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February 2024 Issue 148
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EIGHT PAGE FEATURES SPECIAL, PAGES 19-26 | WHAT'S ON, PAGE 28-29
A new dawn for Filton
Political row over dental services
Political rivals in Filton have clashed over local dental services. Labour's candidate to be MP at the next election, Claire Hazelgrove, said a survey carried out by her party suggested local people are finding it impossible to find an NHS dentist, an issue previously reported in Filtonvoice. She criticised Filton and Bradley Stoke MP Jack Lopresti for voting against a Labour proposal aimed at creating more dental appointments and reform of the current dental contract to ensure everyone can access treatment. Mr Lopresti hit back, saying the Labour plan 'focused on negativity' and that a Conservative plan would expand NHS dentistry training places by 40%. He said the Labour motion was 'meaningless'. Ms Hazelgrove said: "New figures revealed that, of the
Transformed leisure centre gears up for full re-opening in March PICTURE SPECIAL PAGES 2-4
Turn to Page 11
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Contacts Richard Coulter Editor and publisher
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COMPLAINTS If you have a complaint about anything in the Filtonvoice, contact the Editor using the details below. We take complaints seriously and aspire to follow the Code of Conduct of the NUJ (National Union of Journalists), which holds journalists to a high standard of behaviour. Further details of the complaints process can be found on the Voice website www.localvoicenetwork.co.uk, or can be obtained by contacting the publisher, below. EDITOR’S NOTE: Filtonvoice is independent. We cannot take responsibility for content or accuracy of adverts, and it is advertisers’ responsibility to conform to all relevant legislation. We cannot vouch for any services offered although we have used some of the services. Opinions are not necessarily those of the editor. Filtonvoice is distributed each month to all Filton residents. If for some reason you do not get a copy, please get in touch or collect one from Filton Library. Feedback is welcomed, call editor Richard Coulter on 0777 555 0607 or richard@filtonvoice.co.uk.
Venue manager Rob Hutton; Sarah Tovey from reception; and Nicole Whatley from sales
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Transformed leisure centre ready for March full re-opening
Above, the new gym area; below, the swimming pool and the changing 'village'
The new-look Filton Leisure Centre is now partly open and Filtonvoice can share images of the site's transformation from rundown, disjointed buildings to a brand new, modern complex. The rebuild has seen the creation of a new swimming changing 'village', refurbishment to the pool, a modern cafe, a gym with stunning views and meeting rooms and studios, including offices for Filton Town Council. The swimming pool and cafe are now open and the centre, under the direction of manager
Rob Hutton, will open fully on March 31. A spokesperson for operator Active Nation said: "The Filton Leisure Centre, reborn through its recent transformation, stands proudly as a beacon of community wellness and inclusivity in Filton. Its welcoming doors open to a spacious, light-filled environment that warmly invites members of the community to engage in a diverse array of activities. "This modern hub boasts a variety of facilities to cater to
every interest and age group. At its core is a refurbished swimming pool area, rich with the echoes of generations past and present who have learned to swim in its waters. The gym, equipped with the latest fitness technology, including boxing pods and free weights offers stunning views that inspire and motivate. "Additionally, the centre includes a contemporary cafe, versatile meeting rooms, soft play, party room and studios that will host a range of Les Mills
classes and activities, fostering a vibrant community spirit. "The Filton Leisure Centre is more than a mere physical space; it's a dynamic and inclusive community cornerstone. It stands as a testament to Filton Town Council and Active Nation's commitment to wellness, inclusivity and the power of shared experiences in building a strong, interconnected community. Rob Hutton, Venue Manger Turn to Page 4
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From Page 3 of Active Nation Filton, said: "As a charity, we're dedicated to inspiring and facilitating a healthier, more active lifestyle for everyone. "It's more than just a facility; it's a community space where everyone, regardless of age or ability, can come together to achieve their fitness and wellness goals in a supportive and inclusive environment.” The swimming pool, ondemand classes and cafe are now available and the full centre, will open on March 31. Active Nation are offering 50 'founder' memberships at £595 for 15 years, with the price rising to £795 once the initial 50 are bought. For this fee, which represents just £40 per year, members get access to the new gym, studio classes, swimming, and more than 1000 on-demand classes. Membership plans can be found at https://rb.gy/0v81vw or for more information, enquire here https://rb.gy/gz1isg
Food and beverage manager Debbie Holman with duty manager Sapphire Castor-Willox; below, the new cafe area
How the project came about The management of the Leisure Centre was outsourced in 2021 by Filton Town council to Active Nation under an agreement which saw the council borrow the capital investment of c.£4.5 million to remodel the centre. The previous centre struggled with the problems of keeping an ageing building going at a time when cuts were needing to be made to keep the precept down. The new scheme will in due course cover the cost of the loan repayments with a return. The council said they look forward to working in partnership for a successful centre.
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Final farewell for ladies' group It's the end of an era for a local ladies' group, which is discontinuing after more than six decades. The St Peter's Ladies Group started in 1962 when it was known as St Peter’s Young Wives. It was later changed to ‘Wives’ and then more recently became ‘The Ladies Group’. Their aim has always been to encourage
friendship and fellowship and to raise money for charity. Over the years they have raised thousands for worthy causes by holding raffles, bring and buy sales, pancake parties and cream tea events – one of their members even shaved their head. It was a busy final year for the women, who raised £875 for the Avon Centre – an equine and nature-based charity which helps people of all ages with complex special needs through therapeutic riding. The charity, located in the beautiful grounds opposite Blaise Castle Estate, is recognised as a centre of excellence and relies heavily on volunteers. Riding or even just close contact with horses can greatly improve individuals’ lives, both physically and mentally. The ladies were delighted to welcome Gill Edwards, a Riding
Left: Gill from RDA being presented with a cheque for the Avon Centre. Above: Women from the St Peter's Ladies Group for the Disabled Association (RDA) coach from the centre to their annual carol service. After the service they presented Gill with the cheque for £875. Keeping horses is very expensive and Gill was truly grateful for the group's donation. It was an emotional final
meeting for the ladies, and even though it is the end of the group, the members intend to keep in touch with one another. They will continue to meet once a month, in St Peter’s Church Coffee Shop (open Monday – Friday, 10am – 1pm) to continue their friendship and enjoy coffee and cake.
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Bowls club facing £18,000+ bill or likely closure A bowling club in Horfield is facing closure - just two years before its 100th anniversary. Ardagh Bowls Club has operated at its green on Horfield Common since 1926 but a change in management of the site means they face an £18,000+ bill or likely closure. With just 40 members, and numbers having declined since the uncertainty over its future began, the club say they cannot afford to pay the higher fees. The site, with a cafe, tennis courts, gardens and meeting rooms, was handed to the Ardagh Community Trust by Bristol City Council in 2016 after the council decided it would no longer subsidise leisure activities in parks. ACT was awarded the licence for the bowling club last year as it was not part of the original lease. The trust says the bowling club decided not to be part of the original project and since then
ACT has tried to secure funding to pay for vital work which would enable the facility to be used safely. ACT is now asking the bowls club for an annual £12,000 fee to maintain the green and a further £6,000 for remedial work on the site as well as other costs. The bowls club says the green
maintenance fee is too high and the work could be done for around £6,000. Bowls club spokesman Martin Garrett said: "We believe we are being eased out. With 40 members, we simply cannot come up with £18,000. We have already lost seven members due to the uncertainty.
"All we want is the chance to negotiate with them but the Trust declined. Our only option now may be to book the green from the ACT at £10/hour. ACT was approached for comment but in a post on social media, a spokesperson said: "ACT offered the green to the bowls club for sole use for competitive lawn bowling for the 2024 season at cost and this offer was declined. "The bowls club is a private club which ACT is not permitted to subsidise; ACT’s offer to the club was based on recovering only actual expenditure on the green. "ACT will continue to facilitate social bowling but cannot subsidise competitive bowling. ACT intends to continue to make the green available for social bowling and complementary activities (e.g yoga, tai-chi) through 2024, while Trustees consider its long-term future."
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Brabazon student digs approved Artist impression of the student accommodation's main entrance
Planning permission has been granted to accommodate 1,514 student beds at the future Brabazon site. The approved student accommodation will form part of YTL Development's new urban district on the former 380-acre Filton Airfield site, which will
include thousands of new homes, workspaces, an arena and a public park. It is anticipated that the 'mansion-style' student blocks, designed by architects Stride Treglown, will be open in time for the 2026-27 academic year, and will be located south of the
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Brabazon development, close to the proposed railway. Inside the digs, there will be karaoke rooms, a gaming suite and gym as well as shared study spaces. Outside will be a basketball court and green spaces. Sebastian Loyn, Planning and Development Director at YTL commented: “New purposebuilt student accommodation is essential to our vision to create a thriving, diverse new neighbourhood for Bristol. “When the student accommodation completes, approximately 400 private homes will also be occupied, giving a total of almost 2,000 new residents from all generations by 2026-7. “The new residents will facilitate the arrival of a new breed of cafes, shops and restaurants.
"They will ensure the new public transport services – the MetroBus and new train station – become sustainable and reliable options for the whole community. “Alongside the existing worldleading engineering cluster, the new residents at Brabazon will accelerate the transformation of North Bristol, ensuring it remains a place of opportunity and drives local prosperity for the next 100 years.” The MetroBus will stop at Brabazon and both the University of the West of England (UWE) and University of Bristol. The UWE campus is 1.5 mile walk or cycle away along dedicated bike paths and pedestrian routes. And a new railway station will serve Bristol Temple Meads in less than 15 minutes.
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Ultimate Quiz final a great success This month saw the ultimate quiz off final at BAWA Filton. Organised by Sam Munnings, the brain behind the quiz company Lets Get Quizzical, 40 teams came together to battle it out to become the champion of champions. Sam and his gang of 14 quiz hosts are seen in more than 40 locations per month, running a wide variety of themed quizzes to more than 100 quizzers per week. Set up in 2018 as an alternative to teaching, Sam has branched out to locations including Bristol, Keynsham, Swindon and Brighton. The Ultimate Quiz off was made up of 40 teams representing the highest scoring quiz teams from each regular quiz location. With great prizes on offer, the teams faced popular rounds, such as the music round, countdown round, snookered round and the dreaded all or nothing round where only the bravest teams will gamble for maximum points. All night, the totals were close with jokers and creativity moving the leaderboard around constantly with very few extra points coming from the bonus Play Your Cards Right round. At the end of the night, with some last-
minute risk taking, three teams pulled slightly ahead and they found the winners In third place, winning £100, were The Sippers representing The Sandringham in Downend. In second place, winning £200, were Bloodbath from The Crafty Cow on Gloucester Road. And in first place, winning a fantastic £500, were Three’s Comany representing The Castle in South Bristol. With funds being raised for Blythe House, who took care of Sam’s mum at the end of her illness, and lots of happy faces all round, a great night was had by all.
1st place - South Bristol Three’s Company
3rd place - The Sippers
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Britannia's miracle story retold
The nose of the Bristol Britannia which was salvaged after its emergency landing in the Severn Estuary back in 1954 The story of a legendary pilot, who courageously attempted to land the Bristol Britannia on the Severn Estuary seventy years ago, will be retold this February half term as part of an exhibition about the airliner. Aerospace Bristol on the former Filton Airfield is recounting the 'Miracle on the Severn' – a tale about Captain Bill Pegg, whose act of bravery on February 4 1954, saved the lives of all passengers on board when disaster struck during a demo flight over Wales. Carrying senior Bristol executives and representatives
from KLM, the Britannia, a second prototype, was flying back to Filton when one of the engines on the right-hand side caught fire, causing the other engines on board to shut down. Captain Pegg and his skilled crew managed to restart the engines on the left-hand side. But unsure if they would make it back to Filton, Pegg decided to immediately land on the banks of the Severn, close to where the original Severn Bridge stands today. The Britannia – nicknamed the Whispering Giant – was brought down safely.
The fire was put out and everyone on board waded across the mud to the safety of the nearby brickworks. However, the estuary’s fastmoving tide meant the aircraft was submerged within a few hours, and the Britannia had to be cut up to be removed. The nose now resides in Aerospace Bristol’s Heritage Hangar. Amy Seadon, Head of Collections, Learning and Interpretation at Bristol Aerospace said: “We are delighted to enhance our Britannia exhibition with the
story of the ‘Miracle on the Severn.’ This area of the museum explores the aircraft’s role in the golden era of flight and visitors will be able to view the Britannia from a different perspective. “The Whispering Giant was an amazing piece of engineering, being the world’s largest turboprop airliner of its time, and this half term visitors will be able to delve into its history through daily spotlight talks and create their very own airliner.” For more information about the Bristol Britannia exhibition, visit: aerospacebristol.org/ february-half-term.
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Filton planning applications in January
HM
Applications
house in multiple occupation (HMO) (Class C4) to a 8 bedroom large 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
Bedrock Court, 3 New Road Continued use of property as C4 House of Multiple Occupation (HMO) for up to 6 beds. 7 Braemar Crescent Continued use of the property as a 6no bed HMO. 798 Filton Avenue Change of use from dwelling (Class C3) to 6 bed House in Multiple Occupation (HMO). 29 Park Road Existing and continued as a small house in multiple occupation (Use Class C4). 798A Filton Avenue Change of use from dwelling (Class C3) to 6 bed House in Multiple Occupation (HMO). 3 Shellard Road The erection of a single storey rear extension, which would extend beyond the rear wall of the original
house by 4.5m, for which the maximum height would be 3m, and for which the height of the eaves would be 3m. 19 Braemar Avenue Continued use as House in Multiple Occupation (HMO). 64 Charles Road Continued use as House in Multiple Occupation (HMO) (Use Class C4).
Decisions 606 Filton Avenue Change of use from dwelling (Class C3) to small House in Multiple Occupation (Class C4). Refuse Certificate of Lawfulness 24 Fifth Avenue Change of use from dwellinghouse (Class C3) to a small 6 bed House in Multiple Occupation (HMO) (Class C4). Approve Certificate of Lawfulness 61 College Way Installation and relocation of
rooflights to rear roof slope. Approve with Conditions 11 Bude Road Demolition of existing single storey extension and garage. Erection of two storey side and rear extension to form additional living accommodation. Refusal 558 Filton Avenue Continued use of 558 Filton Avenue as a small House in Multiple Occupation (Use Class C4). Approve Certificate of Lawfulness 820A Filton Avenue Change of use from 1no. flat (Class C3) to small house in multiple occupancy (HMO) (Class C4) as defined in the Town and Country Planning (Use Classes Order) 1987 (as amended). Approve with Conditions 59 Mackie Road Installation of hip to gable roof extension and 1 rear dormer to facilitate change of use from small
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33 Conygre Grove Continued use as small House in Mulitple Occupation (HMO) (Class C4). Approve Certificate of Lawfulness 58 Mackie Road Change of use from dwelling house (Class C3) to 6 bedroom small HMO (Class C4) for up to six people with associated bin store, parking and works. Approve with Conditions Land At The Rear Of 89 Gloucester Road Demolition of existing building. Erection of 1no. detached dwelling and associated works. Refusal 38 Fourth Avenue Demolition of existing garage and lean-to rear extension. Erection
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Filton planning applications of single storey rear extension to facilitate change of use from small house in multiple occupation (HMO) (class C4) to a 7 bedroom, 7 occupant HMO (Sui generis) with parking and other associated works. Approve with Conditions 10 Holmdale Road Conversion of 1 summerhouse building to 1 dwelling with associated works. Refusal 15 Fourth Avenue Change of use from a dwellinghouse (Class C3) to a small HMO (Class C4) for up to 6 people. Approve with Conditions 7 Northville Road Change of use from dwellinghouse (Use Class C3) to a large house in multiple occupation for up to 7no. people (sui generis) as defined in the Town and Country Planning (Use Classes) Order 1987 (as amended) and installation of hip-to-gable and rear dormer roof extension. Approve with Conditions 63 Conygre Grove
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Change of use from dwellinghouse (Class C3) to 8 no. bedroom house of multiple occupation for up to 8 no. occupants (Class Sui Generis) as defined in the Town and Country Planning (Use Classes) Order 1987 (Retrospective). Approve with Conditions 27 Third Avenue Change of use from a small house of multiple occupancy (Class C4) to a seven-bedroom HMO (Sui Generis) for up to seven people with associated parking, bin storage and cycle parking. Approve with Conditions 3 Charles Road Erection of single storey side cycle store. Erection of single storey rear extension, two storey side extension to facilitate change of use from residential dwelling (Class C3) to a 8 bedroom large house in multiple occupation (HMO) for up to 8 people (Sui Generis). Refusal To read full applications, visit beta.southglos.gov.uk/searchplanning-applications/
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Political row over dental services From Page 1
eight dental surgeries who have provided a recent update in the Filton and Bradley Stoke constituency, none are currently accepting any new adult or child patients. "Despite this growing issue in the area, Jack Lopresti voted against the motion." The motion tabled by Labour proposed: ● 700,000 more urgent dentistry appointments ● Incentives to recruit dentists to the areas most in need ● Supervised toothbrushing in schools for three- to five-yearolds ● Reform of the NHS dental contract so everyone who needs a dentist can get one Ms Hazelgrove added Labour would fund their plan by abolishing the non-dom tax status, a tax break which allows wealthy people who live and work in Britain to pay their taxes overseas. Mr Lopresti said: "Sir Keir Starmer’s Labour Party put an opposition motion to the House of Commons which was meaningless and had no means to change government policy. "It did not consider the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic had on the NHS and Britain’s economy and society. But crucially, it offered no plan and merely pointed to issues and focused on negativity. "While Labour offers no plan to fix or fund NHS-funded dentistry, the Conservatives have published the NHS’s first ever Long-Term Workforce Plan which has committed to expand NHS dentistry training places by 40 per cent, alongside
encouraging dentists to spend more time delivering NHS care. "Instead of indulging Labour’s empty words, it is this plan with long-term thinking which must be given a chance to succeed." Ms Hazelgrove added: "The collapse of NHS dentistry has left millions of patients unable to get an appointment when they need one. Analysis of patient survey data suggests that last year, 4.75 million people were either told there were no appointments available or the practice wasn’t taking on new patients, when they last tried to book an appointment. "Patients in communities across the Filton and Bradley Stoke constituency are finding it impossible to see a dentist, with some having to resort to DIY dentistry. "Yet when the chance came to do something about it, the current Conservative MP voted against it. “Like many, I don’t have an NHS dentist myself and I know and share the worry that can cause. “I was grateful to the Shadow Health Secretary, Wes Streeting MP, for speaking on my behalf in the House of Commons in support of doing so, and to share the story of a lady in Filton. “Her and her father’s dentist went private and cancelled their appointments, having recently diagnosed her with dental disease and her elderly father, who has dementia, as needing a tooth removed so that he could eat. This is not what local people should expect.”
Jack Lopresti and Claire Hazelgrove
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HMOs – a need in our communities?
The increase in the number of HMOs (Houses in multiple Occupation) in Filton has been controversial in recent years with residents saying they affect parking and have affected the sense of community in the town. Here, Ami Fowler, Director of Freeman Residential, offers another perspective and says good management is the key to making HMOs work alongside privately owned homes There is a lot of controversy in some towns relating to HMOs. Some argue that HMOs are over running local communities and issues with waste management, parking and loss of a once tightknit community are some of the biggest concerns raised. But if you read on, we may be able to offer a different insight to this. Why are HMOs such a necessity? Due to the current state of the housing crisis in England, buying is simply not an option for a lot of people, especially for young & single people. There really aren’t enough homes to house our citizens. Interest rates are the highest they have been since 2009 which means mortgage rates are at their highest too, and salaries simply aren’t matching up to the house prices. Lack of savings and huge mortgages means this option is eliminated for a lot of people. Renting has also become an increasing struggle. Rents have increased by 52% in the past decade so for people wishing to rent a property, for some this is not possible as earnings have only increased by half of this. A one bed flat can set you back well over a thousand pounds, before even considering bills, insurance, deposits etc. Gas and electricity prices have doubled since the Ukraine crisis and so making more demands on homeowners or renters’ pockets. There is also a huge amount of competition for accommodation in Bristol, meaning even if you could afford self-contained accommodation, you won’t necessarily get it. And if you can’t afford it, you still might not qualify for council housing or other benefits to assist with this. It’s simply becoming less affordable for property hunters and less worthwhile for landlords, resulting in them selling up, creating a higher demand on those remaining properties. This is where HMOs come in. They are often not someone’s preference but often someone’s last resort. HMOs offer these people a room and all the facilities they need, including bills, for less than
a thousand pounds a month. It is becoming the most affordable way to live in a city. If HMOs were not an accommodation option, the people contributing to and benefitting the community and economy by buying goods from our shops, using community facilities such as leisure centres, restaurants, takeaways etc may not be in Bristol, or may become homeless. Homelessness is at an all-time high in our towns and cities in the UK and without HMOs this could increase significantly. Who actually lives in HMOs? There is a common misconception that if someone is developing a house into a HMO near you, it will be filled with students and young adults who have little understanding or respect for the local community. However, this isn’t always the case. Within our 25 HMO properties we have people in the nursing profession, carers, engineers, warehousemen or skilled workers who work within our communities. Our Filton houses have a lot of people who work at Southmead Hospital, care homes in the area, Rolls Royce and Airbus etc who are valued workers and are contributing wholly to our communities. We don’t let to large groups of sharers, in fact all our rooms are single occupancy, and often those people are the single people that are not able to get a mortgage, or rent a self-contained apartment on a single income. Without HMOs they potentially would not be able to afford to
live and work in the area, causing more skills gaps and vacancies that might otherwise not be filled. If HMOs are the saviour, then why the bad reputation? I have been working in the property industry managing HMOs for over 13 years. These roles enabled me to see the good and bad sides of HMOs. Because of this I can empathise with people’s negative views on this type of accommodation, but I also understand how they can be managed in a way that has a positive impact on the local community. One of the main concerns raised is the quantity of HMOs. So why would one or two on a street be ok, and not ten, for example. The reason for that I believe boils down to the fact that people fear bad tenants, bad landlords, and bad management. Two badly managed HMOs on a street is a headache, but with 10, that street becomes an undesirable place to live. Bringing multiple HMOs into a community has to be done in a certain way for it to be successful, and the fact is that quite often, it’s not done well enough. But not all HMOs can be tarred with the same brush. The immediate thought process is to restrict the number of HMOs in certain areas. This has already taken place in the Filton area but this could have a negative impact on renters and realistically doesn’t resolve the problems neighbourhoods are currently facing with HMOs. In my opinion, dealing with the bad HMOs is a better solution.
As an example, my rent to rent HMO business takes care of the management of the sharers and maintenance of the property. We ensure each house has a House Manager, most of whom live in the properties. They are in charge of cleaning the house on a daily basis, managing the waste, ensuring house rules are followed and reporting back any potential issues with our sharers. This means we have eyes on our houses at all times. In addition to this we have gardeners who maintain the outsides to ensure our properties do not lower the standards within residential areas. Within our company we only let to sharers who are working professionals, over the age of 21, to ensure that the people we are putting in our houses are going to fit in well with the local community. We have a firm set of rules for them to follow to minimise anti-social behaviour. We have restrictions on guests and we ensure that if there isn’t suitable parking at a house, we only allow a certain number of people with cars. We have been running this business model for over 15 years and our approach has meant we have never had complaints made about any of our HMO houses by anyone in the community. The point here is that HMOs don’t have to be a negative. By managing a HMO efficiently, we have been able to provide a good standard of housing at a reasonable cost and ensure least disruption in our communities. They shouldn’t all have a bad reputation. So how do we move forward to accepting HMOs into the local community? HMOs need good management, before, during and after a tenancy begins. Anyone can become a landlord, and so ultimately, it’s the council’s responsibility to get involved and crack down on bad landlords and bad management companies. We hope that sharing how our HMO company operates is a step towards restoring people’s faith and perhaps inspires other landlords to take a similar approach in their management styles. See advert, Page 2
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February, 2024
Countdown to YTL Arena begins By Alex Seabrook, LDRS reporter It’s now two years until the new Bristol arena is due to open in a former airfield in Filton. The YTL Arena Bristol is due to open to giggoers in late 2025 or early 2026. The arena will have a capacity of 19,000 and is planned for the former Brabazon Hangars, the home of Concorde. Thousands of homes are also planned on the former airfield, as well as a new train station due to open in the middle of 2026. The arena is being built by YTL, a Malaysian firm which also owns Wessex Water. Over five years ago Bristol mayor Marvin Rees scrapped plans for a new arena near Temple Meads, due to the risk to the taxpayer, and opted to get YTL to build a new arena in Filton instead. Critics at the time questioned how giggoers would get to the venue, on the northern edge of Bristol, without driving there. The new North Filton train station is due to open a few months after the arena, but trains will likely only run once an hour. Trains could serve the new station every half hour, but this depends on first getting funding for upgrades. The current
YTL Arena. Photo credit: Grimshaw Architects infrastructure cannot run a 15-minute train service, reducing how many passengers can travel to and from gigs. Shuttle buses will also be running from the Portway park and ride, near the Avonmouth junction of the M5. A dedicated Metrobus route will also serve the development. Massive Attack played at the Steel Yard
News There's something for everyone at annual women's day event Celebrations for International Women's Day will be taking place this March with an exciting line-up of activities to mark the occasion. Campaigners for women's equality, Bristol Women's Voice, will be hosting this annual event, taking place at City Hall, on College Green, Saturday, March 2, 10am-5pm. There is something for everyone, with over 50 activities showcasing women speakers, organisations and accessible activities that cover movement, art, film, debate, sport, employment, wellbeing and more. More than 300 Bristol women will be volunteering to make this event happen. There will also be a creche, interpretation and BSL. FirstBus is donating free bus passes, available from info@ bristolwomensvoice.org.uk. Panel discussions will include Global Feminisms, Women in the Built Environment, Women and Health, the Caring Economy as well as Breaking the Barriers
Photo credit: Tina Gue, BWV
at Filton Airfield in 2019, when shuttle buses to the venue were put on to Bristol centre. Queen also played a private concert there in 2022. Also that year, Bristol City Council bid to host the Eurovision song contest in May 2023, with the Brabazon Hangars as a venue. However, the city lost out to winners Liverpool.
Filton Community Garden
GARDENING GET-TOGETHERS
Alternate weekends 11am - 1pm We need more volunteers to help keep the garden looking great for all to enjoy. Just turn up on the day, bring your gloves and enthusiasm, no experience necessary. Tools and guidance provided.
to Women in Sports. Speakers confirmed so far include Bristol Rovers, Bristol Bears, and West of England Mayor Dan Norris. You can learn to make a podcast with Ujima Radio, get involved with Black Women’s Theatre with Breathing Fire, take part in armchair yoga, get involved in crafting as protest or have your voice heard at the open mic space or the older women and the younger women’s forums. Fore more information visit: www.bristolwomensvoice.org. uk.
SEPTEMBER
Saturday 30th
OCTOBER
Saturday 14th Saturday 28th
NOVEMBER
Saturday 11th
Following Remembrance at 11am
Saturday 25th
Followed by AGM at 2pm at FACE
Email: communitygarden@filtontowncouncil.gov.uk Online updates at facebook.com/FiltonCommunityGarden
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February, 2024
E: richard@filtonvoice.co.uk
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Filton MP Jack Lopresti
Why proposal for parking charges must be scrapped
I
t was great to be back at my local office in Bradley Stoke bright and early on January 2, hard at work helping constituents with problems, arranging surgeries, local visits and events. I am working with my colleagues – Conservative councillors – campaigning against the introduction of car parking charges by South Gloucestershire Council. Indeed, a petition has been brought forward to scrap these charges and has been signed by more than 1,200 local residents. This unfair and unnecessary policy will put pressure on local businesses, retailers and our high streets at a time when they are still recovering from the COVID pandemic and is an ill-judged and poorly timed move on the part of the Labour/ Liberal coalition at South Gloucestershire Council. Please
consider signing our petition at: www.bsgconservatives.com/ car-parking-charge-petition In other news, I recently met with Stagecoach who told me about changes they are making to their service. I am delighted that Stagecoach West has made significant improvements and expansions to their 3X bus route to include Bristol Temple Meads and Bristol Parkway train stations, in addition to increasing the frequency of service. This will make a real difference for residents, commuters and visitors across our area. In addition to services provided by Stagecoach, I am redoubling my efforts to bring about improvements to other bus services. The West of England Combined Authority has made cuts to services such as the 458, 459 and 936. I have written to the minister for roads and local transport, requesting for these
Loft Boarding & Insulation
bus services to be reinstated. Our local bus services are crucial for parents to get their children to schools safely and on time. I am working with ministers to urge the West of England mayor to think again about the cuts made to our bus services. In addition to buses, I have undertaken a new project. Many cities across the country, including Bristol and Bath, are introducing low emissions zones
and accompanying scrappage schemes to compensate those with vehicles which do not meet the new environmental standards for those cities. Last year, there were many otherwise roadworthy vehicles scrapped and a large number of these vehicles could be put to good use by our friends in Ukraine to help them in their ongoing campaign to defeat the Russians. Vehicles such as 4x4s and pickup trucks could be utilised as ambulances, mobile drone control stations, weapons platforms, officers’ command vehicles as well as for general runarounds. l As always, should you need my help with anything, my office is open from Monday to Friday between 9am and 6pm. Please telephone me on 01454 617783 or email me at: jack.lopresti. mp@parliament.uk if I can be of assistance or to book a surgery.
Way A Head
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is the reliable, affordable and trusted local company for all your loft boarding, and loft insulation requirements
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Filton Town Council
Council meetings January Tuesday 30th, 7pm, Full Council Active Nation Filton, Studio 1
February Tuesday 6th, 6pm, Staffing Committee Active Nation Filton, FTC Council room NON PUBLIC 13th, 7pm, Full Council Finance & General Purposes Active Nation Filton, Studio 1 20th, 7pm, Planning Committee Active Nation Filton, FTC Council room 27th, 7pm, Full Council Active Nation Filton, Studio 1
CONTACT FILTON TOWN COUNCIL Office Opening Hours The council offices are open to the public Monday to Friday 9.00 am-1.00pm and appointment only 1.00pm – 5.00pm The Council Offices are located at Elm Park, Filton, South Gloucestershire, BS34 7PS. Call The Town Council Office 01454 803918 Email the Town Council Office Council Enquiries – office@filtontowncouncil.gov.uk
Filton Town Council
ELM PARK | FILTON | SOUTH GLOUCESTERSHIRE | BS34 7PS Town Clerk: Lesley Reuben Web: www.filtontowncouncil.gov.uk E-mail:lesley.reuben@filtontowncouncil.gov.uk Tel: 01454 80 3918
VACANCY FOR A TOWN COUNCILLOR IN THE NORTHVILLE WARD The opportunity has arisen for Filton Town Council to co-opt a member of the local community onto the Council. To be eligible you must be 18 years old or over, of good character and have been registered on the Filton electoral roll for at least 12 months. If you are interest in standing you will need to give a short presentation to Council about yourself and what qualities you could bring to the role of Town Councillor 26th March 2024 at 7p.m. Please notify the Town Clerk, Lesley Reuben by midnight on 12th March if you would like to be considered. If you require any further information the please contact the Town Clerk.
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SS Great Britain
Tickets that last a year; memories that last a lifetime Value for money is more important than ever this year, especially for families. At Brunel’s SS Great Britain, buy tickets once and visit as many times as you like for a whole year. With two interactive museums and a Victorian steamship to explore, there’s more to experience than you think. There are hundreds of sights, sounds and smells to discover along with new activities for each school holiday, meaning no two days out are the same. This year’s theme of botany explores the vital role of steamships like the SS Great Britain in the global migration of plants in the Victorian era and the lasting impact on our world today. It kicks off in February half term with Victorian paper flower-making and bookmark-making, with many more family activities to come throughout 2024. For more information, visit ssgreatbritain.org.
February, 2024
Victorian bookmark making is just one of the many activities on at the SS Great Britain this February half term
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FEATURES
A new section in your Filtonvoice, with gardening, puzzles, books and more for all.
Paul Hollywood’s Italian Ciabatta Bread is so many different things to so many different people – a snack, a starter, or even an entire meal. For me, its rustic beauty is never bettered than when done by the Italians who, in the same way that they do with so much other cuisine, seem to lace every mouthful with provenance, history and love. Step forward, the ciabatta!
Method 1. Lightly oil a 2-3 litre square plastic container, then tip the flour in the bowl of the mixer and
trays with baking parchment or
add the salt to one side and the
silicone paper.
yeast to the other side, so they’re not close.
Dust your work surface heavily with more of the flour and add
2. Add the olive oil and ¾ of
some semolina too, if you have
the water and begin mixing on
it, then tip out the wet dough
a slow speed with the dough
onto the surface, handling it
(Serves 4)
hook attachment. As the dough
gently to keep as much air in it
• 500g strong white bread flour, plus extra for dusting
starts to come together, slowly
as possible.
add the remaining water. Then
Ingredients: Ingredients: • 10g fine sea salt • 10g instant yeast • 40ml olive oil • 400ml tepid water • Fine semolina for dusting (optional)
mix for a further 5-8 minutes on
5. Coat the top of the dough
a medium speed until the dough
with more flour and/or semolina,
is smooth and stretchy.
cut in half lengthways and divide each of those in half-length
3. Tip out the dough into the
ways also. You should now have
prepared tub and spread it so
four long pieces of dough.
it reaches all sides and corners. Cover with a tea towel or
6. Stretch each piece a bit length
reusable plastic wrap and leave
ways and place on the prepared
somewhere warm until it has
baking trays, then leave to rest
doubled or even trebled in size,
uncovered for 10 minutes.
1-2 hours or longer. Now bake for 25 minutes or until 4. Once the dough has doubled
the loaves are golden brown and
or tripled in size, pre-heat your
sound hollow when tapped.
oven to 220°C (Fan 200°C)/
Cool on a wire rack, and enjoy!
Gas mark 7. Line two baking
February Fiction As the year fully gets into its stride, why not immerse yourself in a new yarn from this selection of great offerings… Queens of London by Heather Webb (Feb 6th) Queens of London is set in the murky post-WWI era of our capital, and the showcase is “a gang of women you’ve never heard of,” – Britain’s first female crime syndicate, no less – and one that decided the female of the species can indeed have it all. The Fury by Alex Michaelides (Feb 1st) From the author of The Silent Patient and The Maidens comes a compelling closed community thriller,
as a former movie star throws a select party on a private Greek island whilst a murderer lurks in the shadows. Red Side Story by Jasper Fforde (Feb 6th) The author of The Eyre Affair and The Constant Rabbit delivers a typically singular dystopia rich in wit and his own delightfully singular vision, as two citizens of a world whose hierarchies are based on the colour spectrum strike out on a quest looking for answers. It’s a tale of a young couple’s thirst for justice and answers in an implacably rigid society.
The Guest by B.A. Paris (Feb 20th) Trouble emerges when Iris and Gabriel come home from a make-orbreak holiday to find Laure, one of their best friends, in their house. She is sleeping in their bed, wearing Iris’ clothes, even rearranging the furniture. Iris and Gabriel want to be supportive, but as Laure’s mood becomes more unpredictable, her presence begins to unravel secrets in all their pasts.
Greenfingers… the Alan Titchmarsh column
He’s a magnificent broadcaster, gifted gardener, brilliant author and all-round horticultural visionary. This month, Alan Titchmarsh talks about the best flowers – other than roses – for Valentine’s Day.
Valentine’s Day is a celebration decorated by crimson petals and sweet scents, often symbolised by the ever-present rose. Yet, when it comes to our gardens, there is so much more out there that can raise the thoughts of romance.
First, let us pay homage to the tulip, a bloom that, in its elegance, speaks of perfect love. From purest whites through to deepest purples, it is really quite beautiful. Elsewhere, many regard the orchid as a bloom of exotic beauty, mystique and delicacy… yet it is a symbol of love, luxury and, believe it or not, strength. Its delicate appearance belies its resilience. Similarly, a bouquet of peonies suggests a promise for abundant joy in the years to come, while the ranunculus (or buttercup) is an enchanting choice. With rose-like blossoms, ranunculuses are all about charisma and allure – a fine way to celebrate a day dedicated to affection.
The answer to what you should give to a loved one on Valentine’s Day though is, ultimately, anything! A sprig of lavender, a lone daisy, a single bluebell – let the flower you choose be just the first step to a commitment every bit as great as the gardens and allotments and window boxes we tend to.
Puzzles The FIEND
Each row, column and square (9 spaces each) needs to be filled out with the numbers 1-9, without repeating any numbers within the row, column or square.
For younger readers
NOTE After feedback from readers, we have made The Fiend SLIGHTLY easier!
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6 3 4 2 7 3 4 1 4 3 3 8 9 6 1 1 6 7 8 5 3 4 2
Quick Crossword Across Clues: 2. A performance (3) 16. Loud, harsh laughter (6) 5. Universe or outer space (6) 18. Noteworthy accomplishment (11) 7. Money earned (6) 9. Sweet, spiced cookie (11) 19. Traditional Korean side (6) 10. Various phases (6) 20. Resolve (6) 11. Disprove (6) 13. Artwork created by small 21. Digit on foot (3) pieces (6)
Down Clues: 1. Fail to remember (6) 2. Ability to enter (6) 3. Wood used in construction (6) 4. In the middle of (6) 6. Pertaining to a single piece (11) 8. Constant factor (11)
10. Total (3) 12. Female sheep (3) 14. Type of photocopying process (6) 15. Permission to buy goods (6) 16. Dairy product made from milk (6) 17. Small in size (6)
#036
1 5
2 6
3 7
4 8
9
10
13
11
14
15
16
18
19
20 21
12
17
Answers: Across: 2. Act, 5. Cosmic, 7. Income, 9. Gingerbread, 10. Stages, 11. Refute, 13. Mosaic, 16. Cackle, 18. Achievement, 19. Kimchi, 20. Settle, 21. Toe. Down: 1. Forget, 2. Access, 3. Timber, 4. Amidst, 6. Monographic, 8. Coefficient, 10. Sum, 12. Ewe, 14. Ozalid, 15. Credit, 16. Cheese, 17. Little.
Understanding Mental Health
February 1st marks mental health charity MIND’s ‘Time To Talk Day’ – an initiative that aims to open up even further conversations about mental health – yet our understanding is a year-round exercise, so with that thought, here’s how you can improve your own. Causes Life events The death of a loved one, losing a job or relationship breakdowns can trigger mental health problems. Even positive changes, such as getting married or having a baby, can lead to stress or anxiety. Work and finances Work-related pressures, the stress of unemployment, and facing financial challenges can have a deep influence on an individual’s mental wellbeing, affecting daily life and overall happiness. Relationships Navigating strained relationships, whether with family members, friends or intimate partners, can be emotionally taxing. Such tensions can foster feelings of isolation, loneliness and worthlessness.
Genetics and physical health problems Living with chronic disease, dealing with a genetic health condition, or confronting a grave illness can be overwhelmingly stressful, often acting as a catalyst for mental health challenges like depression or anxiety, affecting one’s overall quality of life.
Appetite and aches Experiencing notable weight fluctuations, coupled with altered eating patterns, can be symptomatic of stress, while continuous physical manifestations, such as recurrent headaches or consistent stomach discomfort, can be related mental health issues.
Signs Mood swings Experiencing dramatic mood fluctuations, or enduring extended periods dominated by intense emotions such as profound sadness, anger or even elation, can signal underlying mental health concerns; while enduring a relentless stream of negative thoughts is a serious indication of mental health distress requiring immediate attention and support.
How to access help Talk to someone Your GP should be your first port of call, while seeking guidance from a trained therapist or counsellor can offer a structured and supportive environment to move forward into.
Withdrawal Deliberately distancing oneself from friends, family and previously enjoyed social engagements, may indicate a shift in emotional wellbeing or the emergence of mental health challenges. Sleep problems Feeling overwhelmed by fatigue, or battling persistent insomnia (or, conversely, experiencing periods of excessive sleep), can signify underlying emotional or mental health challenges.
Don’t stop there – voicing emotions and feelings to a trusted friend or family member can offer significant relief and provide a sense of understanding. Helplines Organisations such as MIND, whose ‘Time To Talk Day’ is on February 1st, offer avenues where individuals can talk anonymously about their feelings. Communities Finally, there are various communities – online and face-to-face – where people share their experiences and provide support to one another. These can foster connections where individuals can feel a strong sense of belonging and mutual understanding.
Alt native Amore Ditch the clichés this Valentine’s Day and embrace not just your partner, but a unique way to celebrate the union you have together. Outdoor adventure How about the thrill of being amongst nature, immersing yourself – and a loved one – in the serenity and raw beauty of the outdoors? Whether it’s hiking through winding trails, whispering sweet nothings under a starlit sky, or enjoying a sunrise breakfast picnic, being in and around Mother Nature offers a unique way to connect. Cultural exploration If you like your adventure under the security of a roof (or at very least a piece of tarpaulin), why not expand cultural horizons by visiting a museum, art exhibition or festival? Even couples who have been together for decades should still be looking to discover new perspectives, so stroll hand-in-hand through galleries, get swept up in the vibrant atmosphere of a local cultural event, or simply head to the local pub quiz! Home cooking Transform your kitchen into a portal of romantic gluttony! Simply choose a country, then challenge each other to dive into its culinary treasures by cooking a traditional dish or two. More than just preparing a meal, this creates an adventure in flavours and techniques, offers a chance to experiment and laugh over meal-time mishaps, and should leave you both feeling satisfied and replete at the end of it.
Volunteer together It could be anything from helping at a local animal shelter, supporting a community garden, to participating in a beach clean-up, but spending Valentine’s Day giving back isn’t just altruistic; it deepens your bond in a unique way. Working side by side in supporting a cause bigger than yourselves will help you gain new insights into each other’s compassion, empathy and strengths. Artistic endeavours Choose a fun, artistic activity such as painting, pottery, or crafting. Set up a space where you can be messy and playful, whether it’s spreading canvases for a painting session, shaping clay on a pottery wheel, or assembling a handmade craft. The focus should be on the joy and laughter that comes from making something together, no matter how it turns out! Memory lane Finally, for those of us permanently caught in the dewy-eyed sentimentality of romance, consider revisiting the place where your love story began by re-enacting your first date. While the experience is, of course, a lighthearted look at recreating a special moment, it will doubtless also about serve as a poignant reflection on the journey you’ve shared since then.
Louis Theroux Interview Esteemed documentary filmmaker Louis Theroux opens the lid on his latest triumphant TV return, and reveals how taking his work home almost killed him. Louis Theroux has mastered the art of storytelling, introducing audiences to unique individuals and, in the process, allowing for profound self-exploration. Yet few understand the weight of such adventures and how taking these stories home nearly cost him everything. Theroux reflects: “It’s never as simple as just shutting down the camera and proceeding to the next assignment. The essence of documentary work goes deeper than that. “Every encounter, every story – regardless of its duration – leaves an indelible mark on you. It’s about recognising and internalising those shifts, understanding that each experience has, in subtle or profound ways, reshaped your perspective and arguably altered your narrative going forward.” For many, distinguishing between personal and professional spheres can sometimes prove to be a complex endeavour, and even for someone as intelligent and skilled as Theroux, the reality is no different. In one memorable instance, he immersed himself in the world of America’s most infamous White Aryan Resistance hate group, and admitted: “For that, the feeling of disquiet refused to dissipate easily. Its grip remained steadfast and persistent.”
Another instance – memorable for the wrong reasons – occurred when Theroux filmed one of his BBC Two specials called Mothers on the Edge, meeting women who have been admitted with a range of serious conditions – including depression, anxiety and psychosis. It had a profound effect on him. “That one was testament to the silent battles many face, and it reminded me of the universality of human experience and emotion.” Theroux’s encounters, with extremists, criminals and those on the fringes of society, often left him emotionally vulnerable. “There were moments in the middle of the night when sleep would elude me, and other times when I could sleep but the result was tortuous,” he candidly recalls. “Some experiences imprint themselves so profoundly that they’re irreversible. If you find them hard to shake off, there is a real danger of them becoming an inseparable chapter of your personal narrative.” Yet Theroux refuses to let the journey keep him away from his passion. His latest interviews include boxer Anthony Joshua, Hollywood icon Dame Joan Collins, and whistleblowing activist Chelsea Manning. Theroux says: “Working on new programmes was hugely gratifying. The guests were all absolute individuals in every way, and excellent in diverse ways, who have negotiated obstacles and grown to accomplish colossal feats. “I am glad we are still talking…”
Digging for Europe In the crisp winter air of February 6th 1964, some six decades ago, the British and French governments etched their signatures into an agreement that promised to redefine the geographic and economic landscape of Europe. At the time, the Channel Tunnel – or ‘Chunnel’ as it soon became affectionately nicknamed – was envisioned as a twin-tunnelled rail link that would burrow beneath the English Channel, providing an unprecedented physical link between the two. The audacity of this venture was matched only by the exuberant confidence of the era. Projections at the signing heralded a mere five years for completion, a timeline that, in retrospect, was as much a product of wild ambition as it was of the technological optimism of the 1960s. British Prime Minister Alec Douglas-Home and French President Charles de Gaulle viewed the tunnel as a conduit for greater economic collaboration, strengthening both social and commercial ties between the two vibrant capitals. However, the journey to completion was as turbulent as the waters above the tunnel’s eventual path. The initial optimism waned as technical, financial and political hurdles emerged. The five-year projection turned into a 30-year marathon, with
construction officially commencing only in 1988. It would be another six years further on that the world witnessed the realisation of this Herculean undertaking. The official opening of the Channel Tunnel, on May 6th 1994, not only marked the project’s completion, but also ushered in a transformative period for European transportation. President François Mitterrand of France and the UK’s longreigning monarch Queen Elizabeth II inaugurated matters, and in the years since, the link – which also encompassed the revolutionary foot passenger Eurostar service – has offered speed, connectivity and a travel experience that is both novel and transformative.
Each Eurostar train has a capacity of 900 passengers, with two departing each hour. The Channel Tunnel, meanwhile, can move 120 cars and 12 coaches under the sea on each service, with a departure every 10 minutes at peak times, a maximum speed of 99mph, and a journey time of just 35 minutes. The accomplishment of the latter has also bolstered freight transport, becoming a vital link for the conveyance of goods between the UK and Europe, where previously ferries took the burden. In reflection, it seems many of the ambitious forecasts of 1964 – while not realised in any timeline – ultimately came to fruition. So as we approach the 30th anniversary of its opening, and the 60th of its conception, the Channel Tunnel stands not only as an engineering marvel, but a testament to the enduring human spirit of connection and innovation.
A Design for Life… The Kevin McCloud Column Designer, writer and television presenter, Kevin McCloud leapt into our consciousness with his vastly successful Grand Designs show on Channel 4. This month, the affable architectural business owner talks about how we can weigh up properties at both ends of the scale. I’ve long championed the virtues of good design, sustainable materials and the transformative power of personal touch on a space. It’s how I built a business, made a career, and inspired myself and, I hope, others.
It’s this grand potential for transformation that catches the imagination, and there is of course shrewdness in selecting the street’s overlooked ‘ugly duckling’, as the opportunity for its revival is compelling. Think of this, though - our homes are not islands, but pieces of a larger backdrop… that being the local community. And it is the whole picture that ultimately gives us our perception of ‘home’. From schools to parks, restaurants to roads, our environments shape us as much as we shape them. So what’s the point in all this? Good question! It’s perhaps the reality that while we work, strive and obsess over our homes, as personal and private things, ultimately it is everything around us that we should focus on.
As such, the age-old adage of buying the worst house on the best street, rather than the best house on the worst street, has always fascinated me. After all, location is unalterable, but a property’s bricks and mortar are not.
In these uncertain times of social disruption and economic uncertainty, we can take real hope, real comfort and find genuine clarity from what is outside. So unlock your doors, throw open the windows and consider the communal narrative as just as valuable to your home, and your life there. Those external surroundings – and that includes the people we share our communities
with – do not need to mirror our homes or ourselves. They just need to be in harmony with them. So in times when we cannot do all we want to our four walls, to our bricks and mortar, let’s be grateful for what exists outside.
n MESSAGE FROM AVON & SOMERSET PCC
Make this the year you volunteer ARE you looking for a new opportunity - and a challenge? Why not make this the year you get involved in supporting community safety? There are many opportunities to volunteer through the Police and Crime Commissioner’s Office, including several roles we are currently recruiting for. All are crucial in helping me to effectively hold the police to account and support improvement of the service they deliver to local people. I am looking for people from a range of backgrounds, professions and experience who are passionate about ensuring the police are efficient and effective to become members of our joint audit committee (JAC). The roles are voluntary but do attract an annual payment of £2,000, plus expenses. The JAC is independent, and
advises on good governance and providing assurance on the effectiveness of the Police and Crime Commissioner’s Office. It assesses risks to the organisation, undertakes compliance checks and ensures good financial practices are in place and followed. You can apply for the role online here: tinyurl.com/yc2emtyc. I am also currently recruiting for independent custody visitors, who carry out unannounced inspections of police custody centres to ensure people being held in custody are aware of their rights and what they are entitled to for their well-being while detained. Volunteers sign up to do one visit per month to one of three custody centres located in Keynsham, Patchway and Bridgwater. Being arrested and taken into custody will be a moment of stress,
and when people are at their lowest ebb. These roles are part of my legal responsibility to scrutinise the work of the police, and my custody visitor volunteers are members of the public who ensure the police provide the level of care and respect we expect. You can apply directly for this role online here: tinyurl. com/38ky3pex. February 6 is Safer Internet Day, a campaign designed to remind and empower people to use the internet safely. As the national lead for Economic and Cyber Crime at the Association of Police and Crime Commissioners (APCC), I want to echo these sentiments and encourage everyone to practice secure internet usage, taking back control from cybercriminals. If there’s one action anyone can take, it’s using strong and unique
With Police and Crime Commissioner Mark Shelford passwords for each online account, a simple step that can keep you protected. If you’ve fallen victim to a scam, know that there’s no shame in seeking support. Contact your bank immediately, and then report the scam to Action Fraud at 0300 123 2040 or online through actionfraud.police.uk.
FREE EVENTS AT FILTON LIBRARY IN FEBRUARY Contact the library at filton.library@southglos.gov.uk or call 01454 868006
LIBRARY OPENING TIMES Monday
10-5.30
Tuesday
OPEN ACCESS
Wednesday
10-5.30
Thursday
10-5.30
Friday
OPEN ACCESS
Saturday
9.30-1
Sunday
OPEN ACCESS
Art Club!
SATURDAY 10TH 11AM-12PM GET CREATIVE IN OUR NEW ART CLUB! THIS MONTH WE ARE MAKING PAPER CHAINS. FOR KIDS AGES 4+, ONCE EVERY FOUR WEEKS. FIRST RULE OF ART CLUB: TELL ALL YOUR FRIENDS ABOUT ART CLUB.
CRAFTS FROM THE RIVERBANK WED 14TH 2.30-3.30PM
WANT TO ACCESS THE LIBR ARY 7 DAYS A WEEK? FIND OUT MORE HERE: SOU THGLOS.GOV.UK/OPENAC CESS
S
WEEKLY DROP-IN EVENT
Stories & Play! Rhymetime Councillor Surgery
COME ALONG AND JOIN IN WITH A FREE DROP IN CRAFT SESSION! MOST SUITABLE FOR KIDS AGED 4-11. IF YOU CAN’T COME ON THE DAY, TAKE HOME BAGS WILL BE AVAILABLE THROUGHOUT THE HOLIDAY
Monday
11:15-11:45
Wednesday 10:30-11:00
Saturday 9.30-10.30
NTS ALL OF OUR WEEKLY EVE ARE FREE DROP-INS
Joining the library is free & easy! Come and join today!
LEGO CLUB Saturday 3rd and 17th, 10:30 to 11:30 Join us for creative Lego fun! Our themed sessions are perfect for kids aged 4-11 to stretch their imaginations. There's no need to bookjust come along!
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February, 2024
What's on in Filton ... email shane@filtonvoice.co.uk St Peter’s Church: Services
Sunday 28 January To celebrate Candlemas 8.30am and 10am Eucharist Sunday 4 February 10am Eucharist and 5pm Youth of God Sunday 11 February 8.30am and 10am Eucharist. 6pm Taizé * in the Lady Chapel Sunday 18 February 8.30am and 10am Family Eucharist Sunday 25 February 8.30am and 10am Eucharist with a Girlguiding Church Parade to celebrate Thinking Day Midweek Said Eucharists are on Wednesdays at 7pm and Thursdays at 11am, including special services for Ash Wednesday on 14th February to mark the beginning of Lent. Keep an eye on our website for further information.
who will be only too happy to help. rector@stpeterschurchfilton.com and faith.stpeterschurchfilton@gmail.com
St Andrew's Methodist Church Regular Services Sundays Morning Service 10.30 am. Little Lights (for children whose parents are attending worship). Please join us and you will receive a warm welcome. Tuesdays Wesley Guild, alternate Tuesdays, 2.15 pm. Thursdays Rainbows (Term-time) 5.00pm Fridays (Term-time) St Andrew's Baby and Toddler Group, 10.00 am – 11.45 am, £2 per family, includes refreshments. Play, crafts, chat and singing time.
Taizé service Based on the calm, contemplative practice of prayer from the Taizé community in France, this is a beautiful, quiet service of reflection on the 2nd Sunday of each month at 6pm. It is a great way to carve out an hour for yourself in the busyness of the week, spending time together in quiet, candlelit prayer.
Saturday Messy Church 13th January 3.30pm – 5.15pm. Crafts, fun and food for all the family. Children must be accompanied by a responsible adult at all times
Social and Church Groups
January Events Quiz: Sunday 27 January 7.00 pm, £2 per person. Soft drinks available, plus a raffle and prizes! Please join us!
Our Mothers' Union meets on 2nd Thursday at 2pm in the Coffee Shop. Again, full details on the website.
Brabazon Belles (a social group for women) meet on the first Monday of the month at 7pm in the church hall. Our Open House group meets every Tuesday in the church hall from 9.30 11am for tea, toast, and companionship. Our friendly choir meets for rehearsals every Friday at 7pm in the church.
Sip ‘n’ Chat Coffee Morning Enjoy a cuppa, a cake, and a chat. Thursday 9 November, 10.00 am – 12.00 pm. All welcome, donations accepted.
February Events Sip 'n' Chat Coffee Morning Thursday 8 February, 10.00 am - 12.00. Enjoy a cuppa and a cake – all welcome. Messy Church 10th February 3.30 pm – 5.15 pm, Entry is FREE. Children must accompanied by a responsible adult at all times.
Time to Grieve. Grieving the loss of a loved one? Time to Grieve offers you a space to talk about your loved one with a trained bereavement counsellor and to meet others in a similar situation. 10.30 - 11am on the first Wednesday of every month.
Outside groups also regularly hire our newly refurbished multi-use church.
Community Coffee Shop
Our friendly, welcoming coffee shop is open from Monday to Friday, 10am 1pm for hot and cold drinks, homemade cake and hot snacks and soup. Suggested donation £1.50 per item. We have a wonderful hairdresser in the coffee shop who is happy to cut people's hair in return for a donation to the church. She is usually in the coffee shop on Wednesday mornings if you would like a quick trim. We also offer free soup and a roll to anyone in need of a hot meal. Thursdays from 10am. Why not join us on Toasty Tuesdays from 10am for a hot drink and some toast. You can find more information about all of this, and read our weekly news sheet, by going to www.stpeterschurchfilton. com and if you have any queries, please contact the Rector, or the administrator,
Years 7-13, £2 entry Thursdays: Silver Surfers (over 50s IT support drop-in) 10am-12pm, £3 including refreshments. 1.30-2.30pm Low Impact Fitness session, £3 entry 7-9pm Illuminators social club for adults aged 20+ with social or learning disabilities, £2 entry Fridays: 10am-12pm “Coffee & Chat” coffee morning for anyone who would like to come for refreshments, conversations and join in crafts and games together. Donations welcomed. 1–3pm Creative Writing, Donations welcomed. Contact: FACE, Youth Centre, Elm Park, Filton, BS34 7PS. 0117 9691938 / info@facecharity.org.uk
Girl Guiding Rainbows – age 4 - 7 years - Tuesday 16:45-17:45 & Thursday 17:15 – 18:15 Brownies - age 7 - 10 years - Tuesday 17:45-19:15 Guides - age 10 - 14 years - Tuesday 19:30 – 21:00 Rangers - age 14 - 18 years - Tuesday 19:30 – 21:00 To register your daughter, go to Girlguiding UK website and follow the link 'Register my daughter'
1st Filton Scouts Beavers age 6-8, Tuesday 5:30 – 6:30 & Wednesday 5:45 – 6:45 Cubs age 8-10, Monday and Thursday 6:30 – 8pm Scouts age 10 -14, Tues 7 – 8:45pm
For bookings email: standrewsfilton@ gmail.com. For all other enquiries, please Tel 0117 987 2143.
The group is based in Scout HQ, Nutfield Grove, Filton, BS34 7LJ. All sections are open to boys and girls. Email:joining@1stfiltonscouts.co.uk Website:1stfiltonscouts.co.uk
FACE
Men In Sheds Filton
Mondays: 12.30-1.30pm Tai Chi, £3 entry
The DIY group, which aims to tackle loneliness and isolation among men aged over 50, operates from the Scout hut in Nutfield Grove, providing a space to socialise, build, share skills and drink tea. 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. The group runs every Wednesday, from 9.30am-12.30pm. Call John Cahill 07986053005
7-9pm The Hangout youth club for young people aged 13-25, with social or learning disabilities, £2 entry Tuesdays: 10am-12pm Coffee Club (tea & coffee morning for older folk), donations welcomed 5.30-6.30pm Rise youth club for School Years 3 & 4, £2 entry 7-8.30pm Shine youth club for School Years 5 & 6, £2 entry Wednesdays: 2.30-3.30pm first Wednesday of each month, Goldies Sing & Smile sing-a-long sessions. £3 donation to Goldies. 7-9pm Outbreak youth club for School
SHE7 Tuesday: Bingo 7.30pm - 9.00pm Wednesday: Over 50s lunch, Cooked lunch, pudding and tea/coffee for just £3.50. Please ring 0117 969 5130 to book and arrive by 12.15pm. (Temporarily Closed)
Wednesday: Bristol Taiko - Japanese Drumming 7.00pm - 8:30pm, £5 per session
International Plastic Modellers Society Avon Meetings are held on the 3rd Wednesday in the month from 7:30pm for 8.00pm at: BAWA Healthcare & Leisure, 589 Southmead Rd, Filton, Bristol BS34 7RG. Contact the club at: ipmsavon@gmail.com
Bristol Autism Support Grandparents Coffee Morning Friday 2nd February at the Barracco Lounge 10:00 – 11:00
Ukulele Filton We are an enthusiastic group of ukulele players, who meet to strum along and sing on Monday evenings, at 7.30 pm. We will be at St Andrew’s Methodist Church, Elm Park. New members are very welcome to join us there. No previous experience needed. We have spare ukes for you to try, and plenty of help in getting you started. For further details, phone Sue on: 07504561 831
Bristol Scrabble Club
Bristol Scrabble Club meets every Wednesday evening from 7pm until 10pm at the Filton Community Centre. Elm Park Filton BS347PS. New members are welcome and first visit is free so come along and give us a try. For more information ring Sheila Hinett 01179570792 or 07435316458. Alternatively email shinett@blueyonder. co.uk.
Bristol Sugarcraft Guild We are a small friendly group who meet every third Saturday of the month 2pm to 4pm at St Andrews Church, Elm Park, Filton. If you would like to learn to make sugar flowers and models we hold demonstrations and also workshops with instruction. Beginners are very welcome. Please call Jean Kington on 01454 314178 or Carole Hyams on 0117 956 8037 for more information.
Horfield Townswomen’s Guild We will be meeting at St Andrew's Church Hall on the 2nd Wednesday afternoon of each month (except August) at 2pm to 4pm. We welcome new members. For more information, please contact Edna on 9495413.
Community Garden Gardening Get-togethers continue on
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February, 2024
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What's on in Filton ... email shane@filtonvoice.co.uk International Women’s Day Celebration Connect and celebrate with women and communities across Bristol, Saturday 2 March 2024, Bristol City Hall, 10am – 5pm. Over 50 workshops, all welcome, free transport, creche, interpreting and accessibility support available. For more information go to: www.bristolwomensvoice. org.uk or email info@ bristolwomensvoice.org.uk alternate Saturdays 11am to 1pm February 3rd and 17th March 2nd and 16th All abilities welcome. Wear suitable clothing and bring your own gloves. Tools and guidance provided. For updates and more info visit facebook.com/filtoncommunitygarden or email communitygarden@ filtontowncouncil.gov.uk
Filtones Afternoon Choir Our long-established mixed voice choir is looking to recruit new members in 2024. Adults of all ages, and all voice ranges are welcome from soprano to bass. We meet every Wednesday afternoon from 1.45-3.45 p.m. at the St Teresa’s Community Rooms, (behind the church) at 71 Gloucester Rd North BS34 7PL Come along and try us out for four weeks free, with no audition and no commitment. We hope you may then like us enough to want to stay and join our happy band of singers. We sing an eclectic mix of songs from musicals to spirituals and pop, so there is something to please everyone. We are a very friendly bunch so please give us a try – what’s there to lose and you might find yourself with an absorbing new hobby and lots of new friends in the process. For further information please ring Dot on 07870 984760 or go to our website www. thefiltones.co.uk We look forward to meeting you.
Ebenezer Church Sundays Sunday Service 10.30AM – 12PM Wednesdays Footprints – Senior Citizens Community Group 2PM – 3.30PM Thursdays Taste Café 10.30AM – 12.30PM (Term time only) Foodbank Outlet 1PM – 3PM If you are at crisis point and struggling with food, then please contact the foodbank about getting support. Call 0117 472 5172 Fridays Community Breakfast 9AM – 10.30AM Simple breakfast of bacon butty, cereal
toast and hot drinks for £1.50 Toys available for pre-school children. After School Hangout 3.30PM – 5PM (Every two weeks during term time) Different zones with crafts, games books, homework space and a free meal.) For families with primary school aged children.
One Off Events for February at Ebenezer Church
Community Pancake Party Tuesday 13th February 5:30 – 7pm Everyone welcome to enjoy pancakes and sweet fillings. Also other pancakerelated fun for all ages. Free entrance. The Alpha Course Alpha brings together people from all walks of life who are curious about faith. Each session starts with some time to eat, followed by a short video and then group conversations that freely explore the basics of the Christian faith in an open, friendly environment. Everyone’s welcome. Daytime Alpha - Thursday 1st February at 10.30am-12pm Evening Alpha - Tuesday 20th February at 7-9pm Details and sign up here - www.ebe.org. uk/alpha For more information about Ebenezer Church visit www.ebe.or.uk or call the church office on 0117 9791399
Concord Wind Band We are a friendly, mixed ability band, playing music for fun. We rehearse at the Beechwood Club, Beechwood Rd, Fishponds, Bristol. BS16 3T every Friday 7.30pm to 9.30pm, with a tea break. We welcome new members. Contact Jayne on 07880724948
Filton Bookworms Are you interested in joining a reading group? Come along to the Bookworms monthly reading group at Filton Library! 1st Monday of each month 5:45pm -6:45pm If you are interested in Joining, please as inside the library. Phone: 01454 868006 or Email: Filton.library@ southglos.gov.uk
North Avon Speakers Club We are a public speaking group associated with Toastmasters International. We usually meet every first and third Thursday of the month at BAWA Filton, 7:15pm to 9:30pm. We have prepared speeches, but also Table Topics, which are a fun way to help members and guests practice impromptu speaking. Our speeches and table topics, usually get evaluated afterwards by members of the club, in the meeting itself, so that we can all improve at our public speaking skills! After our meetings some members and guests usually also go to the nearby lounge/bar at BAWA. Please email northavontm@gmail.com for more information.
Filton Garden Club We meet at 7.30pm on the first Wednesday of every month, (except January). We are a very friendly club & welcome new members. If you enjoy interesting talks and slideshows on various aspects of gardens, plants etc., and day trips to gardens of interest, please come along & join us. We meet at St. Andrew's Church, BS34 7PS
Dance Moves Keep Fit Tuesday, 2-3pm at St Peter's Church Filton. Have fun whilst improving your general wellbeing. Suitable for all ages. For further information, contact Eileen Scott, Tel. 07969929733/ email scottyartois@hotmail.com
Short Mat Bowls We are a friendly group that meets Thursdays 1:45pm to 4pm at the Filton Community centre, Elm Park Filton, BS34 7PS. New members are welcome, and the first visit is free, then each session £3. Contact Alan Riley on 07957295287 or email alanriley73@gmail.com
Keep Fit Class @ St Teresa’s Social Centre Want to stay active and improve your well-being? Why not try your local exercise class at St Teresa's Social Centre in Filton on Mondays 7.15pm to 8.15pm. Work at your own level. All abilities welcome.
Royal Air Forces Association – Bristol Branch Every 2nd Wednesday of the month we run Veterans lunch at our club, The lunch is for veterans of all services and widows of Service men. Come and meet like-minded others for companionship and make new friends. If help is needed we can point you in the right direction. Open from 12pm, lunch is at 1pm until 3pm. The price is £7 for two courses. Address 38 Eastfield, Westbury On Trym, BS9 4BE Please ring 0117 0470775 to book.
Filton Historical Group Programme of Talks – Autumn 2023 to Spring 2024 Wednesday 28 February - 7.30 pm ''The Myths & Legends of Sabrina, Goddess of the River Severn' - Nicola Haasz 'Lothlorian' Wednesday 27 March - 7.30 pm 'From Brunel to HST and Beyond' - Roy Ackerill Wednesday 24 April – 7.30 pm 'The Victorian Fight Against Filth' - John Stennard These talks will be held in St. Andrews Church, Elm Park, Filton. All talks will start at 7.30 pm. There is plenty of free parking available in the adjacent Church car park. Those who wish only to come to selected talks will be asked to pay £5 per session. Please pass the information on these talks to anyone you feel might be interested. We welcome all comers, especially new members. Tel: 0117-9424378 e-mail: alansnook@blueyonder.co.uk
Filton Pétanque Club Come and try a game of Pétanque - the French game of boules. No equipment needed initially, just wear flat, trainertype shoes, and dress for the weather. Wednesday evenings at 7.00pm. Sunday mornings at 10.30am. Venue: the boule piste, Elm Park, next to the community garden. https://filtonpetanqueclub.my-free. website
Northavon Singers Northavon Singers would like to welcome more singers to their four-part all-age (18+) choir. Rehearsals are weekly at St Peter’s Church Hall, Filton, every Wednesday at 7.30 pm –9.30 pm We sing concerts in local churches and visit South Gloucestershire care homes during the year with all sorts of music from swing to classical. We would love to see Bassists and / or Tenors (willing to have a rehearsal) come along and see if they like us! Come and join us! margarettaplin@blueyonder.co.uk or phone 0117 9699206
ST ANDREW’S METHODIST CHURCH, ELM PARK, FILTON ** Children must be th SATURDAY 10 FEB 2024 3.30–5.15pm Crafts, fun and food for all the family Come and join us. Entry is FREE! ** Children must be accompanied by a responsible adult at all times **
Got a story or any other inquiry? Call Richard on 0777 555 0607 or email richard@filtonvoice.co.uk
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News 'Support our essentials campaign – it will help reduce the need for food banks' Food banks across Bristol and South Gloucestershire are seeing a drastic increase in people using their service, and are calling on Filtonvoice readers to back a campaign for Universal Credit to cover life essentials. A spokesperson for local food banks said: “Our food banks are seeing the highest level of need since we opened 12 years ago. “Universal Credit should offer support to anyone in need of help, but here in Filton and the surrounding areas, we’re seeing more and more people pushed to our doors
The local food bank team
because Universal Credit doesn’t cover the cost of life’s essentials, such as food and bills.” A petition calling on the government to implement an Essentials Guarantee as part of the Universal Credit scheme, has been launched by the Trussell Trust, which runs the UK’s network of food banks, and the Joseph Rowntree Foundation. The spokesperson added: “We need people like you to take action. You see firsthand how low levels of social security affect people in our community. “We truly believe that taking action will seriously lower the number of people needing to use our food banks.” A visitor to the St Barnabas (BS4) foodbank said: “[The foodbank] has been my lifeline, I don’t know what I would do without all of you.” The petition can be signed here: www. trusselltrust.org/get-involved/campaigns/ guarantee-our-essentials/ Your local Trussell Trust food bank (Horfield Outlet) is open weekly at Ebenezer Church (286 Filton Avenue, BS7 0BA) to support members of the community who need our help. The food bank operates using a referral system. To find out more or to help support our work check out our website: nbsg.foodbank.org.uk/
With NHS dentists hard to find, local people are rightly concerned about their mouth health. But there might be an alternative. In her regular series of columns, Sarah-Joy Lendon, the 'Virtual Hygienist', offers tips on how you can take steps yourself to reduce your need to visit the dentist
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Choosing the right toothbrush for you
Electric toothbrush vs manual toothbrush – which is best?
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hoosing the correct toothbrush can be a little overwhelming when there are so many options available. Should you use an electric or a manual? And if you opt for an electric, which is the best one? There are so many available, all of which claim to be the best! My advice is to go for the one you like most, but very importantly make sure you learn how to use it properly – you could have the best toothbrush in the world, but if you are not using it correctly, it will be a complete waste of money. If you are going for an electric toothbrush (which are great by the way), go for one that is rechargeable, has a round oscillating head and a pressure sensor. There are many different models available that fit these criteria, so if you need help before making that investment, or if you need help with how to use your brush properly, I offer online video appointments and regularly post about electric toothbrushes in my free Facebook group. Sarah-Joy Lendon The Virtual Hygienist
February, 2024
Join the Free Facebook Group - The Virtual Hygienist or book an appointment at www.thevirtualhygienist.co.uk/home
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Stones Grass Cutting, Fencing and Decking
For friendly and professional grass cutting services within Bristol. Fully insured for regular/one-off jobs, both domestic and commercial.
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GARDENING SERVICES
To advertise here and online from as little as £15/ month, contact Rich on 0777 555 0607
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
GREAT DEALS FOR ONLINE AS WELL CALL RICH ON 07775550607
At Filton, we are making it easier for you to choose the right golf club Join Filton Golf Club before April 2024 and get up to 14 months for price of 12! New members joining anytime before April 2024, paying the 2024 rate, will enjoy membership from the date of joining
We have various member rates to suit all ages and budgets Full 7 day Membership £1195 Intermediate Age rates starting at only £360 Corp rates starting at £2,100 +VAT
plus many more.... Visitor green fees starting at £18
Contact us now on: 0117 969 4169 admin@filtongolfclub.co.uk or use the QR code Function Room available to hire for all occasions Filton Golf Club, Golf Course Lane, Filton, Bristol, BS34 7QS