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Decision which saved my life on the night bombers targeted Margaret Thatcher, P13

May, 2013 Issue 20

www.filtonvoice.co.uk

Property of the month, Page 23 | Letters, Pages 14&15

Filton’s BEST 2013 Search for our local heroes P9 STOP PRESS Roadworks

People Power! Filton health clinic is saved, P3 Anger over Filton UKIP wins landlords, P4&5 by-election, P7

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The roadworks due to start on June 3 to widen the top of the ring road at the main Filton roundabout will begin after the roadworks outside the Airbus factory have been completed. Cllr Roger Hutchinson told the town council that all work on the carriageways outside Airbus would be over by the time the ring road work began amid fears that two separate schemes would leave Filton gridlocked.

Brass band homes

Filtonvoice understand that one of the region’s top brass bands will again have a home in Filton after their current rehearsal venue became unavailable. Filton Concert Brass is negotiating an opportunity to use Filton Community Centre, under an arrangement which would see concerts given at the venue. Full story next month

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Contacts

Richard Coulter Editor and publisher

0777 555 0607 | richard@filtonvoice.co.uk

Emma Cooper Advertising sales

0771 577 0448 | emma@filtonvoice.co.uk EDITOR’S NOTE: Filtonvoice is independent. We cannot take responsibility for content or accuracy of adverts, and it is advertisers’ responsibility to conform to all relevant legislation. We cannot vouch for any services offered although we have used some of the services.

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

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

Fire

www.avonandsomersetpolice.uk General enquiries: 101 Emergency: 999

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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Why advertising in Filtonvoice is the BEST option ... just listen to what our advertisers and customers are saying GotoiT, P11

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I recently had a computer virus and on a Saturday morning I phoned Graham at DGR Windows, P15 gotoiT. He could not Window and door repairs Our friendly have been more helpful After reading the advert for team are and asked me to bring DGR Windows in the ‘Voice’ looking forward my computer in straight we contacted them and 2 to seeing you away. Graham Tel 0117 969 phoned 2701 other companies who all me several times to attended and quoted for Tel 0117 969 2701 ... call for an appointment keep me updated on 6 replacement ‘Georgian’ ... call for an appointment 702 Filton Avenue his progress and I barred double glazed units Filton, Bristol BS34 7JL 702 Filton picked upAvenue my computer that had ‘misted’ up over the following Tuesday, Filton,the Bristol BS34 7JL years. Not only was DGR completely restored to Windows the cheapest quote health. I was impressed but the time scale between ERNEST S TILL that he explained things measuring and fitting was (South West) & CO LTD to me in words I could just under 3 weeks. He is a understand and he was very personable man and we ELECTRICAL CONTRACTORS very professional. would happily recommend I am delighted to find his work to any person Shower Installations - Rewires - Sockets - General such excellent service needing similar work to Maintenance - Intruder & Fire Alarms - Lighting locally. ourselves. Design & Installation Mary Hemmings Jill & Brian Freeguard Emergency & Security Lighting Specialists Filton Park Filton Park Full Testing & Inspecting to Certification I decided to put an ad in filtonvoice and I was (Landlord’s Certificate) delighted to pick up work well into next year, and Portable Appliance Testing not just a one-off job but a number of jobs. Local Authority Approved Contractors

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May, 2013

News

E: richard@filtonvoice.co.uk

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Joy as Filton health clinic saved

Campaigners are celebrating after it was confirmed that the Filton Clinic in Shields Avenue will remain open. They said the decision was a victory for “people power” and also common sense. The facility’s future was placed under threat in 2011 when specialist children’s health services were moved to the new hub building in Patchway. At the time, as reported in Filtonvoice, local people were angered by what they saw as another service being lost to Filton. The level of public anger was so great that the closure was suspended pending consultation and a review. Late last year it was decided to retain the facility and now this decision has been confirmed after a meeting of the South Glos Public Health and Health Scrutiny Committee. Cllr Ian Scott, who chairs the committee and who has been at the forefront of the campaign to keep the facility open, told a meeting of Filton Town Council that a review had shown more than 70 per cent of the space at the clinic during the week was being utilised by podiatrists and opticians while hearing aid batteries were also being

dispensed. He also said that with the population in Filton and Patchway set to nearly double by 2021, there will be a need for both sites. He said: “The PCT has decided to retain both Filton and Patchway Clinics and make better use of both sites.” He said other services would

be sought which could use the facilities. At a gathering of protesters outside the clinic, Cllr Scott was praised for his hard work by protesters. He told protesters: “If we had got rid of this clinic, what would have happened to the site? “This is a victory for common

sense and for the people of Filton.” One protester said: “I am so glad they have decided to keep this clinic open. “I came here as a toddler and now as a mum and we really need it in Filton.” Local man Brian Smith said it was a victory for “people power”.

GP will NOT relocate to clinic

Cllr Scott has confirmed that the Elm Lodge GP surgery, a branch of the Concord Medical Centre in Stoke Lodge, will not relocate to the Shields Avenue Clinic site. He said that the practice,

which wrote to patients earlier this year telling them of the closure, was suggesting patients use other GP practices in the area, including the Northville practice.

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

filtonvoice

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May, 2013

News special - landlords

‘Absent landlords don’t care about our Filton community’

Residents gather to protest over rental homes which are neglected by tenants and landlords, bringing down the quality of life for long-term residents

Filton residents have called on landlords to clean up their act after describing a miserable catalogue of rubbish being left in gardens, overgrown weeds, litter and general un-neighbourly behaviour by some tenants. A group, led by local woman Kirstie Barnes, gathered at Elm Park to voice their concerns, which were heard by town councillors Adam Monk and Darryl Collins. The residents

said that while many tenants and landlords were good neighbours, a significant proportion were making life difficult for long-term residents. Some protesters blamed the large student population in Filton and the emergence of multiple-occupancy homes while others said the problem was broader than that with the responsibility falling to landlords to solve the issues.

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Ms Barnes said: “There needs to be a cap on the percentage of student lets in any one area. “We already have a large elderly population and when they go, we will see even more of these kinds of households. “We have seen the impact on Filton avenue with the number of takeaways.” Resident Malcolm Brown said it was not an issue about students but about the role of the landlords. He said that people who did not live in a house long-term would not make the effort to look after their gardens. Protesters said that part of the problem was that landlords did not live in the local area and they rarely come to introduce themselves to local people. One said: “They never introduce themselves - they are only interested in the money.” Resident Claire Troot said that she had suffered verbal abuse from a group of tenants who played music late at night. Cllr Monk said that if any household was causing lots of litter, they should be reported to South Gloucestershire Streetcare

and that persistent ‘offenders’ could face a fine. Some residents said that Streetcare would come round but that the problem would return within a week or so. Cllr Monk also said that while Filton Town Council objects to any homes of multiple occupancy, South Glos needs to take each application on merit. On Facebook, South Glos councillor Roger Hutchinson said: “Over the years we have refused applications which result in the applicant appealing against our decision. “The appeal is almost guaranteed to result in our decision overturned with costs awarded against the council.”

If you are concerned about the state of a house in your locality, call Streetcare on 01454 868686

To advertise, contact Richard on 0777 555 0607, Emma on 0771 577 0448 or Wendy on 0771 577 0242. Email: adverts@filtonvoice.co.uk

May, 2013

E: richard@filtonvoice.co.uk

filtonvoice

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News special - landlords

Filton resident Dave Mikkelson says the problem could be solved by South Glos adopting rules which have been introduced in neighbouring authorities, including B&NES. He has now raised this to be discussed at the Filton Parish Assembly on May 28 in the Pavilion at Elm Park and he is urging residents to come along and make their point At Filton Council Full Council last month I raised the subject of HMOs (houses of multiple occupation) and in my view the saturation of student properties in Filton. Under current planning legislation if you convert a house into bedsits you need planning permission. Buy to Let landlords get round the planning issue by using the HMO legislation which allows properties to be converted provided some of the facilities in the property are shared. It does not necessarily mean that all of the occupants have to share the facilities just as long as some do. There is no appeal available to residents when a property is converted into an HMO.

Filton is now suffering from this legislation. Where we used to have greengrocers, butchers and bakers we now have fast food outlets and takeaways, all of which cater for the student market. The rank of shops in the Bulldog area have seven

of these. I was canvassing for the local elections on behalf of Helen Johnson and one of the most frequent complaints was the number of student houses. It is easy to spot a student house. They are the ones where the bins are always left out, gardens untidy and washing hanging up in the windows. Students have no investment in the local community. Under Council Tax rules any property that wholly contains students are not subject to Council Tax therefore the residents who do pay their Council Tax have to make up the shortfall. It is no wonder that Filton residents pay the highest council tax in South Gloucestershire. The HMO legislation does,

however, contain a safety net to prevent areas becoming overburdened. It is called an article 4 direction which means developers have to seek planning permission for HMOs. The Article 4 direction does not have to apply to the whole of the council area. It can just apply to certain districts, eg Filton. Many local authorities have used the legislation eg Southampton, Oxford, Leeds, Manchester, Poole, Brighton, Portsmouth and Nottingham. Closer to home B&NES have done it for properties in Bath. I have now got HMOs on the agenda at the Councils Annual Assembly on May 28 in the Pavilion. What we need is to get as many people to the meeting as possible.

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

T: 0777 555 0607

filtonvoice

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May, 2013

Computer tips with Graham Simmonds of goto iT in Filton Why does my computer run slowly? – part 2 It might seem strange that your lovely new PC gets slower and slower as the years go by. Why might that be? There can be a range of reasons, which can be one or more of the following: • Your version of Windows is corrupt - files on your computer can get damaged so they don’t run as well as they should. • The hardware might be malfunctioning – your hard drive (where you store files) or RAM (temporary storage) can start to fail as it gets old and either slow down or stop working completely. • Incorrect drivers installed – these are little programs which communicate between the PC and the hardware so the system knows all the different components of the computer, Of course we check for all these things and more during

Sunday 10 May 2013 from 11am ‘til 2pm

a health check. If you would like to know more, drop in and see us. If there is anything you would like to see a short article about, please contact us on 0117 969 8767 or visit us in our shop on the corner of Filton Ave and the A4174.

Advert on Page 11

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To advertise, contact Richard on 0777 555 0607, Emma on 0771 577 0448 or Wendy on 0771 577 0242. Email: adverts@filtonvoice.co.uk

May, 2013

E: richard@filtonvoice.co.uk

News

filtonvoice

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UKIP wins seat on town council Filton has its first UKIP councillor after Keith Briffett took the Conygre seat from Labour in a by-election after the resignation of Councillor Bill Edgeworth. Mr Briffett polled 338 votes, or 37% of the vote, ahead of Labour’s Ken Hoare with 233 votes. Independent Helen Johnson secured 185 votes. For the Conservatives, Alan Booth polled 151 votes. The turnout of 907 represented 30% of the electorate in Conygre ward. Mr Briffett said: “There are lots of problems in Filton in terms of infrastructure, pot holes and student lets. “Part of the problem we have is that we are giving away so much of our money to Brussels. “You start by winning local

elections then hopefully national elections.” Mr Hoare said: “I’ll support any candidate for the good of Filton. A lot of hard work went in but there had to be a winner. Ms Johnson said: “I hope (Mr Briffett) will do as much as he can for Conygre.” Mr Booth said: “This was a disappointing result but Conygre is not really a Conservative area.”

Result Keith Briffett, UKIP, 338 37% (top left) Ken Hoare, Lab, 233 26% (top right) Helen Johnson, Ind, 185 20% (bottom left) Alan Booth, Cons, 151 17% (bottom right)

The result now means Filton Town Council has five Independent councillors, four Labour, two Conservative, one Independent Labour and one UKIP

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May, 2013

Former pupils urged to ‘come back to school’ for 50th anniversary Head teacher Amanda Pritchard along with staff and students at St Teresa’s Primary are getting ready for their 50th anniversary celebrations

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A local primary is on the lookout for ex-pupils to help the school celebrate its 50th anniversary this year. St Teresa’s Catholic Primary School is hosting a series of events to mark the occasion and head teacher Amanda Pritchard wants everyone with a connection to the school to return and re-live ‘the happiest days of your life’. A project has also been launched to collect old school photos to add to the school’s own collection and these will be on display over the weekend of Friday and Saturday, June 21 and 22. Events for the celebration include a Golden Jubilee Barn Dance open to current and past pupils and staff, to be held in a large marquee on the school fields on Saturday June 22. Tickets are available from the school. There will also be a special Mass celebrated by the Bishop of Clifton, Declan Lang on Friday, June 21 at 10.00am in the school amphitheatre, again open to all with a connection to the school. St Teresa’s was built in 1963, just three years after the parish church in Filton was rebuilt, all under the guidance of the thenpriest Canon Lucey. The school has gone from strength to strength under its four head teachers, and

was recently judged to be an outstanding Catholic School and Ofsted judged it ‘Good’ with outstanding features. It is hoped that former heads Bernard Brain and Gordon Nicholas will attend the celebrations. As part of the anniversary, organisers hope to establish an Ex-Pupils’ Jubilee Fund to enable former pupils to give something back to support the future work of the school. Head teacher Amanda Pritchard said: “This is a real landmark for our school family and we are hoping to welcome back former pupils from far and wide. “We know of so many pupils who have gone on to do a rich variety of things and it would be great to get them back ‘under one roof’ again to share their recollections of their days at the school. “It is also a chance for us to reaffirm our commitment to serving our children both now and for future generations to come. All schools are about teaching and learning but as a Catholic school we are about teaching, learning and faith and as a school we are very much intertwined with the life of our parishes, well supported by our Parish Priest, Father Tom Finnegan.” The celebrations coincide with St Teresa’s and St. Vincent’s Churches Parish Mission which will also culminate on the weekend of June 22/23. Many events are planned included sessions with some inspiring speakers, aimed at both church goers and those who currently do not attend but who are seeking a spiritual component to their life. To get in touch about the anniversary, please contact the school office on 0117 9030412. More information can be found on www.st-teresas.bristol. sch.uk and www.stteresasfilton. org.uk

To advertise, contact Richard on 0777 555 0607, Emma on 0771 577 0448 or Wendy on 0771 577 0242. Email: adverts@filtonvoice.co.uk

May, 2013

E: richard@filtonvoice.co.uk

filtonvoice

www.filtonvoice.co.uk

is proud to launch ....

Filton’s BEST 2013 We love being at the heart of life in Filton and now we want to celebrate what’s best about living here. We’re looking for Filton people who deserve to be recognised ... good neighbours, inspirational teachers, courteous shopkeepers, tireless volunteers and young people who are great role models.

Do YOU know anyone who fits the bill?

If so, we want to hear about them and there will be the chance to recognise their achievements at a special ceremony in Filton in the Autumn. See the panel right to find out what to do next.

Filton’s Best Neighbour: Does your neighbour go the extra mile, look out for everyone in the street and generally make life a whole lot better? Filton’s Best Shopkeeper: Do you always get a smile and perfect service ... and do they go out of their way to help? Filton’s Best Teacher: We’re looking for a teacher who really inspires the children and makes school both fun and a great place to learn. Filton’s Best Volunteer: Is there someone in Filton who does a lot of work without any financial reward, with the motivation purely to make the community better? Filton’s Best Young Person: Is there someone aged 5-18 who has achieved a lot, maybe against the odds, or who does a lot more than the average young person for their family or community? Email us at richard@filtonvoice.co.uk with up to 150 words on why this person should be nominated. Or write c/o 49 Dunkeld Avenue, Filton Park, Bristol BS34 7RQ. Please check the nominated person is happy to have publicity in Filtonvoice and in the case of the young person, please check with parents or guardian. Nominees must live in Filton or, in the case of shopkeepr, teacher and volunteer, work in Filton. 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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E: richard@filtonvoice.co.uk

May, 2013

filtonvoice

www.filtonvoice.co.uk

Thought for the month Filton and St Vincent’s in Southmead

with Father Tom Finnegan, parish priest of St Teresa’s in

Well, miracles do happen! As I write this thought for the month, the sun is shining, it’s relatively warm outside, I am contemplating putting some shorts on and my favourite cherry tree in the garden is in full blossom! The miracle being, it’s a Bank Holiday Monday! We are so used to having wet, cold and miserable Bank Holidays, having one like this

is a boost to the system. I have already been invited to two BBQs today, and you know what? I think I will go to both. A bit of sunshine does us all the world of good and makes everyone feel better. I am at present looking forward to a great deal of sunshine. I am going on an unexpected journey to the Holy Land or Israel at it is known today. A colleague of mine organised a trip for his parish, but had to pull out because of medical reasons. He has asked me to take his place. So for ten days I will be enjoying almost guaranteed wall

to wall sunshine in the Middle Near East. We are not going for the sun though, I hasten to add. We are going on pilgrimage. A pilgrimage is a special journey to enrich the mind, body and soul. The Holy Land has been a place of pilgrimage for three major faiths of the world. It is the ancient and modern homeland of the Jewish people. It is there that a Jewish man called Jesus lived and preached and founded the Christian Church over two thousand years ago. It is also the home of the

Al-Aqsa Mosque, the third holiest shrine of Islam. We go to learn more about the origins of our faith and to understand why this Holy Land is so special and also sadly why so troubled. Whilst there, we will visit ancient sites of significance to the faiths mentioned above, but also we will visit refugee camps and distribute some aid to people displaced by conflict and war. Deep in my heart, there will be a constant prayer for reconciliation and that the ‘sunshine’ of peace will break out in this Holy Land.

News

Bid to give hunger the push by Rebecca Day

Volunteers helping out those in need came together last month in a triumphant push against hunger in Britain. On Tuesday, April 9, the Filton-based North Bristol Foodbank team pushed a trolley from Horfield Baptist Church on Gloucester Road to Orchard School in Horfield, pictured The Trolley Push was part of Trussell Trust’s UK-wide campaign to put an end to food poverty. North Bristol was one of the 50 locations “Phil the Trolley” visited nationwide. Over the last seven months, the local foodbank has fed more than 600 clients; many of whom are children. Stewart North, the founder of the North Bristol Foodbank, believes that reliance on foodbanks is going to grow

over the next three to five years because of changes to the welfare system. He said: “It's important to keep raising the profile of foodbanks through fundraising across schools, businesses and churches. We want local communities to come together, helping each other out in creative ways.” Stewart, alongside Tony

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Matthews, set up the North Bristol Foodbank in response to the developing food crisis. The rising cost of food combined with static incomes, high unemployment and changes to benefits, have forced many into a situation where they cannot afford to eat. Tony said: “We wish a foodbank wasn’t necessary. However, until things change

we'll be encouraging the community to help us in order to meet people’s needs.” Joining the Trolley Push in his bright red trousers was Bristol Mayor, George Ferguson. He said: “I feel very strongly we should all be good neighbours by making sure people are properly fed. I am determined to make Bristol not just a prosperous city, but a fairer one too by distributing wealth more evenly. “I am proud of the people who have rallied around today, and long may they continue to help out those in need.” Around 300 additional foodbanks are set to open nationwide over the coming months, with two new outlets opening in Southmead and Lockleaze in May. To find out more about what you can do to help, visit north bristol.foodbank.org.uk

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Advertising feature

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May, 2013

A new era in sportswear... Bristol Rugby are delighted to announced a ground-breaking deal which will see the international sportswear brand ZARX Sports become the official supplier of first team kit and replica merchandise for the club. The agreement – which begins at the start of the 2013/14 season – sees ZARX Sports branding on all team apparel, training wear and equipment. ZARX Sports have also agreed a deal to supply the awardwinning Bristol Rugby Community Foundation with branded apparel and merchandise. To mark the 125th anniversary, Bristol Rugby will unveil a new, commemorative home and away strip ahead of next season, as well as a line of limited edition merchandise and accessories. “This is an ideal partnership for both parties,” said CEO Steve Gorvett. “Bristol Rugby and ZARX Sports are companies with similar ambitions to grow and achieve success.

Steve Gorvett, chief executive of Bristol Rugby, left, with Brad George, managing director of ZARX Sports “The Club and ZARX have undergone a detailed process to plan, design and produce a home and away strip which is symbolic of Bristol’s values and celebrates this important anniversary.” Brad George, director of ZARX Sports, added: “We are delighted to be partnering and being the official on-field and off-field apparel supplier for the 2013/2014 season. “Our international head office

is in Bristol and we were keen to work with the local professional club. Bristol Rugby are a fantastic club with a great heritage, superb fan base and ambition to be playing in the Aviva Premiership. “We’re excited by this partnership and working alongside the club in the future. Bristol have traditionally been one of the powerhouses of British rugby and deserve apparel that fits this status. We look forward to the season ahead.” ZARX Sports is a rugby team wear and sports equipment specialist with its HQ in Bristol which aims to make a big difference to the sporting world. Officially launched in 2013, the brand and concept has been alive and in development since 2011. Brad George, managing director, added: “Our aim is to have a sports brand that competes and meets all of the needs of our clients. We have combined our core experience of dealing with sales, designs, manufacturing,

quality control and delivery with a team of trusted and experienced staff who all reflect our aims and beliefs in how to do business. We have dealt with the biggest brands on the planet and understand the flaws they have when it comes to dealing with the clubs’ and fans’ expectations. We are confident everyone from a local club through to professional teams and its supporters will see a notable difference in the quality, design, technical innovation and service ZARX Sports provide. We have spent many years in the field coupled with valuable research which stands us above the crowd. We have some major deals in the pipeline so watch this space” ZARX Sport HQ is in Bristol with sales staff based around the world in countries such as France, Italy, Japan, USA, New Zealand and Australia. For more information on ZARX Sports, please visit the website at www.zarxsports.com.

To advertise, contact Richard on 0777 555 0607, Emma on 0771 577 0448 or Wendy on 0771 577 0242. Email: adverts@filtonvoice.co.uk

May, 2013

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Comment

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My great escape on night of bombing

After the funeral of Margaret Thatcher, columnist Doug Daniels describes how a snap decision on the night an assassination attempt was made on her life may have saved him Margaret’s Thatcher’s recent passing brings back vivid memories of occasions when I many have been in her presence or close vicinity. There was one occasion which I will never forget. Attending the Conservative Conference at Brighton in 1984 I was walking along the Promenade with a colleague when we decided to go to the Grand Hotel where we knew that the Iron Lady was based, along with many of her fellow Cabinet Ministers. It was a pleasant evening, perfect for a stroll by the sea. It was obvious when we arrived at the entrance that the lounges were full to capacity. Members of Parliament, photographers and representatives from TV, radio and the Press. A burly police officer at the entrance questioned

our intentions to attend. We offered him a sweet that he gladly accepted whilst we pondered for a while what to do. We could hardly have entered so we decided to walk on by. The sea air, and the sunset, seemed far better than being stuffed in the huge reception area. We would have stood there idly watching,

glass in hand probably. There were far better things to do. After our pleasant walk we returned to our respective accommodation a little further along the way. Peace, tranquillity - a much better way to spend an evening was our chosen activity. As I stood by my bedroom window watching passers-by I was shaken by a huge explosion. Windows rattled; along with the doors. Some were screaming as they ran down the road. Many with blood on their faces. It was a scene straight from Hell! As I later discovered it had been an attempt to assassinate the Prime Minister in her bedroom. It sparingly failed to do so but brought fatalities and carnage to that otherwise purposeful scene in the lounge of the Grand Hotel. A lounge that we were

contemplating entering but decided not to do so. Characteristically and hugely bravely the Iron Lady visited all who had been committed to hospital. And characteristically the conference continued but greatly subdued. Her attendance in the closing moments of the conference drew the applause of everyone. Many will bear the scars of that devastating attack. But for the grace of God so would myself and my colleague. We turned away at the crucial moment and thankfully saved our lives.

“As I stood by my bedroom window watching passers-by I was shaken by a huge explosion.”

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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)

Elm Park ‘circus’

We are sorry that someone is worried that social housing on the police station site at Elm Park will be disruptive to St. Andrew’s Church. In fact, St. Andrew’s welcomes such provision, as witnessed by the unanimous vote at the Church’s AGM. Naturally, we reserve the right to comment on final plans when these become available. Pauline Hayman Church Council Secretary

Read the signs

I use the stretch of the A 38 quite often in the middle of the day. 99% of other drivers avoid driving in the Bus Lane when it is not operating between 10am and 3.30pm. Do the drivers read the several signs showing the operating hours? OR do they not understand their meaning ? Keith Isherwood Somerset Avenue, Yate

Clinic saved

I am pleased that the Shields Avenue clinic will stay open. However I am very concerned will the parking issue. There is a small carpark to the rear, yet staff and patients double park along Shields Avenue. If more services for the public are brought to the clinic, it would be in residents’ and patients’ best interests to have a larger car park. Kirsten Gooding l It is a shame there is not the funding available to use the police station site to turn into our own hub style building, as the

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plot of land there would provide a bigger car park. I agree with Kirsten, Shield Road does get far too congested especially at school drop off or collection time. I always try to walk if I have an appointment there but then the other issue can be how busy the wait on clinics and you can never fit all of the buggies in the building. The clinic is far from ideal for the size of our community but in saying that I’d still much prefer to go there than head all the way up to Patchway. Samantha Louise Radford

Filton landlords

The community is being killed, slowly strangled by student lets!!!! Why can’t someone on the council bring this to the attention of the Government? Is it really out of anyone’s league to do so? Is there anybody who will help the residents to save the community? Kirstie Barnes l As much as I agree with you Kirstie we have to accept the fact is UWE is so close to us that it makes the area attractive to student lets. It has changed Filton from a family place to a mix of family and student. Pete Holcombe l As a council we have changed policy to a degree to allow us to challenge house conversions after several years of trying to stop it under current rules. The Government are at the same time making it more difficult for us by changing planning law in a way that doesn’t help us at all. Cllr Roger Hutchinson

May, 2013

l Kirstie, while my sentiments are absolutely with you (endless cycle of students et al next door with no stake in the community etc), core planning policy does come from Westminster not the local council. If the council do something that is not aligned they will lose an appeal and have costs awarded against them. The starting point is your MP, not the council. One of the “benefits” of becoming “a nation of small landlords” three decades back. Sean Walsh l Kirstie is right about the number of students far outweighing the families in our community and taking over. I realise that they aren’t all bad but they have no vested interest in the area as they will be gone after a relatively short period. It seems that more and more the community is adapting and bending to make the environment benefit them with more and more takeaways appearing. With students come late night parties, rubbish left to accumulate because it isn’t put out, and in some cases illegal activities. How many of us have gone to Millennium with the kids to find groups of drinking students making a nuisance of themselves and intimidating families into leaving. Something does need to be done to limit the numbers allowed in one area. Or at least make it easy for residents to contact the landlords directly to complain about bad students in their houses, perhaps then they will be more choosy about who they let it. Claire Pearson-Now Troote

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Letters and opinions l We have lived here for more than 50 years and lately the whole area has gone downhill bigtime! Five out of 10 houses opposite us are student lets. It’s not only the school that suffers, but it brings other problems like parking (4/5 cars per house), litter (takeaway rubbish strewn about), overflowing bins, unkempt gardens, washing hanging up in windows ... I could go on. Even the shops down by the Bulldog, 5 out of 10 are takeaways! And we are expected to live with it. We agree with Kirstie Barnes, it’s totally unacceptable. Pat and Brian Smith

On Facebook, a Filton resident has posted images of these two vans parked on the pavement outside Filton Hill School. This has been a constant safety worry at Filton Hill and other schools for some time now. What do you think? Email us with your views.

l I agree with Kirstie, Claire et all! The Conygre end of Filton is just as bad with so many private lets, mainly students - but not all. The students have not got any interest in their local community as most of them are just passing through. The area has been going downhill for years and looks a mess. Most families

don’t even consider buying a property here any more so it will only get worse. There is no longer a general sense of pride or community in the area which is

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very sad. Apparently the council are not able to do anything so we really do need to get rid of this government as soon as we can. The last lot were no better

either so perhaps it is time for a complete change.......make sure think about which box you tick at the next election. Fran Read

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News

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May, 2013

Wartime in Filton and evocative memories of family life The childhood stories of growing up in wartime Filton have been turned into a new book by author John O’Neill. John, who now lives in Cheltenham, was brought up in Delphine, a lodging house on Gloucester Road North (near the Springfield Home) and the book , Mum is in Charge, tells the stories of Filton in the war years and the many colourful characters who passed through the community and the life of the family. These include the daytime Blitz on Filton Airfield, school days and also an encounter with a ghost. The book describes the joys and difficulties of typical family life and how, at the centre of everything, was ‘mum’. In the book he acknowledges “the family of Mum, Brothers Charles, George and Sister Eileen, being the topmost advisors in earlier years. Unfortunately all are now deceased and not able to enjoy the result of my final efforts.” John himself worked in broadcasting, including spells with Granada and Rank and following his retirement in 1989 he has been deeply involved in many charitable projects. He has also co-written songs with singer/composer David Capri, including one based on Mum is in Charge.

Do you have wartime memories of life in Filton? Share them with all our readers ... just send your recollections by email or post to the addresses printed on Page 14

About John

John was born in India in 1929 into a military family of four children. His father posted to Malta during 1932; as a consequence John had the privilege of experiencing childhood on such a wonderful island. The family evacuated back to England in late 1937. In 1938 his father was invalided from the Army. During resettlement the family had four moves within 12 months resulting in an adverse effect on his education. John however achieved a scholarship to Chipping Sodbury Grammar School in 1940. After a radio engineering apprenticeship, his career was in the radio and television Industry, with senior managerial appointments in Rank Organisation, Granada, PYE and Philips. Following corporate retirement in 1989, he devoted his life to charitable fund raising projects. He formed two companies in organising celebrity/ amateur golf events, the first being ‘Gemini Classics’ in co-operation with a past business colleague Roger Dickinson and ex Ryder Cup player Peter Dawson. Then a second company ‘Celebrity Masters Tournaments’ with entertainer, Jerry Stevens, serving as joint managing directors. John was on the first fundraising committee of the Prince’s Trust in 1975 Appointed as president of the Radio and Television Industries Club in 1989 he is now honoured as a Companion. He is also honoured as a Companion of the renowned entertainer’s organisation, the “Grand Order of Water Rats”. He now lives the Cotswolds with his wife Diane. Over the past four years he has co-written a number of lyrics, with singer/composer David Capri. He has two daughters, Donna and Kathryn.

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About the book

The story ‘Mum is in Charge’ is based on true events, covering the period 1939 to 1945, with some flashbacks to earlier years. It is related by the youngest child of the family, with a host of interesting, exciting, challenging moments. There is a close encounter with death during the daytime blitz on the Bristol Aero Plane works at Filton, the controversial friendship with an old lady ghost, sadness, hardships including school bullying, which developed into what all families need, a bonding as a single unit. The making of a few close school friends, which grew into a happy camaraderie and still enjoyed. The experiences of a young infatuation and romances. There are veiled secrets which are for the first time revealed after seven decades, and brings into play emotional heart searching. It is Mum who had the most common sense in the family and turned all types of situations into acceptable realities, resulting in ‘Mum is in Charge’.

Chapter One Victory Celebrations

Linda, an eighteen-year-old girl was a resident part-time helper at our Guesthouse named ‘Delphine.’ Unfortunately her amorous antics with some of our Lodgers met with strong disapproval from Mum. As a result in autumn 1944, the girl had to leave. Mum would not explain what had finally happened to end her service so suddenly. It was difficult for me to understand or judge her decision. Nevertheless I did chip in with my pennyworth and told her that I thought the action was too harsh and I did not agree. Her response shook me, “When you are old enough,” then pointing a finger at the head, “you might understand.” I was annoyed at her observation and it also hurt me. To avoid any confrontation I swiftly left the room thinking, ‘So at 15, nearly 16 I am still only a boy; am I? If only she knew!’ What it meant I did not know and put it down to a teenage foible; but when are we teenagers ever right? I called my dog Rover to come with me. As ever it is a comforting feeling to have my dog alongside wagging his tail, particularly when I am upset, or could it be a childish manner? I realised the minor altercation must have hurt Mum and that was the last thing I would want to have happened. I explained to Rover, perhaps I should not have been too surprised at Mum’s action, as I could remember a young man sneaking out of Linda’s room late one night and he had his pyjamas on, well at least the trousers. I asked Rover, “What do you think of that?” He just rolled over, gazed at me and then put his paws over his ears. ‘Dogs are so clever.’ I thought. While I hated myself for getting annoyed with Mum, I lived with it. Not having a Dad to turn to during the past three years caused me considerable and complex anxieties.

Local Gloucestershire author John O’Neill launched a new BOOK March 2013 A story based on true events in and around FILTON during World War 2. Order at Amazon, Waterstones, o r b ook shops ISBN number 978 1 84963 288 1 For a signed copy by the Author order direct from John at “Crows Nest” Upper Dowdeswell. Glos: GL54 4LT Cheuqes only please £8.99 includes includes contribution to p&p

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Filton schools

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them observe how the children use phonics in their reading. Comments from parents: “This provided a useful insight into the world of phonemes in a fun and engaging way!” “A wonderful experience to see the children interact with their teachers and the respect that they have for each other.” “Its amazing how much they have learnt in a few months.” “It makes you want to go back to school!”

St Teresa’s Primary

Shield Road Primary School We have been holding Reception

Reading workshops for parents. Reception teacher Mrs Lawton and her Early Years team have been holding the successful workshops with parents to help

Petcare with Michael Parry of Vets4Pets in Filton Protect against Kennel Cough Kennel Cough is a highly contagious disease affecting dogs of all ages. Although, as the name suggests, this cough is often picked up when dogs stay in boarding kennels, they are just as likely to catch it whenever they are close to other dogs, so at training classes, playing in the park or out on walks. As the holiday season approaches it is important to remember that if your pet is due to stay in kennels this year, many boarding kennels won’t accept your dog unless they have been vaccinated a couple of weeks before they visit. Michael, Vet and Practice Partner at Filton Vets4Pets says “ I really do recommend protecting your pet against this nasty disease.” For a limited time only Filton Vets4Pets are offering 15% off Kennel Cough Vaccinations, using the voucher overleaf. Book an appointment today!

The football team took part in a thrilling match against St. Peter & St Paul. The final result was 2-2. Spectators were treated to witnessing some fantastic

May, 2013

passing skills and team work. Tommy scored a goal which was beautifully set up by Isaiah and Nevil scored another cracking goal. Well done!

Abbeywood Community School

Ladies Fashion Show – Saturday 20 April 2013 I’m always a bit nervous when planning a completely new event and this was no exception especially as the company “Travelling Trends” said we had to sell a minimum of 80 adult tickets in order for them to travel up from Surrey. However, we needn’t have worried as we sold over double this amount and had to declare the event a sellout with no tickets available on the day! After setting up from noon, doors opened at 2.00 pm with the fashion show due to start at 2.30 pm but, due to an horrific accident on the M4, Travelling Trends were delayed and the show started nearly an hour

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May, 2013

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Filton schools

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During a successful focus day event Year 9 students at Abbeywood Community School were able to work with the artist Rachel Gornall to produce two pieces of artwork currently displayed in Mrs Mee’s office in school. Rachel’s work focuses on colour and light and students were able to see her sketchbooks, final art work and ask any questions. Students were then challenged to produce their own work.

late. The event could have gone pear-shaped but, in fact, there wasn’t a problem as there were several stalls to browse plus a chance to have a glass of wine and relax at the bar before the show started. When Travelling Trends finally arrived there was a big rush of help to get their van unloaded and sort the rails of

clothes and accessories. All this was frantically going on in the hall behind closed doors whilst everyone else was relaxing and having a good time in the Atrium. Just as well we have brilliant facilities at school! Everyone then took their seats (great views wherever you were because of the tiered seating).

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The show was professionally compered, with a great music soundtrack and great models – 2 from Travelling Trends and 4 very brave volunteer members of Abbeywood school staff. In the hall everyone was relaxed and enjoying the show but in the drama studio the atmosphere was frantic with the models only having a very short time to change between outfits (helped along by a glass or two of wine)! After the show, there was time to browse the rails, try on and buy what you wanted at prices between 30% – 80% off of normal high street/designer prices. The event raised nearly £750, bringing the total raised since September to just short of £5,000 which is a great result for a very small team of volunteers. Thank you to everyone who came along. I’m glad I advertised the event in the Filton Voice as a lot of people who bought tickets said that this is where they saw the event details. Jeanne Clements, FACS Secretary/Event Organiser

Leisure boost for students Secondary school pupils in Filton

cold soon be benefiting from a new leisure scheme. Active Card membership has been piloted at three schools in Yate and if this proves successful the scheme will be extended to all secondary schools in South Gloucestershire. ‘Active Schools’ is an innovative new partnership between South Gloucestershire Council and Circadian Trust, the charitable organisation which operates leisure centres on behalf of the council. Students involved in this pilot will receive membership to all libraries in South Gloucestershire and membership to ‘Pay to Play’ at all Active leisure centres in the district. Other benefits include a regular newsletter and special offers, information on local sports and activities taking place in the South Gloucestershire area.

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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.

Filton Sports and Leisure Centre Activities

Street lights switch-off

There will be consultation on proposals to convert streetlights to part night operation in Filton. During 2013 South Glos will be extending its ‘part-night’ lighting scheme throughout the area. Part-night operation involves switching selected street lights off, where it is safe to do so, between midnight and 5:00 am GMT. During July 2013 streetlights in Filton are programmed to be converted to a part night basis. Residents are invited to comment on the specific plans for this area but the council is not inviting comments on the council’s part night lighting policy overall. You can comment online at www.southglos.gov.uk/ partnightlighting or write to FREEPOST RRZE-CTRG-TJLJ, South Gloucestershire Council, Part Night Light Survey, Council Offices, Badminton Road, Yate, BS37 5AF. You can email consultation@ southglos.gov.uk

Town Council meetings May 21st, 7.30pm Finance Committee Pavilion (changed from 14th) 21st, 7.00pm Planning Committee Small Meeting Room 28th, 7.30pm Full Council Meeting and annual parish assembly Pavilion

June – August 2013 Swimming Lesson rebooking starts 3rd June RLSS Lifeguard Course Monday 15th July – Sunday 21st July 2013 May Half Term Crash Course

Community garden

With the arrival of better weather, excellent progress is being made now on our community garden project behind the leisure centre and Ratepayers Arms. Thanks to the sterling efforts of a number of residents - and local businesses - we have been out digging and planting over the past few weeks. If you drive past the garden on the ring road, you will see some of the flower beds already looking nice. There were concerns that the roadworks due to start at the top of the ring road may have an impact on the garden but we can assure everyone that this is not the case. We hope to continue the good work and have some more exciting news in the next month. Watch this space!

Filton Sports & Leisure Centre Swim School Re-booking dates Category

Re-booking Dates

A full list of meetings can be found on our website

For those staying in the same Class & Same Time

Mon 3rd June 9.30am – Sat 8th June @ 2.00pm

Filton Festival Sunday, July 14

For those moving up or changing Days

Sun 9th June 9.30am – Sat 15th June @ 2.00pm

For New Customers

Sunday 16th June from 9.30am

Filton Town Council is currently in the process of organising this year’s Filton Community Festival, to be held on Sunday, July 14th. The Festival is a nonprofit making event and funds are provided by Filton Town Council, together with help from other local sponsors. If you would like to be involved in this year’s Festival please contact Tasha on 01454 866698 or email tasha.gould@ filtontowncouncil.gov.uk

May Half Term Crash Courses available. Tuesday 28th May – Friday 31st May (4 day course) Pre-school & Tadpoles (Stage one) £19.20

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION Please call our Main Reception on 01454 866686 Or you can email our Swim Coordinators at swimming@filtontowncouncil.gov.uk

Tuesday 28th May to Friday 31st May Small Pool 9.00 9.30am Preschool 9.30 10.00am Tadpoles (Stage One) 10.00 -10.30am Tadpoles (Stages One) 10.30 – 11.00 Tadpoles (Stages One) Four Days Course £19.20, term time only.

Regular activities Mondays Dinky Dolphins, baby and preschool swimming session, games music and play, 9.30am-10.30am. These sessions are first come, first served. £3.70 for 1 adults and up to two children, Filton Sports and Leisure Centre Tuesdays Aqua fit Tuesdays, 9.45 – 10.30am & 8.00 - 8.45pm, with a 15-minute swimdown afterwards, cost £4 a session, class suitable for non swimmers, participants must be 16 yrs and over, Filton Sports and Leisure Centre Thursdays Aqua circuits 10am - 11am £4.00 Filton Sports and Leisure Centre, term time only Fridays Dinky Dolphins, baby and preschool swimming session, games music and play, 10am-11am. These sessions are first come, first served. £3.70 for 1 adults and up to two children, Filton Sports and Leisure Centre, term time only, Follow Us On: Facebook, Filton Sports And Leisure Centre or on Twitter @Filtonpool Call 01454 866686

• Contact the town council office Tel: 01454 866 698; Leisure Centre Tel: 01454 866686; or our website www.filtontowncouncil.gov.uk

MUGA nearer Springfields and the free-touse MUGA closer to the field? Yes this can be looked at as will all operational elements. How do we envisage the facility being used? The MUGA would be free to use 80% of the time for children and young people. We would have some bookable slots for tennis (times to be decided), the astro turf would be charged for but we intend to have some free community events.

Plans for our Multi-Use Games Area are progressing after a very positive meeting and presentation by manufacturers SMP on the product. Among the highlights are: - Low noise from balls hitting the fencing, tested and quieter than a passing car. - The company will work with us every step of the way. We have been accepted onto the Funding Doctor programme. They will only work with projects that they feel can achieve the final goals so this is really good news. Questions from public, Town Council staff and councillors included: What will be the opening times. We will open the same time as the leisure centre. How will the tennis posts operate?. They will be retractable into the ground and sit flush for safety. Maintenance? They will work with us every step of the

way and train the grounds staff. Will we install bins for potential increase of litter. Yes we will The plans shows the astroturf nearest the cycle track side. Can they be swapped round if needed, i.e astroturf

We are now proceeding with funding, and once we reach a level that can allow it to be built at £90,000 we will decide if we continue to try and reach the ultimate goal of £120,000; it is difficult to put a time scale on this it may take a year, it may take more. Once we are at a stage where it can be built we will produce final blueprints and present to the public before construction starts.

Filton Sports & Leisure Centre Bank Holiday Discounted Swim Monday 27th May 2013

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For further information please contact: kelly.pillinger@filtontowncouncil.gov.uk Or call our Reception on: 01454 866686

T: 0777 555 0607

News

Apprenticeship pays off for Josh

An employee who began his career with an apprenticeship is stepping up the ladder and has recently started a new role with the organisation he trained with. Josh Herbert, aged 24 from Filton worked in the retail industry for 5 years after leaving university but decided he wanted a change of direction and to pursue his passion for IT. He took a a Level 3 Apprenticeship in IT at South Gloucestershire and Stroud College then gained employment with Computerworld, a Yate based IT company. Josh’s role was on the help desk which involved support and troubleshooting for customers. After completing his qualification in November 2012, Josh applied for a full-time position with Computerworld and was offered the job as a Helpdesk Engineer. He is now a pre-sales engineer. Josh said: “The apprenticeship was a fantastic opportunity.” The organisation was so pleased with Josh that they are now recruiting for their next apprentice. Director David Wynn said: “Josh was so eager to learn ... we are now looking for our next Josh!” David and Josh are pictured.

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May, 2013

Students create pop art mural for Filton Library A vibrant new mural has been unveiled at Filton Library which was created by Year 10 students from Abbeywood Community School alongside professional designer Kate Parsons. The artwork is featured in the library’s young adult area and will count towards the students’ GCSE coursework. It was unveiled on Monday 15 April by Cllr Ian Boulton, Vice Chairman of South Gloucestershire Council, at a special preview event for students, families and library users. The Year 10 students worked alongside arts educator Kate to explore graphic design and visual communication to capture what the library means to them and share this with visitors to the library. Together they have produced a stunning mural which draws on 1960s pop art and contemporary references. Kate used influences from the students’ work to create a piece that encapsulates all of their ideas in a vibrant and colourful artwork. Explosions and flowing ribbons were common themes among the young people’s work, reflecting both the thrill of discovering something new at the library and the chance to immerse yourself in the resources on offer. The students hope that the artwork will be enjoyed by all who visit the library and encourage other young people to use the young adult area. Cllr Boulton said: “This

Pictured left to right: Artist Kate Parsons, Judith Mee, Associate Head of Abbeywood Community School, Councillor Ian Boulton, Vice Chairman of South Gloucestershire Council, and Abbeywood Community School students Elly Summerhayes and Elly Gapper. fantastic creative assignment enabled young people to engage with a professional designer and their local library to produce this exciting artwork. “The finished mural will provide a bright and colourful display in the young adult area of the recently refurbished Filton library for years to come.” Judith Mee, Associate Headteacher at Abbeywood Community School, said: “I am

very grateful to Filton Library for inviting Abbeywood Community School to showcase work by some of our talented artists. “The project has given the students a wonderful opportunity to be involved in a community project that has forged a close link between the library and our school. “The students have learnt so much from working with a professional artist.”

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To advertise, contact Richard on 0777 555 0607, Emma on 0771 577 0448 or Wendy on 0771 577 0242. Email: adverts@filtonvoice.co.uk

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May, 2013

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

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News

filtonvoice

May, 2013

Champion cadets visit Westminster

MP moves his base to Bradley Stoke’s Willow Brook Centre

Filton MP Jack Lopresti has moved his local base to The Willow Brook Centre in the Bradley Stoke Town centre. He said: “I’ve always wanted to have my local base here. It’s at the heart of the Bradley Stoke community and fairly central to the whole constituency. There are excellent public transport links. The 74 and 13 buses stop outside. There is plenty of parking and other local amenities. ’ “I represent and work for the people of Filton and Bradley Stoke, as well as the communities of Almondsbury, Downend, Easter Compton, Frenchay, Hallen, Hambrook, Little Stoke, Patchway, Pilning, Severn Beach, Staple Hill, Stoke Gifford, Stoke Lodge, Stoke Park

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and Winterbourne. I hold weekly Surgeries in a different part of the constituency every week and my office is open 9-5. “You do not need an appointment to come and see me or my team at the Willowbrook and Liz, the office manager and Mike, our caseworker, will be happy to help.” Manager of the Willow Brook Centre, Scott Lahive, said: “We’re very pleased that Jack and his team will be based here. “They will make a great addition to the centre and it will be appreciated by the local community.”

Cadets from 2152 (North Bristol) Squadron were welcomed to Parliament by Jack Lopresti ,the MP for Filton and Bradley Stoke. The Squadron, based in Filton, were invited to Westminster by Jack to celebrate after their Drill team won the National Drill Championship at RAF Halton in November last year. The Cadets were treated to a tour of the Houses of Parliament and views of the terrace before departing for a trip to RAF Hendon. Mr Lopresti said: “It was a real pleasure to host 2152 Squadron ATC at the Houses of Parliament. All the Cadets looked

very smart indeed and I can see why they were the deserved winners of the National Drill Championship. “Many congratulations to them all again.” Flt Lt Jim Brimble, the Officer Commanding for 2152 (N. Bristol) Sqn ATC said: “The cadets found the morning fascinating and enjoyable. “They all appreciated the effort made in hosting them and learning more about the role of both Houses of Parliament. “An amazing experience, being able to talk to our local MP in such relaxed, yet historic surroundings.”

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 www.abbeywoodschool.com/Partnerships/Facilities-for-the-community/

To advertise, contact Richard on 0777 555 0607, Emma on 0771 577 0448 or Wendy on 0771 577 0242. Email: adverts@filtonvoice.co.uk

May, 2013

News

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Cadets from 2152 (North Bristol) Squadron at Parliament with MP Jack Lopresti

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

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New worker to serve Filton

Arts with Deborah Harvey Beth Orton at St.George’s, Bristol, Monday 15th April 2013 I didn’t much feel like going to a gig, being thick with a cold and arthritic, but the lure of St George’s – surely one of the finest concert venues in the country – and Beth Orton, who is returning to touring after a decade in which she got married and started a family, proved too much to resist. Having first come to prominence through her collaborations with William Orbit and the Chemical Brothers and then her own ambient 90s folktronica, these days there’s a somewhat more traditional feel to Beth Orton’s music. What hasn’t changed, however, is the sense of longing that pervades so many of her songs, a feeling or yearning for a better way of being, now lost, or

of being haunted by the memory or dream of a time and a place where life was clearer and more whole. This feeling moves gracefully through her new album Sugaring Season, a beautiful suite of songs, which, like all good albums, seems to sound better each time you hear it. She played several of its songs at St George’s, including Call Me The Breeze, Something More Beautiful, Magpie, and Poison Tree, a particularly compelling take on the poem by William Blake from Songs of Innocence and Experience. For die-hard fans, there were earlier songs too: She Cries Your Name, Someone’s Daughter, Central Reservation, Feel To Believe, and Stolen Car to name a few. Whether it was the rosy gold warmth of the venue’s decor or the transcendent music, I felt cocooned in a mellifluous

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beauty that negated even the hardness of the pews in the Gallery. Rather more effective than huddling on the settee with a Lemsip, I feel.

Deborah Harvey is a Filton poet and author. Awards night: Thirty unsung heroes and their families attended the annual Chair’s Community Awards at the BAWA venue in Filton last month. The annual Chair’s Community Awards recognise the outstanding contribution South Gloucestershire residents make to their local communities. These people give up their time freely to help others and bring our communities together, and were rewarded at a special ceremony attended by VIPs.

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Southern Brooks Community Partnership has welcomed the arrival of new Community Organisers, including one dedicated to Filton. Community Organisers is an initiative contracted by the Office of Civil Society to Locality, a national network of communities ambitious for change. Locality is a new organisation which employs the Community Organisers and are responsible for delivering the contract. Southern Brooks Community Partnership first applied to “host” Community Organisers in 2011. The organisation has been accepted to the 8th round, and now has their team in place. While they are all based at Southern Brooks we are grateful to our partners who are supporting the work of the organisers in local communities. • Letty Anderton, pictured above, will focus on Filton • Andrew McCarthy will work in Yate supported by the CVS. • Cecilia Karlsson and Daahir Mohamed will work with Chase & Kingsforest at Kingsmeadow flat in Kingswood. • Chris Jenner will cover Patchway A Southern Brooks spokeperson said: “The Community Organisers Programme is about catalysing community action at a neighbourhood level “igniting the impulse to act”. “Community Organisers are well-trained and committed individuals who will work closely with communities to identify local leaders, projects and opportunities that the community then acts on. It aims to build self reliance and confidence in communities. “The Programme will provide one year of paid training placements for 500 individuals wanting to gain experience and qualifications in Community Organising and this team will recruit 4,500 volunteers between them. “The Organisers will learn to listen through a programme called Root Solution Listening Matters and each will listen to 500 local people and then build networks and identify project ideas.

To advertise, contact Richard on 0777 555 0607, Emma on 0771 577 0448 or Wendy on 0771 577 0242. Email: adverts@filtonvoice.co.uk

May, 2013

filtonvoice Filton planning, April

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Health Matters

with Dr Terry Kemple Horfield Health Centre New to Bristol? You may be new to Bristol or unfamiliar with recent changes in our National Health Service (NHS). This is a guide about how to use the NHS Most services in the NHS are FREE. You may have to pay a fee for prescriptions, dental services or optometrists. Google NHS Prescription Costs for details. Make sure you are registered with a local general practitioner (GP) eg Horfield Health Centre. GPs are trained to deal with most health problems or can refer you to see a specialist at a hospital. When can you see your GP? Most GPs work 8.30am to 6.30pm Monday to Friday and most have some extended hours later in the evening or on Saturday mornings. If you have an urgent problem you should be seen the same day. If it’s not urgent you should make a convenient appointment. Many GPs also have scheduled telephone appointments, and an email consultation service. At Horfield we like you to see the same doctor (your personal GP) rather than different doctors.

Applications l 46 Tenth Avenue, Filton Erection of two storey side and single storey rear extensions to provide additional living accommodation. l 29 Glebelands Road Filton Erection of two storey and single storey rear extension to form additional living accommodation. l Filton S G S, Filton Avenue The internal and external refurbishment of an existing teaching block including the provision of replacement windows, doors and roof lights, soffit and fascia, roof covering, and the replacement of external fire escape stairs with an enclosed stair extension. l 10 Pine Grove Filton Application for Certificate of Lawfulness for existing loft conversion and installation of side and rear dormers

extension to provide additional living accommodation Approve with Conditions l 1 Gayner Road Filton Works to pollard 6No. Lime trees to 9m, covered by Tree Preservation Order No. SGTPO 39/08 dated 9th July 2009. Approve with Conditions l 706 Southmead Road Filton Construction of new vehicular access onto Southmead Road. Erection of boundary wall 1.4m at highest point. Approve with Conditions l 15 Boverton Road Filton Erection of single storey side and rear extension to provide additional living accommodation Approve with Conditions

l 542 Filton Avenue Horfield Change of use from (Class A1) retail store to Children’s soft play area (Class D1) with ancillary cafe (Class A3) as defined by the Town and Country Planning (Use Classes) Order 1987 (as amended). Approve with Conditions l 7 The Mead Filton Erection of single storey rear and side extension to form additional living accommodation. Approve with Conditions l 46 Tenth Avenue Filton Erection of two storey side and single storey rear extensions to provide additional living accommodation Approve with Conditions

For more on planning, visit www.southglos.gov.uk

l 50 Fourth Avenue Filton Erection of single storey rear extension to form additional living accommodation.

What if you want to contact your GP at night or at the weekend? You can either phone your GP and you will be directed to the new 111 service and the Brisdoc Out of hours service. You will either get advice, be asked to attend their Urgent care Centre or visited at Home

l 14 Kenmore Drive Filton Erection of detached garage with office above.

How else can you get medical care in Bristol? • You can manage many minor ailments yourself - look at the NHS choices website for advice or ask a pharmacist • You can phone the NHS 111 service • You can attend a NHS Walk in Centre • You can attend the NHS Minor Injury Unit at Southmead Hospital You can attend a Hospital Emergency Department at Frenchay Hospital or the BRI

l Bristol Mail Centre Gloucester Road North Filton Installation of condenser base and compound.

What If you don’t speak English very well? We usually book you a double appointment (20 minutes) and use our telephone translation service. You can use an internet translation service to translate the text on our website into your own language You can find more details about most services on the Horfield Health Centre website. See our advert, Page 35

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l 9 Gayner Road Filton Demolition of existing garage. Erection of 2 no. dwellings with associated works (Re-submission of PT12/3367/F).

l 97 Station Road Filton Variation of condition 2 attached to planning permission PT12/4017/F to allow hours of operation between 0700 hours and 1800 hours Mondays to Fridays. l 87 Gloucester Road North Filton Variation of conditions 3 and 4 attached to planning permission PT12/3555/F to retain access from Gloucester Road North to no. 85 and allocate all parking to the area behind no. 87.

Decisions l 41 Bridgman Grove Filton Erection of two storey rear

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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May, 2013

Filton business of the month No pain, but plenty of gain

This month we meet Ian Willmott, who runs a chiropractic clinic in Filton Park. Originally from Cheltenham, Ian now treats aches and sporting injuries for people of all ages using a technique which reduces stress on the patients ... but leaves them free of pain

Name, age and how long you have been working in your current profession. Ian Willmott, 40. Practising since 2005 (though from my new clinic in Filton Park since August last year). Where are you from? Originally Cheltenham but moved to Bristol in 1999 Tell us a bit more about what you do and what the job entails. I’m a McTimoney Chiropractor. Married, with 2 children. I treat patients of all ages and with varying complaints including head aches, back pain, shoulder pain (including frozen shoulder), neck pain and sporting injuries. Youngest patient to date has been 6 weeks old and the oldest 83! What’s the best bit about the job? Very simple – seeing someone who has been in pain or unable to play the sport they love, be able to return to as normal a life as possible. Results are not merely scored on pain reduction, but also general quality of life. Improved quality of life comes in so many ways; for example after a number of treatments a patient may not be 100% pain free, but is now able to get out and walk the dog again, which for that particular individual is invaluable. The same can be said for avid gardeners or sports people who can once again enjoy their favourite hobbies or pastimes. Tell us what you offer to set yourselves apart from others. The McTimoney technique is very different from the stereotypical form of chiropractic which people associate with ‘bone crunching’ and the like. I view the body as a whole unit and therefore assess and look to treat the whole body, irrespective of where the point of pain is. More often than not, the site of the pain is a result of a tight muscle or joint complex being misaligned somewhere

else in the body. If the origin of the pain is not addressed first, the resulting complaint will never fully be fixed. The McTimoney technique is also very subtle which is why patients can be both very young and old. There is no anticipation of a sudden crack of the neck or back so the whole experience is very relaxed. I’m also trained in ‘Soft Tissue Release’ and ‘Muscle Energy Techniques’ which I integrate into my treatments to work on tight muscles and tendons. I am very interested in treating sports men and women and have trained in the biomechanics of sport which not only allows me to treat sport people in pain but also to help improve their sporting performance. This is especially true of golfers as I have just attended a conference at The Belfry hosted by the top personnel in Biomechanics, chiropractors and physiotherapists that work on the European Tour supporting the likes of Rory McIlroy. What are your plans for the future of the business? To keep welcoming and introducing as wide a variety of people to my clinic and hope they fully enjoy the experience. I will also continue to push further into the field of biomechanics in sport and look to affiliate myself with a local golf club and sports centre. I am a keen sportsman myself so can fully get on board with frustrated patients that simply want to get back out there, or that want help improving their performance. Anything else you want to say? Come and try McTimoney – it is a unique experience and I am offering free 15 minute taster sessions for anyone interested – just give me a call! Call: 07908 649609 Email: ian@bristolchiropractor.co.uk Web: www.bristolchiropractor.co.uk See our advert, Page 5

To advertise, contact Richard on 0777 555 0607, Emma on 0771 577 0448 or Wendy on 0771 577 0242. Email: adverts@filtonvoice.co.uk

May, 2013

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Comment ... Filton Airfield Our MP ‘lacks passion for industry’ Last month, Filton and Bradley Stoke MP Jack Lopresti said that there was a danger of talking down our local aerospace industry in the wake of the closure of Filton Airfield. Here, airfield campaigner and parish councillor Martin Farmer gives his response

When the Labour Government bought the Airbus A400M aircraft (instead of buying more “off the shelf” products from the USA), gave repayable launch funding support for the A380 super-jumbo and made aerospace research a priority, it understood the significant value of aerospace to the UK economy. It didn’t come as a surprise that Jack Lopresti’s article in Filton Voice (April) came across as someone on the outside, looking in who doesn’t understand importance of the industry. I can count at least two inaccuracies in his article and another which highlights a lack of passion for aerospace. Inaccuracy number 1: “Labour politicians cynically talking our industries down...”: A number of Labour councillors work in aerospace in Filton, either as engineers, manufacturing parts or selling the excellent products that are made here. To suggest we do not champion the industry on which the livelihoods of so many in the area depend shows a lack of knowledge and a complete misunderstanding. Inaccuracy number 2: “... Filton’s thriving aerospace industry”: This is a purely romantic, out of touch view that it’s “Filton’s” aerospace industry. Each of the Big Three at Filton (Airbus, Rolls-Royce, GKN Aerospace) are part of global aerospace companies with manufacturing sites throughout the world. What we do here, very successfully, should be

celebrated, but make no bones about it, why we are here is more of an accident of history than a conscious decision by the Big Three to locate to Filton. Lack of Passion: During a negotiation, you don’t concede at the first sign of pressure but this is what Mr Lopresti did as soon as pressure was brought to bear to develop the Airfield. It is being sold with little in return for aerospace. This reinforces in my mind that future MPs should come from members of society who are not career politicians but who have faced the challenges of working life and have a passion for the area they represent. The aerospace industry in Filton is successful, but there is never a time to sit back and relax, especially during uncertain times. Unions, local management and Labour councillors continue to work tirelessly to bring work to Filton. The key missing ingredient is a local MP with the enthusiasm and knowledge to actively engage and proactively work for Filton aerospace. It may be 2015 before we can put that right. Martin Farmer is a Labour Councillor for Cadbury Heath and has worked within the aerospace industry at Filton for over 30 years.

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May, 2013

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carefully. If you’re not sure – don’t open the door. If you are at all suspicious about a caller please ring us straight away on 101. 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 midday to 8pm Wednesday and Friday (closed 4.15-5pm). In an emergency, call 999. Otherwise, you can call us on 101 24/7.

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friends or family. Legitimate traders will always be happy to provide you with any information you ask for, so don’t be embarrassed to ask. Traders shouldn’t pressure you into letting them start work immediately – you’re entitled to a seven-day ‘cooling off’ period. If someone does call at your door, put the door chain on before opening up. Ask to see identification and check it

With the days becoming longer and hopefully the weather getting better, you might be thinking about getting some work done around the house. Please be aware that there are unscrupulous people who will take advantage and make off with your hard-earned cash. In April there was a national police week of action to tackle these ‘Rogue Traders’. They call door-to-door and may say you need more work done than is actually the case, will get you to pay up front and never complete the work or do the work to a completely inadequate standard and still charge the full amount. We took part, going out with Meals on Wheels deliveries to give doorstep crime prevention advice to vulnerable elderly people in their homes, pictured. If you do need work done, I’d advise getting quotes from tradespeople recommended by

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May, 2013

The sporting life

Local photographer Rikki Teml is keen to put the focus on our Filton sporting teams. Here is another selection of shots from recent games at Elm Park and Elm Park and also a couple of Aretians Rugby, close to Filton in Stoke Gifford. If you would like your club featured, contact Rikki.You can find his contact details and see more of his photography at www.rmtphotos.co.uk

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May, 2013

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News Golfer Paul wins on his former course Bristol

Golf Centre professional and former Filton Golf Club member Paul Ryder shared top spot with the Gloucestershire & Somerset PGA Chairman Andrew March from Brean on a tough day for scoring in the G&S PGA Medal at Filton Golf Club on April 3. Not one of the 28 players could match par in the strong breeze with the winners both carding 3 over par 73s. For Paul, it was his first win as a professional golfer The course at Filton was in great condition and set up well for a fair challenge for the pros. The wind however had other ideas and gradually increased in strength through the day making things tough. Paul was the first to hand in the winning score in his debut season as a professional. A club spokesman said: “Filton is a course Paul knows well as he grew up there and still plays the venue regularly, where he remains a very popular and much respected person. “His success is a deserved reflection of the dedication and hard work he put in throughout his many years at Filton and all at the club wish this popular player every success for the future.”

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Filton innovator creating the industry of the future

Eye-catching innovations were on show in Bristol at the first of 13 free events across the UK to inspire pioneers of the future to create their own jobs. Among the innovators was Silas Adekunle, pictured above, a UWE student from Filton, who is starting up a robotics company creating miniature robots you can control with your mobile. Innovations on show ranged from mobile apps improving your golf swing, to ultrasound waves enabling the sensation of touch in mid-air and miniature robots you can control with your mobile. The Bristol Creative Showcase was organised by 24-yearold Sam Fry, an enterprise consultant at the University of Bristol and regional ambassador for Virgin Media Pioneers. The event saw around 120 local, prospective entrepreneurs rub shoulders with creative, new business start-ups which

delivered two-minute pitches to the crowd at the Watershed in Bristol City Centre. With nearly one-in-four young people currently unemployed, Virgin Media Pioneers, a free, digital community connecting young, entrepreneurial talent, is running a series of showcases to prompt more bright sparks to act on their big ideas. The first event in Bristol on Tuesday night was a sell-out success. Virgin Media Pioneer Sam Fry said: “I think there are more opportunities than ever out there for young entrepreneurs and this is clear from the diverse and amazing new businesses which exhibited at the showcase.” “There aren’t many actual jobs around, but I see that as being all the more reason to try going it alone and setting up your own business. There is the appetite among people of all ages

to get creative and use the power of the internet to get started in business.” Sir Richard Branson, Pioneer-at-Large for Virgin Media Pioneers, said: “There is a huge amount we can do to unlock entrepreneurial potential and Virgin Media Pioneers is empowering young entrepreneurs to fulfil their dreams.” Organiser Sam founded a student newspaper while at university in Liverpool, organises the student groups Bristol Entrepreneurs, Bristol Social Enterprise and SIFE Bristol and is developing his latest venture, ARvoyant, a pre-visualization tool that uses mobile augmented reality to help plan physical projects, saving time and money. Details of the next regional event will be released on the Virgin Media Pioneers website, www.virginmediapioneers.com.

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

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News

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May, 2013

Paul and his team a cut above after 35 years of styling hair in Filton A popular Filton hairdresser is celebrating 35 years in the business with a refit of his salon. Paul Churchill, who runs Way-A-Head on Filton Avenue - at the junction with the ring road - says it has been a delight working in Filton for such a long period of time, with many of his clients becoming good friends over the years. The salon caters for young and old, with one regular now 99 years old. Paul shares the styling duties with Shelly Janes, who has been working with Paul for 27 years and Roxanne Ross who has been with Way-A-Head for two years. Paul said: “When I first started here, I didn’t think I would still be here after all this time. “I followed my father and grandfather into the hairdressing business. “It’s great working here - it’s a friendly salon and so many of our clients are just like good friends and they come back over and over again. “So after 35 years we have decided to give the place a bit of a makeover and we are very pleased with the results. “We try to offer competitive prices and we are seeing some good business, especially in the current climate.” Paul also has a separate part of the salon for men’s hair styling and Shelly and Roxanne have recently been developing

their skills in the popular hair extension techniques. They also offer discounts for students and sell the top of the range hair products which are only available through professional salons. Shelly said: “Paul is a brilliant boss and it’s great to work here at Way Ahead.” • For more information, visit www.wayaheadhair.co.uk or call on 0117 969 2701 or 0117 295 9644, which is a free number. Paul is pictured with Shelly and Roxanne, above, and outside the shop, right.

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

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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May, 2013

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News

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Oh yes they did raise £1,000!

Following their recent pantomime performances of “Sleeping Beauty”, Filton’s St Andrew’s Players presented cheques to Avon Riding for the Disabled and Epilepsy Bereaved.

These two particular charities had been nominated by members of the Players who had been involved with them in the past. £1,000 was raised and split equally between the good causes.

In the presentation to RDA, pictured left, are Lewis Phillips (cast member), Brian Dart (chairman), Pat Phillips (producer) and Tania Honey (RDA chief exectutive officer)

Pictured with the Epilipsy Bereaved cheque are, left to right, Brian Dart (chairman), Sheila Pring (EB founder member), Claire Wood (cast member) and Alice Barnes (cast member).

Award-winning GP Practice – Recruiting New Patients NOW!

Have you registered with us yet? WHY YOU SHOULD…

• Personalised service – you will have your own GP • Fast service – we always have same day appointments • Convenient service – open 8:00am to 6:30pm Mon-Fri, AND Sat am • 24 hour telephone and on-line booking available • Email and telephone GP consultations available Extensive range of services offered including: Stop smoking support | on-site pharmacy | travel clinic | sexual health See www.horfieldhealthcentre.nhs.uk for further information and registration form Horfield Health Centre, Lockleaze Road, Horfield, Bristol BS7 9RR, Tel: 0117 9695391, Email: horfield@gp-L81022.nhs.uk

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May, 2013

What’s on in Filton on a regular basis Mondays

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

Tuesdays

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

Wednesdays

Filton Garden Club, St Teresa’s Social Club, 7.30pm. 1st Wednesday of every month, 0117 975 9126. Not January. Filton Camera Club, 7.30 p.m, on alternate Wednesdays (except June, July and August) at Filton Community Centre, Elm Park. For details, contact Brian Frost on 0117 9651242, Brnf3335@ aol.com, Work club: St Andrews Methodist Youth Centre, Elm Park, BS34 7PS, 2-4.30pm: Dropin 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 Aqua circuits 10am - 11am £4.00 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 ‘silverhaired’ folk (over 50yrs) to get help with accessing computers, the internet, mobile phone technology, digital cameras, and much more! Run by a dedicated team of friendly volunteers with Lisa at the helm, this supportive group is just as much a social session as it is about learning! Come and join us! Free to come along anytime, just £2.50 per session with free refreshments. This group does not run during August.

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.

Fridays

St Andrews Youth Centre

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

Saturdays

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, 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,

Weekdays

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

For young people: We’re closed til April 21st and then will be re-opening with: Mondays 5.30-7.30pm Duke of Edinburgh’s award groups Tuesdays 7.30-9.30pm Youth Club for Years 8-14 (13-19yrs) Wednesdays 7.30-9.30pm Youth Club for Years 8-14 (1319yrs) Thursdays 7.30-9.30pm Youth club / transitions for young people aged 16-25 with learning difficulties Fridays 6.30-8.30pm Girl’s Only youth club Fridays 8.30-9.30pm Tea & Toastie drop-in (tea, toasties, and information, advice / contraception drop-in for 13-20s) Then coming from May: Tuesdays 5.30-7pm Youth club for Years 5, 6 and 7 (9-12yrs) Wednesdays 5-7pm Youth Council Thursdays 5.30-7pm Youth club for 11-15year olds with learning difficultiesThe youth club programme has a range of activities including sports, arts/ crafts, roller skating, quizzes, computers, games, Wii, karaoke, and cooking. We’re also a C-card access point for condoms! Also tuck shop and pool tables available at subsidised rates! We also do lots of trips and 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

To advertise, contact Richard on 0777 555 0607, Emma on 0771 577 0448 or Wendy on 0771 577 0242. Email: adverts@filtonvoice.co.uk

May, 2013

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Pyramid Youth Club

After the withdrawal of South Glos. funding to the Club we are fortunate to have been offered funding from Young Bristol and Filton Town Council which together with various other smaller donations, will help us to keep the Club open. Thanks to all organisations concerned. We are now open almost as usual:Juniors 5-9 yrs Thursdays 6.30 - 7.45 p.m. Inters 10-12 yrs Mondays and Fridays 6.30 - 8.00 p.m. Seniors 13+ Mondays and Fridays 8.00 - 10.00 p.m. Judo Tuesdays Juniors under 13 yrs 6.30 - 7.30 p.m. and 13+ adults 7.30 - 9.00 p.m.

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Juniors have a rotating programme of crafts, games, cookery and computers working in small teams. Inters and Seniors have football, basketball, dodgeball etc. plus pool and table tennis, computer games, cookery and music. New members are welcome. Please ring 9691315 if you want more information. There are vacancies in all age groups. Based at 470 Filton Avenue, contact Margaret Morris 0117 9691315

Filton Community Centre 983 6500

Mondays: Tea dance, 1.45-3.45, call 302 6981. Zumba fitness class, 6.30-7.30

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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, 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

1st Filton Scouts, Cubs & Beavers

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

What’s coming up in Filton Sat, 11th May

Free Children’s Event at Filton Library. Come for a fun workshop with children’s e-book author A.M.Layet. Suitable for children aged 8 to 12 years old. This event is free. 2.30 - 3.30pm

Tues, 14th May

Southern Brooks Area Forum, Abbeywood Community School, Stoke Gifford BS34 8SF, providing South Gloucestershire residents with an opportunity to get involved in decisions affecting their communities.

Sat, 18th May Filton Twinning Association fundraising event: Wine & Cheese Night, 8pm in the Pavilion at Elm Park.

CAR BOOT SALE Abbeywood Community School, New Road,Stoke Gifford BS34 8SF 9.30 am - 12.30 pm, access to sellers from 8.30 am Cars £6, vans £8. No need to book. Buyer entry by donation (due to licensing laws)

Toilets on site. Hot food and refreshments available. Sorry, no dogs allowed on site. Other car boot dates: Saturday 15 June 2013 and Saturday 14 July 2013. TABLE TOP SALE On Saturday, 18th May, 2013, at St. Andrew’s Methodist Church Hall, Elm Park, Filton, Bristol -

10.30 a.m. to 12.30 p.m. in aid of Church funds. Enquiries or bookings tel. 0117 9799233.

Thurs, 23rd May

EASY EVENING WALK Severnside Ramblers Meet 18.30 at Filton Abbey wood Station returning by bus. Distance 5 miles. Linear walk from Filton Abbey Wood Station – Purdown, St. Werburghs to Montpelier. Filton, Purdown & Montpelier. Contact 01179 798628. Further information view our website www. severnside-ramblers. org.uk. Other dates in May - 12th, 17th, 19th, 26th and 31st

Sat, 1st June

Filton Library, Spacecrafts & Aliens,2.30-3.30pm. Come along to our Spacecrafts and Aliens story and craft activity. This is a free event most suitable for 3-10 year olds.

Sat, 22nd June

LNB Towbars, OPEN DAY, We are holding an Open Day on 22nd June 2013 at Golf Course Lane, Filton, to showcase all that we do. Everything and anything that can added to a vehicle we do. We will have a Free BBQ, Drinks, Bouncy Castle, New Landrovers, Free Raffle with Big Prizes. We will have displays of Roof racks, trackers, roof boxes, bike racks, parking sensors, car audio, handsfree kits, towbars, dvd systems and more. See advert on Page 15

Saturdays

9.30am – 10.30am, Filton District Councillors’ Surgery, Filton Library, Shield Road Retail Park, Link Road, Filton, Bristol (map) An opportunity to discuss local issues with the three South Gloucestershire councillors who represent Filton.

Filton Town Council

For meeting dates, see Pages 20 and 21

Sat, 15th June

Chatterbooks, 2.303.30pm. A reading group for children in years 5 and 6. Speak to library staff for further details and to join.

You can find all listings online at www.filtonvoice.co.uk. And if you are organising an event, you can upload details to the website

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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News feature A one-man orchestra who has delighted audiences in Filton and north Bristol for years is celebrating the 10th year since a unique instrument was first heard in this area. Byron Jones, also known as the Welsh Wizard, has been thrilling concert-goers on the 1927 ‘Wizard Compton’ at Eden Grove Methodist Church Hall since he and his team completed the painstaking reconstruction of the organ. The instrument was the 7th Compton built by organ makers John Compton of London, and was used at the Rialto, Leytonstone, until 1973. It was then bought by a music-loving priest in Hornchurch, Essex, before it was earmarked to be sent to Australia to be used as spares. It was then that Byron, a professional musician for 46 years, stepped in and took the organ in bits to his home in Filton Avenue. He carefully rebuilt it before installing it in the hall at Eden Grove Methodist Church where it now sits, rising up from under the stage like a scene from Phantom of the Opera for performances. It is thought to be the only church hall in the country with this kind of organ. Yet it is no ordinary organ. Not only does it have the usual array of instrumental sounds, but an intricate network of bellows and wires means that when Byron presses a key on the organ, a real drum, whistle or xylophone is played automatically. These other instruments are displayed around the Wizard Compton with special lighting effects, creating a magnificent spectacle during performances. Byron organises several concerts a year at Eden Grove, often inviting top organists to play on the Wizard Compton. And the instrument is often used as it would have been originally, accompanying silent movies with Byron improvising on the keyboards. They have also raised thousands for charity, with among this year’s chosen beneficiaries the Motor Neurone group which meets at Eden Grove. Byron, who performs across the UK and USA, said: “We originally heard it was going to be sold for parts in Australia so be bought it and for two and a

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May, 2013

Byron celebrating 10 years of wizardry on the organ at Eden Grove

It is a decade now since organ maestro Byron Jones installed a very special instrument in the church hall at Eden grove Methodist Church. Since then, he has been entertaining audiences both from the local area and further afield.

Wizard Compton concerts

May 24, Nigel Ogden May 25, Byron Jones June 22, Donal McKenzie Call July 6, Byron Jones with Dirk Jan Ranzjin 0117 949 7742 July 27, Andrew Nix or visit www. August 24, Len Rawle MBE wizardcompton.org. September 28 Michael Woolridge uk October 26, John Mann November 23, Robert Wolfe December 14, 7pm and December 15, 2.30pm, Byron Jones Christmas Concert Doors open 6.30pm for 7pm start unless stated half years it was in pieces in our house in Filton Avenue. “Eventually Ray Hulbert suggested putting it in to Eden Grove and while we thought it would just be here for a couple of years, it’s stayed ever since and we’ve brought a lot of people in to our concerts. “I must pay tribute to Gordon Haley who works on the tuning of the instrument and also Bob Ball and Terry Ahearn who have done so much work building it up.”

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