Filtonvoice Sept 2014

FREE EVERY MONTH for people and businesses in Filton

filtonvoice September 2014 Issue 36

www.filtonvoice.co.uk

... now including Cheswick Village

Back to School Special and exam successes for local schools Pages 7-14

WHAT’S ON P16 | LETTERS P18-19 | FASHION P34 Footballers gather to mark anniversary

Page 29

Delight as alley gates agreed Pages 16-17

Poppy wall for Remembrance Page 15

Long-standing butcher closes

Families give a big thumbs up for Filton’s new play park

Page 21

Council meeting - venue change

Pages 3-5

The full council meeting of Filton Town Council on September 30 will take place at Bethany Hall in Filton Avenue, Conygre and NOT the Pavilion at Elm Park.

See Page 25 for details

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Local services. Check our their advert ... and SUPPORT LOCAL BUSINESS

Contacts Richard Coulter Editor and publisher

0777 555 0607 | richard@filtonvoice.co.uk

Sarah Mills Advertising sales

0778 061 2846 | sarah@filtonvoice.co.uk

Emma Cooper Advertising sales

0771 577 0448 | emma@filtonvoice.co.uk

Aerial services P27, 28, 47

Doors P28

Hairdresser P39

Apples Press P2

Electrician P16

Homecare P29

Attics P25

Energy advice P27

Kitchens P3, 41

www.facebook.com/ filtonvoice

Barber P17, 39

Estate agent P1

Lawyer P37

Blinds P21

Life coaching P47

and on Twitter

Building services P18, 19

Filton Town Council P24-25

You can find Filtonvoice on Facebook

Business loans P31

@filtonvoice

Butcher P2

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.

South Gloucestershire Council www.southglos.gov.uk 01454 868009 Safer Stronger team sscg@southglos.gov.uk 01454 868009 Anti social behaviour team asbreporting@southglos.gov.uk 01454 868582 Streetcare/litter/vandalism etc streetcare@southglos.gov.uk 01454 868009 Environment/trading standards 01454 868001

Police

Fire

Carpet cleaning P39 Carpets P47 Computer repair P2 & 22

www.avonandsomersetpolice.uk General enquiries: 101 Emergency: 999

www.avonfire.gov.uk General enquiries: 0117 926 2061 Emergency: 999 Filton Town Council More information on Pages 16/17 01454 866 698 NHS Direct 0845 46 47

Dance P31

Fostering P20 Funeral services P26

Meal delivery P38 MP surgery P33

Rentals for over 60s P21 Restaurant, Indian P41 Roofing services P16, 47 Rubbish clearance P47 School, secondary P7-14

Optician P4

Slimming, P29Tuition P6

Landscaping P17

Painters & decorators P47

Venue for hire P47

Gardening & handyman P31

Plumber P33, 39, 47

Glass, glazing P37

Public transport P30

Gym P48

Rentals P5

Garage services P23 & 26

Vets P40 Weight loss P29 Will writing P15

Open events at Filton primary school Filton Hill Primary School will be holding two open events for prospective parents.

They will take place on Friday 10th October and Friday 17th – both at 2 pm.

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Tel: 0117 969 1232 | www.galesfarmmeats.co.uk 4 Church View, Filton, BS34 7BT Also Gales of Westbury Park, 31 North View, Westbury Park | Good old-fashioned service

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Call Rory on 07891099031 rorycox@live.co.uk St James’ Church, Lockleaze, Romney Avenue BS7 9TD

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News

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Families welcome investment in play as kids put new park to test

by Rebecca Day Children have been flocking to Elm Park these last few weeks to make use of its newly redeveloped playground.

The play area includes brightly coloured equipment such as climbing frames, swings, slides, playhouses, a seesaw and trampoline.

An area is also dedicated to older children with a zip wire, spinning dish, and woodenframed climbing equipment.

While children have been enjoying the new playground, parents have commended the town council for making improvements to the previously drab area.

Local parent Sarah Lawrence said: “We’re really impressed and the kids seem to really like it. I love The Hatch too – it’s great that parents can drink coffee Continued on Page 5

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News

Gavin Horswell at his new cafe The Hatch in Elm Park

Gavin’s Hatch is a hit with park’s visitors After 11 years working in a men’s retail store, Gavin Horswell has set up shop in the new coffee hut, built as part of Elm Park’s playground redevelopment.

Since opening on August 13, The Hatch has been a hit with parents bringing their children to the new play park, located behind Filton Leisure Centre.

Gavin said: “It’s been going really well and I'm really enjoying it. It's been very well received – we've not had one negative comment.

“People are also regularly commenting that the park has needed something like this for some time.”

The Hatch serves up breakfast baps and paninis, alongside various snacks and drinks.

Homemade cakes – prepared

by Gavin’s wife Shellain – are also on the menu, and Gavin is going to start serving soup over the winter months.

Gavin became aware of The Hatch after it was put out to tender by Filton Town Council.

Gavin and his wife – who has experience in catering – decided to put in a bid and won.

The Hatch is open from 6.45am-5pm, Monday to Friday, and 9.30am-4pm or 5pm at the weekend.

How the new park came about The play park at Elm Park was given a £70,000 overhaul after money was released to pay for the rebuild.

The playpark, which had seen calls for a revamp over the years, was subject to a consultation with families to decide the new layout.

Families gathered at the Pavilion earlier in the year they saw visual representations of the park and were invited to give their comments.

A strong feeling was that a dafe facility within view of the

park was essential and there was also a desire to have facilities for both older and younger children The money was paid to South Glos Council by developers as a condition of house building in the local area.

Filton Town Council also put up £10,000 on top of the £60,000 developer money.

The town council money was ‘106 money’ left in the coffers from the development of the Combination Ground, Gloucester Road North.

To advertise, contact Sarah on 0778 061 2846, Sarah@filtonvoice.co.uk or Richard on 0777 555 0607 or Emma on 0771 577 0448.

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5

New play park gets the thumbs-up from children – and their parents

From Page 3 while watching the kids play.”

Another local, Richard Lorriman, said that the new park was a “massive improvement”.

“I bring my kids up here a lot.

It’s been well maintained, and the climbing equipment for the older kids is a great addition, as is the safety matting on the floor.

“It’s good to see money’s being spent on the children.”

He added: “I also think that the coffee shop’s smashing – there was nothing for the parents

before. It’s definitely changed from when I was a kid – there was only a slide and swing.”

Trudy Pratt said: “My children are really enjoying it so far – they particularly love the climbing frames.

“We only live down the road, so we come and enjoy the park all the time.”

Sarah Howell said: “It’s a fab place to come after school to burn a bit more energy – the only problem is getting them away from the park.”

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September, 2014

Ex-Filton student’s World Cup role

Filton Chest & Heart Committee were pleased to present a Medley Thopaz machine (an electronic chest drain) costing £2,250, to ward 27B of the Respiratory Dept. at Southmead Hospital. This helps the whole community as well as the patients within our organisation.

A former student from SGS College had the opportunity of a lifetime by working with the current England squad in Brazil as a sport analyst for the World Cup. Alec Scott aged 26 from Bishopston studied at SGS College (formerly Filton College) back in 2004-2006 undertaking a BTEC National Diploma in Sport.

He said “At the end of my internship with Liverpool FC in 2013 I was successful in my application to work with the England Senior Football Team as an assistant performance analyst. During my first year in the role England qualified for the World and I joined the squad for the tournament in Brazil helping assist to prepare the team for matches and analyse training.”

Get the new school year off to a smart start with Kumon Many children return to school after the summer holidays with a new, crisp, school uniform and a restocked pencil case, but it is just as important to ensure your child is equipped with the most vital tools needed for a successful year ahead; a good grip on the core subjects of maths and English and the learning skills required for academic progression.

At your local Horfield Study Centre, Kumon offers individualised maths and English study programmes tailored to all ages and abilities.

Established for over 50 years, the worksheet-based study programmes enable students to progress to an advanced level, at their own pace, so they can realise their potential and experience success.

Every child will benefit from a free assessment before enrolling. This will identify your child’s current level of ability and how the individualised Kumon maths and English study programmes will help them achieve and succeed.

A Kumon parent said: “What I like about Kumon is that my child’s confidence and concentration has improved as well as their mental arithmetic!”

For more information, contact Sophie Taylor on 0117 377 5310 or email horfield@kumoncentre.co.uk.

Fees vary. Please refer to your local study centre.

kumon.co.uk

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Back to School Special

Explore life at vibrant school Jeremy McCullough, newly appointed as headmaster of Colston’s School in Bristol, has been reflecting on the school’s “glorious green site” at Stapleton.

The historic Colston’s buildings, including the listed Bishop’s Palace, are surrounded by 30 acres of open space.

“Families visiting the school at the Whole School Open Morning on September 27 will find that Colston’s is a vibrant, busy and diverse place where our happy students achieve excellent things,” he said.

“Fully co-educational throughout its 3 to 18 age range, the girls and boys come from a wide range of backgrounds and with a range of experience and ability to the Lower School (3 to 11) and the Upper School (11 to 18).

“Both have immediate access to extensive playing fields, a theatre, sports hall, bespoke

fitness centre and concert venue, not forgetting our forest school for the younger students.

“In this atmosphere Colstonians achieve excellent results, but all we ever ask is that individuals do the very best they can in everything that they do and we celebrate their achievements accordingly.

“In addition to Open Morning I can strongly recommend our Taster Days when girls and boys from other schools can join a Colston’s class and experience the full timetable.”

Jeremy has taught in Bishop’s Stortford and Edinburgh, and has arrived at Colston’s having been Second Master at Lancing College in Sussex.

He and his wife Sally have four boys who are now all at Colston’s.

For more details, call Colston’s on 0117 965 5207 or visit www.colstons.bristol.sch.uk.

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7

College offers its students a second chance to succeed St Brendan’s Sixth Form College is celebrating another year of great GCSE results.

As well as offering one of the widest selections of A levels and BTECs in the South West, the College also runs GCSE courses in English, maths and biology.

Most students on these courses have previously failed or achieved less than a C grade in these subjects after five years at school or in the case of biology have discovered that they need a science GCSE in order to progress further along their chosen education or career pathway.

Vice Principal Maddy Woolfenden said: “Many of our students have enjoyed success at GCSE with an overall college achievement of 98 per cent in the three subjects on offer.

“Fifty seven students achieved a grade C or higher in English and 47 students achieved a grade C or higher in mathematics.

“GCSE biology delivered over two years in most institutions but in just one year at St Brendan’s, has enjoyed a 57 per cent success rate – this is a great achievement for staff and students after nine months of teaching.”

Three students who were very happy on results day were Jake Bartlett from Bath, who previously attended St Mark’s School, and Aaron Planter and Oshae Callaway from Bristol, who both previously studied at St Mary Redcliffe and Temple School.

All three collected their Level Two Performing Arts BTEC awards and found out that they had all achieved the grade Cs that they needed in their GCSEs. George Webb from St Annes, a former student of Brislington Enterprise College also achieved the grade C he needed in English.

He also passed his Level Two Cambridge TEC Diploma in IT.

Independent – Co-educational – All age

A school for the whole family

Choosing your next school

Whole School Open Morning Saturday September 27 (10am -1pm)

Sixth Form Information Evening Thursday October 9 (7pm)

Taster Days during Autumn Term (8.15am-4pm) Further information from Denise Sollis Tel 0117 965 5207 denisesollis@colstons.bristol.sch.uk

Colston’s School, Stapleton Bristol BS16 1BJ www.colstons.bristol.sch.uk Registered Charity No 1079552

Scholarships and bursaries available

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

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Back to School Education

17

September, 2014 www.filtonvoice.co.uk follow us on Twitter @bishopstonvoice

Students ready to fulfil their dreams RED Maids’ students have once again achieved outstanding examination results and are now preparing to move on some of the best courses, mainly at Russell Group universities.

At International Baccalaureate Diploma 22% of subjects at higher level were awarded level 7 - the highest level possible - and 80% achieved a level 6 or 7. Five girls scored an amazing 41 points out of a possible 45.

At A2 Level, 14.5% of all entries were graded A* and 28% of students gained at least one A* grade.

More than half of all A2 entries – 52% - were awarded an A* or A grade and in total, 16 girls achieved three or four A* and A grades.

Speaking of these results, Headmistress Isabel Tobias commented, “Our students are academically able and motivated and with the support of outstanding teachers they have achieved the best possible outcomes.”

In Economics, German, Latin, and Philosophy and Ethics, the girls swept the board with 100% A* and A grades.

In Art, Business Studies, Further Maths, Music, Physical Education, Russian and Spanish all students received A*, A or B grades.

Mrs Tobias added, “The most important thing is that young people are able to find out what they are good at and are equipped to fulfil their dreams. The girls at Red Maids’ pursue challenging courses which will lead them into the professions and help them make an impact in the world.”

The hard work was all worth it!

Our students leave with much more than the best exam results

Visit us Whole School visiting events Thursday 9 October Saturday 8 November redmaids.co.uk

Eleanor Favourite subject - History Loves ballet - Royal Academy of Dance: Intermediate Grade 3 cellist, plays in the Concert Orchestra, Cello Ensemble, Youth Choir

Alice: Favourite subject - ICT Loves athletics Karate green belt Grade 5 oboist, descant and treble recorder

For more information contact: Junior School, Mrs Lynn McCabe 0117 962 9451 Senior School, Mrs Liz Bamber 0117 989 8252

@RedMaidsSchool /redmaidsschool

Westbury-on-Trym, Bristol BS9

To advertise, contact Emma 0117 on9080778 2121061 Or 2846, 07715 Sarah@filtonvoice.co.uk 770448. Got News? Call Rebecca On 07912 484405. emma@bishopstonvoice.co.uk To advertise, contactonSarah or Richard on 0777 555 Email: 0607 or Emma on 0771 577 0448.

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Back to School

9

Record year for results at QEH The boys at Queen Elizabeth’s Hospital achieved record GCSE level results this year with 90 per cent of all GCSE grades at A*to B, 72 per cent at A* or A and 45 per cent of grades gained at A*.

Thirty boys – over one-third of the QEH GCSE cohort – achieved a straight set of A* and A grades.

Head of English Rory Harris was delighted that 90 per cent of IGCSE English Language grades were at A* or A and said: “This matches our equal success in last year’s English literature IGCSEs, so we are again delighted at this result in such a vital subject area where boys might traditionally struggle to compete with girls.”

Granville Sykes, deputy head (academic), added: “Along with stunning results in English language, mathematics scored an enviable 75 per cent A* and As. In each of these two core subjects 100 per cent of our boys scored an A*-C pass rate.”

At A level QEH boys celebrated a 100 per cent pass rate at A level for the ninth year running, with 94 per cent of grades at A* to C grade and

80 per cent at A* to B in 2014.

One-third of individuals taking the examinations at the school achieved straight A* or A grades in their three or four A level subjects.

QEH headmaster Stephen Holliday said: “Added to record GCSEs, our exceptional A level and AS level results mean that about 10 per cent of boys from the year group have been offered places at Oxford and Cambridge, in addition to many others who will be off to medical, veterinary and dentistry schools as well as other top universities.

“Our consistently strong record for top results is part of the much greater package that we offer to boys in preparing them for higher education and successful future careers. Boys leave QEH with not only the qualifications but the confidence to meet the challenges of the world ahead.

“With these superb results in both GCSE and A level no one can doubt the quality of education provided at QEH which is widely accepted as the school of choice for boys in Bristol.”

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A GOOD school for teaching and learning, behaviour and leadership - Ofsted 2013

Open evening 2014 Tuesday, October 7th 6.30pm Open mornings 2014 Tuesdays 9th, 16th, 23rd and 30th Sep and 7th Oct, 9-10.30am

Orchard School Bristol, Filton Road, Horfield BS7 0XZ info@orchardschoolbristol.co.uk | 0117 377 2000 www.orchardschoolbristol.co.uk facebook.com/OrchSchoolBristol | @OrchardSB

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Back to School Special

11

Delight at students’ achievements Pupils at Orchard School Bristol are celebrating after some fantastic successes in their GCSE results. The school is delighted that results have matched its best ever grades.

Personal successes have been aplenty, with one pupil, Jake Winter, achieving three A*s, eight As, one B, and a distinction in IT. Jake is off to Redland Green in September to study maths, further maths, chemistry and physics, alongside a Cambridge access course.

These results are to Jake’s credit, and are down to his hard work. He has also not had a day off for every year that he has been in school. He said: “I’m really happy about all of my grades, especially those in science and maths - I didn’t really know what to expect.”

Balazs Szert, who moved to Bristol from Hungary, could only speak a small amount of English when he joined Orchard School during Year 10. He achieved A* in maths, A in statistics, and Bs in English and science. He is going to Redland Green to study maths, further maths, psychology and art.

Daniella Lynch, who is going on to practise hair and make-up at SGS College, gained two As, four Bs and five Cs, including maths, English and science.

Forty-five percent of Year 11 students achieved A* to C in English and maths, and 44 per cent achieved 5 A* to C GCSE grades including English and maths.

The school is particularly proud of its results in English and maths, where eighty-four percent of students made

Jake Winter with Brenda Massey (left) and Orchard head, Dr Helen Holman (right); below, other students get their results – and ice creams from Dr Holman expected progress in English, and 58 per cent made expected progress in maths.

Dr Helen Holman said: “There have been some fantastic individual triumphs this year, with the majority of our students going off to study at their chosen college.

“It’s also important that we recognise the progress that pupils have made since Key Stage 2. We’re absolutely delighted and thrilled - a huge well done Year 11.

She added: “We’re already hearing about the excellent results that our previous students have gone on to achieve at the North Bristol Post 16 centre. We wish them all the best, and we look forward to hearing about their chosen destination.”

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Back to School Special

13

Strong results show Abbeywood is a place pupils can achieve goals After last year’s best ever GCSE results at Abbeywood Community School, there were high hopes of matching the achievements this year.

The headline figures are almost at last year’s levels and represent another strong set of GCSE results with some stunning achievements by individual students. Under the old system, 58 per cent of students achieved at least five A*-C grades at GCSE including English and maths and 82 per cent achieved five A*-C grades.

Executive head teacher Dave Baker said: “We congratulate our students on another set of wonderful GCSE results but can’t help but feel slightly disappointed that the figures which will be reported in the new-look DfE performance tables will give the impression that Abbeywood Community School has dipped slightly compared to last year, with 56 per cent of students achieving at least five A*-C grades at GCSE including English and maths and 62 per cent achieving five A*-C grades under the new rules.

Back row: Joe Mansfield, Nathan Badman, Judith Mee (Associate Headteacher), Ethan Martin and Peter Edwards. Front row: James Franks, Hueson Wong, Aleksandra Wegera, Dan Williams, Ben Haslam and Dave Baker (Executive Headteacher) “However, once the local and national picture become clear, we are confident that these results will show clear consolidation and demonstrate that Abbeywood Community School is a good school where students do well.”

Associate head teacher Judith

Mee said: “I am particularly delighted that our students have gained significantly more A* and A grades than ever before and, in addition, one of our Year 7 students achieved an A grade in GCSE maths!”

The highest performing students and their achievements

are listed below and the school congratulates them on their hard work: Joe Mansfield 9 x A*, 1 x A, 1 x Pass James Franks 9 x A*, 1 xB, 1 x Merit Aleksandra Wegera 7 x A*, 4 x A, 1 x Distinction Olivia Thorne 5 x A*, 4 x A, 1 x B, 1 x Distinction Nathan Badman 3 x A*, 7 x A, 1 x Pass Ben McQuaid 2 x A*, 8 x A, 1 x Pass Ben Haslam 1 x A*, 7 x A, 2 x B, 1 x Pass Stefan Johansen 2 x A*, 5 x A, 2 x B, 1 x Merit Ethan Martin 2 x A*, 5 x A, 3 x B, 1 x Pass Laura Kynaston 8 x A, 2 x B, 1 x Distinction Peter Edwards 1 x A*, 5 x A, 4 x B, 1 x Pass Hueson Wong 3 x A*, 4 x A, 2 x B, 1 x Pass Amy Edwards 5 x A, 4 x B, 1 x Distinction, 1 x Pass Jessica Monk 7 x A, 1 x B, 2 x Distinction

Students ready to take the next step after good A level outcomes L to r: Abbeywood A level students Nadia Restall, Amy McQueen and James Hampson

L to r: Bradley Stoke A level students Sophie Maxted, Alex Shoferpoor and Joe Whetter

Students and staff celebrated positive A level outcomes at both Abbeywood Community School and Bradley Stoke Community School this summer, with more students than ever gaining grades to be accepted onto university courses across the country.

Abbeywood has seen a slight dip in headline figures compared with previous years, in line with what is being reported nationally, but has seen huge successes in BTEC and vocational outcomes in particular. One hundred per cent of students who were seeking places on Higher Education courses gained places and a number of others have secured apprenticeships with prestigious organisations. The average points score per entry was 187 and average total points score was 669.

There were significant individual successes at both AS and A2 level. Among the top

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

performers at A2 were James Hampson (A*BB), who is going to Exeter to study maths; Nadia Restall (ABB), who is going to Cardiff to study English literature; and Amy McQueen (ABD), who is going to Cardiff to study journalism.

Bradley Stoke Community School seems to have bucked the national trend by maintaining the average points score per entry from last year of 208 (197 last year) and achieving a big increase in average points per student to 733 (683 last year).

There were some phenomenal individual successes at both A2 and AS level, with Alex Shoferpoor (A*A*A* + A at AS) gaining a place at Oxford University to study law; Sophie Maxted (A*AA + A at AS) going to Bristol to study law; and Joe Whetter (AAA + Dist* in Y12) going to Southampton to study chemistry.

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Back to School

Emilia Inskip from Filton has secured a place at Bristol University

Students unlock their potential Students celebrated a strong set of A level results at SGS College this summer.

Among the success storuies was Emilia Inskip from Filton.

After leaving school she tried further education but was never really sure what she wanted to do so after many failed attempts at courses she went out into the world of work.

After years of dead-end jobs Emilia, 21, made the decision to go back to learning and went to SGS College to study A levels.

She really wanted to become an English teacher and received notification that she had been accepted with an unconditional offer to Bristol University a couple of months ago. She received her A2 results this

summer, gaining a B in media and C in English language.

She said: “I feel really good.

It’s weird. I’m scared, excited and pleased. I cannot believe I got into Bristol University but can’t wait.”

Eighteen-year-old Becky Hillyer from Stoke Gifford will be heading to UWE next year to study law after receiving three Bs in her A levels, studying English language, law and sociology. Becky, pictured below, did resits last year after not doing so well in her AS levels but that hasn’t affected her determination.

She said: “I am extremely happy I got in. I’m really looking forward to starting university.

All my hard work has paid off.”

September, 2014

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Filton Community Garden

15

Wall of poppies for Remembrance A ‘Wall of Poppies’ will be created at Filton Community Garden for Remembrance Day. Many residents, including the Filton Knitting group, have been knitting poppies and the hope is to create a wall of poppies along the fence boundary of the Community Garden and the A4174.

Filton Community Garden chairman Dave Mikkelson said: “With the recent anniversary of the 100 year Centenary of the commencement of WW1 we felt we should mark the occasion and to pay tribute to those who fought so bravely so that we could enjoy our freedom.

“We have had a fantastic response through our Facebook page and personally through people who have come and spoke to us in the garden, and through an article in the Evening Post.

“Our drive now is the November event and I would like

to ask people of Filton to come forward to volunteer to knit poppies so that we can have a spectacular display.

“Contact can be made through our email address communitygarden@

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The community garden is also running a Macmillan coffee event at the community garden on Saturday, September 27. See poster on Page 16 opposite.

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16

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Rising Stars The fun new drama, singing and dancing group in Filton is now getting ready for its Christmas show.

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September, 2014

News More homes get

by Rebecca Day After almost seven years, gates are to finally be installed along several alleyways in Filton in a bid to deter burglars and antisocial behaviour.

Sixth, Seventh, Eighth, Ninth Avenues and Filton Avenue (odd numbers between late 400s to mid-500s) are to receive alley gates around mid-September.

Filton’s police community support officer Sheryl Drewitt – also known as the “Alley Gate Queen” – has been behind the project.

Alley gates have already proved successful in Charborough Road, Fourth Avenue, Third Avenue, Kipling Road, Mackie Road, Northville Road, Park Road, Tenth Avenue and parts of Filton Avenue, which were often targeted by burglars. Homes, garden sheds and garages – which back onto the alleyways – were being broken into and they were also a magnet for fly-tipping.

PCSO Drewitt said: “The criminal would be out of sight, not overlooked and have great escape routes keeping off the main roads. By installing gates this has significantly reduced house burglaries, garage and shed burglaries and in some cases eliminated this type of crime altogether.

“Youths are unable to congregate in the rear lanes so this has had a positive impact on anti-social behaviour in the area and put a stop to the regular fly-tipping.”

Brian Smith, a Third Avenue resident, said that since gates were installed along his alleyway in May 2009 there have been no incidents.

According to Mr Smith, between April and October in 2008, seven houses were burgled along Third Avenue, 11 sheds and garages were broken into, and one resident had their car burnt out in their garage.

He said: “With our alleyway

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September, 2014

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17

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News ‘security they deserve’ with gates backing onto Millennium Green, it provided a quick getaway for burglars. We knew something had to be done, so after many meetings and much consultation with the council, we finally had gates installed.

“And there hasn't been one incident since.

You can't do better than have lane gates for residents’ security. They have had a tremendous positive impact, and Sheryl Drewitt is to be complimented for helping locals get the security they deserved.”

Residents receiving the new alley gates have contributed £66 per household, plus an additional but discounted price of £10 per key to access their alley gate.

When funding was previously available from the Home Office, PCSO Drewitt secured £5,500 towards the scheme.

Co-ordinators Bob Hurdon, Byron Jones, Ruth Alder, Mike Alder, Kerry Robinson, Elizabeth Hurdon, Julie Lanfear, PCSO Sheryl Drewitt and Terry Ahearn celebrate

However, funding is no longer available for such projects.

The gates have cost £12,246 in total.

PCSO Drewitt added: “To celebrate all the hard work and sheer determination to get these gates, the co-ordinators and I

thought a celebration might be in order. There will be a chance to meet fellow residents and tidy up the back lanes, hopefully with refreshments.”

She also praised the efforts of the co-ordinators to help get the scheme up and running.

“Without their sheer determination and hard work, the alley gates would not have happened,” she said.

The scheme for Wallscourt Road, other alleyways in Filton Avenue (even numbers from late 500s), and Tenth and Eleventh Avenues, which required a “gating order” to prevent or reduce crime, was delayed due to some “weak locations” within the area.

According to PCSO Drewitt, this has now been resolved but the legislation has now changed and gating orders will cease in October.

She added: “After the new legislation is in place hopefully early next year I would like to re-consult with residents but need co-ordinators to drive this scheme forward.”

If interested, contact Sheryl Drewitt at sheryl.drewitt@ avonandsomerset.police.uk.

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18

T: 0777 555 0607

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My concern over Filton crime I am taking this opportunity to raise a concern affecting our Filton society and neighbourhood due to what I view as negligence from our SG Council and Police.

Filton is now becoming a vandalism hub of South West and probably the most crime prone area in South Gloucestershire.

There have been several incidents in the past which have been reported to police by local residents but there is no action from police.

Two weeks ago a wooden

filtonvoice

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September, 2014

Have you got strong views about what’s happening in Filton?

Or you might want to take the opportunity to praise a friend, or family member for an act of kindness or to mark an achievement.

Whatever you want to say, write to us and we’ll make sure everyone in Filton knows about it. Send your letter by email to richard@filtonvoice.co.uk, by post to Letters, Filtonvoice, 49 Dunkeld Avenue, Filton BS34 7RQ or call us on 0777 555 0607.

You can also comment on stories at www.filtonvoice.co.uk. Please keep letters short. The editor reserves the right to edit your letter. box was thrown my house and it missed the window. In another incident a policemen’s househad its top bedroom window smashed with a stone.

This is a house on busy A38 near Airbus roundabout so you can imagine how busy the street is yet it still got a smashed window. The bus stop nearby has had its glass broken several times but no one takes any action to stop such crime.

Is this a lack of responsibility from police or from SG Council.

Is our government waiting for crime to increase like it was back in 2000 - 2001 in the Filton Horfield area.

The consequences are that Filton is currently paying the highest council tax in South Gloucestershire. I have to pay a premium for my car insurance due to lack of action from the council and police to stop vandalism and hooliganism in Filton. My home insurance is also going up due to all such incidents in the area.

Well, I guess we need CCTV cameras fitted on our streets as Neighbourhood Wwatch is of no use for such busy area.

If we do not take action now then one day it will be your home or my home which will have a stone flying through the window

nt Clie nials imo E t s e t LIN

ON

and killing/injuring someone badly. Lets see how far this goes before Filton can becomes a peaceful town again.

Mayur

Heartfelt thanks after dog fight

I would like to thank the lady who came to my assistance on the 30 July 2014 when my dog was involved in a fight with another dog in the Millennium field. Without her assistance, I am sure that my dog would have lost his eye. Unfortunately I did not get her name or address

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September, 2014

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filtonvoice

so I am hoping that she will read this letter and know just how very grateful I am for her intervention.

J Wadge, Northville

Filton is NOT a smokeless zone?

To the letter writer re smoke: We also were enjoying a pleasant summer evening in the garden in

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Filton. When you knocked on our front door to ask us to put our small garden fire out which was contained in an aluminium bin at 10pm one evening. We obliged this request very quickly without delay.

However we had asked Filton Town Council if Filton was a smokeless zone which they confirmed it is not. So next time we have a garden fire please do not moan. We only burn garden rubbish once darkness falls. Also what about barbeques? Many a time my washing has smelt of sausages or burger, but I do not complain as I feel we should enjoy the lovely weather when we can.

From, ‘the cretin’, Filton Resident

Well done for tea hut at play park

What a fantastic addition the new tea hut is to the Elm Park site. I would like to congratulate whatever councillor had the idea

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

19

in the first place. I dont agree with a lot of the things they do but in this case many thanks Paul Fennel, Filton

Seeking a local card playing club

I am hoping you may be able to help by posting a letter in your next edition please: I am in my early 40s & am trying to find an evening hobby.

I do love playing cards (cribbage, rummy, pea knuckle, hearts & bezique to name a few), but I do not want to gamble.

Does anyone know if there is a friendly card playing club in the local area please?

Sue Lynch, Filton Park Have your say on Facebook at www.facebook. com/filtonvoice.

You can also join the Filton News and Views Facebook group to find out views of your fellow residents on all sorts of matters.

We’re also on Twitter @filtonvoice

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September, 2014

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21

Douglas Daniels Columnist Long-serving butcher’s shuts up shop after 86 years on high street When Millhouse Butchers of Filton closed its doors for the last time on Saturday, August 16, it brought to an end a quality business that has served the area faithfully for 86 years.

Formed originally by Charles Millhouse, who came to Filton from London with his wife and four children, his first week’s takings were just £5.

Working long hours and applying his motto “cleanliness, service and civility”, he worked up a successful business, retiring shortly after World War II. His youngest son, Roy, carried on the business from his father in 1960.

Roy’s younger son, Norman, followed later. Elder son, Roger, joined him on returning from Australia in 1971, enlarging the business until both retired in

2008 and 2011. Keeping the name “Millhouse” ensured the continuation of a respected name until the present day when it was leased to Adrian Cunliffe.

Despite undergoing a recent refit of the shop front, circumstances have now led to the closure of the business.

Filton has undoubtedly felt the closure predictably after the shop served this town prominently for so many years.

Only one butcher now remains, extending a wide distance along both Gloucester Road North and Filton Avenue serving 900 or more residences.

Norman Millhouse has exploited all opportunities to keep the business active but so far has had no response.

While the name “Millhouse Butchers” has disappeared from the local scene Norman would

like to acknowledge Adrian’s valiant efforts and customers for their loyal support.

Parking signage must be made clear for motorists Those visiting the part of Filton close to the border with Bristol on the Gloucester Road North will be aware of a car park straddling the border.

The car park is well used and up until recent times was provided with a toilet facility.

Because of vandalism this toilet was closed and now the nearby cafe’s facilities are the closest option.

When visiting the cafe with a Filton resident recently, we parked the car in an on-street bay. Not noticing the time restriction, obscured by a hanging basket of flowers, we

slightly overstayed the time limit. It was certainly “cold comfort” to be made rudely aware of this by a £25 penalty charge attached to his windscreen. This could be extended to £50 if not paid on time.

I successfully challenged this charge with South Gloucestershire Council since the time limit sign was partially obscured by the flower basket and the stopover was primarily of necessity rather than just to dine.

I am in no way against the need to control parking in

areas that would constitute an obstruction to fronting businesses but South Gloucestershire Council must take due accord to make car owners aware of the parking time limits.

The parking sign is inward facing towards the road and was at the time – almost obscured by the hanging baskets as the photo shows. More awareness must be provided for approaching traffic.

Visitors will be deterred from visiting the shops if this kind of lack of attention to signs persists.

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T: 0777 555 0607 22 filtonvoice Filton planning applications August Applications 31 Tenth Avenue: Erection of two storey side and single storey rear extensions to provide additional living accommodation Charlton House, Rectory Lane: Demolition of existing vacant care home to facilitate erection of 22. dwellings, associated car parking and hard and soft landscaping 9 Elm Park: Application for a certificate of lawfulness for the proposed erection of a single storey rear extension.

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(Sui Genereis) as defined in Town and Country Planning (Use Classes) Order 1987 (as amended).

totem sign and non-illuminated vinyls.

45 Bridgman Grove: Erection of two storey side and rear extension to provide additional living accommodation.

Installation of 1 front dormer window to facilitate loft conversion (amendment to previously approved scheme)

39 Third Avenue: Erection of a single storey rear extension.

No Objection

701 Southmead Road: Erection of detached garage

21 Dunkeld Avenue: Application for a certificate of lawfulness for the proposed erection of a single storey rear extension and extension to garage.

Lanes Dairy, Rectory Lane: Change of use of ground floor from light industrial (Class B2) to House for Multiple Occupancy

Filton Park Garage, 31 - 39 Gloucester Road: Display of 1 externally illuminated fascia sign, 1 internally illuminated

Decisions

3 Shanklin Drive: Application for a certificate of lawfulness for the proposed alteration of the roofline to form a GRP flat roof to the existing two storey extension, internal works and alterations to windows Withdrawn 14 Cleve Road: Non material amendment to PT09/0602/F to install front and rear dormer windows Objection 35 Braemar Avenue: Erection of two storey side

September, 2014

extension to provide additional living accommodation.

Approve with Conditions 60 Kenmore Crescent: Erection of a single storey rear conservatory.

Approve with Conditions 8B Abbey Wood Retail Park Station Road: Non-material amendment to PT11/2290/F for alteration of existing glazed shopfront to Unit 8b to accommodate sub-dividing wall, new swing double doors and replacement swing doors.

Alteration of existing cladding to rear wall to accommodate new fire escape and service door.

No Objection Visit www.southglos.gov. uk for more

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During October, smokers in Filton are being encouraged to take part in the 28-day stop smoking challenge Stoptober.

We know that if you can stop smoking for 28 days you are five times more likely to stay smokefree, and Stoptober leads smokers through a detailed stepby-step programme to help them achieve this goal.

Smokefree South Gloucestershire offers free advice and support to quit smoking throughout the area.

Stop smoking medications like Champix® or nicotine patches can also be arranged on prescription.

For Stoptober, there will be extra sessions every week for any smokers aged 12+ who would like to find out more about joining the Stoptober challenge.

As well as the financial benefits of stopping smoking, those undertaking the 28 day programme will experience physical improvements including

a better sense of smell and taste and more energy.

Longer term, those who stop smoking reduce their risk of heart disease and lung cancer as well as protecting others from their secondhand smoke.

Smoking is one of the biggest cause of premature death in South Gloucestershire and each year it accounts for over 100,000 deaths in the UK. One in two long-term smokers will die prematurely from a smoking disease.

The Stoptober 2014 challenge kicks off on Wednesday 1 October and runs for 28 days. To get prepared, smokefree sessions will run throughout September at a location near you! For more info visit www.southglos.gov.uk/ stoptober, email smokefree@ southglos.gov.uk or call 01454 865502.

To advertise, contact Sarah on 0778 061 2846, Sarah@filtonvoice.co.uk or Richard on 0777 555 0607 or Emma on 0771 577 0448.

September, 2014

E: richard@filtonvoice.co.uk

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23

E BE H T

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News

filtonvoice

with Filton Sgt Steve Ives

Doors to open at new police centre

A new police centre at Patchway is due to open by the end of the month, housing an inquiry office open to the public seven days a week.

It follows the closure of Filton police station earlier this year, which has now been demolished.

Some residents got their first look inside the new building on Gloucester Road North at the start of September when the police offered guided tours.

Training for staff at the new centre is under way and a spokesperson for Avon and Somerset Police said the opening would mark the end of the programme to centralise custody services and provide larger, more flexible spaces for the team.

The new centres at Patchway, Keynsham and Bridgwater will increase custody capacity by 27 per cent and make the process more efficient, the spokersperson added, enabling police officers to get back on the streets.

Avon and Somerset Police and Crime Commissioner Sue Mountstevens said: “The opening of these new modern police

centres marks the end of a long journey to transform the police estate and make it fit for a new generation of policing. Many police stations are outdated, inefficient and under-utilised.

These new buildings are not only greener, more sustainable and more cost efficient, they are also flexible enough to meet the future demands that Avon and Somerset Constabulary will face over the coming years.

“I am delighted that throughout this development we have been able to offer apprenticeships, opportunities for ex-offenders and school visits.

“There have also been many local economic benefits with 77 per cent of subcontractors based within 35 miles of each of the sites, or within the Avon and Somerset area. I would like to thank the project team, our contractors, our staff and the cooperation of our neighbours for making these new police centres possible.”

Patchway’s inquiry office will be open 8am-8pm every day.

What do you keep in your garage? I bet it’s not your car! It’s important to take the security of your garage as seriously as the security of your home.

While Filton is a safe place to live, it’s always sensible to make sure anything valuable is locked up – and to report anyone behaving suspiciously at a neighbour’s property by calling 999 straight away.

That’s just what some good neighbours did back in July, when they spotted a group of youths taking property from a garage and making off on foot.

We searched the area and recovered a stolen strimmer.

We arrested three young men nearby and they’re on bail pending the results of a forensic crime scene investigation. I’d like to thank the members of the public who called in to report this incident, and I’d recommend joining Neighbourhood Watch. Watch members get updated about incidents like this so that we can work together to keep the area safe.

You can improve your garage security by: • Permanently marking property stored inside with your postcode and registering items at www.immobilise.com

• Chaining items to a ground anchor inside the building • Installing a low-cost alarm • Putting metal mesh or bars inside the windows or covering them so no one can see inside • Securing up-and-over doors with an external groundanchored lock or blocking the runner by drilling a hole and fitting a padlock You can find more security advice on our website, www. avonandsomerset.police.uk.

I’d like to update you about our investigation into the robbery at Filton Post Office. Our inquiries are continuing and we have arrested two suspects who remain on police bail. If you know anything which could help the investigation, please get in touch through www. avonandsomerset.police.uk/ contact, quoting reference 72790/14.

Finally, we’re lucky to have free Roadsmart courses running on our doorstep and I’d urge everyone to check out the website www.roadsmart. org to find out more. The twohour courses are held at the Holiday Inn, Filton. There’s one designed for young drivers aged 17 to 24 and one for people aged 25 and over.

www.filton-central.co.uk

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

Filton Town Council Useful phone numbers Service required Responsibility Phone Numbers Abandoned vehicles South Glos 01454 86 8000 Adoption and fostering South Glos 0800 206 1443 Adult care services South Glos 01454 86 8007 Allotments Filton Town Council 01454 86 6698 Anti social behaviour South Glos 01454 86 8582 Benefits (housing and council tax) South Glos 01454 86 8002 Benefit Fraud Enquiry Line South Glos 0800 073 7377 Bins South Glos 01454 86 8000 Birth Registrations South Glos 01454 86 3140 Blue Badge Scheme South Glos 01454 86 8004 Building Control South Glos 01454 86 8004 Bulky Waste South Glos 01454 86 8000 Bus Shelters Filton Town Council 01454 86 6698 Cemeteries South Glos 01454 86 5831 Child protection South Glos 01454 86 6000 (out of hours emergency) South Glos 01454 615165 Concessionary travel South Glos 01454 86 8004 Community Centre (Filton) Filton Community

Assoc 0117 983 6500 Council tax South Glos 01454 86 8003 Council tax benefit South Glos 01454 86 8002 Deaths – registration South Glos 01454 86 3140 Democratic services South Glos 01454 86 8009 Development control South Glos 01454 86 8004 Disabled Parking South Glos 01454 86 8000 Dog Wardens South Glos 01454 86 8000 Drainage South Glos 01454 86 8000 Drug and alcohol treatment service South Glos 0800 073 3011/

01454 868750 Education South Glos 01545 86 8000 Electoral registration South Glos 01454 86 3030 Environmental Health South Glos 01454 86 8001 Equalities South Glos 01454 86 4620 Fly tipping South Glos 01454 86 8000 Food safety South Glos 01454 86 8001 Freedom of Information South Glos 01454 86 8009 Freedom of Information Filton Town Council 01454 86 6698 Gates (Alley and Lanes) Filton Town Council 01454 86 6698 Grants South Glos 01454 86 5865 Grants – local community groups Filton Town Council 01454 86 6698 Gritting South Glos 01454 86 8000 Gypsy and Travellers South Glos 01454 86 3876 Hanging baskets Filton Town Council 01454 86 6698 Highway maintenance South Glos 01454 86 8000 Houses of Multiple Occupancy (HMO) South Glos 01454 86 8004 Homecare and home help South Glos 01454 86 8007 Homechoice lettings South Glos 01454 86 8005 Housing and homeless South Glos 01454 615 165 Household waste and recycling centres South Glos 01454 86 8000 Housing benefit South Glos 01454 86 8002 Lanes South Glos 01454 86 8000

Get in touch Town council office Tel: 01454 866 698; Leisure Centre Tel: 01454 866686; or our website www. filtontowncouncil.gov.uk

Service required Responsibility Phone Numbers Leisure and Culture South Glos 01454 86 8006 Leisure Centre – Filton Sports & Leisure Filton Town Council 01454 866686 Libraries South Glos 01454 86 8006 Licensing South Glos 01454 86 8001 Litter South Glos 01454 86 8000 Marriage – registration South Glos 01454 86 3140 Merlin Housing Office (Patchway) Merlin HS 0300 123 2222 Meals on wheels South Glos 01454 86 5996 Noise nuisance South Glos 01454 86 8001 Nurseries and pre schools South Glos 01454 86 8008 One stop shops South Glos 01454 86 8002 Open spaces South Glos 01454 86 8000 Parks and Play Area South Glos 01454 86 8000 Parks and Play Areas (Filton) Filton Town Council 01454 86 6698 Parking enforcement South Glos 01454 86 8000 Pest Control South Glos 01454 86 8001 Planning South Glos 01454 86 8004 Public rights of way South Glos 01454 86 8004 Public toilets South Glos 01454 86 8000 Recycling South Glos 01454 86 8000 Refuse collections South Glos 01454 86 8000 Rubbish Tips South Glos 01454 86 8000 Schools South Glos 01454 86 8008 Sort It Centres South Glos 01454 86 8000 Swimming – Dolphin Pool Filton Town Council 01454 86 6686 StreetCare South Glos 01454 86 8000 Streetlights South Glos 01454 86 8000 Trading standards South Glos 03454 040506 Traffic Management South Glos 01454 86 3640 Traffic signals South Glos 01454 86 3640 Travellers South Glos 01454 86 3876 Trees South Glos 01454 86 8000 Tree preservation orders South Glos 01454 86 8004 Walking to Health South Glos 01454 86 8006 Waste South Glos 01454 86 8000 Youth Centres General Enquiries South Glos 01454 86 8008 South Gloucestershire Council, Civic Centre, Kingswood, South Glos BS15 0DR www.southglos.gov.uk Filton Town Council, Elm Park, Filton, South Glos, BS34 7PS www.filtontowncouncil.gov.uk Tel: 01454 866698 Filton Sports & Leisure Centre, Elm Park, Filton, South Glos BS34 7PS www.filtonleisurecente.co.uk Tel: 01454 866686 Merlin Housing Society, Patchway Office, 5 – 7 The Parade, Patchway, BS34 5LP www.merlinhs.co.uk | Tel: 0300 1232222

The leisure centre reception is open during these hours: Mondays 9am – 7.45pm Tuesdays 9am-8.15pm,

Wednesdays, Thursday and Fridays 9am – 7.30pm Saturdays & Sundays 9am-5.30pm Pop in and see us or ring on 01454 866686 for information.

Filton Town Council Filton Leisure Centre, Elm Park Council meetings September

23rd, 7.00pm Planning Committee Small Meeting Room 30th, 7.30pm Full Council Meeting Bethany Hall, Conygre

NOTE CHANGE OF VENUE

Refurbishment

Recently the centre has been going through a small refurbishment and a freshen up. We hope that you like the changes when you re-join us for a swim. We would like to take this opportunity to thank all our visitors for their understanding during the closure. Both pools will be open as normal from 4th September.

Outside facilities –

Our play area work has now been completed along with ‘The Hatch’ our new outdoor food and drink kiosk. The area has a new play zone for older children as well as an updated play area for our younger visitors. We hope that everyone has the opportunity to come and try it all out. Don’t forget we also have the new outdoor fitness area for all to use free of charge. See story on Pages 3-5.

*Weekend timings changing

There will be changes to the weekend timetable as of September 1st 2014. Please ensure you check our new timetable on our website. www.filtontowncouncil.gov.uk for more information.

Swimming Lessons

The new swimming lesson terms start on Monday 8th September, please ensure that you have re-booked with us to guarantee places. Did you know we also cater for adults who want to learn to swim? Age is not a barrier, if you want to learn to swim and there are no age restrictions with our adult swimming lessons. Programmes are designed for adults who lack water confidence and are non-swimmers.

Along with our adult lessons we offer an over 50’s session every Friday from 2pm – 3pm so please come along and try it out.

Please note – Lesson pre-booking is essential as places are limited.

At the Ratepayers

Join us at the Ratepayers Arms!

The team at the Ratepayers (behind the leisure centre at Elm Park) would like to extend a warm welcome to the residents of Filton.

We now have our new soft seating installed and also are able to show all live games not only on Sky Sports but also BT Sports. Our snack bar is also open to provide hot or cold food at reasonable prices; we also offer a 20 percent discount on food to any member of the public who has used the leisure centre facilities.

If you enjoy a game of bingo then why not join us on Thursday nights from 8pm prizes to be won. On Saturdays from 4-7 all beers, lagers and ciders are just £2.50 per pint.

Finally if you are looking to book a function then why not use our main hall, the hire of the hall is free subject to terms and conditions, please call 01454 866697 to book.

QUIZ night September 21st New Teams Welcome!!!

All the money raised at the quizes will go to the Great Western Air Ambulance.

Aqua Aerobics

Aqua offers you something different to a traditional gym workout and you’ll really see a difference in your overall health and fitness.

Typical Aqua Aerobics classes will involve all the exercises you would expect in a ‘dry’ class but with added bonuses you can only get from exercising in water. Water supports the body, putting less stress on your joints and muscles • This support is great if you’re older, have suffered an injury or are recovering from illness • Water pressure helps the heart move blood around the body, putting less strain on it • The impact of gravity is less in the water allowing a greater range of motion • Working out in water can also prevent overheating, helping you exercise for longer.

• And... it’s fun! It is not often you can say that about a workout.

Please call if you would like any more information on 01454 866686, or email swimming@filtontowncouncil.gov.uk

Activities at Filton Sports & Leisure Do you know we are more than just a swimming pool. We have badminton, squash, snooker, tennis courts and 5 side football courts all on offer. We also have a skate and bmx park as well as a children’s play area.

For any more information please give us a call on 01454-866686 www.filtontowncouncil.gov.uk Scott Fessey, General Manager Filton Sports & Leisure Centre, Elm Park, Filton BS34 7PS 01454-866687

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The Carolina Chocolate Drops: A M TUR St George’s Hall, Bristol

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140-144 Ashley Down Road, Horfield, Bristol BS7 9JS

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Fax: 0117 952 0420

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or get in touch with owners Pete Coles and Steve Hale

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Independent Ford specialist but any make or model welcome for Service, Repairs, Air Conditioning & MOTs

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research, covers like Hank Williams’ ‘Please Don’t Let Me Love You’ and Ethel Waters’ ‘No Man’s Mama’, an upbeat song about divorce, or an almost incantatory piece of Gaelic mouth music, its power and versatility was never less than astounding.

My absolute favourite was ‘Waterboy’, a traditional American folk song based on the call ‘Water boy, where are you hidin’?’, one of several water boy calls in cotton plantation folk tradition and positively bone-shivering.

Rarely have I seen such uniformly ecstatic faces exiting a gig. If traditional music is your thing, do yourself a favour and check them out.

SHIO A

Police are asking young people in Filton to share their views with them as they launch a new website.

Avon and Somerset has created the new site for 13-18 year-olds which signposts to articles and websites with advice on life, love and the internet. www.burnttoast.org. uk went live last month and aims to engage and empower young people to build healthy relationships.

In the lead up to the launch we have been asking young people for their views and experiences via a survey and series of online polls. 400 young people have so far given us their opinions and officers used their feedback to create burnttoast. org.uk, which will continue to develop as we speak to more 1318 year-olds.

Articles include advice and links on topics such as sexting and online safety.

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Tel: 0117 951 2285

Force launches new website for 13-18s

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took us on a historical journey through her native North Carolina and the southern United States.

Not that anyone should assume that the respect with which the members of band approach their musical heritage makes for a staid and unimaginative performance.

The variety of instruments used, from fiddle, cello, guitar and banjo to cajón, djembe and bones, and the exuberant skill with which they were played, was riveting.

But for me it was Giddens’ sublime voice that defined the evening. Whether she was singing her own songs, inspired by the slave stories she’d encountered in her

September, 2014

News

S

FE The Carolina Chocolate Drops is an old-time string band, formed in 2005 to promote a wide range of African American music, from country and blues, early jazz and string band numbers to African and Caribbean songs and spoken word.

Its line-up has changed several times in the intervening years, the sole remaining founder member Rhiannon Giddens currently joined by multi-instrumentalists Hubby Jenkins and Rowan Corbett, and virtuosic cellist Malcolm Parson (surely the coolest man on the planet).

A rapt St George’s audience listened and even jigged in their seats a little as vocalist Giddens

www.filtonvoice.co.uk

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filtonvoice OPST HOTO H P with Deborah Harvey

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City Brunel centre site

Opening hours Mon-Fri, 8.30am-5.30pm Sat, 8.30am-12.30pm

The home of fair priced funerals 177 Crow Lane, Henbury, BS10 7DR Tel: 0117 950 8066 Web: www.bcmfuneralservices.co.uk

To advertise, contact Sarah on 0778 061 2846, Sarah@filtonvoice.co.uk or Richard on 0777 555 0607 or Emma on 0771 577 0448.

September, 2014

filtonvoice

E: richard@filtonvoice.co.uk

www.filtonvoice.co.uk

Chicken tonight?

Ingredients

• Chicken boneless 1/2 kg (you can use quorn or leave out the chicken for a vegetarian option) • Chick peas boiled 2 cups • Red onion 3 tbsp • White cumin 1-1/2 tsp • Curry Powder 1/2 tsp • Coriander 1 tbsp • Red and Green pepper 1 tsp • Tomato paste 2 tbsp • Yogurt whipped 1/2 cup • Ginger garlic paste 1 tbsp • Ginger juliennes 1 tbsp • Coriander leaves 3 tbsp • Fresh cream 4 tbsp • Butter 1 tbsp • Olive Oil 2 tbsp

Cooking Directions

1. Heat up oil and butter in a pan and fry the ginger garlic paste for 2 minutes.

2. Add chicken in it (use quorn or leave out chicken for vegetarian option) and fry for 5 minutes.

3. Add curry powder, green and red pepper, coriander, red onion, tomato paste and yogurt.

4. Cover with lid and cook for 10 minutes.

5. Add boiled chick peas, cream, julienne ginger, green chilies (for spicy version) and all spices.

6. Cover with lid and cook for 10 minutes at a slow flame.

7. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and serve.

Improve your home and stay Warm and Well...

For free, impartial and local energy advice, call the Warm and Well advice line and speak to one of our trained energy advisors.

0800 500 3076 Text WARM to 83010 warmandwell@severnwye.org.uk www.warmandwell.co.uk

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In the first in a new series, Sam Mohammed from Maniks in Filton brings you this tasty dish, Chana Chicken

ANDREW MURLEY Digital Aerial Installations TV / DVD Repairs 20 Years’ Experience Freeview & Digital Recorders, Sales & Installations.

Tel. 01454 774045 / 07890 336310

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

In brief

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l People in Filton are being invited to join South Gloucestershire’s Viewpoint citizen panel?

The authority is looking for new members to join the panel and have a say on council services, particularly in the following areas where we have fewer members: Bradley Stoke, Dodington, Downend, Filton, Frenchay, Hanham, Kingswood and Yate.

As a panel member and resident of South Gloucestershire, members will be asked to take part in six online surveys in a year providing feedback on our services.

Previous topics covered have included setting council tax levels, perceptions of community safety and the fear of crime and satisfaction with the library service.

Future topics include heritage, sports and setting the council’s budget.

You need to be at least 16 years of age to take part.

Councillors and employees of South Gloucestershire Council cannot join the panel.

To find out more or to register your interest visit www. southglos.gov.uk/viewpoint or email viewpoint@southglos. gov.uk l There will be a table top sale on Saturday, 20th September, 2014 at St. Andrew’s Methodist Church Hall, Elm Park, Filton, Bristol, 10.30 a.m. - 12.30 p.m. in aid of Church funds.

Enquiries or bookings tel.

0117 9799233. l Westerly Showband are presently extending a welcome to all adult wind players from the Filton area who are thinking of joining a band or orchestra.

The band is looking forward to the concert season and, like all good bands, are on the look-out for new players.

Ideally applicants will be of a good standard and have had some brass band, wind band or orchestral experience. They will find the music both varied and interesting and will be under the baton of a qualified and experience (and friendly!) conductor. Rehearsals are on Monday in Downend.

For information, look at www.westerlyshowband.com or speak to the music director personally on 0117 9561950.

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filtonvoice

www.filtonvoice.co.uk

September, 2014

Cheswick Village news

Village to get South Glos’s first car club scheme Residents in Cheswick Village will soon be able to take advantage of a City Car Club vehicle, the Filtonvoice can report.

Discussions are still taking place between South Glos Council and the car club regarding the time scale, and a launch date is still yet to be confirmed.

However, Filtonvoice understands that the vehicle will be available to all residential and corporate members in the next few months, and will be a low emission hybrid car.

This will be the first City Car Club vehicle in South Glos.

The club - which gives members access to a self-service car, from as little as £4.95 an hour - has more than 60 vehicles operating in Bristol, with 800 vehicles in 17 cities nationwide.

The club has a membership of around 31,000 people.

The cars are parked in a variety of on-street bays, as well as in private residences and public car parks.

According to the car club, the popularity of the vehicle hire company is a result of minimum parking availability within central areas, and contributes to the sustainable urban transport

plan for the city. Members also walk, cycle and use public transport more than the UK average, the club says.

A City Car Club spokesperson said: “We are really looking forward to adding more vehicles to the area as demand grows to give our members even more choice.”

Members can sign up online, with a follow-up call service to verify licence details.

As soon as members receive their memberships card and pack, they are able to drive straight away.

The company pays for the

insurance, fuel and servicing, while members pay by the hour or day for the time they reserve the vehicles.

A variety of vehicles are on offer to suit members’ needs, whether its for quick errands, or to move house. Vehicles range from small run-around cars and estates, to seven-seaters and vans. Their vehicles also emit 33 percent less CO2 than the average UK vehicle.

Prices start from £4.95 per hour or £25 per day.

For more information about City Car Club, visit: www. citycarclub.co.uk

l A new Scout Group is being started at Wallscourt Farm Academy in Cheswick Village, opening this month.

In preparation for this there were a couple of open evenings last month to give young people a chance to have a go at some scouting activities and for adults/parents to come meet the team and have a chat. If anyone wants to know more then they can either email Jeff at 3rdwallscourtfarm@gmail.com or visit website www.3rdwallscourtfarm.org.uk

Primary involved in global reading day Wallscourt Farm Academy was among 20 schools taking part in International Literacy Day earlier this month.

International Literacy Day is a UNESCO sponsored day on the world calendar.

To mark the day, all the local schools (17 primaries and three secondary schools in total in the Filton, Patchway, Bradley Stoke, Little Stoke, Stoke Gifford and Cheswick area) were taking part in a ‘reading wave’ – all day – as everyone in the school, including all staff members, dropped everything and read for up to 30 minutes.

The wave built through the day as each school participated for 30 minutes before the wave rolled on to the next school.

Other schools involved included Filton Hill Primary, Shield Road Primary, Charborough Road Primary and Abbeywood Community School.

By taking part, schools were seeking to build a greater awareness and understanding of the importance of reading and writing in pupils’ daily lives.

Schools across the world were running activities in their classrooms or the whole school to recognise International Literacy Day and the impact of literacy on their lives and around the world.

Schools were also asking pupils and parents to bring in books that they want to donate to local charity shops. www.unesco.org/new/en/ unesco/events/prizes-andcelebrations/celebrations/ international-days/literacy-day

H&P Aerials Digital, Freeview and Freesat specialists

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For a free quote 0117 908 7232 or 07815 029775 To advertise, contact Sarah on 0778 061 2846, Sarah@filtonvoice.co.uk or Richard on 0777 555 0607 or Emma on 0771 577 0448.

September, 2014

E: richard@filtonvoice.co.uk

Sport

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www.filtonvoice.co.uk

Club’s anniversary celebration

Calling all ex St Vallier players.... As part of the club’s fortieth anniversary celebrations we would love to hear your memories and stories of playing for St Vallier. If you have any you would be happy to share please send them to ...

Stvallieryds@ googlemail. com

As part of St Vallier AFC’s 40th Anniversary celebrations, over eighty boys and girls gathered at the side of Filton’s cycle speedway track in Elm Park for a large group photo. The club now has nine teams at all ages from Under 6s to Under 14s, and every group is represented in the picture.

Most of the children are wearing their 40th Anniversary Commemorative T-shirt.

The club chairman is Ray Edwards (seated 3rd from right) who has been with St Vallier since 1980 and has been in his current position for more than ten years. Ray commented that he is extremely proud to have been associated with the club for so long and is delighted that St Vallier have reached their fortieth year. “This photo and the number of children here today shows just how far this club has come since 2007 when we were nearly forced to fold,” he said.

SR Homecare Safe Reliable Homecare

Are you fed up with your current care provider?

Unhappy with the times they turn up?

We can assist with: • Personal care • Support with medication • Meal planning and preparation • Shopping • Domestic tasks including laundry • Hospital appointments Care doesn’t have to be expensive and you may be eligible for help towards the cost of your home care by a direct payment from the government which we will be happy to discuss with you.

For information or to arrange a person centred assessment:

Tel: 07982 101585

The Pavilion, Filton Leisure Centre, Elm Park, Filton, BS34 7PS. Mondays 5.00 pm. & 7 pm Contact: Carolyn - 01454 898494

The Pavilion, Filton Leisure Centre, Elm Park, Filton, BS34 7PS. Tuesdays 10.00 am Contact: Maxine - 01179 792391

Horfield Leisure Centre,

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

Contact: Carolyn - 01454 898494

Email safereliablehomecare@googlemail.com Or if you prefer you are more than welcome to pop into the

Cameron Centre Cameron Walk, Lockleaze, Bristol, BS7 9XB

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

To Yate Service every 30 minutes* 06.20-20.25 81, 82

To Kingswood 4 services per hour* 05.55-21.27 81, 319

Buses from Bristol Parkway

To Bradley Stoke & The Mall Service every 10 mins* 06.09-02.27 73, X73, 319

To Bristol Service every 10 mins* 05.22-01.30 73, X73

To Southmead Hospital 6 services per hour* hour 05.40-23.13 18, 82, 501, 502 Other Services are available please visit www.travelwest.info for more information. *Frequencies quoted are based on Mon-Fri off peak daytime services.

parkway ad.indd 1

13/08/2014 10:14

September, 2014

E: richard@filtonvoice.co.uk

News

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Can we have our crutches back?

The Filtones Choir had great pleasure in presenting the charity “Action for M.E.” with a cheque for £1,000 following its annual charity concert held this year at St Peter’s Church, Henleaze.

The cheque is being presented by Filtones’ Chairman, Niall O’Doherty, left, and MD Mike Watson to Emily, a representative of the charity.

Special thanks should go to Julia Hwang, the virtuoso violinist from Clifton College, who performed at the concert and attracted a large audience on this occasion.

The Filtones’ next concert will be on Friday 26th September, 7.30 p.m. at Eden Grove Methodist Church, Horfield, in aid of church funds, and its Christmas Concert, also at Eden Grove Methodist Church, will be on Friday 5th December 2014.

NEW CREW toat e compet FC annual als n io at Intern

www.filtonvoice.co.uk

Former patients from Filton are being encouraged to return crutches they no longer need as part of an amnesty at Southmead Hospital Bristol.

The emergency department hands out 25 pairs of crutches to patients on average daily.

But only a few pairs are returned to the unit each day.

The North Bristol NHS Trust emergency department, which transferred from Frenchay Hospital in May, is encouraging people to seek out any crutches they may have at home and return them to A&E. Emergency department matron Juliette Hughes said: “People may have forgotten about their crutches and they could be in the garage, or it may be that they haven’t returned them because they are broken. ” If you have crutches at home please return them to the reception of the emergency department inside the Brunel building, Southmead Hospital.

Heron Way Consultants

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SCHOOL OF DANCE

Even if your bank has said NO

Call Martin Powell 01454 326892 martin@heronwaygroup.com

Street & Hip - Hop Dance Modern, Jazz & Contemporary MONDAY @ St Andrews Methodist Church, Elm Park, Filton BS34 7PS 5.45pm Street Dance Under 12 yrs 6.30pm & Body Tone Adult All levels TUESDAY @ Coniston Community Centre, The Parade, Patchway BS34 5LP Ballet Basics & Modern Jazz 4.00pm 3-8 yrs 4.45pm Street Dance Under 12 yrs 5.30pm OPEN Street Crew All ages 6.30pm Adult All levels

TRY A CLASS FOR ONLY £5 Tel 07871436600 www.danceworks.uk.com liesel@danceworks.uk.com

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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September, 2014

Coming up soon in Filton Filton Library

Thursday 25th Sep, 7.30pm ‘The Luftwaffe’s Attack On the Aircraft Industry In South Glos 1940-1942’ Hurry and get your free ticket for a talk by John Penny at www.eventbrite.co.uk or ask library staff. Part of the Discover Festival 2014 Cake & Crafts Party For Pete Monday 29th Sep 10.30am-12 Would you like to try making your own cards or jewellery?

Come along & join in whilst supporting this local charity. All proceeds to charity. Part of the Discover Festival 2014 Thursday 2nd October 7.30pm ‘The Luftwaffe’s Attack On The Aircraft Industry In South Gloucestershire 19401942’ See 25 Sep

Tuesday 7th, 6pm Filton Library Users Group Interested in joining the Library Users’ Group? Or raise any matters of interest or concern about your library service?

You are welcome to attend the meeting or contact the Librarian Clare Fletcher beforehand. 01454 868006 Saturday 11th 2:30pm Chatterbooks is a free reading group for children aged 8 -12.

If you are interested in joining please ask the library staff.

Thursday 16th 7.30pm Wartime Radio Broadcasting Hurry and get your free ticket for a talk by John Penny at www. eventbrite.co.uk Saturday 25th 10.30am Northavon Singers Join us for a free concert.

Refreshments provided, all donations to charity.

Story & Rhyme Time For pre-school children and their carers. Every Tuesday at 9.30am and every Friday at 2.30pm Knitting Group Every Thursday 5.45 - 6.45pm Free One-to-One IT Sessions Thursday and Saturday mornings Booking is required 01454 868006 Stop Smoking Sessions Thursdays 3-4pm Appointments must be booked in advance 01454 865502 smokefree@southglos.gov.uk filton.library@southglos.gov.uk

Sat 13 September Charborough Road Primary Car Boot sale, see advert on Page 40.

Fri 26 September St. Andrew’s Methodist Church, Elm Park, Filton is holding a coffee morning in aid of Macmillan Biggest Coffee Morning events on Friday 26th September, 10.00am until 12 noon in their Church Hall.

Sat 27 September Filton Community Garden Macmillan charity coffee event, see poster on Page 17

Fri 17 October The New Harmony Ladies’ Choir Bristol, 20th Anniversary Concert at St Teresa of the Child Jesus Church, Gloucester Road North, Filton. The choir will be performing a very special programme and singing a variety

of songs, Soloists are “The Four” - 4 very accomplished young lady singers who started their singing together at Redland High School.

The Choir is conducted by David Whitehead, and accompanied by John Lowe. Tickets - £8 from a member of the choir, on the door or from 0117 9571785.

Sat 18 October

10.30 am - 12.30 pm, Indoor As New Sale, Shield Road Primary School. Register as a seller, label and price your goods and drop off and we sell on your behalf. Come back after the sale to collect your money - no need to man a pitch! We keep 20% of sales for fundraising which will be split between Friends of Shield Road School, BRACE (Research into Altheimer’s disease) and the National Autistic Society. To register and receive a seller information pack please email jeanne.clements@ blueyonder.co.uk.

Sat 25 October

Early bird Christmas Fayre, 10am-4pm, St Teresa’s Social Centre, Gloucester Road North, Filton. There will be a skittles knockout for all the family, cream teas, unique gifts and much more. See advert on Page 14.

Filton Town Council

Meeting dates, Page 25

Regular events in Filton Turn to Pages 44/45

If you have an event or group you want to highlight, please contact richard@filtonvoice.co.uk or call 0777 555 0607

South Glos. Ladies Lunch Club

Would you like to be a lady who lunches ? Why not join our friendly Ladies Lunch club.

We meet 12.15 - 3pm on the 2nd Thursday of the month, OctMarch at The Old School Hall, Lower Almondsbury for a 3 course lunch plus coffee followed by a speaker or event.

Membership is £16.00 for the 6 months plus lunch at £7.50. All guests would be made most welcome - guests lunch is £5.00 only.

We look forward to seeing you there - please telephone Hilary Broad on 01454 619554 or 07876 666458 for further information or to confirm your visit. l Filton Garden Club is looking for new members. The group meets at 7.30pm on the first Wednesday of every month except January, at St. Teresa’s Social Club, behind St. Teresa’s Church. The group have speakers & slideshows on various aspects of gardens & plants, & run coach trips to places of interest.

For further information contact Pat or Brian Smith on 0117 9759126.

To advertise, contact Sarah on 0778 061 2846, Sarah@filtonvoice.co.uk or Richard on 0777 555 0607 or Emma on 0771 577 0448.

September, 2014

E: richard@filtonvoice.co.uk

filtonvoice

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Filton business news

Clare launches new web service for care homes A Filton woman is launching a new website focused on allowing care home providers to fully manage their latest room availability.

Care Homes Now – www. carehomesnow.com – is the first dedicated self-service letting agency for 17,000 plus care homes across England.

It provides a platform for owners and managers to advertise, as well as for people researching room availability, and has been created by Clare Fraser, pictured right.

“I have personal experience of dealing with the care system and I know what a tortuous and stressful process it can be – anything aimed at making the process easier is to be welcomed,” she said.

“In the current financial climate we know that up to 20 per cent of a care home’s profit can be lost when the last few rooms are unoccupied.

“We also recognise the need to find suitable accommodation at sometimes very short notice, so Care Homes Now will be a quick and easy way to find up-todate accommodation for families, friends and the NHS looking for good quality care for loved ones within their chosen location.

“There are thousands of brilliant, caring establishments out there, working around the clock, every day of every week, delivering superb care and showing huge commitment to residents and their family

members - they just need to be found quickly and easily.

“Recommendations can also be left on the site to help others make a more informed decision, although nothing can ever take the place of visiting the care home itself - our website is just one of the first stepping-stones to help along the way. This is often an emotional time for all involved and it is definitely not a ‘one size fits all’.

“Our aim is to be the go-to website, providing the latest room availability across the

whole of the UK. The site has a clean, modern feel and is designed for today’s technology, being fully responsive to all mobile devices.

“Care Homes Now is a modern, simple and affordable solution which will save people both time and money.”

The site, which launches next month, is offering a three-month free trial to all care homes in England and Clare has also pledged to donate 5 per cent of the site’s profits each year to charities for the elderly.

JACK LOPRESTI MP

Member of Parliament for Filton and Bradley Stoke

Jack holds surgeries on Fridays at different locations across the constituency - to make an appointment please contact: 01454 617 783 jack.lopresti.mp@parliament.uk Jack’s drop-in constituency office is at

2B, 1st Floor East, The Willowbrook Centre, Savages Wood Road, Bradley Stoke, Bristol BS32 8BS

Open 9-6 weekdays

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Filton supermarket backs MS centre Sainsbury’s East Filton has announced that The West of England MS Therapy Centre will receive a year’s worth of fundraising and awareness support.

The centre helps people who suffer from multiple sclerosis will be the new Local Charity for the East Filton store.

The store team will also be fundraising for the new charity by holding a customer raffle.

The retailer’s Local Charity scheme is now in its sixth year and gives customers the chance to vote for their favourite local charity to be considered to receive a year’s worth of support from their Sainsbury’s store.

The scheme has raised over £6 million to support local charities since 2009.

The East Filton store, situated in Foxden Road has had great success in supporting local charities and last year raised £7635 for Children’s Hospice South West. The West of England MS Therapy Centre will be using the money to continue the work at the hospice for children with life limiting illnesses.

Terri McDonald from The West of England MS Therapy Centre said: “We hope the partnership will help raise awareness of our cause to the store’s customers.”

Sainsbury’s East Filton Store Manager Steve Jones said: “We’re delighted to have chosen a charity which touched many of our colleagues’ hearts. We will be working closely with the charity to ensure they really benefit from being our Local Charity.”

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September, 2014

Fashion ... with Amy McQueen

Back to work

with a ba(n)g

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After a summer of carefree holidaying and catching up on much-needed slumber, September is here and you’re back to reality. Whether it is back to school, university, work or for everyday use, everybody needs a bag to carry around their essentials. (Essentials in female terms meaning everything but the kitchen sink).

Oversized totes are what’s trending at the moment, which works well as they are practical for all those pencil cases, workbooks, diaries and, most importantly, your lunch box among the receipts and half a pack of chewing gum.

If it’s a fashion accessory or statement investment bag to last, both are available at the Mall Cribbs Causeway in an assortment of colours to spice up the strict uniforms we all wish we could break away from.

1. Jewelled Shopper, £75 from Next

2. Autograph Leather Rucksack, £99 from Marks & Spencer 3. Monochrome Contrast Duffle Bag, £17.99 from New Look 4. Daphne Leopard Print, £110 from Dune 5. Taupe Pembridge Double Handle Bag, £995 by Mulberry at John Lewis 6. MIPAC Nordic Burgundy Backpack, £22 from JD Sports 7. Red Structured Shopper, £38 from Warehouse

PS Over the summer I received my A level results in English language, geography and biology from Abbeywood School. Now I’m off to begin a degree in Journalism, Media and Cultural Studies at Cardiff University, one of the best place in the UK to study journalism. Writing for Filtonvoice has given me valuable experience, which was definitely a major contributing factor to getting a university offer and then a confirmed place!

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To advertise, contact Sarah on 0778 061 2846, Sarah@filtonvoice.co.uk or Richard on 0777 555 0607 or Emma on 0771 577 0448.

September, 2014

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Fun day with Youth Council

Filton’s Youth Council - which brings young people together for the good of the community - held a summer holiday fun day at Elm Park last month.

The event included a popular climbing wall along with a treasure hunt, face painting, crafts, games and a barbecue. It was organised for families in Filton and profits will be used to fund similar events.

The Youth Council gathers to discuss issues and recently outlined its plans for an anti-bullying initiative to the town council

Filton Veterinary Centre 26 Station Road, Filton, Bristol, BS34 87JQ Tel: 0117 9693621

Free microchipping for dogs April 2014 to March 2015 at Filton Veterinary Centre Have you got time to wait?

Will you have the money to pay?

From 6th April 2016 it will be compulsory by law for every dog to be microchiped. If found without one owners will have to pay for their pet to be microchiped or face a fine of up to ÂŁ500.

Call us now to speak to a member of our friendly team and to book an appointment on: 0117 9693621 Or Visit our website www.filtonveterinarycentre.co.uk

As part of the Premier Veterinary Group the Filton Veterinary centre offer a free delivery service to your door for all your Pet Food, Medication, Flea & Worming products.

Call the delivery team today 0117 970 4133

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

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September, 2014

Struggling for WORK? Looking for a JOB? • Recruiting employers • CV workshops • Help on interview techniques • Debt advice

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To advertise, contact Sarah on 0778 061 2846, Sarah@filtonvoice.co.uk or Richard on 0777 555 0607 or Emma on 0771 577 0448.

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September, 2014

Last Class

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... last month we celebrated our Year 6 primary pupils as they prepared to make the big jump to secondary school in September. Here is the group from St Teresa’s Primary

St Teresa’s Primary • CLASS PHOTO

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September, 2014

Families out in force for residents’ fun day in park Hundreds of people enjoyed a great day out at Merlin Housing Society’s annual resident fun day.

Guests were entertained by the Rockwood Dog Display Team, the King Edmund’s Acrogymnastics team and a stiltwalking balloon modeller, with music from Bradley Stoke Radio playing throughout the day.

Other attractions at the event at Elm Park in Filton last month included a helter skelter, fun house, bouncy castles, coconut shy and a chance to meet the Gruffalo. There were also plenty of challenges for residents, including giant jigsaw puzzles, tent making and a pirate treasure hunt.

Neighbourhood housing team leader Claire Cook, who organised the event, said: “It was a fantastic day and it was wonderful to see so many residents and their families come along and enjoy themselves.

Everyone had a smile on their face and that was the most important thing for us.

“We’ve picked up lots of feedback about how we can improve our services and residents also voted on which charity we should raise money for over the next year.

“We’re delighted to say that the Bristol-based Brandon Trust, which supports people with learning disabilities, including some of our residents, won the vote. And they’ll benefit straightaway as we raised money on the day which we’ll be donating to them.”

To advertise, contact Sarah on 0778 061 2846, Sarah@filtonvoice.co.uk or Richard on 0777 555 0607 or Emma on 0771 577 0448.

September, 2014

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WAY-A-HEAD

For ladies and gentlemen

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Professional hairdressers in Filton Our friendly team are looking forward to seeing you

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VET

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September, 2014

with Michael Parry of Vets4Pets in Filton

Kennel cough Did you know, Kennel Cough isn’t just caught in Kennels?

Veterinary surgeon and practice partner Michael Parry of Vets4Pets Filton says “Kennel Cough is a highly contagious disease that can affect dogs of all ages.

“Although, as the name suggests, Kennel Cough is often picked up when dogs stay in boarding kennels, they are just as likely to catch it whenever they are close to other dogs, so at training classes and even whilst playing in the park.”

“Most boarding kennels won’t accept your dog unless they have been vaccinated beforehand.

“Dogs will normally require to be vaccinated at least three weeks before they visit the kennels” says Michael. “It is

also important to know that your dog’s yearly booster vaccination does not protect against Kennel Cough.”

For more information on Kennel Cough or advice on keeping your pet happy and healthy visit vets4pets.com/ filton or contact Michael Parry and his team at Vets4Pets Filton on 0117 969 8400.

Protect

your pet from Kennel Cough It isn’t just caught in kennels Did you know?

Your dog can catch Kennel Cough just by playing in the local park.

Vets4Pets Filton Call 0117 969 8400 or visit vets4pets.com/filton Shield Retail Centre, Gloucester Road, Filton, BS34 7BQ

PET HEALTHCARE VOUCHER

£15 Kennel Cough Vaccination Protect your pet today!

Offer valid until 30th September 2014 at Vets4Pets and Companion Care Filton only. Appointment necessary, please call ahead to make your appointment, which may be chargeable. Must bring voucher to qualify for offer. Terms and conditions apply, please see website for further details.

Companion Care Bristol Filton Call 0117 979 9200 or visit ccvets.co.uk/bristolfilton Inside Pets at Home, Abbey Wood Retail Park, Station Road, Bristol, BS34 7JL

To advertise, contact Sarah on 0778 061 2846, Sarah@filtonvoice.co.uk or Richard on 0777 555 0607 or Emma on 0771 577 0448.

September, 2014

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Sport Will continues super summer with victory in northern event A young Filton golfer is celebrating after winning a prestigious tournament in the north of England.

Will Lewis, 12, who lives in Filton Park, recently competed in the ‘North Of England Golf Championship’ which was held at South Moor Golf Club in County Durham.

Will won the U12 competition with rounds of 79 & 80 and finished in 8th place in the U14 competition which was played in very blustery conditions.

Will is a member at Long Ashton Golf Club and has a current handicap of 6.9.

This win caps off a very

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good summer of golf which started with him winning the ‘U14 Gloucestershire County Championship’ & 3rd place in the U16 Championship whilst he was only 11 years old.

He also played in the ‘US Kids European Championships’ held at Cragie Law golf club in East Lothian, Will ended up in 8th place after the 3 rounds which is a good result but said he could and should have done better.

With the main golfing season almost at an end he still has a few U14 & U16 Gloucestershire county matches to play against Glamorgan & Worcestershire.

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T: 0777 555 0607 42 filtonvoice Property of the Month, with 11A Seventh Avenue

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September, 2014

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Ocean, 8 Gloucester Road North, Filton, BS7 0SF. 0117 904 4000, www.oceanhome.co.uk

Team mark long-running success – with a long run It’s 30 years since Ocean started selling homes in Bristol, from a single tiny office in Gloucester Road. And the company, which has grown to be the city’s biggest-selling independent estate agent, has continued its summer of celebrations in style, with a charity run/relay with a difference.

The idea was born when one of the Ocean team noticed that a route taking in all of the firm’s eight offices around the city

would, coincidentally, be exactly 30 miles long. So it seemed like a nice way to celebrate the anniversary, while raising money for the Julian Trust.

The “Ocean 30” took place on July 30. Since the company doesn’t have many genuine marathon runners, they decided to do it as a relay, with teams starting from the Bishopston office and others taking over along the way, including walkers and a cycling group, who started

from the Shirehampton office.

Tom Weaver, assistant manager in Knowle, however, is Ocean’s one true marathon man and he ran the entire 30 miles to show his colleagues how it’s done.

When asked what of the next 30 years, a spokesperson said the team certainly wouldn’t be sitting back. “In fact, they are probably already in training for an even longer run when they reach their next big birthday.”

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September, 2014

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News Feature

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Why we must never forget

Brian Hewitt, MBE, President of the Stoke Gifford Branch of the Royal British Legion. which covers Filton, reflects on the 100th anniversary of the outbreak of World War I

One hundred years ago, the war to end all wars, “broke out”! Those last two words, “broke out”, have always been used by politicians to try and convey that War is some sort of accident, not a failure by politicians that they could not make diplomacy work.

I sometimes think that if politicians were the ones that had to go and fight we wouldn’t have any wars. But soldiers, sailors and airmen volunteer to join up, or are conscripted, to defend our country and to win the war for our side.

On the 4th of August, 1914, Britain and the Empire declared war on Germany.

But it was really on the 28th. June, 1914 when it all started. That day there was a very brutal attempt in Sarajevo Main Street, the capital of the Austrian Province in Bosnia, to assassinate the Grand Archduke, Franz Ferdinand, with a grenade.

The grenade bounced off the Duke’s car and exploded under the next car in the Parade, wounding several officers in the car and killing 20 of the crowd and injuring many others. After the dust settled the Duke wanted to visit an injured officer in the Military Hospital, before carrying on with the grand tour.

His wife insisted on accompanying her husband, nobody briefed the Duke’s driver and he took a wrong turning into a cul-de-sac, the two cars behind followed and blocked the street. A short, young hot-headed Bosnian, in the small crowd near-by calmly drew a pistol and although a policeman tried to stop him, somebody else knocked the policeman down, he fired two shots into the stopped car and killed both the Duke and his wife, Sophie.

This was the ‘trigger’ that set alight all the ambitions of the Austro-Hungarian Empire, Greater Germany, Russia and gradually the sated and secure Britain and France., and not for the first time it all concentrated on the Balkans.

organisation is the National Custodian.

The War, from 1914 to 1918, went on for four and a half years and right to the end it was horrible, very gruesome.

No, the lads did not get home for Christmas, not the first one as the Press stated and everyone wanted to believe. It was to be the “War to end all Wars”, that didn’t work either, as only 21 short years later we had the Second World War. The war we are commemorating, 100 years ago, was the First World War; Nations were quite different in 1914. For instance, Japan was on our side in that War. The war had an effect on the whole world, and everything was different after 1918.

Just over a month later, the fighting started!

This was 100 years ago.

At that time, my Grandfather Hewitt, a deep sea fisherman, who was also a Royal Naval Reservist, was already preparing for War. He had already been called to the Colours and was given a Minesweeper, as Captain.

My Dad (he joined up last, he was the youngest) and his three brothers all changed into Navy uniform and served on the sea. My Dad followed his Dad into minesweeping, this he did until 1922. There were a lot of mines in the sea. My maternal Grandfather went into the Royal Horse Artillery. All came back, although my granddads were ‘knocked about’.

From the start of 1914, this was happening all over Britain.

I’m sure if you check back a similar situation was happening in your family, or close family.

In our village we have a Cenotaph, on the Green, opposite the Beaufort. Inscribed on there are 13 names. Our dead from 1914 to 1918. Our senior local Scouts are tracing every family of those names.

Described above is one of the ‘Pillars’ of the Royal British Legion, it is called REMEMBRANCE and our

This war dragged millions of men into conflict and as well as killing lots of young men, a total of 1.1 million in the service of the British Empire. The War made 1.75 million disabled in some way and half of that number was permanently disabled. For the whole of the War, service people were coming home in need of help, because of their injuries.

Aid was being given by lots of small groups, but four larger, National Organisations of ExService people bore the brunt of this work.

But even those who came home relatively unscathed, struggled with employment. As a result of the War, Britain’s economy plummeted and in 1921 there were 2 million unemployed. This was a larger figure than it first seems as the overall population was much smaller.

The situation so moved a Lance Bombardier, Tom Lister a Lancastrian, that he decided if the Government was unable or unwilling to do anything to improve the lives of exservicemen, he would! Tom’s effort led to the co-operation of all the organisations looking after ex-servicemen to join together, eventually led to the formation of the British Legion in 1921.

Not only did the Legion see the gigantic task in front of them, looking after everyone who was

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suffering from the recent War, they also sought to prevent further sacrifice by constantly reminding the Nation of the human cost of War, especially the stupidity of “trench warfare”.

By the time, in mid-1921, the Legion was up and running effectively, the tradition of the annual Two Minute Silence, in memory of the fallen, had already been established. That continued and I am pleased that we carry this on today and people show their respect.

The Poppy is not new. In 1921 the British Legion held their first Poppy Appeal, using the Poppy as their emblem and the 11th November, 1921, was officially declared the first Poppy Day. A century on from the First World War, those serving in the Armed Forces, Veterans and their Families still call upon the Royal British Legion for nearly every aspect of daily life. The problems facing First World War Veterans when they returned to the UK continue to affect serving personnel and veterans today, whether living with bereavement or disability, finding employment, or coping with financial stress.

The 100 Year event is a timely reminder of way the World changed after the end of the War in 1918, however, I’m very pleased to say, the Legion will be leading the Nation in respecting the sacrifices of the First and Second World Wars.

We now spend £1.8 million each and every week on Welfare for the needy in the Service community, so you can see why we need your money, please give generously.

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September, 2014

What’s on in Filton on a regular basis Mondays

Dinky Dolphins, baby and pre-school swimming session, games music and play, 9.30am10.30am. These sessions are first come, first served. £4 for 1 adults and up to two children, Filton Sports and Leisure Centre Tea Dance, Filton Folk Centre, 1.45pm-3.45pm 0117 302 6981 Friendly Faces group: 12.30-2.30pm at St Andrew’s Methodist Youth Centre, Elm Park, BS34 7PS: £3 per session.

Adults’ sessions for anyone feeling lonely, bored, want to make new friends, get out of the house, have a cuppa and learn some new skills. There are a range of activities on offer including arts/crafts, cooking, pool, refreshments included.

Call 0117 9691938 for more information.

Tuesdays

Pre-School story and Rhyme time 9.30am, Filton Library, Shields Centre, Unity Coffee morning takes place every Tuesday (term time) starting 10-11.30 at PYRAMID Youth Club, 470 Filton Avenue, Bristol, BS7 0LW. Aqua fit Tuesdays, 9.45 – 10.30am & 7.00- 7.45pm, cost £4.50 a session, class suitable for non swimmers, participants must be 16 yrs and over, Filton Sports and Leisure Centre Keep Fit Association classes, all welcome, Filton Community Centre 2-3pm Call 0117 969 3326

Wednesdays

Filton Garden Club, St Teresa’s Social Club, 7.30pm.

1st Wednesday of every month, 0117 975 9126. Not January.

Filtones Choir. We rehearse every Wednesday afternoon from 1.45 to 3.45 p.m. at Eden Grove Methodist Church. “We are a non auditioning four part harmony choir of mainly retired ladies and gentleman who enjoy the sociability of singing together. We give afternoon concerts to organisations, such as pensioners’ clubs, all over Bristol, and at least two main evening concerts every year, one of which is in summer (our main

charity fund raising event) and at Christmas. We have sufficient sopranos at present but are actively seeking tenors, basses and ladies who can sing alto. If you would like to come along and try us out please ring our Musical Director, Mike Watson on 0117 9083778 for a chat or just come along one Wednesday afternoon and have a listen to us. You will be made very welcome.” For more information please see our web site www.filtones.co.uk Horfield Townswomens Guild are a really friendly Guild that meet on the second Wednesday of every month at St. Gregory the Great Church Hall, Filton Road, Horfield at 2.30 pm. Ladies are welcome to just turn up or ring Edna on 0117 949 5413 for a chat about the Guild.

New Harmony Ladies Choir Bristol, an established choir of 19 years and are looking for ladies to come and join us. We rehearse every Wednesday evening 7-30 - 9-30 at Horfield URC church hall, everyone welcome. Telephone Margaret on 01179698619 or Joan on 01275791566 Northavon Singers would welcome new members especially sopranos to our mixed choir of 20-singing all kinds of music. Rehearsals at St Peter’s Church Filton every Wed at 7.30pm - not August

Thursdays

Goldies meets in Filton “Singing for Fun”, songs from the 50’s, 60’s & 70’s. Every Thursday 10.30am-11.30am In Sinclair House community room (next to the police station). £1 donation to the Goldies charity.

For further information contact abby@golden-oldies.org.uk or call 01761-470006 Bristol Male Voice Choir, weekly practice at South Gloucestershire andd Stroud College, Filton Avenue, 7.15 pm.

Potential new members very welcome. Call 0117 979 3208 Knitting Group 5.45 pm – 6.45pm Thursdays, Filton Library, Shields Centre Dinky Dolphins, baby and pre-school swimming session, games music and play, 10am11am. These sessions are first

come, first served. £4 for 1 adults and up to two children, Filton Sports and Leisure Centre, term time only, term time only.

Tiddlers and toddlers playgroup, St Peter’s Church Hall, 10am-noon, term time only Filton Ladies, St Andrew’s Church Hall, 2pm-4pm, new members welcome, call 0117 904 1844 Keep Fit Association classes, all welcome, Filton Community Centre, 7.15-8.15pm 0117 969 3326 Silver surfers: St Andrew’s Methodist Youth Centre, Elm Park, BS34 7PS, 10am-noon Drop-in for ‘silver-haired’ folk (over 50yrs) to get help with accessing computers, the internet, mobile phone technology, digital cameras, and much more! Run by a dedicated team of friendly volunteers with Lisa at the helm, this supportive group is just as much a social session as it is about learning!

Come and join us! Come along anytime, just £2.50 per session with free refreshments. Does not run during August.

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

The Avon & Bristol Woodturners meet every thrid Thursday at St Teresa’s Church Hall from 7pm to approximately 10pm. For details, www.avonand-bristol-woodturners.org.uk/ Fortnightly, North Bristol Creative writing group.

Meets fortnightly. 07535111294 northbristolwriting@gmail.com St Peter’s MU (Mothers Union) 2nd Thursday of each month (except August), 2pm in the church hall. All ladies and Gentlemen invited. For more information look on St Peter’s Church web site or call 0117 9491833 or just turn up.

Work club: St Andrews Methodist Youth Centre, Elm Park, BS34 7PS, 12.30-3pm: Drop-in session, Open to all who

want some advice / guidance looking for work! Get support with CV writing, filling in job aplications, job searching, interview techniques/practise, volunteering placements, and finding local courses to get more qualifications!

Filton Library, Shields Centre, free one to one IT tuition with our Computer Support Volunteers on Tuesday afternoons. Contact the library to book a session. 10am - 1pm Filton Library, Shields Centre, Stop Smoking Sessions, 3-4pm.

Appointments must be booked in advance. 01454 865502. smokefree@southglos.gov.uk

Fridays

Dinky Dolphins, baby and pre-school swimming session, games music and play, 10am11am. These sessions are first come, first served. £4 for 1 adults and up to two children, Filton Sports and Leisure Centre, term time only, term time only.

Pre-School story and Rhyme time 2.30pm, Filton Library, Shields Centre Bingo, Filton Community Centre, 7.30pm Motown soul dance party Bawa ballroom, Filton first Friday of each month.

8.30’til 1am (last adm 10.30) strictly over 30’s – very smart casual * no tee shirts or trainers for more info. call 07860 578708 or go to www. tamlamotownsoulpartynights. co.uk Toddler Group, meets term time only at St Andrew’s Methodist Church from 10 to 11.45. A warm welcome to all toddlers and their carers.

Saturdays

9.30am – 10.30am, Filton District Councillors’ Surgery, Filton Library.

Filton Library, Shields Centre, free one to one IT tuition with our Computer Support Volunteers on Saturday mornings. Contact the library to book a session.

Monthly Chatterbooks reading

To advertise, contact Sarah on 0778 061 2846, Sarah@filtonvoice.co.uk or Richard on 0777 555 0607 or Emma on 0771 577 0448.

September, 2014

E: richard@filtonvoice.co.uk

filtonvoice

www.filtonvoice.co.uk

What’s on in Filton on a regular basis group for children in years 5 – 6.

Meets on a Saturday afternoon, Filton Library, Shields Centre.

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

Sundays

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

St Teresa’s Catholic Church, Morning Mass, 10.30am. Other masses visit www.stteresasfilton.org.uk St Andrew’s Church, Filton, 10.30am, Morning Worship; 6pm, Evening Worship Kids street dance classes(5 - 16 years of age), every Sunday @ Charborough Road Primary School, Filton, 5.15 - 6pm or 6 - 7pm (depending on age/ability), £3.50/£4.00 per session (pay as you go). Lots of fun, make new friends and very good exercise too!! Please phone Emma on 07725 612088 or email her at emmacwyatt@hotmail.com for more information.

St Andrews Youth Centre

For young people: Mondays: Duke of Edinburgh’s awards 6-7pm Youth club for 12-18s (Year 8+) 7.30-9.30pm, £1 Wednesdays: Youth club for 12-18s (Year 8+) 7.30-9.30pm, £1 Thursdays: Silver surfers 10am-12pm, £2.50 Work club (currently closed ‘til September) 12.30-3pm Youth club for young people 11-15years with learning/social difficulties or ASD 5.30-7pm, £1 Transition social club for people aged 16+ with learning/social difficulties or ASD 5.30-7pm, £1 Fridays: Street dance for 9-14year olds, 3.45-4.45pm, £4 Youth club for 9-12year olds (School Years 5,6 & 7) 5.30-7pm, £1 Plus:

Filton Friendly Faces group 12.30-2.30pm Mondays Silver surfers 10am-12pm Thursdays Work club 12.30-3pm Thursdays Debbie Teml, Youth Centre Manager (Half-time; office hours on Thursday & Fridays) St Andrews Methodist Youth Centre, Elm Park, Filton, BS34 7PS. 0117 9691938 - 07789 947506 - www.standrewsmyc. btik.com Don’t forget you can also support St Andrews Methodist Youth Centre by registering at www. easyfundraising.org.uk - then you can help us raise money when you do any online shopping with various big brand websites, without spending even a penny more! Ask us if you need more details! Thanks for your support!

Pyramid Youth Club

Juniors 5-9 yrs Thursdays 6.30 - 7.45 p.m.

Inters 10-12 yrs Mondays and Fridays 6.30 - 8.00 p.m.

Seniors 13+ Mondays and Fridays 8.00 - 10.00 p.m.

Judo Tuesdays Juniors under 13 yrs 6.30 - 7.30 p.m. and 13+ adults 7.30 - 9.00 p.m.

Juniors have a rotating programme of crafts, games, cookery and computers working in small teams.

Inters and Seniors have football, basketball, dodgeball etc. plus pool and table tennis, computer games, cookery and music.

New members are welcome.

Please ring 9691315 if you want more information. There are vacancies in all age groups.

Based at 470 Filton Avenue, contact Margaret Morris 0117 9691315

Filton Community Centre 983 6500

www.facebook.com/ FiltonCommunityCentre LIST OF CLASSES: Gymtastic Pre-School Gymnastics Club Classes on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday during term time. We welcome ALL children regardless of their needs and offer a FREE trial session.

Classes are for children who are crawling until they go to school Contact Sharon Todd on 0117 9109820 or gymtastic.ltd@ btinternet.com for more info.

Tea Dance Monday 1.45pm-3.45pm Call 07527 808206 Keep Fit Tuesday 2pm-4pm Thursday 7.30Pm-8.30Pm Call 0117 9693326 Bingo Friday 7.30pm-9.30pm Call 0117 9690311 Zumba Monday 7.30pm-8.30pm Call 07813 958673 Flower Arranging Tuesday 2pm-4pm Thursday 7.30pm-9.30pm Call 01454 412087 Dog Training Tuesday 7pm-9pm Call 01454 616630 Pilates Tuesday 7pm-9pm.

Wednesday 10Am-12Pm Call 0117 5022411 Cacti Club Tuesday (3rd Tues Of the month) Call 0117 9503604 AA Tuesday 7.30pm-9.30pm Thursday 7.30pm-9.30pm Call 07831 338085

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

45

Camera Club Wednesday 7.30pm-9.30pm (Alternate Weeks) Call 0117 9651242 Dawn James Art Club Wednesday Call 01454 616001 Short Mat Bowls Thursday 2pm-4pm Call 0117 969 1115 Line Dancing Thursday 7.30pm-9.30pm Call 07792 456988 Karate Friday 6pm-8pm Sunday 10.30am-noon Call 07951 947280

1st Filton Scouts, Cubs & Beavers

Beavers, aged 6-8, Weds 6.157.15pm Cubs, 8-101/2, Thurs 6.308.30pm Scouts, 101/2 - 14, Tues 7-9pm The group is based in Scout Headquarters, Nutfield Grove, Filton, BS34 7LH. All sections are open to boys and girls.

Contact for all sections is John Cahill (jcahill@blueyonder.co.uk), Phone 0798 605 3005)

Rainbows, Brownies and Guides Wednesdays - Rainbows, girls aged 5 - 7 years Wednesdays - Brownies, girls aged 7 - 10 years Tuesdays - Brownies, girls aged 7 - 10 years Guides, girls aged 10 - 14 years. For more information please contact : d.wilkey@ btinternet.com or register at Girlguiding UK website and follow the parent links to register your daughter.

Filton Community Garden meetings

Every second Saturday of the month at 10am-12noon in the Pavillion Room at Elm Park.

Weekdays

Coffee shop, 9am – 12:30pm, St Peter’s Church, Filton

Route from June 29 2014 Filton Ave, Blenheim Drive

10:00 11:00

12:00

13:00

Bude Road

10:03 11:03

12:03

13:03

Conygre Grove

10:04 11:04

12:04

13:04

Filton Avenue

10:05 11:05

12:05

13:05

Conygre Road

10:06 11:06

12:06

13:06

Church View

10:08 11:08

12:08

13:08

A38

10:09 11:09

12:09

13:09

Filton Roundabout

10:10 11:10

12:10

13:10

Elm Park

10:13 11:13

12:13

13:13

A38

10:15 11:15

12:15

13:15

Gloucester Road Nth, Tesco Garage

10:16 11:16

12:16

13:16

Northville Road

10:17 11:17

12:17

13:17

Bulldog Public House

10:19

11:19

12:19

13:19

The George Inn

10:21

11:21

12:21

13:21

Emma Chris Way,MOD Station

10:23

11:23

12:23

13:23

ASDA

10:29

11:29

12:29

13:29

Sainsbury,s

10:33

11:33

12:33

13:33

ASDA

10:37

11:37

12:37

13:37

Emma Chris Way, MOD Station

10:40

11:40

12:40

13:40

The George Inn

10:42

11:42

12:42

13:42

Bulldog Public House

10:43

11:43

12:43

13:43

Northville Road

10:44

11:44

12:44

13:44

Goloucester Rd Nth, Tesco Garage

10:46

11:46

12:46

13:46

Elm Park

10:47

11:47

12:47

13:47

Filton Roundabout

10:48

11:48

12:48

13:48

Station Road

10:49

11:49

12:49

13:49

Conygre Road

10:50

11:50

12:50

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Conygre Grove

10:51

11:51

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Bude Road

10:52

11:52

12:52

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Filton Ave, Blenheim Road

10:55

11:55

12:55

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555 Bus route

A familiar Filton landmark set to disappear I feel sure there are those who resided at Newleaze House in Filton’s Roycroft Road who will be saddened at its windows and doorways all boarded up. It is due to be demolished soon.

There will be those who reside close by who will be wondering what is going to replace it.

Declared “unfit for purpose” under recent regulations yet it was “home” for many throughout its 46 years’ of existence. It has served the community well.

Many will remember the good times. The delightful “lights” at Christmas and the enjoyable “Christmas Dinners:” the barbecues in the extensive gardens that residents helped to maintain. But the main aspect mostly enjoyed was its togetherness. That mattered most of all.

We had our occasional disputes but they were quickly overcome. The “Elvis Presley” tribute nights. His endearing “Are you lonesome tonight?” gained an immediate response. Even from those with rheumatics. They threw aside their sticks, clambering towards him!

A feature of “Newleaze House” which many will recall was its contributions to “deserving causes.” It was the residents’ consideration for others less fortunate than themselves.

This drew the attention of several celebrities such as TV and Radio presenters who collected sizeable cheques to help those really in need, particularly Children’s Hospice SW which drew their immediate attention.

The essential ingredient for those in the Autumn of their years is “togetherness.” This was drastically disrupted at Newleaze House.

This has been the hardest burden to endure. Much remains to be achieved in this respect.

Whilst several like myself are comfortably located at Bradley Stoke with all modern amenities, the memories of Newleaze House will long remain. Those “Christmas Parties,” the busy “Communal Lounge” and those “Afternoon Teas” provided by the WI will be forever remembered.

Douglas Daniels

September, 2014

filtonvoice

E: richard@filtonvoice.co.uk

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Elm Park, Filton, BS34 7PS Various session times available for: •Meetings •Clubs • Activities

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Enquiries to: standrewsfilton@live.co.uk

Matthew at the helm of South Glos Council Cllr Matthew Riddle is set to be confirmed as the new leader of South Gloucestershire Council.

The appointment will be formally reported to the next meeting of Council on 15 October, following his election as leader of the council’s Conservative group earlier this month. He replaces Cllr John

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Calway who stepped down from both roles last month.

Under council procedure, the leader of the council’s largest single political group is also appointed Leader of Council.

Cllr Riddle said: “I am delight to be elected Leader of the Conservative Group and therefore the Leader of the

Council and look forward to serving the people of South Gloucestershire in this new role.”

The Leader is a key role within the council with responsibility for representing the council on the Local Enterprise Partnership and other national, sub-regional and local forums.

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