Filtonvoice April 2025

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filtonvoice April 2025 Issue 162

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Medal haul for kickboxers, Page 9

PUZZLES PAGE 14 | FILTON TOWN COUNCIL PAGES 16&17 | WHAT'S ON PAGES 28&29

Scout leader John retires after 20 years with Filton group.

Pages 3-5

Station 'should be named Brabazon' Page 6

Brass band homeless after dispute with centre Full story, Pages 10&11 SERVICING from

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Contacts Richard Coulter Editor and publisher

0777 555 0607 | richard@filtonvoice.co.uk

You can find Filtonvoice on Facebook www.facebook. com/filtonvoice and on Twitter @filtonvoice

Shane Gibson Editorial and Advertising sales

Nine-bed HMO plan for Filton main road home Filton could have another large HMO after plans were submitted to change 630 Southmead Rd from a 3/4 bed home to a nine-bed HMO. Papers filed as part of the application say there are no licensed HMOs close to the site, on the corner with Braemar Avenue and opposite the BAWA field. A two storey side extension is proposed as part of the plan.

The proposal is to extend and convert the loft of the existing dwelling to provide nine bedrooms with en-suites and kitchenettes with communal facilities.

0770 674 1200 | shane@filtonvoice.co.uk

COMPLAINTS If you have a complaint about anything in the Filtonvoice, contact the Editor using the details below. We take complaints seriously and aspire to follow the Code of Conduct of the NUJ (National Union of Journalists), which holds journalists to a high standard of behaviour.

Further details of the complaints process can be found on the Voice website www.localvoicenetwork.co.uk, or can be obtained by contacting the publisher, below.

EDITOR’S NOTE: Filtonvoice is independent. We cannot take responsibility for content or accuracy of adverts, and it is advertisers’ responsibility to conform to all relevant legislation.

We cannot vouch for any services offered although we have used some of the services. Opinions are not necessarily those of the editor.

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

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News

Scouting hero retires after 20 years in Filton After 20 years, 1st Filton Scout group is saying a fond farewell to one of its most influential leaders.

John Cahill is handing over the reins as trustee and group lead volunteer (previously group Scout leader) as he retires from Scouting this Easter.

John first became involved with the Scout movement in 1992, when he attended the AGM of 204th Bristol, the group his son was in.

After volunteering to help on the parent rota, little did he know that this would lead to a 33-year involvement in Scouting.

Within six months, John was leading the Scout troop.

Another 12 months on, he was the group Scout leader (GSL). An

eventful few years followed as the group failed to find a permanent home and had to move from place to place.

This, and other factors, led to dwindling numbers before the group closed permanently in 2005.

This may have been the end of 204th Bristol, but it was not the end of John’s journey in Scouting — the next adventure was only just the beginning as he, along with a few of the remaining leaders, moved just down the road to 1st Filton.

Over the next few years, John represented the group in various guises – a GSL, chair and treasurer as well as leading all of the different sections.

During this time, the group

John pictured on his last Scout camp in 2024

hit an all-time low with just 18 young people and three leaders.

With very little money to survive on, the group nearly folded on more than one occasion.

In 2011, things began to look up as a new chair, treasurer and

secretary were found. With a sound structure in place, the group could begin to grow.

By the end of 2019, the group Turn to Page 4

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News John cuts a cake to celebrate 70 years of 1st Filton Scout group

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Scout leader John steps down From Page 3 had nearly 80 young people, but John was still multi-tasking, leading or supporting across 1st Filton.

After a brief hiatus during the Covid pandemic, the group once again began to grow.

John facilitated the opening of new Beavers and Cub sections to accommodate the increasing numbers. He was kept busy leading both sections, as well as often stepping in to help at Scouts and overseeing the smooth running of the group as a whole.

In January this year, the Scouting census recorded 118 young people and 26 leaders in the group.

And now, a new Scout section is needed to accommodate the number of Cubs moving up.

Scouting highlights

When asked about the highlights of his time in Scouting, John

recalls some of the early Scout camps that he was involved with. He said: “My first Scout summer camp was in August 1992, a farmer’s field overlooking Sand Bay. Unfortunately, it was one of those years when a hurricane/tornado went up the Bristol Channel. The camp was destroyed – large marquee broken, troop tents torn apart and scattered across the field. We abandoned camp.

"My second Scout camp was Easter the following year. Lovely farmer’s field at Cymdu in Wales.

Unfortunately, Wales was struck by a snowstorm. More troop tents destroyed. The Scouts loved it as they got to sleep in the Land Rover.

"Millennium camp was an Avon county camp at Tyntesfield Estate … probably around 4,000 young people and adults.

"It rained continually before and during the camp – classic pictures of kids in puddles upto-and-over their welly boots. It

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April, 2025

Bookings are open for COVID-19 vaccinations this spring

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News was eventually abandoned and, typically, when parents came to pick up their children, the sun was shining.”

Fortunately, Scout camps were not always so disastrous, although John did recount another memorable event: “One summer camp we took all of Saturday to transport and put up the tents and marquee. The next day, we had a visit from the farmer who said we were camping in the wrong field!”

These events did not put John off taking the young people away on camps and over the years he has spent many nights under canvas.

Fortunately, the weather was kind for once last September for John’s final group camp. He said: “My final camp at Woodhouse was the largest I had ever taken away – around 100 young people from 1st Filton plus 20 adults ... and the sun shone.” A fitting end to Scouting nights away.

Sharing some final words,

filtonvoice

John highlighted the support from Filton Town Council and the local community. He added: “1st Filton have been very fortunate over the last few years with the fantastic support from Filton Town Council and local councillors. This has enabled 1st Filton to improve the hut which in turn has enabled the Group to grow and accommodate the young people we currently have.”

Without a doubt, 1st Filton would not be where it is today if it wasn’t for the hard-work and dedication of John.

Over the years, he has given thousands of hours to both the group and to Scouting in general.

A generation of young people in Filton have grown up knowing him as Akela — their Beaver, Cub or Scout leader. As a group, we would like to say a massive thank you to him for all he has done.

To send a message of thanks to John, email secretary@1stfiltonscouts.co.uk.

Hazel Boyes

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John has many fond memories of trips out with the Scouts

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News

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April, 2025

'New station should be named Brabazon' A bid to name the new train station at the heart of north Bristol's airfield development, 'Brabazon', has been launched by the Conservative candidate for the next West of England metro mayor.

Currently referred to as the ‘North Filton’ train station, the former lord mayor Steve Smith says it should be renamed ‘Brabazon Station’ in recognition of the site's heritage.

Mr Smith's call has been backed by local councillors Sanjay Shambu and Jo Buddharaju.

The Brabazon development features 6,500 new homes, a vibrant new town, and a 19,000-capacity arena housed in a converted hangar at the former Filton Airfield, located near major employers such as Airbus, GKN, and Rolls-Royce.

Mr Smith says the new train station is much needed and it

"With the arena and major employers nearby, the need for efficient public transport here is enormous.

“The plans have dragged on but we must get it built to cope with the growing demand – and certainly before the arena opens.

"As mayor, I will Steve Smith, centre, with councillor Sanjay prioritise getting Shambhu, left, and councillor Jo Buddharaju, it built within two right years. And I believe the station should be called should pay tribute to the rich Brabazon Station as a aviation history of the area, tribute to the aviation heritage of which includes the Bristol Type this site and the exciting future it 167 Brabazon airliner. represents.”

He said: “This site is the Local councillors have largest brownfield site in the joined forces with the mayoral area, and it is fast becoming candidate, backing plans to home to the new Brabazon improve transport links. community.

Councillor Sanjay Shambhu

said: “Renaming the station to Brabazon will help reflect the new community being established here.

"And it would pay homage to the amazing Brabazon plane developed and built here locally.”

Councillor Jo Buddharaju said: “With the new Bristol arena going to be based in the Brabazon hangar, I can't think of a better name for our new station that I know Steve Smith is working on to help ensure is open on time.”

Mr Smith added that brownfield developments are essential to protect the green belt.

“As Mayor for the West of England my approach will be simple.

"I will do everything possible to support and facilitate brownfield development on regeneration sites like this to build the homes we need."

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News

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Travel through aviation's culinary past A culinary adventure takes flight at Aerospace Bristol this Easter.

From Saturday April 5 to Sunday 27, visitors to the aviation museum are invited to Chocs Away! A Tasty Time Travel Adventure — a trail offering an exciting journey through time, exploring meals enjoyed by pilots and passengers at key moments in aviation history.

Families will have the chance to take on a variety of foodthemed challenges as they travel through aviation’s culinary past.

Charlie Clark, learning manager at Aerospace Bristol, said: “What we eat and drink while flying has evolved dramatically over the past century. This Easter, we’re bringing that evolution to life in an exciting, hands-on way.

"It’s fascinating to see how innovations in food technology have paralleled advances in aviation, from simple thermoses

to zero-gravity dining solutions.”

The trail includes the Bristol Scout and Bristol Fighter, where visitors will discover how early aviators stayed warm with thermoses of Bovril.

At the WWII station, guests can explore wartime rationing and how it affected pilots and passengers.

The Space Station will feature displays of astronaut ice cream alongside the innovative capillary cup, specially designed by an astronaut to mimic Earth-like drinking in zero gravity.

The Concorde station showcases the height of luxury air travel dining, where passengers enjoyed gourmet meals while flying at twice the speed of sound.

Chocs Away! A Tasty Time Travel Adventure is included with general museum admission.

For more information, visit: aerospacebristol.org/easter

Wills and Probate without the mystery

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y sister and I sorted out our parents’ estate about four or five years ago. Our brother has been MIA in Australia for years; we have no idea what he’s been up to, and he didn’t come back for anything to do with our parents’ care or even their funerals.

Suddenly, he’s in town, ranting and raving about his share of the inheritance. Are we up the creek without a paddle?

The very first thing you need to look at is the Last Will and Testament for each of your parents. If it does say “everything to my children in equal amounts” then unfortunately, your mysterious brother does have a claim, despite his absence.

Given it sounds like your parents passed a little while ago, it would depend on what’s left in the estate and whether you and your sister dispersed the remaining value of it. Nevertheless, he does have a claim if that’s what it says in the will, and if there’s been a grant of probate then it was down to you

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April, 2025

WEST OF ENGLAND MAYORAL ELECTION THURSDAY 1ST MAY

n io g re r ou r fo n la p se n se on m m co A Let’s get our region moving (at last!) with a Mayor who will:

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Bristol-based The Window Hub progresses onatgreen Coach delighted team'sgoals medal haul April, 2025

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News

By Shane Gibson Bristol-based home improvement Acompany, local kickboxing team hasis The Window Hub, returned Bristol anover aiming toto plant 3,000with trees impressive haul of medals after the next three years as part of its competing in the Wako Bulgarian commitment to being a climate European Cup in Plovdiv. conscious business.

Representing GB Fit The trees will be planted Kickboxing Gym, the teamat Boyd Valleyexceptionally Lake, which is located performed under in Bitton.

This of is in addition to the guidance their coach, continuing itsSharon policy ofGill recycling Filton’s own, —a all old framesWorld so theyChampion don’t end up seven-times in in landfill. her own right.

The window installation company Consisting of four young athletes, all aged between 11 was launched during lockdown and 15, the team returned home in 2020 by seasoned industry with multiples of gold, and professional Danny, whosilver wanted to bronze create amedals. business that was “built on Speaking hergreed”. team's quality ratheron than achievements, said:The “It From humble Sharon beginnings, was absolutely amazing!

Window Hub now operates from "The divisions were stacked a head office and showroom in out with the top European kids Staple Hill in Bristol with offices, against each other, so it’s really showrooms and installation depots difficult. across "To the seeSouth them West. come away with

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In fact, a new showroom is into your home can be stressful, scheduled to open this month. so we have introduced as many Local kickboxers Sharon centre, atasthe Wako to Bulgarian Danny launchedwith Thecoach Window Hub Gill,initiatives possible be fair and EuropeanheCup in Plovdiv because wanted to be much reasonable in our approach to give more than just a double glazing our customers the best experience gold medals is unbelievable. competition was at its highest. company. possible, ” he said.

"I’m really happy with them.”

Gold medals were won by “We know that choosing new “Sales begin andAmelia end with With over 2,000 competitors Cristiano Firth, Cussen windows and inviting treating customers properly. from all over Europe,someone the level of and Anya-Rose Goldby, allAnd of

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whom train at It the Horfield-based you know what? is so easy to be gym. if you don’t cut corners.” amazing and Anya-Rose AndAmelia the Window Hub has thealso came home withtothe gold customer reviews prove it –medal and the three-and-a-half foot 90% of reviews for The Window tall trophy for the prestigious Hub onevent, Trustpilot are for five team consisting of teams stars, with customers competing from allcelebrating over the the company’s professionalism, world. friendliness, and attention Lookingtidiness, to the future, toSharon detail. is set on Team Bristol’s The hard workinofthe Danny and involvement 2032 summer his company was also recently Olympics. recognised and commended, with She added: “I am hoping that Kickboxing [already recognised The Window Hub beinganamed the Olympic will make into ‘Best in thesport] South West’ at theitG24 the 2032 games.

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April, 2025

News

Band left homeless after dispute with centre A leading Filton-based brass band claim they have been 'evicted' from the Filton Community Centre building at Elm Park which they were using for rehearsals.

Filton Concert Brass say they are now 'homeless' and are seeking to return to St Andrew's Church temporarily.

The band say that the dispute centred on an issue with storage of instruments. They say they had agreed storage arrangements before beginning the hire last year.

Filton Community Centre say they had granted permission for 'a few' instruments but not 'xylophones, big drums and everything else'.

A spokeswoman for the band said: "We have been told out of the blue that we are no longer welcome at Filton Community Centre, which has been our new home since January and we have been told to remove all our

equipment with immediate effect, giving us no time to make other arrangements!

"Last year we moved into St Andrew's Methodist Church which was really great, however there wasn't quite enough room to store our equipment so Filton Community Centre invited us to consider their upstairs room to rehearse in and told us that there were several options open to us to store our equipment.

"Members from our committee met with members of their committee and we were shown round the FCC and shown the rooms which they thought would be suitable for us to hire on a permanent basis.

"Members of our committee had an in-person meeting with their full committee and sorted out the details, terms of hire etc Two members from the FCC committee also came over to St Andrew's to look for themselves at our equipment to check it would be okay to fit in their suggested storeroom. All was agreed and arrangements were made for the band to make FCC our new home.

"We were hiring the FCC twice a week and we also booked the entire venue for our concert two weeks ago and they asked us to do a joint concert in the summer.

"We thought we had a good relationship with them. We paid our hire fees straight away etc

"All was going well until earlier in March when our Band Manager received a phone call from their Chairperson, accusing us of using their storeroom without the consent of the Committee or Trustees.

"She said that no such agreement had ever been made and that was her office and she demanded that we remove our equipment with immediate effect.

"Later we received a message from a member of staff confirming that the band was no longer welcome in any capacity and we needed to remove everything instantly and not come back!!

"We had no choice but to gather a small group of us to go to the FCC to remove our equipment out into the carpark while two of their committee members and a staff member watched over us.

"We are now in emergency

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News

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talks with St Andrew's Methodist Church to see if we can move back to our original home as Filton Concert Brass now finds itself with no home.

"Filton Concert Brass has worked hard this past year to relocate back into the heart of Filton and be a part of the community.

David Gillard from the centre said: "There was permission granted for a few instruments, not two xylophones, three big drums, and everything else.

"We agreed a few things but we could not tolerate them taking over one complete room. They took over our office.”

“There’s two sides to the story, they wouldn’t have got it all in one room.

"It was not agreed, and we can get out trustees together to prove it." l Pictured right, band members removing their instruments and left, the band at a previous concert.

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NEWS FROM YOUR LOCAL MP WITH CLAIRE HAZELGROVE, FILTON & BRADLEY STOKE MP

PM sees our NHS teams in action THANK you to everyone who joined my recent ‘Coffee with Claire’ event in Bradley Stoke.

Thanks also to those who attended advice surgeries in Patchway and Filton, or spoke with me and our volunteer team on the doorstep recently in Downend, Filton, Winterbourne and Little Stoke.

This month alone, my team and I are working on 315 new cases for residents.

In the last few weeks, I have spoken in the House of Commons on the vital role of local defence companies in backing Ukraine, the need for public service reform, tackling the rise of misinformation and disinformation, and the support needed for innovative local start-ups.

Keir Starmer and Claire Hazelgrove at the North Bristol Community Diagnostic Centre

On a personal note, I’m pleased to have been appointed as parliamentary private secretary to Darren Jones and the Treasury team.

It was fantastic to welcome Prime Minister Keir Starmer back to our community to mark the government providing two million more NHS appointments within our first year – seven months early! He saw the great work that the team at the North Bristol Community Diagnostic Centre in Patchway does.

I’m pleased that our area will receive 19,076 more urgent dental appointments from April.

I’ve long campaigned on this issue and while there’s still more to do, including reforming the dental contract, progress is being made.

In these uncertain times, I fully support the Prime Minister’s international leadership and plan to increase defence spending to 2.5% of GDP from 2027.

We must maintain our national security, alongside that of Europe and Ukraine. This requires difficult decisions, but the first duty of any government is to protect its people.

I was pleased to support the government’s Crime and Policing Bill, which includes the ability to seize vehicles like off-road bikes in parks and dangerous e-scooters on pavements.

This is alongside recruiting 13,000 neighbourhood police officers and PCSOs nationally, and a 6.6% funding increase to Avon

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and Somerset Police.

I’m proud of the important work happening at every level in our community. I recently visited SGS College’s WISE campus in Stoke Gifford, to view their cutting-edge facilities.

I celebrated International Women’s Day with Downend’s Christ Church Infant School, where girls took part in the ‘biggest ever football session’.

I joined a community breakfast at Mangotsfield Community School, led by brilliant head teacher Hetty Blackmore, to discuss how we can improve outcomes for the most disadvantaged students.

I also visited the University of Bath’s IAAPS in Emersons Green where advanced propulsion innovation is helping shape the future of flight!

Next month’s ‘Coffee with Claire’ will be in Frenchay.

You can sign up at clairehazelgrove. co.uk/coffee-with-claire or facebook.com/ ClaireRHazelgrove If you need support, please get in touch at claire.hazelgrove.mp@parliament.uk.

BUSINESS FOR SALE

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The majority of our work comes from the internet with several large contracts including over 7,000 followers on ebay we have been pleased to fill.

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April, 2025

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Committee areas shake-up 'long overdue'

By Adam Postans, LDRS reporter Four new area committees where residents can confront South Gloucestershire Council leaders and help shape policy are being introduced – after similar meetings under the existing setup attracted an average of just four attendees.

Householders, town and parish councillors, police, the voluntary sector and community groups will be invited to attend the sessions when the 18-month pilot project launches in May. The expanded area committees will replace the 14 current ‘community engagement forums’ (CEFs), which will be scrapped, where attendance has plummeted to next to nothing since the pandemic.

Another problem has been that because there are so many CEFs, organisations like Avon & Somerset Constabulary have struggled to attend them.

A cabinet member from the council’s Lib Dem/Labour

administration will chair each of the four committees, which will broadly mirror the new parliamentary constituencies and cover Thornbury West & Yate West; Thornbury East and Yate East; Filton and Bradley Stoke; and Bristol North East, North East Somerset and Hanham.

They will not have decisionmaking powers but the local authority says they are a way of increasing its Community Conversations agenda to truly listen to the voices of the public.

The four new committee areas — Filton is in the brown zone, along with Bradley Stoke and Frenchay The idea is that residents can speak directly to council leaders so their views can be considered earlier in the process to determine policy and potential service changes.

Opposition Conservative councillors welcomed the proposal, approved by cabinet on Monday, March 10, but questioned the size of the committees’ areas.

Tory group leader Cllr Sam Bromiley said: “What evidence

have we followed that’s led us to the area committees model and what would be the measure of success or what outcome would lead you to say this has been value for money?”

Community development and partnerships service director Mark Pullin replied: “Over the last few years we’ve done extensive consultation on the Community Conservation approach.

“Ultimately, however, it will be residents’ satisfaction levels and trust in their ability to influence decision-making of the council which will be a key criteria.”

Council co-leader Cllr Ian Boulton said: “These CEFs have been a bit of a blot on our diary for many of us who’ve attended, knowing that we’re the only ones there, so to have any opportunity to engage in a fuller way with residents and town and parish councils is really welcome.

“This has been a long time coming.”

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Puzzles for all

The FIEND

Each row, column and square (9 spaces each) needs to be filled out with the numbers 1-9, without repeating any numbers within the row, column or square.

For younger readers

NOTE After feedback from readers, we have made The Fiend SLIGHTLY easier!

Easter Word Search

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Use the phone keypad to decode the clues.

For example: 2 could be A, B or C ... and 5678 could be LOST

chocolate

daffodil

easter

egg

flowers

hunt

parade

spring

Copyright © www.ActivityVillage.co.uk - Keeping Kids Busy

Easier sudoku Solutions Txtpert

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To advertise, contact shane@filtonvoice.co.uk and on 0770 674 1200 or Richard on 0777 555 0607

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Call 0117 377 0644 or 07415 658 205

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Grass cutting, hedge and shrub trimming, weeding, planting, felling small trees, winter preparation, clearing, small painting jobs and other maintenance work.

Please call for a no-obligation chat

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Filton Town Council Planning applications in March

Applications Unit G3a Bolingbroke Way, Patchway Display of 2 nonilluminated fascia signs.

26 Kenmore Crescent Change of use from dwelling (Class C3) to small HMO for up to 5 occupants (Class C4).

8 Charlton Avenue Discharge of condition 13 (CEMP) attached to permission P22/03056/F. Erection of 5 detached dwellings with new access and associated works 32 Bridgman Grove The erection of a single storey rear extension, which would extend beyond the rear wall of the original house by 3.40m, for which the maximum height would be 3.80m, and for which the height of the eaves would be 3.10m. l Filton Town Council notes this application.

Land At Rolls Royce Site Gloucester Road North Filton Erection of a two storey side and single storey rear extension and installation of 1no. rear dormer to facilitate change of use of dwelling (Class C3) to 9no. bedroom, 9no. person House in Multiple Occupation

(HMO) (Sui Generis) as defined in the Town and Country Planning (Use Classes) Order 1987 (as amended) with associated works. l Filton Town Council Notes this Application with request for a parking survey to be undertaken with a lined layout in relation to the density to the building.

House in Multiple Occupation (HMO) (Sui Generis) as defined in the Town and Country Planning (Use Classes) Order 1987. l Filton Town Council Notes this Application with request for a parking survey to be undertaken with a lined layout in relation to the density to the building.

Land At Rolls Royce Site Gloucester Road North Filton Demolition of existing buildings.

Erection of 1 goods inward building for receiving small parcels, with associated works and landscaping. l Filton Town Council notes this application.

Decisions

Tanglewood 2A Rannoch Road Erection of single storey side/rear extension to provide additional living accommodation. l Filton Town Council notes that the Planning Officer should have interest in the intended use of the proposed single side/rear storey space due to lack of internal access of the extension.

Land At 18 Wallscourt Road Demolition of garage. Erection of 1 self-build dwelling with associated works. Erection of a two storey rear extension and 1 rear dormer to existing dwelling to form additional living accommodation. Refusal

630 Southmead Road Erection of a two storey side and single storey rear extension and installation of 1 rear dormer to facilitate change of use of dwelling (Class C3) to 9 bedroom, 9 person

Council meetings April

8th, 7pm, Full Council Finance & General Purposes Active Nation Filton, Studio 1 15th, 7pm, Planning Committee Active Nation Filton, FTC Council room 29th, 7pm, Full Council Active Nation Filton, Studio 1

May 13th, 7pm, Full Council Finance & General Purposes Active Nation Filton, Studio 1

Contact Filton Town Council Town Clerk Simon Davies Visit The Council Office is open to the public Monday to Friday 9am – 4pm, and is located at Elm Park, Filton, BS34 7PS. Call 01454 803918 Email Town Clerk - town.clerk@filtontowncouncil.gov.uk General Enquiries – office@filtontowncouncil.gov.uk Website www.filtontowncouncil.gov.uk

5 Mayville Avenue Erection of an outbuilding to provide a home office/games room. Approve with conditions

640 Southmead Road Erection of a single storey side and rear extension to form additional living accommodation. Conversion of garage to living accommodation.

Approve with conditions Site Off Of Golf Course Lane Non material amendment to permission P24/02045/RVC (formerly P23/03353/F) to amend condition 18 to allow for partial discharge of the condition and subsequently the phased commencement of development. Approve nonmaterial amendment 24 Wallscourt Road Change of use from dwelling (Class C3) to a small house in multiple occupation (HMO) for up to 5no. residents (Class C4) as defined in the Town and Country Planning (Use Classes) Order 1987 (as amended) (retrospective). Refusal

69 Gloucester Road North Works to 1 lime tree to pollard back to previous points covered by TPO 0618 dated.

Approve with conditions

606 Southmead Road Erection of a single storey rear and side extension with garage conversion to form additional living accommodation.

Approve with Conditions

798A Filton Avenue Continued use as small HMO (Use Class C4) for 3-6 people. Approve certificate of lawfulness

View all planning applications and decisions, visit developments. southglos.gov.uk/onlineapplications

Filton planning applications Each month, all planning applications affecting Filton are considered by the council planning committee and responses are sent to South Glos Council before final decisions are made.

The council is keen to engage local people in the process both by inviting them to attend the monthly meeting - see details left, LEARN TO usually the 3rd Tuesday of the month - and Swim England Learn to also to submit Swim Programme views on the Skilled Instructors – Patient & experienced applications.

Comments Flexible Class Times – Easy scheduling made by the planning Engaging Lessons – Learn, play, and grow in committee S the water!

LESSON to current START 5!

FROM £ applications can be seen above

SWIM!

LEARN MORE

Filton Town Council Filton Athletic Football Club

Cycle track update

Filton Athletic Football Club are set to return to the football field at Elm Park next season.

The return is due to the town council working with the club to install a fence around the field and purchase portable dugouts.

The club, whcih plays in the Gloucester County League, has been playing home games in Southmead as league rules require the fence and dugout.

The £10,000 cost of the project is being shared by the council as well as fundraising by the club.

As previously reported, the cycle speedway track at Elm Park is set for a total revamp this Spring.

Filton Town Council wants to create a better facility for cycle speedway as well as for roller skating, remote control cars and running.

A specialist firm will resurface the track into four lanes as well as reshaping the corners.

To enable the work to begin in April, the gym equipment currently in the centre of the track will be pernanently moved to the top of the field at Elm Park.

Local police 'surgeries'

Filton Festival 2025

Our Beat Team, led by PC Gareth Pretlove, will be holding dropin surgeries for residents at the Active Nation centre throughout 2025.

These are for people to come along, raise concerns or ask for advice on any matter which might be affecting them.

The dates are: • Thursday 17th April 17:30 hours • Thursday 15th May 17:30 hours • Friday 13th June 17:30 hours • Friday 11th July 17:30 hours • Friday 8th August 17:30 hours • Friday 5th September 17:30 hours • Friday 3rd October 17:30 hours • Friday 7th November 10:00 hours • Friday 28th November 17:30 hours • Wednesday 17th December 10:00 hours There will also be a bicycle security marking events during the Easter holiday. It will be on Monday 7th April from 10am-2pm at Elm Park. The marking will be for all, but primarily for kids to bring their bikes up.

Save the date, July 6th This year's Filton Festival will be held on Sunday, July 6th after the successful 2024 event.

It will again be staged on the top field at Elm Park with an array of food stalls, drink, entertainment, music, dance, local groups and more for visitors.

A tender is currently out for organisations to run the event, which was enjoyed by large numbers last year.

The town council is now asking local organisations to 'save the date' and to enquire about opportunities to display or perform.

Last year, in addition to dance displays in the main area, there was a music stage featuring local bands.

To find out more, email office@filtontowncouncil. gov.uk

Jamie Oliver’s Hot Cross Buns Have a pukka Easter with these brilliant buns.

Method 1. Add the milk and 50ml water to a small pan and place over a low heat for a few minutes.

2. Add the butter to a separate pan and place over a low heat for a few minutes, or until melted, then set aside.

3. Transfer the warmed milk mixture to a medium bowl and stir in the yeast.

4. Sift the flour into a large bowl, then add 1 teaspoon of sea salt, the spices, a few good scrapings of nutmeg and the sugar. Finely chop the stem ginger and stir it into the mix.

7. Return the dough to a flour-dusted bowl, cover with a damp tea towel and leave to prove in a warm place for at least an hour, or until doubled in size.

8. Transfer the dough to a clean flour dusted work surface.

Knock the air out by bashing it with your fist, then sprinkle over the dried fruit and mixed peel and knead into the dough.

9. Preheat the oven to 190°C, then grease and line a large baking tray.

5. Make a well in the centre and pour in the melted butter, followed by the yeast mixture.

In a separate bowl, beat the

10. Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces and roll each into a ball, evenly spacing them out on the tray as you go. Cover

egg and add it to the bowl.

with the tea towel and leave in a warm place for a further 30

6. Using a fork, mix well until you have a rough dough, then transfer to a clean flour dusted work surface and knead for around 10 minutes, or until soft and springy.

minutes, or until doubled in size.

Ingredients: Serves 12 • 200ml semi-skimmed milk • 55g unsalted butter • 14g dried yeast • 455g strong bread flour, plus extra for dusting • 1 teaspoon mixed spice • 1 teaspoon cinnamon • 1 whole nutmeg, for grating • 55g caster sugar • 2 balls of stem ginger • 1 large free-range egg • 2 tablespoons plain flour • 55g sultanas or raisins • 30g dried cranberries • 2 tablespoons mixed peel • Runny honey

11. Place the plain flour and 2 tablespoons of water into a small bowl and mix to a thick paste.

Pat down the risen buns then

12. Place the buns into the preheated oven for 15-20mins, or until golden brown. Transfer

use the batter to trace a cross over the top with a piping bag or spoon.

to a wire cooling rack, brush over a little honey to glaze, then leave to cool.

Pierre Koffmann’s Four-Hour Lamb Introduction From his first cookbook, Memories of Gascony, Pierre Koffmann’s succulent lamb recipe will be the star of your Easter table.

Method 1. Preheat the oven to 170°C/150°C fan/gas mark 3, heat the duck fat in a large flameproof casserole dish and seal the lamb until golden brown all over.

2. Take out the lamb, put in the carrots and sweat gently for 5 minutes, then add the onions and sweat for another 5 minutes. Add the bouquet garni and the lamb.

Pour over the wine and boil for 3 minutes. Add 2 litres of water and the garlic, and season.

3. Cover the casserole dish and cook in the oven for 4 hours.

Check every hour that the cooking stock still comes halfway up the lamb; add more water if necessary. After 4 hours, the meat should be as soft as butter.

Remove it from the casserole dish with great care and place on a serving dish.

4. Pass the stock through a conical sieve. Remove the garlic from the muslin bag, crush it to a paste and stir it into the stock.

Check the seasoning, pour over the lamb, and enjoy.

Ingredients Serves 8 • 50g duck fat • 3kg leg of lamb • 4 carrots (about 300g), roughly chopped • 4 onions (about 500g), roughly chopped • 1 small bouquet garni • 1 bottle dry white wine • 8 cloves garlic (about 100g), peeled and wrapped in muslin • Salt and freshly ground pepper

Permission Granted Hugh Grant is a master of selfdeprecation, but he’s been so insistent for so long now about his general grumpiness that it’s difficult to believe he’s not also being brutally honest about his true nature.

At least, in returning to our screens in Bridget Jones: Mad About the Boy, following on from last year’s

superb Heretic, we can share in his chagrin.

“The tiniest thing can make me grumpy – someone walking too slowly in front of me, waiting in a post office queue behind elderly people.

“I mean, the pensioners I want to hurl them to the floor and out of the way, one by one. I admit it, shamefully I have become very impatient.

“I can temper that by staying busy, and it’s marvellous to work. I always feel like I’m in permanent semi-retirement, before occasionally something lures me back, and that’s really fun, something I want to do which is a break from the norm.

“I’m also happily distracted by fatherhood and my five children.

For years, I was always brayed at: ‘Hugh, you must get some kids, it will change your life’, and I’d say, ‘Oh shut up, I don’t want to hear this, I’m perfectly happy as I am’.

“Certainly, Bridget Jones is one of those roles that just feels like the right thing at the right time.

“But no, I stand corrected, it’s something I couldn’t have expected to enjoy as much as I do.”

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April’s entertainment aims This month there’s a season six on the way, an assortment of 7-inch records, an 8.8-megapixel movie and a theatre production that harks back to the 1920s.

A Minecraft Movie (April 1st) The highly anticipated Minecraft movie is set to bring the blockbuilding game to cinemas in April, promising a thrilling experience for fans of all ages.

Inspired by the creative and limitless world of the game, the film stars Jason Momoa, Jack Black and Emma Myers as a group of unlikely heroes band together to save their pixelated realm from destruction by the Ender Dragon.

Record Store Day 2025 (April 12th) Launched in 2008, Record Store Day champions the independent record shop, and the culture of vinyl

in particular, offering exclusive releases and live events to entice fans back to brick-andmortar stores.

The Great Gatsby – A New Musical, at the London Coliseum (from April 11th) Direct from Broadway, The Great Gatsby – A New Musical is set in the glitz and glamour of 1920s America.

With spectacular choreography and stunning visuals, this mustsee musical promises to transport audiences into Gatsby’s opulent world.

The Handmaid’s Tale, Season 6 (Hulu, TBC) Starring Elisabeth Moss, the sixth and final season of The Handmaid’s Tale is on the horizon, promising a climactic return to Gilead as its oppressive regime begins to fracture.

All eyes are on this gripping finale, as June confronts her past and redefines her future.

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Deal with it Why in these tight times, getting a better deal for your home broadband is one of the easiest ways to save money.

Research conducted last year by Uswitch found that more than half of low-income households are unaware of cheaper broadband deals that could save them, on average, around £200 a year.

The simple fact is most of us are paying more than we need for our broadband simply because they don’t realise they have bargaining power.

The secret isn’t really much of a secret – threaten to leave to unlock a better deal – so finding the time to do it and sticking to a set process can and will save you money, from month one.

Here’s how: Step 1: Check your contract Before you pick up the phone, take a few minutes to review your current internet contract.

Look for your end date (providers are more flexible when you’re out of or close to the end of your commitment period), know your current deal (what you’re paying and what your package includes, thus giving you a baseline

to compare against new offers), and be sure of competitor prices (do a quick online search to see what they are offering for similar speeds and packages). This knowledge is your leverage.

Step 2: Make the call Once you’ve done your homework, contact your provider’s customer service.

When you get through, let them know you’re considering leaving because your current deal is no longer competitive. Be polite but firm, highlighting competitor prices, also flagging your loyalty and the amount of time you’ve been with them.

Remember, this is a negotiation, not a confrontation.

Step 3: Speak to the retention team If the first representative can’t offer you a better deal, don’t give up. Ask to be transferred to the cancellations or retention team.

This department has more flexibility to offer

discounts and promotions to keep you as a customer. They’re trained to salvage relationships with customers who are ready to walk away, so this is where you’re most likely to strike gold.

Step 4: Evaluate the offer Once they’ve made you an offer, take a moment to consider it (checking for any hidden fees or commitments) and if it doesn’t stack up be prepared to switch.

The chances are you’ll have a much better deal, and all you need do then is sit back, applaud your moneysaving efforts, set a reminder for when your new deal expires, then phone up and do the whole thing all over again, saving even more!

General Knowledge Crossword 2

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Across Clues: 1. Top of face (4) 3. Flower with white petals and a yellow center (5) 6. Event with discounts (4) 8. Invisible mixture of gases (3) 9. Consume food (3) 10. A peaceful, picturesque scene (5) 11. Water falling (4) 13. To do something again (4) 16. Hard, glossy coating on teeth (6) 18. A miserable person (6) 20. Tax on property (5) 21. To fight or argue (5) 22. Medieval style of architecture (6) 24. Vast bodies of saltwater (6) 25. A person who utilizes something (4) 27. Mountainous region in The Legend of Zelda (5) 29. Perform music (4) 31. A small, rounded cap worn by clergy (9) 32. To stare at in a lecherous manner (4) 33. A burial place (4) Down Clues: 1. Wild pig (4) 2. A wagon or cart (4) 3. Silly or senseless talk (6) 4. A climbing plant (3) 5. Hit song by Coldplay (6) 6. A luminous point (4) 7. A large-scale event (4) 12. Misshapen (9) 14. Crew members working on a ship’s deck (9) 15. To speak indistinctly (6) 17. Close-fitting cap worn by Scottish women in the 16th century (5) 19. To make someone ecstatically happy (5) 23. To grip tightly (6) 24. Decorated with intricate patterns (6) 25. Hairstyle often worn at formal events (4) 26. Completely destroy (4) 28. Expression of obviousness (3) 29. A stain or mark (4) 30. Edge of a sidewalk (4)

Answers: Across: 1. Brow, 3. Daisy, 6. Sale, 8. Air, 9. Eat, 10. Idyll, 11. Rain, 13. Redo, 16. Enamel, 18. Wretch, 20. Rates, 21. Clash, 22. Gothic, 24. Oceans, 25. User, 27. Eldin, 29. Busk, 31. Zucchetto, 32. Ogle, 33. Tomb.

Down: 1. Boar, 2. Wain, 3. Drivel, 4. Ivy, 5. Yellow, 6. Star, 7. Expo, 12. Abnormous, 14. Deckhands, 15. Mumble, 17. Mutch, 19. Elate, 23. Clench, 24. Ornate, 25. Updo, 26. Raze, 28. Duh, 29. Blot, 30. Kerb.

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Filton Community Garden

GARDENING GET-TOGETHERS Alternate Saturdays, 11am-1pm. No experience necessary, just turn up on the day. Tools and guidance provided.

April

Saturday 12th Easter Egg Hunt Saturday 26th Help us create a wildlife shrub bank

May

Saturday 10th Saturday 24th

Filton Community Garden, Gloucester Road North, Filton BS34 7PF Online updates at: Facebook.com/filtoncommunitygarden Email:communitygarden@filtontowncouncil.gov.uk

The Layover Master the art of layering your outfits this spring and glide through the season of change with ease and panache.

When it comes to spring weather in the UK, we all know the score.

In the morning it feels like an ice age has descended, so you put on a thick coat. Yet by the time you get to work you’re sweating in the heat of a glaring sun.

If you think variety is the spice of life, you may very much enjoy experiencing all four seasons in one day, but for many the season simply represents a proliferation of poor outfit choices that never effectively anticipate what lies ahead.

The art of layering To successfully navigate inclement weather and still look stylish, layering is the only way to go.

In essence, this means having several thin layers of high-quality fabrics instead of one thin layer and one ridiculously warm winter coat (for example).

This allows you to gracefully shed or apply garments throughout the day depending

on where the barometer decides to take us.

If you don’t already have such pieces in your possession, don’t fret, as a few key items can help you create a wardrobe that works all year round.

Fabrics The key element to successful layering is choosing natural, breathable fabrics.

Unfortunately, this means that anything manmade isn’t going to cut it, as it tends to make one sweat; whereas wool, for example, allows your skin to breathe.

Cotton, silk, linen, merino wool and cashmere are all great options for your various layers the bonus being that a cashmere sweater can be tied elegantly around the waist or rolled up neatly in a bag if it gets too warm.

Outerwear Does anything scream springtime elegance quite like a wellfitted trench coat? Invest in one that can withstand short showers and

always carry a fold-up umbrella should it pour.

Scarves and knitted beanies will help keep you toasty on those chillier days, and a decent pair of fingerless gloves in cashmere or leather will always look chic.

Going out out Evenings in spring present their own set of problems, but a welltailored pair of trousers with a silk shirt tucked in and a wool blazer is a classic look that will keep you cosy.

When it comes to footwear, it is surely too early to expose those fragile winter feet to the world, but it’s worth ditching the boots and opting for a pair of chunk leather loafers of ballet pumps.

Revealing a touch of ankle may make Mr. Darcy blush, but for the modern woman, such fashion choices are simply a practical way to remain warm, comfortable and, above all, supremely stylish.

Greenfingers… the Alan Titchmarsh column He’s a magnificent broadcaster, gifted gardener, brilliant author and all-round horticultural visionary. This month, Alan Titchmarsh talks about wellbeing in the wilds of our gardens.

If you’ve ever spent a few hours in the garden, you’ll know the feeling. The sense of calm that washes over you, the rhythm of pulling weeds, planting seeds, or simply observing the world around you as it blooms into life. It’s as if nature has a way of soothing the worries of the world, even if just for a moment.

Over the years, I’ve spoken to countless people who’ve told me the same thing: gardening has been a lifeline for their mental health. Monty Don, a friend and fellow gardener, has spoken at length about how his time in the garden helped him through difficult patches in his life. It’s something that resonates deeply with me, and with so many others I’ve met on this journey.

Being outside, surrounded by nature, and connected

to something as fundamental as the soil, has an almost magical way of making us feel more grounded. There’s something therapeutic about getting your hands dirty, whether it’s tending to a row of vegetables or simply sitting on a bench and watching the plants sway in the breeze.

Nature, in all its beauty, offers us a chance to reconnect with ourselves.

There’s a certain philosophical aspect to gardening that I find particularly striking as well.

We all go through periods of ups and downs, with twists and turns, highs and lows, and so does the garden as it moves through the seasons. There’s something about tending to a patch of earth – watching things change, seeing plants grow and bloom – that reminds us that, just as the garden revives itself year after year, so too can we.

When I speak to people about their gardens, I hear so many stories of personal renewal.

For some, it’s a place that offers a platform for

processing so much – an escape from the pressures of daily life.

The act of planting, watching something grow, and nurturing life – whether it’s a flower, a vegetable, or a tree – gives us a sense of purpose.

What’s more, you don’t need to have a vast plot of land to feel its benefits. Whether you have a small balcony, a few pots on a windowsill, or a larger expanse, nature is always within reach.

So, the next time you’re feeling a bit frazzled or down, step outside. Take a deep breath, feel the earth beneath your feet, and let the garden do its work.

April Showers This month, a torrent of tremendous books from both sides of the pond.

Zeal

by Morgan Jerkins The New York Times bestselling author of This Will Be My Undoing and Caul Baby returns with an epic, multi-generational novel that illuminates the legacy of slavery and the power of romantic love.

Zeal spans over 150 years an extraordinary novel that intertwines the stories of star-crossed lovers and their descendants.

It is sweeping, textured, and meticulously researched - a story of how one generation’s choices reverberate through the years and an indelible portrait of an enduring love.

Released April 22nd by HarperCollins The Pen Is Mightier: Autobiography of a Punk Rocker by Edward Tudor Pole What links punk rock to The Crystal Maze to Harry Potter to booming “We’re gonna score one more than you” along the streets of Hoxton. It’s Ed Tudor Pole, of course.

A fascinating behind-thescenes account of the punk rock world, a career in show business and a lifetime spent on stage, written by legendary

musician and one-time Sex Pistol and Henry VIII descendant Edward Tudor Pole.

Whether house-sharing with Philip Pullman, trading one-liners at RADA, shooting the breeze with Clint Eastwood, partying with Jerry Hall, acting in Edwardian comedy with Rex Harrison or dodging fights with Sid Vicious, Tudor Pole has proved himself equal to many a challenge.

In a series of amusing, nostalgic and sometimes outrageous stories, told with candour and wit, the book reveals how a troubled start can lead to a happy ending, including appearing in Fat Les’s iconic football anthem Vindaloo!

Released April 24th by Penguin Books Great Big Beautiful Life

by Emily Henry This new offering from the queen of romcoms will delight fans old and new.

Introducing eternal optimist Alice Scott who’s still dreaming of her big writing break, and Hayden Anderson, a Pulitzer Prize-winning human thundercloud.

They’re together on Little Crescent Island vying for the chance to write the biography of the elusive octogenarian and former tabloid darling Margaret Ives. Much like the book they’re

auditioning to write, grumpy Hayden and sunny Alice’s story could go any number of ways.

Released April 22nd by Berkley Books Happy Land

by Dolan Perkins-Valdez Nikki Berry hasn’t seen her grandmother Rita in years.

When she calls out of the blue asking Nikki to visit her urgently in the hills of North Carolina, the granddaughter hesitates only for a moment. Her mother and grandmother have long been estranged, and after years of silence in her family, Nikki is determined to learn the truth while she still can.

But instead of answers about the recent past, Mother Rita tells Nikki the incredible story of a kingdom and a queen.

Released April 10th by Phoenix

April, 2025

E: richard@filtonvoice.co.uk

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Obituary

Charitable Ruth remembered

The family are very sad to announce the death of Ruth Perkins, pictured right, on December 17, 2024 at the grand age of 104.

The family held a coffee morning at St Andrew's Church in Filton on January 27 to mark her life, which was attended by around 50 family, friends and neighbours, including staff from Marie Curie charity and we would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who attended for making it a very memorable occasion.

Mum would be best known around Northville and Filton for when she worked at Miller's, the grocery store in Filton Avenue, and also SHE7 in Braemar Crescent where Dr Sinclair asked her to join the team of volunteers around 1969/70.

Mum worked tirelessly for SHE7 for about 47 years, from cook to chairperson, helping

anyone and everyone wherever she could. She decided to retire at the end of 2017.

After having a couple of falls at home, she decided 24-hour care was necessary and she moved from Eden Grove into

a care home in St George in February, 2022.

Ruth collected for many different charities over her lifetime, including Marie Curie, St Pete's Hospice, Cancer Research UK and Deep Sea Fishermen, to name a few.

In fact, for her 100th birthday in 2020, she asked for donations rather than gifts, and the proceeds went to six different charities around Bristol.

Those who attended her birthday will remember it was held in Eden Grove Church car park, as everyone had to keep their distance because of Covid.

Mum would always be ready to help anyone in need, rather than to benefit herself.

It makes us very proud that this lady was our mum.

Many thanks to everyone for your very kind donations in aid of Marie Curie.

Rosemary Furber

27

Donating preloved prom wear A local schools' academy trust is calling for donations of prom dresses and suits for its students.

The Olympus Academy Trust said that "prom dresses and suits are expensive for everyone — please donate so we can invite learners across our schools to select a free dress or suit".

Donations can be made at Abbeywood Community School, Bradley Stoke Community School, Patchway Community School or Winterbourne Community School.

For more information, visit: www.olympustrust.co.uk

Got news?

Contact Richard on richard@ filtonvoice.co.uk

Editor's note: this is a reprint of the article published last month which, due to a production issue, contained a factual error

OPEN EVENING JUNIOR & SENIOR SCHOOL Thursday 1st May 2025 5.00-8.00pm Clifton High School, BS8 3JD We invite you to visit our community and discover how Clifton High School can evolve your child’s future at every stage of their education.

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What's on in Filton ... email shane@filtonvoice.co.uk St Peter’s Church: Services

Sunday 30 March 10am Eucharist and 6pm Evenson with Benediction Sunday 6 April 10am Eucharist Sunday 13 April 8.30am and 10am Eucharist with Church Parade for Palm Sunday Tuesday of Holy Week 15 April 7pm Taizé Wednesday of Holy Week 16 April 7pm Eucharist Maundy Thursday 17 April 7pm Liturgy of the Last Supper and foot washing Good Friday 18 April 2pm Liturgy of the Last Hour Easter Eve 19 April 8pm Vigil service Easter Sunday 20 April 8.30am and 10am Family Eucharist with 6pm Benediction Sunday 27 April 8.30am and 10am Eucharist Midweek Said Eucharists are on Wednesdays at 7pm and Thursdays at 11am. Please check our news sheet and Facebook page for up to date information about midweek services.

Social and Church Groups Our Mothers' Union meets on 2nd Thursday at 2pm in the Coffee Shop.

Again, full details on the website.

Brabazon Belles (a social group for women) meet on the first Monday of the month at 7pm in the church hall.

Our Open House group meets every Tuesday in the church hall from 9.30 11am for tea, toast, and companionship.

Our friendly choir meets for rehearsals every Friday at 7pm in the church.

Community Coffee Shop

Our friendly community coffee shop is open Mondays to Thursdays from 10am to 1pm and all are welcome.

We have a selection of delicious homemade cakes and hot drinks available, all served by our friendly group of volunteers and we are also a designated warm space.

OVER 30s DANCE PARTY at the superb BAWA Club, Filton on the FIRST Friday of every MONTH (NO dance in August or January) It’s the ideal night out for the 30-60 age range.

Come dance and socialise amongst a friendly, lively crowd.

Dancing Thru’ the Decades includes Motown, Soul, Club Classics… Music you can relate to. Club times are 9 ‘til 1. Last entry 11pm – very smart casual.

No t-shirts or trainers and gents required to wear collared shirts.

Entry: £8. www.mingles.co.uk.

Facebook: @Luv2mingle

Donations, if you are able, are appreciated.

On the first Wednesday of every month from 10.30 - 11am we have 'Time to Grieve' - where you can come and meet with Margaret, our retired bereavement counsellor, for help and support. On Thursdays, we also have freshly made hot soup and bread available from 11.30 - a good way to get some of your five a day!

Tom’s Slimming World group will be held at Greenway Centre, Southmead, BS10 5PY every Tuesday at 5:30pm & 7:00pm from Tuesday 11th June 2024. For more information or to join Tom’s group call him on 07920779270.

So if you, or anyone you know, would like a healthy, heartwarming lunch - then do come along! Please note, the Coffee Shop is currently closed on Fridays, and at the weekend.

You can find more information at www. stpeterschurchfilton.com

Cubs age 8-10, Monday and Thursday 6:30 – 8pm Scouts age 10 -14, Tues 7 – 8:45pm The group is based in Scout HQ, Nutfield Grove, Filton, BS34 7LJ. All sections are open to boys and girls.

Email:joining@1stfiltonscouts.co.uk Website:1stfiltonscouts.co.uk

Men In Sheds Filton

St Andrew's Methodist Church

7-8.30pm Shine youth club for School Years 5 & 6, £2 entry

Regular Services

7-9pm Outbreak youth club for School Years 7-13, £2 entry

Sundays

Beavers age 6-8 Tuesday 5:30 – 6:30 & Wednesday 5:45 – 6:45

Wednesdays:

The DIY group, which aims to tackle loneliness and isolation among men aged over 50, operates from the Scout hut in Nutfield Grove, providing a space to socialise, build, share skills and drink tea. The group runs every Wednesday, from 9.30am-12.30pm. Call John Cahill 07986053005

SHE7

Morning Service 10.30 am. Little Lights (for children whose parent(s)/ carer(s) are attending worship). Please join us! You are assured of a warm welcome.

Thursdays:

Tuesdays

1.30-2.30pm Low Impact Fitness session, £3 entry

Wednesday: Over 50s lunch, Cooked lunch, pudding and tea/coffee for just £3.50. Please ring 0117 969 5130 to book and arrive by 12.15pm.

7-9pm Illuminators social club for adults aged 20+ with social or learning disabilities, £2 entry

Wednesday: Bristol Taiko - Japanese Drumming 7.00pm - 8:30pm, £5 per session

Fridays:

International Plastic Modellers Society Avon

Wesley Guild - meets alternate Tuesdays at 2.15pm. All welcome.

April meetings are 1st, 15th & 29th Thursdays Rainbows (term-time) 5.15pm Sip 'n' Chat Coffee morning: 10.00 am 12.00 noon. Enjoy a cuppa, a cake and a chat - all welcome. Thursday 10 April Fridays St Andrews Baby and Toddler Group, term-time, 10.00 am - 11.45 am, £ 2.00 per family, includes refreshments. Play, crafts, chat, and singing time.

Messy Church: Meets on the 2nd Saturday of the month, 3.30 pm - 5.15pm.

Crafts, fun and food for all the family.

Children must be accompanied by a responsible adult at all times. Free PLEASE NOTE: THE APRIL MESSY CHURCH IS 5 APRIL BECAUSE OF SCHOOL HOLIDAYS. Crafts, fun and food for all the family. Children must be accompanied by a responsible adult at all times. This event is free.

Hire of Church: Outside groups also regularly hire our newly refurbished multi-use church.

For bookings email: standrewsfilton@ gmail.com. For all other enquiries, please visit our website, standrewsfilton.org.uk

FACE Mondays: 12.30-1.30pm Tai Chi, £3 entry 7-9pm The Hangout youth club for young people aged 13-25, with social or learning disabilities, £2 entry Tuesdays: 10am-12pm Coffee Club (tea & coffee morning forover 60s), donations welcomed 5.30-6.30pm Rise youth club for School Years 3 & 4, £2 entry

10am-12noon Tech & Talk - IT or mobile phone support and more, whilst enjoying a cuppa and a natter, £3 entry

10am-12pm “Coffee & Chat” coffee morning for anyone who would like to come for refreshments, conversations and join in crafts and games together.

Donations welcomed.

1–3pm Creative Writing, Donations welcomed.

6-8pm, monthly Social Club for 8-13s with social or learning disabilities, 3rd Friday of each month.

FACE are pleased to announce that there will be a yoga taster session on Monday 28th April from 9.30-10.30.

Come and join us for 60 minutes of gentle, inclusive, and relaxing yoga.

This class is for everyone, regardless of experience or flexibility. *Regular sessions will begin every Monday from May 12th to July 28th (except Bank Holidays on May 5th & 26th) Session is £3 Contact: FACE, Youth Centre, Elm Park, Filton, BS34 7PS. 0117 9691938 / info@ facecharity.org.uk

Girl Guiding Rainbows – age 4 - 7 years - Tuesday 16:45-17:45 & Thursday 17:15 – 18:15 Brownies - age 7 - 10 years - Tuesday 17:45-19:15 Guides - age 10 - 14 years - Tuesday 19:30 – 21:00 Rangers - age 14 - 18 years - Tuesday 19:30 – 21:00 To register your daughter, go to Girlguiding UK website and follow the link 'Register my daughter'

1st Filton Scouts

Meetings are held on the 3rd Wednesday in the month from 7:30pm for 8.00pm at: BAWA Healthcare & Leisure, 589 Southmead Rd, Filton, Bristol BS34 7RG. Contact the club at: ipmsavon@gmail.com

Ukulele Filton We are an enthusiastic group of ukulele players, who love to strum and sing every Monday evening in Filton. We meet at St Andrew’s Methodist Church, Elm Park, from 7.30 to 9.00pm. We are always pleased to welcome new members. We have spare ukuleles for you to try, and plenty of help to get you started. We now also have members who come along just to sing! For further details, phone Sue on: 07504561831.

Bristol Scrabble Club Bristol Scrabble Club meets every Wednesday evening from 7pm until 10pm at the Filton Community Centre. Elm Park Filton BS347PS. New members are welcome and first visit is free so come along and give us a try. For more information ring Sheila Hinett 01179570792 or 07435316458.

Alternatively email shinett@blueyonder. co.uk.

Bristol Sugarcraft Guild We are a small friendly group who meet every third Saturday of the month 2pm to 4pm at St Andrews Church, Elm Park,

To advertise, contact shane@filtonvoice.co.uk and on 0770 674 1200 or Richard on 0777 555 0607

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What's on in Filton ... email shane@filtonvoice.co.uk Filton. If you would like to learn to make sugar flowers and models we hold demonstrations and also workshops with instruction. Beginners are very welcome.

Please call Jean Kington on 01454 314178 or Carole Hyams on 0117 956 8037 for more information.

Community Garden Gardening Get-togethers continue on alternate Saturdays 11am to 1pm Join the friendly volunteers and help keep the garden looking great for all to enjoy. All abilities welcome, just turn up on the day wearing suitable clothing and bring your own gloves. Tools and guidance provided.

March Saturday 29 March: RHS Grow With It — Seed Sow & Swap April 12 April: Easter Egg Hunt—Join us for a fun-filled Easter Egg Trail. Bring the whole family and hunt for hidden eggs to win an Easter prize. Free, drop-in.

26 April Help us to create a wildlife shrub bank to provide food, shelter, and nesting sites for a wider variety of birds, insects, and mammals For updates and more info visit facebook. com/filtoncommunitygarden or email communitygarden@filtontowncouncil. gov.uk

Filtones Choir Our long-established mixed voice choir is looking to recruit new members in 2025.

Adults of all ages, and all voice ranges are welcome from soprano to bass. We meet every Wednesday afternoon from 1.45-3.45 p.m. at the St Teresa’s Community Rooms, (behind the church) at 71 Gloucester Rd North BS34 7PL Come along and try us out for four weeks free, with no audition and no commitment. For further info. contact 07870 984760 or visit www.thefiltones. co.uk

Concord Wind Band We are a friendly, mixed ability band, playing music for fun. We rehearse at the Beechwood Club, Beechwood Rd, Fishponds, Bristol. BS16 3T every Friday 7.30pm to 9.30pm, with a tea break. We welcome new members. Contact Jayne on 07880724948

Filton Bookworms Come along to the Bookworms monthly reading group at Filton Library! 1st Friday of each month at 2pm. If you are interested in Joining, please as inside the library. Phone: 01454 868006 or Email: Filton.library@southglos.gov.uk

North Avon Speakers Club We usually meet every first and third Thursday of the month at BAWA Filton, 7:15pm to 9:30pm. We have prepared speeches, but also Table Topics, which are a fun way to help members and guests

practice impromptu speaking. After our meetings some members and guests usually also go to the nearby lounge/bar at BAWA. Please email northavontm@gmail.com for more information.

Dance Moves Keep Fit Tuesday, 2-3pm at St Peter's Church Filton. Have fun whilst improving your general wellbeing. Suitable for all ages. For further information, contact Eileen Scott, Tel. 07969929733/ email scottyartois@hotmail.com

not hold a level 2 maths qualification.

Mondays 9:30-11:30am at FACE. Contact Louise Gillett on 07720143 891 or louise.gillett@southglos.gov.uk

Horfield Townswomen’s Guild We are a small group meeting on the 2nd Wednesday in the month at St Andrews Church, Elm Park, Filton between 2 and 4pm. We welcome new members and further details can be obtained from the

Vice Chairperson, Edna Church on 07884 204621.

Probus A members luncheon club for retired people. Held the third Wednesday at the BAWA Club in Filton at 12pm.

Each meal is followed by a talk.

Partners can attend four times per year.

For more information contact the secretary on 07551503955 or email rogerbonner@gmail.com

Short Mat Bowls We are a friendly group that meets Thursdays 1:45pm to 4pm at the Filton Community centre, Elm Park Filton, BS34 7PS. New members are welcome, and the first visit is free, then each session £3.

Contact Alan Riley on 07957295287 or email alanriley73@gmail.com

Royal Air Forces Association – Bristol Branch

Every 2nd Wednesday of the month we run Veterans lunch at our club, The lunch is for veterans of all services and widows of Service men.

Open from 12pm, lunch is at 1pm until 3pm.

Crafts, fun and food for all the family to enjoy

Come and join us …

Entry is FREE! SATURDAY 5th APRIL 2025, 3.30 – 5.15pm @ ST ANDREW’S METHODIST CHURCH, ELM PARK, FILTON

*Children must be accompanied by a responsible adult at all times

The price is £7 for two courses. Address 38 Eastfield, Westbury On Trym, BS9 4BE. Please ring 0117 0470775 to book.

Filton Pétanque Club Come and try a game of Pétanque - the French game of boules. No equipment needed initially, just wear flat, trainertype shoes, and dress for the weather.

Wednesday evenings at 7.00pm.

Sunday mornings at 10.30am.

Venue: the boule piste, Elm Park, next to the community garden. Call 07925 913180 for more details. filtonpetanqueclub.my-free.website

Filton Historical Club Wednesday 30 April 2025 – 7.30 pm 'The Schneider Trophy ' (Aircraft) - John Stennard These talks will be held in St. Andrews Church, Elm Park, Filton. All talks will start at 7.30 pm. Those who wish only to come to selected talks will be asked to pay £5 per session. Tel: 0117-9424378. E-mail: alansnook@blueyonder.co.uk

Northavon Singers

Rehearsals are weekly at St Peter’s Church Hall, Filton, every Wednesday at 7.30 pm –9.30 pm. Come and join us! northavon. singers@outlook.com or phone 0117 9699206

Functional Skills Maths Course

Free maths course for over 19s who do

t e s r a E h unt g g e Saturday 12 April 11am-1pm

Filton Community Garden Join us for a fun-filled Easter Egg Trail. Bring the whole family and hunt for hidden eggs to win an Easter prize. Free, drop-in.

Filton Community Garden, Gloucester Road North, Filton BS34 7PF Online updates at: Facebook.com/filtoncommunitygarden Email:communitygarden@filtontowncouncil.gov.uk

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April, 2025

Check on your neighbour – it's important Residents are being encouraged to check on their vulnerable and isolated neighbours as part of an initiative launched by South Gloucestershire Council in partnership with charity Age UK. The ‘Good Neighbours’ initiative aims to tackle loneliness and help people who are struggling with the upkeep of their property or to make simple adjustments which will allow them to continue to live independently in their homes.

Age UK South Gloucestershire has already helped many people over the age of 50, some living in unsafe and unsanitary conditions.

The charity picks up referrals from family members, social workers or visitors to properties such as heating engineers.

They turned life around for an elderly lady living in two inches of stagnant water who did not think anyone would want to help her and successfully applied for financial support for a couple

who could only afford to eat vegetable soup.

They have also supported a lonely gentlemen who sat outside every day on a white plastic chair in the hope someone would speak to him.

Age UK chief executive Mark Flower said: “We all have parents, grandparents, elderly neighbours.

"We would not let them live in these conditions and we should not let other members of our community.

“We know there are more

people out there struggling to live, to make ends meet or heat their homes.

“Many of our clients would never ask for help or they don’t know help is available.

"We want to raise awareness that Age UK South Gloucestershire is here and whilst we don’t expect you to knock on people’s doors if you think something is wrong, we want people to know that we will.”

Councillor John O’Neill, South Gloucestershire Council’s

cabinet member responsible for adults and housing, said: “Being a good neighbour isn’t something we should aspire to be, it is something we all should be.

“It is about being part of a neighbourhood, a community and South Gloucestershire.

"Nobody should be living in damp, cold or unsafe conditions, especially older people on their own, and not feel they can ask for help.

“The Good Neighbours scheme gives us all an opportunity to do something for our older residents and we are so grateful to Age UK South Gloucestershire for all the work they already do to support our elderly population.”

You can find out more about the Good Neighbours campaign by watching the videos on the council’s Facebook page.

If someone you know could benefit from Age UK’s help call 01454 411707 or email info@ ageuksouthglos.org.uk

With NHS dentists hard to find, local people are rightly concerned about their mouth health. But there might be an alternative. In her regular series of columns, Sarah-Joy Lendon, the Filton-based 'Virtual Hygienist', offers tips on how you can take steps yourself to reduce your need to visit the dentist

Treating dentures like your own teeth With so much chocolate around at this time of year, it’s important to think about how you can enjoy these yummy treats in a way that causes the least damage to your teeth: • Keep all sugary foods and drinks to meal times only, so if you want to indulge in a chocolate egg, it is better for your teeth to eat it all in one go after a meal, rather than snacking on it throughout the day.

• Avoid eating or drinking anything other than water for at least one hour before bed

and overnight – so if you enjoy a hot chocolate at bedtime, try to drink it earlier in the evening, ideally directly after the last meal of the day.

• Effectively brush your teeth twice a day, once before bed and at one other time in the day, and remember that anybody under the age of 7 years will not yet have the dexterity to be able to properly brush their teeth so they will need you to do it for them.

• Clean between the teeth once a day using floss or interdental

brushes.

• Use a fluoride toothpaste.

• Visit your dentist regularly.

If you need help with any aspect of your or your family’s dental health, you can contact me here:

Sarah-Joy Lendon, The Virtual Hygienist

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