Filtonvoice December 2020

FREE EVERY MONTH for people and businesses in Filton

filtonvoice December 2020 Issue 110

... including Cheswick Village

www.filtonvoice.co.uk

ADVERT, page 9

Wishing our readers a very merry Christmas and a bright 2021!

Waiting game over precept - Page 3

Tributes to much-loved head teacher - Pages 4-5 The Nativity group at Shield Road Primary School

FACE charity's fears over building's future Pages 14-15

Going bananas for new shop - Pages 6-7

A Christmas ghost story - Page 8

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Contacts Richard Coulter Editor and publisher

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Ruth Drury Advertising sales

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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, above.

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

Waiting game to find out Filton precept Filton residents will need to wait until January before they find out the amount they must pay for the local ‘precept’ - the part of council tax which funds the town council.

Last year, amidst severe budget pressure, the precept went up by 35%, thought to be one of the highest rises in England.

Filton residents already pay the highest precept in South Glos, mainly due to the costs associated with the swimming pool at Elm Park.

A meeting of the council’s finance committee in November heard from accountant Derek Kemp who said that a year of upheaval due to the pandemic as well as possible big changes ahead meant it was impossible to make projections yet. He added that he is also waiting for figures from South Glos which

will likely show that the ‘tax base’ - those households which pay full council tax - is likely to drop due to support given if individual circumstances have changed, such as unemployment.

Mr Kemp said he had made projections based on the situation when the leisure centre reopened in the summer but since then we have had the November lockdown.

He said: “Projections are difficult. My crystal ball is no better than anyone else’s.”

The town council is currently well advanced in discussions which could bring in an outside operator to run the swimming pool and sports centre, changing the financial responsibility for the facilities.

Cllr Chris Wood asked Mr Kemp about the Ratepayers bar, which he said was projected to cost the council £25,000.

Mr Kemp said: “The bar is not as popular as it once was and the (pandemic) restrictions have had an impact. Anticipated income is

lower than in the past, but costs stay the same.”

However, Mr Kemp had better news about town council reserves, which currently sit at £88,000.

He said they were projected to be around £130,000 by the end of next year and by the end of February 2022, £46,000 ahead of the recommended figure of £170,000.

Town councillors must submit their budget by the end of January to South Glos along with the precept amount.

Last year the Filton precept was £315 per year, making the total Council Tax bill for South Gloucestershire £2,138 for Band D residents - or £215 per month spread over 10 months. Overall, last year Filton residents saw a rise of around £163/year after South Glos approved an increase of 3.99%.

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Tributes to much-loved headteacher Bernard Brain Bernard, the popular former Headteacher of St Teresa's Primary, has died aged 71.

Here, his friend and former colleague Alison Spurrell remembers 'a kind, compassionate and gentle man'

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We are very sad to announce the death of Bernard Brain, former Headteacher of St Teresa’s Catholic Primary School, who passed peacefully away on Thursday, October 29, surrounded by his family, aged 71.

Mr Brain joined the staff of St Teresa’s in 1995, following headships at St Mary’s Uxbridge and Our Lady of the Rosary, Lawrence Weston. He stayed until his retirement in 2009.

A kind, compassionate and gentle man, Mr Brain was supportive of both his staff and pupils, particularly in times of hardship or distress. He encouraged everyone to use and develop their talents, in whatever field they lay. His prominent sense of humour was never far from the surface and his unique laugh could always be heard.

Mr Brain held a deeply rooted Catholic faith which impacted his whole life. He worked hard to

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impart this to the whole school family and was it clear to those who met him.

Apart from his family, Mr Brain’s great loves were music and live sport. He introduced a new piece of music each week to his pupils, choosing a composition or song from different eras to be ‘music of the week’. He was famous for his whistling around the school – everyone always knew where he was!

He was a season ticket holder for Bristol Rovers FC and delighted in meeting his pupils there at each match. For a retirement present the St Teresa’s staff and families paid for him to become a Life Member of Gloucestershire County Cricket Club, a privilege he enjoyed many times each summer. It was a great sadness to him that he was unable to watch any live sport in the unusual summer of 2020.

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Mr Brain is survived by his wife Tricia, his three children and two grandchildren.

They are extremely grateful to the nurses and other professionals from St Peter’s Hospice and a Tribute Page has been created for those who knew him to record their memories.

A donation can be made at the same time but is optional and will not be shown.

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his page: https://www. stpetershospice.org/tributefunds/bernard-brain/ Sam Land, the current Headteacher at St Teresa's, said: "We were sorry to hear the sad news of Bernard Brain, headteacher of St. Teresa's 1995-2009, passing away and we shared this with the school community.

"We have remembered him in our prayers as a school family."

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Both of our sons attended St Teresa's Primary - our eldest during Bernard Brain's tenure and our youngest more recently after he had retired.

The school changed after he left - not for better or worse - it just changed.

Bernard was, pardon the pun, old school. St Teresa's, from the first day we took Finlay to a meeting in Bernard's office before he entered Reception, was a warm, kind school which would make any parent feel assured. Part of this was that the ethos was built on strong values and tried and tested ways of teaching, as well as kindness and compassion.

We often fondly recall Bernard's talk before every Nativity Play. He was a traditionalist at heart and it would always go as follows ... 'there are trees and decorations up and cards and gifts have been in the shops for months, but Christmas never really begins for me until the St Teresa's Nativity Play'.

At the time I was working at the Bristol Evening Post and Bernard, who was keen on news, always liked a natter. One summer's day I was talking to him about sports day and he told me about a parent who had marched into his office, claiming his child should have been given an award in the egg and spoon race. Bernard had no time for this but the parent was not to be put off and, to Bernard's despair, produced a video of said race!

Bernard told this story with a shake of the head then just looked at me and rolled his eyes! We can assume the original result stood!

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December, 2020

News

Locals go bananas on social media for new fruit Visit the website www. fruitandvegland.co.uk for free deliveries

by Shane Gibson A fresh store has opened in Filton Park, creating excitement for local shoppers, who have been quick to praise it on Facebook.

Fruit and Veg Land is a greengrocer with an element of wonder as the name suggests.

Run by Alaa Othman and assisted by staff member Suela, pictured, the store offers a wide range of produce including typical staples as well as international fruits, spices, and nuts. Alaa explained why he opened his store, on Gloucester Road North, using the former restaurant area of Manik's at Gloucester Road North, BS7 0SG. He said: “I moved from Cairo eight years ago wanting to continue with the same type of business that my family started in Egypt. We had shops further down on Gloucester Road and heard that people in Filton

wanted fruit and veg.”

After Alaa secured the premises, a picture of the shop sign was shared on Facebook.

“I was very happy that people noticed the post, and it did give us a lot of positive attention from the local community," he said.

Indeed, there has been a social media buzz around the opening of the store being the only green grocers in that area of Filton, the nearest competition being the Tesco Express petrol station.

Alaa spoke of how his shop has been received in the first month of opening.

He said: “You know, it has been a slow start, but I am confident things will get better.

We have had some support from the local community and for those customers, it was a surprise that we are not busier.”

Fruit and Veg Land has a remarkable range of fruit, with

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and veg shop in Filton

various types of apples, berries, pears, bananas, figs, melons, and tomatoes as well as Custard Apples, Prickly Pears, Pomelos and Plantains.

They have more than 130 spices, pasta and breads, a large

range of nuts and, of course, classic vegetables that most of us would have as part of a traditional English Sunday roast dinner.

Alaa feels that it is the presentation of the fruit that

allows them to stand out.

He said: “We use less plastics. Normally if you go into a supermarket, you often cannot see, for instance, bananas outside of the plastic as they are already wrapped. We use as little plastic as possible. Our customers can actually see what they are buying” Fruit and Veg Land also sells milk and dairy free alternatives to accompany your food.

Everything in the shop is available in pre-set and customisable Fruit and Veg boxes, that can be collected or delivered to customers' doors.

“We have everything are customers need,” Said Alaa “Our only problem with veg is that it’s always fresh.

"If our produce were not fresh then we would not be good enough to be open, so the veg is always fresh.

"And that is a rather good problem to have.”

Fruit and Veg Land is open 7 days a week 8-8 Monday to Saturday, 8-7 on Sundays.

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n CHRISTMAS GHOST STORY

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December 2020 December, 2020

The New Café

By Jan Ellis

H

annah liked to sit in the alcove between the big old fireplace and the window that gave onto a chilly courtyard.

She stayed aloof from the hustle and bustle of the café in what had once been the sitting room of a handsome house. As she sat there, looking out, her fingers idly knotted and unknotted the fringes of a shawl on her lap.

As customers entered and chose their spots at the oak tables, some shivered and pulled their coats closer, rubbing their hands together and remarking on how cold the room was, despite the festive decorations and the stove in the inglenook.

There must have been a draught, but Hannah seemed not to notice it as it grew dark outside and a thin sleet began to cover the pavement, making it slippery.

There was a melancholy pleasure to be had, silently watching the customers, especially when they had children or babies with them.

Sometimes she would stretch out a hand towards a small child who had wandered over and smiled at her, but inevitably the parents would pick up the child and place it back on its seat.

A grey dog came in, shook gritty rain from its fur then started and pulled back towards the door as its owners wrestled the lead in between ordering tea and toasted teacakes from the young waitress.

Most of the time Hannah ignored the cafe’s customers, gazing instead at the courtyard, where the well used to be. She would never forget the well. As the eldest daughter, it was her chore to fetch water and carry it back to the house they shared

‘She lost her footing on the dank, mossy brick and slithered down, her hands grasping hopelessly at thin air as she plunged towards the inky water’

with two other families. That day her mother was busy at home preparing Christmas puddings with an invalid husband and seven little ones under her feet. “Take Alfie,” she had said, handing over a reluctant toddler and a stoneware jug, “and don’t be long.”

Hannah struggled with the heavy jug and the wriggling child as they slithered across the icy ground from the house to the yard, so she lifted up the boy and wrapped her shawl tightly around them both, crossing it over her chest and knotting it at the waist as best she could.

At the well, she quickly finished her task and was ready to leave when Alfie’s podgy arm swung out, catching their mother’s jug and sending it tumbling. She’d been warned a hundred times of the dangers, but she was more afraid of the beating she’d get if she went home without the jug, so she tied up her skirts, stepped over the edge and used the rough indentations cut into the side to make her way down towards the water. But, inevitably perhaps, she lost her footing on the dank, mossy brick and slithered down, her hands grasping hopelessly at thin air as she plunged towards the inky water, where her heavy skirts soon pulled her under.

Some children heard her shriek as she fell and ran to fetch help. It was teatime so it took a while for men to come, and it was the farrier – the strongest of them – who was lowered down on the rope to bring her back up. At a signal the waiting men hauled on the rope.

Lanterns were dangled over the edge, but they only reached so far and it seemed an eternity before the bystanders who had crowded around could see the top of the farrier’s dark head and make out the sodden bundle clasped tightly beneath one sturdy arm.

Hannah was carried, dazed and barely breathing, to her home where she was put to bed as her mother ran back to the well, screaming. After a few days, the girl developed a fever then

Jan Ellis writes feel-good fiction and mystery from a 16th-century cottage behind Wells Cathedral. Her books are available from all good bookshops and from libraries across the region. Visit www. janelliswriter.com to read more about the books or to contact Jan. fell into a stupor and died. The physician said it was the shock of the fall that had killed her, but the neighbours whispered that it was grief and guilt that had caused her heart to cease its beating. Falling through the darkness, Hannah had felt the shawl come loose from her waist as her brother tumbled past her and was lost.

I

n the café, Imogen began gathering up her shopping bags, scarf and woolly hat, getting ready to leave. “And where do you think you’re going?” she asked her little boy, as she wrestled the pushchair between crowded tables.

“I want to talk to the lady.”

“Which lady?” she asked, looking around the busy room.

The child pointed towards the alcove by the window. “The sad lady in the corner.”

“But there is no lady, Ben.” “There is!”

“Okay, let’s check, shall we?”

said his mother, hoping to avoid a tantrum on Christmas Eve. “You see – there’s nobody here.

Oh, I think you have a leak,” she said, smiling at the owner as she pointed at a puddle of water shining blackly on the flagstone floor.

“Not again.” The owner scratched his head and looked up at the ceiling. “I’ve had plumbers in but none of them can tell me where the water’s coming from.

There’s nothing but a store cupboard upstairs and the floor’s as solid as they come, so I’m stumped.”

“It’s just one of the joys of older properties, I suppose.” The woman shivered. “It’s cold in this part of the room, too. Anyway, we’d best be off.”

And, as his mother led him reluctantly away, Ben turned and waved goodbye to the girl who sat weeping silently in the corner. © Jan Ellis

To contact ruth@filtonvoice.co.uk or Richard on 0777 555 0607 or Ruth on 07590 527664 Toadvertise, advertise, contact Andy on 01749 675157 Email: sales@wellsvoice.co.uk

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News

Vaccine 'to be rolled out this month' says report

by LDRS staff for Filtonvoice Residents in Filton and across South Glos and Bristol will start receiving coronavirus vaccines by December 7, starting with over50s and frontline health and care workers, local NHS chiefs have revealed.

A regional mass vaccination centre is being created at Bristol City’s Ashton Gate football

stadium, while GP practices will be grouped together, with one of them administering jabs for patients from the other surgeries seven days a week.

Between 75,000 and 110,000 people in South Gloucestershire, Bristol and North Somerset will receive vaccines every week from Monday, December 7, until April 5, according to a report to

University Hospitals Bristol and Weston NHS Trust (UHBW) board. Pharmacies will fill the gaps where GP coverage is low, and home visits will be carried out for housebound people, the area’s clinical commissioning group says.

At least 70 per cent of the local population will need to be vaccinated, which involves a

second dose three to four weeks after the first.

North Bristol Hospitals NHS Trust, which runs Southmead, will oversee the programme.

It is understood everyone over 50 and other high-risk groups would receive it first, although over-80s and care home residents and staff were front of the queue.

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Safety island could be installed on busy road Filton Park residents could soon have a new safety feature on a busy stretch of Southmead Road, opposite the BAWA fields.

The scheme would look to provide and island on the well-used stretch near Rannoch Road, giving the residents and commuters who use it every day a safe and suitable crossing point.

The proposals are being backed by Filton councillor Chris Wood.

A spokesperson for the Conservative group on South Glos Council said: "The proposals, which look to install a

"It is important that we are doing what we can to protect pedestrians."

- Cllr Chris Wood

pedestrian island on Southmead Road, follow a long running campaign for improved road safety and infrastructure for pedestrians led by Cllr Wood, who represents Filton on South Gloucestershire Council."

A public consultation by South Gloucestershire Council ran in November, with residents and parents being encouraged to have their say.

Cllr Wood, pictured, said: “I am delighted that South Gloucestershire Council is considering installing this island, having called for it for some time, and want to thank them for bringing these plans to the public for consultation.

“With the road regularly used every day, it is important that we are doing what we can to protect pedestrians and all other road users.”

WE ARE HAVING A NEW SCHOOL BUILT READY TO MOVE IN DURING 2021-22 CONTINUES TO BE A GOOD SCHOOL - NOVEMBER 2019 ‘Elm Park is a happy and friendly school’ ‘Pupils love learning because teachers make it fun’

01454 866750 email: elmparkprimary@sgmail.org.uk Is your child due to start school next September?

ELM PARK PRIMARY SCHOOL

Reception Open Afternoons

Please contact the school office to book a socially distanced tour

Inspiring Learners, Enriching Lives, Achieving Together We would love to welcome you to Elm Park.

Come along and enjoy a guided tour led by our Head Teacher and Reception Class Teacher. See our wonderful school and let us show off the amazing learning opportunities we provide.

‘Elm Park is a happy and friendly school - Pupils love learning because teachers make it fun.

• The Early Years is a welcoming and interesting place for children to learn.

• Staff care deeply about their pupils and are sensitive to their needs.

• Leaders and teachers share a passion for igniting pupils’ enthusiasm and nurturing talents’ OfSTED November 2019

Please contact us by phone 01454 866750 or email elmparkprimary@sgmail.org.uk to book a place for one of our open mornings.

If you are unable to make the dates/times above, please contact us and we will find an alternative time to show you around.

New Headteacher The governors are pleased to announce that Carol Bond has been appointed the permanent Headteacher of Elm Park School.

Mrs Bond has been part of The Elm Park community for ten years, most recently as Acting Head and she is delighted to be the permanent Headteacher, leading Elm Park through its next exciting phase.

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Advertising feature

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Meet Amanda, our new Slimming World consultant Amanda joined Slimming World in January 2016 after a back operation to repair a broken spine.

During routine follow-up checkups she was told that she had high cholesterol and if she didn’t make some changes then she would need to be on lifelong medication.

Although she had battled with her weight for many years and tried many different plans and organisations, she knew this time she had to make some lifelong changes. So threw herself into Slimming World 100 per cent. She promised herself that she would make the time for image therapy weekly and to cook more than she had in years. In her first week she lost 4.5 pounds and fell in love with cooking.

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This helped in a couple of ways,the first being that she didn’t want to miss out any meals during the day. It also made her try many different recipes so that her posts had real variety (it also meant she had to have lots different plates as presentation is really important to her!)

Even after reaching her target of 3.5 stones lost in November 2017 she still attended group weekly and still posted delicious looking meals to motivate herself and, of course, the other group members.

During this year’s pandemic it was obvious to her that even more people than ever needed help and support at such a difficult time, and although being a consultant was something that she knew she wanted to do at some point, she decided that there was no time like the present.

Amanda opened her first group

on October 5th at the Lockleaze sports centre If you’ve ever thought that this

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Got a story or any other inquiry? Call Richard on 0777 555 0607 or email richard@filtonvoice.co.uk

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December, 2020

Filton Town Council Swimming returns after lockdown restrictions In line with the recent guidance from the Government, the pool at Filton Sports and Leisure Centre was set to reopen as normal on December 3, 2020 at 7.00am for the prepaid dawn dippers sessions.

The pool will be open as before the most recent lockdown, with the same activities as before and the same restrictions in place.

Staff look forward to welcoming you all back soon.

For more information and updates please go to our website www.filtonleisurecentre.co.uk

Family swim time

Every weekend - spaces and times are very limited and must be prebooked. We will be using our learner pool for under 8s and family and our main pool for over 8s and family. There will only be 6 slots available. To make a booking please call 01454 866686. We have all COVID guidelines and restrictions in place for your safety.

Lane swimming

We now have all five of our main pool lanes open for lane swimming only (limited spaces). All swimmers must be over the age of 16 years please. All swimming must be pre-booked. For swim times please visit our website www.filtonleisurecentre.co.uk (Our learner pool is still closed for now)

Swimming lessons

We will not be taking on new customers this term as the children we already have on the system are our priority. There will be limited classes and spaces but we have tried to put something in place for everyone.

If you have any questions or concerns please call us 01454 866686.

Dinky dolphins

Since September we have been back running Dinky Dolphins sessions.

They are on a Monday 9.30-10.30am, Wednesday 9.30 – 10.30am and Friday 9.30 – 10.30am.

These sessions have a maximum of eight adults and eight children and will need to be pre-booked. Please note that sessions will be different to usual with no singing activities. £5 per adult and under 3's go FREE! You can book these now, by calling reception on 01454 866686.

Bristol Budget 21/22 Tell us your views on proposed council tax options Complete the survey online bristol.gov.uk/budget2021-2022.

The council tax consultation closes on 28 December.

For a paper copy or other alternative format email consultation@bristol.gov.uk or call 0117 922 2848.

If you are on a low income, council tax reduction could help pay your council tax bill. Find out more at bristol.gov.uk/council-tax-reduction

To advertise, contact ruth@filtonvoice.co.uk or Richard on 0777 555 0607 or Ruth on 07590 527664

E: richard@filtonvoice.co.uk

December, 2020

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Filton Town Council MUGA consultation As we went to press, Filton Town Council was holding a public meeting to discuss the recent consultation on the proposed Multi Use Games Area (MUGA) to replace the tennis courts at Elm Park.

The repsonse to the consultation was good and a full report on the public views and teh outcome of the meeting will be printed in January.

A MUGA is a popular design which allows for several sport, including football, tennis, netball and basketball.

One of the proposed designs is printed here.

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Council offices

Ratepayers Pub

Filton Town Council office is now staffed 9am until 1pm Monday to Friday, but due to the current pandemic there is still NO public access. Access can only be by telephone appointment.

Please contact us at office@ filtontowncouncil.gov.uk or by phone 01454866698 to arrange an appointment if necessary.

Staff are working from home out of the above hours If you have an enquiry or wish to report a problem email office@ filtontowncouncil.gov.uk.

The current Tier 3 restrictions for South Gloucestershire mean the Ratepayers Pub is not able to open for normal service and it has been decided not to offer a takeaway service.

The bar will also not be hosting the usual festive events, including the traditional New Year's Eve party.

A decision on reopening times will be made at the conclusion of the latest lockdown.

l Physical council meetings are unable to take place so meetings are being held online via the Zoom platform, with details at www.filtontowncouncil.gov.uk l December 8th, Full Council, 7pm l January 12th, Finance Committee, 7pm

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December, 2020

News

£4,000 boiler repair bill worries for FACE charity The future for Filton's youth and community charity FACE (The Foundation for Active Community Engagement) is uncertain after they were forced to vacate their Elm Park building during the recent lockdown.

The ageing boiler system has broken beyond repair, leaving the owners of the building, St Andrew's Methodist Church, with a £4,000 bill for repairs.

Discussions between the church and FACE have failed to resolve the matter although the church council is expecting FACE to sign a new lease in the summer - without any guarantees yet that the boiler will be repaired.

In the meantime, FACE staff are working from the church building and remotely and while some activities can continue in the church hall, this may not be the case once lockdown is over and normal church hall activities resume.

A member of the FACE team, who asked not to be identified, said: "There is no plan in place for the boiler but we are being asked to sign a new lease.

As things stand, most of our

activities, including our youth work, will not be viable as we cannot operate in the building without heat and the church hall will be used for other activities."

A spokesperson for St

Andrew's Church Council said: "St Andrew's Methodist Church has been involved in supporting local Youth Work since 1942 and the present Youth Centre was built by the church in 1967

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December, 2020

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News

in memory of club members and leaders who were killed in a tragic minibus accident.

"FACE, as an independent charity, continues the work that was started over 53 years ago in the building.

"There are ongoing conversations between the FACE trustees and the church authorities regarding the management of the building.

"St Andrew's Church Council continues to value and support the contribution FACE makes to young people and the wider community, both locally and

across Bristol and South Gloucestershire."

FACE is a a local charity which 'aims to work with people of all ages to improve their community participation, skills and learning, health and wellbeing, activity and workreadiness, and enable people to come together to break down barriers between different ages and backgrounds, and improve life in the local area.

The charity expanded their work from Filton and since 2019 have been delivering projects across Bristol and South Glos.

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December, 2020

Update on Filton's Scouting group

Chief Scout awards given to loyal members during return from lockdown

ALL GARDENS

September saw a return to faceto-face Scouting for the young people of 1st Filton.

Unfortunately, the group has now had to return to meeting virtually, but for the few weeks that they were able to meet, the Beavers, Cubs and Scouts were able to take part in sessions varying from photography to the more traditional Scouting activities of hikes, pioneering and campfires.

The outdoor-only sessions were much enjoyed and everyone is looking forward to meeting in person again.

Despite the lockdowns, the group has been pleased to award some Chief Scout Awards. These are the highest awards in any section. Various activities need to be completed to gain each challenge badge and all of the challenge badges (six for Beavers, seven for Cubs and nine for Scouts) have to be earned before a Chief Scout award is given.

Alfie, Isaac, Eddie and Harry were all awarded their Chief Scout Bronze award in Beavers.

This was followed by Alexi and Adam earning their Chief Scout Silver in Cubs.

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December, 2020

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17

Update on Filton's Scouting group

Finally, Scouts Joel and William were awarded their Chief Scout Gold awards. The two Scouts were presented with their awards during a final session for the six oldest members of the group. Due to their age, Callum, David, Joel, Laila, Noah and William were due to finish in the summer, but special arrangements were made to allow them to return to Scouts to complete their time with some face-to-face meetings.

Clocking up an impressive 48 years at 1st Filton between them, it has been a privilege to see them grow throughout their time in the group. For Laila it was a double milestone as she is the first girl to go the whole way through the 1st Filton group, starting Beavers at 6 and leaving Scouts at 14½.

Joel said: “At Scouts, I managed to learn essential life skills while still having lots of fun. Everyone was really nice

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and helpful. I made some great memories with my friends there.

"We got to do really adventurous activities like climbing, rafting and we also did cooking sessions.

"We got to help charities by sleeping in cardboard

boxes, which I never would've done without the leaders’ encouragement.”

We wish them all well in the future and hope that they will return to Scouting as leaders some day!

Hazel Boyes

Pictured clockwise from top left: Cubs Alexi and Adam with their Chief Scout Silver awards; Scouts William and Joel with their Chief Scout Gold awards; Beavers Alfie, Isaac, Eddie and Harry with their Chief Scout Bronze award; and Callum, William, Laila, Noah, Joel and David at their final Scout session

Got a story or any other inquiry? Call Richard on 0777 555 0607 or email richard@filtonvoice.co.uk

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December, 2020

Filton packs a lunch (or two) for families

by Shane Gibson Filton organisations came together to offer a lifeline to children needing free school meakls at half term.

After the Government’s announcement that there would be no half-term support for children in England who normally receive free school dinners during term time, there was concern throughout the country that some children would be without food.

Filton charity FACE, ASDA and Filtonvoice collaborated to provide pack lunches for families that needed them during the October half-term.

FACE’s Director Debbie Teml spoke about the process.

She said: “The Filtonvoice team asked if there was anything we could do. I then contacted staff of local schools to determine if there was a need for packed lunches during the half-term, and it was believed that there would

David Thomas from Asda with the dontated food.

Opposite, the FACE team added it to donations from Hobbs House Bakery and assembled the packed lunches be, but not just for children that were in receipt of free school meals.”

Filtonvoice contacted ASDA, who, with the help of community outreach worker David Thomas, donated food for pack lunches

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to the value of £250. Debbie sourced bread from Hobbs House bakery who had offered to supply free bread to anyone operating a children’s packed lunch scheme over the half-term.

Within a matter of hours,

a few people came together to provide food and relief for families who were in need.

“I put out a post on Facebook asking for volunteers and 6 ladies plus their daughters responded offering help.

"Filtonvoice designed a poster to advertise the scheme and in less than five hours we were ready to go,” explained Debbie.

Debbie created a Google form so families could register for the scheme and to check if it was just families eligible for free school meals were in need or if the demand was related to other factors such as the economic cost of the approach to dealing with the COVID-19 virus.

Typically, free school meals are awarded to cover the extra costs of paying for school meals that fall outside of a family’s household shopping budget.

Outside of termtimes, whilst schools are closed, free school

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December, 2020

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meals are not available as it is assumed that parents consider the cost of food consumed in the home as part of the household shopping budget and adjust accordingly.

This is something Debbie was aware of.

“People had spoken to me about that, and I think it might have been why the uptake for the

filtonvoice

lunches was not as high as we had all expected,” she said.

Eleven families across Filton registered for pack lunches.

Of those eleven, only five families collected the lunches.

Some of the leftover food that ASDA donated will be given to families who need it over the Christmas holidays.

Debbie said: “I don’t know

www.filtonvoice.co.uk

why six of the families did not come to collect the lunches, but the ones that did were incredibly grateful.

"We had enough left over

19

to allow for the families that needed more, to collect extra packed lunches later in the week, hopefully enough to cover them over the weekend.”

Got a story or any other inquiry? Call Richard on 0777 555 0607 or email richard@filtonvoice.co.uk

December, 2020 20

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â– ADVERTISING FEATURE Wellbeing with Lauren Chiren

www.filtonvoice.co.uk

35

December, 2020

Pensioners, Council Tax and Pension Credit - clarification

Y E

ou can’t be fearful and angry AND grateful all atthis theyear at ARLY demand same time.

More Tree Frenchay Christmas Farm, brought than I can ever recall,about thereby the lockdown is a huge amountannouncement of fear on Hallowe’en, kept and anger being feltthe in Frenchay our growers on their With a fourpopulation and Itoes. wonder day window to take reservations what may happen if we before the came into simply stoplockdown for a moment. effect on November 5th, they were Stop. inundated with visitors keen to get Think about our their tree reserved in case the farm circumstances rather than react was forced to shut down. to them.

In the event, Frenchay I wonder if Farm we took moment Christmas Tree wasaallowed to to stop, breathe deeply stay open, and began it’sand first day of proper trading onthe November slowly, and look at beauty of 21st. The owners hoping what we DO haveare and what that IS with allwell thefor open going us.space available, visitors will be continue to I always askable myto clients, ‘what pick their treesince from we thelast field went well own for you as usual. “Please try and avoid spoke?’ the busy weekends of November Besidesand being genuinely 28th/29th December 5th/6th, interested, focusing on the and come on a weekday instead,� positive actively programmes advises owner Simon Maughan, your to look more “but ifbrain you have no for choice but to positives. come on a weekend, then please dotwo thispeople any time no You morecan than per you household. � in a pickle, feeling find yourself to explain theupset. early flat Trying or down, angry or interest Just this stop.year, Simon believes that it is not just a case of Christmas

Breathe in for the count of 5, hold for 5 and breathe out for the count of 7. Repeat this ten times. This literally allows you to change your state – how you are thinking and feeling - and help you focus on what is going well.

Another exercise that is powerful and helps you create a good state, is to get a piece of paper, a pen and set a timer for 5 minutes.

In the 5 minutes, write down getting earlier year. “We really everything youeach are grateful did wonder whether there would for, everything you love and be any Christmas celebrations at all everything you are proud of. I’d this year, but of course Christmas love to hear how youofget on! and is a powerful symbol hope time, I’ll share theis very joy,Next and the Christmas tree CLANGERS method much a part of that.� with you!

About Lauren obviously played “Lockdown Lauren a Filton-based executive a huge ispart, but we were also gettingcoach a lot of interest before health and menopause that. People just really looking specialist.

Forare private coaching, forward towellbeing the year’sand end,speaking a new corporate beginning, a celebration engagements, please get of in having touch. survived perilous and odd year, P: 07799 a402294 and perhaps a way of celebrating E: lauren@ friends and relatives they may have womenofacertainstage.com lost, or nearly lost.� “Christmas this year is going to

We would like to clarify a matter relating to the South Gloucestershire Advice Services column in our November issue. will be advised to stay customers at least Due to a production error on our part, we one gaveChristmas incorrectTree apart from other people, and Christmasinformation regarding pensioners, Council Tax and Pension Credit. themed face coverings will be During the editing process, it was suggested that pensioners do not warmly welcomed! have to pay council tax.

St Peter’s Hospice are also This is wrong. organising a Christmas Treeunless The situation is that most pensioners WILL pay council tax Collection Service in January, or either they or their partner get the guaranteed part of Pension Credit, return your tree to the farm, where in which case they are entitled to a fullitreduction on council tax and will be chipped and recycled. the local authority will ignore both their income and their capital.

Finally, to say a big thank you to We apologise for the error. all our NHS workers who continue to put their lives on the line to treat or support coronavirus patients, Frenchay Christmas Tree Farm be very important to us all,â€? says are offering a ÂŁ10 discount on Simon,Filton “and we wantcouncillors to make it fun Crime: town have urged residents to be especially any tree on production of a valid for everyone, keeping vigilant aboutwhile burglaries at the this time of ID.year.

To know that they are there is farm asAdam safe asMonk possible. â€? The is council tremendously Cllr told thesite town there wasreassuring. an annual spike in following Covid-safe regulations Frenchay Christmas Tree Farm November and December in thefts of bikes which would be then sold and Frenchay Christmas Tree Farm will be welcoming visitors from on as Christmas presents. will be open from 9am to 5pm latebikes November Christmas Heday said: "People are Eve. looking to steal to selluntil for Christmas every until Christmas Eve, 9am–5pm day. “Choose and year at own this tree timewill thebe numbers are high. Asevery a council we Pickevery and cut your and Cutâ€? runs for as long as stocks maybe be There more will proactive people of the risks. runningshould as usual. also bein telling last. Prices start from just ÂŁ25. Stay Andy Robinson of a step ladder stay seenwell. at the an Cllr option to to click andraised collect,the issue warm, stay happy, Merry back of a property near Millennium Green, thought to be used in a to pick-up-and-go, or to have Christmas! your tree delivered, which can be burglary. arranged through website, Cllr Monk saidtheir privacy issues in thewww.frenchaychristmastreefarm. past had prevented the via social media, or byas phoning the would installation of CCTV the cameras co.uklook into residents' number below. gardens.

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OPEN EVERY DAY UNTIL CHRISTMAS EVE FROM 9AM TILL 5pm Got News?contact Call 0117 9082121 news@henleazeandwestburyvoice.co.uk To advertise, ruth@filtonvoice.co.uk or Richard on 0777 555 0607 or RuthEmail: on 07590 527664

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21

A Christmas message from Filton MP Jack Lopresti

2

Thanks to our heroes and brighter days ahead

020 will be a year that we will all remember.

A year when our lives had to change in ways that we couldn’t even imagine last Christmas. We’ve stayed at home, stayed alert, protected the NHS and undoubtedly saved lives through our collective efforts to look out for one another in the battle against a terrible virus.

While the summer brought some relief, with the reward of good weather allowing us to make the most of the great outdoors, winter has been tougher. The introduction of new national restrictions is not something any of us wanted, but it was right to make sure that we didn’t go back to where we were in March. Luckily, thanks to everyone following the rules and staying safe, we can already see the number of cases across South Gloucestershire and the country start to fall and we can look

forward to Christmas and the new year with renewed hope.

We can be hopeful not just because cases are falling but also because, as I write this, we have heard news of a third successful vaccine trial, the Oxford vaccine

by AstraZeneca. With this, the Pfizer vaccine and the Moderna vaccine we can be hopeful about a return to something a little more like normal life by Easter, according to Health Secretary Matt Hancock. This

is a remarkable scientific achievement, not just for our own country and scientists but people around the world who have worked night and day to understand this virus and work out how we can put a stop to this pandemic.

If there is one thing that we can take from all this, it is the strength of our collective endeavour. Our heroes in the frontline health service, including the South West Critical Care Transfer Service, whom I nominated for the NHS Parliamentary Awards, and who have been named regional champions, have led the fight against this virus. Doctors, nurses, paramedics, porters; every member of the NHS team around the country have kept us safe, treated us when we’re sick and kept the country going.

And it’s not just staff in the NHS. Essential workers in every sector have kept the country

on the road. Supermarket workers have made sure we have everything we need for our weekly shop. Lorry drivers have been putting in the miles, delivering online shopping and transporting medical equipment.

We can’t forget, too, those who serve and are deployed overseas, serving Queen and country to keep us safe and helping the world’s most vulnerable people.

There will be brighter days ahead. A vaccine on the horizon heralds a return to normal life, not just in this country but around the world. I believe that the strength and resolve of this period will carry us through into whatever future we decide to build for ourselves and future generations.

This is going to be a very different Christmas, but we will all have to make the best of it and I wish you all a Happy Christmas, and a much better New Year.

Advertising feature

Welcome to Shield Road Primary School We want our pupils to enjoy their education, to be successful and reach their own unique potential. We expect them to work hard and persevere when they feel challenged. We encourage them to be independent learners and to develop a sense of responsibility. We want them to be honest, courteous and have a caring attitude.

Shields Ave, Northville, Bristol BS7 0RR | Phone: 01454 867185 www.shieldroadprimaryschool.org.uk | enquiries@shieldroad.org.uk

What do others say about our school?

“I found the school to be calm and orderly. Pupils engage in their learning well and show enthusiasm in their learning. Many of the pupils were keen to talk to me about how much they enjoy school. They feel that they are both challenged to achieve highly and supported well to be successful” (Ofsted 2018) “You have ensured that safeguarding arrangements are suitably rigorous, creating a culture where pupils are safe and staff are alert to early signs of distress.”

(Ofsted, 2018.)

‘Strong leadership team’ ‘in depth knowledge of the children’ ‘compassionate leadership’ ‘highly inclusive’ (Local authority 2020) “I thought I would just send an email to saw how lovely it is that my daughter comes home talking about all the positive things that happen at school.

Thank you so much for all that you do each and every day.” (Parent) “Lovely, happy atmosphere in this school. (Parent) ” Approachable, supportive, friendly.” (Parent) “My child has never experienced racism or bullying.”

(Parent) “We learn loads of stuff every day” (Child) “Shield Road is a fun place to be. The teachers are fab” (Child)

Got a story or any other inquiry? Call Richard on 0777 555 0607 or email richard@filtonvoice.co.uk

Filton planning applications November 81 Kenmore Crescent The erection of a single storey rear extension, which would extend beyond the rear wall of the original house by 3.6m, for which the maximum height would be 3.7m, and for which the height of the eaves would be 3.4m.

58 Northville Road Erection of a single storey rear extension, installation of 1 no. rear dormer to facilitate change of use from residential dwelling (Class 3) to a large house in multiple occupation for up to 7 people (sui generis).

2 Wades Road Demolition of existing front and side boundary wall and erection of new 1.8m wall with iron gates (amendment to previously approved scheme P20/17375/F)

7 Holmdale Road Erection of a two storey side and a single storey rear extension to form additional living accommodation.

3 Stanley Crescent Erection of single storey rear and two storey side extension to form additional living accommodation.

Waste Transfer Station Northway Screening opinion proposed redevelopment of waste transfer site.

39 Conygre Grove Discharge of condition 3 (Cycle and bin storage and electric charging point) attached to planning permission P20/12669/F. Erection of a two storey side extension to faciliate change of use from dwelling (Class C3) to 7 person, 7 bedroom HMO (Sui Generis) as defined in the Town and Country Planning (Use Classes) Order 1987 (as amended).

578 Filton Avenue Demolition of existing conservatory.

Erection of single storey front and rear extension to form additional living accommodation. Alteration to roofline to form loft conversion.

Alteration to roofline of existing garage.

Construction of new vehicular access onto Filton Avenue

718 Southmead Road Installation of enlarged rear dormer, erection of two storey side/rear extension and single storey rear extension to provide additional living accommodation. Erection of two storey, detached building with external staircase to form garage and annex ancillary to the main dwellinghouse.

38 Gayner Road Erection of two storey side and single storey side/rear extension, installation of rear dormer window and 4 no. roof lights to front elevation to facilitate loft conversion to form additional living accommodation. Creation of new vehicular access point and formation of new vehicular parking area.

106 Lower House Crescent Erection of single storey rear extension to provide additional living accommodation.

Due to space limitations, we are unable to print planning decisions this month. Decisions, more information about these applications and to find out how to make comments, visit website www.southglos.gov.uk/ environment-and-planning

December, 2020

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Advice by Olivia Mowll, Bristol Law Centre

Challenging Disability Benefit decisions

F

U t b i F o e

N

ationally, 75% of PIP and ESA decisions which are appealed are overturned by independent Tribunals.

If you are not sure you have been given the best decision, call or write to the DWP to ask them to reconsider.

This can be as simple as “please can you look at my decision again”.

It is also an opportunity for you to send evidence they might have missed.

They might give the same answer but you can appeal to the Tribunal in writing or at www. gov.uk/appeal-benefit-decision.

DO speak to your GP! Make sure they know about all the difficulties you have.

Medical evidence is often key to successful claims. It can be useful to show you’ve talked to your GP about your issues over a long time.

DO focus on the help you need

f

c m

a most of the time! & DON’T leave anything out!

Decision makers look at how you are on most days, not the best days. Make clear what help you need to do the different actions being assessed. You can find out more on websites such as PIPinfo.net and WCAinfo.net.

DON’T go it alone!

Ask a friend or support worker to attend appointments with you and take notes.

DO contact experts who can help!

Bristol Law Centre supports people with appeals. Get in touch via www.bristollawcentre.org. uk or call 0117 924 8662.

We are members of the South Gloucestershire Advice Service.

For details of how to contact other advice providers, please visit: southglos.gov.uk// documents/South-Glos-Adviceflyer.pdf

Advertising feature Lockdown benefits tribunal a success for client wrongly refused PIP Michelle, 46, came to North Bristol Advice Centre (NBAC) for help after she was awarded 0 points at her Personal Independence Payment (PIP) assessment, despite suffering musculoskeletal problems and acute mental health issues caused by past domestic abuse.

NBAC lodged an appeal on Michelle’s behalf and whilst waiting for confirmation, the country went into lockdown and all face to face work was suspended. A change in service delivery due to the pandemic meant NBAC had to continue working on Michelle’s case remotely, with telephone and email correspondence to prepare her for the tribunal.

When the hearing date arrived, plans to accompany Michelle to the tribunal in person had to be rearranged. Lockdown restrictions forced all hearings over to the telephone so NBAC represented Michelle via a three-way phone call facilitated by HM Courts and Tribunals Service. Michelle’s appeal was successful and she was awarded both the daily living and mobility components of PIP at a total rate of £83.30 per week.

If you or someone you know needs support at an upcoming benefits tribunal please contact North Bristol Advice Centre at team@northbristoladvice. org.uk, call 07731 842 763 or 07595 047 278 or visit www.northbristoladvice. org.uk.

Picture posed by model

Money or benefits problems?

We are Debt and Welfare Benefits specialists Call 07731 842 763, 07595 047 278 or visit www.northbristoladvice.org.uk

FREE expert advice in North Bristol and South Gloucestershire

Got a story or any other inquiry? Call Richard on 0777 555 0607 or email richard@filtonvoice.co.uk NBAC SG services adaw.indd 1

18/09/2020 8:48 am

a S w f e M 9 o

w o

Here’s to a cosy Christmas at home…

Wishing you a happy & festive Christmas from all at Ocean.

December, 2020

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Review - drive-in movies in Filton

A-list experience for all the family Well it was actually late Sunday afternoon, when I packed the kids, the snacks and the other half, into the car for a trip to our very first drive-in movie experience.

Sited on Filton airfield, we joined a very long queue of folk attempting to get in, dreading the viewing points left available or even worse – missing the start of the film.

I needn't have worried. The organisation was like magic. We drove in and were directed to a space.

We could see beautifully and the rest of the queue were all snuggled in their spaces in plenty of time Due to an unfortunate last minute let-down there was no food available to buy on site but we brought plenty with us, having been informed ahead of time in the morning.

As a family we sat and enjoyed Beetlejuice, which 75 per cent of the car’s occupants

had never seen, and a fun filled evening was enjoyed by all.

Even if the film seemed dated, the experience was refreshing – knowing we were covid safe but actually out from the four walls

we were all very fed up with at home.

Clean, tidy, excellently organised with super friendly and helpful staff, I would highly recommend booking for their

fabulous Christmas movies coming soon.

The cost per car of £27.50 plus booking fee seems reasonable – just a little more than an evening at the local cinema, which of course we are unable to enjoy – but with the added bonus of supermarket prices for our treats.

We can't wait to go back to watch a Christmas classic in a fun and safe way this December Tickets for Adventure Drive-In are priced at £27.50 + Booking fee and are available now via: adventuredrivein. co.uk/locations.

Ticket holders will be given a 100% money-back guarantee should anything mean that the events cannot go ahead.

Adventure Drive-In will be back in Filton between December 18 and 23 with 12 films to choose from including Home Alone, Elf, The Greatest Showman, Gremlins and others.

Ruth Drury

e p a h s Help

E R U T U F THE R REGION U O F O We’re developing a Spatial Development Strategy to create a greener, more connected and inclusive place to live and work.

Have your say to make sure new homes, employment spaces and transport are planned in the right places at www.westofengland-ca.gov.uk/future-of-the-region For a paper copy or information in an alternative format, contact 0117 428 6210 or planning@westofengland-ca.gov.uk.

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December, 2020

A Christmas message from Rev Lizzie Gregory, St Peter's, Filton

Our community has brought light to dark times

W

ell, what a year it has been! Thinking back to writing this letter last year, I could never have imagined that 2020 would turn out the way it has; but here we are and somehow, for the most of us, we have just about made it to the end.

There will of course have been losses for us all, both to Covid-19 and to other illness but those of us who remain find ourselves about to face a very different Christmas and a new year which still seems uncertain.

Without a doubt, this has probably been one of the toughest years that we will collectively have experienced.

The effects are far from over, and perhaps still haven’t been fully felt. However, to look back and simply focus on the difficulties, is going to do nothing other than drive ourselves further into a pit of despair. I’m not

saying we should be endlessly positive, ignoring all that has been so heartbreaking for so many, but I think we each have a responsibility to think about even just one thing that has bought hope or comfort or light through the dark times of 2020.

Friendship, fellowship, help, humanity, kindness, time, understanding, thankfulness, neighbourliness - these are just some of the many things I have seen amongst our own community here in Filton.

Such wonderful qualities that have come to the fore when people have most been in need.

It has been heartwarming and in many respects has restored peoples' faith in humanity as we witness people coming together, sometimes by staying apart, to look out for those in need, to protect the most vulnerable.

Into the midst of that need, we are about to welcome once again, the most wonderful gift of grace that we could receive.

I’m sure I’m not alone in almost yearning for that moment of clarity, when on Christmas Day we welcome the Christ child into our midst. In his Son, Jesus Christ, God offers himself to us not from afar, but from within humanity, from within the problems of this world and from within the pain and darkness which Covid-19 has brought.

As Christmas comes near, I urge you all to celebrate those things which have bought

you light through this time of darkness. When the true light, the light that shines out in the darkness comes on Christmas Day, lets recognise the hope and the comfort that He brings. A hope which we so desperately need.

This year especially, please do something for yourselves and those you love the most. Not grand gestures, or endless piles of presents but instead simply let one another know exactly what they mean to you. Take the time to thank each other, to check in with each other and then allow Jesus to bring into your heart and your home that comfort, that hope and that love that He brings in abundance. You never know, doing so might just help you to heal what has been and strengthen you for what is to come.

With every blessing for you and all those whom you love,

Revd Lizzie

A WARM WELCOME AWAITS AT FIELD HOUSE NURSING HOME Field House in Horfield offers safe and nurturing care Whilst we are taking care to ensure distancing, residents are still enjoying daily activities, and access to our beautiful gardens. We also have the technology to keep our residents in ‘virtual’ touch with their families.

We also ensure: • Strict Infection Control measures approved by Public Health England are fully implemented • Care staff wear PPE at all times and we have ensured a high volume of supply

“Field Field House remains a place of happy daily life and excellent nursing care.” care Dee, Nurse Manager

• Skilled nurses are on site 24/7 and respiratory equipment is at hand • Safe face-to-face visits where possible

We’d love to hear from you and we’d be very happy to give you a virtual tour of the home...

Give us a call on 0117 969 0990 or visit our website at bristolcarehomes.co.uk To advertise, contact ruth@filtonvoice.co.uk or Richard on 0777 555 0607 or Ruth on 07590 527664

December, 2020

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Council pledges to get tough on litter louts

by BBC LDRS staff for Filtonvoice Uniformed officers armed with body cameras could soon be patrolling the streets of Filton as part of a crackdown on littering and flytipping.

The street enforcement officers will be able to hand out fines of £150 for littering, graffiti and fly posting.

But they will take an “educate and inform” approach first, and will be able to exercise their discretion when it comes to issuing fixed penalty notices to vulnerable people such as the homeless.

The move is part of a new policy adopted by South Gloucestershire Council, regulating how it enforces environmental offences.

Some parts of Filton are regularly affected by flytipping - especially back lanes without gates - and littering is often raised at town council meetings with the large numbers of takeaways blamed by residents.

The policy comes after the Conservative-led authority raised fines for environmental offences to the maximum allowed last year.

Leader Toby Savage told cabinet members who approved the new policy last week that “getting tough” on environmental

crime was “integral” to the administration’s approach to protecting its roads, high streets and open spaces.

The new policy sets out how the council’s enforcement officers will deal with environmental offences including littering, graffiti, fly posting, fly tipping, rubbish presentation, and antisocial behaviour.

Patrols will be carried out regularly in “hotspot” areas and periodically in other areas, according to a report to the meeting on November 2.

“The patrolling officers will be in uniform with body cameras which will increase their visibility which will act as a deterrent,” the report said.

“FPNs [fixed penalty notices] will be issued as appropriate when officers witness environmental crimes or followed up where necessary by prosecution.

“This will be done working together with the experienced

and successful envirocrime enforcement officers.”

Fly tipping offences are prosecuted in the first instance.

Fines for all other environmental offences range from £80 to £300 and all come with a prompt payment discount.

No one under the age of 18 will be fined to avoid the criminalisation of minors.

Street enforcement officers are yet to be recruited and this may be delayed by the coronavirus pandemic, cabinet members heard.

Income from the fines collected will be reinvested in the council’s work to educate the public about, and enforce, environmental offences.

Littering has got worse in the past few years in South Gloucestershire, according to the cabinet report.

But the council has had limited resources to issue enforcement notices, issuing only 50 in 2018 and 41 in 2019.

Got a story or any other inquiry? Call Richard on 0777 555 0607 or email richard@filtonvoice.co.uk

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December, 2020

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Christmas gift appeal for children in need

by Steve Lambert People and businesses are being urged to show the gift of kindness to children in the area.

Every Child Needs Christmas (ECNC) aims to get a present out to any youngster who might not otherwise receive one.

The campaign collected and distributed 700 gifts when it began six years ago.

By last year, its growing success enabled it to send 12,200 presents out into the community.

ECNC is asking for donations of new and sealed, non-edible gifts for ages 0-16 around the £5-£7 mark.

It then distributes them to children in areas with a BS postcode, including Filton.

Because of Covid-19 restrictions, the only drop-off points are in Weston-superMare. But people can instead use the following Amazon wish list link - https://amzn.to/2MBcjRL – to donate without leaving their homes, and the gift will arrive at the campaign’s HQ. Retailers are being encouraged to set up an Every Child Needs Christmas purchase point in their shop with items that fall into the campaign’s category. ECNC will advertise where the supporting businesses are so that people can pop in and purchase.

Any business wishing to take part must contact the organisers so they can receive a registration code.

To do so, find Every Child Needs Christmas on Facebook

(see the link below) and send them a message.

The campaign works with organisations including charities, places of worship and social care teams, which refer children to ECNC so they can receive a present. It also sends generic gifts to food banks.

Campaigner founder Sara Arshad said: “For many in our local area, Christmas isn’t something they look forward to. It’s another occasion that highlights their struggle.

“For the families that we work with via organisations that A Will protect your your family’sfamily’s inheritance support them, food is the main A Willlets letsyou you protect inheritance and decide youryour assets are shared out – if out you – if you concern. and decidehow how assets are shared WEB-CAM don’t make a Will, the law says who gets what.

"Gifts aren’t even really on the don’t make a Will, the law says who gets what. radar.”

And children in this situation Please feel free find it hard when they return to call us during to school after the holidays and are asked what they got for office hours on: Christmas.

“Father Christmas didn’t visit, 0117 952 0698 their caregivers didn’t gift. The challenges for their mental health or email and wellbeing that this presents info@elm-online.co.uk is utterly heartbreaking. www.elm-online.co.uk "So we can all get together as a community and make a info@elm-online.co.uk We have teamteam of We havea aBristol-based Bristol-based of trained difference. trained Willawriting consultants whocan now We have Bristol-based team Will writing consultants who Mirror Wills Single Or www.elm-online.co.uk "For many, this will be the can now provide the same personal of trained Will writing consultants provide the same personal face to face face to face meetings via our Couples FROM £99.00 only gift that they receive and for who provide a and, home visiting serviceand, meetings via our Web-Cam-Wills Web-Cam-Wills subject to health these children and families this and safety, canto take your instructions in can the still subject safety, we and wehealth can stilland provide a homereally will mean so much.” visiting service to take your instructions in We have ayour Bristol-based team comfort own home. provide aofhomeMirror Wills Single Or the comfort of your own home.

For more information about visiting service to writing take of trained Will consultants Couples FROM £99.00 the campaign, go to https:// your instructions the visiting Making Secure Plansservice for Uncertain Futures who provide a inhome comfort of your own www.facebook.com/childsxmas/ and can take your instructions in the home.

The campaign mostly delivers of your own home. your family’s inheritance to Weston-s-Mare Bristol, A Will lets you protectcomfort and decide how your assets are shared out – if you Clevedon, Portishead, South Glos don’t make a Will, the law says who gets what. and Keynsham.

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CHRISTMAS PUZZLES for all For younger readers

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.

4

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3 2

9 7 3 2

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Each row, column and square (4 spaces each) needs to be filled out with the numbers 1-4, without repeating any numbers within the row, column or square.

Solution

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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

Across 1. 782253 4. 264357 5. 8697 7. 44387 9. 7726237

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Theme: Christmas

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Š www.ActivityVillage.co.uk - Keeping Kids Busy

Y A R O L F O L

20

19

Christmas word search ... can you find them all?

M C A N G E L J

Our lovely Christmas angel dot to dot will keep the children busy. Join the dots from 1 to 60.

57 53

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29

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The FIEND

To advertise, contact ruth@filtonvoice.co.uk or Richard on 0777 555 0607 or Ruth on 07590 527664

Trade ROOFING services AERIAL SERVICES

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