Filtonvoice February 2020

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filtonvoice February 2020 Issue 101

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Shake, grapple 'n' roll

Photo by Wrestleography

The Pod in the Park cafe kiosk has been forced to close down after just a few months of operation with rising costs fording the decision.

The kiosk was taken over by the Filton-based FACE youth and community charity last year and run as a social enterprise to employ adults with learning difficulties along with two managers.

But although the kiosk proved popular and sales were good, the venture had not managed to secure enough fundraising cash to make it

Wrestling comes to Filton, Pages 12 and 13

35% rise could make Filton precept highest in the country

Sadness as Pod in the Park forced to close

Residents set to pay an increase of around ÂŁ80 per year as leisure centre faces shortfall

Pages 2-4

m ve

Turn to Page 9

'Racism' probe Police were called to Abbeywood School after an allegation of racism was made by a student.

It was reported in the national press that a staff member had described burned toast as 'disgusting', then compared it to the colour of a pupil's skin.

Police have confirmed the Turn to Page 13

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Contacts Richard Coulter Editor and publisher

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07513 517 593 | ruth@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, 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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February, 2020

n NEWS

Councillors divided as town council precept payment to rise by 35% Filton could have the largest council tax precept in the country after residents were landed with a massive 35 per cent hike in Filton Town Council’s share of the council tax, a rise of more than £80 per year to £315.

Based on figures from last year from the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Filton would be the highest charging out of more than 8,000 'normal' parishes.

There are two London areas which house court buildings, referred to as 'Temples', which are higher but these are not parishes in the normal sense.

The highest normal precept last year was South Kirkby and Moorthorpe in Wakefield, at £306. Filton, with a precept of £232 last year, was 17th of all the parishes.

The biggest element of Filton's precept will go towards propping up the leisure centre and pool. Councillors are currently engaging with a consultant to investigate ways of keeping the leisure centre sustainable.

Added to the amounts charged by South Gloucestershire Council, which makes up the bulk of the council tax, and the police and fire services, final bills

landing on Filton householders’ doormats for 2020/21 will exceed £2,000.

A stormy meeting of the Filton Town Council finance committee saw councillors vote for the rise by 7-5.

In a named vote, Labour councillors Adam Monk, Mubashar Chaudhry, Darryl Collins, Tom Mewies, Ailsa Johnstone, Alex Doyle and Brian Mead voted for the rise.

Conservatives Chris Wood, John Tucker and Anne Kenyon, along with Independent Andy Robinson and UKIP's Keith Briffett, all opposed the rise.

Cllr Ian Scott was not present.

Cllrs Johnstone and Doyle said that while they voted for the increase now, they wanted to be sure that the leisure centre was sustainable in the future.

In a joint statement they said: "(We are) only voting for the proposal to allow time for the consultant to report on options for the leisure centre and, if none of those options are viable, for the centre to be wound down in a cost effective way in which the public are kept fully informed."

Accountant Derek Kemp told the meeting that since his last analysis, things had got worse with budgeted income now

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3

n NEWS Filton Sports and Leisure Centre

falling short by £102,000 and expenditure exceeding income by £37,000.

He said that in order to have a balanced budget next year, and have cash reserves of around £70,000 (well below the recommended level), an extra £206,000 would need to be raised in precept.

He said: "I can't see any

alternative. The cost of running the leisure centre next year will be £610,000."

This includes leisure centre salaries.

He confirmed the other main cost was council administration,

at £266,000 and added that if the precept was not passed, there would not be enough money to run the pool and the council would also be facing redundancy costs.

"History shows we have been falling short of budget expectations. The age of the leisure centre is part of the problem as it is old and dated and has had no significant investment in a number of years."

Cllr Wood said the council had been too slow to act and should have called in the consultant nine months ago.

Cllr Wood, who represents Filton on both South Glos and the town council, said: “This is an extremely disappointing decision and one that I strongly oppose.

“The town council’s callous attitude towards offering any form of value for money to residents borders on sheer

negligence. It was bad enough when we thought the precept would be increasing by 26 per cent, but for them to increase it to this level, making us one of the highest precepts in the country, exposes the shocking level of inefficiency residents are being lumbered with.

“While no doubt this decision will not be welcomed in the court of public opinion, I want to see a formal investigation launched to get to the bottom of this.”

Cllr Wood said that despite such a vast tax hike, services would see a minimal increase in financial support, with an overwhelming majority of funds going towards keeping the aging leisure centre afloat.

He said less than 0.5 per cent of its budget currently goes on its parks and public open spaces,

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February, 2020

n NEWS

Councillor and resident views on precept rise Councillor Chris Wood Also South Glos councillor Voted AGAINST precept rise

F

ilton Town Council maintains two parks, Filton Leisure Centre and our allotments.

For this they have decided to charge local Band D residents £315.32 for the privilege, a 35% increase on the previous year, and increased prices at the leisure centre.

This is an extremely disappointing decision and one that I strongly oppose. The town council’s callous attitude towards offering any form of value for money to residents borders on sheer negligence.

Unfortunately this has been building for years and has now come to the fore.

It was bad enough when the Draft Budget in November outlined that the precept would be increasing by 26%, but for them to increase it to this level, making us one of the highest precepts in the whole country, exposes the shocking level of inefficiency residents are being lumbered with.

The Council has finally, at my request, brought in an external consultant to review options for the loss-making leisure centre, whilst that is ongoing.

I am looking into the internal workings of the council because I simply don’t believe we are getting value for money.

From Page 3 with less than four per cent on community services.

But Labour Cllr Adam Monk, who is also a South Gloucestershire and Filton town councillor, said: “Nobody thinks the precept increase is acceptable but the leisure centre is a muchloved community asset.

“It is not the case that people want to close it down.

“Residents are annoyed about the precept increase and so are councillors.

“It’s really important to recognise there is an options appraisal under way that is looking at what can be done differently in the way the facility is managed.

“That could be putting it into a co-operative, handing it over to a charity or just closing it down, which I would not support.

“But it cannot carry on the

Councillor Mubashar Chaudhry Chair of Finance Voted FOR precept rise

T

he precept increase was a hard decision which councillors took reluctantly.

They were left with two options, either not to approve the budget and let South Glos decide the fate of the Town Council and one possible outcome could be the closure of the pool and other facilities along with a higher precept to cover redundancy cost.

The other option was to approve it with reservations and wait for consultant’s report to give a possible option of going forward.

The main reason behind the budget deficit (which is funded through the precept increase) is the continued reduction in income from the pool and rising costs of managing it.

There are more modernised pools around the area along with gym and other facilities which are affecting FTC pool sales. The other reason is the age of the pool which is contributing to high running cost. The pool needs major refurbishment.

Depending on the consultant's recommendations, I feel FTC should consult with residents if the outcome is additional cost or closure of the pool.

Our children learn life saving skills from the pool. I urge all residents to participate in all future meetings.

way it’s currently working and no one is remotely proposing that.”

Cllr Monk said South Gloucestershire Council cuts were also responsible for the high charges.

“It is not as simplistic as just the pool.

"You have to look at the entirety of what makes up the precept,” he said.

“In South Gloucestershire the Conservative administration has cut services that Filton Town Council now has to pick up.

“The town council now pays over £3,000 for grass-cutting, and it pays for services like North Bristol Advice Centre and summer playschemes.

“It pays £3,500 for community enhancement which South Gloucesterhire ran and £3,000 for Christmas lights.

“So as much as the leisure centre is the biggest thing, there are other services that

used to be provided by South Gloucestershire but are now the burden of Filton Town Council, including £17,500 for youth centres.

“We do not have a knife crime problem in Filton but the biggest single problem in that regard in London is the lack of youth centres, which means children have nowhere to go and hang out on the streets, which creates a gang problem.

“South Gloucestershire Council is not providing any youth centres in Filton but, like all these services, they are still needed, so the town council has to pick that up in the precept.”

At present, the town council’s charge for band D residents is £233.69, which means it will go up by £81.59 from April.

Filton leisure centre is the only one in the district to be run by a town or parish council.

Residents speak out on Facebook

I

think the leisure centre is a largely dated idea, but I am happy to contribute to help the disadvantaged but moving forward it must become more sustainable. Too many ideologues on the council maybe, rather than pragmatic individuals?

I

feel like this is completely ridiculous to up the tax for something that is hugely outdated and needs to be changed to something else. The councillors who voted in favour should explain their reasons.

W

hat makes me sad is that, as a full-time working mum, the window of opportunity for me to take my son swimming is so small, with holiday closures and restricted hours over the weekend. I would happily support the facility if it was actually open for public swimming like any other pool.

T

he £80 a year is £6.70 a month (band D). From my band B bill, I think it ends up being about £60... £5 a month. That’s a slightly pricey pint... or a frivolous coffee and cake.

New Filton precept amounts per year by property band A £210.21 B £245.25 C £280.28 D £315.32 (last year £232) E £385.39 F £455.46 G £525.53 H £630.64 * This is on top of South Glos, Fire, Police and Social Care total

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n NEWS

Family so important as Ann reflects on 100 years and fond Filton memories On December 26 2019, Ann Bateman reached 100 years of age. Sixty of those years were spent living and working in Filton.

Ann has seen the passing of her two late husbands and the growth of her family with children, grand children and great grand children, and she is particularly fond of the youngest member of the family, two-yearold Max. She has also been a member of the Filton Chest and Heart charity for several years.

Discussing the changes that she has witnessed in her time spent in Filton, Ann said: “The planes have stopped coming over.”

For Ann this is of significance as Ann and every member of her family had worked for BAC. Most memorable for her was a gift that put a bow around her relationship with the aeronautical industry and Filton, when Ann and her late husband were passengers on the very last Concorde flight.

After work was over Ann and her friends loved to dance in the local clubs. “Ballroom, foxtrot, that type of dancing, We’d go anywhere that was open.”

Quite a different experience from her first job in the

Yorkshire Wool Mills, working from the age of 14.

“I worked on the spinners.”

Ann said. “We couldn’t afford much after work, only getting half a crown a week (equivalent to today's 25p).” .

During the war Ann was in munitions, working 12 hour shifts. Afterwards, life was tough.

She said: “We came to Filton after the plane factories closed down, first in Yorkshire and then Portsmouth.”

Looking back at her life, Ann has no regrets and although she is no longer able to walk outside, she still knits and is visited daily by her daughter, Anne and other members of her family whom she sees as her greatest achievement.

When discussing disappointments in life, Ann said “Weston-super-Mare. But perhaps we were spoiled and expected too much after living in Portsmouth.”

Ann is greatly appreciated by her family, always making sure that she receives both Christmas and birthday gifts each year, but for Ann, the gift is simply being with them.

As my conversation with Ann came to an end I asked if she had been happy in Filton. She spoke confidently, simply saying "Yes I have."

Ann with Brian Smith of Filton Chest and Heart.

Below, Ann aged 50

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February, 2020

n NEWS

Filton set to get games area - but concerns raised that location is wrong

Below left, the original designs for Filton's MUGA in 2012. Opposite, the tennis courts

The site of the Elm Park tennis courts to create a 'Multi-UseGames-Area (MUGA)' is the wrong location, Filton councillors were told.

Town clerk Lesley Reuben has secured £95,000 funding from South Glos councillors for the project as part of a £310,000 package of improvements to open spaces across the county.

This pot of money is not from council tax payers but has been secured from developers, socalled '106 money'.

A meeting of the town council heard the project was broadly welcomed but community garden chairman Dave Mikkelson said the location was wrong for two reasons.

He said the close proximity to the Springfield elderly people's residence would create noise issues in the evening. He also

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n NEWS said using the tennis courts would require the walls to be knocked down, which would ruin community garden displays, including those created by local schools.

Instead, Mr Mikkelson said, the council should consider the natural amphitheatre in the rarely used cycle speedway opposite the children's play area. He said this would be a good use of an unused space, which originally cost the council £45,000, and would be ideal with the grass slopes being a natural viewing area.

The council will now consider this option and Mrs Reuben will present a business plan before the funding is released.

Filton previously pursued building a MUGA in 2012 but the project was abandoned due to lack of funds.

A South Glos spokesperson said: "Public open spaces and sports facilities across South Gloucestershire are set to benefit from more than £310,000 of improvements, through funding

that South Gloucestershire Council has secured from local developments.

"The money, which has been secured via a section 106 agreement with developers, will deliver improvements to local sports pitches and tracks, playing fields, multi-use games areas and play areas, and will also provide new facilities at sports clubs.

"Areas to benefit from the

latest round of developer funding include Filton, Little Stoke, Patchway, Almondsbury and Soundwell, with a combined total of £311,809.50 being invested into a variety of new and improved facilities.

"Amongst the recipients are Filton Town Council who will get £95,000 to convert two tennis courts to multi-use games areas."

Cllr Rachael Hunt, Cabinet

Member for Communities and Tourism, said: “I am delighted that South Gloucestershire Council has been able to negotiate this funding from developers, which help deliver a number of improvements to open spaces across the area. It is important to provide spaces for people of all ages to be active and enjoy the outdoors.

"As a council we are committed to improving our communities, with almost £10 million having been invested into our open areas and green spaces since 2015.”

South Gloucestershire Council has an ongoing programme grant applications to enhance the quality of its green spaces.

Funding has been provided by various bodies such as developers, Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF), and People’s Postcode Lottery, among other external sources. The Council has successfully delivered £9.5 million of improvements to its parks and open spaces over the last five years.

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n NEWS

Spiralling costs force Pod in the Park social enterprise to close From Page 1 sustainable, with costs of £3,000 per month.

The trustees of FACE will now review the operation and explore options for the future, which could include more limited opening hours.

The kiosk is owned by Filton Town Council who had offered a rent free arrangement for the first few months.

FACE director Debbie Teml said: "It may be that we ran before we could walk.

"Sales were never going to be enough and we did not have enough fundraising in place with five staff part time as well as two managers/supervisors doing 16 hours per week.

"It was costing £3,000 per month which used our reserves."

Debbie said there are hopes that a combination of community volunteers, Airbus graduates willing to help and different opening hours, maybe at weekend to attract footballers and families using the park, could mean there is still hope for the kiosk.

She added: "It is really sad as the social and community aspect of it was amazing."

The kiosk has had a troubled few years with FACE being the third operation in recent times. The Hatch, run by Gavin Horswell, ceased trading due to rent costs and Elm Eats closed just months after caterer Aaron Phillips began trading.

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February, 2020

n NEWS

Our flood misery after heavy rain

by Shane Gibson Holly Green, Robert Martin and Margaret Martin are neighbours living opposite each other on Conygre Grove.

Each of them have been plagued with flooding whenever the street falls foul of heavy rain.

Now they are calling on Wessex Water or South Glos Council to ensure it does not happen any more.

Holly said: “As soon as it rains, it floods both gardens.”

Margaret added: “To leave the house or to get in to a car requires walking through muddy water, it’s just not good enough.”

Robert said: “A machine is brought out by the council. They suck out the mud, but they have not solved the problem nor ever given a reason for the blockage that causes the flooding.

"The mess is left over the houses. The council have been

out four times in the past 18 years.”

"The council have to come out, put a probe down there, discover what the cause of the blockage is and solve it."

The three of them said that one occasion the council

carried out an investigation via a manhole in the middle of the street.

“That was about 5 or 6 years ago and it's the most they have done." Robert said.

They say that they are tired of having to contact South Gloucestershire Council and are now demanding that the problem is tackled.

Robert said: "Council - do your job, we pay our rates."

On Facebook, residents claimed the cause was due to previous resurfacing work which caused blockages. Another said she had seen frogs floating down the street on one occasion.

A spokesperson for South Gloucestershire Council said: “Although the main drain line in this area belongs to Wessex Water, we will arrange a site visit to survey the area and try to find out what is causing the issue.”

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February, 2020

n FEATURE - WRESTLING IN FILTON

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ilton Community Centre has had no shortage of combat sports. It has been the home of martial arts classes from Krav Maga to Karate. It also hosts Professional Wrestling shows. Before Christmas, South West Wrestling put on a family orientated performance for a packed house. Before it began,I spoke to some of the wrestlers about the importance of shows at the centre.

Bristol-born Alex Howell and his teammate Emilio Martinez said that they felt these shows were inspirational for local communities.

“I think it (wrestling) has a very working class vibe” said Emilio.

“I feel it builds confidence for kids aspiring to do this but believed that it was something

that was out of reach, and when you consider the poverty in the UK it’s a good thing that this is reachable.”

Alex said: “When we were kids there wasn’t this type of thing around, but now kids can see role models who have to train and look after themselves and be good people to be able to progress and do this.”

Wrestler and Postman Ryan Williams shared his experiences.

He said: “I have performed here (Filton Community Centre) four times, this will be my second time as a wrestler. These town shows give communities opportunities to get out and away from their screens to enjoy something together. Filton has a broad audience including families, couples and groups of young adults so our aim is to give a mix of different contests to appeal to everyone.”

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n FEATURE - WRESTLING IN FILTON

Left, Ryan Williams; far left, Emelio Martinez in the white vest with Alex Howell. This page, the action at Filton. Photos by Wrestleography

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Selected prices Show Promoter and former World of Sport star Peter Bainbridge said: “These shows are about getting local guys, South West guys on stage.

"We try and give 100% every show, so the people will want to comeback.

"For £28 you can take the family to a great show and meet

the stars afterwards. Where else can you do that?”

Pete ended our conversation by highlighting perhaps the event's biggest achievement. “I think it’s good to have the fans close to the guys.

"There’s nothing better than seeing the kids' eyes light up when watching the show. ”

Police called after 'racism' allegation From Page 1 incident was reported to them on Thursday 9 January. Officers have made an appointment to speak to the complainant."

Headteacher David Howe said: "At Abbeywood School we take any allegations of racism or any other unacceptable behaviour very seriously and have robust policies and procedures in place for dealing with such matters when they are reported to us. We can confirm that we are in the process of dealing with an allegation made by a student about an incident involving a teaching assistant but are unable to comment further."

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Tel: 0117 969 2701

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Rude but fun Review The Book of Mormon at Bristol Hippodrome Theatre The first thing that hit me about The Book of Mormon (Bristol Hippodrome until February 22) was the audience.

Not that I would PERSONALLY engage in stereotypes of course, but anyone expecting a LloydWebber-esque crowd of middle aged couples and youngish stage school types would have been puzzled. It was like a Bishopston night out - hipster beards, funny caps, audience profile young(ish) and although it was the press night, the audience could not totally be explained by media luvvies.

Admittedly I did spot a fair few of them too - they were right at home.

Rather I suspect it was to do with the South Park generation fast forwarded a few years with creators Trey Parker and Matt Stone having collaborated in this riot of offensiveness. In a format, musicals, where humour is not always the strongest suit, the funny lines in Book of Mormon get more and

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more outrageous as the show goes on. One in particular, as Kevin Bridges might say, even had this audience looking for the offside flag.

The story is one of believing that good things can happen as a result of organised religion, even if the truth gets embellished, when two Mormon ‘elders’ are given the far from dream gig of converting a village in Uganda. One is an All-American jock-type desperate to be assigned to Orlando and the other a geeky idealist.

You knew something a bit different was in the offing in the very first number 'Hello' - a neatly written, musically clever song showing the pristine, white shirted

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Mormons ringing doorbells with limited success.

The bulk of the story is set in Uganda. At times it’s hard to work out who is taking the mickey out of whom. The village is a walking cliché of world-weary residents in mud huts, a bullet-laden ‘General’ who causes much terror and one character who had the best line in the show about ‘maggots in his ****’ (go and see the show).

Family fun it is not. The nightmare sequence featuring Ghengis Khan, a camp Hitler, OJ Simpson lawyer Johnnie Cochran and, worst of all, two caffeine-filled cups of Starbucks - was a joy. It is one of those setpieces taken so seriously in ‘real’ musicals, all glitz

February, 2020

and glamour, but with ludicrous touches-a-plenty here.

But the real fireworks start when the villagers re-enact the story of Mormon founders Joseph Smith and Brigham Young. Let’s just say there were references to Aids, dysentery, frogs and props perhaps acquired from Ann Summers.

Yet for all this, it is not a show for those seeking to poke a liberal bit of mean fun at organised religion.

The message seems to be that although slightly cooky, the Mormons are really not that bad and are genuinely trying to make things better even if achieved by chucking the Book or Mormon away and just making it all up. It was cutting, but not to the bone and anyway, who really has all the answers? It may never be in the top 10 of musicals for the best songs, but as a show that is different, genuinely hilarious and which will have moments stamped on your mind for years to come (not all pleasant), it’s one to choose. But be quick, tickets are selling fast.

For tickets, visit: www. atgtickets.com/shows/the-bookof-mormon/bristol-hippodrome/ Review by Richard Coulter

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n NEWS

Bar and barber combination popular in village

by Shane Gibson Barbering and booze might not be a regular combination, but The Square in Cheswick Village has had life poured in to the its once empty units with the opening of BessellScotts 'Bar-ber' Lounge this past October.

A mix of traditional barber apparatus upstairs, eloquently styled tables and chairs and the bar below, give a rural ambience to the lounge - BessellScotts certainly stands out.

Co-owner Christopher Scott said: “There is no other place like this, on this scale within the UK. "Our clientele ranges from students, to young couples and parents with children.

"Mothers have been bringing their children to the barbers and getting a cheeky wine.”

When asked about the risks of mixing alcohol with scissors Chris responded said: “The barber shop is open until 6pm,

Alyx, Christopher and Mitch. Right, the interior so no one is cutting air once the evening customers come in.

“We have a duty of care if someone has been drinking too much and wants to get their hair cut whilst the barber shop is open, I will send them away and tell them that they are welcome to comeback tomorrow. Nobody wants to wake-up with a haircut they didn’t want."

Like other pubs, BesselScotts hold evening events and have had acoustic performances and

karaoke evenings. We have seven members of staff plus Jodi and myself," said Chris.

“We feel that the square outside would be a great venue to hold a music festival in the future.

"Although we have ambitious intentions, this is and always will be a local’s place.”

Barmaid Alyx Thomas and Barber Mitch Wheytt expressed how they felt about the impact of BessellScotts on the community.

“I was the first member of bar staff to be hired, so I can tell you that from the beginning we have had some really good regulars. Everyone is really happy to be here and I think even more so now that we have added the pool table and dart board," said Alyx.

Mitch added: “Now we’re here you can see it all coming together, the local business help each other. We are like a massive work family."

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email: builders@definitivebristol.co.uk You can find us on Facebook: @DefinitiveHomeImprovements Got a story or any other inquiry? Call Richard on 0777 555 0607 or email richard@filtonvoice.co.uk

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February, 2020

n NEWS

Birth of a new town - first steps in creation of Brabazon on airfield

Local councillors, community leaders and local businesses all came together on in early January for an event to mark the start of construction on the first homes at Brabazon, the new neighbourhood being built on the site of the former Filton Airfield.

With the necessary enabling works having been completed in 2019, Leader of South Gloucestershire Council Toby Savage was joined by the leaders of Filton, Patchway and Almondsbury councils to celebrate as the first foundations are dug on what will ultimately be a £2billion project.

The event also featured community leaders, including the CEOs of Southern Brooks Community Partnership and the Southmead Development Trust, while the local business community was represented by staff from Airbus and Network Rail. Network Rail are building a new station within walking distance of the new homes at Brabazon that will connect to Bristol Temple Meads in less than 15 minutes.

Cllr Savage said: “Filton Airfield is steeped in history.

Today this part of South Gloucestershire is a worldleading hub for engineering and innovation. The new neighbourhood at Brabazon

will provide the homes, offices and infrastructure to allow that amazing commercial cluster to continue to grow.

“This is a major investment into our local community. The project will create new homes and new opportunities and our shared vision is that it will be a place that all local workers, residents and visitors will feel proud of.”

A spokesperson for developer YTL said: "There will be 278 homes within the first phase of this new urban community,

which aims to set a new standard for quality development in the West of England.

"Designed by globally renowned local architects Feilden Clegg Bradley, the range of oneand two-bedroom apartments, and two, three- and fourbedroom homes feature generous rooms, over-sized windows and soaring double-height spaces in selected properties. Set on the edge of a new public park, and arranged among tree-lined avenues and an open square, the first phase at Brabazon

represents a brand new approach to local place-making.

"Furthermore, this first phase is just the start: over the next 20 years, Brabazon is set to become one of the South West’s most desirable districts. Connected to Bristol and beyond by new public transport links, home to innovative businesses, vibrant independent shops and creative cafes and restaurants, it will offer all the energy and edge of city living. Yet, the new library, schools, health centre and sports facilities, all set amongst

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n NEWS

their considered design details, timeless styling, and cuttingedge technology. Our aim is that people will feel the same way about these new homes” “Our vision is to create a thriving new neighbourhood for North Bristol so it’s very special to be joined by leaders from across the local community to mark this major milestone as we dig the first foundations.”

The start of construction at Brabazon is just the latest in a series of exciting announcements that are shaping the future of North Bristol.

Since the Autumn, visitors have been flocking to the area to try out The Wave, the newlyopened inland surfing lake that is one of the most exciting new leisure attractions in the South West. Then in November,

Forums in North Bristol

ousing lH

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Invoet lved March

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Local Housing Forums for Bristol council tenants

YTL Developments submitted a planning application to transform the historic Brabazon Hangars into a supersonic new Arena Complex for Bristol.

The first homes at Brabazon will go on sale in Autumn 2020, with the first residents expected to move in early in 2021. To find out more and register your interest, please visit www. brabazon.co.uk/register

Loc a

landscaped public squares and parkland, will ensure that it remains a comfortable and characterful community."

Jon McDiarmid, Director at YTL Developments said: “The former Filton Airfield was the birthplace of Concorde. We want to make sure that Brabazon lives up to that legacy.

“The iconic aircraft that were built here were known for

2020

Area 1: Monday 2 March 2020 1.30–4pm

Area 2: Tuesday 10 March 2020 5.45–8pm

Avonmouth & Lawrence Weston, Clifton, Clifton Down, Hotwells & Harbourside, Stoke Bishop, Westbury-on-Trym, Henleaze

Ashley Down, Cotham, Horfield, Henbury & Brentry, Redland, Southmead

At: Cote Bank House Community Room, Eastfield Road, Bristol BS9 4AL

At: Stoke Lodge,Shirehampton Road, Bristol BS9 1BN

Your opinions help us make decisions! Come along and discuss your local housing services with the council. If you’re a council tenant, you can have your say on how the housing service is run and can make suggestions about improvements to shared council areas. Housing Officers will also be there to help you with your individual enquiries. FREE tea, coffee and biscuits provided. For information contact: Tenant Participation (0117) 352 1444 or email tpu@bristol.gov.uk. All details at: www.bristol.gov.uk/LocalHousingForums

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

BD12681 - Local Housing Forums (Jan 2020).indd 1

20/01/2020 13:15

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February, 2020

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n NEWS

Mum's noise nightmare in Filton flat

by Shane Gibson Dee Thomas is a 26 year old mother who lives with her 16 month old toddler on Canberra Grove, in a flat managed by housing association Bromford.

She moved into the property in October 2018 but what should have been a fantastic new beginning, became a nightmare.

In the evenings, she says, her young child is woken by noises from the other flats in the property, that under normal circumstances would be considered an acceptable volume.

Bromford say they have invested £100,000 in this and other flats to improve insulation and reduce noise.

They say more work will be done and completed by the end of February.

In Dee's particular property, she says, there is a lack of sound insulation, and even a quiet conversation can be heard from all of the adjacent flats in the building.

Dee’s baby is so disturbed by the noise that Dee has her sleep in her room to try to settle her throughout the night.

She claims that after many calls and home visits from Bromford staff, who she says have agreed that the sound insulation is a problem, she has stopped chasing the housing association due to exhaustion and low mood caused by lack of action.

Dee said that she had reservations when she first viewed the property When she moved in with her ST ANDREW’S METHODIST CHURCH, ELM PARK, FILTON

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child, she said the garden was horrendous.

“They had left rubbish from the refurbishment embedded in the garden when they were fully aware that I was moving in with my baby,” she said.

“I did not want to accept the property but felt pressurised, with the threat of being penalised.

"I had a four week baby at the time so had no choice.”

“After moving in, I had a page and a half of A4 listing jobs that needed doing. The flat was advertised as refurbished, but they (Bromford) seem to be trying to save every penny that they can.“ As for the situation with the noise, an environmental sound assessment has been made.

After receiving the results, Dee claims that Bromford have said that 'they are legally within a barrier so they don't need to do anything'.”

She says she no longer has faith in Bromford, and claimed they “suggested to each of us (Dee and her neighbour’s) that we report each other to the police, for antisocial behaviour.”

Bromford’s director of customer experience Carl Sautereau said: “Before Miss Thomas and the other customers moved into the flats we invested around £100,000 to install new insulation and fit acoustic underlay to minimise noise disruption. Since moving in we have completed remedial work to the gardens and after receiving the reports of noise between the flats, we hired an independent company to carry out a sound test. This found noise levels to be compliant with building regulations.

“However, we appreciate Miss Thomas is unhappy with the noise. As well as investigating additional work to reduce the noise issues, we’ve visited her on several occasions and encouraged her and her neighbours to talk to each other about the issues.

"At the start of January we spoke to customers about our plans to install additional noisereducing underlay by the end of January, with additional work due to be completed by the end of February.”

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

Filton Town Council Meeting dates February

March

25th 7.30pm Full Council Doug Daniels Pavilion

31st 7.30pm Full Council Doug Daniels Pavilion

11th 7.30pm Finance Doug Daniels Pavilion

Contact us Town council office 01454 866 698; filtontowncouncil. gov.uk

10th 7.30pm Finance Doug Daniels Pavilion

Ratepayers Arms

The Ratepayers Arms is situated behind the Dolphin Swimming Pool at Filton Sports and Leisure Centre.

It is owned and run by the Town Council on behalf of the council tax payers of Filton as part of the Filton Sports and Leisure Centre.

The Ratepayers Arms is now a community/family bar showing sport on the big screen, with bar games, a newly renovated Skittle Alley and a good selection of beers, lagers, wines, soft drinks, tea & coffee available.

We also sell hot food and a range of rotating guest ales on a regular basis.

These meetings are open to the public to attend

Normal opening Times Mondays: Noon – 11pm* Tuesday-Saturdays: Noon – 11.30pm* Sundays: Noon – 11pm* *Last orders half an hour before closing time

Leisure Centre 01454 866686

Contact Us Ratepayers Arms – 01454 866686 Bar Manager – Debbie HolmanI Hall Hire: If you are interested in hiring our badminton hall for a function, please contact us on: 01454 866686.

Filton Town Council Aquafit

Our Aquafit classes offer you something different to a traditional gym workout and you’ll really see a difference in your overall health and fitness.

Typical Aqua Aerobics classes will involve all the exercises you would expect in a ‘dry’ class but with added bonuses you can only get from exercising in water.

Water supports the body, putting less stress on your joints and muscles.

• This support is great if you’re older, have suffered an injury or are recovering from illness • Water pressure helps the heart move blood around the body, putting less strain on it • The impact of gravity is less in the water allowing a greater range of motion • Working out in water can also prevent overheating, helping you exercise for longer.

• And... it's fun! It is not often you can say that about a workout. *Tuesdays from 9.15 -10.00am* *Fridays from 9.30 -10.15am* *£5.00 per person on a first come first served basis.*

Inflatable parties available!

If you are looking for something fun and different then book one of our inflatable parties, you. You will have exclusive use of the pool and inflatable! *Users must be able to swim 25 metres. £150 for up to 25 children. Available Saturday & Sunday afternoon. For more information please call us on 01454 866686

Spinning is back!

Friday morning HIIT sessions with Marcella. 8.00 - 8.30am. Join us for an early morning spin session and receive a free swimming pass to help you with your fitness goals throughout 2020!

Only £5.00 per session. Booking is essential.

Benefits of Spinning:* *Burn calories *Muscle definition *Cardiovascular strength *Low impact *Stress reliever

Activities at Filton Sports & Leisure centre: Do you know we are more than just a swimming pool? We have Walking Netball, Legs bums and tums classes, Bootcamp fitness and Zumba classes, all going on throughout the week.

We also are the venue for Slimming world and Weightwatchers in Filton.

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February, 2020

n FILTON PLANNING APPLICATIONS - January Applications

86 Northville Road Installation of hip to gable roof extension of rear dormer to facilitate loft conversion.

54 Fourth Avenue Installation of rear dormer and a hip to gable loft conversion.

Parcels RO3 And RO4 Former Filton Airfield Non-material amendments to planning application PT18/5892/ RM to amend the following: Floor levels of plots 246 to 252; Boundary treatments: instant hedges in blocks E and F updated to close boarded timber fences; All house types parapet copings updated to PPC Aluminium; Brick pier adjacent to C1, C2, C3, C4 entrance door/garage omitted; Brick Type 5 adjacent to entrance doors updated; All entrance doors updated to be composite front doors with factory painted finish; Brick parapets to rear of E type Houses to crescent updated to exposed gutter detail; Brick parapet to rear of C2 (plots 51-53, 96-99) updated to exposed gutter detail

n.b plot 75 + 105 brick parapet retained; House Type Es front gardens and steps, and garage roof terrace surface updated; House type G refuse and cycle store location updated, and garden wall profile stepped to accommodate ground levels.

115 Northville Road Erection of single storey rear extension to provide additional living accommodation.

Landing Lights - East Works Gloucester Road North Discharge of condition 10 (Drainage) attached to planning permission P19/09662/O. Hybrid application, comprising of Full planning permission for the development of an automotive dealership to include car showroom, vehicle display, parking, workshop, MOT testing and vehicle valeting facilities and associated access, parking, infrastructure and landscaping (Sui Generis).

Outline planning permission for the development of 3no. mixed use units (ClassB1) offices, (Class B2) General Industry (Class B8) storage and distribution and (Class A3) restaurants/cafes, (Class A5) hot food takeaway with access to be determined (all other matters reserved).

Bawa Healthcare and Leisure 589 Southmead Road Erection of entrance lobby and

Applications

1 Gayner Road Erection of detached building to form five flats with associated works and access.

38 Gayner Road Erection of two storey side and single storey side and rear extensions to provide additional living accommodation.

586 Filton Avenue Creation of vehicular access and one parking space.

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40 Warren Road Erection of two storey side and single storey rear extensions to provide additional living accommodation. Installation of front porch. (Resubmission P19/13483/F) Approve with Conditions

28 Conygre Grove Non material amendment to planning permission PT18/4797/F to reduce the number of flats from four flats to three flats Objection 82 Station Road Demolition of existing conservatory and erection of a single storey side and rear extension to form additional living accommodation.

Approve with Conditions 33 Ferndale Road Erection of one detached dwelling with associated works.

Approve with Conditions 495 Filton Avenue Change of use from residential dwelling (Class C3) to a house in multiple occupation (HMO) for up to 8 people (Sui Generis) as defined in the Town and Country Planning (use classes) Order 1987 (as amended).

Approve with Conditions 37 Sixth Avenue Erection of one attached dwelling with parking and associated works.

Refusal 11B Ventnor Road Erection of one bungalow with access, parking and associated works.

Approve with Conditions

To read full applications and decisions, visit www.southglos.gov.uk/ environment-and-planning/

n ON THE BEAT With PC Sean White

Vehicle towing Locally we are often called to vehicle obstruction or cars with no insurance being driven.

As demonstrated recently, we do have the power to remove a vehicle for obstruction if it is blocking a drive and preventing vehicles getting onto the highway, but ironically we have no offences if your vehicle is trying to park on a private drive coming from the highway. We can also seize vehicles being driven on a road with no insurance. I know it can be difficult in parts of Filton, but do please park responsibly to avoid losing your vehicle.

To advertise, contact ruth@filtonvoice.co.uk or Richard on 0777 555 0607 or Ruth on 07513 517 593

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February, 2020

n NEWS

Santa's Helper made long journey for the final Christmas party The children of Filton Park Pre-School Playgroup enjoyed their Christmas Party at the end of 2019. This was their last Christmas party as the playgroup is being forced to close at the end of the Summer term in July 2020.

The children also said goodbye to our 'long serving' Santa's Helper Alan Kelly who has visited every Christmas Party for many years to give the children their presents. This year he travelled down from his new home in Sheffield to be with them one last time, staying in a hotel at his own expense. To thank him for all he has done for us, the staff presented him with a hamper full of special goodies they knew he would like.

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The preschool is facing closure at the end of the academic year 2019/20. It is understood the site will be sold

by South Glos for development and the council has said they will be seeking to create preschool places within adjoining Charborough Road Primary, part of the Olympus Trust.

As previously reported, local parents have said the loss of the preschool, one of just two similar in Filton, represented a serious loss of facilities for youngsters.

Last summer, parents, local councillors and activists turned out in force, pictured opposite, to support the preschool, which originally said it would like to rebuild the 50-year-old building on the site.

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February, 2020

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25

n NEWS

Louis heading for top 20 ranking ... while still a junior

A nationally-ranked table tennis player from Filton has had a superb start to 2020.

Louis Price, aged 15, is currently ranked two in the Juniors in the UK even though he’s in his first of three years in that category. His Senior ranking has gone up to 42 in Men’s and following his results over the last few months, he should get very close to being in the top 20, which is a real achievement for a first year junior.

The St Bede’s student, who plays in the National League in France for Caen, started the season with 10 wins out of 10 in the Junior British League which gathers all the best Juniors in the UK. His team, TableTennisDaily, sit top of the division.

In December, Louis played the Cardiff Open and had a stunning weekend, getting into the Semi Finals of the Men’s event losing to the eventual winner Jaiji Wu Zhang.

Jaiji plays in the professional league in France and playing these players can only be good for experience.

In the Under 21s, Louis fought his way to the final losing a narrow match against the number 15 ranked player in the Men’s ranking.

At the Dieppe Open in France, Louis came through several

rounds to reach the quarter finals of the Senior Open, losing to Abdul-Kader Salifou from France – Salifou is a current French international and was ranked 83 in the world last year.

Early January 2020 saw Louis attempt to qualify for this year’s National Championships where 90 players battle it out for 10 places at next month’s showcase event. The top 22 players in the Men’s ranking automatically qualify with 10 to qualify from the event. Louis finished in 3rd position, sealing a brilliant weekend and his ticket to the Senior Nationals.

Louis said: “I’m really pleased with my level and can definitely improve on a number of aspects to my game – my aim is to continue climbing the rankings.

"I also want to thank Smartia and The Build Bristol Group for the support they have given me” Dan Ives, Louis’ coach based in Bristol, said: “It’s been a fantastic start to the season, his play has gone up a few levels and he’s putting in lots of table time as well as additional fitness sessions.

"It’s all looking good for the second half of the season with the Nationals both at Senior and Junior levels as well as the European Championships later in the summer.”

NEED AN ELECTRICIAN? CALL 0117 9145400 Electrical Test & Inspections / PAT testing Full and partial electrical rewires Consumer unit upgrade to 17th edition New or replacement switches / sockets / lights Shower installation Smoke / heat / carbon monoxide detector installation & servicing Garden, garage, shed power / security lighting Electric vehicle charging points Free quotations and advice

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n ADVERTISING FEATURE

www.filtonvoice.co.uk

February, 2020

How older people give more than they take

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ge Proud Bristol is an Catherine Wescott awareness campaign that (65), far left, creator challenges perceptions of of BS3 Helping older people in Bristol and Others and Zehra encourages people to feel proud of Haq (64), CEO of their age and experiences.

Dhek Bhal.

A common misconception . about older people is that they do not contribute to society. However, far from being a ‘burden’ or a ‘drain’ Helping Others and Zehra Haq (64), stop, in a cafe, in a store. ” on society, older people contribute CEO of Dhek Bhal.

Many older people develop more resources than they use.

“The average 65-year-old still close, supportive relationships Research carried out by the Royal has an awful lot to offer in terms with younger generations; from Voluntary Service identified that of wisdom, passion, love, care and, grandparents who look after their nearly half of people aged 55-74 most ofthat all, time. ” says Catherine, grandchildren, to older people volunteer, while figures from thegot something You’ve someone who set up BS3 Helping Others through community else needs.

Office of National Statistics show I have a lot to contribute, allwho this volunteer vast Catherine, Creator of after asking inexperience a neighbourhood groups. Catherine has formed to share. that over 50s make up nearly oneBS3 Helping Others. Age 65.

Zehra, CEO of Dhek Bhal.

Facebook group whether anyone bonds with younger people third of the entire UK workforce. www.agefriendlybristol.org.uk Age 64. needed any help.

Within 24 hours, volunteering as a part of BS3 As a part of the Age Proud www.agefriendlybristol.org.uk she’d received 350 likes and 60 Helping Others.

Bristol campaign, Bristol Ageing comments.

For Zehra, who works full Better has gathered the views of “We must learn to befriend all time as the CEO of Dhek Bhal, a variety of inspirational people those whom we meet in our daily supporting the community is her from across Bristol about their lives and never assume that they lifelong work. Dhek Bhal means ‘to experiences and advice regarding are ‘OK’. You can do this no matter take care of’, and Zehra has been later life. how old or young you are and no either volunteering or working This article features Catherine matter where you are - at the bus in Barton Hill since 1986. Zehra Wescott (65), creator of BS3 STO

has always encouraged the older women she works with to have their say and to inform others. “I tell them, you are very lucky,” says Zehra. “You have a lot of skills and knowledge you can contribute.”

Zehra believes it is important for younger and older people to interact and to recognise the contributions each side can bring to their community. In the past, Dhek Bhal has set up intergenerational activities and events with local schools. “I would like to see older people going into schools more,” says Zehra. “If a school does a cookery class, let older people teach it and show what we can do."

This is the second article in a series of three, inspired by older people based in Bristol. Find out more about the Age Proud Bristol campaign by visiting www. agefriendlybristol.org.uk or search #AgeProudBristol on Twitter and take part in the conversation about ageism in Bristol.

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n BAKING WITH ST PETER'S CHURCH CAFE in recognition of their 10th anniversary

Cupcakes

By Jeanette Bowering

Perfect for any occasion, these vanilla cupcakes are delicious, and can be adapted for any event.

Ingredients:

(makes 12 cupcakes) • 110g butter • 110g caster sugar • 110g self raising flour • 2 eggs • 2-3 drops of vanilla extract For the Buttercream • 150g butter • 250g icing sugar • Vanilla extract • Piping bag and nozzle • Cake decorations

Method:

1 Preheat oven to 170 °c 2. Put the flour, sugar and butter in a bowl and beat until everything is combined.

3. Whisk the egg and vanilla extract into the mixture and continue to mix for a few minutes until smooth.

4. Spoon mixture into cases and bake in the oven for 20-25 minutes until light golden. When baked, transfer to wire rack to cool.

5. Now to the buttercream: Beat the icing sugar and butter together until well mixed then add vanilla extract to taste.

6. Pipe the mixture onto the cupcakes when they are cool and add decorations.

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n UPDATE FROM FILTON MP JACK LOPRESTI

'I'll be fighting for our fair share of investment' 2020 is the year we will finally begin to see movement in Parliament, following three and a half years of paralysis.

By the end of this month we will have been out of the European Union for four weeks, into the transition period, negotiating our future relationship with our partners on the continent, and beginning to strike new relationships with new friends in the rest of the world. This certainty will give us the opportunity to address the nation’s other priorities.

Not only does this allow us to move forward as a parliament to address other areas in need of attention such as policing, health, schools, and housing, but it will also allow us to move on as a nation and come to together to start healing our fabric once Brexit as an issue is resolved.

As the Prime Minister said in his New Year’s message, we

want to be a Government that works for and with everybody, regardless of how they voted in any election or referendum.

We know that nobody loves this country any less for having voted to Remain and we want to work in a spirit of friendship and respect.

To show the strength of our commitment in working for everybody, one of the first things we will be doing this year will

be to give the NHS the biggest cash boost in history, and to set that commitment in stone we will enshrine it in law. NHS spending is due to increase by £34bn, meaning that it will be one third higher at the end of the Parliament than at the beginning.

To further bolster this, Chancellor of the Exchequer Sajid Javid has promised a ‘decade of renewal’ in his March Budget. Part of this promised shakeup will involve reorganising how funds are allocated to make Government spending fairer, as the present system heavily favours London and the South East. This will allow more investment toutside of London and the South East and I look forward to acting as your voice in Westminster fighting for a fair share.

Locally, I have a number of priorities I will be working on. I plan to keep pressing for

fairer funding for our schools, to ensure every child in South Gloucestershire gets the quality education they are entitled to. I will work to support our important local industries by campaigning for more defence and engineering investment, promoting apprenticeships, and advocating for a new free port. I will further be working with the Home Secretary to ensure we get additional police funding on top of the 137 additional officers Avon and Somerset will be getting and supporting her call for more officers to be equipped with Tasers to ensure both their safety and that of the public in difficult situations.

This year will be remembered as a watershed moment when we finally put Brexit behind us, take bold and radical steps to unleash Britain’s potential as a global power, and usher in a new era of prosperity for our country.

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29

n NEWS

South Glos steps away from huge housing plan

by Adam Postans BBC LDRS reporter for Filtonvoice South Gloucestershire Council is set to follow North Somerset in abandoning a blueprint for 105,000 homes across the West of England and going it alone.

Council leader Toby Savage revealed at a cabinet meeting that the authority was set to formally withdraw from the Joint Spatial Plan (JSP) at full council next month.

The plan identified a need for around 40,000 extra homes in addition to around 60,000 already allocated such as the Brabazon development at Filton Airfield.

It follows years of costly cross-border collaboration between the four neighbouring unitary authorities, including Bristol city and Bath & North East Somerset councils, that ended with the JSP in tatters

Planning inspectors Malcolm Rivett and Steven Lee, who scrutinised the West of England joint spatial plan when planning inspectors rejected it last summer.

The government officials admonished the four organisations for trying to make the evidence fit into their housing, jobs and infrastructure strategy for the next two decades, rather than being led by it, and ordered them to go back to the drawing board.

In January, North Somerset Council became the first to

officially pull the plug on the JSP and instead push ahead with its own Local Plan.

Conservative Cllr Savage told South Gloucestershire cabinet members: “We will be considering a similar report to North Somerset at the February full council meeting and, it would seem, make that formal decision to withdraw from the JSP process. We will need to continue working jointly with our neighbouring authorities, not least because of the legal duty to cooperate but also, in the case of Bristol and B&NES, we work together through the West of England Combined Authority (Weca).

“In terms of the split between what will sit in any new strategic level document and what will sit within our own Local Plan, that is still to be discussed and decided.

“The offer continues to be open through the policy advisory

group (PAG) process to ensure opposition members have the opportunity to participate.”

At October’s full council meeting, opposition Labour group leader Cllr Pat Rooney said her party would no longer take part in cross-party talks through the policy advisory group because “all trust has broken down” with the Tory administration as a result of previous decisions arising from PAG discussions.

She said Labour was “not abdicating our responsibilities” and would hold separate meetings with top council officers, a decision Cllr Savage called “very disappointing”.

Lib Dem group leader Cllr Claire Young said: “In terms of the PAG, we have not seen proposed terms of reference about these arrangements.”

Cllr Savage said: “I am happy to circulate something in writing.”

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n TAKE A BREAK

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PUZZLES FOR YOUNG AND OLD

Txtpert

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February, 2020

www.filtonvoice.co.uk

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www.filton-central.co.uk

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31

n NEWS

Southmead on high alert as A&E targets not met

by Adam Postans BBC LDRS reporter for Filtonvoice Hospitals in the Bristol area including Southmead are on the highest state of alert and failing targets to see emergency patients within four hours as winter pressures mount, health chiefs have revealed.

The huge spike in demand at A&Es is having a knock-on effect for people needing planned treatment, with 19 residents waiting more than 52 weeks, according to the latest figures.

An average of 54 people a day are visiting A&E in the region, a rise of 6.3 per cent on last year.

North Bristol Trust, which runs Southmead, pictured, saw 80 per cent of patients within four hours. At Bristol Royal Infirmary the figure was 72 per cent, compared with 90.3 per cent at the children’s hospital, with both sites run by University Hospitals Bristol Trust.

Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire (BNSSG) clinical commissioning group chief executive Julia Ross said patient safety was not at risk despite the situation.

She said that unlike last year, hospital trusts struggled to discharge patients before Christmas to free up beds.

She told a CCG governing body meeting: “Over Christmas and new year, the urgent care system across BNSSG was enormously pressured.

“We are not alone. This is the case across the country. I’m really pleased to say that as a system we’ve managed it better than we have ever done before, although that is not to say there is not much more to do. The system remains very significantly challenged.

“Last year we managed to discharge quite a lot of patients before Christmas so we had spare bed capacity over Christmas and new year.

“That was not the case this year and that exacerbated the consistent challenge we have that demand is growing at a really significant rate for A&E.” Ms Ross said the hospitals, including the BRI, Southmead and Weston General Hospital,

were in “system Opel four”, which means they are under extreme pressure and on the highest state of alert.

“While it’s terribly challenging and people are experiencing things we would not choose for them to be experiencing, we are as confident as we can be in the safety in the system so people are not experiencing harm,” she said.

CCG commissioning deputy director Claire Thompson told the meeting on Tuesday, January 7: “While our ability to see patients within four hours has been compromised, we are outperforming the national average.”

A report to the governing body showed the situation was worsening overall even before the festive period.

The CCG is urging patients to choose the right NHS service and use A&E only for serious or lifethreatening conditions to help alleviate rising demand.

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n UPDATE FROM WEST OF ENGLAND MAYOR TIM BOWLES

More powers for our region is the plan for 2020

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s this new decade begins, we are at a unique moment in our region’s history. I am hopeful that, with the new Government recently elected, more attention will be given to the brilliant towns and cities outside of London, meaning that the West of England Combined Authority will soon receive new powers and more funding. Through this next stage of devolution, the Combined Authority will be further empowered to deliver on our regional priorities.

One of my key priorities remains investing in our public transport infrastructure so that people can move easier around the region, connecting them to both jobs and leisure. I remain committed to delivering our MetroWest suburban rail plans including new stations such as in Henbury, Ashley Down and

Quarry Court

North Filton. We are in the process of getting the necessary approvals and I am excited to see construction beginning as soon as we receive the green light. This sort of ambitious new transport connection will be so vital for the West of England as we continue to ensure sustainable growth,

addressing the important issues of both congestion and climate change.

I am very proud of the support the Combined Authority has given to our next generation of employees and entrepreneurs.

A few months ago, we agreed the funding to roll out our Careers Hub to every school in the region, linking them with Enterprise Advisors who are professionals from local businesses and industry.

This decade’s students will be the next decades employees, so I want to ensure that every young person has better opportunities to gain meaningful work experience and careers advice to help them make informed choices and maximise their confidence when beginning their careers. Careers Hub, along with initiative such as Future Bright, which supports people to secure better paid jobs, will

Adelaide Place, Fishponds, Bristol BS16 2FX

ultimately ensure that all our residents are able to benefit from the continued growth and development we are seeing in the West of England.

There is currently both a national and political will amongst politicians, businesses and other institutions to work together on a regional level to deliver on peoples’ priorities such as transport infrastructure, housing and ensuring residents have the right skills for the future. I have been working tirelessly to ensure that the Combined Authority is getting on with its job and delivering for our region. We have had many great successes as we address the challenges and opportunities we share, and I am proud that we will be able to build upon this work and deliver a real impact for our region and residents throughout the 2020s and beyond.

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n NEWS

Woodland branches renew their partnership Two local woodlands, Sims Hill Woodland and Splatts Abbey Wood, have renewed their partnership and are looking forward to working together again.

The Splatts Abbey Wood Conservation Group, between Cheswick and the MoD at Abbeywood, has been going for many years and is responsible for the historic woodland sited.

It can trace the wood's roots back centuries. Its committee currently has members of the public and representatives from other bodies on it.

The Sims’ Hill Community Woodland Committee manages Sims’ Hill Community Woodland and seeks to provide environmental and social benefits to local residents, businesses and visitors.

The Sims' Hill Woodland runs around the edge of the Bristol Business Park, (which

UWE student volunteers at Splatts

sits opposite the UWE). Splatts Abbey Wood and Sims Hill Wood also work with others, including South Gloucestershire Council and with UWE Student volunteers.

David Bell, Chairman of the Splatts Abbey Wood

Conservation Group said: "The two woodlands and other partners have worked very well together to help maintain them, and to increase access for the public. We are delighted with our partnership working which benefits everybody."

Dr Frank Ashwood, Chair of Sims' Hill Community Woodland Management Committee, said: “The Sims' Hill Community Woodland Management Committee are delighted to be back in touch with Splatts Abbey Wood Conservation Group. We look forward to working closely together and with other partners, to manage the woodlands for all visitors to enjoy.”

Several Splatts committee members have won the prestigious South Gloucestershire Council Chair's Awards for their volunteering Fred Hillberg, Andy Ward, UWE Greenspace (student volunteers) and David Bell.

The Splatts Abbey Wood group can be contacted at its email: splattsabw@gmail.com The Sims' Hill Woodland Community Woodland can be contacted at simshillcw@gmail. com

FREE Events at Filton Library in February Every week:

Filton Friends Coffee Morning

This month:

Mondays 10.30 – 11.30am Come along for a cuppa & make some new friends.

Happy Nappies

Memory Café

Monday 10th 11am - 12.30pm Re-usable nappy scheme drop-in.

Thursday 27th 10.30am – 12.00 noon Worried about your memory? Or care for someone with Dementia?

Come along to a friendly group hosted by the Alzheimer’s Society.

Lego Club

Digilocal Coding Club Mondays 6.00 – 7.00pm Coding club for primary aged children – booking required.

For information & to book a place email digilocal@hbb.org.uk

Story & Rhyme Time Wednesdays 10.30 – 11am Rhymes & stories for pre-school children with bubbles and musical instruments!

Saturday 1st 11am – 12 noon FREE drop in Stories & theme based building fun! For children aged 4 -11years. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Volunteer Drop-In Thursday 6th 10am – 12 noon Interested in volunteering? We can help you find your ideal role!

Come and meet your local Volunteer Advisor for an informal chat.

Water World children’s craft activity Thursday 20th 2pm – 3pm Travel beneath the waves in your yellow submarine and see mermaids and jellyfish along the way. Themed crafts for children aged 4-11 years. All children must be accompanied by an adult.

Colouring & Board Games for Adults

Wednesdays 2 – 4pm Relax with colouring & games in this social group.

Would you like to use the library 7 days a week at times when it is unstaffed?

You can by registering for Open Access* Find out more and book your one-off Open Access induction at www.southglos.gov.uk/openaccess Or ask us during Staffed Hours on Mon/Weds/Thurs 10-5.30 & Sat 9.30-1.00pm.

All *T&Cs apply, min. age 16 yrs.

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February, 2020

n THE DRAGONFLY JAR ... I see you as you are

n NEWS

Jeanne Fairs: Mid-life musings

MP to lead new defence group

N

ew Year throws me off my sofa to honour the ventures that my autumn self believed would be ‘character building’ after a season of slothfulness. I find myself at a yoga workshop and, as a part-time yoga teacher, I look forward to stretching out.

I expect a studio full of fellow enthusiasts; I do not expect the greatest challenge to come in the first ten minutes.

Our teacher explains that a South African popular Zulu greeting is ‘Sawubona’ – ‘I see you as you are.’ I find it a challenge to greet a stranger, hold their gaze and exchange pleasantries – a firm handshake is a bonus, so imagine how I feel then when we are asked to face a ‘random’ partner and look into their eyes …for two minutes.

Awkward.

‘Sawubona’ symbolises the importance of directing our attention to another person. The exercise is to remind us to be aware of other people’s needs and how we can integrate rather than judge by trusting first impressions – often formed in the first 3 seconds of meeting someone. The Zulu people promote the need to see each other slowly and as they are; I think they are on to something.

The two minutes go surprisingly quickly and it all feels very grown up. Afterwards my partner and I share all sorts of insights about the feelings that have arisen during this exercise – feelings both for each other and about ourselves.

Back on my sofa after the workshop (everyone needs a comfort zone to retreat to) my research shows an appropriate response to ‘Sawubona’ is ‘Shikoba’ - ‘I am relieved to know that I exist for you’. My 2020 self resolves to interact with and really get to know the people in my life… I can hear my loved ones running to the door. www.thedragonfyjar.com

Jack Lopresti, MP for Filton and Bradley Stoke has established and will chair an All Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) for Sovereign Defence Manufacturing Capability.

Speaking after the inaugural meeting of the Group, Mr Lopresti said: “The amount invested in maintaining a strong defence capability reflects the importance that the Government attaches to it.”

“Major employers within this industry have a significant presence in the area I represent, including Airbus, Rolls-Royce, GKN, BAE Systems, MBDA and Boeing, among others.”

The APPG for Sovereign Defence Manufacturing Capability will undertake an enquiry into the way in which the MOD buys equipment and supplies. It will aim to report before the summer recess.

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l Student discount l OAP rate 824 Filton Avenue Filton, Bristol BS34 7AP 0117 979 2798 To advertise, contact ruth@filtonvoice.co.uk or Richard on 0777 555 0607 or Ruth on 07513 517 593

that Slimming World feeling!

MONDAY

Southmead Community Centre, Greystoke Avene, BS10 6BQ

9.30 a.m. & 11.30 a.m, 5.30 p.m. & 7.30 p.m.

Contact: Nicola - 07873 818193

The Doug Daniels Pavilion, Filton Leisure Centre, Elm Park, BS34 7PS 6.00 p.m.

Contact: Carolyn - 07715 942226

TUESDAY

Southmead Community Centre, Greystoke Ave, BS10 6BQ 5.30 p.m & 7.30 p.m.

Contact: Nicola - 07873 818193

WEDNESDAY

Horfield Leisure Centre, Dorian Road, BS7 0XW 3.30 p.m, 5.30 p.m & 7.30 p.m.

Contact: Carolyn - 07715 942226

Little Stoke Community Hall, Little Stoke Lane, BS34 6HR 5.00 p.m. & 7.00 p.m.

Contact: Sharron - 07947 064711

THURSDAY

Little Stoke Community Hall, Little Stoke Lane, BS34 6HR 9.30 a.m & 11.30 a.m.

Contact: Sharron - 07947 064711

Bishopston B & A Church, 160 Gloucester Road, BS7 8NT 9.00 a.m & 11.00 a.m.

5.30 p.m. & 7.30 p.m.

Contact: Sue - 07702 578298

The Hub, Gainsborough Square, Lockleaze, BS7 9FB 5.30 p.m Contact: Audrey - 07502 341195

slimmingworld.co.uk 0344 897 8000

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February, 2020

n WHAT'S ON Mondays

Dinky Dolphins, baby and pre-school swimming session, games music and play, 9-10.30. These sessions are first come, first served. £5 for 1 adult and up to two children, Filton Sports and Leisure Centre St. Peter’s Ladies Group (formerly Wives Group) “We are a group of ladies, who meet in St. Peter’s Church Hall at 7.30 pm on the second and fourth Mondays of each month, except August for a talk or social gathering. Our programme can be seen on the church website at www.stpeterschurchfilton. com. New members very welcome, just come along on the night or ring Jane on 0117 9699987 or Janet on 0117 9696958.

Bristol & Avon Family History Society. We meet on the 2nd Monday of the month, except JUNE which is the 3rd Monday. We do not meet in JULY or AUGUST. VENUE BAWA Southmead Road FILTON at 7.30pm. There is a varied programme of family history related topics and speakers, for beginners and more experienced researchers. Help, books and more always available at each meeting. Further information from secretary@bafhs.org.uk Ukulele Filton continues to meet at 7.00 - 8.30 pm every Monday at Filton Sports and Leisure Centre, (Bank Holidays excepted,) and we would be delighted to welcome new members. No previous experience necessary; we always have spare ukuleles and songbooks to get you started. Contact Sue on 0117 979 0381; e mail: itchyfeet49@hotmail.co.uk St. Andrew's Methodist Church Lunch Club: Hot lunches served - 12.00 for 12.15 p.m. Special dietary needs catered for. £3.50 for 2 courses with tea/coffee.

If interested - please ring 0117 987 2143; you do not need to be a member of St. Andrew's Methodist Church to join.

Messy Hands: A sensory messy playgroup at St Andrew's Church Hall, 10-1130am, £3. More details contact emma@facefilton.org.uk.

Ukulele Filton: We are a friendly and enthusiastic group who meet every Monday evening at Filton Sports and Leisure Centre, from 7.00 to 8.30 pm.

Contact Sue on 01179790381; email itchyfeet49@hotmail.co.uk, or look up “Ukulele Filton” on Facebook.

Brabazon Belles: Community group for women. Make new friends, try different things, meet like-minded women. St Peter's Church Hall, first Monday of the month, 7.30pm-9pm.

Tuesdays Aqua fit Tuesdays, 9.15-10am, cost £5 a session, class suitable for non swimmers, participants must be 16 yrs and over, Filton Sports and Leisure Keep fit with dance moves – at Horfield Baptist Church, BS7 8NY, Tuesday mornings, from 10:15 – 11:15 am; and Filton Community Centre, Elm Park, BS34 7PS, Tuesday afternoons, from 2pm – 3pm. Suitable for all abilities, come and improve your mobility and general wellbeing, keeping fit to music at this very friendly class. Includes some seated body conditioning exercises. Pay as you go at £4 per session. Wear comfortable clothing and appropriate footwear. For further information contact Eileen Scott, on 07969929733, or email, scottyartois@hotmail.com

Pilates

Filton Community Centre, Elm Park Tuesdays Mixed ability, 7.30-8.30pm Wednesdays Intermediate, 9.30-10.30am with Nicola Fry

07500 962 821

truebalancepilatesbristol@gmail.com truebalancepilates.co.uk

Keep Fit Association classes, all welcome, Filton Community Centre 2-3pm. Keep fit with dance moves Improve your mobility and general wellbeing, have fun, challenge yourself and feel more confident, keeping fit to music. The class also includes some body conditioning. Working at your own pace, the class is suitable for everyone. Come along and make new friends at this very social and friendly class. Pay as you go at £4 per session. Wear comfortable clothing and appropriate footwear. For further information contact Eileen Scott, (qualified instructor), on 07969929733, and visit the website http://www. keepfit.org.uk for more info about our organisation.

Westerly Showband welcomes able adult wind band musicians to its weekly rehearsals every Tuesday at Horfield CEVC Primary School Bishop Manor Rd, Bristol BS10 5BD from 7.30 to 9.30 pm. Under its experienced conductor Chris Harris players will be receive the coaching and support needed to achieve a satisfying performance. Band practices take place in a friendly and encouraging atmosphere and include nice biscuits. The repertoire includes a wide variety of genres especially chosen to please both band members and audiences alike. Prospective members can look at the website at www. westerlyshowband .com or ring 0117 9561950 for more information. Visitors to rehearsals are always welcome. See also Friday for training band.

Wednesdays Pre-School story and Rhyme time 10.30-11am, Filton Library, Shield Centre Dinky Dolphins, baby and pre-school swimming session, games music and play,10.30-11.30am. These sessions are first come, first served. £5 for 1 adult and up to two children, Filton Sports and Leisure Centre Filton Garden Club, St Teresa’s Social Club, 7.30pm. 1st Wednesday of every month, 0117 975 9126. Not January.

St. Andrew's Methodist Church Lunch Club: Hot lunches served - 12.00 for 12.15 p.m. Special dietary needs catered for. £3.50 for 2 courses with tea/coffee.

If interested - please ring 0117 987 2143; you do not need to be a member of St. Andrew's Methodist Church to join.

Filtones Choir. Don’t like going out in the evening? At a loose end on a Wednesday afternoon? Ever thought of joining a choir? Why not come along on and exercise your lungs and challenge your grey cells with our friendly group of people who are The Filtones. We are actively seeking to recruit altos, tenors (gents or ladies) and basses to join our happy band. We sing four part harmony

but ability to read music, although useful, is not essential as we supply CDs and MP3 files as teaching aids. We give afternoon concerts to elderly people’s clubs and societies around Bristol and two evening concerts in June and December from which we donate much of our profit to charities. We are a very caring and sociable group of people who sing together with the aim of giving as good a performance as we can, but mainly to enjoy ourselves. For more information please ring Jilly on 0117 9232281 or Shirley on 0117 9654348 or e mail dorothy.bryant@btinternet.com. or look at our web site on www.thefiltones. weebly.com. Alternatively, just call in at Eden Grove Methodist Church Horfield BS7 0PQ between 1.30 and 3.45 pm on a Wednesday afternoon (not during August) for a listen and a chat.

Men in Sheds in Filton is extending its hours to meet demand. The DIY group, which aims to tackle loneliness and isolation among men aged over 50, operates from the Scout hut in Nuffield Grove, providing a space to socialise, build, share skills and drink tea. Men in Sheds Filton is part of a national movement, initiated by Age Concern Cheshire in 2009 and sustained by the UK Men’s Sheds Association. There are now over 200 “sheds” across the country, with many more being developed. The group runs every Wednesday, from 9.30am-12.30pm.

Advertise your event in this space to get more people taking part .... and it's probably cheaper than you think.

Call 0777 555 0607 for more information Horfield Townswomens Guild are a really friendly Guild that meet on the second Wednesday of every month at UHCT Eden Grove Church, Eden Grove, Horfield BS7 0PQ at 2.30 pm. Ladies are welcome to just turn up or ring Edna on 0117 949 5413 for a chat about the Guild.

Sound of Song ( a Choir for Female Voices) meet in Horfield URC, Church Hall, Muller Road on Wednesdays 7.30 - 9.30pm. Repertoire covers classical, choral, jazz, popular, folk, and show songs. No auditions necessary." www.soundsofsongchoir.com Northavon Singers Northavon Singers are looking for new members in our four-part all age choir. We sing in Filton and South Gloucestershire at many local venues,supporting local causes and events with two public concerts each year. We do not need you to have a formal audition but will help you to find your voice group. We sing a wide variety of music from light Classics to country, folk, modern, musicals and more. We are a friendly group and would be glad to help you settle in ! Come to rehearsals at St.Peter’s church hall Filton, each Wednesday at 7.30 pm (Opp.Airbus) or phone Margaret 0117 9699206 or visit

website publicity@northavonsingers. org.uk On the third Wednesday of each month the Avon branch of the International Plastic Modellers Society (IPMS UK) meet at the Avon Suite BAWA Club. 7.45late. Over 18 please unless accompanied by an adult. All types of plastic modelling and one of the largest groups in the UK. For further information check out website www.ipmsavon.org.uk Filton Historical Group. meet at Pavilion, Elm Park, Filton. 7.30pm last Wed.of months. Sept. to April (not December) Interesting speakers. For further details: 0117 9695198.

Thursdays Bristol Male Voice Choir...If you are a follower of male voice choir music, or would like to sing in a male voice choir, then 2018 is a great year to pursue your interests, by tracking the concerts that Bristol Male Voice Choir will be performing in the course of 2018. Follow us on our website bristolmvc.org.uk.

We warmly welcome new members.

Come and join us as we rehearse every Thursday at SGSC at the end of Filton Avenue where it joins the A38. Find our website or ring 0117 329 3192 for more information. You will receive a very warm welcome..

Bristol Sugarcraft Guild meet every third Thursday in the month except August. We welcome all -from beginners to the more competent crafter Meetings start at 7.30-9.30 at St. Andrews church.

For more information ring Bristol 9568737 or 9653568 Dinky Dolphins, baby and pre-school swimming session, games music and play,9-10am. These sessions are first come, first served. £5 for 1 adults and up to two children, Filton Sports and Leisure Centre, term time only, term time only.

Filton Ladies, We are Filton ladies group, who meet every Thursday, 2pm to 4pm at St Andrew's Church, for a chat and catch up with friends old and new, over a nice cup of tea or coffee and biscuits and would love new ladies to join us. Plus, every 3 rd Thursday we have very interesting speakers when we open up our meeting to nonmembers including men. Why not pop along and meet us, we are a very friendly club. We also do armchair exercises, hold raffles and table top sales. We also arrange various coach trips. Contact Margaret on 01179041844 or Jenny on 01179312822.

Or just come along any Thursday to meet us.

Silver surfers: FACE, Elm Park, BS34 7PS, 10.30am-12.30 Drop-in for ‘silver-haired’ folk (over 50yrs) to get help with accessing computers, the internet, mobile phone technology, digital cameras, and much more!

Run by a dedicated team of friendly volunteers, this supportive group is just as much a social session as it is about learning! Come and join us! Come along anytime, just £2.50 per session with free refreshments. Does not run during August.

Should you wish to take Flower Arranging lessons, there is a small, friendly group which meets at Filton Community Centre (formerly Filton Folk Centre) on Thursday evenings at 7-9pm from mid September. Catering for beginners and improvers we cover all aspects of flower arranging from traditional to contemporary including Church flowers and flowers for special occasions. More details from 01454 323610 or 01454 412087.

To advertise, contact ruth@filtonvoice.co.uk or Richard on 0777 555 0607 or Ruth on 07513 517 593

February, 2020

E: richard@filtonvoice.co.uk

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n WHAT'S ON The Avon & Bristol Woodturners meet every third Thursday at St Teresa’s Church Hall from 7pm to approximately 10pm. For details, www.avon-andbristol-woodturners.org.uk/fortnightly, St Peter’s MU (Mothers Union) 2nd Thursday of each month (except August), 2pm in the church hall. All ladies and Gentlemen invited.Look on St Peter’s Church web site or call 0117 9491833 or just turn up.

Stop Smoking Sessions, 3-4pm.

Appointments to be booked in advance.

01454 865502. smokefree@southglos. gov.uk Diddi dance, Preschool dance class for girls and boys ages 18 months to school!

Thursdays 9:45-10:30am, St. Teresas Church Hall. Contact Emily for your free trial.07850983821. emily.norman@ diddidance.com Avon Harmony are a Ladies Barbershop Chorus. We welcome visitors for a no obligation taster session. We rehearse at The Dance Studio, Fairfield High School, Allfoxton Road, Bristol BS7 9NL. Every Thursday evening 7.30pm - 9.45pm. Tel: Mary 07954170532

Fridays Toddler and Baby Group, meets term time only at St Andrew’s Methodist Church from 10 to 12 noon. A warm welcome to all toddlers, babies and carers.

Aqua fit, 9.30 – 10.15am, cost £5 a session, class suitable for non swimmers, participants must be 16 yrs and over, Filton Sports and Leisure St Andrew's Methodist Wesley Guild meets in the Church lounge every other Friday evening at 7.30 p.m commencing September 14th. We are a small, friendly group with a wide variety of speakers and members evenings and would welcome your company. There is no membership fee, just a small subscription on the evening which includes light refreshments.

Ring 0117 9698523 for further details.

Concord Band is a Wind Band. We meet

every Friday from 7.30pm – 9.30pm at St Andrews Methodist Church Hall, Elm Park Road, Filton BS34 7PS. Our Conductor Keith Williams is a well know Teacher and Performer in Bristol. We play a wide range of music, so if you would like to get back to playing again, look no further. Contact Jayne 07880724948 or email: jaynerentonharper@gmail.com or come along with you instrument and have a play. Visitors to rehearsals are always welcome.

Over 30’s Dance Party Dancing Thru’ The Decades Club Classics * Motown * Soul

BAWA Club,

Filton First Friday Monthly

A Friendly Popular Night Out 8:45-1 (last adm 11) Gents Collar Shirts Req. No tee shirts/Trainers

www.mingles.co.uk

fb: luv2mingle

Saturdays Councillors’ Surgery, Filton Library.

St Teresa’s Catholic Church, Vigil Mass, 6pm

Sundays St Peter’s Church, 8.00am Holy Eucharist; 10.00am Parish Eucharist with crèche and Sunday Club; Noon, Baptism (by appointment); 6.00pm Evening Worship (Choral Evensong on the 1st Sunday of each month)’.

St Teresa’s Catholic Church, Morning Mass, 10.30am. Other masses visit www. stteresasfilton.org.uk St Andrew’s Church, Filton, 10.30am, Morning Worship; 6pm, Evening Worship

Bethany Church Filton, Meadowsweet Ave, Conygre 1st & 3rd Sunday 3pm; 2nd & 4th Sunday 11am followed by lunch.

Pyramid Youth Club Monday 6.30-8 p.m. Club aged 9+ Tuesday 6.30-7.40 Judo aged 6+ (no adult class) Thursday 6.30-7.45 Club aged 6-8 Friday 6.30-8 p.m. Club aged 9+ New members are welcome. Please ring 9691315 if you want more information.

There are vacancies in all age groups.

Based at 470 Filton Avenue, contact Margaret 0117 9691315

F.A.C.E.

Wednesdays: Outbreak youth club for Year 8+, 5.30-8.30pm, £2 entry. Contact dawn@facefilton.org.uk Thursdays: Bright Sparks youth club for 9-17yrs with learning or social disabilities 5.30-7pm, £2 entry Illuminators social club for adults with learning or social disabilities 7.309.30pm, £2 entry. Contact emma@ facefilton.org.uk. No 1-2-1 or personal care provided – please bring support worker / carer if needed.

Fridays: Street dance workshop for under 12yrs, 3.45-4.40pm, £4 RISE youth club for Years 3, 4 & 5, 5-6pm, £2 entry SHINE youth club for Years 6, 7 & 8, 6.308.30pm, £2 entry Contact dawn@facefilton.org.uk New members always welcome to all groups. Registration form can be completed online, see www.facefilton. org.uk ‘registration form’ page.

FACE, Youth Centre, Elm Park, Filton, BS34 7PS, phone 0117 9691938, email info@facefilton.org.uk. Follow us on Facebook @FACE-Filton

SHE7, Braemar Crescent, Filton Monday Phoenix Spiritual Centre 1pm-4pm

Saturday, February 22

Pancake Party at St Peter's Church Hall, Filton,10am - 12pm. Come and enjoy a pancake, tea or coffee and a chat all for £2.00

Ladies' group raises £1,310 St. Peter’s Ladies' Group, Filton, Church have been busy over the past year raising funds for their nominated charity "Headway ".

The group presented a cheque in January, for £1310, to Deborah Saw (2nd from left) a representative from Headway Headway is a local charity, first set up over 40 years ago which helps people with brain injuries to live their lives as independently as possible. They individually tailor programmes that are designed to maximise quality of life, independence and self esteem. Their work not only helps the patients, but also supports and gives respite care to their families.

They are based at Frenchay and cover Bristo as well as South Gloucestershire and other areas locally. Deborah was delighted with the money St. Peter’s Ladies had given them, and said it will help to buy tools for their new potting shed as well as plants and bulbs to improve their environment.

For more information please see: headwaybristol.org.uk

Tuesday Bingo 7.30pm – 9.15pm Wednesday Over 50's 2 course lunch £3.50 12.15pm, lunch served at 12.30pm.

Thursday Over 50's 2 course lunch £3.50 12.15pm, lunch served at 12.30pm.

Friday North Bristol Amateur Radio Club, Open to Public, 7pm - 10pm Saturday Bingo, 7.00pm – 9.pm Sunday Phoenix Spiritual Centre 6pm-9pm

1st Filton Scouts, Cubs & Beavers Beavers age 6-8, Wed 5:45 – 6:45pm Cubs age 8-10, Mon 6:30 – 8pm Scouts age 10-14, Tues 6:45 – 8:45pm The group is based in Scout HQ, Nutfield Grove, Filton, BS34 7LH. All sections are open to boys and girls. Contact joining@1stfiltonscouts.co.uk or phone John Cahill 0798 605 3005

Rainbows, Brownies and Guides Tuesdays Rainbows - ages 5-7 years Brownies - ages 7 - 10 years Guides - ages 10 - 14 years Rangers - ages 14 + Wednesdays Brownies - ages 7 - 10 years Thursdays Rainbows - ages 5 - 7 years Contact : concordedivision@ girlguidingbsg.org.uk or register at Girlguiding UK website.

Filton Community Garden meetings Every second Saturday of the month at 10am-12noon in the Town Clerk's Meeting Room at 10am.

Weekly Services Sundays 8am Said Eucharist 10am Parish Eucharist 6pm Evening Worship* *1st Sunday Evensong, 2nd Youth of God, 3rd Benediction/Healing/Sung Compline, Last Sunday Taize

Serving God by serving you, your family & the community

Look out for seasonal changes in Advent & Lent www.stpeterschurchÞlton.com

The Revd Lizzie Gregory (Rector) Tel: 01179 312 808

Midweek Tuesday 6pm Prayerful Communion Wednesday 10am Said Eucharist Daily OfÞces (20mins) Tuesday - Thursday 8.30am / 5.30pm

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

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February, 2020

n PROPERTY OF THE MONTH WITH OCEAN 29 Branksome Drive, Filton Guide price £300,000 Superlatives fall short when describing the finish of this stand out property, enjoying a favoured position within convenient distance of local schools, shops, road and public transport links.

This simply stunning three bedroom extended end of terrace home includes a contemporary high spec open plan kitchen/diner with integral appliances to the rear of the property and a large bay

window lounge to the front.

Upstairs can be found three well-proportioned bedrooms and a beautiful family bathroom. Benefits include a combination boiler, double glazing, garage/workshop and off street parking.

The property is offered for sale with no onward chain, with an early viewing highly recommended.

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AERIAL SERVICES

CLEANING SERVICES

H&P Aerials Digital, Freeview and Freesat Specialists

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For a free quote

CALL TODAY FOR A FREE QUOTATION

Tel: 0117 908 7232 or Mobile: 07815 029775 BOILER REPAIR, SERVICING & INSTALLATION

ATTIC SERVICES

Do you need more storage space?

CALL JEFF NOW ON 07856 065 463

FOR YOUR FREE SURVEY & DO YOU NEED MORE STORAGE ?

QUOTE ORSPACE BOOK ONLINE CALL 0800 107 49 93 NOW

YOUR LOFT BOARDING AND ATTIC ACCESS SPECIALISTS www.atticalertservices.co.uk

FOR YOUR FREE SURVEY & QUOTE OR BOOK ONLINE

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ATTIC BOARDING

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INSULATION UPGRADES

DRAINAGE SERVICES

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ELECTRICIAN

To advertise, contact ruth@filtonvoice.co.uk or Richard on 0777 555 0607 or Ruth on 07513 517 593

February, 2020

Trade services

E: richard@filtonvoice.co.uk

GARDENING SERVICES

filtonvoice

PLUMBER

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Leaking taps l Blocked wastes l WC l Ball valves Overflows l Showers l Basins l Taps l Boilers l Heating & Plumbing

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For a FREE quote call 07960 681 921 d.attwellgardenservices@hotmail.co.uk

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Taps, Washers Toilets, Cisterns Leaks, Blockages Tanks, Overflows Lead Pipes, Stopcocks….etc…

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We offer full range of gardening service, build, restore and regular maintenance Hedges, Lawns, Trees for small to large gardens.

We are Horticulture qualified and have plenty of experience and also specialise in wildlife gardens, small gardens, office or indoor plants, and garden tutoring service.

We also cover household DIY/decorating etc

Call Rob 07438495584

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957 5092

DAVE TRIMBY ROOFING SERVICES l All Roofing Work Undertaken l Professional | Friendly | Local l Independent family business l Well established l Roof repairs and renewals l Fascia, soffit and guttering work

0117 904 3656 | 07899 921 338 www.davetrimbyroofing.co.uk RUBBISH CLEARANCE

RUBBISH CLEARED

Registered upper tier waste carrier licence no CBDU225074

We load and clear rubbish/junk from houses Flats, Sheds, Attics, Gardens etc etc No job too small - we even clear single items Cheaper than a skip and we load no VAT Contact Stuart or Sue

Freephone 0800 0234 995 Mobile 07770944727 anytime inc. weekends WIGS

PAINTING AND DECORATING

SJM DECORATING Professional Decorating Local Qualified tradesmen Internal & External Decorating Fast, reliable & friendly service Fully insured

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DID YOU KNOW? We have 17 magazines across the Bristol reaching more than 140,000 households every month

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Call Scott 07515 523 623 0117 3824411

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To advertise in our tradewww.filtonvoice.co.uk services section from as little as £15 per month contact Richard on 07775 550607 or Emma on 07513 0117 9082121.

Ruth on 517 593

Wigs Bristol

LOCATED IN DOWNEND

We have been supplying all types of wigs and hairpieces for fashion and medical purposes for 45 years.

Wigs can be purchased off the peg or made to measure in hair or synthetic fibre.

We stock many styles and makes.

Please book an appointment on:

0117 956 6556 www.wigsbristol.com

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Advertising here is effective - and cheaper than you might think.

Call Ruth on 07513 517 593

**O.A.P. DISCOUNTS** DISCOUNTS** Got a story or **O.A.P. any other inquiry?

Call Richard on 0777 555 0607 or email richard@filtonvoice.co.uk

Childcare from 3 months to 5 years of age at Banana Moon Day Nursery Bristol.

Providing a safe, caring environment for children from three months to five years of age.

•

Open 7.30am - 6.30pm, 51 weeks of the year

•

Home-cooked food

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Secure environment with extensive CCTV and biometric fingerprint entry system

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Outdoor learning environment

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Friendly and highly experienced staff.

To find out more or to book a visit, call 0117 969 1662 or email info@bananamoon-bristol.co.uk

CCTV

Fingerprint biometric access

operates throughout our nurseries

Fully equipped outdoor play area

Home-cooked food

Banana Moon Day Nursery Bristol Pinnacle House, 166a Gloucester Road North, Patchway, Bristol BS34 5BG Call us on 0117 969 1662 or visit bananamoon-bristol.co.uk