party’ in Filton Town Council after two councillors said they were standing down from the Conservatives. Cllrs Rikki Teml and Kieran Hyde told a meeting of the council that “if we are ever to achieve positive change during the remainder of our term, we believe that party politics must be put to one side”. They also said that “(political) agendas” had been dominating proceedings of the council. The change means the make-up of the council is now Independent (six), Labour (five) and Conservative (two). Their statement said: “It is so important that when representing Filton Town Council that your judgement is not clouded by political agendas. “Over recent months we have felt that there has been a marked change in thought strategy within this council resulting in agendas taking precedence over working for the good of the residents in Filton. “If we are ever to achieve positive change during the remainder of our term we believe that party politics must be put to one side. This will ensure decisions are made solely on merit and for the benefit of the community. “With this in mind and to re-enforce our continued commitment to the people of Filton, Cllr Hyde and I hearby inform you that with immediate effect we have stood down from the Conservative Party. “We look forward to working
with this council over the coming months as independent councillors and hope we will continue to have the valued support we have received from residents to date.” Conservative spokesman Mark Merchant said: “The Conservative Party will continue to work for the people of Filton. Kieran Hyde and Rikki Teml are both hard working councillors and well-regarded. We wish them well in the future. “The Conservative Party will continue to champion the needs and concerns of Filton as it always has done. “ The announcement follows the decision of Cllr Mel Drewitt last month who said she was now ‘Independent Labour’ after accusing the local branch of a lack of transparency. Branch chairman Brian Mead has indicated Ms Drewitt cannot stand down from the local branch unless she leaves the party altogether. In last month’s Filtonvoice she said: “I support the Labour party and all that it represents however due to recent events I feel some councillors are not as supportive to the residents that elected us. Therefore I will be standing as an Independent Labour councillor.” Cllr Bll Moore, who was critical of the local branch earlier in the year, has told Filtonvoice he is no longer a member of the Labour Party. Cllrs Brian Freeguard (a former Conservative district and town councillor) and Cllr Ken Brock are already independents.
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Labour
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Conservative
Rise of the independents. How Filton’s political make-up has changed since the election in 2011 Independent
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Jan, 2013
Independent
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January, 2013
Filton Airfield Closure
It has been Filton’s greatest landmark for decades, but finally, on December 21, the airfield stood silent. Campaigners have been arguing that the closure - along with the prospect of major house building - will spell disaster for the local economy. Owners BAE Systems have argued that there is no business case for the airfield. In the next six pages, we hear both sides of the argument and we also have pictures from a new book which traces the history of the airfield
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fter more than 100 years of aircraft heritage, a huge manufacturing role in two world wars, the devastation of German bombing in 1940, the meeting of minds which enabled the iconic Concorde to be built, the sheer scale of the Airbus A380 and the site of employment for tens of thousands of local people … Filton airfield closed quietly, a small plane taking off, never to return. More than 8,000 feet of runway lay silent, leaving Filton people only with memories of magnificent men in their flying machines, testing planes and piloting all manner of aircraft. It was especially sombre for campaigners who have fought to keep Filton’s greatest landmark open, and a group of councillors … dressed as if for a funeral … laid a wreath on the perimeter fence. And on the day of closure, it was announced that housing on the site is ever more likely with the Bristol Post reporting the sale of the site by owners BAE to property firm Bridgehouse Capital Limited, – reportedly for £120 million. BAE have repeatedly said there was no business case to
keep the runway open, and that is has been running at a loss, but campaigners have pointed to profits made in 2010 and 2011. The sale means that roughly nearly 70 years since the village of Charlton was demolished to make way for the extension of the runway, houses are likely to return to the site … but in huge numbers. It has also been revealed that Bristol mayor George Ferguson wants an independent report to explore the viability of the airfield long-term and a letter has been written by UKIP councillor Ben Walker, on behalf of campaigners, to transport minister Simon Burns, urging a re-think. Campaigners are hoping that, without planning permission having been granted, there may still be time to persuade South Gloucestershire Council to have a re-think. But one prominent campaigner and parish councillor Martin Farmer told filtonvoice that he feared the bulldozers may begin preparation work on the site immediately, rendering the runway no longer viable. He said: “I really think they might be callous enough to bring in the bulldozers right away. South Glooucestershire have
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Filton Airfield Closure
And then, silence ...
Filton councillors Adam Monk and Darryl Collins on the day of the closure. Below, Bill Bowerey rolled over here – the land has value because they have bent over backwards (to designate the site for development). If they had retained it as an airfield, it would have been viable.” South Gloucestershire Council has a strategic plan to build 2,500 homes on the site, with part of the land earmarked for employment. Local Labour politicians, including Filton councillors Adam Monk, Darryl Collins and Ian Scott – supported by campaigners including Filton Conservative councillor Doug Daniels – gathered at the airfield where Bill Bowery, a works convenor at the site for 16 years, spoke of his sadness. He said: “We are saying goodbye to a vibrant future. Where else would you find a runway of this size.” He said he was fearful that future employers would have no particular reason to come to Filton any more. As he placed the wreath, he also spoke movingly of the
thousands of people who had worked on aircraft projects over the years. Mr Monk said: “In 1940 German bombs failed to close the airfield but today developers and short-sighted Tory and Lib Dem councillors have succeeded where they failed. “They have endangered thousands of high tech jobs in the process.” BAE recently reiterated its support for a new aviation heritage museum on the airfield,
for which it has donated a site, £2 million of funding and £400,000 of professional help. It also confirmed that the air ambulance and police helicopters based at Filton will continue to be able to fly from the site. The UKIP letter to Simon Burns talks says that the closure is a decision of ‘national significance’, affecting jobs. Mr Burns has been urged to look again at the closure, especially in light of the UK’s need for greater air capacity.
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Extracts from the letter to transport minister Simon Burns
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We write, in support of Save Filton Airfield (SFA), on a matter of national importance concerning aviation capacity and the health of the UK Aerospace industry. We would like you to consider, in the context of the Government’s overall transport and industrial development strategy, the implications of closing and building over Filton Airfield, Filton Airfield offers as an immediate solution to the current airfield capacity problem and its irretrievable destruction will be seen as a monumental error sooner than some may think, for example, when the House of Commons Transport Committee UK Aviation Strategy Inquiry publishes its preliminary report. Despite all claims to the contrary, Filton Airfield can be profitable, as shown by its accounts for 2010 and 2011. These years show a £1.3M and £500K profit, respectively, even though most businesses that previously operated from the airfield had been pushed out and the operating hours had been significantly reduced. Airports are catalysts for attracting many types of businesses into the surrounding area, thereby providing prosperity well beyond the airfield boundary. It is within the power of local and national government to refuse planning permission for the re-development of Filton Airfield, without which BAE would not be able to sell it for housing at a vast profit. In that event, BAE would almost certainly be more receptive to an offer from another operator.” William Dartmouth MEP, Councillor Ben Walker; Robert Hindle, Chairman “Save Filton Airfield Campaign”; and Public Meeting Attendees, Elm Park Community Centre, 02/11/12
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January, 2013
Filton Airfield Closure “They want to dump a parking lot on paradise”
Here, airfield campaigner, local councillor and aerospace worker Dave Tiley reflects on what closure will mean for Filton and the wider area And so the battle is lost, after eighteen months being part of the Save Filton Airfield Group, I was here on the last day wondering if we’ve lost the war too. Ironic to use terms like ‘war’ when our forebears fought and died here on this Airfield and the A38 not just fighting for Filton, but Great Britain and the whole of Europe for our very liberty. I often wonder what our brave, selfless heroes of the past here would make of our local council signing it all off at the stroke of a pen to build homes for those who can’t afford them on this very land they died on. It breaks my heart, and all at SGC know that, as they witnessed my emotional plea for Filton and its manufacturing future when I spoke at their last meeting on the subject. I had the privileged but unenviable task of following Sir George White as a speaker there, Sir George spoke so eloquently of Filton’s great historic past and why it should have a future that I was absolutely choked to speak after him. As I looked into the eyes of the SGC Tory and Liberal Democrat councillors voting unanimously for closure I realised I was speaking to people you just can’t reach. What can truly motivate councillors who wish to dump a parking lot on paradise? Keeping their seats and places in the party by doing as their whip and MPs instruct
them? Or keeping houses from being built in their own rural backwaters, dumping them on gridlocked Filton and Patchway instead? How can every single one of them to a man and woman all be of the same sheeplike mind? What price individuality? What price the courage of their own convictions? Filton is in my blood, my heart, my soul, I’ve followed my father and two grandfathers in working here, as have so many. I even met my wife working here. As a boy I would watch Concorde fly across from my Monks Park School class window, I never dreamed I would get to fly on this greatest of our country’s technological marvels, but a chance win gave me that most cherished of prizes and a day I’ll never forget. But it’s not just personal
nostalgia for me or so many other campaigners. My interest is in a manufacturing future. The cluster of national iconic aerospace companies here have underpinned the regions economy for decades and longer, as the site has been here over 100 years. It’s a national asset as well as a local treasure, and has given mass employment to tens of thousands of Bristolians with that, attracting people and investment here, along with the spin-off back-up companies, research centres and colleges that have come here in support of and on the back of Filton. I want the same opportunities for today’s young people, tomorrow’s skilled men and women, I want them to have a decent future to look forward to, with a good wage and a job for the long term. Why are we risking that here? This is a regional jewel in the crown, anywhere else would fight tooth and nail to keep it and grow it, knowing the value it brings to the local economy, but no, ‘we do things differently here’ SGC tell us. I now live in hope that manufacturing will remain for the long term despite SGC’s failings, but I wonder how we can compete for future work packages of any subsequent scale as the houses move in around us with no room for expansion and
we lose the economic viability of having the wingsets and parts fly in and out, unlike our rivals who maintain their airfields and infrastructures for some of the most lucrative work in the world. Where are the people of vision fighting our corner, where are the Government in all of this, talking up manufacturing while ignoring our argument, Vince Cable was personally handed the full story and our version of events we view as truly independent facts. Vince Cable’s view? You tell me, as he and Whitehall have cocked a deaf ‘un to this story, despite even the Times business pages running and supporting our story after we marched here for the airfield last year. There are people who are interested, but they have been knocking on BAE’s closed door, and there are people of vision here. Further information and alternatives can be found at the Save Filton Airfield website www.savefiltonairfield.org where the campaign will go on until the last nail goes in the coffin. We need a white knight or a significant donor for a judicial review now, but carry on we must, in the hope that someone somewhere will stop this atrocity before it’s too late and we all look back in regret at what was thrown away here for Filton, Bristol, the South West and the UK.
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Filton Airfield Closure Top Tory: “We’re planning for a positive future”
By Cllr Brian Allinson Conservative Lead Member for Planning, Transportation and Strategic Environment Committee, South Glos Like many others, I feel a sense of personal loss at BAE Systems’ closure of Filton Airfield and indeed reflect on my own connections with the field and its flight operations staff who assisted me during the period that I was setting up the Police Air Operations Unit still located on the site today. All of us, including every political colour and none, want to see a strong and world-beating aerospace sector - it’s just that we disagree about how we get there. On the one side you have those who believe sincerely that you need a working runway in order to have a thriving aerospace sector (you also have Labour councillors determined to play politics with this issue). But there are others, including the major aerospace companies themselves, who say they don’t need the runway and indeed some of them haven’t used it for many years. Airbus,
Rolls-Royce, GKN, etc all responded to the council as part of the engagement exercise. These same companies go on to say that redevelopment actually offers an opportunity to strengthen the aerospace sector and give it a future as great as its past. And we made the decision, as a council, to work with these employers, as well as the wider community, to ensure that 50 hectares (roughly a third) of the site is safeguarded to strengthen the existing advanced engineering and aerospace centre of excellence.
Indeed, this now forms the heart of the Filton Enterprise Area, which has a potential job growth of between 7000 - 12,000 jobs to 2026. Not only that, but we also want to ensure that any redevelopment levers in the investment needed to reopen the Henbury railway line to passenger services and extend the North Fringe to Hengrove rapid transit scheme. It’s always important to remember that a decision to close a privately-owned airfield is fundamentally a decision for the airfield’s owner – which in
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Filton’s case, is BAE Systems. The alternative course of action available to the council would have been to leave the planning designation of the airfield unchanged, thereby triggering the immediate submission of a planning application by BAE. Although it’s fair to assume that the council would have refused permission, BAE would simply have appealed with the final decision resting with the government’s independent Planning Inspectorate, rather than locally with the council. The Planning Inspectorate would then have carried out the same evidence-gathering exercise as council planners did, namely to consult widely, including asking the major aerospace companies themselves whether the airfield was important to them. The same answer would have come back – no. The Planning Inspectorate would in all likelihood have concluded that this was a large brownfield site in the middle of an existing urban area whose redevelopment would not only meet the local need for additional housing, but also strengthen rather than harm the aerospace sector. To repeat - the council’s decision has never been whether to close the airfield or not (that’s BAE’s decision), but rather whether the council plans positively for the future or to lose control of the issue, which really would have risked the future of our prized local aerospace industry.
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Filton Airfield Closure “A decision that will haunt us all” Save Filton Airfield campaigner Martin Farmer says industry will struggle to thrive with the closure of the airfield
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s I stood at the end of Filton Airfield on that emotional day of 21st December, although the sun was low and bright in the sky, I could clearly see my personal “airfield” ghosts of the past; an apprentice walking in all winds and weathers across the runway on his way to work; rugby being played on the Filton Combination Ground, briefly disturbed by a Harrier doing flight trials on a Saturday afternoon. These ghosts are from decades ago and being a long serving Bristol Aerospace worker, the airfield is a key part of my personal make up. I am sad for the past but more importantly angry that the airfield will not be used to its full potential, but in the cold light of day who is responsible? Is it really BAE Systems, a global defence company, which doesn’t run airfields (although it managed to run Filton at a profit!) and now has little connection with Bristol? There is a declining defence market in the UK and any defence company would welcome the £120m that BAE Systems will get for turning the airfield into a housing estate. I believe BAE Systems was astute enough to take advantage of a (for them) perfect situation; Firstly, the Conservatives and LibDems on South Gloucestershire Council are
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terrified at the backlash they will receive regarding houses built on Greenbelt. They have offered up the airfield for development and would have us believe that houses will be built on the airfield instead of green fields. This ploy might have worked in the short term but already it has clearly backfired; South Gloucestershire will now lose at least 508 acres of Greenbelt, only 5 other councils in the country will lose more. Secondly, there is lack of knowledge amongst local politicians about what we do in Filton. The regular headlines about Airbus winning another X billion pound order, doesn’t mean that aircraft and engines
will be built in Bristol. Far from it; Airbus doesn’t make very much in Bristol and engines for Airbus aircraft are manufactured in other parts of the world. Investments in new aircraft and engine factories are taking place, but not in Filton. A ghost looking into the future will see the runway infrastructure dismantled almost immediately meaning that it will be difficult to restart the airfield. The remaining aerospace industry will have to survive within a housing estate and in an environment where local Conservative and LibDem politicians are focussed on securing rural votes at the 2015 elections and not promoting a long term thriving aerospace industry. The responsibility for the closure of the airfield lies right at the door of Conservative and LibDem Councillors. Their short-sighted decisions will haunt every one of us. Martin Farmer is a Labour Councillor on Oldland Parish Council, South Gloucestershire. He has worked in aerospace at Filton for over 30 years.
January, 2013
1 A Bulldog company demonstrator around 1929. (Courtesy of Bob Hercock of the Rolls-Royce Heritage Trust) 2 A Boxkite with wing extensions on the flying ground on Fairlawn Avenue, next to Filton Works, in about 1911. The gentleman with the long coat and cap is thought to be Sir George White, founder of the British & Colonial Aeroplane Company.’ (Courtesy of Duncan Greenman of Bristol Archive ) 3 The airfield at around the same time as the previous photograph. (Courtesy of Bob Hercock of the RollsRoyce Heritage Trust) 4 A batch of USAF F-111F fighters from Lakenheath undergoing maintenance in the AAH West Bay. (Courtesy of Duncan Greenman via Rolls-Royce Heritage) 5 Britannia G-ANBA prepares for a flight from Filton to Khartoum and Johannesburg for tropical trials on 12 March 1955. From left to right: Cyril Uwins (Managing Director, Aircraft Division), Sir Reginald Vernon Smith (Bristol Joint Managing Director), Dr. Archibald Russell (Chief Designer) and Sir David Eccles (Minister of Education). (From the Author’s Collection) 6 ‘Hurricanes of 501 Squadron lined up at Filton in 1938.’ (Courtesy of the 501 Squadron Association)
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A new book has been published about the history of Filton Airfield. In Filton Airfield Through Time, Andrew Appleton uses old and new photographs to show us the intriguing past of Filton Airfield, a key site in British aviation history. He takes us from the manufacture of military aircraft during the First and Second World Wars to the present day and the closure of the airfield by BAE Systems. The book can be loaned from Filton Library and is available for sale there at ÂŁ14.99.
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We need action before there’s a bad accident A group of mums from Filton say children are being put at risk at the pedestrian crossing on Filton Avenue at the junction with Conygre Road. There is a zebra crossing at the spot but residents say drivers speed along the long, straight stretch of the avenue and often struggle to stop when they reach the crossing. Recent improvements to the crossing included better markings and a raised road surface but residents say traffic lights are needed. Leanne Field-Mannings , whose son attends nearby Filton Hill Primary, said she had seen cars screech to a halt as people were crossing. She said: “It’s been a problem here for a very long time - I’ve been walking children to school for 10 years and we’ve had sveral near misses. “When were were nearly hit by a moped it was a matter of inches. We are asking for lights to be installed as it is the main route to a primary school. “This is the second near miss we have had at this crossing since the (raised) table has been installed. “The excuse they gave us (for not installing lights) was that it was too straight a piece of road and visibility was fine.” Mum Anna Curry said: “My daughter had a near miss when a car only just stopped in time. “People drive straight over the crossing, especially mopeds.”
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“Many use it as a short cut between he A38 and the A4174 (Ring Road). Because of the straightness of the road it will lure many into thinking they can go fast. The speed humps do nothing to slow anyone down as many just treat them as a ramp to launch themselves towards oncoming traffic.” Pete “I lived by that crossing for 24 years and we had near misses and fatalities. When my children were small I was actually in the middle of the crossing with a child on each side and a BSM instructor drove straight in front of us - luckily I had both children by the hand! We fought for lights for all those years. I thought they were supposed to be putting lights on it when they did the revamp?” Alison “I think many people have forgotten how to use a Zebra Crossing. I’ve seen many drivers drive completely oblivious to it, but I usually try to wait for traffic to stop before crossing just in case.” Sue
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Standing up for rights of the elderly Perhaps lesser known to many elderly persons is the National Pensioners’ Convention based in London. The Convention as distinct from widely known organisations representing elderly persons campaigns vigorously to bring attention of Government members to the needs of the elderly and to improve the way of life. The Western Region which represents our area meets regularly at either Bristol or Cheltenham. A recent meeting held at the Filton Community
Centre followed by a later one at Cheltenham received contributions and concerns from several elderly persons residing in the Western area. There are concerns regarding the increasing costs of permanent care for the elderly in the private sector and their effective monitoring. Also the possibility of adjustment to provision of bus passes in the light of council affordability and a need to reduce outgoing costs. Douglas Daniels, Press Officer, NPC Western Region
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Watch scheme needs more help
Last month Filton Voice printed an article about the history of Filton Park Neighbourhood Watch from its inception 25 years ago. This month, I want to bring the story right up to date. Technology has helped reduce the need for the number of meetings, as information concerning local crime and other incidents of relevance is now passed quickly from the police to a number of contacts within the Filton Park area using a system called ‘Ringmaster’. Messages are received by phone or email, and it is the contact’s job to ensure that important information is then passed to houses in their immediate area. This system only works if there are enough contacts to cover all the houses in the neighbourhood watch area and if the message is then passed from house to house. At the moment, certain areas of Filton Park are without a contact, and there are other areas where the information is not being passed on. It is vital to all the residents of Filton Park that the Watch continues. Therefore, if you feel you can fulfil the role of a contact and receive and then pass on messages, please either contact me through the Editor of Filton Voice or come along to one of the meetings held at Filton Park Pre-School at 8pm on the first Monday in January, April, July and October (not including Bank Holidays). Wilson McKelvie
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School news
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January, 2013
Abbeywood Community School
Abbeywood head Dave Baker has said the Ofsted monitoring visit in November was “good news” with good progress having been made since May. He told parents: “Ofsted found good progress in all the areas identified as needing improvement in the inspection a year ago this week; the inspection team also felt that there had been good progress since the monitoring visit in May. “Clearly this is very good news for everyone involved with Abbeywood Community School and shows that the school is moving in the right direction. “There is still work to do on the journey of improvement but the outcomes of the monitoring visit are a good milestone for the school and offer validation for the changes introduced in recent months. “We would like to thank parents for the support they have given us in establishing new
expectations and helping prepare the way for better outcomes for your children.” l Y10 and Y11 students following the GCSE and BTEC Drama courses performed extracts from a number of plays to audiences of family, friends and fellow students. The Performance Evening kicked off with the Y10 Drama
group performing extracts from the John Godber plays “Bouncers”, “Teechers” and “Shakers”. The students have been using Godber’s work as examples of non-naturalistic acting and Physical Theatre and worked in small groups to present edited extracts. The BTEC students were assessed as part of their Acting Skills and Techniques Unit.
Then it was the turn of the Y11 students, who performed a workshop performances of “Jason and the Argonauts”, written by Kerry Frampton and Mal Smith. This is a comical, energetic and very physical re-working of the Greek myth and the performance was thoroughly enjoyed by performers and audience alike.
Orchard School Bristol
A group of lucky Gifted and Talented students were invited to UWE to be introduced to some robots at UWE’s world class Robotics Laboratory. The students were shown around the facility by the highly informative and enthusiastic scientists who are working on the project and were able to interact with the robots who mirrored human movements. On the same day David Willetts, Minister of State for
Universities and Science visited UWE as part of the Cabinet’s visit to Bristol.
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January, 2013
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School news
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Scholarships, Bursaries and Old Colstonian Awards available
Next steps to entry Year 7 Taster Days January 21 – March 1
Sixth Form Taster Days On a day of your choice
Exams for Year 7 entry Saturday January 12 (9am -12.30pm) All candidates and their parents will be invited for interview during the following week
Early Years Events
St Teresa’s Primary
Head teacher Amanda Pritchard has expressed her delight after the school was judged favourably in two inspections. She said: “We are delighted to inform parents that in our recent Section 48 RE Inspection which followed our OFSTED inspection we were judged as an ‘Outstanding Catholic Primary School’. This is a fantastic achievement and I’d like to thank parents on behalf of myself, the Governors and staff for their part in making this a reality! The inspection judges the Catholicity of the school and covers many aspects of school life. “We have been given permission by the Diocese of Clifton to release some quotes: ‘The Catholic life of the school is integral to all aspects of its development and is at the heart of its entire endeavour.’… ‘The ethos of the school is characterised by trust and a sense of belonging, encouraging pupils to develop a sense of selfworth and to respond to the high expectations set for them.’ … ‘The school focuses on developing language and understanding so that pupils are empowered to think deeply about their beliefs and articulate them, expressing the impact they have on their lives and world view.’… ‘Pupils pray with confidence and a facility borne of a culture which promotes prayer as an activity as natural and as necessary as breathing.’ “We are very proud of this outcome and will continue on our
journey to becoming even more outstanding! In St Teresa’s Ofsted inspection in the Autumn, the school was judged to be ‘good’ overall with some areas ‘outstanding’. Among the conclusions were: l Most pupils make good progress from their starting points and leave with attainment that is significantly above the national average. l Pupils’ progress and attainment in reading are a particular strength. l The outstanding behaviour and attitudes of pupils make a highly positive contribution to their learning. l The headteacher’s clear vision for the school is widely shared and embraced by all staff. The inspectors said St Teresa’s could improve in some areas, and noted: l Progress is not outstanding overall because a few pupils do not always make consistently good progress. l In lessons, teachers do not always check the progress of all pupils and marking does not consistently tell pupils the next steps in their learning or give them time to respond. l Last month the whole school was treated to a wonderful performance by Y3 and Y4. Y3 welcomed the coming of Jesus by singing a song from Cameroon accompanied by some fantastic African drumming, pictured, and Y4 treated us to some Christmas carols played on the steel pans.
Friday January 18 Open Morning including Art and Craft fun in Nursery and Reception
Friday February 8 Art and Craft fun in Nursery and Reception
Friday March 8 Spring into Action – fun games in Nursery and Reception
Saturday April 27 Teddy Bears Picnic in Nursery and Reception
Friday May 3 Open Morning
All Early Years events 9.30 -11.30am
Junior Entrance Assessments Saturday January 26 (9am -12.15pm) For further information contact Denise Sollis (Tel 0117 965 5207) denisesollis@colstons.bristol.sch.uk Colston’s School, Stapleton, Bristol BS16 1BJ
www.colstons.bristol.sch.uk Registered Charity No 1079552
Colston’s - a school for the family
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Letters and opinions 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.
£10 prize Send your letters to the addresses (email or normal mail) opposite and the best one will receive £10 each month. Editor’s decision is final. Letters must not be anonymous and an address supplied (address will not be published if requested)
Remember the village knocked down for airfield
I feel I must write to you as you keep mentioning Filton Airfield which is now closing down. I see you printed a picture of the airfield but there was once a village in the middle of that runway. I was the fourth generation to be born at Charlton Village, my great grandfather built Rose Cottage in 1834 and my dad was brought up there. My mum lived in the council houses on Catbrain Lane and met my dad when they started school. They got married in 1940 and lived with his mum at Rose Cottage. In 1946, a dreadful day, the bulldozers moved in and flattened the whole village. I know a few programmes have been made about Charlton and my mum and dad were both on there. I know June Keating has written books on Charlton and I have provided her with lots of photos. My dad was a keen photographer and the day before they left he went round the village taking photographs, which I still possess. We never had any electricity in the village, and no running water but there were two wells in the village and we had one of them. There were no bathrooms. We had to move to a new council house on Patchway estate with all mod cons but my mum hated it. My grandmother went to live with her daughter at Southmead
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January, 2013
An Airbus A380 at Filton in November, the last arrival of the iconic plane before this month’s closure. Picture courtesy of www.savebristolairfield.org
Road. We were promised a new village by the MoD but it never happened. The runway was built for the Brabazon which never went into service. The only good thing to come out of it was when Concorde used it. I hope when they put the facts of Filton Airfield into a museum, they remind people a village once stood there. Mrs M Richmond (nee Dangerfield)
Welsh spelling
I was interested to read the article on page 40 of December’s edition about Filton Garden Club’s enjoyable visit to the National Botanic Garden of Wales, I keep meaning to swing by there one day when going to north Wales from here. However I wondered what the heck “CRUESCO” means?! My first guess was perhaps Croatian, Romanian & Ukranian
Education, Scientific and Cultural Organisation? But it seems to be equated with the word “Welcome” in which case I suspect it was meant to be “CROESO”? I have it on the reliable authority of a native Welsh speaker that this is the Welsh word for “Welcome”. On the subject of public participation at meetings, Cllr Drewitt seems to have a point, how can you submit questions 7 days in advance if papers are not available before then?! On your Facebook page, there’s been comment about risk to dogs of not capping the goalpost holes when not in use. Anybody know whether the council is going to do something or are we waiting for a dog to actually bust a leg to prove the risk is real? Huw Thomas
I need a move
My New Year Resolution for 2013:. Move out of Filton
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Letters and opinions before all the stupid housing developments are finished and we are grid-locked in our homes. I was once proud to live and work here - not any more! Fran Read
Cash scrutiny
In principle I would be happy to contribute an extra 7p per week for youth services. I am heavily involved in fundraising for Charborough Road school and fully understand the funding requirements of essential youth services. My concern though is how the rest of this precept is made up. What is it spent on and have the council really done their best to make sure that it is being used efficiently? There is no doubt that funding should be made available for youth services but is the funding we already provide as tax payers used effectively? I’m not sure and that is why I have reservations about this potential increase. I’d really like some transparency from the council on this issue and see some evidence that spending is really being scrutinised and that they money they have is spent with care. Jules Trucks
Heritage gone
Re the airfield closure, it’s really a shame for the town’s heritage. My family, in a master stroke of timing, moved from rural Somerset right next to an aircraft factory...in 1939. My mum who was nine then made sure we grew up with tales of the Filton home front and of the raids on Filton. My
grandfather, who was the first Shield Rd school caretaker, had to open up for bombed out families (as you can see I am decended from local aristocracy!) Also we were told of the various squadrons who defended the town, one of which had many Poles and of the fraternisation between the residents of Gayner Rd and the balloon barrage that was based on the Millennium Green. (That’s where the ATC huts came from!) From my own time, who can remember the Concorde engines on the test beds blocking out lessons or the USAF F111 from Upper Heyford tearing up the Filton High School field in the 70s on approach to the strip. (BTW was FHS the only one in the country to run an Aviation Studies course)? We have to look positively to the future now, we have no choice. However as an unashamed aviation buff I would love to see a Filton Aviation Heritage museum in addition to the larger one proposed along the lines of the Frenchay one, that is incidentally run by a wonderful man himself a retired Filton aviation engineer who headed up the Bristol 188 project in the 60’s. Now THAT was one one shiny aeroplane!! Sean Walsh
when I was 16 and had many nights helping out cleaning some of the planes ready for the next morning We had some great laughs. It’s a shame as that’s what Filton is know for !!! What’s happening to our history? Yes we do need more housing but if this land (airfield) is for housing, where are these people going to work or send there children to pre-school or school? Just a thought. Elizabeth Jane Clark
Seek re-election!
Re Tory councillors standing as Independents, if they had any respect for democracy, Cllrs Rikki Teml and Kieran Hyde would do the honourable thing, stand down and seek re-election. Failure to do so would show the highest contempt in which they hold the democratic process. Felix l The last 12 months have shown
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a significant and obvious decline in the general “well being” of the town, with its rapid decline and degeneration now becoming more obvious and accelerated than ever. Unfortunately because of the constant infighting and bickering the town has now become overlooked financially and in priority with no clear strategic direction or control. Do us all a favour, sort yourselves out…but don’t take too long. Uribebtmyspoon l Felix, we were still elected to represent Filton and will continue to do so until the end of our term. Resigning would potentially trigger a bi-election and cost the tax payers further money. We will still represent all the people of Filton, if you have any further concerns then please email us and we will happily meet with you. Cllr Rikki Teml
l I saw the lights on the runway today and it made me sad that we won’t be seeing them again. I will miss that aircraft noise and watching them fly in and out of Filton from my window. Jules Trucks l I used to work at the BAC
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Nicky given top award for her work with first aid charity St John Ambulance volunteer Nicky Connolly from Filton has been honoured for her work with the first aid charity with an investiture into the Order of St John. Her dedication was marked at a prestigious ceremony on December 13 in the Order’s historic 12th century Priory Church in London’s Clerkenwell. By being selected to become a member of the Order of St John, Nicky, who is currently the Assistant Commissioner for the area’s Badger movement for young members aged five to 10, has been recognised for outstanding service to its key foundations – one of which is St John Ambulance, the nation’s leading first aid charity. The Order of St John is a Royal Order of Chivalry and Her Majesty the Queen, its Sovereign Head, approves each recipient. St John Ambulance believes volunteers such as Nicky are fundamental in helping the charity to fulfil its charitable aims. Up to 140,000 people every year could be given a chance to live if more people were equipped with basic first aid skills. Nicky, 38, who lives in Wades Road and works as a Resuscitation Training Officer for North Bristol NHS Trust, joined the charity 28 years ago as a Cadet member. She has worked her way up through the volunteer ranks to her current position. As well as teaching and inspiring the next generation of first aiders across South Gloucestershire and Bristol, she is also a trained first aider who has used her skills many times to help others, including during a crash on the M5 when she went to the aid of an injured motorist.
Spreading the message about the importance of first aid has become a family affair for Nicky, Her fiancé Darren Gregory, a County Staff Officer for Cadets, and her nine-year-old daughter Lauren Jay, who is currently the Avon Deputy Badger of the Year, attended the ceremony with her. Nicky was presented with the Order’s insignia by Rodney Green, the Prior (Chairman) of the Priory of England and the Islands (part of the Order of St John). Nicky said: “I am honoured to have been admitted to the Order of St John and humbled that my service has been recognised in this way. “My work as a volunteer for St John Ambulance has allowed me to put my first aid knowledge into practice and also train the next generation of first aiders so they can be the difference between a life lost and a life saved.” The Prior, Rodney Green, said: “Nicky has been invited to join the Order of St John in recognition of the contribution she has made to her community. “She has shown true commitment to helping St John Ambulance’s life saving work.2 Around a hundred people from communities across the country are invested on each occasion, the majority of whom volunteer for St John Ambulance. The investiture ceremony takes place three times a year. The Order of St John is one of the world’s longest established charities and traces its origins back 900 years to the Knights Hospitaller and the first Hospital of St John in Jerusalem in 1078. Its international history is showcased in the Museum of the Order of St John in Clerkenwell, London.
‘My work as a volunteer for St John Ambulance has allowed me to put my first aid knowledge into practice and also train the next generation of first aiders so they can be the difference between a life lost and a life saved.’ - Nicky Connolly
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Petcare with Michael Parry of Vets4Pets in Filton
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January, 2013
For a limited period only.
Are you clued up on pet cancer?
Michael, Vet at Vets4Pets Filton, is concerned. He said: “Few pet owners are aware that almost all pets will get a tumour in their lifetime, which if left unchecked could be life threatening! “Often many pet owners decide to ‘wait and see if the lump goes away’ however every lump has the potential to be a malignant cancer and should be checked by your vet for peace of mind.” What is cancer? Cancer is the common name given to all forms of nasty tumours, which are a mass of cells that are growing out of control. Not all tumours are visible on the skin and there are 2 main types: benign and malignant. Benign tumours grow slowly, never spread and are not usually life threatening,
whereas malignant tumours multiply aggressively and destroy surrounding tissue and other body parts, making them life threatening.. Unfortunately there are little known reasons for the causes of pet cancer. What should you do if you find a lump on your pet? Not all lumps turn out to be tumours but just as in people, early detection is critical and it’s important that the lump is quickly examined by your vet.
Call: 0117 969 8400 or visit vets4pets.com Vets4Pets Filton Shield Retail Centre, Gloucester Road, Filton, BS34 7BQ Opening times 8:30am-7pm Mon-Fri, 9am-4pm Sat
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• 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. Left, Kelly Pillinger from the town council hands the hose to Bristol Zoo staff. Right, gorillas Salome & Komale waiting for their new arrival! Residents may have spotted that we have removed the fire hose from our 25m pool side, due to wear & tear. The hose would have been classed as waste material, however the staff at the Leisure Centre thought of different ways it could be recycled and the idea of donating the hose
to Bristol Zoo was a clear winner. The hose will be used as swings and perches, for extra fun at play time for the animals. The fundraiser for Bristol Zoo, Suzanne Robinson, said “It will most definitely be put to good use and appreciated by the animals and keepers alike.”
Filton Town Council meetings open to public January
22nd, 7pm Planning meeting Small Meeting Room 29th, 7.30pm Full Council Meeting Pavilion.
February
12th, 7.30p.m Finance Committee Pavilion
19th, 7pm Planning Committee Small Meeting Room 26th, 7.30pm Full Council Pavilion
April
9th, 7.30p.m Finance Committee Pavilion
16th, 7pm Planning Committee 19th, 7pm Planning Committee Small Meeting Room Small Meeting Room 30th, 7.30p.m 26th, 7.30pm Full Council Full Council Pavilion Pavilion
For further information please contact: kelly.pillinger@filtontowncouncil.gov.uk Or call our Reception on: 01454 866686
March
12th, 7.30p.m Finance Committee Pavilion
Dates subject to ratification at January full council meeting
• Contact the town council office Tel: 01454 866 698; Leisure Centre Tel: 01454 866686; or our website www.filtontowncouncil.gov.uk The Community Garden project is now moving at high speed and we are delighted to have secured thousands of bulbs, courtesy of Richard Truscott at Almondsbury Garden Centre. We now need help with planting the bulbs. Please call Bill Moore on 07943 813 439 if you can help with this. We are please to say we have kick-started the New Year with a cheque from Rolls-Royce for £200. This follows donations totalling £2,000 from local businesses to be added to the £5,000 from the town council. If you are a business and wish to donate, please contact the town council offices (see this page) for details on how to pay. A meeting is being held on January 12th at Elm Park Pavilion to make further progress ... watch this space for more developments. Our picture shows the planned layout, with a woodland garden, picnic area and community garden ‘hub’ with planters and seating.
Filton Sports & Leisure Centre Events for your diary Boot Camp – Starting back Friday 4th January, 2013 Swimming Lessons - starting back Monday 7th January, 2013 Aqua Aerobics – Starting back on Tuesday 8th January, 2013 8.00pm – 9.00pm Circuit Training – Starting back on Wednesday 9th January, 6.00pm – 7.00pm
We are delighted with our newly designed pool area and refurbished changing rooms. We hope this will make coming to Filton Sports and Leisure Centre for a swim an even more enjoyable experience
Aqua Running - Starting back on 10th January 2013, 10.00am – 11.00pm “NEW” Swim Fit – Starting Tuesday 15th January 2013, 7.00pm-8.00pm Children’s Holiday Activities (Feb) RLSS Lifeguard Course – Monday 11th Feb 2013 – Sunday 18th Feb 2013 (School week 7) Rugby Six Nations February – March 2013. All match’s will be shown in the Ratepayers Arms, Bar. Raffle tickets on sale for a Rugby Shirt
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January, 2013
Call for crackdown deadline nears News Team 85 appeal for legion birthday on danger cyclists Tackling cycling The awarddangerous winning Stoke Gifford should of bethe made a top priority by Branch Royal British the new- which police covers and crime comLegion Filton - is missioner, aitsBishopston councilcelebrating 85th year with the lor hasof said. launch its “Team 85” - a major David fundCouncillor raising drive forWillingham the Royal has written to Sue Mountstevens, British Legion’s Poppy Appeal / Welfare Fund. urging her to ensure local police The branch is only seven crackdown on anti-social cycling, years thepavement. RBL such younger as ridingthan on the nationally which was founded in Councillor Willingham said: 1921. Theenjoys Stoke the Gifford Branch “Bristol accolade of covers Filton, being aBradley CyclingStoke, City and much Little Stoke and Stoke Gifford. has been done by the city council The group has been raising to encourage and promote cybranch record amounts for the cling. The vastinmajority of cyclists Poppy Appeal recent years. are 2010/11 sensible itand law-abiding. For raised £30,500, But in there is a small minority and 2011/12 it broke even that of cyclists behaviour is record withwhose £37,500. dangerous, Many of my Membersillegal. are pictured selling constituents find itParkway intimidating. poppies at Bristol “Thelast complaints Station autumn. I receive In 2010/11 it won the RBL about people cycling on the paveGloucestershire County Marling ment are often from vulnerable sections of the community.”
Complaints have been made about some cyclists riding on pavements He has now invited Ms Mountstevens to come to Bishopston and meet traders along Cup for most improved branch, the Gloucester Road to hear ther and 3rd place in the Williams views, before attending a local Cup for increasing its poppy Neighbourhood Forum. appeal total by 27.88%. At December’s Bishopston Branch Poppy Appeal Neighbourhood Forum, Organiser John Moloneypolice has set officeryear, David acomunity target forsupport the 2012/13 Said reported offiOctober cers held (running fromthat the 1st an enforcement day earlier in 2012 to 30th September 2013), the month on Gloucester Road
and Whiteladies Road, to tackle safety issues with cyclists. One person was stopped for for the branch to raise £40,000. cycling on the pavement, with This is a big challenge in these the majority stopped for cycling tough financial times. without lights. Those pulled over The Branch is planning were given the option to of help a cycling fundraising activities safety lesson with a reduced fine. boost its fundraising, including Ms Mountstevens has saidand a Band Concert in February there will beother a meeting in Januorganising fundraising ary to look cycling and issues in events and at activities this part of the city.
School places
Parents who haven’t already applied for their child’s first school place have a fortnight to send their choices to the city to council. attending other events do The deadline for applicafundraising. tionsThe is January 15keen and atocouncil branch is spokesperson said: “We urge develop its links with youth parents to applyincluding in plenty of time organisations, before the deadline uniformed groups. of 15 January New Chairmanand Hilary 2013 - allBranch the information Bloor said: “Stoke is Gifford RBL online application available on branch have adopted the logo www.bristol.gov.uk/schooladmisof Team85 to promote their sions.” branch which was formed in afIt comes just a few months 1928, the Cabinet goal of raising ter thewith council approved £40K in their 85th year.Strategy, This not the School Organisation only encompasses the collection allocating £31 million in 2012/13 during the Poppy fortnight, but to schemes aimed at increasing includes all fund raising activities the number of throughout theprimary year.” places available across the city.David Branch spokesman includes £2.4m for - the BellThis said: “The community improvements at Stour Bonavenpublic, the media, volunteers ture’s and £1.4m for Bishop Road and the many venues that we Primary, toare complete the creation work with very supportive of teaching facilities of more the Royal British Legionwithin and we existing are very school grateful foron that the and the support.” site adjoining the playing field in Beauchamp Road.
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advertise,contact contactRichard Emma onon 0117 07715on770448. Joni onon07887 Email:Email: emma@bishopstonvoice.co.uk ToToadvertise, 0777 908 5552121 0607,orEmma 0771 Got 577 news? 0448 Call or Wendy 0771561567. 577 0242. adverts@filtonvoice.co.uk
January, 2013
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Filton news in brief l St Andrew’s Players will be celebrating 30 years of performing pantomimes with a production of “Sleeping Beauty”. This traditional family panto will take place at St Andrew’s Church Hall. Filton on 13 – 16 February 2013, starting at 7.30pm. There is also a matinee performance on Saturday 16 February, starting at 2.30 pm. “Sleeping Beauty” promises to be full of all the usual fun and laughter you would expect from this type of show. There is a beautiful princess, handsome prince, nasty fairy, court jester and many more. Something for everyone... young, old, friends and family. You are invited to shake off those winter blues, have a good laugh and boo the baddies. Tickets are priced at £6 for adults and £3 for children. To book your seats, you can call the Box Office on 0845 1540950.
More information is available on www.sapfilton.co.uk As in previous years, a donation will be shared amongst two charities which this time round will be Riding for the Disabled and Epilepsy Bereaved. See advert on Page 12 l FACS (Friends of Abbeywood Community School) have been busy and the following events are organised for this year: l Quiz Night – Thursday 7 February 2013. Doors open at 7.00 pm, quiz starts promptly at 7.30 pm. £10 per team (max 6) in advance or £12 on the night. Licensed bar. Age 16+ only please. For advance tickets please email facs@ abbeywoodschool.com l Indoor As New Sale – Sunday 17 March 2013 l Singalong Night – March (date to be confirmed) l Car Boot Sale – Saturday 13 April 2013
l Ladies Fashion Show – Saturday 20 April 2013 l Car Boot Sale – Saturday 18 May 2013 l Car Boot Sale – Saturday 15 June 2013 l Car Boot Sale – Saturday 13 July 2013 l Car Boot Sale – Saturday 21 September 2013 l Race Night – October 2013 (date to be confirmed) l Indoor As New Sale – Sunday 13 October 2013 l Christmas Shopping Night – Friday 8 November 2013 For further information on any of the above please email facs@abbeywoodschool.com Follow FACS (Friends of Abbeywood Community School) on Facebook and join the group! https://www.facebook.com/#!/ groups/123912037645956/ l Following the announcement that BAE Systems has entered into a development partnership
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with Bridgehouse Capital, Great Western Air Ambulance Charity (GWAAC) would like to confirm that the compnay has restated its commitment to allow the charity to continue to operate from the site once the runway closes. A charity spokesperson said: “BAE Systems has said the role of the Great Western Air Ambulance at Filton, and the critical role it plays in supporting emergency services in the region, will be protected and that they will ensure that the Great Western Air Ambulance Service and the Police helicopters will continue to be able to fly from Filton following closure.” GWAAC relies entirely on the generosity of the people they we serve to continue operating. John Christensen, Chief Executive of GWAAC, said: “It is crucial that the public support our cause, especially as we are trying to raise an extra £250,000 to fund a new helicopter.”
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filtonvoice
T: 0777 555 0607 24 Filton local history
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January, 2013
Read all about it!
Ever wondered what stood on the spot now occupied by the shops and flats opposite Filton Church. This month, Jackie Sims and Peggie Allen of Filton Community History take a look at Filton’s Reading Room and Green Cafe Opposite Filton Church, on Station Road and next door to the old Methodist Chapel, in a grey stone building, the Gaynor Family had a room built from corrugated iron, known as the Reading Room. It housed a small library of books known as the Parish Library. In 1897 the books could be borrowed at a charge of one halfpenny a volume. It was also used by the Chapel for various functions, and from time to time for various parish meetings. In the autumn of 1904 Mr Baker, the then headmaster of Filton Church School, evacuated Standards I – VII to the Reading Room for 4 weeks when the ceiling of the main schoolroom became unsafe. The Reading Room was increasingly used as overflow for the school as Filton expanded with the opening of the aircraft factory and the number of children grew. The annual scholarships were held there and classes went to the Reading Room when medical examinations were held. From April 1925 instruction in domestic science for the senior girls was given there, until the new Charborough Road School opened in September 1927. In the years leading up to WWI, chairs and tables from the Reading Room were taken out to be used either in the Long Room at the Rectory or the Schoolroom
Taken about 1950, the Green Café formerly the Reading Room on the corner of Station Road and Church Road, with the Old Methodist Chapel next door. The 142 bus (Southmead Road, Henleaze Road, Downs, Whiteladies Road to the Centre), parked at the terminus further up Church Road. Photograph taken from one of the houses on the opposite corner of Station Road and Conygre Road. (Photographer unknown, from the Library Collection)
when the annual parish tea was held. In its latter years the Reading Room, its outside painted dark green, was converted into a café run by Frank Swales, who for many years was a church warden. It was demolished in 1962 to make way for the shops and maisonettes to be built in Church Road. Frank Swales reopened his café in one of the new shops facing the church. Thanks to Leslie and Noel Harris for information taken from ‘Filton, Gloucestershire’.
Flowers in Bloom Florist in the heart of Filton
From stunning bouquets and baskets to personalised tributes or sympathy flowers, we can provide you with an arrangement to suit your design and budget for any occasion, with local or national delivery.
124 Gloucester Road North | 0117 979 9594 www.flowersinbloombristol.co.uk
The Green Cafe continued to serve as the Church view flats were erected in 1962. Photo, Colin Pulsford Collection
Bristol Blinds We put others in the shade Call us on 0117 979 1918 for a FREE quotation 6 Church View, Filton, Bristol BS34 7BT
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www.filtonvoice.co.uk 25 filtonvoice Filton planning applications and decisions, December E: richard@filtonvoice.co.uk
January, 2013
Applications l 7 The Brimbles, Filton Erection of single storey front extension and conversion of integral garage to form self contained annexe ancillary to main residence. (Re-submission of PT12/3155/F) Decisions l 33 Northville Road, Filton
Erection of single storey rear extension to form additional living accommodation. Approve with Conditions l 20 Gloucester Road North, Filton Change of Use from Retail (Class A1) to Financial and Professional Services (Class A2) as defined in Town and Country
Planning (Use Classes) Order 1987 (as amended). Approve with Conditions l 87 Gloucester Road North, Filton Installation of 1 front and 1 side dormer to facilitate loft conversion and create additional rooms to Guest House (C1). Approve with Conditions
l 2A Mortimer Road, Filton Erection of 2 semi detached dwellings with new access and associated works Approve with Conditions l 9 Gayner Road, Filton Demolition of existing garage. Erection of 2 dwellings with associated works. Refusal
News
Shoppers’ gifts for Christmas The Filton-based North Bristol Foodbank has received thousands of meals after Tesco shoppers got into the Christmas spirit last month. Customers at the Tesco supermarkets in the Bristol region donating 14,600 meals of food to people in need at Christmas. The stores were among nearly 900 up and down the country taking part in “Help Feed People
In Need”, the largest ever food collection in the UK. The retailer joined forces with Foodbanks charity, the Trussell Trust and food redistribution charity FareShare to collect 1,000 tonnes of food, the equivalent of more than two million meals. Food raised by Bristol Tesco supermarkets was distributed to those in need by the North Bristol Foodbank as well as East Bristol Foodbank, Bristol NW
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Learn how your bike works , tools needed and how to do your own basic repairs and service.
To BOOK NOW or for more information please call 01454 868 570, email training@southernbrooks.org.uk or see www. southernbrooks.org.uk *FREE to those who have less than a level 2 qualification (£10 deposit may be required)
Foodbank and Yate and Chipping Sodbury Foodbank A Foodbanks spokesperson said: “Bristol Foodbanks were absolutely blown away by the generosity of shoppers at Tesco. “The four foodbanks would like to say a huge thank you to everyone who donated, and Christmas was a little brighter for families in crisis as a result. Stuart Sneddon, Tesco
Golden Hill store manager said: “We’ve been overwhelmed by customers’ generosity” Chris Mould, Executive Chairman of the Trussell Trust said: “More people are turning to foodbanks because they cannot afford both food and heating. “Thanks to incredible public generosity at Tesco store, foodbanks were able to provide emergency food to more families struggling to afford food.”
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January, 2013
Filton beat with Sgt Steve Ives Now Christmas and New Year are over, it’s time to make sure that all your new possessions are security-marked. If Father Christmas brought your child a bike or scooter, mark it with your postcode in ultraviolet pen or permanent marker and register the serial number with www.immobilise. com The same goes for any electrical goodies such as tablet computers, mp3 players and games consoles. You can download tracking apps to tablet computers as well. If you have a new mobile phone, get your IMEI number – input *#06# - and register it with Immobilise. Make sure you use security features like passwords, and get a tracking app if it’s a smart phone. If there was jewellery in your Christmas stocking, take photographs of it and keep the pictures somewhere safe.
midday to 8pm Wednesday and Friday (closed 4.15-5pm). In an emergency, call 999. Otherwise call 101 24/7.
Why is all this so important? Well, it deters thieves, because it means we can prove things have been stolen and secure a conviction, as well as helping us to get your treasured possessions back to you. Here’s to a safe and happy 2013 for us all. Contact the Filton team: • Call Filton police station on 101 • E-mail: ssn.filton@
avonandsomerset.police.uk • 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 11.45am-midday), and
l Patrolling officers, including volunteer Special Constables, arrested three men after stopping a car which was being driven erratically in the early hours of Sunday, December 30. Police saw the vehicle in Greenways Road, Yate, at about 3am. On speaking to the occupants officers believed they could smell cannabis, leading to a search of the car. We seized suspected cannabis as well as 24 small bags of white powder. A 19-year-old man from Filton, a man aged 21 from Coalpit Heath and a 22-year-old man from Frampton Cotterell were all arrested on suspicion of possessing drugs with intent to supply and released on police bail pending forensic tests.
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January, 2013
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Filton police news
Warning after Filton man, 88, is victim of distraction burglars Police are appealing for information following a distraction burglary at the home of an elderly man in Filton. At around 7pm on Sunday, December 16, two men wearing dark coloured hard hats knocked the door of a property in the Station Road area. The 88 year old man answered and was told he needed to turn off his water. The men came into the house and the victim turned off his stopcock. They advise they needed to check the water flow and they all went upstairs. When the men left the victim discovered that money had been stolen from his wallet. Officers investigating this incident would now like to speak to two men or anyone who may have seen them in the area.
The first man is described as white, 20 years old and around 5ft 6inches tall. He was of a slim to average build, clean shaven, and wearing a dark coloured hard hat with a peak, a jacket and trousers. The second man is described as white, around 20 yrs, around 5ft 5inches tall, of an average build, clean shaven, and wearing a dark coloured hard hat with a peak, a jacket and trousers. They both spoke with local accents and used local expressions. Anyone who has information about this incident is asked to call us on 101 or alternatively visit www.avonandsomerset. police.uk l Police in Filton are urging people to be wary of unexpected
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Great Western Air Ambulance Charity Available on site at - Pegasus House Filton Gloucester Road North, BS34 7PL. Adjacent to the A38. Your local Charity . We count on your Support . T: 0117 969 9344 www.greatwesternairambulance.com Registered Charity Number 1121300
callers to their door and look out for the elderly and more vulnerable people living in their communities. The request comes after a number of reports of suspicious people seeking to sell things on householders’ doorsteps, especially in the South Gloucestershire areas. A force spokesperson said: “A number of people have reported the same tale being told by callers, which is that they are selling door to door as part of a probation-related course after being released from prison. This is not true. “By law, anyone selling door to door must have a pedlar’s licence or, if their claim is that they are from a utility company, they must show identification.
“If you are not sure who is at your door, stop and think before you open it or let them into your home. “If someone calls claiming to be from a utility company wanting to check water or electricity or gas readings, then confirm the identity of the caller by ringing the company they are claiming to be from. Use the telephone numbers listed in your local directory or provided independently by your service provider. Don’t use any telephone numbers provided by the caller – they may be bogus. “Police would urge people to turn away cold callers who knock on your door offering gardening or repair services for cash. “Remember it’s your doorstep, your decision.”
MILLHOUSE BUTCHERS Millhouse Family Butchers has been established since 1928. We are well respected and we sell only quality meat • Homemade burgers and sausages • Free range woodland pigs • Fresh chicken, beef and local lamb • We can custom order whatever you want • Free range eggs and fresh organic veg boxes
COME AND VISIT US FOR GREAT FOOD AND GREAT SERVICE 26 Gloucester Road North, Filton BS7 0SJ (Opposite Blockbusters) Tel: 0117 969 2065
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Thought for the month
Council tax payers in Filton who were due to pay their December instalment by direct debit on December 25 should be aware that due to an administrative error these payments were taken a day early on December 24. A South Gloucestershire spokesperson said: “We apologise to those affected and residents have the following options: • Do nothing, as this was the December instalment and will not be taken twice • Request that the direct debit is recalled to your bank account by either contacting your bank or telling us, in writing, to refund the money to your account. “If you choose to have the money returned you must make an arrangement to pay this instalment to us straight away. “If you have incurred any bank charges as a direct result of the direct debit being taken a day early, you may be able to reclaim the charges from us.”
For the past five years distributing the cards for Churches Together in Filton I have noticed that the particular street that I visit does not have house number 13. I guess you know the reason why number 13 is omitted. Anyway, for me, 13 is a very special number. My birthday falls on the 13th in a particular month. Thanks be to God we are now in the year 2013 and it will be a good year. Just in case you are worried about the number 13 in 2013, remember the words of Minnie Louise Haskins, the poet and philosopher: “I said to the man who stood at the gate of the year: ‘Give me a light that I may tread safely into the unknown’.
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with Rev Oluyemisi Jaiyesimi from St Andrew’s Methodist Church, Filton “And he replied: ‘Go out into the darkness and put your hand into the hand of God. “‘That shall be to you better than a light and safer than a known way.’ “So I went forth and, finding the hand of God, trod gladly into the night. “And he led me towards the hills and breaking of day in the lone East.” I wish you all a most happy New Year. And as it happens to be the Year 2013, I leave you with a No 13 gift from the Bible. (Hebrews 13 Verse 5) “God has said: ‘Never will I leave you; Never will I forsake you.’” God bless you and yours most abundantly.
A complete funeral service from £1,550
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January, 2013
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Council tax payment taken a day early
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City Brunel centre site
Opening hours Mon-Fri, 8.30am-5.30pm Sat, 8.30am-12.30pm
The home of fair priced funerals 177 Crow Lane, Henbury, BS10 7DR Tel: 0117 950 8066 Web: www.bcmfuneralservices.co.uk
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January, 2013
Filtonvoice Suduko and AbicoWordsearch Apia
1 3 9 8
5 Austria 2
Bern
Bonn Celt
8
Chad
3 7
8
Arabian
1
1
9 4
Chilean
2 5 9 6
1 5 2
L S Q U I T O I C H I N A L T
China
Colom Cuba Dahomey
7
Dakar DC
9Detroit
1
Guinea
How to play: The objective of sudoku is to enter a digit from 1 to
A U S T R I A R U A O H I O O
29
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O D L U S A K A B W W M K A G
S A M O A N Y Q A A A Y Y U O
R N T R I P O L I I O L I C A
N T L L D E T R O I T N H Y N
E T I A M D C H I L E A N K I
W U S N A A U E I A D A K A R
A N B D R N L T P M C C B B A
R I O O A E T I A U B I E U N
K S N N B S A H O H C U R L K
O I T A I W A N S O T O N O T
M A N D A E M T L R W A L E S
A O N D N D A H O M E Y M O Z
N B O N N E J Y T A I P E I M
Find the following place names in the grid: Abico Apia Arabian
9 in each cell, in such a way that: 1 Each Hawaii horizontal row contains Austria Bern Bonn Celt Chad Chilean China Colom Cuba Dahomey each digit exactly once; 2 Each vertical column contains each digit Hunan SwedeDakar DC Detroit Guinea Hawaii Hunan Iowa Iran Iraq Kabul Laos exactly once; 3 Each subgrid (3x3 grids marked by thick lines) Lebanon Lima Lisbon Lusaka Mali Newark Ohio Oman Orlando Oslo contains each digit exactly once Iowa TaipeiQuito Samoan Sudan Swede Taipei Taiwan Thimbu Togoan Tokyo Tripoli Troy Tunisia UK Utah Wales ANSWERS ON PAGE 33
Iran
Taiwan
Iraq
Thimbu
Kabul
Togoan
Laos
Tokyo
Lebanon
Tripoli
Lima
Troy
Lisbon
Tunisia
Lusaka
UK
Mali
Utah
Newark
Wales
Ohio Oman Orlando Oslo Quito Samoan Sudan
Other dates for wedding shows in 2013 17th March | 10th May 7th July | 8th September 17th November
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Arts focus with Deborah Harvey Christmas wouldn’t be Christmas without a trip to the cinema with the kids, and for many years various Harry Potters and Lords of the Rings stood us in good stead. With the concluding parts of each series of films long gone, I’d thought those days were over, but the advent of The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey saw my (no longer) boys and I once again smuggling our bags of homemade popcorn past the guards at the Vue gatehouse. I felt quite nostalgic. But that appendage: The Unexpected Journey. It bothered me. The Hobbit is a fine piece of story-telling and a wonderful introduction to the epic that is The Lord of the Rings. But did it really warrant more than one, or at the very most, two parts? I soon had my answer in a long drawn-out explanatory
scene featuring the elderly Bilbo Baggins, the reluctant traveller of the title, and his nephew, Frodo, which felt very much as if it had been lifted wholesale from the first part of The Lord of the Rings. This was followed by another exquisitely dull scene of feasting in the hobbit’s house, which would have been
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January, 2013
Sing yourself fit A case of Bil-bore Baggins! fun had it been half as long. By the time the younger Bilbo (perfectly portrayed by Martin Freeman) breathed ‘Rivendell’ and we were treated to endless shots of waterfalls and those drippy elves, who are tedious even when being brief ... I was almost asleep. There were some good bits. The Stone-Giants were spectacular and the seminal scene when Bilbo encounters Gollum by the lake under the Misty Mountains and acquires his precious ring was no affront to the imagination. But there was far too much hanging about – not just in lingering shots of the admittedly stunning New Zealand countryside, but also off rocks, precipices and splintering trees. I am not so sure that I’ll be doing the same for Parts II and III. Deborah Harvey is a Filton poet and author.
A local women’s singing group says exercising the vocal chords could play a part in a new year fitness regime. Avon Harmony are looking for new members from Filton to join their group, which meets on Thursdays at Fairfield High School in Horfield. A group spokesperson said: “If you feel the need to take up a new fitness regime in the new year, why not start singing, as part of your campaign? “Singing tones the tummy muscles, improves posture, releases the same ’feel good’ endorphins as chocolate, improves breathing, increases oxygen levels in the blood, and reduces stress! Both experienced singers, who would like to try acappella harmony, and novices, are welcome. No music reading is required, just the ability to listen and sing in tune. Visit www.avonharmony. co.uk or call Mandy on 01179 652693. enquiries@ avonharmony.co.uk Find us on Facebook www.facebook.com/ avonharmony
State-of-the-art sports facilities for hire Sports Hall Sprung floor dance studio Floodlit multi use games area for Netball, Tennis and Basketball Floodlit all weather pitch for Hockey or Football (sand based) For more details contact us by phone or email on Tel: 0117 3075660 | lettings@abbeywoodschool.com www.abbeywoodschool.com/lettings
To advertise, contact Richard on 0777 555 0607, Emma on 0771 577 0448 or Wendy on 0771 577 0242. Email: adverts@filtonvoice.co.uk
January, 2013
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The BIG picture
filtonvoice
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31 The January winner of our BIG picture competition is Mr M Tozer from Filton who took this picture of a robin in his garden. Congratulations to Mr Tozer, who wins £10. Fancy yourself as a bit of a photographer? Now’s your chance to win £10 as part of our new feature, The Big Picture. We’re looking for photos which capture life in Filton and we’ll print the best ones each month. To take part, send your picture by email to richard@filtonvoice. co.uk by the last day of the month. The editor’s decision is final.
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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Nathan
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35% off MRP
up to
Duresta Upholstery
up to
25% off MRP
Jamboree 5 seater corner group Was £2869. Stool extra - Was £339. Now £279. Sofas & chair combinations also available
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Sale Price
£2399
Somerset’s largest choice of branded upholstery & beds
Vi-Spring
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25% off MRP
Harrison
L
OCATED in the centre of Shepton Mallet, Somerset’s largest furniture and bed store is starting it’s biggest sale to date. With more than half price savings on top name brands, free UK-wide white glove delivery and free collection, disposal and recycling of your old furniture, bed or mattress; and the largest sale reductions to date. Haskins Furniture is also closer than you may think - only a forty minute or so drive from Bristol.Garry Preston, Managing Director of Haskins Furniture, says: “We furnish homes all over the UK and wherever possible, we use our own specialist delivery teams, plus, of course, delivery is free. Collecting and recycling customers’ old beds, mattresses, furniture and upholstery has proved a huge hit. Collected upholstery is offered to a number of local charities before being sent for recycling. “You’ll find the largest Ercol furniture gallery in the country; the biggest Tempur bed selection in the region; a brand new stunning Halo living studio, in an urban vintage style - the largest one in the whole of the West Country; a superb Ekornes Stressless studio, with G Plan Upholstery, Vi-Spring Beds - all at fantastic prices. Not sure of your comfort level? In our Sleepeezee Pure bed gallery you lay on our special sensor bed and it identifies the optimum bed in the range to suit your requirements.” Haskins Furniture is based within Haskins Retail Centre in the centre of Shepton Mallet, with over 100,000 square feet of retail space. With DIY, branded clothing, carpets, shoes and a fantastic restaurant - and of course, free parking. Don’t miss out - take advantage of fantastic savings on top brand furniture, visit Haskins Furniture Shepton Mallet. Open Boxing Day 9am.
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Hudson vintage leather upholstery, shown in old saddlenut. 3 seater main Was £1869. 2 seater sofa Was £1499. Sale £1099
Save 25%
Sale Price
£1399
Visit Somerset’s largest furniture store in Shepton Mallet or buy online at haskinsfurniture.co.uk
Haskins Retail Centre, Shepton Mallet, BA4 5AX. 0845 6430 544 (local call rate). Open 7 days a week. Free parking. Check website for shopping hours E&OE. Offers are for a limited period only and all items are subject to availability. Pictures are used for illustration purposes only and the accuracy of product colours printed cannot be guaranteed. Was price refers to HFSM Ltd’s previous price (HPP), and MRP refers to the manufacturer’s recommended price. Headboards not included with divan sets and mattresses not included with bedframes, unless otherwise stated.
HASKINS FURNITURE SHEPTON MALLET
filtonvoice
E: richard@filtonvoice.co.uk
January, 2013
News
Health Matters
Second rail station for Filton take step forward Filton could have a second railway station as part of plans for a Greater Bristol Metro. The scheme by the West of England Partnership could see the former North Filton station closed in 1964 - re-opened again. This would connect to a re-opened Henbury Station, giving greater access to Cribbs Causeway. Currently the plans are for a Henbury ‘spur’ which would mean services stopping there and returning but a campaign has been launched by Bristol North West MP Charlotte Leslie calling for the Henbury ‘loop’ which would mean Filton and Henbury would be linked to Shirehampton and Avonmouth. And before Christmas, Ms Leslie, who led a cross-party delegation of city and regional MPs to meet transport minister Simons Burns, was given official confirmation that the government has been convinced that it needs to look at the case for a loop. She said: “Plans for mass housing development risk unacceptable congestion on north Bristol’s roads, unless a loop line is in place. The loop would also mean people in north Bristol would have easy access to workplaces in and around Avonmouth, which has recently been designated an enterprise area. “The plans for the Metro as
they stand fall short of ideal. While they are a massive step forward, I believe that without the Henbury Loop it will be the missed opportunity of a generation. “In short, as the plans stand, the line would ‘stop’ at Henbury, not link up to the Severn Beach Line ... meaning passengers travelling from Redland or Clifton Down looking for a connection to Cribbs Causeway would have to go all the way into Bristol and out again via Filton.
with Dr Liz Lee, Horfield Health Centre
“The ironic thing is that the track is there for freight now – we just need the green light for passenger services along with a reopened Henbury Station.” Ms Leslie has now launched a petition, Facebook and twitter campaign to ensure that as many voices are heard to bring pressure on the partnership. This can be found at www. henburyloop.bristolpetitions. com. There is a Facebook page www.facebook.com/ henburyloop
Staff from Sainbury’s in Filton presented Avon Valley Athletics under 9’s football team with a community grant of £80 in order that they may purchase some new equipment
Puzzle answers from Page 29
1 5 9 6 3 7 8 4 2
7 3 8 2 4 1 5 9 6
2 4 6 9 5 8 3 1 7
4 9 1 3 7 2 6 5 8
6 7 5 4 8 9 1 2 3
3 8 2 1 6 5 4 7 9
5 2 3 7 1 6 9 8 4
9 1 4 8 2 3 7 6 5
8 6 7 5 9 4 2 3 1
L S Q U I T O I C H I N A L T
A U S T R I A R U A O H I O O
O D L U S A K A B W W M K A G
S A M O A N Y Q A A A Y Y U O
R N T R I P O L I I O L I C A
N T L L D E T R O I T N H Y N
E T I A M D C H I L E A N K I
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W U S N A A U E I A D A K A R
A N B D R N L T P M C C B B A
R I O O A E T I A U B I E U N
K S N N B S A H O H C U R L K
O I T A I W A N S O T O N O T
M A N D A E M T L R W A L E S
A O N D N D A H O M E Y M O Z
N B O N N E J Y T A I P E I M
New Year Resolutions It’s time to put the excesses of Christmas behind us and get healthy for 2013. If you are a smoker, now is a good time to try and quit. Local pharmacists are stocking free NHS Quit Kits as part of a new campaign to help you. Or contact the Smokefree Bristol team to find out about local advisors and groups who will help you. Men should aim to drink no more than 21 units of alcohol per week or up to 4 units per day with two alcholol free days. Women should aim for a maximum of 14 units a week or up to 3 units per day with 2 alcohol free days. As for exercise just try and get out and get active at something you enjoy regularly. l More useful information can be found at: Smokefree Bristol 0117 9841650 / info@ smokefreebristol.com NHS Choices Live Well http://www.nhs. uk/LiveWell/Pages/ Livewellhub.aspx See our advert, Page 18
ANDREW MURLEY Digital Aerial Installations TV / DVD Repairs 20 Years’ Experience Freeview & Digital Recorders, Sales & Installations. Tel. 01454 774045 / 07890 336310
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
p u e k a W ...to a new year and a new you
With the start of the New Year we think about how we can improve the things we do in our everyday life. It’s the best time to make those changes and kick start the year with how you mean to go on. Why not think about an alternative route to work which will help you get a bit of exercise, be a bit greener and hopefully save you money at the same time! Check out our website for more information on how to get to work without getting in that driving seat www.travelwest.info There are three new or improved bus routes launching in January to help commuters in Filton, Aztec West, Bradley Stoke and Emersons Green areas. The buses will be express services with a higher frequency than normal, helping you get to work. The X18, operated by First, links Aztec west to Emersons Green, which features leather seats and free wifi, will be linking key businesses for commuters and ensuring better connections with other routes. From Monday 21 January to Friday 25 January 2013 inclusive, all travel on the First X18 bus service is free of charge. So just turn up and try the service as many times are you like completely free. From 14 January the existing Wessex Red service 13, from the University of the West of England (UWE) to Bristol city centre, will be extended to link to Bradley Stoke and Filton. The number 19 Wessex Red service is also to be extended to go from UWE into Bristol city centre via Bristol University and a doubling of the frequency of the service. The buses will run more frequently during commuting times to ensure Bradley Stoke to Bristol City centre and the Willow brook Centre, Filton to Bristol City centre. The Wessex Red 13 & 19 services will also be running a free week travel offer for more information on this and the X18 please visit www.travelwest.info
Jonathon Knight, Regional Facilities Manager at Boeing travels a lot for work but is based in their Bristol office. He comments that the extra bus services on the X18 will be a great bonus for his colleagues and local business alike, especially with the added bonus of Wifi. ‘It’s fantastic as you can work on your way in to the office and prepare for the day ahead; You can sit back and relax whilst someone else is driving’ The additional routes will make it easier for people to get in to the office on a morning. As a company we really promote sustainable travel and this will vastly open up the options for people who usually travel in by car.
in partnership with
www.travelwest.info
• cycle • car share • walk • bus • train •
January, 2013
E: richard@filtonvoice.co.uk
filtonvoice
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Filton business of the month
35
This month we meet Johann Scantlebury who runs her own beauty and holistic treatment centre in Filton ... and who has just expanded to Clifton Name, age and how long you have been working in your current profession. Johann Scantlebury, part time over the last 10 years, full time for a year, working in Filton and Clifton. Where are you from? Bristol, Filton Tell us a bit more about what you do I started my journey in beauty and holistic treatments in 2002. My Reiki hands on healing journey began in 2006. I practise as rejuvenateyourspirit.com from my home in Filton and also from Johann at Purete, Clifton Arcade, Boyces Avenue, Bristol. What’s the best bit about the job? Reiki healing, it’s a gift which words can not explain... People healthy or experiencing disease/ unease find a sense of peace, and serenity is felt from within. Anyone can access the universal energy and slowly but surely changes happen. To find out more about people’s experiences, see my testimonials page on my website.
And therefore no treatment is the same, each visit will be different. Plus my personal journey and experiences gave me the access to a wide range of life tools I share. I am grateful to follow my life’s purpose to help others to help them feel healthier, more energised and balanced.
Tell us what you offer to set yourselves apart from others. I am Reiki Master and I tailor my therapies for the individual.
What are your plans for the future of the business? I’m excited as my 2nd year plan has just become a reality. On
Graham Cook Gardener and handyman
Grass cutting, hedge and shrub trimming, weeding, planting, felling small trees, clearing, small painting jobs including garden fences and other maintenance work. Please call for a no-obligation chat
Call 0117 377 0644 or 07415 658 205
Friday 28th December I opened a healing/treatment room in the Clifton Arcarde, Boyces Avenue. My future vision will be to have a healing centre, offering complementary therapies and beauty treatments to make people feel and look great.
Get in touch Telephone: 07971 682580
Rejuvenate Your Spirit, 46 Gloucester Road North, Bristol BS7 0SJ Purete, 14 Clifton Arcade, Boyces Avenue, Bristol BS8 4AA Web: www.rejuvenateyourspirit. com Email: johannscantlebury@ yahoo.co.u
‘OFFER OF THE MONTH’ 6 Doors Fitted in Your Home For Only
£369
Any 6 white primed 6-panel ‘Colonial’ or 2-panel ‘Classique’ doors, complete with 3 choices of brass handles, hinges, mortice catch & fitted in your home
DOOR EXPRESS 08000 973333 07767 376770
A PHONE CALL WILL SECURE YOUR ORDER FITTING DATE
This offer applies to door sizes 78”x30” & 78”x27”. Other sizes available for a small extra charge
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
36
T: 0777 555 0607
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January, 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. £3.50 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, 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, Work club: St Andrews Methodist Youth Centre, Elm Park, BS34 7PS , 2-4.30pm: 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! 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 and Stroud College, Filton Avenue, 7.15 pm. Potential new members very welcome. Call 0117 9424378.” Filton WI, monthly meetings, 1st Thursday of every month, Newleaze House, Filton, call 0117 330 6071 Knitting Group 5.45 pm – 6.45pm Thursdays, Filton Library, Shields Centre Dinky Dolphins, baby and pre-school swimming session, games music and play, 10am11am. These sessions are first come, first served. £3.50 for 1 adults and up to two children, Filton Sports and Leisure Centre, term time only Tiddlers and toddlers playgroup, St Peter’s Church Hall, 10amnoon, 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 Andrews Methodist Youth Centre, Elm Park, BS34 7PS, 10am-noon (note we’ve changed from Fridays!) Drop-in for ‘silver-haired’ folk (over 50yrs) to get help with ac-
cessing 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 50p for a tea/coffee (and sometimes a biscuit!) This group does not run during August
Fridays
Dinky Dolphins, baby and pre-school swimming session, games music and play, 10am11am. These sessions are first come, f irst served. £3.50 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
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, Filton, January 28 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.
St Andrews Youth Centre
For young people: Mondays 6-9pm Towards Independence Awards for 16-25 year olds with mild learning difficulties and autistic spectrum disorder. A range of accreditted awards to improve their independence skills and also make new friends! Various modules available as 6-12 week courses, £10 for one course or £15 for two. Contact the office for information! Tuesdays 7-9pm Youth club for Secondary School Year 7 and 8s (11-13yrs) £1 entry - a range of fun activities on offer Wednesdays 5.45-6.30pm (term-time) Street dance sessions! £2 per session for 9-14year olds! Bring a drink as you’ll get hot and sweaty!! Wednesdays 7-9.30pm Youth club for Secondary School Year 9-13 (13-19yrs) £1 entry - a range of fun activities on offer! Thursdays 7-9.30pm Youth club for Secondary School Years 10+ (14yrs - up to 25yrs for those with learning difficulties). £1 entry - a range of activities on offer! NEW!! Fridays 6.30-8.30pm Girls’ Night! For Secondary School Years 7-13 (11-19yrs) £1 entry - a range of fun and interesting activities on offer just for young women! Fun football sessions are on at Elm Park courts 6.30-8pm for 11-14year olds, £1 per week - football skills and matches, looking to get teams together to play against other youth centres The 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 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
Pyramid Youth Club
Mondays: 6.30-8pm: Inters 10-
To advertise, contact Richard on 0777 555 0607, Emma on 0771 577 0448 or Wendy on 0771 577 0242. Email: adverts@filtonvoice.co.uk
January, 2013
E: richard@filtonvoice.co.uk
12 yrs. activities include football, basketball and other sports, pool, table tennis, computers, cookery and craft, tuck shop 8pm-10pm: Seniors 13+, activities include circuit training, football, basketball and other sports, pool, table tennis, computers, cookery and craft, tuck shop, Subs £1 (50p members) Tuesdays: 6.30-7.30: Junior Judo 5-12 yrs; 7.30-9pm: Senior Judo 13+, £2.50 children/students, £3 adults Wednesday: Occasional events in or out of Club. Thursdays: 6.30-7.45: Juniors
filtonvoice
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5-9 yrs, activities include games, computers, cookery, tuck shop.
contact Margaret Morris 0117 9691315
8pm-10pm: Seniors 13+, activities include DJing, football, basketball and other sports, pool, table tennis, computers, cookery and craft, tuck shop, Subs £1 (50p members)
Filton Community Centre 983 6500
Friday: 7.30-10pm: Seniors 13+, activities include music (drums, guitar, keyboard), football, basketball and other sports, pool, table tennis, computers, cookery and craft, tuck shop. Subs £1 (50p members). Including DJing music mixing, vocal skills Based at 470 Filton Avenue,
Mondays: Tea dance, 1.45-3.45, 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 Wednesdays: Pilates, 10-12; Dawn James Art, 962 2982; Camera Club, 7.30-9.30,
37
alternate weeks, call 965 1242 for details; Strictly Ballroom, 907 6960; Historical Club (4th Wed), 7.30-9.30, 969 2025 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
What’s coming up in Filton Tues, 22nd January Filton Town Council Planning Meeting, 7.00pm, in the Small Meeting Room
Sat, 26th January
Table top sale at Filton Community Centre. £5 for 1 table, £7.50 for 2 tables. Set up 9.30 for 10.00am finish at 12 noon, half an hour to clear tables. Tea and coffee for sale. Free admission for the public. To reserve tables call 07527808206 or 07929235607.
Tues, 29th January
Filton Town Council Full Council meeting 7.30pm, in the Pavilion.
Thurs, 7th February FACS (Friends of Abbeywood
Community School) Quiz Night. Doors open at 7.00 pm, quiz starts promptly at 7.30 pm. £10 per team (max 6) in advance or £12 on the night. Licensed bar. Age 16+ only please. For advance tickets please email facs@abbeywoodschool. com
Sat, 9th February
Filton Library, Chatterbooks: children’s reading group at 2.30pm. Suitable for keen readers in years 5 & 6. Ask staff for details.
Tues, 12th February 7.30pm, Filton Town Council Finance Committee Pavilion, Pavilion, Elm Park
Weds, 13th February - Sat, 16th February St Andrew’s Players will be celebrating 30 years of performing pantomimes with a production of “Sleeping Beauty”. This traditional family panto will take place at St Andrew’s Church Hall. Filton on 13 – 16 February 2013, starting at 7.30pm. Also Saturday matinee, 2.30pm Tickets are priced at £6 for adults and £3 for children. To book your seats, you can call the Box Office on 0845 1540950. More information is available on www.sapfilton.co.uk As in previous years, a donation will be shared amongst two charities which this time
round will be Riding for the Disabled and Epilepsy Bereaved. See advert on Page 12
Sat, 16th February Filton Library, February Fun: crafts and stories for children aged 3-11
Tues, 12th February 7pm, Filton Town Council Planning Committee, Small Meeting Room
Tues, 26th February
Filton Town Council Full Council meeting 7.30pm, in the Pavilion.
Weekdays Coffee shop, 9am – 12:30pm, St Peter’s Church, Filton
Welsh Wizard on song On New Year’s Day, 60 or so like-minded organ
enthusiasts attended a buffet lunch at Eden Grove Methodist Church. In the afternoon we had a wonderful concert (as usual) by Byron Jones on the 1927 Compton Theatre Organ (a 3 manual 12 rank rising from the stage in true traditional style. ) The Concert comprised a varied selection of music including Rogers & Hammerstein shows to modern pieces, alternating with wonderful classical pieces such as Ave Maria and hymns. The concert would not be complete without a Welsh selection, and sing-a-long. We finished with ‘Auld Lang Syne’ Considering we attend Byron’s concerts regularly, we are amazed, each one sounds completely fresh. Every month a visiting organist attends (26th Jan. (Janet Dowsett) 23rd Feb. (Mark Laflin) and Byron himself on 23rd March. (All start at 7pm) A brilliant start to 2013. Brian Freeguard
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
38
T: 0777 555 0607
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January, 2013
FREE EVE
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for people August, 2012
series is getting louder!
Just 16 months after the launch of Filtonvoice - and 11 months since Keynshamvoice arrived - the third in the ‘Voice’ series has been landing on Bishopston doormats. Bishopstonvoice will be the must-read publication for residents along Gloucester Road.
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Inside
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Dramatic scene as EastEnders s heads West P19
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Now local businesses can get a superb deal advertising in all three publications ... with a combined monthly hand-delivered distribution to 20,000 homes ... and look out in the next few months for even more ‘Voice’ publications Whole page advert in all three publications for just £540 per month Half page advert in all three publications for just £297 per month Quarter page advert in all three publications for just £148.50 per month Eighth page advert in all three publications for just £67.50 per month To advertise, contact Richard on 0777 555 0607, Emma on 0771 577 0448 or Wendy on 0771 577 0242. Email: adverts@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.
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