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Filtonvoice is distributed each month to all Filton residents. If for some reason you do not get a copy, please get in touch or collect one from Filton Library. Feedback is welcomed, call editor Richard Coulter on 0777 555 0607 or richard@filtonvoice.co.uk.
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HMOs in Filton
New rules could be introduced as HMO numbers in Filton have nearly doubled since 2021
The number of 'large' HMOs (houses in multiple occupancy) in Filton has nearly doubled since 2021, a rise of 86% - new figures show.
A Filtonvoice report in 2021 revealed there were 171 HMOs of five bedrooms or above, a figure which has risen to 316 now. HMOs are typically family homes which have been extended to create up to 11 bedrooms for several people in the one home.
Filton has the largest number of HMOs in South Gloucestershire - 42%, largely due to the proximity to the University of the West of England, SGS College and several large employers. There are 239 HMOs in neighbouring Stoke Gifford, meaning the two areas combined account for 75% of large HMOs in the council area.
An application has been submitted to create a sevenbed HMO at 19 Elm Park
The figures do not account for many more smaller three and four-bedroom HMOs which currently do not need to be registered.
Since the figures were released, in the last month there have been new applications for HMOs for up to eight bedrooms in Braemar Crescent (8), Filton Avenue (6), Filton Avenue (5), Mayville Avenue (7) and Elm Park (7).
Some residents say the rise in numbers of HMOs, some of which have up to 11 bedrooms, has caused issues with parking, rubbish collection and loss of community. There have also been claims that the conversion of small homes into large, extended HMOs means young families are being squeezed out of the housing market as the availability of 'normal' sized homes declines.
Others say HMOs are needed to house students and people who are unable to get on the
housing ladder due to the difficulty of raising a big enough deposit.
Since the report in 2021, South Glos has brought in 'Article 4' rules, meaning large HMOs need planning permission, giving residents the chance to raise concerns.
Article 4 was brought in during 2022 but technicalities caused a delay and it was finally put in place at the end of 2023. However since January 1 this year, the numbers show no signs of slowing down with 56 new licences issued up to April this year.
Now councillors say they are investigating expanding the scope of Article 4 to mean fourbed HMOs would also require
A NEW LOOK FOR YOUR OLD KITCHEN THIS SUMMER
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in Filton
MP: HMOs a symptom of the lack of homes needed
planning permission.
South Gloucestershire Labour councillors say they want to reassure residents in Filton that action is being taken to address concerns around HMOs in the ward.
A spokesperson said: "Residents have raised issues around parking, waste, and the living conditions inside some HMOs.
Cllr Adam Monk and Cllr Alex Doyle, the Labour members for Filton, are spearheading the following actions:
• Reviewing whether it’s possible to lower the occupancy threshold for HMO licensing (in other words, the number of bedrooms allowed before a license is required). If this is possible, it would mean an increase of HMO licenses, which would in turn mean the Article 4 directive – which restricts HMOs – can be applied more effectively.
• Investigating what other HMO licensing conditions are available to South Gloucestershire Council to impose on landlords, to ensure properties are of a high quality and well maintained.
• Conducting walkarounds with
council officers to show areas of fly tipping on private property. Officers are now exploring what enforcement actions are available to tackle the waste.
• Asking the Private Housing Team at the Council to ensure claimed off street parking spaces are available to residents.
• Ensuring the Waste Management Team visits households where residents have raised concerns about waste presentation, so they can provide guidance and education.
• Requesting that the Council’s Scrutiny Commission sets up a Task & Finish Group looking at waste issues within and around rental properties.
The spokesperson added: "Part of the reason why we’re seeing an increase of HMOs is the housing crisis – the lack of affordable homes for local people to rent or buy. The new government are making tackling this a priority and there is currently a national consultation on potential planning reforms.
"South Gloucestershire Council and local councillors are responding to this and – along with our wider contribution - will
GARDENING GET TOGETHERS
include comments around the challenges faced locally around change of use. We encourage residents to participate too."
Cllr Monk said: “The situation with HMOs in Filton continues to be a challenge. I’m proud to live here and this is something I’m committed to tackling, but I need residents to work with me.
“I ask for patience as I work with council officers and other stakeholders to make the situation better. Things will not turn round overnight, but with the right things in place, they will improve.
“One thing I do want to say is that we must not demonise people living in HMOs. Everyone deserves an affordable, safe, good quality place to live. This work is about making Filton an even better place to live, and ensuring that the living standards inside HMOs are what we would all like and expect.”
Recently elected Filton and Bradley Stoke MP Claire Hazelgrove said: “We are facing a housing crisis, with too few homes available for local people to rent or buy –including affordable homes and appropriate student accommodation. As a result,
some local people are being pushed out of the area they love or into renting single bedrooms in shared properties for longer and later in life.
“I know that local residents are - understandably - concerned about a change in community character and strain on public services with HMOs – as am I. They have successfully pushed for new regulations on converting single use houses to HMOs, which have come in this year, and are exploring further options locally. I am supportive of this.
“The increase in HMOs is however a symptom of the lack of homes that local people need, so we need to tackle the housing crisis otherwise this will persist. Our new Labour Government is committed to seeing the 1.5 million more high quality, sustainable and affordable homes we need built nationally, alongside the infrastructure and green spaces that support people and places to thrive. My very first question in Parliament was on this – as getting that balance right is vital as we start to tackle the housing crisis.”
“The situation with HMOs in Filton continues to be a challenge."
- Cllr Adam Monk
Charborough Ward
Indicates number of bedrooms
Work is under way to transform school
Improvement works are now well underway at Filton's secondary school.
The £12 million project of expanding and enhanding the buildings and facilities at Abbeywood Community School started in July.
Over the next 18 months, the project will deliver new classrooms and extend the dance studio and changing rooms.
The work at the school is funded by a combination of the council’s capital funding and Section 106 contributions –money provided by developers of new homes nearby.
Work will take place in phases to minimise disruption to learning for students and teachers.
The first phase includes:
• The installation of temporary classrooms
• Upgrades to the kitchen where school meals are prepared
• Re-modelling existing changing facilities
• An extension to the dance studio
• An extension to the staff car park
The second phase involves the construction of a new tenclassroom block of modern that will be used for a variety of subjects. Work is expected to be complete in early 2026. These new classrooms will
provide additional teaching spaces for the increasing student population.
South Gloucestershire Council Cabinet Member with responsibility for schools, Cllr Ian Boulton, said: “I am delighted that work is underway to make these important improvements to Abbeywood Community School.
“As a council we recognise that the fabric of our schools is vital to allow teachers to teach and for students to learn.
“New, modern classrooms
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will certainly help that, but I am also particularly pleased to see the attention in this project to the creative arts, with the extension of the dance studio.
"This investment, of around £12 million, is one in the longterm future of the school, the staff and the students who will pass through these halls for years to come.”
Dave Baker, Chief Executive Officer of The Olympus Academy Trust, which is responsible for Abbeywood Community School, said: “We are pleased to be working in partnership with South Gloucestershire Council to provide more places at Abbeywood Community School for local residents.
"The additional accommodation is long awaited and much needed.
"It will be transformational once completed.”
A CGI of the side elevation of Abbeywood Community School
Charges after raid at defence firm
Ten people have now been charged with violent offences after a group ram-raided a defence technology firm near Filton.
Police have reported that extensive damage was caused to the Elbit Systems UK building in Bolingbroke Way, and employees were allegedly attacked and assaulted.
A vehicle was "used to smash through the doors of the building" in the early hours of Tuesday, August 6.
More than a dozen people were then alleged to have exited the vehicle and began “attacking the building and causing significant criminal damage”.
Two officers were also reported to have been attacked by a sledgehammer after attending the incident.
The investigation into the attack has been taken over by
the Counter Terrorism Policing South East (CTPSE).
The following individuals have been jointly charged with criminal damage and aggravated burglary:
• Samuel Corner, 22, Devonadditional charges of violent disorder, GBH with intent, and two counts of ABH
• Leona Kamio, 28, Hackney, London - additional charge of violent disorder
• Hannah Davidson, 51, Edinburgh
• Charlotte Head, 28, Caerleon, Newport - additional charge of violent disorder
• Zoe Rogers, 20, Enfieldadditional charge of violent disorder
• Jordan Devlin, 30, Londonadditional charge of violent disorder
It is understood that the Crown Prosecution Service is submitting to the court that these offences have a “terrorist connection”.
The incident is not connected to the recent violent disorder
seen across the UK, police say.
Det Chief Supt Olly Wright, head of Counter Terrorism Policing South East, said: “This is a complex investigation and, while we have now secured charges against a number of people, the investigation very much continues.”
Supt Dan Forster, North East Area Commander for Avon and Somerset Police, said: “At this stage, it appears those involved have travelled into the Avon and Somerset Police area from other parts of the country to commit these serious offences.
“We’re not aware of any wider risk to the local community in South Gloucestershire, or any other part of our force area, but we’d encourage anyone with concerns to speak with a member of their Neighbourhood Policing Team, either through 101 or through our website.”
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Police were called to the scene at Elbit Systems UK on August 6
Abbeywood Community School GCSEs
Class of 2024 successful despite Covid disruption
The class of 2024 at Abbeywood Community School have achieved strong GCSE results, with grades 7-9 across a wide range of subjects, as well as many 5-9 grades in English and Maths.
Nearly 80% of students achieved a grade 4 or above in English, and 67% of students secured a grade 4-9 in both English and Maths, and there was positive progress overall. These results also represent improved attainment from last year.
As spokeswoman said: "Following on from a very successful set of 2024 A Level and vocational results last week (see opposite page), it is great to see another set of strong GCSE results, including some outstanding Engineering results."
Headline figures this year continue an upward trajectory,
and Headteacher Ben Dilley commented: “I am delighted with the performance of our Year 11 students and so proud of their response to the interruptions in learning they have faced because of COVID.
"These excellent results are a reflection of their ability to respond positively to high quality teaching and demonstrate the
Abbeywood values of ambition, confidence and success.
"I am extremely proud of their ambition, hard work and desire to achieve their potential.
"The excellent results are the product of hard work from all our students, staff and parents who have worked together to ensure our young people had the best chance to succeed.
"With the A Level results last week and inviting back this group of talented students to our Post 16, I am excited about what they can achieve over the next two years”
● 60% of students who achieved GCSE English at grade 5 or better ● 55% of students who achieved GCSE Maths at grade 5 or better
● 46% of students who achieved GCSE Maths and English at grade 5 or better ● 67% of students who achieved GCSE Maths and English at grade 4 or better.
● Jordan Mutisya achieved 8 x grade 9, 3 x distinction* and a grade A in Additional Maths Level 3
● James Volkmer achieved 7 x grade 9, 3 x grade 8 and a grade A in Additional Maths Level 3
● Rebecca Fraser achieved 8 x grade 9, 1 x grade 8, and 1 x grade 7.
Abbeywood Community School A-level results
Smiles as students achieve top grades
Abbeywood Community School's post-16 students have been celebrating another year of excellent results and achieving places at top universities and apprenticeships.
At A-level, outcomes have improved again, with over 50% of all grades at A*-B and 85% of grades at A*-C.
As always, there have been some outstanding individual results.
Students have been successful in gaining places at Russell Group universities and degree apprenticeships in local engineering companies such as GKN and Airbus.
Headteacher, Ben Dilley, expressed his pride in the students’ achievements: “We are absolutely delighted with this year’s A-level and vocational results. They are a testament to the incredible hard work of
our students, the unwavering support of their families, and the dedication of our staff.
"We would like to wish everyone receiving their results today every success in whatever they choose to do next.”
Some particularly notable
individual achievements include:
• Madeline Clark who achieved an A*s in Geography, Psychology and Criminology.
• Darcy Purnell, A*s in Mathematics and Further Mathematics, and As in Physics and Chemistry.
• Daniel Fraser attained A* in English Language, As in History and Psychology and an A* in Extended Project, which have earned him a place at Warwick University.
• Grace Hooper is going to Cardiff University after obtaining A* in Sociology A* and As in Biology and English Language
• Freddie Woods, who is off to UWE, achieved a Distinction* in Business a Distinction in Engineering and an A in Design & Technology.
Dave Baker, Olympus Academy Trust CEO, said: "It is easy to forget that this cohort of students had a challenging experience because of the Covid-19 pandemic – this makes their achievements all the more impressive. I would also like to thank and pay tribute to our dedicated staff."
Students from Abbeywood School were thrilled with their results
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Greggs-ellent! Bakery opens drive-thru
Fans of the popular bakery chain, Greggs, can now order and enjoy baked goods from the comfort of their own cars in Filton.
The drive-thru – now open at Abbey Wood Retail Park – has created 18 new jobs for local people, and stocks freshly prepared favourites, such as its famed sausage rolls, steak bakes and vegan alternatives.
Customers can also take advantage of Greggs’ deals throughout the day.
And those looking for a bite to eat in the evening can enjoy hot food such as southern fried chicken coujons, wedges and a variety of pizza slices.
After 4pm, customers can pick up any pizza slice with any drink from just £2.85 instead of the usual £3.50.
Those looking to skip the queues can order through Click +
Collect, via the Greggs App. Shop manager, Rumesh Moss, said: “We can’t wait to welcome both Greggs fans and new customers to our brandnew shop. We’ve got an amazing range of savouries, Fairtrade hot drinks, hot food and healthier choices available for takeaway, sit-in or Click + Collect.”
Gillian Long, Retail Operations Director for Greggs, said: “Our new drive thru in Bristol has brought 18 new jobs to the local area, as well as providing customers with a modern, convenient new place to experience Greggs favourites.”
The Bristol drive-thru opens with a modern new look and comfortable seating.
The opening hours are 6am –7pm daily. Any further jobs will be posted on www.greggsfamily. co.uk.
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FILTON TOWN COUNCIL
W E L C O M E S S T U D E N T S
In September, with UWE and SGS College nearby, Filton welcomes students to our community. We hope your time here is a happy one and here is some ionformation to help you settle in
Find a local GP
https://www.nhs.uk/service-search/find-a-gp/
Find a local dentist
https://www nhs uk/service-search/find-a-dentist
Non-emergency out of hours call 111 Emergency medical Assistance call 999
SANE line mental health helpline (6pm - 11pm): 0300 304 7000
PAPYRUS: 0800 068 41 41
Kooth Student: https://student kooth com/
South Gloucestershire provid of non-recyclable waste
To make sure your recycling a right way
Make sure you:
Check what can and can’t
Check your collection day collection-date
Sort your recycling in the be emptied
Empty and rinse recyclabl food or liquid. Line your food recycling b paper to keep it clean and The black bin lid must be be collected
Order extra recycling con
Extra waste or recycling
Do you have too much waste do with extra waste and recyc
Large household items
The Sort It recycling centres a furniture, fridges as well as ad Find out what you can recycle
You can also arrange for large Information for landlords
If you are a landlord of a stud responsibilities as the owner social behaviour We recomm recycling policies of the local Waste and recycling must be by 7:00am on the scheduled Section 46) Any waste stored Country Planning Act 1990. Se
Filton Town Council
OTHER INFORMATION
Student Advice UWE
To contact The Students' Union Advice Centre please email advice@uwe ac uk
To contact The Students' Union, you can drop in or to book an appointment contact us directly or via The Students' Union campus office
Email: advice@uwe.ac.uk
Phone: 0117 32 82676
de a weekly recycling collection and fortnightly collection and waste is collected, it’s important to put it out in the
be collected for recycling if you live in a house or a flat https://beta southglos gov uk/waste-and-recycling-
containers that we provide. ‘Jumbled’ boxes might not
le food packaging We can’t recycle items that contain
bin with an ordinary plastic bag, compostable bag or d prevent spillages closed for collection Waste left next to the bin will not
LOCAL
tainers free of charge or recycling for your bin or containers? Find out what to cling. https://beta.southglos.gov.uk
are to be used for the disposal of any large items such as dditional waste.
e at your local Sort It recycling centre e household items to be collected from your home
dent property, it is important that you are aware of your of the property to prevent issues with waste or antimend that you make your tenants aware of the waste and area when they move in put out for collection in the containers that we provide collection day (Environmental Protection Act 1990 on the property must be fully contained (Town and ection 215)
Filton Library
Shield Retail Park, Link Rd, Bristol BS34 7BR 01454 868006
Leisure and Social
Active Nation Filton, Elm Park, Filton, Bristol, BS34 7PS 01454 800418 or filtonenquiries@activenation org uk
Air Balloon, 115 Gloucester Rd N, Filton, Bristol BS34 7PY
The Plough Free House, 127 Gloucester Rd N, Filton BS34 7PY
The Bulldog, 528-534 Filton Ave, Bristol BS7 0QF
Retail Parks
Abbey Wood Shopping Park, Filton, Stoke Gifford, Bristol BS34 7JL
Filton Retail Park, Fox Den Rd, Stoke Gifford, Bristol BS34 8SP
Shield Retail Centre, Link Rd, Filton, Bristol BS34 7BR
The Mall, Cribbs Causeway, BS34 5DG
Buses and trains
www southglos gov uk/transport-andstreets/transport/public-communityand-school-transport/ Rail stations at Bristol Parkway and Filton Abbey Wood www gwr com/ travel-information/train-times
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The development of North Filton's new railway station has been hit by fresh delays.
This follows news that a new train station is due to open in Ashley Down next month.
Henbury station has also experienced a set-back.
The delays to North Filton and Henbury are due to changes to the design and concerns about an access ramp.
The North Filton station will serve the new Brabazon Arena and housing estate, and Henbury will be the last stop along the newly reopened line.
But YTL Developments, which is building the arena and housing estate, recently changed their plans for increased capacity and more homes.
This means the plans for North Filton station have needed to be redesigned, although
planning permission has already been granted. It still appears due to open in 2026.
An update on the new train stations was given to the overview and scrutiny committee in July.
Malcolm Parsons,
interim delivery director for transport infrastructure at the West of England Combined Authority, said: “The scope and requirements of Filton have been amended, following the application for densification of the site and the arena, which has
changed the design. We have agreed with the rail industry partners what that revised set of requirements will be.”
But the fresh delays to opening Henbury – which was due to open three years ago –and North Filton have sparked fears they might never get built.
Conservative Councillor Mark Weston said: “I’m slightly concerned this will be forever in the distance, the quest for the holy grail. The holy grail gives immortality, and I might need that to get my station.”
It was hard but I’m so glad we had that conversation.
It was hard but I’m so glad we had that conversation.
Mr Parsons replied: “It will not be forever in the distance. We are absolutely sure we have to have those facilities open, not least of which because the developer at Filton needs it. And we’ve made commitments to the region to deliver it.
Together we planned a proper send off for mum, a whole morning to celebrate her life with the music and poetry she loved. In a peaceful natural setting where our family and friends had plenty of time and space to share stories and memories.
Together we planned a proper send off for mum, a whole morning to celebrate her life with the music and poetry she loved. In a peaceful natural setting where our family and friends had plenty of time and space to share stories and memories.
“We’ll open Ashley Down station this year. And we expect to continue that trend.”
It was hard but I’m so glad we had that conversation.
Together we planned a proper send off for Mum, a whole morning to celebrate her life with the music and poetry she loved. In a peaceful natural setting where our family and friends had plenty of time and space to share stories and
How North Filton train station, next to the new arena, would look. Image: Network Rail/YTL
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Maria, Bristol “ ”
Meeting you in our community
I
HOPE you are enjoying the summer and, like me, many of the brilliant community events put on by great local organisations.
My first month as your new MP has flown by. I’ve been hitting the ground running, both giving us a strong voice in Westminster and getting things set up here too.
It’s not widely known, but when you’re elected you set up a small business from scratch, from creating job adverts to recruit a team, to finding an office – that’s all me –
alongside attending inductions, speaking and voting in parliament, attending events, asking questions of ministers, and working to solve urgent casework for people locally.
I’ve now recruited a great and full team, all starting across the next month, who share my commitment to serving you well. Thank you for your patience while it’s just me.
Despite a challenging financial backdrop, we’ve been making quick progress wherever possible in this first month.
Here’s just some of the change our new government has already brought about:
• Voted to bring our railways into public ownership
• Met NHS leaders to get the 40,000 extra appointments each week and 700,000 urgent dental appointments in place as quickly as possible
• Started hiring 6,500 new teachers
• Lifted the ban on onshore wind
• Scrapped the Rwanda scheme and started setting up a new Border Security Command
• Created a national wealth fund to help grow our economy.
I’ve asked questions for our community in the House of Commons, both on ensuring that we can have improved access to vital infrastructure, including GP
appointments and NHS dentists, as our communities grow, and of the previous government about the £22 billion financial black hole impacting our services.
I’ve also taken part in important briefings, including on special educational needs and disabilities, raising our local challenges with the Education Secretary, and on the recent violent disorder. I’d like to thank Avon and Somerset Police and all involved in protecting our communities and country in the face of this.
As the Prime Minister made clear, those who took part will now face firm justice.
From Frenchay’s Flower Show to Lyde Green’s Summer Sizzler and Patchway’s Throwback Festival, alongside brilliant school fairs, it has been lovely to see and speak with so many of you at community events.
We’ve had some big celebrations too, marking Coniston Community Centre’s 20 years of service and ten years of FACE (Foundation for Active Community Engagement) in Filton. Thank you to everyone involved.
If you have any challenges that you need support with, or any other enquiries, please email claire.hazelgrove.mp@parliament.uk.
Senior - 28 September
Sixth Form - 10 October
Junior - 9 November
Claire Hazelgrove with Patchway mayor Dayley Lawrence and FACE director Debbie Teml at the charity’s 10th birthday celebrations
'Positive' progress on motorway plans
By Alex Seabrook, Local Democracy Reporter
“Good progress” has been made so far on plans for motorway junctions near a massive planned housing development on the former Filton Airfield.
Talks between the developer of the Filton Airfield plan, known as Brabazon, and National Highways are “proceeding positively”.
South Gloucestershire councillors voted to grant planning permission for the Brabazon development this February. The strategic sites delivery committee were asked to approve a six-month delay to the talks on motorway junctions, on Thursday, August 15.
YTL Developments is planning to build 6,500 homes, schools, a research campus, offices, cafes and restaurants.
A new indoor arena is also planned inside the adjacent aeroplane hangars.
Way A Head News
But the huge increase in people in the area means changes are needed to many nearby roads.
A committee report said: “National Highways still maintain their holding objection. They are only likely to remove it once ongoing work regarding the strategic road network junction mitigation schemes — for junction 16 and 17 of the M5 and
Loft Boarding & Insulation
junction one of the M32 — have concluded.
“Good progress has been made to date. Strategic road network mitigation schemes have been designed by the applicant and are currently going through the process of being reviewed and finalised, with regular discussions between National Highways, YTL and South Glos Council taking place.”
Once the works have been agreed, the planning application will then have to be referred to the government for a final approval, due to its sheer size.
"It’s unclear at this stage exactly what they will involve, with experts assessing traffic levels at each of the nearby motorway junctions.
National Highways is responsible for the motorway network, including junctions close to the former airport.
In planning documents, the government-owned company said: “We are concerned with any impacts that this development may have on their safe operation.
“National Highways will only be able to give a positive recommendation once it is satisfied that there is a robust and comprehensive strategy in place to ensure that the development will not have an unacceptable or severe impact.”
Aerial view of the Brabazon development which was approved in February. Image: YTL Developments
What's on in Filton ... email
St Peter’s Church: Services
Sunday 1 September 10am Eucharist
Sunday 8 September 8.30am and 10am Eucharist to celebrate the Accession of King Charles III. 6pm Taizé * in the Lady Chapel
Sunday 15 September 8.30am and 10am Family Eucharist with Harvest Church Parade
Sunday 22 September 8.30am and 10am Eucharist
Sunday 29 September 10am Eucharist and 6pm Evensong with Benediction EucharistMidweek Said Eucharists are on Wednesdays at 7pm and Thursdays at 11am. However, as we are currently in vacancy, midweek services may be cancelled at short notice. Please check our news sheet and Facebook page for up to date information about midweek services.
Taizé service
Based on the calm, contemplative practice of prayer from the Taizé community in France, this is a beautiful, quiet service of reflection on the 2nd Sunday of each month at 6pm. It is a great way to carve out an hour for yourself in the busyness of the week, spending time together in quiet, candlelit prayer.
Social and Church Groups
Our Mothers' Union meets on 2nd Thursday at 2pm in the Coffee Shop. Again, full details on the website.
Brabazon Belles (a social group for women) meet on the first Monday of the month at 7pm in the church hall.
Our Open House group meets every Tuesday in the church hall from 9.3011am for tea, toast, and companionship. Our friendly choir meets for rehearsals every Friday at 7pm in the church. Time to Grieve. Grieving the loss of a loved one? Time to Grieve offers you a
OVER 30s DANCE PARTY at the superb BAWA Club, Filton
on the FIRST Friday of every MONTH (NO dance in August or January)
It’s the ideal night out for the 30-60 age range. Come dance and socialise amongst a friendly, lively crowd. Dancing Thru’ the Decades includes Motown, Soul, Club Classics… Music you can relate to. Club times are 9 ‘til 1. Last entry 11pm – very smart casual. No t-shirts or trainers and gents required to wear collared shirts. Entry: £8. www.mingles.co.uk. Facebook: @Luv2mingle
space to talk about your loved one with a trained bereavement counsellor and to meet others in a similar situation.
10.30 - 11am on the first Wednesday of every month in the Coffee Shop. Next sessions are on 4 September, 2 October, 6 November and 4 December.
Community Coffee Shop
Our friendly, welcoming coffee shop is open from Monday to Thursday, 10am1pm for hot and cold drinks, homemade cake and hot snacks and soup. Suggested donation £1.50 per item.
We have a wonderful hairdresser in the coffee shop who is happy to cut people's hair in return for a donation to the church. She is usually in the coffee shop on Wednesday mornings if you would like a quick trim but do pop in to confirm her availability.
We also offer free soup and a roll to anyone in need of a hot meal on Thursdays from 10am.
Why not join us on Toasty Tuesdays from 10am for a hot drink and some toast. We usually have donations of bakery items to give to those in need on Mondays from 10am. All for a small donation.
You can find more information about all of this, and read our weekly news sheet, by going to www.stpeterschurchfilton. com and if you have any queries, please contact the Church Wardens or the administrator, who will be only too happy to help wardens. stpeterschurchfilton@gmail.com and faith.stpeterschurchfilton@gmail.com
St Andrew's Methodist Church
Regular Services
Sundays
Morning Service 10.30 am. Little Lights (for children whose parents are attending worship). Please join us and you will receive a warm welcome.
Tuesdays
Wesley Guild, alternate Tuesdays. Restarts September 3rd.
Thursdays
Rainbows (Term-time) 5.00pm
Fridays (Term-time) St Andrew's Baby and Toddler Group, 10.00 am – 11.45 am, £2 per family, includes refreshments. Play, crafts, chat and singing time. Restarts 6 September.
Messy Church: Meets the 2nd Saturday of the month, 3.30 pm - 5.15pm. Next meeting is 14th September. Crafts, fun and food for all the family. Children must be accompanied by a responsible adult at all times. This event is free.
Sip 'n' Chat Coffee morning: Thursday, 12 September, 10.00 am - 12.00 noon. Enjoy a cuppa, a cake and a chat - all welcome.
Hire of Church: Outside groups also regularly hire our newly refurbished
Tom’s Slimming World group will be held at Greenway Centre, Southmead, BS10 5PY every Tuesday at 5:30pm & 7:00pm from Tuesday 11th June 2024. For more information or to join Tom’s group call him on 07920779270.
multi-use church.
For bookings email: standrewsfilton@ gmail.com
For all other enquiries, please visit our website, standrewsfilton.org.uk
FACE
Mondays:
12.30-1.30pm Tai Chi, £3 entry
7-9pm The Hangout youth club for young people aged 13-25, with social or learning disabilities, £2 entry
Tuesdays:
10am-12pm Coffee Club (tea & coffee morning for older folk), donations welcomed
5.30-6.30pm Rise youth club for School Years 3 & 4, £2 entry
7-8.30pm Shine youth club for School Years 5 & 6, £2 entry
Wednesdays:
7-9pm Outbreak youth club for School Years 7-13, £2 entry Thursdays:
No Silver Surfers during August. Will return September 5th
1.30-2.30pm Low Impact Fitness session, £3 entry
7-9pm Illuminators social club for adults aged 20+ with social or learning disabilities, £2 entry Fridays:
10am-12pm “Coffee & Chat” coffee morning for anyone who would like to come for refreshments, conversations and join in crafts and games together. Donations welcomed.
1–3pm Creative Writing, Donations welcomed.
6-8pm, monthly Social Club for 8-13s with social or learning disabilities, 3rd Friday of each month
Contact: FACE, Youth Centre, Elm Park, Filton, BS34 7PS. 0117 9691938 / info@facecharity.org.uk
Girl Guiding
Rainbows – age 4 - 7 years - Tuesday 16:45-17:45 & Thursday 17:15 – 18:15 Brownies - age 7 - 10 years - Tuesday 17:45-19:15
Guides - age 10 - 14 years - Tuesday 19:30 – 21:00
Rangers - age 14 - 18 years - Tuesday 19:30 – 21:00
To register your daughter, go to Girlguiding UK website and follow the link 'Register my daughter'
The DIY group, which aims to tackle loneliness and isolation among men aged over 50, operates from the Scout hut in Nutfield Grove, providing a space to socialise, build, share skills and drink tea.
Men in Sheds Filton is part of a national movement, initiated by Age Concern Cheshire in 2009 and sustained by the UK Men’s Sheds Association.
The group runs every Wednesday, from 9.30am-12.30pm. Call John Cahill 07986053005
SHE7
Tuesday: Bingo 7.30pm - 9.00pm
Wednesday: Over 50s lunch, Cooked lunch, pudding and tea/coffee for just £3.50. Please ring 0117 969 5130 to book and arrive by 12.15pm.
Wednesday: Bristol Taiko - Japanese Drumming 7.00pm - 8:30pm, £5 per session
International Plastic Modellers Society Avon
Meetings are held on the 3rd Wednesday in the month from 7:30pm for 8.00pm at: BAWA Healthcare & Leisure, 589 Southmead Rd, Filton, Bristol BS34 7RG. Contact the club at: ipmsavon@gmail.com
Ukulele Filton
We are an enthusiastic group of ukulele players, who meet to strum along and sing on Monday evenings, at 7.30 pm. We will be at St Andrew’s Methodist Church, Elm Park.
New members are very welcome to join us there. No previous experience needed. We have spare ukes for you to try, and plenty of help in getting you
What's on in Filton ... email shane@filtonvoice.co.uk
started. For further details, phone Sue on: 07504561 831
Bristol Scrabble Club
Bristol Scrabble Club meets every Wednesday evening from 7pm until 10pm at the Filton Community Centre. Elm Park Filton BS347PS. New members are welcome and first visit is free so come along and give us a try. For more information ring Sheila Hinett 01179570792 or 07435316458. Alternatively email shinett@blueyonder. co.uk.
Bristol Sugarcraft Guild
We are a small friendly group who meet every third Saturday of the month 2pm to 4pm at St Andrews Church, Elm Park, Filton.
If you would like to learn to make sugar flowers and models we hold demonstrations and also workshops with instruction.
Beginners are very welcome.
Please call Jean Kington on 01454 314178 or Carole Hyams on 0117 956 8037 for more information.
Horfield Townswomen’s Guild
We will be meeting at St Andrew's Church Hall on the 2nd Wednesday afternoon of each month (except August) at 2pm to 4pm. We welcome new members. For more information, please contact Edna on 9495413.
Community Garden
Gardening Get-togethers continue on alternate Saturdays 11am to 1pm Join the friendly volunteers and help keep the garden looking great for all to enjoy. All abilities welcome, just turn up on the day wearing suitable clothing and bring your own gloves. Tools and guidance provided.
August
Saturday 31 August
September
Saturday 14 September
Saturday 28 September
October
Saturday 12 October
Saturday 26 October
For updates and more info visit facebook.com/filtoncommunitygarden or email communitygarden@ filtontowncouncil.gov.uk
Filtones Afternoon Choir
Our long-established mixed voice choir is looking to recruit new members in 2024.
Adults of all ages, and all voice ranges
are welcome from soprano to bass.
We meet every Wednesday afternoon from 1.45-3.45 p.m. at the St Teresa’s Community Rooms, (behind the church) at 71 Gloucester Rd North BS34 7PL Come along and try us out for four weeks free, with no audition and no commitment.
We hope you may then like us enough to want to stay and join our happy band of singers. We sing an eclectic mix of songs from musicals to spirituals and pop, so there is something to please everyone.
We are a very friendly bunch so please give us a try – what’s there to lose? You might find yourself with an absorbing new hobby and lots of new friends in the process. For further info. contact 07870 984760 or visit www.thefiltones. co.uk
Ebenezer Church
Sundays
Sunday Service 10.30AM – 12PM
Thursdays
Foodbank Outlet 1PM – 3PM If you are at crisis point and struggling with food, then please contact the foodbank about getting support. Call 0117 472 5172
After School Hangout 3.30PM – 5PM (Every two weeks during term time) Different zones with crafts, games books, homework space and a free meal.) For families with primary school aged children.
For more information about Ebenezer Church visit www.ebe.or.uk or call the church office on 0117 9791399
Concord Wind Band
We are a friendly, mixed ability band, playing music for fun. We rehearse at the Beechwood Club, Beechwood Rd, Fishponds, Bristol. BS16 3T every Friday 7.30pm to 9.30pm, with a tea break. We welcome new members. Contact Jayne on 07880724948
Filton Bookworms
Are you interested in joining a reading group? Come along to the Bookworms monthly reading group at Filton Library! 1st Friday of each month at 2:00pm If you are interested in Joining, please as inside the library.
If you are interested in Joining, please as inside the library. Phone: 01454 868006 or Email: Filton.library@southglos.gov.uk
North Avon
Speakers Club
We are a public speaking group associated with Toastmasters International. We usually meet every first and third Thursday of the month at BAWA Filton, 7:15pm to 9:30pm.
We have prepared speeches, but also Table Topics, which are a fun way to help members and guests practice impromptu speaking.
Our speeches and table topics, usually get evaluated afterwards by members of the club, in the meeting itself, so that we can all improve at our public speaking skills!
After our meetings some members and guests usually also go to the nearby lounge/bar at BAWA. Please email northavontm@gmail.com for more information.
Filton Garden Club
We meet at 7.30pm on the first Wednesday of every month, (except January). We are a very friendly club & welcome new members. If you enjoy interesting talks and slideshows on various aspects of gardens, plants etc., and day trips to gardens of interest, please come along & join us. We meet at St. Andrew's Church, BS34 7PS
Dance Moves Keep Fit
Tuesday, 2-3pm at St Peter's Church Filton. Have fun whilst improving your general wellbeing. Suitable for all ages. For further information, contact Eileen Scott, Tel. 07969929733/ email scottyartois@hotmail.com
Short Mat Bowls
We are a friendly group that meets Thursdays 1:45pm to 4pm at the Filton Community centre, Elm Park Filton, BS34 7PS. New members are welcome, and the first visit is free, then each session £3. Contact Alan Riley on 07957295287 or email alanriley73@gmail.com
Keep Fit Class @ St Teresa’s Social Centre
Want to stay active and improve your well-being? Why not try your local exercise class at St Teresa's Social Centre in Filton on Mondays 7.15pm to 8.15pm. Work at your own level. All abilities welcome.
Royal Air Forces Association – Bristol Branch
Every 2nd Wednesday of the month we run Veterans lunch at our club, The lunch is for veterans of all services and widows of Service men. Come and meet like-minded others for companionship and make new friends. If help is needed we can point you in the right direction.
Open from 12pm, lunch is at 1pm until 3pm. The price is £7 for two courses.
Address 38 Eastfield, Westbury On Trym, BS9 4BE. Please ring 0117 0470775 to book.
Filton Pétanque Club
Come and try a game of Pétanque - the French game of boules. No equipment needed initially, just wear flat, trainertype shoes, and dress for the weather.
Wednesday evenings at 7.00pm. Sunday mornings at 10.30am.
Venue: the boule piste, Elm Park, next to the community garden. https://filtonpetanqueclub.my-free. website
Filton Historical Club
These talks will be held in St. Andrews Church, Elm Park, Filton. All talks will start at 7.30 pm. There is plenty of free parking available in the adjacent Church car park. Those who wish only to come to selected talks will be asked to pay £5 per session.
Please pass the information on these talks to anyone you feel might be interested. We welcome all comers, especially new members. Tel: 0117-9424378. E-mail: alansnook@ blueyonder.co.uk
Wednesday 25 September 2024 - 7.00 pm. Starting at 7pm to allow collection of yearly subscriptions. 'From Gutenberg to Gates – the story of printing and more' with Roy Ackrill
Wednesday 30 October 2024 - 7.30pm 'Piracy and War in the Bristol Channel 1450-1800' with Philip Ashford
Wednesday 27 November 20247.30pm. 'The Women who Built Bristol' with Jane Duffus
Northavon Singers
Northavon Singers would like to welcome more singers to their four-part all-age (18+) choir.
Rehearsals are weekly at St Peter’s Church Hall, Filton, every Wednesday at 7.30 pm –9.30 pm
We sing concerts in local churches and visit South Gloucestershire care homes during the year with all sorts of music from swing to classical.
We would love to see Bassists and / or Tenors (willing to have a rehearsal) come along and see if they like us!
Come and join us! northavon.singers@ outlook.com or phone 0117 9699206
Functional Skills Maths Course
Free maths course for over 19’s who do not hold a level 2 maths qualification. Mondays 9:30am to 11:30am at FACE Please contact Louise Gillett on 07720 143 891 or email: louise.gillett@ southglos.gov.uk
With NHS dentists hard to find, local people are rightly concerned about their mouth health. But there might be an alternative. In her regular series of columns, Sarah-Joy Lendon, the Filton-based 'Virtual Hygienist', offers tips on how you can take steps yourself to reduce your need to visit the dentist
A simple guide to gum disease
What is gum disease?
Sometimes the jargon around gum disease can be a bit confusing so here is a quick and simple guide.
Gum disease – a layman’s term encompassing all forms of gum inflammation caused by a build-up of plaque.
Periodontal disease – the professional terminology for gum disease.
Gingivitis – inflammation of the gums that has caused no permanent damage – all gum disease starts here and at this stage is reversible.
Periodontitis – inflammation of the gums that has caused some bone loss – at this stage the damage is irreversible as we can not regrow the bone or gum that is lost, however, we can work to heal the gum inflammation to prevent further damage to the tissues surrounding the tooth.
Periodontist – a dentist who has done additional training in order to specialise in the diagnosis and treatment of periodontal diseases
Hygienist – a dental care professional who is trained in the prevention, diagnosis, treatment and maintenance of gum disease and health.
For more advice on maintaining a healthy mouth for you and your family you can join the free Facebook group - The Virtual Hygienist. Or book a virtual appointment at www. thevirtualhygienist.co.uk/home
