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filtonvoice February, 2013 Issue 17
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History of Filton schools: Pages 28&29
SCHOOLS. PAGE 13 | LETTERS, PAGES 14&15 | ARTS, PAGE 34
Filton lights switch-off in July
Some street lights in Filton will be turned off in July between midnight and 5am GMT to preserve energy, South Glos Council has confirmed. Last year, Filton town councillors were told that if they wanted to keep the lights on, they would have to fund this through the parish precept. There will be certain lights exempt from the switch-off: • Lights important for operation of CCTV • Lights near sheltered housing Turn to Page 3
Head speaks out on school’s new regime Page 4
When the snow came to Filton
Pages 8&9
PLUS
Postal worker sacked after residents had no mail for 10 days Page 3
GP branch in Filton set for closure
Page 11
Filton town council precept is frozen for another year Page 5
Hospital staff to wait until 2015 for full parking
Page 20
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www.filtonvoice.co.uk Contacts
Local information South Gloucestershire Council www.southglos.gov.uk 01454 868009 Safer Stronger team sscg@southglos.gov.uk 01454 868009 Anti social behaviour team asbreporting@southglos.gov.uk 01454 868582 Streetcare/litter/vandalism etc streetcare@southglos.gov.uk 01454 868009 Environment/trading standards 01454 868001
Police www.avonandsomersetpolice.uk General enquiries: 101 Emergency: 999 Fire www.avonfire.gov.uk General enquiries: 0117 926 2061 Emergency: 999 Filton Town Council More information on Pages 16/17 01454 866 698 NHS Direct 0845 46 47
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February, 2013
Richard Coulter Editor and publisher
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Emma Cooper Advertising sales
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Local advertising in filtonvoice works Many thanks to everyone who has offered such positive feedback about your monthly magazine. And it is YOUR magazine ... a place to find out things about our community and have your say. For businesses, it’s a great - and affordable - chance to get your message out to 12,000+ people locally.
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I have used FiltonVoice from the very first issue to advertise our FACS (Friends of Abbeywood Community School) events. At our car boot sale on 19th May we asked people coming through the door how they had heard of the event and the vast majority said it was because they’d seen it in FiltonVoice. They also commented on what a great magazine it is. I shall continue using the magazine to advertise our fundraising events. Many thanks. Jeanne Clements (FACS)
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Recently I had a problem with my double glazed front door. The lock had jammed, and I was unable to open it. I contacted a local locksmith and was told that it would be impossible to repair the lock, and the only solution would be a new door, costing in the region of £600 – 700, and would take at least a week as the door would have to be made. Not convinced that this was the only solution, I contacted DGR Windows, as advertised in your magazine. The gentleman visited the same day and was sure the problem could be fixed. He returned the following day with the necessary parts, and the problem was solved at a cost of £250. The work was carried out in a friendly and professional manner, and I cannot praise EDITOR’S NOTE: Filtonvoice is independent. We cannot take responsibility for content or accuracy of adverts, and it is advertisers’ responsibility to conform to all relevant legislation. We cannot vouch for any services offered although we have used some of the services.
this company highly enough.” Name and address supplied
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We decided to advertise with Filtonvoice as we felt it was the most professional looking local magazine. I feel we have proved to be right and the costs have been well worth it, we now have bookings months in advance. Ashley & Sarah Porter Porters catering
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I decided to put an ad in filtonvoice and I was delighted to pick up work well into next year, and not just a one-off job but a number of jobs. Gardener Graham Cook
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At Dream Doors we have been so impressed with filtonvoice. We have had several enquiries in the short period we have been advertising. But in addition, we are happy and proud to be associated with such a high quality publication – it is well written, well designed and it is probably the best local magazine we have seen. The monthly distribution through letterboxes means that the customers we are trying to reach will read our message and the fact that the magazine is so good means we know people will not throw it away. Keep up the good work! Loretta, Dream Doors
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My computer seemed to be on its last legs but I went to Graham at Goto IT on Filton Avenue and now it’s as good as new - better in fact! BC, Filton Park Please support local firms who advertise and when you do, please mention filtonvoice Opinions are not necessarily those of the editor. Filtonvoice is distributed each month to all Filton residents. If for some reason you do not get a copy, please get in touch or collect one from Filton Library. Feedback is welcomed, call editor Richard Coulter on 0777 555 0607 or richard@filtonvoice.co.uk.
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Postal worker sacked after Filton residents had no mail for 10 days A Royal Mail worker has been sacked after Filton residents complained post had not been delivered for up to 10 days in January. Helen Monk from Mayville Avenue said a mortgage offer, tickets and wage slips had not been received as expected. Others said they had had trouble making complaints to Royal Mail over the matter. Filtonvoice has now been told that a member of staff has been dismissed following an investigation into “the intentional delay of mail”. Ms Monk said: “I have been waiting for tickets, a mortgage offer, wage slips and have I heard back from Royal Mail? No! “I am absolutely livid and I’ve reported it on-line, on the phone, got a ref number, promised they get back and here we are 9 days later - still no answers - still no mail. “They make it as hard as possible to get in touch with anyone near to you. “The Patchway depot don’t answer the phone as ‘They haven’t got enough staff to answer phones’, according to Customer services.” Another resident said: “I’m on Boverton. Haven’t had any (mail) either but did see some people with clipboards searching
“Royal Mail customers should be confident in our services and systems, but where we are alerted to problems, either through our own stringent checks or from information supplied by our customers, we always take decisive action to investigate.”
a post person’s car round the corner yesterday afternoon.” Other Facebook comments included: “Are we going to get are missing post returned to us? That is the next question.” And: “We have had some post but we are still waiting for 2 missing parcels that were supposed to have been part of my Christmas present.” Royal Mail spokesperson Adrian Booth said: “Royal Mail can confirm that a member of staff from Patchway Delivery Office has been dismissed as part of an investigation into the intentional delay of mail. “Royal Mail has a zero
switched to part-night operation except where we consider they help mitigate crime and antisocial behaviour, or improve road safety and reduce accidents, in which case they will remain lit throughout the night. “After the scheme was approved by the council with cross-party support in 2008, it was successfully trialled in a number of areas in South Gloucestershire before roll-out to selected areas and ‘A’ roads began last year.” Visit www.southglos.gov.uk/ partnightlighting
tolerance approach to any dishonesty and that stance is shared by the overwhelming majority of postmen and women, who are honest and hardworking and who do all they can to protect the mail and deliver it safely. “We will always seek to prosecute the tiny minority of people who abuse their position of trust. “Royal Mail customers should be confident in our services and systems, but where we are alerted to problems, either through our own stringent checks or from information supplied by our customers, we always take decisive action to investigate.”
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July date for lights switch-off in Filton • Lights close to 24-hour emergency services such as hospitals • Lights near pedestrian crossings and controlled junctions Filton residents had expressed fear over the possibility of rising crime but South Glos says there is no evidence for this. Filton councillors had previously indicated they wished to quiz South Glos officials over the policy. A South Glos spokesperson said: “All street lights will be
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Shedding the pounds and raising pounds Filton slimmers will be shedding pounds ... and donating pounds to a local charity. Members of Carolyn Collier’s Slimming World class at Elm Park are being invited to take part in a sponsored slim starting this month and proceeds will go to Filton Chest and Heart charity. Carolyn, pictured above, said: “This is part of a national campaign by Slimming World but it’s all about raising money for local charities. “The idea is that members of our group will go back to their friends and families and invite them to offer sponsor money. “We are thrilled to be able to offer any proceeds to help the great work of Filton Chest and Heart.” The charity raises cash to buy equipment requested by local doctors. Over the years, thousands of pounds worth of equipment has been bought for use by Filton residents. Chest and Heart chairman Brian Smith said: “We are delighted and wish to thank the Slimming World members very much.” Carolyn’s Slimming World group meets at The Pavilion, Elm Park, Filton on Mondays at 5pm p.m. and 7pm. * when you buyon a 12-week Contact Carolyn 01454898494.Countdown course 1-26 January 2013
Head: our no-nonsense regime is paying dividends for school
Dave Baker with students at Abbeywood Community School
The head of Abbeywood Community School says his no-nonsense approach to behaviour along with the school’s partnership with Bradley Stoke Community School is beginning to pay dividends. The school was in special measures just over a year ago but since Dave Baker took over, there has been a sharp improvement in both the performance of the school and attitudes. Mr Baker is now preparing to formalise the link with Bradley Stoke under the Olympus Academy Trust. The bow tie-wearing head, who is executive head of both schools, told Filtonvoice that change was necessary - and this has raised expectations of both staff and students. He said: “Until last year, many teachers were simply firefighting in lessons, dealing with behaviour, mobile phones,
bags in the wrong place, uniform and so on. Now we’ve got a lot of this sorted and one teacher told me: ‘This is the first time I’ve been able to teach properly’. “It all starts with the basics and things like enforcing our uniform policies. “This means students look smart and no longer look intimidating. “With mobile phones not allowed, there is a whole different atmosphere now, leading to better social interaction between the students. “The school is a calmer place now and we have raised our game in the classroom.” The school will have a visit from Ofsted before the end of the summer term but Mr Baker points to the general improvements in the school along with early successes in GCSE results which, he says, will give the school a good chance
of a favourable report from the inspectors. Mr Baker said that although the school fell short (47%) of their 55% target for 5 A*-C including English and Maths, he pointed to the “fiasco” over the English GCSE in which students who sat the exam in the summer were marked more strictly than those who sat it in the winter. He also said that although running two schools is a huge job, he has introduced “clarity of roles” for senior staff members which means he has a more overarching role with associate heads in position in each school. However he said there were clear benefits from sharing experiences and students were being given greater access to enrichment activities as a result. Mr Baker has been head of Bradley Stoke since it opened in 2005 and succeeded Ann Duff at Abbeywood in November 2011.
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Precept freeze for another year Filton residents will again have a freeze on their council tax precept - the element of council tax which goes towards town council coffers. And the council will be in a position to offer £9,000 to each of St Andrew’s and Pyramid Youth Clubs, which were facing cutbacks in light of changes in South Gloucestershire funding. The council will also be able to give £7,000 to Southern Brooks for their work in the community after an appeal was made at a finance meeting last month. For 2013/14, the average Band D household will pay £174.48 per year on top of their South Glos council tax. The precept freeze follows a year in which chair of finance Bill Moore led a comprehensive review of spending. Councillors agreed the budget after work with accountant Derek Kemp who told the full council meeting that the Ratepayers Arms pub was still making a loss but heading for profit next year.
Cllr Kieran Hyde said that the Ratepayers’ figures did not include power and other services, which were included in the overall figures for the town council, leisure centre and bar. Mr Kemp said such services had never been broken down to the various parts of the own council operation. He said: “The Ratepayers is moving in the right direction - better than the budget for 21012/13 - and if the trend continues it will be in profit next year.” Mr Kemp, when asked by about the impact if the Ratepayers were to close, said that there could be a risk that it would decrease footfall to other parts of the complex. Earlier in the meeting, Mr Kemp said that while there was uncertainty over future government grants for town councils, it made sense to accept the budget and he said that while he couldn’t guarantee the level of funding next year, he said councillors “shouldn’t lose sleep” over it.
Leisure centre car park could get makeover The car park at Filton Sports and Leisure Centre could get a £50,000 makeover after councillors were told they had £29,000 to spend. The money is ‘106 money’ available to the council from the aborted fieldworks project in 2010. 106 money is a fixed sum usually paid to the community by a developer to mitigate the work being done. The remainder could be found from the council’s general reserve surplus according to accountant Derek Kemp. Councillors - including chair of finance Bill Moore - expressed surprise that the money was available and councillors complained that they were unaware of the cash because it is not clearly listed in the council’s accounts. Cllr Moore said: “At no point did I think there was 106 money so it didn’t occur to me to ask. “I find it extraordinary that it was not pointed out.” A reply to a question by resident Dave Mikkleson to the council, the first under the new
rules of written submissions to the finance committee, has now been published: At December 2012 Full Council the Town Clerk advised that there was around £20,000 Section 106 money waiting to be allocated to a project. The Town Clerk advised that the expiry date for use of the funds was 6 months ago and she had secured an extension. The Accountant has now advised that there is in fact £29,123 unspent Section 106 money. Q Why was the original time frame for use of the Section 106 money allowed to expire? A The 106 Money was allocated at the time of the fieldworks project and was earmarked to be used along with the income received from the project. When the Fieldworks project was aborted the 106 money was shelved. Q What is the new expiry date? A No date has been agreed. Q How many councillors were aware that there was 106 money available? A All councillors should be fully
aware of this at it is listed in the end of year accounts (referred to as unspent deferred grant) Q What is the precise wording for the use of the 106 money? A To enhance open space and recreational facilities in Filton” Q Since the meeting have
any discussion taken place between the Town Clerk and the Council on how this money could be put to use, given that there seems to be a limited timescale for it to be used. A Yes with Chair and Chair of Finance.
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Willow Brook Centre
Patchway Underpass
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February, 2013
FILTON
Patchway Rail Station
Callicroft Road
Filton Abbey Wood Rail Station
UWE
Southmead Hospital
Frenchay Campus
HORFIELD
Filton Church
Filton Abbey Wood Rail Station
Filton Avenue
UWE
Bristol Rovers Football Club
Churchways Avenue
Frenchay Campus FRENCHAY
UWE St Matthias Campus
STAPLETON
UWE Glenside Campus
College Road
BISHOPSTON
ASHLEY DOWN
Redland
Quarry Road
Eastville Park
FISHPONDS GREENBANK
Clifton Down Rail Station University of Bristol
Elton Road
KINGSDOWN
Cabot Circus
Broadmead
Stapleton Road Rail Station
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New services promise better travel - but concern over station link South Gloucestershire Council is considering a bus link between Filton Avenue and Filton Abbey Wood Station via Nutfield Grove, it has been revealed. Filton councillor Roger Hutchinson told the town council that, due to “public concern”, he raised the issue with officers. On Facebook, residents expressed doubt about the viability. One said: “How ridiculous they think about putting buses on roads that are clearly not wide enough while we can’t even catch a bus on our end of Filton Avenue.” Another said: “Just taking a cursory look at the situation on the ground tells you it is not viable. For starters the junction with Filton Ave has poor vis to and from it. Buses would be standing in the middle of the
road and interrupting the flow of traffic causing additional delay to traffic on the Avenue as well as a potential safety hazard.” In a reply by Chris Sane, Head of Transport and Strategic Planning, Cllr Hutchinson was told: “Earlier this year, the Council committed within its Capital Programme to undertake a some feasibility work to determine the potential costs involved in improving bus access to the station so that potential funding streams can be identified if possible in the future. “Therefore, we are currently preparing a feasibility design and detailed cost estimate for the construction of a bus link between Filton Avenue and Abbey Wood Station via Nutfield Grove. “The design and cost estimate are programmed to be completed
by the end of March 2013 and the findings will be reported in April 2013.” Cllr Hutchinson was also told that although there have been some vi0lations by car drivers, officers felt the bus lane on Filton avenue, part of the Greater Bristol Bus Network, was working well. Officers said: “The bus lane on Filton Avenue was implemented as part of the Greater Bristol Bus Network in order to improve the reliability of services. “The bus lane is used and supported by both Wessex and First Group whose services use the bus lane. “Through officer observation the bus lane appears to be working successfully although we are aware that there is some abuse of the lane reported by First buses (car drivers using
sections of the bus lane). We are currently investigating options for assessing and overcoming this issue.” l Meanwhile Wessex Red’s number 13 and 19 bus services, which both go through Filton, have been improved, serving a wider area with better frequency. The 13 route is being extended from serving the University of the West of England (UWE), Frenchay campus and Bristol City Centre to now include Bradley Stoke. The 19 is being doubled in frequency and re-routed through Cotham and Kingsdown as well as UWE and Bristol City Centre. Both services will have brand new buses with on-board ‘next stop’ information. For timetable information visit www.travelwest.info/ newservices
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Knutty Knitters raise nearly £8,000 in memory of Christine
The Knutty Knitters who hit the headlines in December by knitting a life-sized ‘Knitivity’ scene in memory of a friend, have presented their chosen charity with the proceeds from the project in a very unique way. The group of six women, former staff members at St Teresa’s Primary, raised £7,700 for local charity St Peter’s Hospice, which cared for their friend Christine Walsh, below, when she passed away in December 2011. In true Knutty Knitters style the cheque was no ordinary cheque but a knitted one, which they presented to St Peter’s Hospice CEO Simon Caraffi, right. The group, made up of Alison Spurrell, Jean Richards, Anne Iles, Eileen Agnew, Pat Dardis and Julia Worth raised the funds by taking the ‘Knitivity’ on tour around Bristol making stops at local schools, shops, churches and the hospice. Knutty Knitter Alison Spurrell said: “The ‘Knitivity’ was extremely popular and the response we received was absolutely unbelievable. The public loved the figures and donated generously when they heard why we were raising money. Children were particularly excited and enjoyed recalling their own nativities. “Christine was a founding member of the Knutty Knitters so when she died we wanted to do something to help the hospice which made a very difficult time a lot more bearable for both Christine and her family. “The final amount is great and we’re all really proud of ourselves. It was a lot of work but so worthwhile to be helping a local cause which means so much to us. We hope to create more figures for next year and take it on tour again!” Christine died of Bowel cancer on 20 December 2011 at St Peter’s Hospice in Brentry. She previously used the day hospice facilities before spending the last days of her life at the hospice. St Peter’s Hospice is Bristol’s only adult hospice. Services are
provided free of charge, but the NHS contribute just 23% of the £6.5 million needed to run the hospice yearly, meaning support from the public is essential. Last year the hospice cared for 2,675 patients and supported over 6,000 family members including children. Petra Littlefair, community fundraiser at St Peter’s Hospice, said: “The amount of time and effort these ladies have put into this project is phenomenal and we couldn’t be more grateful.” For more information about St Peter’s Hospice and the Knutty Knitters please visit www. stpetershospice.org
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Filton in the snow Angie Venus
Dawn Bath Higgins-Brown Kirsten Gooding
Anthony Mannings
Finlay Coulter
Jeanne Clements
Front page pictures: Ashley Robinson and Becky Price
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Filton in the snow Kerry Robinson
Jo Clayton Hunt For several days last month, Filton was covered in a blanket of snow - causing headaches for workers and delight for children. Facebook users posted some great images, a selection of which are printed here. Visit www.facebook.com/ filtonvoice. l Round-the-clock working by South Glos’s winter maintenance team ensured that all key routes in Filton were kept open during the severe weather. Crews clocked up approximately 750 working hours over four days.
Brigitta Nagy
Claire
Jane Khawaja
Karen Pearce
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Councillor hits out as GP branch set for closure A Filton councillor has urged the local health trust to seek an alternative location for a GP branch surgery after it was announced that the Concord Medical Centre branch on Gloucester Road North is set for closure. The Elm Lodge practice is an offshoot of a main surgery in Braydon Avenue, Stoke Lodge, with around 1,500 registered patients at this Filton subbranch. In documents seen by Filtonvoice, NHS South Gloucestershire has received a request from Concord to close the Filton sub-branch. It is understood Concord has received notice from the landlord of the premises, a large residential style building, to vacate the premises which is earmarked by the owner for change of use. Letters have been sent to all patients telling them that they will have to look for an alternative surgery. Filton Cllr Ian Scott told a meeting of Filton Town Council that people in Charborough ward in particular may find it difficult to access alterantive services. He said: “From the current Elm Lodge practice there is no direct bus link to Braydon Avenue or the Northville Family Practice and a lot of patients living in the Charborough area of Filton will find it difficult to
Patient’s comment
access the alternatives being proposed, particularly the elderly, parents with young children and the less mobile. “These aspects need to be considered in the equality impact assessment as well as patient access to a computer and travel costs as Filton has been identified as one of South Gloucestershire’s priority neighbourhoods. “The PCT received notification from the partners of Concord Medical Practice that they will be required to vacate their practice premises by June 2013. “Whilst the PCT cannot influence the negotiations between landlord and the GP practice, it has a responsibility to ensure that the impact to patients is fully understood and that all patients have access to a GP practice. “The PCT state they will work closely with all parties over the next three months to ensure that patients are fully engaged and are given the opportunity to discuss their concerns. “The PCT intends to report back to the scrutiny committee at the meeting in April 2013 on the outcome of the engagement, the options appraisal and with a recommendation on how we plan to secure the provision of primary medical services for this registered population. “In light of the access difficulties that will be created by the proposed closure to
I am a patient at Concord and have been for approximately 30 years prior to it being taken over by Concord. I recently received a letter to advise that it will now be closing, I am absolutely dismayed by this news and don’t think in reality that we can afford such a loss in the community. I appreciate if the landlord is looking to sell the property there is not much that can be done for the GPs remaining here. However, this practice in Filton still needs to continue, there are enough patients to warrant this surgery. I live and work in Filton so it is convenient for me to go to the Drs as soon as an appointment is arranged. I cannot always get to Little Stoke and certainly not in works time which makes it very difficult for me. All the local residents and elderly population who don’t have cars have no possible way of getting to Little Stoke. I ask the PCT to please consider carefully the closure of this practice, it is not as simple as transferring patients to Little Stoke. Could Filton Clinic not be used for a GP surgery? This would be a very good compromise if we really have to lose such a community service. Sheryl Drewitt
patients in Filton, the PCT should consider the current site of Filton Police Station and the retail unit currently occupied by Blockbusters at Elm Park plus any other suggestions in the neighbourhood that come forward as part of the consultation process. “The PCT has a responsibility to ensure patients have access to a GP when they need it.” Dr Simon Bradley, from the Concord practice, said: “The proposed closure has been triggered by the expiry of the lease. “Over the last 18 months Concord Medical Centre has looked for alternative suitable premises that might reasonably be developed as a medical centre and have not been able to find any. Closure looks the only practical option. “We very much regret any inconvenience to local people but we are fortunate to have two alternative practices within a few hundred yards that are able to take any patients who are unable to attend our main surgery in Braydon Avenue, Little Stoke.” In recent months, Filton residents have seen shop closures, the imminent loss of the police station to Patchway, doubt over the Shield Road health centre, the imminent closure of Newleaze House sheltered housing and the end of operations at the airfield.
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Health Matters
with Dr Liz Lee, Horfield Health Centre Intermediate care The health care provided by your GP surgery is known as Primary Care. Hospitals provide Secondary Care. That’s all there used to be. You were either under the GP or under the hospital. But the drive to keep people out of hospital whenever possible means things are changing. We now have several services that offer something called Intermediate Care. If I have a patient who is sick with a florid cellulitis, or a serious chest infection I used to have to admit them to hospital for intravenous antibiotics. But thanks to the Intermediate Care service called Rapid Response I can now arrange for an experienced team to provide co-ordinated care for these patients. Instead of being in hospital for intravenous antibiotics they can have them in the comfort of home. Expect to see more of these type of services in the future. They are making a real difference See our advert, Page 19
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February, 2013
Valentine’s month, so ‘love your air ambulance’, charity urges
Great Western Air Ambulance Charity (GWAAC), providers of an air ambulance for the 2.1m residents of our region, are encouraging people to support their cause in February as part of a new initiative called “Love Your Air Ambulance” month. The charity, based in Filton, is currently trying to raise £250,000 of additional funds for a new Eurocopter EC 135 helicopter in order to replace the ageing Bölkow 105 model that it currently uses. A new helicopter would attend to patients four minutes faster, would allow a mother and child to fly to hospital together and would allow more space for the patient, equipment and mid-air treatment. During February, local businesses, schools and community groups are being encouraged to “love” their air ambulance by wearing red or pink for a dress down day, by holding a raffle or a heart themed cake sale. In 2010, Ian Taylor, 63, suffered a cardiac arrest while out with family in Gloucestershire and was attended to by the air ambulance at the scene, before being transferred to the intensive care unit at Bristol Royal Infirmary Hospital. Ian visited the air ambulance’s base in Filton to thank the crew that went to his aid, and in support of Love Your Air Ambulance month said: “Without the critical care
Ian Taylor with GWAA crew members at the helicopter’s Filton base support I received from the Great Western Air Ambulance, I wouldn’t be here today. “It’s amazing to think such a vital service is actually a charity, so in addition to the medical team, thank you to everyone who generously donates to the organisation, which made my invaluable care possible.” John Christensen, Chief Executive of GWAAC, said “The air ambulance attends on average
one cardiac arrest per day. With love and hearts normally at the forefront of people’s minds during February, we thought that this would be the perfect time to remind the people of our region that in order to continue operating, our charity relies on the support of the people that we serve as we receive no Government or National Lottery funding. “You never know when you
might need us, and that’s why it’s so important for people to support our cause and to help keep our air ambulance flying.” For more information about Love Your Air Ambulance month and to get involved with a fundraising activity, please contact Emma Carter on 0303 4444 999, email emma.carter@ greatwesternairambulance. com or visit www. loveyourairambulance.com
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February, 2013
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School news
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Shield Road Primary
Head teacher Mr Mepham has been running a Magic club after school at Shield Road Primary. Last term children performed a range of exciting magic to children and parents including the levitating glass of water, the rising card, mind reading, ‘cups and balls’, tricks with bottles and with cards. One of the club members Katie from Year 5 said “I liked going to the magic club because I liked to trick my friends. It’s cool to do magic!” Mr Mepham said: “It is great to see children learning new tricks because it encourages them to observe carefully and ask questions!!! “It develops confidence and is really good for their self esteem.”
St Teresa’s Primary
Recently Reception children were really excited to have a real life vet come to their classroom and talk about her job, pictured above. She also helped make better some of the children’s animals by giving them medicine or bandaging their wounds! Our thanks to Mrs Maria Lowe from Viking Vets.
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Petcare with Michael Parry of Vets4Pets in Filton
Importance of neutering
at risk. Unneutered cats will come into season frequently until mated, in this time their behaviour will change and they will start calling (loud meowing). l Castrated male cats are less likely to get into fights and need veterinary attention for bite wounds and abscesses. They are also less likely to stray in search of females and so the risk of getting run over by a car is reduced. Urine marking of their territory is less common.
Here are the key health risks why Filton Vets4Pets encourages pet neutering: l Male dog castration removes the risk of testicular cancer and reduces the risk of prostatic disease. It can also help in some behavioural problems, but proper behavioural advise should always be sort. Castrated male dogs are less likely to stray in search of females. l A female dog spay eliminates the risk of ovarian cancer and pyometra (a common and potentially fatal condition of the uterus). Spaying can also reduce the risk of breast cancer, unwanted pregnancies and stop the stress and inconvenience of having seasons. l A female cat can get pregnant from a young age and have repeated litters, which puts her health and wellbeing
Neutering is usually a straightforward operation where your pet is in and out of the practice in a day and it doesn’t affect their usual happy character. For more information please contact the surgery on 0117 969 8400 and we can discuss this in more detail with you.
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25%OFF NEUTERING For cats, dogs and rabbits only. Price depends on species, weight and sex of pet. Only available at Vets4Pets Filton. Age that neutering can be carried out to be advised by the Veterinary Surgeon. Please bring this voucher to your appointment. Offer ends 31st March 2013.
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Abbeywood Community School
Austine Humphrey, Harvey Moran, Ben Haslam and Alex Shain took part in the Wesport 3 v 3 basketball tournament. They went the whole tournament unbeaten. They defeated Bradley Stoke, Downend, Redland Green and Brimsham Green in order to take the trophy.
or visit vets4pets.com
Vets4Pets Filton Shield Retail Centre, Gloucester Road, Filton, BS34 7BQ Opening times 8:30am-7pm Mon-Fri, 9am-4pm Sat
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Letters and opinions
February, 2013
Bringing back happy memories
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)
I look forward to reading the Filton Voice, it brings back happy memories. As a child I was taken to the Green Cafe many times for lunch. I can also remember the old cottages on Filton Hill leading up to the Green Cafe; flowers and vegetables were sold at the gate on the hill (money put in a box at the side) Those were happy days – Filton as it was. I have lived in Filton for 81 years and seen many changes – not always for the best. Happy memories! Gloria Brown (nee James) Nutfield Grove l Just been enjoying a browse through the January edition of Filtonvoice. Thank you Richard. Just a few remarks about the article on the old cafe, pictured below, by Jackie and Peggie. Frank Swales was verger at the parish church but not warden. He was very much under his sister’s thumb both there, where she was sacristan, and in the cafe. Frank lived in Gloucester Road North, 3 or four doors south of the dentist’s surgery with his sister, Mrs Irene Hay, Donald Hay and Miss Culverwell who helped in the cafe. I have a couple of ‘before and after’ photos of the cafe site taken from a bedroom window at 74 Branksome Drive. Jackie and Peggie might be interested. Nic Blount
appreciate the monthly ‘Filton Voice’ issue that gives a good insight of what is happening in the area. Having been in Filton since around 1935 and seen Filton change from a farming area to houses and roads, gone are the green fields with cows grazing, Plunket’s shop, Travilian’s barbers shop with his parrot, blacksmith’s shop and horses all around. As youngsters we called to the parrot through the letter box, to
be chased away of course – good clean fun! Church Farm had the Filton Fire tender in one of the barns opposite the church, moved to a place opposite the Anchor Pub – now replaced. Back to the present day, I may have missed a mention of a change in the road opposite the church appearing in the Filton Voice or on notice boards about the closing of the underpass. I thought it was of less priority than the pavement and roads in Filton that are in a poor state –
Lots of change
Most people in Filton, I am sure,
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February, 2013
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Letters and opinions some not been attended to since houses were built over 60 years ago apart from cable laying. It seems pavements and roads must be in a bad state before attention – potholes and overgrown hedges are not always in that category. Comments over – good luck to Filton Voice. Ken Dunn Rodney Crescent
squadron site in the foreground with Hayes Lane running up the left side and the three Belfast sheds by the A38 in the background; it dates from about 1920, not 1911 as implied by your caption as the sheds (and indeed the airfield in that area) did not exist then - flying took place near Fairlawn as shown in photo 2. Photo 4 is in the AAH, but the aircraft are clearly Concordes being assembled, and not F-111s; there is a complete Concorde in British Airways colours in the right of the photo. Nigel de Bray
Welsh spelling
I write with reference to the feature article in the December issue, written by Mr Doug Daniels, about the trip with Filton Garden Club to the National Botanic Garden of Wales, pictured opposite top. While I appreciate the sentiment expressed in the report, I cannot let pass the faux pas of his key headline word, repeated again in his conclusion. The correct spelling of ‘welcome’ in Welsh of CROESO not CRUESCO. Mr Daniels can hardly expect a Croeso to Wales until he’s checked his spelling and been to Specsavers! Confion cynnes. Jean John, FiltonAve.
Dog mess fury
The snow is gone and the grass is re-exposed in Monks Park. Walking the dog this afternoon and from the confines of the paths I counted 26 separate piles of dog mess in various states from relatively fresh to older. Even when it’s sitting on snow – easy to see, easy to pick up, these owners can’t be bothered. Just recently I told someone that one of his dogs had just done a fresh one. He didn’t know and had to ask someone else for a bag. Clearly hadn’t come out equipped to bag it and bin it! I’ve heard some corkers: my dog normally poos only once; I’ve run out of bags; the kids don’t play near the trees…! The 26 piles of dog mess I saw today can obviously be multiplied by an unknown factor if I was to check the open grassed area between the paths. I walk the dog 4 times a day and if I were to play the same game that means I could potentially contribute say 4 piles
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Fight for BS34
a day, or 28 piles a week, or 120 – 124 piles a month or a grand total of around 1,460 piles of dog mess in the park each year. That would be from just one owner, one dog! My partner also has her own dog so from just that one household, we could contribute nearly 3,000 piles of dog mess to the park each year in pursuit of this endeavour. So I wanted to write to simply ask: What the hell is wrong with you people?! If you can’t clear up after your dog, your dog should be taken away and given to a responsible owner who will! This park is for everyone, not just for the convenience of dog owners who don’t give a damn about other users. Dog-Walker
Getting it right
Whilst reading with keen interest the airfield closure article I have noticed a mistake on page 9. Picture 4 shows four Concordes being put together in centre bay not USAF F1-11 bombers (stated as fighters)
in west bay as the write up indicates. Dan Webb. l I find Filton Voice a good way to keep up with what’s going on in Filton, but was disappointed in the captions to the photos on page 9 supporting the airfield articles. Captions of photos 3 and 4 are definitely wrong, pictured. Photo 3 shows the 501
Janet Hillier & I are still battling for our BS34 postcode that reflects the fact that we live in Filton, South Gloucestershire. We have been to our local MP Jack Lopresti, who despite having tried & been turned down by Royal Mail, is prepared to try again. He has also asked them to consider changing the location for parcel collection from Monpelier to Patchway. His staff have also written to the Association of British Insurers, to ask if they can offer advice on how to persuade Insurance Companies to assess premiums for our specific area differently, and not rely just on the BS7 postcode. All we want is the same postcode as other Filton residents, so we don’t have to pay increased insurance costs. We will keep you updated. Here’s hoping Brian Smith
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Sports news
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February, 2013
Flyers’ agony in basketball national final The Filton-based Bristol Academy Flyers suffered a heart-breaking loss last month at Ponds Forge as Leeds Carnegie produced an incredible late comeback to claim the 2013 Sportcover National Cup final, defeating the Bristol side, 66 to 64. Carnegie scored the final 14 points of the game - all inside of the last two and a half minutes as they erased a 12 point deficit in that period and took the lead in the final 15 seconds. In the closing seconds of the game, Flyers Captain Greg Streete drove the length of the court and put up a runner from the middle of the lane that
rimmed out, Enrique Garcia could only tip the ball straight up in the air on the rebound and as the ball rolled away the final buzzer sounded, sparking huge celebrations on the Leeds bench and big disappointment on the Bristol side. Flyers head coach Andreas Kapoulas said: “This was probably one of our toughest losses ever. “We played a great game and I am so proud of my players. I really feel we deserved to win this game. We controlled the rhythm of the game for 36 minutes, however in the last 4 minutes, the whole game turned upside down.
“Our captain Greg Streete was truly amazing today. He led the team and demonstrated that he is one of the best players of his generation. I am so proud of all the guys and I wish I could do something to take the pain away as I really feel we did not deserve this. If we can put this disappointment behind us and bring this quality of play in the
remaining two competitions, League and Trophy, we can hopefully finish the season in a much brighter note.’ Flyers Captain Greg Streete produced one of his all-time best Flyers performances with 19 points while Fran Robles and Doug McLaughlinWilliams added 12 and 9 points respectively.
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February, 2013
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Sports news
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Sportsman David takes over as captain at Filton Golf Club
Above, retiring captain Geoff Anderson fitting the jacket on new captain David Cottrell. Left, David Cottrell, Sheila Cottrell, Tony Duffy, Karen Anderson and Geoff Anderson
Outgoing Geoff thanks members for their support and praises club’s junior section A new captain has taken over at Filt0n Golf Club. At a special ceremony last month, retiring 2012 Club Captain Geoff Anderson officially handed over the Captains Jacket and Medal of Office to his successor for 2013, David Cottrell, at an Inauguration Ceremony held at Filton Golf Club. Club chairman Gary Dukes opened the evening by praising the efforts of Geoff throughout a very difficult year weatherwise and presented him with a memento tankard on behalf of all grateful club members. In his farewell speech, Geoff highlighted a number of successes, including the continuing development of the excellent Junior Golf Section, the thriving Senior Section and the great progress made by the Ladies’ Section. He also expressed his great pleasure at the development of integrated relationships between the Ladies’ and Men’s Sections of the club and felt sure this would continue under his successor. His charity of choice for 2012 was the “Autistic Society” and he thanked members for their support of this worthwhile cause throughout his term of office.
New club captain David Cottrell joined Filton Golf Club in 1987, became a trustee director of the club in 2002 and is currently acting treasurer. In earlier days, he was a keen cricketer, representing both Gloucestershire Schools and Bristol Schools at Under-15 and Under-19 levels. He also played rugby for Cleve RFC. David is committed to the continued development of what is already a very fine golf course and will actively support the greens committee. David said he also hoped to attract many new members to the club by ensuring our existing friendly approach to visitors, both on the course and in the clubhouse, is further enhanced. His chosen charity focus for the year will be a diabetes project in Bristol. David completed his address by introducing his vice-captain for 2013, Tony Duffy, who works for Rolls-Royce as Head of Health & Safety and is a past captain of B.A.G.S. (British Aerospace Golf Society) who uses Filton Golf Club as their home base. A club spokesman said: “All members wish David and Tony a successful 2013.”
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News Permission for new Rovers stadium on Filton border
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Permission has been formally During the city council granted for the new Bristol meeting chairman Nick Higgs Rovers stadium on the Filton said: “The application ... provides border. Bristol with the opportunity to South Glos Council granted build an international sports formal planning permission for stadium that can compete with the new UWE Stadium in Stoke cities such as Cardiff, Swansea Gifford, following the successful and Reading, to whom we are conclusion of negotiations consistently missing out on over the scheme’s ‘Section 106’ hosting national events. obligations. “It could also help Bristol 811_A5L_EDGE_Refurb_234099.ai 1 08/03/2012 The decision came days after Rovers to spring up15:36 to top councillors in Bristol voted to flight football, and bring a huge approve Sainsbury’s plans for the investment to Bristol. club’s Memorial Stadium site. “The new stadium is designed The committee voted 6-3 in to FIFA and International Rugby favour of the proposed store and standards, giving a capability to the deal will now allow Rovers to host international matches. This go ahead with building the new would bring sporting recognition UWE Stadium. to the region, with the 811_A5L_EDGE_Refurb_234099.ai
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additional revenue and business opportunities that would follow.” The approved design of the new Bristol Rovers stadium is initially with a 21,700 capacity, but this can be extended to 26,000 and ultimately 35,000 should success dictate. The new stadium will include a 1000 seated conference centre and banqueting hall, exhibition space, bars, restaurants and 28 executive boxes, community space, gymnasium, jogging track, teaching space and shared car parking with UWE. Mr Higgs said: “The results of will create thousands of construction jobs and hundreds of permanent full time and part
February, 2013
time jobs for local people. The Sainsbury’s development will include 65 housing units, including 23 affordable units, community space, 572 car parking spaces and a Memorial Square to partner the current Memorial Gates. Sainsbury’s will be required to fund a number of measurements to help mitigate the potential impact of the development. Councillors in South Glos originally resolved to approve the 21,700 seat stadium in July, subject to completion of the Section 106 agreement which sets out its contributions and enhancements to local infrastructure and amenities.
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February, 2013
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News League tables ‘misleading parents’ League tables for secondary schools are at best oversimplistic and at worst seriously misleading for parents, a local head teacher has said. As a result, the exodus in recent years to schools outside the greater Bristol conurbation and to the independent sector may not have been necessary for many families, it is claimed today. Dr Helen Holman, pictured, head of Orchard School Bristol, said the performance figures released last month for schools only paint a clear picture if parents are willing to dig well beyond the ‘headline’ figure. The ‘headline’ figure highlights how many students achieve five or more ‘good’ passes at GCSE, ie including English and Maths. However evidence on the Department for Education’s own website shows that children of similar ability in Year 7
often achieve similar academic outcomes with choice of school not always a significant factor. The pattern continues for middle and lower achieving children. In the Bristol area, schools at opposite ends of the league tables can point to upwards of 90% success for children who were high achievers at primary school. The explanation for the wide gap in the ‘headline’ figure is due to some schools having higher numbers of high achievers in coming from Year 6.
Dr Holman said that parents needed to look closely at the likely outcome for their own child, not for an entire year group. She said: “Unfortunately, there is a huge focus on the ‘headline’ figure yet this tells us very little of significance and, in fact, can cause a lot of confusion. “We want to stress to parents that the figures they should look at are those which relate to their own child, not a whole year group. Parents are looking at the stark contrasts in the headline figure when the reality is that their individual child will likely do just as well wherever he or she goes. For high achieving children, the vast majority will get five of more good passes at virtually all local schools. “Yet in Bristol we see families bussing their children to semirural schools to achieve no better an outcome than if they had stayed at a Bristol school. As a
result, we have fine teachers in city schools who are being told they are doing a poor job when in reality, they are doing as well as, if not better, than their counterparts elsewhere.” Dr Holman said that while she welcomed the inclusion of ‘prior attainment’ figures, the Government needed to look at a better measure for its headline figure – or drop it altogether. She said: “The headline figure only makes sense if all schools have identical intakes – which clearly they don’t.” Bristol University professor Simon Burgess, who was instrumental in persuading the Government to include prior attainment in the published figures, said: “The new information compares the performance of schools for children of different abilities and has the potential to be much more useful to parents than the simple average.”
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Computer tips
Feature
Printing So the paperless office never came and now printing is still a big part of our lives. There are two basic types of printers: Inkjet and laser. Inkjet works by squeezing small drops of ink onto a sheet of paper. Lasers work by charging up a drum (like rubbing a balloon to make your hair stand up!) and the ink powder is attracted to the parts of the drum which are charged. This then rolls on the paper to print the image. You can also get printers with scanners built in (called “All-in-Ones) . This can give you a small photocopier as well. If you decide on an inkjet, keep an eye out for one with separate cartridges for each colour. Some have one cartridge with 3 different colours in, so if you run out of one colour you have to replace the entire cartridge. The big difference between inkjets and laser printers is cost. Most printers produce great quality images. Inkjets are usually cheaper to buy but the cartridges are more expensive per page than laser cartridges. For occasional use, inkjets can be a bargain, however if you plan on doing lots of printing, a laser might be cheaper in the long run. If you would like to know more, please contact us on 0117 969 8767 or visit us on the corner of Filton Ave and the A4174. Advert on Page 7
Parking spaces for staff at the new Southmead Hospital will be severely limited for around a year after the official opening next year, the North Bristol trust has confirmed. There have already been concerns in Filton over hospital staff parking in and around the Kenmores. A consultation last year is now moving to its conclusion with restrictions and/or residents only parking being considered. There have been fears at public meetings in Filton that with the sheer volume of heatlh staff for the hospital (more than 6,000 workers), along with some visitors unwilling to pay the £2.50 minimum charge, the problem will simply be shunted to other parts of Filton. Residents around the Kenmores have told of grass verges being “destroyed” by cars as there is not enough space for vehicles on the road. A hospital spokesperson told Filtonvoice that the trust is supporting a “range of measures” aimed at easing potential problems. The Bristol Post reported unnamed hospital staff as being angry that there will be very little parking for staff until 2015. It is understood that a limited number of spaces will be available on a priority basis, for example for shift workers. Patients will be admitted to the new buildings in May, 2014 but the existing multi-storey car park will be earmarked for just
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February, 2013
Parking restrictions for hospital staff until 2015 patients and visitors until 2015. A new multi-storey will be built on the space of demolished buildings to create additional staff parking. A trust spokesman said: “We are committed to providing patients and visitors sufficient parking when the new hospital opens in spring 2014. “Currently the existing multistorey car park is a mixture of staff and public parking. “When the new hospital opens, this will be designated for patients and visitors and means that we will be able to provide a similar number of public spaces to what we have available at the moment. “For just over a year, staff parking will be restricted until we demolish the old buildings that will no longer be required after we have moved into the
new hospital and build a second multi-storey car park and create additional staff parking. “We’re telling staff about this early so they can consider and plan their options in terms of how they will get to work when we move. “The trust is looking at a range of measures to support staff to use other forms of transport and to provide off-site parking to replace the spaces that will be temporarily lost. This could include ‘park and ride’ solutions. “The survey aims to gauge opinions on these ideas. “There will still be staff parking spaces on site. “How these are allocated is still being reviewed. “However it is likely that these will be prioritised according to types of jobs (for example shift work).
... but hope for Kenmore residents Transport officials from South Glos are drawing up plans to end the parking misery on Kenmore Avenue and Crescent. This follows a public consultation in the aftermath of complaints about Southmead Hospital staff parking on both streets, which sit just inside the Filton boundary. Residents said that action by Bristol City Council to restrict parking on Kenmore Drive, just over the boundary, led to problems being shifted to Filton. Filton councillor Roger
Hutchinson informed a meeting of the town council that the consultation last year was “positive” and that a traffic regulation order would now be drawn up and made available for comment. This could lead to parking restrictions and/or resident only parking in the area. Cllr Hutchinson also reported that work is being prepared to make the streets safer around Filton’s three primary schools and to find solutions to traffic flow on Northville Road.
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February, 2013
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The city’s biggest fashion event returns from Wednesday 20th – Sunday 24th March, bringing catwalk glamour to the South West. Bristol Fashion Week will be at The Mall, Cribbs Causeway. Tickets are now on sale, with a limited number of front row seats. A spokesperson said; “You’ll find a refreshing array of models of all sizes and ages on the BFW catwalk to give a ‘real’ take on how to wear this season’s must have trends. “ITV Daybreak fashion stylist Mark Heyes and celebrity hairdresser Andrew Barton present each show with their witty combination of style advice, celebrity gossip and valuable fashion knowledge. “BFW guests will be treated complimentary M&S refreshments, a free stylish BFW goody bag will lots of things to sample; as well as an Event Guide packed with discount vouchers, fashion advice and competitions. “Get the best view in the house with a platinum FROW ticket (£13.95) or enjoy the view of the catwalk from a standard seat (£8.95). Tickets available now from The Mall’s Information Desk or online at www. mallcribbs.com
Parish mission to celebrate life of church Parishioners from St Teresa’s Church in Filton, along with St Vincent’s in Southmead, are organising a five-day parish mission to celebrate the life of the church. The event, from Wednesday, June 19 to Sunday, June 23, will feature a wide range of activities, with something for people of all ages and interests. The church wants to bring people together in a celebration of all that is good about life in the parishes. At the heart of the week there will be celebrations at local schools and even an open-air Mass. Organisers are also putting
together a programme which includes activities for parents, a barn dance, sports and games, and lots of eating and drinking. It is hoped that the work of the mission will continue after the week is over. Parish priest Father Tom Finnegan said: “ St. Teresa’s and St. Vincent’s are welcoming and open Catholic communities, with a deep desire to share all that is good with our Faith. The mission will be representative of this and all are welcome to attend.” For more details please visit the parish websites www. stteresasfilton.org.uk and www. stvincentssouthmead.org.uk
Due to space restrictions, a feature on Filton Concert Brass’s anniversary will be published next month
eleb C rate In tern ation al Wom en ’s D ay n da raise m on ey forG irl’s WorkinF iltonat:
St Andrew’s Methodist Youth Centre, Elm Park, Filton, BS34 7PS Friday 8th March 6-9pm Event for Women & Girls Only!
By Women For Women! Lots of stalls offering information, treats, gifts, cakes & craft items for sale, treatment Tasters, self defence workshop & lots more!
REFRESHMENTS! Various hot & cold drinks, Chocolate Fountain with fruit, marshmallows, chocolate brownie, Cakes & Biscuits And Hot Toasties!
Womenkind Team Quiz!
Teams of 3-6
RAFFLE!
Lots of Great Prizes!
£1 per person Rounds
Include: Photos,
Famous
Would you, or someone you know, like to set up a stall, either advertising Females your product/service for women, offering information, giving a treatment Women taster, or selling items? If yes, please contact Debbie at the centre. in
Either pop in, email standrewsmyc@hotmail.co.uk, call 0117History 9691938, or 07789 947506. At your discretion we ask a minimum £5 donation RomComs towards our fundraising for Girl’s work in Filton.
Name that song
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Advertising feature
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Photo courtesy of First Avenue Photography
The day of your dreams... Congratulations, the wedding date is set and now you are planning your perfect day. Did you know that wearing your wedding ring on your left ring finger stems from an old belief that it contained a vein that connected to the heart, an edict that King Edward VI made official during the 16th century?
February, 2013
While tradition plays a huge part in weddings, from the ceremony to the outfits, it’s also your day and there are so many ways to make it unique and a true reflection of you as a couple. Here are a few ideas to help you on your journey to the day of your dreams. The countdown begins...
Enjoy planning your celebrations Choosing the right venue can be daunting. With so much to think about and prepare for, organising your big day can sometimes sweep you off your feet. Whether you want traditional – or decidedly not – you need to choose the right venue for you. Here at the Aztec Hotel and Spa you can be sure that our meticulous attention to detail will ensure the smoothest of celebrations – from the moment you decide to tie the knot until
after the very last dance. The main thing to remember during the planning stages of your wedding is to enjoy it. If you would like to view the Aztec Hotel and Spa you are welcome to call in to the hotel at any time – but we do recommend you give us a call so we can make sure there'll be one of our wedding coordinators on hand to show you around. Call 01454 201090 or email aztec.events@shirehotels.com.
Other dates for wedding shows in 2013 17th March | 10th May 7th July | 8th September 17th November
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February, 2013
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Advertising feature
At First Avenue Photography we know how important your wedding day is to you. We capture those special moments to continue the memories for a long time to come. With a friendly and personalised service from the moment we meet you, we can assure you that you’re in safe hands. The most important thing to us is about creating beautiful
www.filtonvoice.co.uk 23 filtonvoice A team of professional photographers to capture those special moments
images that will evoke the emotion and special memories of your day, whenever they are seen. We are able to print photographs and design albums onsite and also offer a bespoke framing service. We are based in beautiful offices in the heart of Bristol’s city centre. We cover Bristol, Bath, Gloucestershire, Somerset and beyond.
www.firstavenuephotography.com Contact Rachel on 0117 929 3225 rachel@firstavenuephotography.com
@FirstAvenueUK www.facebook.com/FirstAvenuePhotography
Don’t miss our Wedding Fayre Sunday, 10th March 11am-3pm
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
• 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.
February Half Term at Filton Sports and Leisure Centre pool Monday 11th February – Friday 15th February 2013 Swimming Workshops
Small Pool Activities, each day
WHO: Stage 5 Dolphins, Stage 6 Sharks, Stage 7 Club Link, following the National Plan WHEN: Time 9.00 – 9.45am Monday – Back crawl Tuesday – Breaststroke Wednesday – Butterfly Thursday – Front crawl HOW MUCH: £5.50 per day or 4 days £22
Pre school, 9.00 -9.30am Stage One, Tadpoles 9.30 – 10.00 10.00 – 10.30 10.30-11.00
PLUS: Friday – Distance Day WHO: Stages 4 ,5, 6, club link WHEN: 9.00am to 10.00am, main pool only HOW MUCH: £5 This price does not include the certificate
Golden Egg Hunt EASTER SUNDAY March 31st 10.00am – 12.00pm Filton Sports and Leisure Centre, Elm Park (By Filton police station) Ages 0-5 yrs & 5-10 yrs £3.50 per child Activities include: Golden Egg hunt Pin the tail on the bunny Face Painting Basket Making Hat & Mask making Easter goodie bag provided For more information ask at reception or call on 01454866686
HOW MUCH: £24 for 5 days
Please book in at reception or telephone 01454 866686
• Contact the town council office Tel: 01454 866 698; Leisure Centre Tel: 01454 866686; or our website www.filtontowncouncil.gov.uk
A statement from Councillor Adam Monk, chair of Filton Town Council On behalf of Filton Town Council we are pleased that we are able to offer another year of a 0% increase on the precept. For the average Band D household, this means the equivalent of just £3.35 per week for all the services provided by the council. These include the leisure centre, maintenance of Elm Park, Millennium Green and other green spaces in Filton, maintenance of back gates, allotments and certain bus shelters. We have managed the freeze by squeezing more funding from South Glos and implementing stronger financial controls. We have also increased revenues, for example higher numbers for swimming lessons (no increase in price) and cost cutting. The coming year will see a reduction in services proved by South Gloucestershire Council for example a significant reduction in funding of Youth Services. Yet Filton Town Council will be in a position to offer financial support to both Pyramid & St Andrews Youth Centres this year. In addition, this year for the first time we will be setting aside a small amount of funding for community development and we will be working in partnership with Southern Brooks to develop community groups and develop the Town Plan.
Filton Sports &Leisure Centre Elm Park, Filton BS34 7PS 01454 866686
Filton Town Council meetings February 19th, 7pm Planning Committee Small Meeting Room
26th, 7.30pm Full Council Pavilion
26th, 7.30pm Full Council Pavilion
9th, 7.30pm Finance Committee Pavilion
March
Save a Heart
April
12th, 7.30pm Finance Committee Pavilion
16th, 7pm Planning Committee Small Meeting Room
19th, 7pm Planning Committee Small Meeting Room
30th, 7.30pm Full Council Pavilion
A full list of Filton Town Council meetings can be found on our website
Community Garden Last month, the first bulbs were planted in the ‘woodland area’ of our Community Garden. Well done & thanks to those concerned. Special massive thanks to Richard Truscott of Almondsbury Garden Centre who provided us with literally thousands of bulbs. It should look amazing in a few months time! Our grateful thanks also to Noel Harris’s son John, who has made a very generous donation of £500 to our project.
FREE TASTER SESSIONS
Filton Sports and Leisure Centre Activities February 2013 “NEW” Swim Fit, Tuesdays, 7.00pm8.00pm Aqua Aerobics, Tuesdays, 8.00pm – 9.00pm Circuit Training, Wednesdays, 6.00pm – 7.00pm Aqua Running, Thursdays, 10.00am – 11.00pm Boot Camp, Fridays, 6pm * Children’s Holiday Activities, see opposite page RLSS Lifeguard Course – Monday 11th Feb 2013 – Sunday 18th Feb 2013 Rugby Six Nations 2013. All matches will be shown in the Ratepayers Arms bar. Raffle tickets on sale for a Rugby Shirt March – April 2013 Swimming Lesson re-booking starts 4th March Children’s Holiday Activities, also see poster opposite page Good Friday March 29th Bank Holiday (£1.00 per swim, 10.00am2.00pm) Easter Sunday – Golden egg hunt, around the field. (10.00am – 12.00pm) Easter Monday April 1st Bank Holiday (£1.00 per swim, 10.00am2.00pm) Sunday 31st March, Boat Race Competition, how far can you row in one minute! Royal Life Saving Society Trainer Assessors Course Monday 8th April – 14th April 2013 Monday 27th May Bank Holiday (£1.00 per swim, 10.00am-2.00pm) June – August 2013 Swimming Lesson re-booking starts 3rd June RLSS Lifeguard Course Monday 15th July – Sunday 21st July 2013
Our friendly Royal Lifesaving Society instructors & staff will teach you the basic skills to perform cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) On Tuesday 19th Feb 2013 Drop in any time between 10am-2pm or 4pm-6pm
Donations welcomed, all monies raised will be donated to the Great Western Air Ambulance Charity
Filton Festival This year’s Filton Festival will take place on Sunday, July 14, it has been confirmed. More details in coming months Follow Us On: Facebook, Filton Sports And Leisure Centre Or On Twitter @Filtonpool Call 01454 866686
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News
T: 0117 908 2121
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January, 2013
www.filtonvoice.co.uk filtonvoice places Filton planningSchool applications Call for crackdown News deadline nears Recycling centre to reopen in mid February and decisions, January Parents who haven’t already applied for their child’s first school
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February, 2013
on danger cyclists
after programme of improvements Tackling dangerous cycling should be made a top priority by the new police and crime commissioner, a Bishopston councillor has said. Councillor David Willingham has written to Sue Mountstevens, urging her to ensure local police crackdown on anti-social cycling, such as riding on the pavement. Councillor Willingham said: “Bristol enjoys the accolade of being a Cycling City and much has been done by the city council to encourage and promote cycling. The Gifford vast majority of cyclists The Stoke Sort It!* are sensible law-abiding. Centre, whichand is the closest But there a small minoritywill facility for is Filton residents, of closed cyclistsfor whose behaviour is be improvements until dangerous, of my February 17,illegal. South Many Glos Council constituents find it intimidating. has announced. “The complaints I receive Opening hours Sabout ummer opening people cycling on the pave1st April 30thfrom September, ment aretooften vulnerable sections of the community.”
Applications l 75 Kenmore Crescent, Filton Erection of single storey rear extension to provide additional living accommodation
l 97 Station Road, Filton Change of use of land from residential (Class C3) to day nursery (Class D1) as defined in the Town and Country Planning (Use Classes) Order 1987 to facilitate the erection of side Complaints have been made about some cyclists riding on pavements conservatory. Alterations to vehicular access.
He has now invited Ms Mountstevens to come to Bishopston and meet traders along Monday to Sunday (closed the Gloucester8.00am Road to-6.30pm hear ther Wednesdays), views, before attending Winter opening * a local Neighbourhood Forum. 1st October to 31st March, At December’s Monday to SundayBishopston (closed Neighbourhood Forum,4 Wednesdays) , 8.00am police .30pm support David *comunity The site is closedoffi on cer Christmas Day, Said Boxing reportedDay thatand offiNew cers Year’s held Day. an enforcement day earlier in the month on Gloucester Road
and Whiteladies Road, to tackle safety issues with cyclists. l 15 Conygre Road, Filton One was stopped Creationperson of vehicular accessfor onto cycling on the pavement, with a classified highway. the majority stopped for cycling without lights. Those pulled over were given the option of a cycling safety lesson with a reduced fine. Ms Mountstevens has said there will be a meeting in January to look at cycling issues in this part of the city.
Decisions
place haveBrimbles, a fortnightFilton to send l 7 The their choices to thestorey city council. Erection of single front The deadline for applicaextension and conversion of tions is January 15form and aself council integral garage to spokesperson said:ancillary “We urgeto contained annexe parents to apply in plenty of time main residence. (Re-submission before the deadline of 15 January of PT12/3155/F) Approve with Conditions 2013 - all the information and online application is available on l 14 Dunkeld Avenue, Filton www.bristol.gov.uk/schooladmisErection of single storey and two sions.” storey rear extensions to formafIt comes just a few months additional living accommodation. ter the council Cabinet approved Approve with Conditions the School Organisation Strategy, allocating £31 million in 2012/13 For more information to schemes aimed at increasing the of primaryto places onnumber all matters available across the city. doThis with planning, includes £2.4m for including full details improvements at St Bonaventure’s and £1.4m for Bishop Road on local applications, Primary, to complete the creation visit of morewww.southglos. teaching facilities within the existing school and on the gov.uk site adjoining the playing field in Beauchamp Road.
ADVERTISING FEATURE
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A major benefit of a professionally drafted will is the fact that it can ring fence your estate for specific future beneficiaries, creating a trust which will protect the assets should there be a need for long-term care after the first person has died. Many thousands of homes were sold last year to pay for long-term care fees. This is why people are looking to protect their estate by having a will that can help guard against this happening.
We are all living much longer than before but none of us can foretell the future. Old age, or an accident, can bring with it deterioration in our ability to deal with our own affairs. By simply taking out a Lasting Power of Attorney you can appoint a trusted friend or relative to take over and deal with your affairs... paying bills, dealing with bank accounts and so on. At Allguard Services we understand that you may be unsure
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advertise,contact contactRichard Emma onon 0117 07715on770448. Joni onon07887 Email:Email: emma@bishopstonvoice.co.uk ToToadvertise, 0777 908 5552121 0607,orEmma 0771 Got 577 news? 0448 Call or Wendy 0771561567. 577 0242. adverts@filtonvoice.co.uk
February, 2013
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Filton news in brief
l The highly regarded Suited, Booted, Recruited (SBR) course, which is run exclusively by South Gloucestershire and Stroud College (SGS) in Filton and is available throughout Bristol and surrounding areas, is vastly increasing peoples’ chances of securing a job, it is claimed. Speaking to previous SBR learners in Bristol who completed the course between November 2011 and July 2012, staff learnt that 50 per cent of people had gained employment and 56 per cent had secured interviews as a direct result of completing the course. A further 16 per cent decided to continue with Further Education. SBR teaches skills required for employment and helps individuals build the confidence needed to succeed at interview. This free two-week course gives participants recognised qualifications valued by employers with a guaranteed job interview on the final day. Travel
expenses can be reimbursed and each person is provided with a daily lunchtime meal and a suit for interview or work clothing free of charge. SBR is available to people of all ages, with classes for adults and also 16-18 year-olds. Filton and Bradley Stoke MP Jack Lopresti said: “The course promotes real social mobility by offering positive benefits to students of all ages and backgrounds. They learn a wide range of skills necessary in the workplace and gain a real boost in confidence to help their prospects of gaining employment.” For more information or to book a place on a SBR course pleases call: 0800 056 6940 or ask at your local Job Centre Plus. l The Filton Working Together group are coordinating ‘Get Hired’ an employability event to be held at Filton Community Centre on Thursday, March 7, from 2pm – 6.30 pm.
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Organisers want local businesses, organisations and employment agencies to support this event by coming along and publicising vacancies, apprenticeships and volunteering opportunities as well as sharing best practise when applying for jobs. Spokesperson Katie Donovan said: “We need partners who can offer welfare advice and answer questions about how working may impact on benefits, tax credits, child care and other entitlements. “In addition, we need partners who can deliver interactive workshops on CV building, apprentice schemes, confidence building, assertiveness and interview techniques. “Finally, we also need to identify inspirational female speakers to share their journey with aspiring women throughout the day. Information about the ‘Get Hired’ and ‘IMEX’ event 2013
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will soon be available on www. southernbrooks.org.uk. l There will be February fun with a Story Time and Craft Activity at Filton Library on Saturday, February 16, 2:30pm – 3.30pm The event is suitable for children aged 3-10 years old. l The Unity group say their weekly Filton coffee morning could be at risk if numbers do not increase. The group meets every Tuesday in term time with the aim of breaking down barriers and increasing community harmony. The group offers support to reduce isolation and has other activities such as tasting world foods. Unity Coffee morning takes place every Tuesday (term time) starting 10-11.30 at PYRAMID Youth Club, 470 Filton Avenue, Bristol, BS7 0LW.
Dog Host Families Wanted We are looking for petcarers that can offer a variety of pet services including dog walking and dog boarding in their homes. If you have a dog this is a great way to earn some extra cash If you would like a dog but can’t commit to having one full >me then this it the job for you!
friends
forpets Telephone: 07585 504867 Email: bristol@friendsforpets.co.uk www.friendsforpets.co.uk
Got a story/something you would like everyone in Filton to know about? Call Richard on 0777 555 0607 or email richard@filtonvoice.co.uk
T: 0777 555 0607 28 Filton local history
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February, 2013
Happiest days of our lives
How many people know that a school once stood where St Peter’s Church Hall now stands. This month, Jane Tozer and Jackie Sims of Filton Community History explore the development of schooling in Filton Filton National School In 1741, John Silcocks left £50 to the rector and Churchwardens of Filton to be invested and the interest used to pay for a teacher to teach the poor children of the parish to read. In 1811 the National Society for Promoting Religious Education was launched. It gave grants for setting up schools, called National Schools. By 1841 there were 8 boys and 8 girls, with two infants being taught in the church tower of St Peter’s at Filton. A grant was obtained in 1849 for a school building. The school was built north of the church, in the place where the Church Hall now stands. The chief promoter and benefactor was James B Poulden, Rector, and apart from two small grants, from the Society and the local Diocesan Board, with various individual subscriptions, two thirds of the cost of building and equipping the school were paid by the Rector himself. It all cost £355. The premises consisted of a single schoolroom with a teacher’s residence attached. Accommodation was provided for 30 boys, 30 girls and for 20 infants who had their lessons in a gallery above the main room. Boys and girls were taught separately. Each child paid 2 pennies a week for tuition. The school was inspected
“Causes of absence were the same in any agricultural society, and the school log book shows that children stayed away for all sorts of reasons. Gleaning, haymaking, planting, and picking potatoes kept children away for weeks at a time.” The Filton National School was built about 1850. In 1927 the school was very overcrowded. A new school was built at Charborough Road and all the children moved there. The old school became the Church Hall. In 1954 it was demolished to make way for a new Church Hall on the same site at the corner of the A38 and Station Road. (Photo from the Colin Pulsford Collection) in 1871 and it was decided that more writing desks were needed, but it was not until 1874 that enough money was raised. Money to keep the school running was difficult to obtain. Filton Board School In 1879 the school became a
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Board School. This meant that funds could be raised from the parish rates to help cover costs. The committee was chosen locally. Its first Chairman was the Rector, and the Secretary was Frederick Gayner. In 1883 Samuel Shield was to become Chairman.
In 1880 attendance at school became compulsory. This did not necessarily make attendance more constant. The causes of absence were the same in any agricultural society, and the school log book shows that children stayed away for all sorts of reasons. Gleaning,
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February, 2013
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Filton local history
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36 Pupils were present when this photograph was taken in 1926 outside the school building. Hilda Saunders is sixth from right on the second row. Her brother Sid Chilcott is third from left in front row. (Photographer not known. Photo loaned by Hilda Saunders) haymaking, planting, and picking potatoes kept children away for weeks at a time. Other reasons for absence were lack of shoes, roads too muddy, illness, could not afford the fees, baby minding, even gathering sticks after a stormy night, are all reasons noted in the log book, and of course outbreaks of measles, chicken pox and whooping cough. Inspections of the school were made, and the teaching staff sometimes found unsatisfactory. Teaching and standards of attainment were criticised, as were the school premises. In 1887 the infants’ gallery was extended and altered so that they were not distracted by the junior school lessons going on below. The playgrounds (still separate ones for boys and girls) were covered with ashes. In 1891 the school house, still occupied by the teacher, was converted to an infant classroom as the numbers had increased. William Nation Baker, an outstanding teacher, was appointed in 1894 and transformed the school. He
continued in the post for 29 years. Gloucestershire Education Committee In 1903 the school ceased to be a Board school, and came under control of Gloucestershire County Education committee. After the opening of the aircraft factory the number of pupils rose. In 1914 the school roll grew to 120, and had risen to 160 by 1923, mainly due to the new council houses being built on Gayner Road. The Church hut was brought into use as an infant classroom – it was already in use for Medical examinations and Scholarship exams. By 1927 the roll was 212 and a new school at Charborough Road was begun. Information on Filton Church School was obtained from:‘Filton Gloucestershire’ by Lesley and Noel Harris. Filton National School Log Book now deposited at Gloucester Records Office. Jane Tozer and Jackie Sims – Filton Community History
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Unit 4/5 Grove Industrial Estate Patchway, Bristol BS34 5BB 0117 9792979
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Filton beat with Sgt Steve Ives Valentine’s Day can be extremely special for some people but unfortunately for others even this romantic day is not free of the fear of domestic abuse. Valentine’s Day is a good time to raise awareness of the issue and highlight the signs to friends, family members, and colleagues. There’s no excuse for domestic abuse which can happen to anyone regardless of their race, ethnic or religious group, class, disability, or lifestyle. It can also take place in lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender relationships. It can be carried out by other family members, it’s not always between partners. In some cases, older children - teenagers or young adults - are violent or abusive towards their mothers
or other family members. In others, young children are badly affected by witnessing a parent being abused. In all cases victims fear coming forward to ask for help, which is why this Valentine’s Day we’re asking you for help. If you think someone is suffering at the hands of a family
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February, 2013
link the experience of an abusive relationship. Acknowledging these factors is an important step in preventing and stopping the abuse. You can report domestic abuse via the Independent Domestic Abuse Helpline on 0800 69 49 999 or alternatively call the police on 999 or 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. member, we need to hear from police.uk – you can report crime, you. If you’re not sure, check out find local policing information and more this section on our website: • Call into Filton police station, http://www.avonandsomerset. Gloucester Road North. It’s open police.uk/information/ 8.30am to 4.30pm Monday, Documents/Section. Tuesday and Thursday (closed aspx?s=39#DID_7337 Abuse can take any form, but 11.45am-midday), and midday to 8pm Wednesday and Friday there are common factors that (closed 4.15-5pm). In an emergency, call 999. Otherwise call 101 24/7.
‘There’s no excuse for domestic abuse’
To advertise, contact Richard on 0777 555 0607, Emma on 0771 577 0448 or Wendy on 0771 577 0242. Email: adverts@filtonvoice.co.uk
February, 2013
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Filton police news
Call for views on policing
Residents, community groups, businesses and victims of crime in Filton will all get the chance to have their say on the first Police and Crime Plan when Commissioner Sue Mountstevens takes to the road. Ms Mountstevens will be touring the six policing districts of Avon and Somerset during February to try to capture as many local views as possible. She said: “I am keen to reach as many people as possible because it’s really important that residents tell me what is important to them to ensure that it is our Police and Crime Plan. I know that not everyone wants to respond to an online survey. That is why I will be out speaking to as many residents as possible. “For the first time ever there will be a Police & Crime Plan for each of the six policing districts of Bath and North East Somerset, Bristol, North Somerset, Somerset East, Somerset West, and South Gloucestershire. Each Plan will set out the vision, aims and objectives for the local area following consultation with you. Policing and crime affects us all and only by working together and tackling the priorities that matter to you can we make Avon and Somerset an even safer place to be.” She was due to visit South Gloucestershire earlier this month at the Coniston Community Centre, Patchway. Before Christmas, Ms Mountstevens launched the online consultation for the plan at www.consultation. avonandsomerset.police.uk, and
Filton residents can still take part online, pick up a printed survey from local libraries or call 01275 816377. The consultation ends on February 22. l Local charity Southern Brooks Community Partnership (SBCP) welcomed Ms Mountstevens before Christmas. She visited the charity to learn more about its work to support the development of safe, strong and inclusive communities in north Bristol. The Police Commissioner spent the morning at South Gloucestershire Safer and Stronger Strategic Partnership where Sue confirmed her commitment to working with the Voluntary and Community Sector and said that they would be key for the future in building communities in which people feel safe and are safe. She commended the Safer and Stronger Community Partnership for the ‘holistic’ way in which they approached creating a Safe and Strong Community. She visited the charity at their offices in Coniston Community Centre in Patchway where she enjoyed lunch in the community cafe run by Southern Brooks and she was also shown clips of children, young people and families who use Southern Brooks services. She said: “I’m humbled by the work achieved by the charity.” Southern Brooks Community Partnership is a charity to the north of Bristol that has been at the heart of the community since 1988. www.southernbrooks. org.uk
Southern Brooks staff and trustees with Police Commissioner Sue Mountstevens, second left, during her visit to the charity recently
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Plea to Filton people over stolen plates
South Gloucestershire police want help from Filton residents to try to track down stolen car number plates. Already this year eight plates have been stolen across South Gloucestershire and police fear they could be used by criminals trying to avoid detection. Community Safety Inspector Gerry Treacy said: “If you come across abandoned number plates, give us a call on 101. Thieves steal the number plates of law-abiding motorists and use them to try to avoid detection when committing other crimes. “Since January 1 this year 48 plates have been reported stolen across Avon and Somerset – eight in South Gloucestershire. “It’s important to tell us if your number plates are stolen, otherwise if your registration details come up as part of our enquiries into a crime we could be knocking on your door.”
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COME AND VISIT US FOR GREAT FOOD AND GREAT SERVICE 26 Gloucester Road North, Filton BS7 0SJ (Opposite Blockbusters) Tel: 0117 969 2065
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February, 2013
Search begins for Filton’s local heroes
Thought for the month with Rev Elspeth Desmond, St Peter’s Church, Filton
Volunteers and people who make the Filton community a better place are being sought for an awards scheme. Nominations are now open for the South Glos Council Chair’s Community Awards 2013. This year’s annual celebration of community work and volunteering marks the tenth anniversary since the awards scheme began in 2003. From charity fundraisers to local football club managers, South Gloucestershire Council has honoured the dedication and commitment of hundreds of unsung heroes. Chairman of South Gloucestershire Council Cllr Janet Biggin said: “I am anticipating a large number of nominations. ” You can nominate at www.southglos.gov.uk/ communityawards, call 01454 863008 or email communityawards@southglos. gov.uk
I wonder if you, like me, are recovering from one of those really horrid winter coughs and colds. I spent New Year with no voice and dosed up with lots of cold remedies, which seemed in short supply on the shelves of the local supermarket due to high demand! But hopefully now the coughs and colds are behind us, the days are lengthening, its getting lighter at last, and spring is just around the corner. To my absolute delight, on one of those dark dreary mornings, I gazed out of the window and there, amongst the shrubs, was a little sign of hope – a single snowdrop! The promise of spring was there in this delicate, beautiful little flower! Snowdrops are often called “Candlemas Bells” because they are normally in flower on 2nd February, Candlemas Day. Candlemas is the time in our
Bells, we can feel that joy of the coming of spring once again, and the symbol of God’s renewing love and light for our journey through the year ahead. I found this little poem to the humble snowdrop, and may we all look forward to a happy and blessed Springtime
churches when we celebrate the baby Jesus being presented in the temple by his parents, to give thanks to God. It is a festival of light and hope as we celebrate Jesus as the light of the world. Candles are blessed and lit as a sign of Christ – the hope and light in the darkness of life. So as we see those first snowdrops, those Candlemas
A fresh new snowdrop greeted me Amongst the leaves beneath the tree. That delicate and tiny flower breaks Frost and rain and snowy shower To tell us Spring is nigh. Our gardens soon will bloom again In summer sunshine, gentle rain With pansies, rose, hollyhocks But none can bring such joy to me As that tiny snowdrop neath the tree”
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Arts focus with Deborah Harvey T S Eliot had spent 13 Januaries in Britain when he wrote ‘the worst time of year for a journey’ about that of the Magi. I’ve endured almost four times as many, but still saw fit to venture to Holt in Wiltshire to see Somerset-based Reg Meuross play the Old Ham Tree pub under the auspices of the local Acoustic Club during the recent snow. And the weather was indeed atrocious, although arguably the worst part was getting down (and back up) a very icy Kenmore Crescent. It seemed that quite a few others had been put off by the snow, the turn-out being about 20, which was their loss, as Reg is widely regarded as one of the UK’s leading singersongwriters. February 4th sees the launch of his new album, ‘Leaves and Feathers’, and being a fan of long-standing, I was keen to
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Reg Meuross at the Old Ham Tree, Holt
hear some of his most recent songs. I had to wait a little while, however, as Reg opened his set with two songs from his 2008 album, Dragonfly, the first ‘Fool’s Gold’, a poignant exploration of love, infidelity and the sometimes foolhardy leap of faith that is marriage, followed by ‘The Man in Edward
Hopper’s Bar’, the wide range of which allows him to showcase his soulful tenor voice. Of the newer songs, the ones that stood out for me were ‘My Jerusalem’, a lament for the current state of Albion which refers back to William Blake’s seminal poem and also nods in the direction of TS Eliot and WB Yeats, and ‘I Saw A Woman’, an exquisite and mysterious tale about an encounter with a woman giving vent to her inner turmoil, the leaves and feathers stuck to her back echoed in the angel wings on the album cover. The audience was enlivened by a couple of hecklers who engaged with Reg in friendly banter between songs. It was an excellent evening’s entertainment which would have been all the more pleasurable with rather more
clement weather for our journey back to Bristol. Reg has a local gig coming up soon on Saturday 16th March, when he plays East Woodlands Village Hall, just to the south of Frome. See his website – www.regmeuross. com – for further details and for information on how to order his new album. Deborah Harvey is a Filton poet and author.
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The BIG picture
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The February winner of our BIG picture competition is Ashley Parker from Filton who took this atmospheric picture. He told us: “This is a photo I took when we had the heavy bout of fog. I needed something to show perspective of how thick it was under the street lamp so took it from behind a tree outside my house on Conygre Grove. I think the outcome was rather artistic and captures the cold weather.” Congratulations to Ashley, who wins £10. Fancy yourself as a bit of a photographer? Now’s your chance to win £10 as part of our new feature, The Big Picture. We’re looking for photos which capture life in Filton and we’ll print the best ones each month. To take part, send your picture by email to richard@filtonvoice. co.uk by the last day of the month. The editor’s decision is final.
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Oh yes they have! Panto group celebrates 30 years of shows in Filton
Garden club is looking to grow
Filton Garden Club wants to grow and is now seeking new members. The club is not a gardening club as such. On club nights the group has speakers and slideshows on a variety of gardenthemed subjects. They also enjoy day-trips by coach to some of the country’s finest gardens and estates. The club meets at 7.30pm. on the first Wednesday of every month, (except January) at St. Teresa’s Social Club in Filton - on the A38, nearly opposite Filton police station. New members will be made very welcome. For more information, contact Brian Smith on 0117 975 9126
Cast members during rehearsals for this years’s show, Sleeping Beauty St Andrew’s Players have been celebrating 30 years of performing pantomimes with their current production of “Sleeping Beauty”. This traditional family panto is taking place at St Andrew’s Church Hall. Filton on 13 – 16 February 2013, starting at 7.30pm. There is also a matinee performance on Saturday 16 February, starting at 2.30 pm. Group spokesperson Carol Miles
said: “Sleeping Beauty” promises to be full of all the usual fun and laughter you would expect from this type of show. “There is a beautiful princess, handsome prince, nasty fairy, court jester and many more. Something for everyone... young, old, friends and family. “You are invited to shake off those winter blues, have a good laugh and boo the baddies.” Tickets are priced at £6 for adults and £3 for children. To book
your seats, you can call the Box Office on 0845 1540950. More information is available on the website: www.sapfilton.co.uk As in previous years, a donation will be shared amongst two charities which this time round will be Riding for the Disabled and Epilepsy Bereaved. Editor’s note: Due to half term, some readers may receive their copy of Filtonvoice after or towards the end of the run.
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Better for mums
Mums-to-be from Filton will enjoy better facilities at Southmead Hospital after it was announced £475,000 was being given over as part of a £25million Department of Health fund to improve and upgrade maternity services across the country. The money will be spent on providing more en-suite bathroom facilities for mums at Southmead Hospital’s Central Delivery Suite, a new birthing pool, and the conversion of two areas in antenatal wards into family rooms to allow partners to stay overnight. Gillian White, Assistant General Manager for Maternity Services, said: ““Providing ensuite bathroom facilities will greatly improve privacy and dignity for the women who give birth at Southmead each year.”
ANDREW MURLEY Digital Aerial Installations TV / DVD Repairs 20 Years’ Experience Freeview & Digital Recorders, Sales & Installations. Tel. 01454 774045 / 07890 336310
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p u e k a W ...to a new year and a new you
With the start of the New Year we think about how we can improve the things we do in our everyday life. It’s the best time to make those changes and kick start the year with how you mean to go on. Why not think about an alternative route to work which will help you get a bit of exercise, be a bit greener and hopefully save you money at the same time! Check out our website for more information on how to get to work without getting in that driving seat www.travelwest.info There are three new or improved bus routes launching in January to help commuters in Filton, Aztec West, Bradley Stoke and Emersons Green areas. The buses will be express services with a higher frequency than normal, helping you get to work. The X18, operated by First, links Aztec west to Emersons Green, which features leather seats and free wifi, will be linking key businesses for commuters and ensuring better connections with other routes. From Monday 21 January to Friday 25 January 2013 inclusive, all travel on the First X18 bus service is free of charge. So just turn up and try the service as many times are you like completely free. From 14 January the existing Wessex Red service 13, from the University of the West of England (UWE) to Bristol city centre, will be extended to link to Bradley Stoke and Filton. The number 19 Wessex Red service is also to be extended to go from UWE into Bristol city centre via Bristol University and a doubling of the frequency of the service. The buses will run more frequently during commuting times to ensure Bradley Stoke to Bristol City centre and the Willow brook Centre, Filton to Bristol City centre. The Wessex Red 13 & 19 services will also be running a free week travel offer for more information on this and the X18 please visit www.travelwest.info
Jonathon Knight, Regional Facilities Manager at Boeing travels a lot for work but is based in their Bristol office. He comments that the extra bus services on the X18 will be a great bonus for his colleagues and local business alike, especially with the added bonus of Wifi. ‘It’s fantastic as you can work on your way in to the office and prepare for the day ahead; You can sit back and relax whilst someone else is driving’ The additional routes will make it easier for people to get in to the office on a morning. As a company we really promote sustainable travel and this will vastly open up the options for people who usually travel in by car.
in partnership with
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Last month, it emerged that Britain really could have a referendum on its future relationship with Europe. here, our local MP Jack Lopresti argues that the time has come to tackle this issue once and for all
It is clear that public disillusionment with the EU is at an all-time high Last month the Prime Minister said the British people must have their say on Europe as he pledged an in/out referendum if the Conservatives win the 2015 General election. It was a speech and a commitment that many of us have waited a long time for. The Prime Minister has made clear that he wants to renegotiate the UK’s relationship with the EU and then give people the “simple choice” between staying in under those new terms, or leaving the EU. The British people haven’t been directly consulted on Europe since 1975 and it’s high time that we had a say again. The next Conservative Manifesto in 2015 will ask for a mandate from the British people for a Conservative Government to negotiate a new settlement with Europe in the next Parliament. And when we have done so, we will give the British people a referendum with a very simple in or out choice – stay in the EU on new terms; or come out altogether. It will be an in-out referendum.
Legislation will be drafted before the next election and, if a Conservative Government is elected, we will introduce the enabling legislation immediately and pass it by the end of that year. We will complete this negotiation and hold this referendum within the first half of the next parliament. The question over the future of the United Kingdom’s relationship has been left open for far too long and there are a number of reasons why now is the time to answer it. Firstly, the European Union is experiencing a period of fundamental change. Internally, the Eurozone crisis is driving a major shift in its structure. Externally, the global economc race that is underway is showing up Europe’s lack of competitiveness against leaner, more dynamic emerging economies such as China, India, and Brazil. These changes are set against increasing unease amongst the peoples of Europe about the direction the EU is going in; the powers it is taking on and what this means for them. Together, these changes are forcing a series of fundamental questions about the future of the EU and Britain’s place within it.
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These questions are inevitable – and we should be playing a leading role in shaping them. Furthermore it is clear that British public disillusionment with the EU is at an all-time high. People feel that it is heading in a direction that they never signed up to. The result is that democratic consent for the EU in Britain is now wafer thin. This question mark is already there
and ignoring it will not make it go away. In response to the Prime Minister’s speech the Labour leader Ed Miliband said: “My position is no – we don’t want an in out referendum”. Labour doesn’t trust the British people to have their say on Europe. It is the Conservatives who are giving us a say over our own future.
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Choir hits highest note by raising nearly £3,000 in charity appeal
The Filtones Choir has celebrated its 30th Anniversary year by raising the grand sum of £2,800 for charities from three concerts which took place in 2012. Those who have benefited have been Eden Grove Methodist Church (where the choir rehearses); the Alzheimer’s Society for its “Singing for the Brain” activities; “Shine” (a charity supporting people with Spina Bifida); and “Heartful Dodgers” (a Southmead and Frenchay Hospitals’ charity).
Every year the Choir aims to raise money for charity with its summer concert, which in 2013 will take place at Eden Grove Methodist Church on Saturday June 29. The charity is normally chosen by the choir from suggestions raised by its members and voted for by them. Each year the members like to support a different charity and prefer it to be local to Bristol and the surrounding area. If anyone reading this would
like to nominate a charity for 2013, the choir will be pleased to consider it, and will be making its final choice before the end of March. Submissions can be made via email to Dorothy.bryant@ btinternet.com or by telephoning 0117 9690654 by the end of February please. This four part harmony choir, whose repertoire includes music to please all tastes from the Beatles to Bach, meets every Wednesday afternoon from 1.45
p.m. to 3.45 p.m. at Eden Grove Methodist Church, Eden Grove, Horfield. We actively seek new members who can sing alto, tenor and bass (sorry sopranos, but we have a waiting list at the moment). Ability to read music is an advantage but not necessary, as learning CDs can be supplied. Please speak initially to the Musical Director, Mike Watson, (Tel 0117 9083778) if you are interested in joining.
applications need to be submitted by application form (no CVs) available from our website www.southernbrooks. org.uk or ring 01454 868570.” See advert on Page 20
morning is £1, including refreshments and all are welcome. The event is being held with the assistance of Filton Town Council.
Filton news in brief Southern Brooks Community Partnership are taking part in a national scheme to “listen” to 500 local residents over the next 12 months. We have opportunities for 5 full time posts @ £8.50 per hour for 51 weeks who will be hosted by Southern Brooks. You will need to be passionate about communities and believe that local people can be the catalyst for change. You will receive comprehensive training and support and work as part of a small team of Community
Organisers. You will need to be able to commit to attending a 3 day residential and to be able to work flexible working hours, including evenings and weekends. A spokesperson said: “We have opportunities working in Patchway, Filton, Bradley Stoke, Yate and Kingswood. “There may be the opportunity to extend the roles beyond the initial 51 weeks, subject to funding. The closing date is 9am Monday 18th February and
l Filton Chest and Heart charity is holding a coffee morning and bottle stall at the Pavilion, Elm Park, on Monday, March 18. The charity raises money for vital medical equipment which is given to local Filton surgeries for use by local people. Admission to the coffee
l BAC BAWA Bowls Club is looking for new members for the 2013 season. Men and women are invited to come along to try this enjoyable and social sport, and free coaching is available for anyone wishing to join. For more information, please call 0117 975 9126.
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Feature When Filton’s talented artist gets ‘in the mood’ he sits down with paint and brushes to recall a memorable occasion. Some of his works have received international acclaim. Des Davies – age 90 – of Northville Road, Filton could hardly have realised that after leaving his wartime service with the RAF he would be devoting his talents to a hobby that would earn him considerable praise. He has devoted much of his spare time recalling his experiences in the airforce. Depicting aircraft and aircrews that he had been connected with in the wartime years. He was, it seems, embarking on a new career. The lounge of his comfy home in Filton displays much of his work. It is, in effect, a picture gallery depicting aircraft and their crews. Many of his pictures are featured in important venues around the country. He leaves no-one to doubt his accomplished talents. On my recent visit to Des I learned that he had followed, for a time, in my footsteps in Derby. On leaving the RAF in May 1953 he joined Rolls-Royce and spent some time in their training school for designer draughtsmen there. On retirement in December 1986 he continued his endearing passion painting true to life portraits of people he had either met or admired. Amongst these was the American film star, Cary Grant who was himself born and bred in Horfield, Bristol. The likeness, as Des has portrayed him, is outstanding and publicly acclaimed. Perhaps lesser known to many is perhaps Des’s closeup to famous American band leader, Glenn Miller. On leave in London on his birthday Des heard that Glenn and his renowned Band of the American Expeditionary Force (AEF) was appearing at the Queensbury Club. A renowned rendezvous for Forces personnel during the war. An admirer of his music – “in the Mood;” “American Patrol” and “Little Brown Jug” are his favourites - Des joined the audience. He strolled to the stage for Glenn’s autograph but was promptly “marched off” back to his seat by a burley security officer. As it turned out this could quite easily have been one
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How Filton artist Des nearly had Glenn Miller’s last-ever autographThis month, Doug Daniels meets wellknown face and talented Filton painter, Des Davies, still producing great pictures at the age of 90
of the band leader’s last signings if not the last, had Des acquired it. After an exciting evening Glenn closed the concert by announcing that in the morning he would be flying to Paris to arrange accommodation for the band who would be performing there. It was the fateful evening of December 14th 1944. As we all know Glenn never arrived in Paris. His plane was either destroyed or crashed and disappeared into the Channel. Des later painted a portrait of Glenn Miller and presented it to Glenn’s nephew, John, on his visit to Fairford in Gloucestershire, pictured. Des is happy to know that his portrait is displayed in the town hall of Glenn’s birthplace in Clarinda, Iowa, USA. We wish Des continued success in his chosen hobby and continuing good health in retirement. l Des is currently painting an original portrait of the Filton Airfield (as it was) with “Concorde” beside the runway. It will be formally presented to Filton Town Council.
Filton Town Council
supporting training for the unemployed...
WANT TO STAND OUT FROM THE CROWD? Filton Town Council are pleased to support FREE training opportunities for those on work related benefit, delivered locally. Courses can help you refresh
your current skills or learn new skills. They can help you with the Universal Credit System and also enhance your employment opportunities.
Courses include: Employability Skills, Careers Advise & Guidance, ICT, CSCS Card, Food Safety, Forklift and much more...
If you are interested in finding out about these opportunities call: 0117 97107883 or complete this form and hand in to Filton Library or Filton Leisure Centre.
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Filtonvoice.co.uk has a new and improved website ... check it out After nearly 18 months of publication, we felt we needed an improved presence online ... for best news coverage, best listings for Filton and best opportunities for local businesses. This specially designed website aims to do all these things and more. l Filton residents can get all the relevant, local news which affects their lives. l Community groups and organisations can upload details of events directly to our new Filton calendar. l And local businesses can reach the people they want to reach with our business directory - giving each firm their OWN web page
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Some of the features of our new site FOR RESIDENTS: The best coverage of all the stories which affect you and your daily life in Filton. And if you misplace your print edition, all previous editions are uploaded on the website
FOR LOCAL GROUPS: We have a comprehensive calendar of what’s going on in Filton every month, onlline and in print. Now you can upload your own events to our website
FOR BUSINESSES: We can offer the complete online package to complement your print advertising. There are banner adverts, listings, enhanced listings and every firm gets its own dedicated page on our website, complete with all your details. Call the numbers below to find out what we can offer your business 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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What’s on in Filton on a regular basis Mondays
Dinky Dolphins, baby and pre-school swimming session, games music and play, 9.30am10.30am. These sessions are first come, first served. £3.50 for 1 adults and up to two children, Filton Sports and Leisure Centre Tea Dance, Filton Folk Centre, 1.45pm-3.45pm 0117 302 6981
Tuesdays
Filton Library, Shields Centre, free one to one IT tuition with our Computer Support Volunteers on Tuesday afternoons. Contact the library to book a session. 10am 1pm NOTE TIME CHANGE Pre-School story and Rhyme time 9.30am, Filton Library, Shields Centre, 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 Dinky Dolphins, baby and pre-school swimming session, games music and play, 10am11am. These sessions are first come, first served. £3.50 for 1 adults and up to two children, Filton Sports and Leisure Centre, term time only Tiddlers and toddlers playgroup, St Peter’s Church Hall, 10amnoon, term time only Filton Ladies, St Andrew’s Church, 2pm-4pm, new members welcome, call 0117 969 1825 Keep Fit Association classes, all welcome, Filton Community Centre, 8-9pm 0117 969 3326 Silver surfers: St Andrews Methodist Youth Centre, Elm Park, BS34 7PS, 10am-noon
(note we’ve changed from Fridays!) Drop-in for ‘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.
Fridays
Dinky Dolphins, baby and pre-school swimming session, games music and play, 10am11am. These sessions are first come, first served. £3.50 for 1 adults and up to two children, Filton Sports and Leisure Centre, term time only, 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, Evening Worship Kids street dance classes(5 - 16 years of age), every Sunday @ Charborough Road Primary School, Filton, 5.15 - 6pm or 6 7pm (depending on age/ability), £3.50/£4.00 per session (pay as you go). Lots of fun, make new
friends and very good exercise too!! Please phone Emma on 07725 612088 or email her at emmacwyatt@hotmail.com for more information.
Weekdays
Coffee shop, 9am – 12:30pm, St Peter’s Church, Filton
St Andrews Youth Centre
For young people: Mondays 6-9pm Towards Independence Awards for 16-25 year olds with mild learning difficulties and autistic spectrum disorder. A range of accreditted awards to improve their independence skills and also make new friends! Various modules available as 6-12 week courses, £10 for one course or £15 for two. Contact the office for information! Tuesdays 7-9pm Youth club for Secondary School Year 7 and 8s (11-13yrs) £1 entry - a range of fun activities on offer Wednesdays 7-9.30pm Youth club for Secondary School Year 9-13 (13-19yrs) £1 entry - a range of fun activities on offer! Thursdays 7-9.30pm Youth club for Secondary School Years 10+ (14yrs - up to 25yrs for those with learning difficulties). £1 entry - a range of activities on offer! Fridays 3.45-4.30pm (termtime) Street dance sessions! £2 per session for 9-13-year olds! Bring a drink as you’ll get hot and sweaty!! 6.30-8.30pm Girls’ Night! For Secondary School Years 7-13 (11-19yrs) £1 entry - a range of fun and interesting activities on offer just for young women! The youth club programme has a range of activities including sports, arts/crafts, roller skating, quizzes, computers, games, Wii, karaoke, and cooking. We’re also a C-card access point for condoms! Also tuck shop and pool tables available at subsidised rates! We also do lots of trips and weekends away! Contact the office for holiday times as we usually change the programme to do more trips! Contact us at 0117 9691938 or standrewsmyc@hotmail.co.uk
To advertise, contact Richard on 0777 555 0607, Emma on 0771 577 0448 or Wendy on 0771 577 0242. Email: adverts@filtonvoice.co.uk
February, 2013
E: richard@filtonvoice.co.uk
Pyramid Youth Club
Mondays: 6.30-8pm: Inters 1012 yrs. activities include football, basketball and other sports, pool, table tennis, computers, cookery and craft, tuck shop 8pm-10pm: Seniors 13+, activities include circuit training, football, basketball and other sports, pool, table tennis, computers, cookery and craft, tuck shop, Subs £1 (50p members) Tuesdays: 6.30-7.30: Junior Judo 5-12 yrs; 7.30-9pm: Senior Judo 13+, £2.50 children/students, £3 adults Wednesday: Occasional events in or out of Club. Thursdays: 6.30-7.45: Juniors 5-9 yrs, activities include games,
filtonvoice
computers, cookery, tuck shop. 8pm-10pm: Seniors 13+, activities include DJing, football, basketball and other sports, pool, table tennis, computers, cookery and craft, tuck shop, Subs £1 (50p members) Friday: 7.30-10pm: Seniors 13+, activities include music (drums, guitar, keyboard), football, basketball and other sports, pool, table tennis, computers, cookery and craft, tuck shop. Subs £1 (50p members). Including DJing music mixing, vocal skills Based at 470 Filton Avenue, contact Margaret Morris 0117 9691315
Filton Community Centre 983 6500
Mondays: Tea dance, 1.45-3.45,
www.filtonvoice.co.uk
call 302 6981. Zumba fitness class, 6.30-7.30 Tuesdays: Keep fit, 2-4pm, 969 3326; Flower arranging, 2-4pm, 01454 412 087; Dog training, 7-9pm, 01454 616630; Pilates, 7-9pm, 502 2411; AA, 7.30-9.30; Cacti club (3rd Tues), call 950 3604 Wednesdays: Pilates, 10-12; Dawn James Art, 962 2982; Camera Club, 7.30-9.30, 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,
45
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, 9th February
Filton Library, Chatterbooks: children’s reading group at 2.30pm. Suitable for keen readers in years 5 & 6. Ask staff for details. Visit Filton library on Saturday 9th February and celebrate National Libraries Day. Borrow at least 3 items and you will be entered into a Free Prize Draw with the chance to win an ereader and a range of DVDs. There will be half price hire on all DVDs, free reservations and more.
Tues, 12th February 7.30pm, Filton Town Council Finance Committee Pavilion, Pavilion, Elm Park
Weds, 13th February - Sat, 16th February St Andrew’s Players will be celebrating 30 years of performing pantomimes with a production of “Sleeping Beauty”. This traditional family panto will take place at St Andrew’s Church Hall. Filton on 13 – 16 February 2013, starting at 7.30pm. Also Saturday matinee, 2.30pm. Tickets are priced at £6 for adults and £3 for children. To book your seats, you can call the Box Office on 0845 1540950. More information is available on www.sapfilton.co.uk
Sat, 16th February Filton Library, February Fun:
crafts and stories for children aged 3-11
Sat, 23rd February
The 85 year old Stoke Gifford Branch of the Royal British Legion is holding a fundraising concert for the Legion’s Poppy Appeal/Welfare Fund featuring the ever popular Westerleigh Showband. The concert is on Saturday 23rd February 2013, in the Church Rooms, Stoke Gifford, starting at 7.30pm. Tickets paid for in advance are £5; at the door-£6. Please contact Branch President Brian Hewitt MBE on 01454 775632. The Band are performing for free, with all proceeds going to the Legion’s Poppy Appeal/ Welfare Fund to help fund the legion’s welfare work with current and ex military personnel and their families. St Andrew’s Youth Centre, 7pm, Quiz Night in aid of the Julian Trust homeless shelter in central Bristol. £2 entry, teams of 4-6 people, raffle, and refreshments available.
Tues, 26th February
Filton Town Council Full Council meeting 7.30pm, in the Pavilion.
Friday 8th March
St Andrew’s Youth Centre ,6-9pm we will be holding an event for International Women’s Day. See advert Page 20.
Sun, 17th March
Indoor As New Sale (10.30 am - 12.30 pm), Abbeywood Community School, New Road, Stoke Gifford, BS34 8SF Not just a baby and children’s sale - household goods, kitchenware, bedding, books, dvds, cds and much more. No need to man a table. Register as a seller, label and price your items, drop off and we do the rest (we keep 20% for our school fundraising). Seller places are limited so please register as soon as possible to receive an information pack. For further information please email facs@ abbeywoodschool.com.
Mon, 18th March
Filton Chest and Heart charity is holding a coffee morning and bottle stall at the Pavilion, Elm Park, on Monday, March 18. The charity raises money for vital medical equipment which is given to local Filton surgeries for use by local people. Admission to the coffee morning is £1, including refreshments and all are welcome. The event is being held with the assistance of Filton Town Council.
Sunday 24th March
St Andrew’s Youth Centre, Haircut for Little Princess Trust! - We’re looking for people to donate at least 7 inches of their hair to a wonderful charity who make wigs for children who have lost their hair due to cancer. We
have the lovely Headspace salon in Bedminster willing to help us out with 10 haircuts for free! Please see www.littleprincesses. org.uk for charity and hair donation info. If people could contact me on 07789 947506 or standrewsmyc@hotmail.co.uk for more details and to register interest!
Sat, 20th April
Ladies’ Fashion Show, Abbeywood Community School, New Road, Stoke Gifford BS34 8SF. Doors open at 3.00 pm. Admission just £2.00 per person by ADVANCE TICKET only (email facs@abbeywoodschool. com). The clothes are from quality high street stores - M&S including Per Una and Autograph ranges, Debenhams, Next, BHS, River Island, Dorothy Perkins, Oasis to name a few. Also a few designer brand names such as DKNY, Rocha John Rocha, Timberland, Ted Baker etc. All items are between 30% and 60% off, sometimes up to 80% off! Clothes start at £5.00 and are always in season. Coming up: Filton Twinning Association fundraising events: Saturday 20th April 7.30pm for 8pm start - Quiz Night in the Pavillion at Elm Park, £5 entry including hot supper, BYO alcohol, raffle! Saturday 18th May 8pm Wine & Cheese Night in the Pavillion at Elm Park, more details coming soon!
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 scouts
46
T: 0777 555 0607
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February, 2013
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