Filtonvoice May 2024

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May 2024 Issue 151

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PUZZLES AND RECIPES, PAGES 16-17 | TOWN COUNCIL, PAGES 12-13 | WHAT'S ON, PAGES 20-21

Flying the flag

National success for Filton dance group - P4&5

The Filton couple together until the end

by Shane Gibson A husband and wife, who were married for almost seven decades, and lived in the same Filton house for 64 years, have passed away, just two days apart.

Hilda Hennessey died on March 16, followed by her husband Richard only two days later.

Their son Bryan and daughterin-law Alison have put together an account of the couple's lives taken from sources written by Alison and letters (circa 2016 2019) from Hilda and Richard to Bryan.

Hilda was born on August 1, 1931 and spent her childhood living with her three siblings at Ash Road in Bishopston.

Richard was born at Clement Street, in St Pauls on June 29,

Charity celebrates 10 years of service in Filton community Pages 6 and 7

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Contacts Richard Coulter Editor and publisher

0777 555 0607 | richard@filtonvoice.co.uk

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

Shane Gibson Editorial and Advertising sales

0770 674 1200 | shane@filtonvoice.co.uk

News

Hilda and Richard were the love of each other's lives From Page 1

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.

1930. He had seven siblings.

During the war, Hilda was evacuated to Buckland Dinham in Somerset where she lived with Mrs Rabbits and her son Hugh.

Richard and his brother Pat were evacuated to Exmouth but they didn't stay long as they had their belongings stolen by some boys from London.

They made their way to the train station where the station master notified the police and their sister Flo came down to collect them. They remained in Bristol.

In his letters, Richard wrote: “In 1939, war broke out. I was about 11 and we had terrible bombing in Bristol.

“Mum asked if we could use the corporation air raid shelter. As soon as we heard the sirens go off, we would rush to the shelter.

“That night the German planes came over and bombed Bristol, St Clements Church and most of the town shops were demolished and all hell was let loose.

“When the ‘all clear’ went off, Pat and I went outside to look for shrapnel and incendiary bombs.

Castle Street had been gutted.”

Fate would bring Hilda and

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News Richard together on Valentine's Day 1947 at Morris' Dance Hall.

It was at the Jamaica Street venue where Hilda was learning ballroom dancing.

Hilda wrote: “Our dances were the poly slide, tangos of different names, Gay Gordons,

Hilda and Richard on holiday and that's when dad [Richard] saw me dancing with various boys, and he thought, 'she's a bit of alright' and he came over to where we all sat and asked me for a dance.

“He had wavy, fairish hair, lovely teeth and wore a white scarf ... that was the fashion.

Then he walked me home.

“He would wait at the centre after I finished work (he rode his bike) and persuaded me to go out with him.

“He also watched me play table tennis and came to meet me from night school. We must have been made for each other.”

Richard would recount a similar story to Bryan.

“I met your mum when I was seventeen. I thought, she is a bit of a smasher. We sat on one side of the ballroom and the girls on the opposite sides.

“I did pluck up the courage to ask your mum for a dance or many dances and I would walk her home to Ash Road.

And that was the beginning of our extraordinarily long-loving relationship.

We would go to the Hippodrome and sit up in the Gods. We used to walk up the Downs or walk around to St. Andrews Park.

"The premiere picture house was at the bottom of Ash Road, and we went to see a film most weeks.”

Their relationship almost did not get off the ground. During one of their first dates, they were stopped by a policeman

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and charged for riding two on a bicycle and for riding through a halt sign.

They were fined ten shillings each by the magistrate. As a result, Hilda's parents thought Richard was a 'bad 'un'. When the couple decided to become serious, Richard gave up football, and Hilda her dancing.

Hilda wrote: “We got engaged when I was 21 years old, Mum bought a lovely cake, and my party was in the front room with Doreen, Joyce, Jack, Norman, Grandma Harris, and Auntie Olive. Dad took photos. I had lots of lovely presents and Dad bought me my three diamonds ring, for £26, which was lovely.”

On the June 12, 1954, Richard and Hilda married at Horfield Baptist Church. In February 1957, their son Bryan was conceived but only two months into the pregnancy, Richard fell seriously ill.

Richard wrote: “Easter time April 20, 1957, I was working at the BAC. On Good Friday I was very poorly. I felt and looked bad.

I thought that it was some sort of food poisoning. I went to bed. “[Hilda] rang the doctor, and I was taken to Ham Green hospital. My stomach was bloated, [Hilda] was not allowed in, and my hankies had to be thrown in from the door onto my bed.

“I was at once taken to Southmead hospital for an emergency operation. [Hilda] was told that I was terribly ill and only had a 50-50 chance of survival. It was only then that I was told that [Hilda] was two months pregnant. I am sure the news helped me through the operation.

“My burst appendix gave me a worrying time and [Hilda] wondered if our baby would have a daddy.”

Hilda believed that when Richard knew about the baby, it would give him the strength to get well again.

Eventually Richard did get better and he did get to meet his son. Bryan became their greatest joy.

The family settled into their home in Stanley Avenue, Filton when Bryan was two years old.

Hilda and Richard would continue to live a rich and full life facing adversity and fate together.

Alison said: “In 1986, Hilda

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Above, Hilda and Richard on their wedding day; below, the couple on their honeymoon

and Richard were travelling in their Danbury van to their static van in Dorset when a driver on the opposite side fell asleep at the wheel and crashed into them.

“Richard swerved so it was not a head-on collision, but they still both ended up in hospital in Southampton. Hilda also survived breast cancer in 2007.

"They were a pair of proper survivors, until it was no longer possible.

"When Richard was given a diagnosis of multiple myeloma

this year on January 7, it put a huge strain on Hilda.”

Bryan and Alison helped her to visit Richard in hospital, but it was too much. Hilda sadly passed away on March 16.

That evening, Bryan gently broke the news about Hilda to his dad, with the help of Andy the carer.

Richard slipped away just two days later, on March 18.

Alison added: “It was as if they could not live without each other.”

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

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May, 2024

News

Dance performers fly the flag for Filton at United Kingdom championships A children’s dance group from Filton has become the runner up in a prestigious national competition.

North Bristol Independent Colour Guard is an American style dance team who perform musical routines which incorporate spinning flags and other equipment as part of the choreography.

The team comprises of girls and boys between the ages of 6 and 14 and rehearses at Shield Road School in Filton.

Each year, they compete in the Winter Guard United Kingdom competition circuit, travelling to contests around Britain, culminating in the WGUK championships in Worcester, where they perform and compete alongside groups from all over the UK, Ireland and

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several countries across Europe.

The Filton based group, which was established in 2019, initially suffered as a result of the pandemic but has rebuilt itself over the last couple of years and 2024 has undoubtedly been its most successful year ever.

The team danced to music from the Disney stage show “Newsies” which tells the story of the news boys strike on the streets of New York in 1899.

Never placing outside of the top three at any competition this season, they scored an incredible 86.6 points at Worcester, meaning that they took home a silver medal.

Guard Director, Bridget Coulter said: “It’s been an incredible achievement for all the children, many of whom had never tried colour guard before this year! They’ve had the time of their lives performing this show and have made friends and memories which will last a lifetime.

"They all worked so hard and all of us, staff and parents, are so incredibly proud of them.”

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Our thanks to two Filton organisations

This photo and opposite, the group perform their championship routine; below right, their silver medal; and above right, two members are interviewed after their performance

North Bristol Independent Colour Guard would like to extend special thanks to two Filton organisations who have supported them this year.

Men in Sheds, a woodwork group based in Filton Scout Hut, created a 19th century newspaper trolley as a fabulous prop for their show.

FACE Filton also stepped in to help them out when they needed a rehearsal space on the day before the championships.

They are extremely grateful to both organisations.

North Bristol Independent are currently recruiting children for next season.

For more information, please phone or message 07889 409012.

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May, 2024

Charity celebrates 10th anniversary – and you're invited

Providing somewhere welcoming, where people feel valued and positive relationships flourish, has always been the ambition of local youth and community charity Foundation for Active Community Engagement (FACE).

And this is exactly what the organisation has achieved – and more – as it reaches a whole decade of operation.

On May 2, FACE will be marking its 10th anniversary by holding not just one, but 10 events.

The community are invited to join FACE for a birthday tea party on May 1, 11am-1pm, to enjoy refreshments, hear more

about the charity's work, and add to a special memory box about what FACE means to you.

Delivered from the youth centre in Elm Park, FACE delivers weekly youth club activities for young people from age eight and upwards, an evening group for adults with learning and social disabilities, weekly daytime community well-being activities – including an IT and tech drop-in – and two coffee mornings. The hub also hosts low impact fitness, tai chi, and a creative writing group.

Regular hirers of the centre include the Indian Pentecostal Church Bristol, City of Bristol

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Synchro, South Glos Community Learning Team, and soon, Filton Tang Soo Do.

The pandemic

The Covid outbreak was a turning point for the charity.

During the pandemic, FACE coordinated over 100 local volunteers to help residents with shopping and dog walking, distributed wellbeing boxes, hampers and food parcels and ran an affordable community store and jigsaw loaning from the youth centre.

It organised socially distanced treasure hunts and family activities in the Filton Community Garden.

FACE was also a key partner in starting the Filton Windows Trail and now coordinates a

team of 12 local Filton residents, organising what has become the popular Filton Wonderful Windows Arts Trail, which will enjoy its fifth trail this year, 15-18 November.

Debbie Teml, Charity Director at FACE, said: “Before the pandemic, FACE was a youth work organisation which did a little bit of community outreach work, but since 2020, our community work has thrived and has become much more integrated with our youth work.

“We enjoy working with partners to create new intergenerational projects and opportunities for younger and older people to come together.

We’ve had young volunteers teaching older folk to play the card game UNO, and our coffee

Charity skydive in 2015

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News

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morning attendees have in turn been teaching young people to knit and to play dominoes.”

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FACE's AGM 2022

A range of services

Over the past 10 years, the work with young people has grown substantially, and FACE now runs three to four evenings per week of youth work in Filton, Patchway, and Frampton Cotterell, plus weekly sessions in Kingswood, Easton, Southmead, Horfield, and Long Ashton.

From July, Stoke Gifford will also be added to the weekly youth work programme.

In addition, FACE takes on consultation work in communities which are thinking of adding youth work investment.

With a growing expertise in working alongside people with learning disabilities and neurodivergence, FACE runs weekly sessions for autistic young people and those with learning disabilities. The charity began leading the Bristol Autism Project in 2018, and has now

joined the Bristol Out and About consortium, providing weekly activities for neurodiverse young people in Bristol.

FACE has contracts with Bristol and South Gloucestershire Councils, and several town and parish councils. It relies on funding grants, voluntary donations, and constant fundraising initiatives.

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of its supporters, FACE helps over 5,000 people each year through its activities.

Forty-two people are employed across FACE, with 10 volunteers, aged 13-74, and eight trustees. The organisation is always on the lookout for more people to join them, whether it's helping serve tea and coffee, building relationships with older folk, supporting youth

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work activities, or helping with fundraising events.

The chair of trustees is also looking to pass on the baton to younger blood if anyone would like to join the board and help FACE develop the charity over the next 10 years.

Debbie added: “It has been an amazing 10 years for FACE, and the organisation now is pretty unrecognisable from how we started a decade ago. People say that they get a good ‘vibe’ from coming into FACE – that they can tell that we care. That is the essence of what we’re about.

“It’s not rocket science for me, it’s just about providing somewhere people feel welcomed and valued, establishing good positive lasting relationships, built from a place of love and mutual respect.

“Even if you’ve not popped in before, please come along to our birthday tea party on May 1 and find out more, and maybe even get involved in our next 10 years!”

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May, 2024

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Filton library opening hours reduced

By Adam Postans, LDRS reporter Filton library will be closing for half a day each week, as part of plans to cut library opening hours across South Gloucestershire.

Cabinet members have rubber-stamped plans to slash £273,000 from the authority’s libraries budget, which will see the district’s 12 branches shut for an extra 40 hours in total every week.

There will also be new weekly half-day closures at Hanham, Kingswood, Downend, Staple Hill, Cadbury Heath, Patchway and Winterbourne, while most will close earlier daily – including

Bradley Stoke, Emersons Green, Thornbury and Yate – to give each the same weekday staffed opening hours of 10am to 5pm, plus three hours on Saturday.

Speaking at a South Gloucestershire Council meeting in April, cabinet member for communities and local place Cllr Sean Rhodes (Labour, Kingswood) said all £200,000 annual savings from dimming street lights were being used to minimise cuts to libraries (read more, page 18).

The original budget proposals were to reduce library spending by £473,000 a year.

Cllr Rhodes said the smaller amount of savings needed, combined with feedback from a 12-week public consultation, meant the budget for books would go down by only half of the £50,000 initially planned and that all branches would have longer staffed hours than first anticipated.

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But Cllr Liz Brennan (Conservative, Frenchay & Downend) told the Lib Dem/ Labour cabinet: “We accept the reduction in the library budget was something you inherited but it was this administration who took the option to cut the services in the ‘priority neighbourhoods’.”

Cllr Rhodes replied: “We have to balance the issue around footfall in different neighbourhoods, and actually the footfall for libraries is higher elsewhere than in ‘priority neighbourhoods’.”

He said many residents used more than one library so it was important to have a consistent service with the same hours.

Asked whether the council was confident of fulfilling its legal duty of providing a comprehensive library service, Cllr Rhodes said: “Officers have been in regular contact with the Department for Culture, Media and Sport to ensure we’re

remaining compliant with our statutory responsibilities for providing a library service.”

Cabinet member for children and young people Cllr Maggie Tyrrell (Lib Dem, Thornbury) said: “We’re putting in more managed hours than originally proposed. ”It’s not just about collecting books, it’s about the whole educational process that goes on with the activities in libraries that are there for children.

“The response to the consultation just shows we have listened to what people said, and although none of us wanted to have to make cuts, we have probably got the best out of it that we possibly could.”

Cabinet member for climate and nature emergency Cllr Louise Harris (Lib Dem, Dodington) said dimming street lights protected the library service and was not only good for wildlife but people too.

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Flats approved but parking's a concern

By Adam Postans, LDRS reporter A former Filton pub will be bulldozed and replaced with a five-storey block of student flats on the outskirts of Bristol after councillors unanimously granted planning permission.

South Gloucestershire Council development management committee approved the demolition of the vacant Concorde Brewers Fayre pub, which will be replaced with 99 student beds for the University of the West of England, along with two ground-floor shops or restaurants.

But concerns were raised that the occupants would ignore a tenancy agreement banning them from bringing cars within two miles of the site at the Shield Retail Centre.

Planning officers, who recommended giving the goahead, told the meeting that some harm would be caused to the setting of the nearby Grade II-listed art deco Pegasus House

The former Brewers Fayre pub, and right, a CGI of the approved student flats

– the birthplace of the British aviation industry – but that the scheme was acceptable and would ease pressure on local housing.

Filton ward Cllr Adam Monk told the committee in March: “This is a really good application.

“I have a concern about the height of it dwarfing Pegasus House, so that is a major consideration.

“I recognise it’s a perfect location for this type of accommodation, it’s right next door to an open green space, there is a sports centre there and it’s on good bus routes.

“My major concern is the

controlling and monitoring of parking.

“I accept that a tenancy agreement says students can’t park within two miles but I’m really concerned about how that would be monitored.

“There will be 100 students in this accommodation and to believe they won’t leave their cars is naive.”

Committee member and council chairman Cllr Mike Drew (Lib Dem, Yate North) said the new L-shaped building would not have a detrimental effect on Pegasus House.

He said: “This should reduce the demand for houses in

multiple occupation in the area which the people of Filton will be grateful for.

“My only real concern is the waste management.

“Students are not known for putting things in the right bins, so I will be interested to see how they recycle.”

Officers told members that the bin storage was considered acceptable and that UWE already had a policy banning students’ cars within two miles of its campus, which it enforced through a liaison officer.

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May, 2024

Share stories to mark decade of the Brunel Celebrations will be begin this month to mark 10 years of Southmead Hospital's Brunel building.

And the North Bristol NHS Trust (NBT), which runs the hospital, is calling on Filtonvoice readers to get involved.

NBT is looking to share stories on its website and social media channels as part of the anniversary celebrations.

The Brunel opened its doors in May 2014, with services and patients moving into the new purpose-built hospital building over the course of two weeks.

Since the building opened, there have been more than 3.5 million outpatient appointments, more than 1 million people treated as inpatients and more than 900,000 Emergency Department attendances.

As part of celebrations to mark ten years of the hospital, NBT are calling on the local

Help celebrate • Have you had treatment in the hospital?

• Do you attend regularly?

• Were you one of the hospital's first patients?

• Are you an artist whose work has been displayed there, or have you performed in the hospital?

community to share experiences of the Brunel and what it means to them.

NBT Chief Executive, Maria Kane, said: “The Brunel building is one of the most advanced and modern hospitals in the entire NHS. We are so proud of what we have been able to achieve to further patient care since the

opening and are excited about the milestones and firsts that are yet to come within the building.

“As we look ahead to the next 10 years and the opportunities it will bring, we want to understand what the Brunel means to you – be that something personal or more general, whatever it is we would love to hear it.”

The North Bristol NHS Trust wants to hear from you.

Please share your experiences, what the Brunel building means to you and any photos you are willing to include.

Share your stories by emailing NBTCommunications@nbt.nhs. uk, tag @NorthBristolNHS in a post on X or Instagram using the hashtag #Brunel10 or share a comment on the Facebook page @NorthBristolNHSTrust.

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Advertising feature ELIGIBLE people are being invited to have a top-up Covid-19 vaccination this spring. The NHS is offering Covid-19 vaccines to people who are at increased risk of serious illness from the virus – including those aged 75 and over (by 30 June 2024), residents of care homes for older adults, and those aged 6 months and over with a weakened immune system.

Eligible people can make an appointment at a GP vaccination clinic when invited. People can also book an appointment at a GP clinic, a local pharmacy or at a community vaccination clinic in the following simple ways: • Download the NHS App and make an appointment • Visit www.nhs.uk/get-vaccine to use the online National Booking Service • Call 119 for free if you can’t get online (translators are available) The Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire (BNSSG) NHS area is also offering walk-in vaccinations in community clinics. For details and more information about

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Top up Covid-19 vaccination on offer for high risk people

Dr Dougal Darvill

the spring campaign, visit www. grabajab.net.

Vaccinations for people living in the community began on 22

April 2024 and local GPs have also started visiting adult care homes.

Spring vaccinations will be available until 30 June 2024.

Local GP Dr Dougal Darvill said: “Protection against Covid-19, either from catching the virus or from a previous vaccination, can fade over time and the virus can change, so if you are at higher risk of severe illness it is important that you top up your protection.

“For some, particularly older people and those with a weakened immune system, Covid-19 can still be very dangerous and even lifethreatening. If you or your child are entitled to a spring top up vaccination, I strongly encourage you to take up the offer. It’s quick and easy to recharge your immunity and will give you the protection you need for the

months ahead.

“Covid-19 vaccines provide protection against the virus and help reduce the risk of serious illness. The vaccine has saved countless lives, prevented thousands from needing to go to hospital and helped us to live with the virus without fear or restrictions. For local vaccination information, visit www.grabajab. net.”

Those invited should make sure their appointment takes place at least three months since their last dose.

Anyone who believes they should be eligible for a vaccine but does not get invited can check online. Alternatively, they can self-declare via the National Booking Service and then speak to a clinician on site.

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

Filton Town Council Filton Community Garden

GARDENING GET-TOGETHERS Alternate Saturdays, 11am-1pm

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Saturday 15th Get Growing Trail

No experience necessary, just turn up on the day. Tools and guidance provided.

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

Parish Assembly Tuesday, May 28th, 6pm Active Nation Filton, Elm Park PUBLIC AND PRESS ARE INVITED TO ATTEND The Annual Town Assembly is not a council meeting, but a meeting for the parishioners. It gives them the opportunity to ask questions about Filton and discuss community issues.

Agenda and speakers to be confirmed This will be followed by a full meeting of the council

Contact Filton Town Council Council meetings Office Opening Hours The council offices are open to the public Monday to Friday 9.00 am1.00pm and appointment only 1.00pm – 5.00pm The Council Offices are located at Elm Park, Filton, South Gloucestershire, BS34 7PS.

April

Call The Town Council Office 01454 803918

14th, 7pm, Full Council Finance & General Purposes Active Nation Filton, Studio 1 21st, 7pm, Planning Committee Active Nation Filton, FTC Council room 28th, 6pm, Parish Assembly, see above 7pm, Full Council Active Nation Filton, Studio 1

Email the Town Council Office Council Enquiries – office@filtontowncouncil.gov.uk

30th, 7pm, Full Council Active Nation Filton, Studio 1

May

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May, 2024

Filton MP Jack Lopresti

P

Why innovation is so important for our future

romoting local aerospace and defence jobs is one of my key priorities. To that end, I was honoured to welcome the Prime Minister Rishi Sunak to the Rolls-Royce facility in Filton (pictured, right).

The Prime Minister opened Future Works which showcases the future of the aerospace sector including exciting, world-leading technologies, such as the Tempest fighter jet project and Small Modular Reactors (SMRs). We also had the privilege of meeting some amazing apprentices who are inspirational role models for the next generation of engineers and scientists.

Also this month, I visited the team at MBDA. I was particularly impressed by MBDA’s commitment to investing £500 million in the UK over the next five years, really affirming MBDA's dedication to innovation. What is more?

Minister for Decarbonisation and Technology, Anthony Browne, and I paid a visit to GKN Aerospace where we were particularly impressed by their new collaborations with Vertical Aerospace in building the second prototype of the VX4 aircraft. I was also delighted to attend the opening of Rheinmetall’s new office in Aztec West.

In addition to promoting jobs with large aerospace and defence companies, entrepreneurialism and the growth of small businesses into larger ones is critical for Britain’s future. That’s why I was so

Family Tree

pleased to visit local engineers Ricky Baines and Lee Tustain at Drone Forge which makes small drones. Investment in this innovative sector is ensuring that cutting-edge technologies being produced in the United Kingdom is keeping us safe and providing jobs and apprenticeship opportunities for the long-term.

Local transport infrastructure is key to the Levelling Up plan.

That is why I am continuing to press the government to reinstate bus services which have been cut by the West of England Mayor Dan Norris. Ensuring that the M49 junction is finished is a priority.

And that’s why I was keen to point this out to Secretary of State for Transport Mark Harper upon his visit to the junction.

In Filton, I attended the Spring Fair at St Andrew’s Methodist Church and with the hard work of so many volunteers

like Susan Isherwood and Monique Levont, they were able to raise money for BRACE Alzheimer’s Research – a local charity based in Southmead which supports those who suffer from dementia or Alazheimer’s disease.

I have also recently met with volunteers Roland Coldrick and Peter Davis from the Bristol Rapid Relief Team UK at my office in Bradley Stoke. Giving food to those in need is at the heart of what this charity is about.

I have also met with Iris Hammond, who has participated in a run from Land’s End in Cornwall to John O’Groats in Aberdeenshire to raise approximately £40k for the Down’s Syndrome Association. l My office is open Monday to Friday, 9am - 6pm. Please telephone me on 01454 617783 or email me at: jack.lopresti.mp@ parliament.uk

He is buried under an Oak tree and there is a memorial stone set in the grass.

It’s a lovely spot to visit, it helps us keep his memory alive and it’s a great feeling to support the creation of a nature reserve.

We’ve got a family plot so eventually we can all be together under the trees.

Susan, London

The only funeral director in the UK creating a 100 acre nature reserve complete with its own chapel and reception rooms. Just 15 minutes drive from Cribbs Causeway.

A whole morning or afternoon costs about the same as a brief service at a crematorium. Burial or ashes interment. Complete burial service from £1,495.

Visit www.memorialwoodlands.com or call 01454 414999

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

May, 2024

E: richard@filtonvoice.co.uk

The FIEND

filtonvoice

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!

3 4

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www.filtonvoice.co.uk

Spring Flowers Match Up Match the pairs of spring flowers to find the odd one out.

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Rules the same as the Fiend, but only four numbers in each box, row and column

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

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Theme: Music

Use the phone keypad to decode the clues.

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

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Graham Cook Gardener and handyman

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

Please call for a no-obligation chat

Call 0117 377 0644 or 07415 658 205 Got a story or any other inquiry? Call Richard on 0777 555 0607 or email richard@filtonvoice.co.uk

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May, 2024

Can You Kick It

If you’re trying to save money on your food budget, consider these delicious meals that all begin with the humble can.

Tuna pasta salad Canned tuna is a protein-packed pantry staple that can be transformed into a delightful pasta salad.

Combine cooked pasta with canned tuna, diced vegetables like bell peppers, cucumbers, and cherry tomatoes, and a dressing made from mayonnaise, lemon juice, and fresh herbs.

Chickpea curry Canned chickpeas are a game-changer.

Sauté onions, garlic, and ginger in a pan, then add the chickpeas, diced tomatoes, and a blend of aromatic spices.

Simmer until the flavours meld together and serve with rice or naan bread.

Chili con carne Canned beans, such as kidney beans and black beans, can be the stars of a delicious chili con carne.

Brown ground beef or turkey in a large pot, then add canned beans, diced tomatoes, chili powder, cumin, and other spices to taste, then simmer and top with grated cheese and a dollop of sour cream for a hearty Tex-Mex meal.

Cherry pie Simply pour a tin of cherry pie filling into a pie dish and top with pre-made puff pastry and bake until golden brown.

Back-pocket pasta Sauté canned treats such as artichoke hearts, sun-dried tomatoes, olives, anchovies and capers with a little garlic and olive oil.

Toss with cooked pasta – use the pasta water as an emollient – top with grated Parmesan cheese and marvel at your culinary prowess.

ST ANDREW’S METHODIST CHURCH, ELM PARK, FILTON

SATURDAY 11th MAY 2024 3.30 – 5.15pm Crafts, fun and food for all the family Come and join us.

Entry is FREE!

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

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

May, 2024

E: richard@filtonvoice.co.uk

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17

Three-weekly collections for black bins

By Adam Postans, LDRS reporter South Gloucestershire Council (SGC) has told the Government it needs to reduce black bin collections in Filton and beyond to once every three weeks.

The authority, which last month launched a search for a new waste partner to collect rubbish from the kerbside, says doing this less frequently will help it plug a funding gap and hit recycling targets.

It has asked bidders to submit costs for fortnightly collections, which would continue as normal to begin with when the new contract starts in August 2025, as well as three-weekly.

But in a briefing to Whitehall, obtained by the Local Democracy Reporting Service, the council’s clear preference is the latter and to introduce it the following year.

It has said this would only happen after measures were put in place to recycle more household materials, including soft plastics which is being extended to thousands of more

homes following a pilot project.

A 25-year contract with Suez ends next year, and last October the Lib Dem/Labour cabinet approved plans to go out to tender for a kerbside collection service run by a private operator for eight years, with the option of a further eight years.

But it faces a financial gap of £3million to £5million and is taking steps to meet some of the shortfall, including doubling the cost of its garden waste collections from £30 to £60 in this year’s budget.

The authority said: “If SGC is to meet its target of 70 per cent recycling by 2030 and meet carbon targets, and fund the service – three-weekly is crucial.”

One stumbling block is

proposed future statutory guidance, announced by the Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (Defra), that would require local authorities to collect black bin waste at least once every two weeks.

But the council has told the Government that external legal advice stated this would not be compulsory as long as it had “cogent reasons”.

The authority said more than half of residents said they felt they could cope with the reduced collections and other councils had shown it worked.

Last month South Gloucestershire Council cabinet approved the move to once every three weeks from 2026.

The district has one of the highest household recycling rates in the country but analysis shows that almost two-thirds of black bin waste could be recycled.

Final bids for the contract are expected in the summer before a decision to appoint the successful bidder in October.

Soft plastic recycling From May, homes across Filton will be able to recycle their plastic bags and wrapping from home.

Around 20,000 more households in South Gloucestershire will be part of the kerbside collection scheme, which launched across the district in October 2022.

Residents on the new trial routes will receive information about the collections in advance and be given bags to collect their packaging.

Find out more by visiting: bit.ly/3xKaPzT

ERNEST TILL SOUTH WEST & CO LTD THE ELECTRICAL CONTRACTORS Electrical Test & Inspections / PAT testing Full and partial electrical rewires Consumer unit upgrade to 18th edition New or replacement switches / sockets / lights Shower installation Electric heating installation / Service Smoke detector installation & servicing Security lighting Electric vehicle charging points Free no obligation quotations

0117 9145400 Email: info@tills.biz / www.ernesttillsouthwest.co.uk

DAVE TRIMBY ROOFING SERVICES l A family run business with many years experience l High Quality wide range of roofing services l Lead working | All aspects of Slating & Tiling l Flat Roofing | Loft Conversions l Re-felting & Renovations l Roof repairs and renewals l Fascia, soffit and guttering work l No Job too large or Small. All work Guaranteed l Competitive Rates | Private & Commercial

www.davetrimbyroofing.co.uk 0117 904 3656 | 07899 921 338 Got a story or any other inquiry? Call Richard on 0777 555 0607 or email richard@filtonvoice.co.uk

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May, 2024

'Dimmed lights won't increase crime'

By Adam Postans, LDRS reporter Council bosses admit they need to convince Filton and South Gloucestershire residents that dimming street lights at night will not cause a spike in crime or endanger personal safety.

The plans, rubber-stamped at a recent cabinet meeting, aim to save the authority £200,000

a year in energy costs and help it meet carbon reduction goals.

It will take engineers two years to reprogramme all 31,500 lamps individually to just onequarter of their brightness from 11pm to 6am.

The idea received broad support – 69 per cent – during public consultation from October

0117 370 1710

bristol@rightathome.co.uk www.rightathomeuk.co.uk/bristol

to January, and trials in several areas in the district over the winter led to only one complaint – that they should be turned down even more, a council meeting heard.

But about one in 10 of the 783 respondents said the proposals would have a significant negative impact on

them, including making them feel more vulnerable. South Gloucestershire Youth Board, which gives a voice to young people aged 11 to 18, said it was “very much against reduced street lighting, especially around alleyways”, a report to councillors said.

Equalities campaigners warned in January that the plans are “dangerous” for some groups of people including bus passengers, villagers and those who were socially excluded, while a previous Violence Against Women and Girls survey carried out by the local authority found that 80 per cent wanted better lighting.

However, South Gloucestershire Council service director of place delivery Mark King told the scrutiny commission that there was no evidence that turning down street lamps was linked to a rise in crime, although he accepted a fear of this highlighted in the consultation needed to be tackled.

He said: “While 42 per cent considered there to be no real impact, there were some who see there would be an impact and that is mostly around perception of safety and crime rising as a result of the initiative.

“Not to belittle or underestimate those concerns, evidence shows that where we’ve done it ourselves in the past, and others have done this initiative, there is no real evidence of a correlation between crime and lighting levels.”

Cllr Brenda Langley (Conservative, Hanham) said: “With dimming lights, folks cycling will not have a clear vision of the potholes which usually fill up with rain.”

Mr King told the meeting on Wednesday, March 27, that a piece of work involving the communications team was needed to explain to residents that safety would not be compromised. He said the police often asked the council to turn lights off in some areas to stop youths gathering.

Council co-leader Cllr Ian Boulton (Labour, Staple Hill & Mangotsfield) said that having observed the trials in Thornbury, people did not notice the difference because it was so subtle.

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

May, 2024

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FREE EVENTS AT FILTON LIBRARY IN MAY 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

11TH 11AM-12PM lub! SATURDAY Get creative in our new art club!

Art C

Filton

Knit & Natter

Monday** 2-4pm

Rhymetime*

Wednesday 10:30-11:00am

Councillor Surgery

Saturday 9.30-10.30am

NTS ALL OF OUR WEEKLY EVE ARE FREE DROP-INS

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BOOKWORM

FIRST FRIDAY OF THE MONTH 2PM

Want to meet new people? The Filton Bookworms meet on the first Friday of each month at 2pm at Filton Library. All adults are welcome! Email the library for more info or to join!

WEDNESDAY 29TH 2:30-3:30PM

WANT TO ACCESS THE LIBR ARY 7 DAYS A WEEK? FIND OUT MORE HERE: SOU THGLOS.GOV.UK/OPENAC CESS

WEEKLY DROP-IN EVENTS Monday** Stories & Play* 11:15-11:45am

This month we are making collages.

For kids ages 4+, the second Saturday of each month.

Come along and join in with pet themed crafts during the school holiday! Most suitable for kids aged 4-11. If you can’t come on the day, take-home bags will be available.

Come along and join our Knit & Natter group!

Every Monday at 2-4 PM. Hot drinks provided!

LEGO CLUB

First and Third Saturday of each month (May 4th & 18th) 10:30 to 11:30 Join us for creative Lego fun!

Our themed sessions are perfect for kids aged 4-11. There's no need to bookjust come along!

*TERM TIME ONLY **EXCEPT BANK HOLIDAYS

Way A Head

Loft Boarding & Insulation

www.useyourloftspace.co.uk Way A Head is a premier Hair Salon in the Filton area.

Since 1980, we’ve offered a wide range of services and products to give you the elegant and fabulous look that you deserve.

Give us a phone call to book an appointment or enjoy our walk-in services. Our friendly team are looking forward to seeing you

702a Filton Ave, Filton, Bristol BS34 7JX 0117 969 2701 www.wayaheadsalon.com

USE YOUR LOFT SPACE is the reliable, affordable and trusted local company for all your loft boarding, and loft insulation requirements

0117 2980810 INFO@USEYOURLOFTSPACE.CO.UK

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

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May, 2024

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

1pm for hot and cold drinks, homemade cake and hot snacks and soup.

Sunday 5 May 10am Eucharist and 5pm Youth of God

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.

Services

Sunday 12 May 8.30am and 10am Eucharist celebrating the Ascension.

6pm Taizé * in the Lady Chapel Sunday 19 May 8.30am and 10am Family Eucharist celebrating the Day of Pentecost Sunday 26 May 8.30am and 10am Eucharist celebrating Trinity Sunday Midweek Said Eucharists are on Wednesdays at 7pm and Thursdays at 11am.

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.

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

Again, full details on the website.

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

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

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

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.

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, 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

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

Saturday Outside groups also regularly hire our newly refurbished multi-use church.

Cubs age 8-10, Monday and Thursday 6:30 – 8pm

Community Coffee Shop

OVER 30s DANCE PARTY at the superb BAWA Club, Filton

For bookings email: standrewsfilton@ gmail.com

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

Thursdays:

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.

Sip 'n' Chat Coffee morning: Thursday 9 May 10.00 am - 12.00. Enjoy a cuppa, a cake and a chat - all welcome.

Our friendly, welcoming coffee shop is open from Monday to Friday, 10am -

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

Messy Church: Saturday 11 May 3.30 pm - 5.15 pm. Crafts, fun and food for all the family. Children must be accompanied by a responsible adult at all times.

For all other enquiries, please Tel 0117 9872143.

FACE Mondays: 12.30-1.30pm Tai Chi, £3 entry 7-9pm The Hangout youth club for young people aged 13-25, with social or learning disabilities, £2 entry Tuesdays: 10am-12pm Coffee Club (tea & coffee morning 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:

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

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

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

Men In Sheds Filton

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

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.

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

Horfield Townswomen’s Guild

SHE7

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.

May 11th, 25th

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.

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

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May, 2024

E: richard@filtonvoice.co.uk

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21

What's on in Filton ... email shane@filtonvoice.co.uk Zumba Fitness Zumba fitness class @St Andrews Methodist Church on Fridays 7pm.

Term time only, £6 per session, booking required. For more info please contact Anna, 07513398547 www.zumba. com/p/Anna-Reade/2308790 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.

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 Saturday 4th May – Monday 6th May: The Noise 2024 A weekend of practical projects and community events across the city. www.ebe.org.uk/thenoise 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 Friday of each month at 2:00pm If you are interested in Joining, please as inside the library.

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.

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 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! northavon.singers@outlook.com or phone 0117 9699206

Functional Skills Maths Course Free maths course for over 19’s who do not hold a level 2 maths qualification.

Silent Movies accompanied by Byron Jones “The Welsh Wizard” St Andrew’s Methodist Church, Filton BS34 7PS Saturday, 4 May 2.30 – 4.00 pm (Doors open at 2.00 pm) £6 – ( tea & cake included) pay on entry (cash only) To book call 0777 363 6042

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.

Silent Movies accompanied by

Byron Jones The Welsh Wizard St Andrew’s Methodist Church, Filton BS34 7PS

Saturday, 4 May 2.30 – 4.00 pm (Doors open at 2.00 pm)

£6 – ( tea & cake included) pay on entry (cash only)

To book call 0777 363 6042

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

22

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www.filtonvoice.co.uk

News Award scheme ranks playtime at Filton Avenue school one of the country's best Filton Avenue Primary School in Horfield has been applauded for providing some of the most high-quality outdoor play not just in Bristol, but in the country.

The recognition is part of the Outdoor Play and Learning (OPAL) programme’s Honours award, which celebrates schools providing exemplary outdoor play.

Filton Avenue was re-accredited the Platinum award – their third consecutive award from OPAL – making them just a small handful of schools in the country to receive the honour.

The OPAL programme is mentorsupported and “addresses all 18 areas that a school must plan for, if they want to sustainably improve the quality of play”.

Filton Avenue’s appointed mentor said: “Congratulations to Filton Avenue on sustaining fantastic outdoor play for over seven years, for your third consecutive award, and for becoming one of a small handful of OPAL Honours schools in the UK. “The Honours award means that you are an exemplar primary school for the highest quality outdoor play, not just in Bristol, but in the country.

“This has been achieved through a sustained team effort, led by headteacher

Dan Rodeck and involving the whole school community, staff, governors, families and friends and, of course, the pupils.

“It is impossible to not feel happy, excited and inspired as you visit Filton Avenue’s unique play spaces. Well done to the whole school!”

Filton Avenue is one of 1,200 OPAL schools in the country, putting them in the top 0.5 percent for their playtimes.

The school achieved the Gold award in 2019 and their first Platinum award in 2021.

The school said: “One of the things that struck us was that none of our current children know what it was like to not have OPAL playtimes.

“We know how important play is to children and ours have played a huge role in making our playtimes what they are today.

“All the research tells us that children who regularly play outdoors are more active, they sleep better and are happier.

Children spend approximately 20% of the primary school career on the playground and I believe that’s vital we plan this time properly.”

Staff members were invited to a special event at the House of Commons to receive the award.

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

How to limit impact of sugar on teeth

I

don’t know about you, but the Easter holidays were full of yummy sweet treats and so much chocolate! Perhaps you have lots of chocolate left and you’re wondering what impact it will have on your teeth and whether there is anything you can do to reduce the damage.

Well, tooth decay, which is what leads to cavities and the need for fillings, is caused by sugar, and of course there is plenty of sugar found in chocolate.

But, we can actually take some simple (but perhaps not easy) steps towards limiting the impact that sugar has on our teeth: 1. Effectively brush your teeth twice a day – once before bed and at least one other time in the day – I would recommend before breakfast. When you brush, make sure you effectively clean all surfaces of all teeth every time.

2. Clean between the teeth once a day using either floss or interdental brushes.

3. Use a fluoride toothpaste without water – make sure you spit out but do not rinse afterwards.

4. Keep all sugary foods and drinks to mealtimes only, meaning that eating your chocolate directly after a meal is much better for your teeth than consuming it between meals – if you really must eat it between meals make sure to enjoy it all in one go rather than snacking continuously throughout the day.

5. Avoid sugary food and drinks for one hour before sleeping – try to avoid delving into that chocolate stash late at night as your teeth will really not appreciate it.

Join the Free Facebook Group - The Virtual Hygienist or book an appointment at www.thevirtualhygienist.co.uk/home

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

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