Housing Association Bromford say they are confident they can find new homes for all 77 households affected by the decision to bulldoze the 'Views' flats in Filton.
As Filtonvoice revealed last month, want to demolish the four 'buildings, including the commercial units below Church View.
and Stoke View. The retail units include the Post Office, Specsavers, Downs Bakery, Gales Farm Meats and Bristol Blinds.
Filtonvoice understands discussions have begun to offer the retail units temporary accommodation while the demolition takes place.
Bromford said although they haven’t started drawing up plans for the site, they 'are committed to including new retail space as part of the redevelopment of the site'.
There are 77 flats in Church View, Hill View, Cotswold View
The flats suffer from poor energy efficiency which makes them expensive for customers to heat, as well as structural problems which have been responsible for condensation, damp and mould issues. The design of the flats, maisonettes and communal spaces, which cannot be easily altered, is also making flats increasingly difficult to let to new customers, Bromford said.
A Bromford spokesperson said: "Over the past few years we
Turn to Page 5
The family of former Charborough Road Primary pupil Fintan Feltham, who tragically died in Oxford, have released a tribute to him.
Fintan, 18, a student at Reading University and proud member of the Army Cadet Force, was reported missing in Oxford on November 27.
On December 3, officers from Thames Valley Police, with support from Lowland Rescue Oxfordshire, sadly recovered his body from water near Osney Mead, Oxford.
The family tribute read:
Turn to Page 4
Richard Coulter
Editor and publisher 0777 555 0607 | richard@filtonvoice.co.uk
Shane Gibson
Editorial and Advertising sales 0770 674 1200 | shane@filtonvoice.co.uk
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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.
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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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A “thoroughly dishonest” rogue roofer is behind bars after defrauding homeowners –including a 99-year-old – out of £368,000.
Richard Williams, 53, previously of Little Stoke, conned 19 victims – many elderly and vulnerable – from across Bristol, including in Filton and in Horfield.
Williams has been given a six years and four month sentence, along with an indefinite Criminal Behaviour Order, banning him from running a building business.
This follows a previous 14-month prison sentence in January 2020 for fraudulently trading under Platinum Roofing.
In this case, the conman operated under numerous names, including Williams Roofing, Roofability, Roofing Home Service and R&K Property & Building Contractors.
The latest case involved 19 victims aged 31 to 99, who paid Williams over £368,000 between January 2021 and August 2023.
Investigations into Williams began in October 2021 after complaints were issued about his poor workmanship.
Small roof repair jobs would result in the replacement of entire roofs, costing thousands of pounds more, and Williams
would take large deposits upfront, and fail to finish the job.
Williams received numerous warnings from Bristol Trading Standards about his behaviour.
He was advised of a criminal investigation into his conduct, but the rogue roofer continued to ignore the advice – and even committed offences while on bail.
Lee Reynolds, prosecuting, told the court how Williams used typical rogue trader tactics such as pressure techniques and aggressive behaviour.
He was described by many of his victims as being “very friendly”, “trusting”, and a “very good salesman”.
According to chartered surveyor, Tim Davies, most of Willliams’ work did not need doing, or customers were charged excessively.
In one instance, he commented: “The standard of workmanship … is deficient in almost all areas.”
One victim used her life savings as well as various loans to pay for works to her property including a boundary wall, a granny annex and a new roof, which the victim did not want.
She paid Williams almost £155,000 and the surveyor valued the work at less than £5,000.
She said: “The financial strain
is immense … I live like a pauper and must think carefully about every purchase I make.
“I have been consumed with the physical and mental stress and worry over this situation for over two years.
"I realise [Richard] is a liar and clever thief who preys on honest, vulnerable people.”
Another victim, aged 99 at the time of the incident, said: “Mr Williams hit me for six. I was previously a very calm person but now I have become very anxious and worry a lot.”
She said she felt taken advantage of because of her age and living alone.
Another victim lost their hair due to the stress caused by Williams.
Williams initially pleaded not guilty in March 2023 at Bristol Crown Court to the charges brought against him. But once Trading Standards provided further evidence of Williams’ continued offending, he eventually pleaded guilty in
April 2024.
Ms Gohill, defending for Williams, said that the offending cannot be mitigated and commented that what Williams had done was “unforgiveable”.
In sentencing HHJ Patrick said that Williams was a “thoroughly dishonest man” who exploited the elderly and the vulnerable.
Councillor Sean Rhodes, cabinet member responsible for communities at South Gloucestershire Council, said: “Williams has been sent to prison for preying on vulnerable people and carrying out fraudulent work on a large-scale.
“This is a record sentence for South Gloucestershire Council and follows years of hard work by our Trading Standards team.
“The victims in this case have been left in devastating circumstances. Many have not only suffered financial losses but also had to pay additional monies to rectify their properties because of Williams’ actions."
From Page 1
"Fintan was the person who brought energy to the room. Everyone warmed to him.
He had so many positive attributes, cheeky, adventurous, intelligent, practical, resourceful, independent, determined, a great sense of humour and friendly just to name but a few. Most importantly he was loving to everyone he knew.
“We, Fintan’s mum, dad and younger brother are totally heartbroken. Along with his girlfriend, our family members, his many, many friends and everyone else who was part of life.
“Fintan was born and lived in Bristol, before leaving in September to go to Reading University to study Politics and International Relations. He attended Charborough Road
Primary School and Orchard School Bristol. He then went on to study A-levels at City of Bristol College.
“Fintan couldn't wait to join the Army Cadet Force and as soon as he was old enough, which was at the age of 12, he joined a local Bristol detachment. Fintan was passionate about Cadets, and he thrived in that environment.
“Testimony of this, is that he was promoted to Sergeant Major whilst on a cadet exercise at Royal Sandhurst. His first task was to march the squad around the Royal Sandhurst Parade Ground.
“He also had the privilege of being selected to represent the Army Cadet Force at the King’s Coronation and the great honour of marching down The Mall to Buckingham Palace.
“Fintan was very happy to be selected to join The Oxford
University Officer’s Training Corps and have the opportunity to continue to do one of the things he enjoyed most.
“Fintan was keen to see the world. We are glad he went travelling in the summer and visited many European Countries.
“Fintan also qualified as a swim instructor and taught in both Bristol and Reading.
“We are extremely proud of all these achievements in addition to many more.
“We and everyone else who was part of Fintan’s life are totally devastated and finding it extremely hard to comprehend his loss. Not only do we now have a huge hole in our hearts, we will never have the opportunity to see the amazing future he had the potential to fulfil.
“However, we take some comfort from Fintan
accomplishing so much in the last few years which many of us don’t achieve in a full lifetime.”
Detective Inspector George Atkinson, based at Oxford Police Station, said: “Our thoughts remain with Fintan’s family at this difficult time.
“We would like to thank Lowland Rescue Oxfordshire for their support and assistance, as well as members of the public who shared our appeal and helped us in our search.”
"We take some comfort from Fintan accomplishing so much in the last few years which many of us don’t achieve in a full lifetime."
Family statement
From Page 1
have regenerated several hundred of our existing homes. By building relationships with the customers living in those homes and understanding their needs we have successfully found new homes for all of them. We’re talking to families about their housing needs, which will include the size of home they need and where they want to live and will work with them over the months ahead to find them a new home that meets these needs."
"Having made the decision to regenerate the blocks our initial focus is on supporting customers, so they understand what this means and to find them a new home. We know this process can take time, which is why we have told customers now.
Bromford said the timeline will be influenced by planning permission being granted as well as households being relocated.
The spokesperson said: "We will shortly be start carrying out detailed surveys of the site, which will help us
to draw up our regeneration plans. The finalised plans will then need to be submitted to South Gloucestershire Council to gain planning permission."
"We are also not expecting or asking customers to all move at once, but will work with each family over the coming months to find them all a suitable new home. Families will move out of the blocks as and when they have a new home to move into."
Project Manager Jake Rigby said: "Our focus now is to find new homes for all of our customers and over the past couple of weeks we have been holding individual meetings with families to discuss how we can support them to find a new home that meets their needs. We have also been speaking to the businesses about ways we can support them."
There are around 16,000 homes owned by housing associations in South Gloucestershire, of which Bromford own just over 9,000. Last year they built 150 new homes in South Gloucestershire and are on course to build a similar number this year.
Dreams have become a reality after an M&S Food outlet opens at Southmead Hospital.
M&S Food has launched the outlet, which includes a bakery, to replace the former Amigo shop on the ground floor of the Brunel building.
The store, managed by One Retail, officially opened on December 5, with the brand’s much-loved Percy Pig character making a special appearance to welcome customers on the day.
As well as on-site bakery, staff, patients and vistors can purchase fresh fruit and vegetables, snacks, drinks, packaged goods and toiletries.
Glyn Howells, hospital managing director at North Bristol NHS Trust, said: “Bringing M&S to the Southmead
site has been an ambition of the Trust for several years, so we are delighted to have finally made this dream a reality.”
Andy Jones, managing director at One Retail, said:
“We are delighted to open M&S at Southmead Hospital. It’s an excellent facility and we have worked hard to create an environment that is welcoming for NHS staff, patients and visitors. We know it can make a big difference to those at the hospital to have access to good food and drink facilities.”
One Retail invested more than £800,000 into the new site, creating 30 jobs.
Amigo closed on October 14.
M&S Food is open from 7am8pm daily, on the ground floor of the Brunel atrium.
★ Organic manure delivered — Also applied
★ Professional and guarnteed work
★ Brick & Blocklaying
Councillors have agreed to further explore proposals for a project which will see the upgrading and rewilding of parts of Elm Park.
Ideas put forward to Filton Town Council by Conygre ward councillor John Baverstock include upgrading the old playground at the north of the site into a graffiti park and community space.
There are also ambitions to rewild the park by increasing the number of trees to create additional shaded spaces and a woodland area for visitors, and activities such as forest schools.
It is hoped that the rewilding will go some way to enhancing the local ecosystem, as well as improving air quality for local residents.
In addition, the proposals suggest developing a shared harvest area to facilitate growing community fruit and vegetables and educating residents about
growing their own harvest.
The food produced could be supplied to local food banks or charities struggling to meet the demand caused by the cost of living crisis, the plans say.
And the community space – which can be used by local groups – aims to enhance relationships with residents, in bid to tackle social isolation and increase “better cohesion
between different social groups”.
The area to be developed for the project is from the north east of Elm Park, where the A4174 meets Shellard Road, down towards where the road meets Brabazon Road and the existing pump track.
Discussing the benefits of the project, the plans say: "Having space of biodiversity will help with the climate crises and improve the local ecosystem.
"This can have a great impact on air quality and the health of our residents.
"A central hub for growth of local produce not only increases biodiversity of a local area but also allows the residents to have an active part in the construction and maintenance of the area, as well as providing them with good quality locally produced food, with any over-supply being given to local food banks or charities to feed those struggling to meet the current cost of living crisis.
"Creating a community space for local engagement [...] will improve our relationship with local social groups who might otherwise be isolated and ignored.
"Creating a space that welcomes a mix of people from all sections of society will without a doubt create much better cohesion between the different social groups and foster much better understanding.
"As an added bonus several studies have shown that legal areas for graffiti can reduce vandalism in a local area.
"Dedicating an area for rewilding and tree growth makes a statement to the long term commitment of the council and community to keep Filton growing and green.
"A tree is planted by someone who never expects to see it reach its full potential and is a vital legacy to leave for future generations."
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Bristol-based home improvement company, The Window Hub, was named the ‘Best in the South West’ at the recent G24 Awards in London.
The team were narrowly pipped to the ‘Best Installer’ gong, but were able to leave the English capital with a smile on their faces thanks to the ‘Best in the South West’ title.
The winners of G-Awards were announced at a glittering gala dinner at the Park Lane Hotel on November 29.
“Out of 12,500 companies across the UK, we made it to the last six! Best in the South West, narrowly being pipped to the UK title by another family-run independent business in Lancashire,” The Window Hub’s managing director Danny Robb said.
Bristol-based window installation company, The Window Hub, was launched during lockdown in 2020 by seasoned industry professional Danny, who wanted to create a
business that was “built on quality rather than greed”.
From humble beginnings, The Window Hub now operates from a head office and showroom in Staple Hill in Bristol with offices, showrooms and installation depots across the South West.
Danny launched The Window Hub because he wanted to be much more than just a double glazing company.
“We know that choosing new windows and inviting someone into your home can be stressful, so we have introduced as many initiatives as possible to be fair and reasonable in our approach to give our customers the best experience possible,” he said.
“Sales begin and end with treating customers properly. And you know what? It is so easy to be amazing if you don’t cut corners.”
And the Window Hub has the customer reviews to prove it – 90% of reviews for The Window Hub on
Trustpilot are for five stars, with customers celebrating the company’s professionalism, friendliness, tidiness, and attention to detail.
As well as being open and honest,The Window Hub is keen to raise environmental awareness.
“All of our products will help homeowners reduce their energy usage because they are extremely
energy efficient,” Danny said. “We also buy the majority of our products from companies in the South West.
“When we remove old windows and doors, everything is recycled, and we are currently planting a tree for every customer at a wildlife park near where we are based.”
For more information, please visit TheWindowHub.co.uk
By Adam Postans, LDRS reporter
Cost-cutting plans to axe the upkeep of public toilets and playing fields, increase household garden waste collection fees by 17 per cent and hike council tax by more than the current maximum have been announced by South Gloucestershire Council.
The local authority has launched a public consultation into its annual budget proposals amid the prospect of a £16 million black hole in four years.
The council has warned it will mean “pain for local people” and future cuts to services while raising the amount of money it charges to balance the books.
The consultation documents said: “The council has a fundamental budget problem –our costs are increasing at a far greater rate than our income. And there are uncertainties around some funding streams.
“While the authority is currently in a relatively good position financially [...] the next two years’ budgets can be balanced by delivering existing savings plans and by spending the council’s reserves.”
The council said it had prioritised changes that did not impact services for residents and that cuts could be minimised in the short term but that this was only because of difficult decisions taken early on previously and that this approach must continue to avoid serious future cost pressures.
Among the immediate proposals is increasing garden waste collection charges from £60 to £70 – about 17 per cent.
The authority said this would bring it into line with neighbouring councils to cover the service’s “escalating costs”.
It is also asking residents what they think about a possible rise in council tax above the current five per cent cap – including two per cent ring-fenced for social care –that is allowed without a local referendum “should legislation be changed to allow higher increases”.
Each percentage charged gives the council an extra £1.9million, and changes to
council tax would raise by far the most money of any of its 2025/26 budget proposals.
The council will also consider cutting some services currently provided by or with other bodies.
It said it would talk to town and parish councils and the voluntary sector because it was “likely to have to withdraw funding from delivering discretionary services like maintenance of local facilities such as public conveniences, playing fields and other open spaces”.
The authority said: “Until the last few years, we have kept charges for discretionary services much lower than in other parts of the country – and far below the costs of delivering that support.
“However, as our finances have become more constrained, it has felt unfair to continue to subsidise the cost of services like collecting grass cuttings when not everyone has a garden, and to not charge people for parking to allow us to cover the cost of providing and maintaining car parks.
“We have therefore changed our approach to stop subsidising these services so we can prioritise funding towards essential support like social care for the vulnerable.”
Council leader Cllr Maggie Tyrrell said: “We want to be open and honest with you, there are no longer any ‘easy’ savings to be made.
“The difficult decisions we’re talking about will mean pain for local people, for our staff and for the partners we work with.
“We’ll need to look at charging for things that might once have been free, and to look at increasing the cost of some of the services we already charge for. And whilst we may be able to hold off doing so in the shortterm, we will need to make cuts to some services.
“None of these are decisions we want to take, but we must face up to the financial reality.”
The consultation is open until January 8 and is here: https:// budget2025.commonplace.is
Full council will make the final decisions in February.
By Shane Gibson
SHE 7 has been serving Filton and the surrounding areas for almost 90 years. Today it is known as a place for comfort and companionship for over 50s and it provides relief from any form of isolation.
What might not be known by readers is the dynamic history of the charity – formally known as Self Help Enterprise Bristol 7 – and its roots as a decontamination centre.
The building was erected in 1939 as an air raid precautions (ARP) site. Operating 24 hours a day, it serviced the community with a decontamination centre to deal with gas attacks, a reporting centre for organising responses to air raids, a rescue centre, and an auxiliary fire station.
As in other towns, the site at Braemar Crescent offered training and teamwork development teaching skills that were an essential part of the ARP
for those that volunteered for the community supporting services.
Filton’s auxiliary fire service was initially issued with one fire engine. Later the firemen converted a lorry to a fire engine giving them two engines. They were housed in the Nissan Hut which from 1939 to 1947 stood in front of the fire service building to house the two fire engines.
The reporting centre moved to a large house nearby on Gloucester Road North, enabling some of the volunteers who worked, or were at school, to get
SHE 7 in Braemar Road has a 90 year history, serving the local community in Filton
to attend incidents. They were able to make bombed buildings safe, had the skills to extract people from damaged buildings and offer support to those affected.
some sleep but still be available if an incident occurred.
The reporting centre linked phone and radio messages between services in Filton, across the Gloucestershire area and beyond.
In 1939 the phone lines were overhead on extremely high poles and frequently failed in an incident. Few people had private phones at home, so teenage messengers, on their bikes, took written notes to ARP wardens posts and wherever else needed.
The rescue squad used a lorry
When a house was too severely damaged to be lived in, they took householders' furniture away into storage. In addition to their own patch in Filton, they were one of the teams on call to assist during the heavy bombings on London, as well as assisting in Bristol when they had heavy bombing incidents.
As for the de-contamination squad, fortunately, there were no gas episodes in the war, but the squad, were trained to deal with gas, and would have been available had gas attacks occurred.
Royal visit
Queen Mary of Teck visited the site on February 23 1940. She spent ten minutes
inspecting the centre behind its protective barricade of sandbags. Officials were introduced to the Queen and introduced to her the volunteers wearing heavy oilskins and steel helmets, who staffed the decontamination centre. She enquired whether they were paid for their services and when she was told it was entirely voluntary work she remarked, "How splendid."
After the war, the ARP services were no longer required, and the building was acquired by Gloucestershire County Council who opened it as a public library in 1949. Due to size limitations, it did not offer a children’s book section.
Ten years later, the building was deemed too small to be a library.
The Self-Help Enterprise (SHE 7) began in 1965. It was started by Dr Paul Sinclair – originally Schneider – who had a dream of a small leisure centre that could provide small jobs for a small wage. Sinclair believed that this
Queen Mary of Teck visiting the ARP on October 23, 1940. Image: Britton Collection
was a social must. At the time, there was a complete lack of pensions and money in general for men over the age of fifty and so those that could, took up the basket work available in exchange for the small payment of a few shillings.
Sinclair came to realise that there was a greater need for more facilities that would promote social and emotional engagement – particularly in men who had
lost their wives for whom he began a luncheon club.
The lunch would be three courses including a hot main, a dessert, a cheese course as well as tea and coffee.
As part of the service, the ladies who worked in the adjoining Post Office would offer recipes to encourage the men to cook for themselves when at home.
Currently SHE 7 is managed by Annette Clarke, who also acts as vice chair.
Annette took on the role in May of 2018. Inspired by longtime manager Ruth Perkins who retired in 2016 at the age of ninety-five, and refusing to let the centre close, Annette led the way in overcoming financial failings made by the former interim leadership.
Over the years the centre has seen many changes, but the lunch club for over fifties continues on Wednesdays. At the cost of £4, a hot mains, a dessert, tea, and coffee are still provided
as it was five decades ago.
Speaking with Annette she explained that whilst the number of attendees is not as high as she would like, the service is still very much needed today as it was when it started.
She said: “We regularly see up to twenty people attending the lunches, ages between 76 and 97.
"I can see that the people that are able to come are grateful to be able to get out of the house and come here.
"We also continue to run the bingo club each week. What was started years ago has become an institution and I refused to let it close after the many years of work put in by Ruth Perkins and others.”
She added: “We have found that people don’t really know what we are or what goes on inside. Once they come in, they get it. There is also a lack of cheap transport to help those who cannot come unaided.
"But what we really need is more volunteers. To be able to offer craft and coffee mornings would be fantastic.”
History teacher Ben Dewfall is the latest member to join Filton Town Council.
He was co-opted on to the council at a meeting in November.
Cllr Dewfall, representing Labour, said he wanted to give something back to the community as his family is from Filton and his grandfather was part of the team which built Concorde.
He will be one of five councillors representing Northville ward.
BASED AT THE TOWN COUNCIL OFFICE, ELM PARK, FILTON BS34 7PS
REPORTING TO: TOWN CLERK
Filton Town Council is seeking a motivated and experienced individual to join our team as Deputy Clerk. This is a fantastic opportunity to play a vital role in supporting the Town Clerk and contributing to the efficient administration and development of council services.
Key Details:
• Salary: Scale 29-32 (£38,626 - £41,511)
• Hours: 37 hours per week (plus evening Council meetings)
About the Role
The Deputy Clerk will support the Town Clerk in the management and administration of the Council’s affairs, deputising in their absence. The role encompasses responsibilities in governance, finance, project management, and community engagement.
Key duties include:
• Overseeing and improving Council services and operations.
• Supporting corporate governance, risk management, and democratic services.
• Managing Council assets and liaising with tenants.
• Preparing reports, agendas, and minutes for Council meetings.
• Administering financial systems and ensuring compliance with regulations.
The successful candidate will have experience in a similar role, possess excellent organisational and communication skills, and demonstrate an ability to manage workloads effectively. Knowledge of local government operations and the C.I.L.C.A qualification (or working towards it) is desirable.
How to Apply
For the full job description and application form, please visit the Filton Town Council website. The closing date for applications is 3rd January 2025
For further information about the role, please contact Simon Davies, Town Clerk, on 01454 803918 or email town.clerk@filtontowncouncil.gov.uk
Join us in making a difference in our community!
Tell us your name and role
Simon Davies, Town Clerk
What does the town clerk do?
A Town Clerk is the person who brings together the aspirations of Councillors to provide services to the community; via projects, policies and working with other organisations such as South Gloucestershire Council and the many community groups.
What did you do before this role?
I have worked as a Parish Clerk before in Somerset - and recently returned from a 2.5 year mobilisation with the Royal Navy in Bahrain, as I'm a Petty Officer in the Royal Naval Reserves (based in HMS Flying Fox, Bristol).
What are the priorities for Filton Town Council?
To deliver quality local services and develop facilities at Elm Park.
Anything else to add?
Local Councils are all about their communities, so I welcome residents to attend our meetings online or in person. If anyone in Filton has any queries, or ideas about local services - please contact me on either 01454 803918 or town.clerk@ filtontowncouncil.gov.uk.
Two new key public information and help pages have been launched on the town council website.
https://filtontowncouncil.gov.uk/report-it/ Highways & Pathways
Here, if you have a concern or spot a problem within Filton, tell us so we can look into it and take action.
As a Council, we may be able to help with flytipping, graffiti, litter, leaves blocking a path, dog fouling, spillage, or other similar concerns.
If it is any other matter, please use the South Gloucestershire Council ‘Report it’ form: https:// beta.southglos.gov.uk/report/
If we are not able to sort your matter reported, we will forward your information (including your contact details) to South Gloucestershire Council.
https://filtontowncouncil.gov.uk/information/ public-highway-pathway-updates/ This page gives updates of new information regarding roadworks, paths - for example diversion routes and timescales for works.
If you have any feedback on this, please get in touch with Simon Davies, town clerk, town.clerk@filtontowncouncil.gov.uk
14th, 7pm, Full Council Finance & General Purposes
Active Nation Filton, Studio 1 21st, 7pm, Planning Committee
Active Nation Filton, FTC Council room 28th, 7pm, Full Council
Active Nation Filton, Studio 1
Town Clerk
Simon Davies
Visit
The Council Office is open to the public Monday to Friday 9am – 4pm, and is located at Elm Park, Filton, BS34 7PS. Call 01454 803918
Town Clerk - town.clerk@filtontowncouncil.gov.uk
General Enquiries – office@filtontowncouncil.gov.uk Website
www.filtontowncouncil.gov.uk
I HOPE you and your loved ones have been enjoying the Christmas period and making plans for 2025.
It has been lovely to see so many of you at Christmas lights events and markets – thank you to all involved in putting these on.
It’s also been good to sit down with some of you at my latest local advice surgeries.
While it has only been a few short months since the election, I’ve been working hard to make every day count in serving you, doing politics differently and playing my part in
making change happen that matters here.
In the last few weeks alone, the government has been able to: commit almost £15 million in improving our buses here in the West of England; start to bring our railways back into public ownership, beginning with South West Railways; increase police funding, including a Neighbourhood Policing Guarantee; set up free breakfast clubs in schools, with 750 early adopters starting from April.
In recent weeks, I’ve met with the Housing Minister to discuss HMOs and the challenges that we’re seeing locally in approaches to conversion.
I’ve asked the Foreign Secretary a wide range of questions about the impact of the last government’s cuts on Britain’s standing on the world stage, and on climate leadership, and work being done to repair this.
I’ve also been appointed to support the ministerial team at the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs. I know these are issues that matter to us locally and am looking forward to working hard at a national level to clean up our rivers, lakes and seas, boost nature again and more.
It was an emotional day in Westminster for the vote on the Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill. After deep consideration, going through the Bill line-by-line and listening to many local people with a range of views, I voted to support this Bill proceeding for further scrutiny and
consideration.
When this returns to the Commons, my final vote will come down to the specifics of the Bill.
Thank you to everyone who has been in touch, and I welcome any further views – I have a survey on my website, with a detailed video about my first vote, too, at tinyurl. com/2n234p2t.
Thanks to brilliant support from Independent Age, my team and local volunteers have held local Pension Credit sign-up sessions across our community, supporting people to receive support they’re entitled to.
I also held my first regular ‘Coffee with Claire’ event, in Emersons Green. These are informal events I’ve set up to bring people together locally to discuss how we can make ours an even better place to live.
It was hard but I’m so glad we had that conversation.
It was hard but I’m so glad we had that conversation.
I will be holding similar events across the constituency, so if you’re interested in joining, please sign up for updates at tinyurl. com/245k44k7.
Together we planned a proper send off for mum, a whole morning to celebrate her life with the music and poetry she loved. In a peaceful natural setting where our family and friends had plenty of time and space to share stories and memories.
Together we planned a proper send off for mum, a whole morning to celebrate her life with the music and poetry she loved. In a peaceful natural setting where our family and friends had plenty of time and space to share stories and memories.
As always, please do get in touch if there’s anything I can help you with, at claire.hazelgrove.mp@parliament.uk.
It was hard but I’m so glad we had that conversation.
Maria, Bristol
Together we planned a proper send off for Mum, a whole morning to celebrate her life with the music and poetry she loved. In a peaceful natural setting where our family and friends had plenty of time and space to share stories and memories
The Shield Retail Centre Change of use of the first-floor residential space ancillary to the previous restaurant use, to a storage space ancillary to the future use of the ground floor (Class E), as defined in the Town and Country Planning (Use Classes) Order 1987 (as amended).
39 Northville Road
Raising of garage roofline to faciliate conversion into 1no. additional bedroom for existing house in multiple occupation (HMO) to allow a flexible use as a large HMO for up to 9 people (sui generis), or as a dwellinghouse for people living together as a single household and receiving care.
ZEROe Development Centre
Liquid Hydrogen Testing Facility Application for consent under The Planning (Hazardous Substances)
Regulations 2015 for the storage of liquid hydrogen.
Abbey Wood Retail Park Discharge of condition 17 (BREEAM) attached to Planning Permission P20/08495/F. Erection of hotel (Class C1) and food and beverage retail unit (Class A1) with parking, access, landscaping and associated works.
8 Charlton Avenue Discharge of condition 8 (Drainage) attached to Planning Permission P22/03056/F. Erection of 5 detached dwellings with new access and associated works.
32 Mortimer Road Change of use from dwelling (Class C3) to a 6no person house in multiple occupation (HMO) (Use Class C4) as defined in the Town and Country Planning (Use Classes) Order 1987
(as amended) resubmission of P24/01619/F. Refusal
Former Filton Airfield Erection of 1 no. substation. Approve with Conditions
9 Wades Road Erection of single storey rear extension to provide additional living accommodation. Erection of front porch. Approve with Conditions
32 Mortimer Road Installation of 1no. rear dormer and the installation of 2 skylights on the front roof slope. Approve Certificate of Lawfulness
Site Off Of Golf Course Lane
Variation of conditions 2 (plan list), 16 (D&A) and 21 (Travel plan) attached to planning approval P23/03353/F (Demolition of existing buildings and the erection of new buildings, extensions and a multi-storey car park to redevelop and enhance the research and design facility, together with
landscaping, surface parking, access and associated works) to increase the quantum of parking through further expansion of the MSCP (car park facility). Approve with Conditions
650 Filton Avenue
Change of use from small dwellinghouse in multiple occupation for 6 people, (Class C4) to a large dwelling house in multiple occupation for up to 8 people (sui generis), to include the creation of 2 bedrooms within the existing rear garage, as defined in the Town and Country Planning (Use Classes) Order 1987 (as amended). Approve with Conditions
To view further details of the listed planning applications or to get up-to-date with the latest applications in Filton, visit: developments. southglos.gov.uk
24/7 nurse cover. 24/7 nurse cover. In-house physiotherapist. In-house physiotherapist.
Idyllic garden & grounds. Idyllic garden & grounds. Constant redecoration project Constant redecoration project
Automated care plan system. Automated care plan system.
Wheelchair cars available for all. Wheelchair cars available for all.
Great daily activities. Great daily activities.
Nutritious fresh meals. Nutritious fresh meals. And much, much more. And much, much more. Your Home Away
Great British Bake Off winner Candice Brown is the queen of flavoursome cravings, as this belter of a bread and butter pudding proves.
1. To make the custard, heat the milk, 500ml cream and vanilla bean paste in a saucepan over a medium heat.
2. Put the eggs, yolk and light soft brown sugar in a bowl and mix until the mixture starts to turn pale.
3. When the milk and cream mixture is just about simmering, pour it into the eggs and sugar in one steady stream, whisking constantly. Return the mixture to the saucepan over a low heat, mixing constantly until the custard starts to thicken very slightly.
4. Mix together the espresso and the Tia Maria and soak the sponge fingers in the mix.
5. Spread the butter over the sliced bread and cut each slice in half to form two triangles. Now grease a 30x25cm ovenproof dish with butter and add a row of bread triangles followed by a row of the coffeesoaked sponge fingers and so on, so you have a dish full of
alternating rows of bread and sponge fingers. Sprinkle over the chocolate chips, then pour over the custard.
If the custard has thickened up too much, you can mix in some more milk. Give the bread a little bit of a push down so the custard gets in between all the layers. Set aside for 1 hour to allow it to really soak in.
6. Preheat the oven to 160°C fan (180°C/Gas Mark 4). Sprinkle over the demerara sugar and bake for 25–30 minutes until golden brown and bubbling.
7. Remove from the oven and set aside for 10 minutes while you make the cream. Put the mascarpone, cream and Baileys in a bowl and mix together until you have a thick dropping consistency.
8. Serve topped with a dollop of the Baileys cream, if you like.
(Serves six)
• 500ml whole milk
• 500ml double cream
• 1 tsp vanilla bean paste
• 2 eggs, plus 1 egg yolk
• 30g light soft brown sugar
• 250ml triple shot espresso
• 100ml Tia Maria
• 175g sponge fingers (ladyfingers)
• 50g unsalted butter, softened, plus extra for greasing
• 1 small loaf of sliced white bread
• 100g dark chocolate chips
• 25g demerara sugar
• 30g cocoa powder
Baileys cream (optional):
• 250g mascarpone
• 400ml double cream
• 50ml Baileys
He’s a magnificent broadcaster, gifted gardener, brilliant author and all-round horticultural visionary. This month, Alan Titchmarsh talks about what’s in his gardening wardrobe, and if New Year is the best time to update…
As the seasons change, so does the gardener’s wardrobe and I’ll admit, mine has evolved over the years. Gone are the days when I’d be spotted in those trusty old jeans – oh, how I miss them.
While I’ve retired the old denim, I’ve found a solid alternative in a pair of durable, comfortable chinos. They strike the right balance between being rugged enough for kneeling, and presentable enough to pop into town for a few packets of seeds afterwards.
A good pair of trousers is essential; they need to handle all the dirt and damp but still wash up well for the next round.
On my upper body, my go-to piece is a fleece gilet in a lovely ‘duck egg’ shade. It’s just the ticket for those cooler moments when you don’t need a heavy sweater, particularly during the unpredictable British weather, which can surprise you at any time of the year.
support, especially when navigating uneven ground, and they don’t get too hot in the sun.
We’ve had mild winters and freezing ones, but planning ahead for chilly summers is wise, too. There’s something about having a practical yet stylish gilet that just works in the garden. It gives you that extra layer of warmth without restricting movement, not least when you’re bending over to plant, prune or pull weeds.
On my feet, it’s always been about finding the right boots. I’m a fan of a sturdy, waterproof pair that can stand up to muddy garden beds and unexpected downpours, but beyond that the style, colour or brand doesn’t really faze me. All I know is I’m made acutely aware when I’m not wearing them, by that terrifying sensation of a slightly soggy toe!
For the drier months, I opt for lightweight hiking boots. These give a bit more about I’m
With the new year now in full bloom, it’s the perfect time to take stock of your gardening wardrobe. Maybe that old jumper has seen better days, or your gloves are more hole than fabric.
Refreshing your kit is as much about practicality as it is comfort. After all, you spend hours in the garden, so why not feel good while doing it? A few well-chosen additions can make the world of difference to yourself and then, by association, to your garden!
Sunday 22 December 8.30am and 10am Eucharist; and 6pm Penitential Service
Tuesday 24 December, Christmas Eve 5pm Family Christingle; and 11pm Midnight Mass
Wednesday 25 December, Christmas Day 10am Eucharist
Thursday 26 December Boxing Day 11am Eucharist
Sunday 29 December 10am Eucharist and 6pm Evensong with Benediction
Sunday 5 January 10am Eucharist to celebrate the Epiphany
Sunday 12 January 8.30am and 10am Eucharist, and 6pm Taizé * in the Lady Chapel
Sunday 19 January 8.30am and 10am Family Eucharist
Sunday 26 January 8.30am and 10am Eucharist
Midweek Said Eucharists are on Wednesdays at 7pm and Thursdays at 11am. However, as we are currently in vacancy, midweek services may be cancelled at short notice. Please check our news sheet and Facebook page for up to date information about midweek services.
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.
Our Mothers' Union meets on 2nd Thursday at 2pm in the Coffee Shop. Again, full details on the website.
on the FIRST Friday of every MONTH (NO dance in August or January)
It’s the ideal night out for the 30-60 age range. Come dance and socialise amongst a friendly, lively crowd. Dancing Thru’ the Decades includes Motown, Soul, Club Classics… Music you can relate to. Club times are 9 ‘til 1. Last entry 11pm – very smart casual. No t-shirts or trainers and gents required to wear collared shirts. Entry: £8. www.mingles.co.uk. Facebook: @Luv2mingle
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 9.3011am for tea, toast, and companionship. Our friendly choir meets for rehearsals every Friday at 7pm in the church.
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 in the Coffee Shop.
Our friendly, welcoming coffee shop is open from Monday to Thursday, 10am1pm 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 but do pop in to confirm her availability. Why not join us on Toasty Tuesdays from 10am for a hot drink and some toast. We usually have donations of bakery items to give to those in need on Mondays from 10am. All for a small donation.
You can find more information at www. stpeterschurchfilton.com and if you have any queries, please contact wardens. stpeterschurchfilton@gmail.com or faith. stpeterschurchfilton@gmail.com
Regular Services
Sundays
Morning Service 10.30 am. Little Lights (for children whose parent(s)/ carer(s) are attending worship). Please join us! You are assured of a warm welcome.
Tuesdays
Wesley Guild - meets alternate Tuesdays at 2.15 pm. All welcome. January meetings are on the 7th and the 21st.
Thursdays
Rainbows (term-time) 5.15 pm.
Fridays
St Andrews Baby and Toddler Group, term-time, 10.00 am - 11.45 am, £ 2.00 per family, includes refreshments. Play, crafts, chat, and singing time.
Messy Church: Meets on the 2nd Saturday of the month, 3.30 pm5.15pm. Next meeting is 11th January. Crafts, fun and food for all the family. Children must be accompanied by a responsible adult at all times. This event is free.
Sip 'n' Chat Coffee morning: Thursday 9th January, 10.00 am - 12.00 noon. Enjoy a cuppa, a cake and a chat - all welcome.
Hire of Church: Outside groups also
Tom’s Slimming World group will be held at Greenway Centre, Southmead, BS10 5PY every Tuesday at 5:30pm & 7:00pm from Tuesday 11th June 2024. For more information or to join Tom’s group call him on 07920779270.
regularly hire our newly refurbished multi-use church.
For bookings email: standrewsfilton@ gmail.com. For all other enquiries, please visit our website, standrewsfilton.org.uk
Mondays:
12.30-1.30pm Tai Chi, £3 entry
7-9pm The Hangout youth club for young people aged 13-25, with social or learning disabilities, £2 entry Tuesdays:
10am-12pm Coffee Club (tea & coffee morning 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:
7-9pm Outbreak youth club for School Years 7-13, £2 entry Thursdays:
No Silver Surfers during August. Will return September 5th
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.
6-8pm, monthly Social Club for 8-13s with social or learning disabilities, 3rd Friday of each month
Contact: FACE, Youth Centre, Elm Park, Filton, BS34 7PS. 0117 9691938 / info@facecharity.org.uk
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'
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
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
The DIY group, which aims to tackle loneliness and isolation among men aged over 50, operates from the Scout hut in Nutfield Grove, providing a space to socialise, build, share skills and drink tea. The group runs every Wednesday, from 9.30am-12.30pm. Call John Cahill 07986053005
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.
Wednesday: Bristol Taiko - Japanese Drumming 7.00pm - 8:30pm, £5 per session
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
We are an enthusiastic group of ukulele players, who love to strum and sing every Monday evening in Filton. We meet at St Andrew’s Methodist Church, Elm Park, from 7.45 to 9.15 pm. We are always pleased to welcome new members. We have spare ukuleles for you to try, and plenty of help to get you started. For further details, phone Sue on: 07504561831.
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.
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.
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.
Gardening Get-togethers continue on alternate Saturdays 11am to 1pm Join the friendly volunteers and help keep the garden looking great for all to enjoy. All abilities welcome, just turn up on the day wearing suitable clothing and bring your own gloves. Tools and guidance provided.
January
Saturday 4 January
Saturday 18 January
February
Saturday 1 February
Saturday 15 February
Special events: Christmas singalong Monday 23 December, 11am
Celebrate the season with us at our festive singalong, featuring Christmas classics and carols. Afterwards, enjoy delicious mince pies, mini rolls, and a cup of hot chocolate!
For updates and more info visit facebook.com/filtoncommunitygarden or email communitygarden@ filtontowncouncil.gov.uk
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. For further info. contact 07870 984760 or visit www.thefiltones. co.uk
Sunday Service 10.30AM – 12PM
Wednesdays – Footprints 2PM – 3.30PM Group for Senior Citizens in our local community, with meals, activities and special events.
Thursdays
Tast Café 10.30PM - 12.30PM (During term time)
Drop-in community café with affordable homemade cakes and lunches etc.
Kintsugi Help Wellbeing Group 10.45AM – 12.30PM
This group will last for 6 Thursday mornings and includes a FREE light lunch. For full details and sign up visit the website.
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
The Alpha Course 7PM – 9PM
Alpha brings people together who are curious about the faith. Each session begins with something to eat followed by a short video and then group conversations exploring the basics of the Christian faith. For full details and sign up visit the website.
Fridays
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.
For more information about Ebenezer Church visit www.ebe.or.uk or call the church office on 0117 9791399
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
Come along to the Bookworms monthly reading group at Filton Library! 1st Friday of each month at 2pm. If you are interested in Joining, please as inside the library. Phone: 01454 868006 or Email: Filton.library@southglos.gov.uk
We usually meet every first and third Thursday of the month at BAWA Filton, 7:15pm to 9:30pm. We have prepared speeches, but also Table Topics, which are a fun way to help members and guests practice impromptu speaking. After our meetings some members and guests usually also go to the nearby lounge/bar at BAWA. Please email northavontm@gmail.com for more information.
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
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
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
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.
Every 2nd Wednesday of the month we run Veterans lunch at our club, The lunch is for veterans of all services
and widows of Service men. Open from 12pm, lunch is at 1pm until 3pm. The price is £7 for two courses. Address 38 Eastfield, Westbury On Trym, BS9 4BE. Please ring 0117 0470775 to book.
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
Wednesday 26 February 2025 - 7.30 pm ''The Burdens of Bristol' with Peter Carpenter. These talks will be held in St. Andrews Church, Elm Park, Filton. All talks will start at 7.30 pm. Those who wish only to come to selected talks will be asked to pay £5 per session. Tel: 0117-9424378. E-mail: alansnook@ blueyonder.co.uk
Rehearsals are weekly at St Peter’s Church Hall, Filton, every Wednesday at 7.30 pm –9.30 pm. Come and join us! northavon.singers@outlook.com or phone 0117 9699206
Free maths course for over 19s who do not hold a level 2 maths qualification. Mondays 9:30-11:30am at FACE. Contact Louise Gillett on 07720143 891 or louise.gillett@southglos.gov.uk
Filton Community Garden & FACE invite you to a
Monday, 23 December, 11am Filton Community Garden
Celebrate the season with us at our festive singalong, featuring Christmas classics and carols. Afterwards, enjoy delicious mince pies, mini rolls, and a cup of hot chocolate!
A superstar table tennis player from Filton has made his debut in Germany's top-flight league.
Louis Price, 20, hailed his participation in the Bundesliga "one of the best nights" of his life as he performed in front of a passionate crowd.
Price was in the ASC Grunwettersbach line-up which faced TSV Bad Konigshofen, a team above them in the league table.
He faced Bundesliga legend Bastian Steger and, although he was defeated 3-0, he was delighted to be part of the team which chiselled out a vital 3-2 victory.
The left-hander had an inkling the day before the match that he might feature, with teammates Ricardo Walther and Tiago Apolonia not fully fit.
Price said: "I had it in my head that it was possible and I found out on the morning of the match.
"I wasn’t happy that my
team-mates were injured, but obviously happy to get the chance to play.
"I was really nervous going into it, but the boys gave me some good advice that helped me not get stressed about it and to enjoy the experience.
"Playing against Steger, who’s a Bundesliga legend and has played for so many years, I definitely didn’t play badly."
"It’s a really small hall but
there were 3,400 fans watching and every point I won they were going crazy. To play in that environment was something I’ve never done before."
Price was defeated 11-3, 11-8, 11-6, which made the match score 1-1, after Leo De Nodrest had put the hosts in front by defeating Martin Allegro 3-0.
Guilherme Teodoro restored the home advantage by beating Jin Ueda 3-2, though
Konigshofen levelled again as Steger beat De Nodrest in five. But the crucial doubles was won 3-0 by Grunwettersbach to seal overall victory, moving them up to eighth in the 12-team league.
One further highlight for Price, who has been with the club since 2021, came after the match when he performed his ‘initiation’ in the VIP lounge –singing Neil Diamond’s Sweet Caroline in front of team-mates and supporters.
He said: "It was really fun, I enjoyed it. When you win a match, the hall is crazy and the VIP lounge is crazy celebrating the victory. It’s probably one of the best nights of my life just to see the energy and that you’ve made people so happy."
At the time of going to print, Price was in the squad for the first pool stage of the Europe Cup (formerly ETTU Cup), with Grunwettersbach facing teams from Slovenia, Slovakia and Spain at their home venue.
With NHS dentists hard to find, local people are rightly concerned about their mouth health. But there might be an alternative. In her regular series of columns, Sarah-Joy Lendon, the Filton-based 'Virtual Hygienist', offers tips on how you can take steps yourself to reduce your need to visit the dentist
As we wrap up the end of the year, most likely having overindulged over the holiday season, our minds might be turning to what we want for the new year ahead.
This is often a time where we make lots of promises to ourselves about how we want to live our lives and the changes we want to make. But changing our habits and staying motivated can feel a bit overwhelming and, even with the best will in the world, we can soon
slip back into our old ways.
One way to stay motivated is to focus on the why. Ask yourself what is it you're trying to achieve and why. What overall difference will it make to you if you achieve your goal?
And if better health is one of your goals, perhaps consider what difference a few changes to your home dental care might have on all areas of your life – having a healthy mouth will impact on not just your mouth. Think about the wider benefits too:
• Reduced time and cost in the dental chair as a healthier mouth requires less treatment
• Healthier mouth allowing you to keep your natural teeth for longer
• More confidence when you smile and get close to people
• Better overall health – our mouth, general health and well-being are all very interconnected
So, if you’re looking for ideas on how to improve your dental health
and for ways to keep yourself motivated, come along and join us in The Virtual Hygienist free Facebook group by scanning here:
the group.
Sarah-Joy Lendon, The Virtual Hygienist
and professional grass cutting services within Bristol. Fully insured for regular/one-off jobs, both domestic and commercial. Call 07867 484360 terrystone1964@icloud.com www.trimandstrim.co.uk
Bristol is beaming with pride as Smile Orchard Dental Practice and Implant Centre has been crowned a winner at the prestigious Private Dentistry Awards 2024. This recognition marks a remarkable journey of transformation and excellence under the visionary leadership of Dr. Koushik Naik, an expert in Dental Lasers and Implants.
Smile Orchard has risen to become a beacon of innovation and care. With a strong focus on biological and holistic dental care, the practice combines cuttingedge technology with a patient-first approach to deliver exceptional results.
Dr. Naik and his dedicated team have worked tirelessly to make Smile Orchard a leader in preventive, rehabilitative, and aesthetic dentistry. Their commitment to the community, continuous education, and sustainable healthcare practices has not only improved oral health outcomes but also earned the trust and admiration of patients across Bristol.
This award is a testament to the hard work, innovation, and compassion that define Smile Orchard. It’s a proud moment for the entire city as this local gem shines on a national stage.
For more about Smile Orchard Dental Practice and their services:
Visit: www.smileorchard.co.uk
Email: info@smileorchard.co.uk
Call: 01179 567603
What’s App: 07393 708526
