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filtonvoice August 2012 Issue 11
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Filton’s Unsung Heroes P11-13
BUSINESS DIRECTORY P2 | LETTERS P14-15 | FASHION P36 | WHAT’S ON P44-45
WINTER SALE PLUS,
At last! Controversial bus shelter arrives after 30-month wait - P7
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l Torchbearer to return after crowd surge problem P3 l Council ‘didn’t have bottle’ over house P4-5 l Labour ‘should be barred’ after row P22 l Model plane 50% off rrp nevada oak bedroom ‘dangers’ at field P26 oak bedside oak wardrobes Picture: Rikki Teml from
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l New team at landmark pub P34 l Radio Bristol pays a visit to Filton P38
Twinning partners arrive for week of activities - Page 16
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T: 0777 555 0607 2 filtonvoice All you need ... in one mag
Directory of advertisers Accountant Aerials Blinds Beauty Butcher
Martin Green, Page 33 TJS Business, Page 16 Andrew Murley, Page 41 Bristol Blinds, Page 33 Sarah’s Sanctuary, Page 26
Gales Farm Meats, Page 20 Car parts/auto Motaman, Page 45 Carpentry JPC, Page 47 Carpets Quality Carpets, Page 16 Chauffeur White Diamond, Page 43 Children’s activities Gymtastic, Page 47 Mayhem, Page 16 Children’s entertainment Chrisptee, Page 47 Computer repairs PC Pal, Page 32 goto iT, Page 5 Days Out Old Down Park, Page 15 Doors Door Express, Page 31 Door repair DGR, Page 43 Education/tuition Explore Learning, Page 18 EF Language Centres, Page 46 Electrician ES Till, Page 9 Farmer’s market/nursery Westerleigh Park Nursery, Page 20 Florists Flowers in Bloom, Page 29 Foster care TACT, Page 28 Furniture Branches, Page 1&3 Garages Filton Central Garage, Page 7 Westlec, Page 21 Brookfield, Page 29 Garden Centre Almondsbury Garden Centre, Page 48
Gardening Gas services
Local information
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 www.avonandsomersetpolice.uk General enquiries: 101 Emergency: 999 Fire 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
Chris & Elizabeth Clarke Dip HSM. MNCH (Acc) CNHC Registered
Hypnotherapy, NLP, EFT, Coaching & Stress Management Anxiety, Phobias, Confidence, Panic Attacks, IBS, Habits, Smoking, Personal/Career & Sports Development
0117 969 2281 www.candeclarke.co.uk
Richard Coulter Editor and publisher Emma Cooper Advertising sales
0771 577 0448 | emma@filtonvoice.co.uk
Bristol Gas, Page 29
Headlines, Page 47 Hairdressers/barbers Filton Barber, Page 9 Way-A-Head, Page 32 Chopps, Page 18 Kitchens Dream Doors, Page 37 Local authority Filton Town Council, Pages 24/25 Locksmith Williams, Page 47 Mobility Care Plus Mobility, Page 26 Oven cleaning Ovenclean, Page 29 Pest control Falcon, Page 47 Plumber Bristol Gas, Page 29 Plumber services, Page 47 Public relations Amageo Media, Page 47 Record collections Jamie, Page 47 Restaurant McDonald’s, Page 35 Retirement living Churchill, Page 6 Rubbish removal Mark, Page 47 School Abbeywood School, Pages 19 Slimming Slimming World, Page 21 Sports/conference facilities Abbeywood School, Pages 423 Therapy/hypnotherapy Chris & Elizabeth Clarke, Page 2 Towbars LNB, page 27 Vets Vets4Pets, Page 17 Wills Allguard Page 38 Window Cleaning EC Clean, Page 39 Windows and doors DGR, Page 43
Contacts
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Graham Cook, Page 4
Gifts
August, 2012
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Local advertising in filtonvoice works Many thanks to everyone who has offered such positive feedback about your monthly magazine. And it is YOUR magazine ... a place to find out things about our community and have your say. For businesses, it’s a great - and affordable - chance to get your message out to 12,000+ people locally.
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I have used FiltonVoice from the very first issue to advertise our FACS (Friends of Abbeywood Community School) events. At our car boot sale on 19th May we asked people coming through the door how they had heard of the event and the vast majority said it was because they’d seen it in FiltonVoice. They also commented on what a great magazine it is. I shall continue using the magazine to advertise our fundraising events. Many thanks. Jeanne Clements (FACS)
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Recently I had a problem with my double glazed front door. The lock had jammed, and I was unable to open it. I contacted a local locksmith and was told that it would be impossible to repair the lock, and the only solution would be a new door, costing in the region of £600 – 700, and would take at least a week as the door would have to be made. Not convinced that this was the only solution, I contacted DGR Windows, as advertised in your magazine. The gentleman visited the same day and was sure the problem could be fixed. He returned the following day with the necessary parts, and the problem was solved at a cost of £250. The work was carried out in a friendly and professional manner, and I cannot praise
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.
this company highly enough.” Name and address supplied
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We decided to advertise with Filtonvoice as we felt it was the most professional looking local magazine. I feel we have proved to be right and the costs have been well worth it, we now have bookings months in advance. Ashley & Sarah Porter Porters catering
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I decided to put an ad in filtonvoice and I was delighted to pick up work well into next year, and not just a one-off job but a number of jobs. Gardener Graham Cook
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At Dream Doors we have been so impressed with filtonvoice. We have had several enquiries in the short period we have been advertising. But in addition, we are happy and proud to be associated with such a high quality publication – it is well written, well designed and it is probably the best local magazine we have seen. The monthly distribution through letterboxes means that the customers we are trying to reach will read our message and the fact that the magazine is so good means we know people will not throw it away. Keep up the good work! Loretta, Dream Doors
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Just received the copy of Filton Voice. It looks very good. A good mixture of local news, advertising and top class promotions! Phil Merry, Focus Media Please support local firms who advertise and when you do, please mention filtonvoice 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.
To advertise, contact Richard on 0777 555 0607, Emma on 0771 577 0448 or Wendy on 0771 577 0242. Email: adverts@filtonvoice.co.uk
August, 2012
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News Torchbearer to return to Filton after crowd surge distress The Olympic torchbearer who carried the flame through Filton wants to return to the area after hearing that some children had been pushed out of the way by crowds trying to get close to the event. Corinne Day carried the torch along Southmead Road on May 23 on its way around the country and ultimately to the Olympic Stadium. But some Filtonvoice readers reported that the big crowds surged forward as she ran through, meaning children who had waited patiently were unable to see. Now Corinne wants to return to Filton to show the torch and talk about her Olympic experience to schoolchildren, with Charborough Road and St Teresa’s both keen to host her. She said: “I was honoured
to be your Torchbearer on Southmead Road on 23rd May. “My experience that day was absolutely wonderful and it has therefore saddened me today to read in Filtonvoice the letters of disappointment from people
whose view (and especially that of their children) was spoiled by crowds pushing forward as I carried the torch down the road. “I hope I can reduce the disappointment by bringing the torch back to Filton.”
3
l Meanwhile, torchbearer Mark Wilkinson, from Monmouth, visited Sainsbury’s in Filton to continue his fundraising efforts for the MacMillan cancer charity. Mark has raised nearly £1 million since 2000.
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News
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Council ‘didn’t have bottle’
Graham Cook Gardener and handyman
Grass cutting, hedge and shrub trimming, weeding, planting, felling small trees, clearing, small painting jobs including garden fences and other maintenance work. Please call for a no-obligation chat Call 0117 377 0644 or 07415 658 205
Filton Town Council “didn’t have the bottle” to help the Friends of Conygre House save the building, the group’s chairman told a meeting. Keith Briffett said that despite £1,500 given by the council for a feasibility study into possible future uses for the historic house, owners South Glos Council decided it would have to be sold. Mr Briffett said South Glos “offered to sell to us for £1” but insisted there were conditions attached which meant it was not a genuine offer. At a meeting of the town council, Mr Briffett said “anyone could have contacted him” to look at the feasibility study after claims that it had not been produced for public inspection. He also handed over invoices for the feasibility study and said that annual accounts would be published. The Friends of Conygre House have said that the economic climate, lack of grant funding sources and the squeeze on local authorities resulted in the project to buy and refurbish the site being shelved. It is thought that it would take around £400,000 to refurbish the building, which was previously used as council offices and by Merlin Housing Assciation until it closed down three years ago. In a statement, Mr Briffett said: ““When the Friends banded together and embarked on the “save Conygre House” project, we expected that capital grant funding would not be too difficult to find for purchase of the site and refurbishment of such a worthwhile project. However, an in-depth feasibility study highlighted that grant funding for capital projects had got too hard. Funding sources we assumed would support the Conygre House project had tightened up their funding criteria to the point that we no longer qualify. “The feasibility study commissioned by the Friends of Conygre House concluded that our aspiration to purchase, refurbish and manage Conygre House for community use is not a viable proposition. “The very detailed study, carried out by Elaine Flint
of Social Enterprise Works, used much of the information and research carried out by the Friends, UWE and local architects. It explored a number of options but unfortunately none, once investigated thoroughly, would deliver a long term, financially sustainable project, even if the property had been leased at a peppercorn rent. “The reasons why we could not we could not proceed are:“Firstly: the study identified that in the current economic climate, our business model of selling office space and desk hire cannot guarantee sufficient income to underpin the running costs in the immediate and long term. Also all alternatives explored were not sustainable. “Secondly: capital grant funding sources have either withdrawn from the market place or have changed their criteria. So funds needed to cover the cost of purchase and refurbishment has become harder to locate and due to our geographical location nigh impossible for our project. Because of the location we do not meet the criteria required for sources such as Landfill, or the Lottery Reaching Communities Fund for example. “Thirdly: in these times of government austerity this had to be a community based project as neither South Gloucestershire Council nor Filton Town Council has the funds to build a community centre that could not provide a means of sustaining its costs independently from support from the rates. “As a Community Association our wider mission is to improve the quality of life for the people of Conygre and Filton area. As part of the group’s activities to date we have developed a vibrant, proactive nucleus of people that spend much of their time developing community events and activities. “Around 500 people have now signed our petition to get a bus service through Conygre and we shall press the council and the service providers to get some public transport through the area.” In July’s Filtonvoice, Merlin Housing Association stated it had no plans to buy the house,
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News
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to help save historic house
The second Friends of Conygre House Fun Day was enjoyed by good crowds - and it didn’t rain! A vintage bus ran services from Church View shops, Wades Rd, Hunters Way, Homdale Ave, Conygre Grove, Conygre Rd, Conygre House and back to Church View. Sppokesman Tony Blake said: “Lots of people took the bus to get to the Fun Day and back home again as well as taking trips for fun around the route. “A lot of people have not seen a bus down here for months and this was also part of the Friends campaign to get a bus service in Conygre again, with a lot of despite rumours locally that this was a possibility. South Gloucestershire Council Director of Corporate Resources Dave Perry said: “The Friends of Conygre House have worked tirelessly to identify options to retain the house for the local community and the council has been very supportive of this work. “We are all disappointed that it was not possible to identify a financially sustainable approach to retaining the house but having exhausted all options we must now move forward with its sale.” Vice Chair of the Friends
people signing the petition as well. Thanks to Kelvin Amos for bringing his bus. “Highlights of the show were the band, Filton Brass on holiday with many of their full time and veteran players. “There was a fine supply of tea, cakes and the wonderful burgers and hot dogs, while the stalls for books & plants and more and more did a thriving trade. “Stan & Jackie Sims and Jane Tozer had a highly informative History of Conygre House and Filton. “We raised another £200 for the funds and the bus petition is now up to 500 signatures.”
of Conygre House Tony Blake said: “The Friends of Conygre House appreciate the work and commitment that South Gloucestershire Council have put into the Conygre House project.” Mr Briffett and Mr Blake said that as part of their future plans, they had organised a petition calling for bus services to return to the Conygre ward. Mr Briffett said: “Conygre and Filton are good enjoyable places to live. Now that acquiring Conygre House is no longer our main priority the good works that we have been doing in the community will continue.”
To advertise, contact Richard on 0777 555 0607, Emma on 0771 577 0448 or Wendy on 0771 577 0242. Email: adverts@filtonvoice.co.uk
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News After months of waiting, bus shelter for elderly finally built The controversial bus shelter on the A38 opposite the Springfield elderly people’s home has been finally installed - after two and a half years of delays, along with accusations and counteraccusations over who was to blame for the hold-up. The issue led to a series of acrimonious clashes between a district councillor and a community campaigner. Resident and campaigner Brian Smith has repeatedly said at public forums that it was a disgrace that it took so long for the shelter to be installed. He said the shelter was first proposed in April 2010 and a year later, Transportation Services at South Glos Council agreed to the scheme if Filton Town Council matched their £2,500. District councillor Roger Hutchinson has insisted that he had managed to save Filton Town Council money by pushing the entire cost to South Glos - and that the delays were down to problems with the manufacturers. Mr Smith said: “It is my belief that if the town council and South Glos had shared the cost, as was proposed, the consultation would have happened quicker and we would have had the shelter a long time ago. “As it was, it took a further one and a half years. “I don’t understand why nothing happened in the initial 12 months.”
Springfield residents with Brian Smith at the new bus shelter. Right, Cllr Roger Hutchinson The two men clashed at the July full town council meeting over the shelter. Mr Hutchinson, responding to Mr Smith’s question over when the shelter would be installed, told the town council he didn’t enjoy “being bombarded by Mr Smith at meeting after meeting” and said his (Mr Smith’s) actions were “as arrogant and bullying to me as he alleges are done to him”. He also said that it was lies that he had sworn at Mr Smith at a previous public meeting, and that he had only apologised for what Mr Smith thought he had heard, not what he actually heard. Mr Smith, who says local people have been waiting for more than two years for the shelter, said it was a “disgrace” that it had not yet been installed and suggested Councillor Kieran
Hyde should take up the issue. He said: “It’s a disgrace that the elderly people have been left soaking wet – let’s have some action.” Mr Hutchinson said that Mr Smith “did not want to hear the answers” to his questions. He said: “It is not my fault that we are having difficulty with the manufacturers.” Later in the meeting, Cllr Bill Moore said: “Yet again we have Cllr Hutchinson saying ‘you’re lying’ to a resident which is unbecoming for any councillor. Where clear disrespect is shown, a line in the sand has to be drawn.” He said that anyone acting in an abusive manner should be asked to leave the meeting. Later, Cllr Moore, who recently resigned from the local Labour group citing his own concerns over bullying, called
for more courtesy at public meetings. He said: “I feel that if anyone is abusive, they should be asked to leave.”
Viewpoints Sincere thanks must go to Mr Brian Smith over his tireless efforts to achieve another success for the people of Filton. Filtonresident We’ve been waiting a long time - since 2010 - and it was only Brian’s persistence which meant we got it. Jean Britton This will make a lot of difference and I will use it every day Margaret Dearing
www.filton-central.co.uk
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News Filton market was ‘hub for counterfeit clothing’ Filton market was described as a ‘hub’ for counterfeit clothing after a Downend man was ordered to pay back £11,000 under a confiscation order. In February 2012, Balvinder Singh of Westbourne Road pleaded guilty to two charges relating to the sale of counterfeit clothing under the Trade Marks Act 1994 when he appeared before Northavon Magistrates’ Court. The case was then passed to Bristol Crown Court for sentencing in March when Singh was ordered to complete 150 hours of unpaid work. Proceedings were also instigated under the Proceeds of Crime Act 2002 and when Singh again appeared at Bristol Crown Court in early July it was disclosed that he had made a benefit of £11,000 from selling counterfeit clothing.
He was ordered to repay this figure within six months and told that if he failed to do so he would serve seven months in prison and still have to pay the stated amount. In addition Singh was also order to pay £7,000 towards prosecution costs within 12 months. The case was taken by South Gloucestershire Council’s Trading Standards service after it received intelligence that Filton market was a hub for counterfeit trading. An officer attended and
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purchased a pair of Evisu jeans and a Lyle and Scott pullover from market stalls operated by Balvinder Singh. Both items were subsequently confirmed to be counterfeit by the brand holders concerned. Singh, who has previous convictions relating to possession of counterfeit goods dating back to 2007 and 2009, has been warned to change his behaviour. Chair of the council’s Communities Committee, Claire Young said: “Investigations like
August, 2012
this protect consumers as well as protecting legitimate businesses. “The scale of the financial penalty demonstrates that the courts take a dim view of this activity.” Neil Derrick, Senior Enforcement Officer with South Gloucestershire Trading Standards, said: “This case has been effective in removing the financial benefit Mr Singh derived from his criminal actions and, including costs, his financial burden stands at £18,000. “I hope this acts as a deterrent to all those considering, or engaging in criminal activity as their income source.” Anyone wishing to report counterfeit sales activities in the strictest confidence can do so by contacting Citizens Advice Consumer Helpline on 08454 04 05 06.
New scheme to help elderly and disabled in Filton remain in their own homes for longer A new scheme has been set up to help elderly and disabled people in Filton live in their own home for as long as possible. South Gloucestershire Council has agreed a new contract with West of England Care & Repair which will provide information and advice on housing related issues, ensure that homes are suitable for people leaving hospital and support those requiring major adaptations to their homes. A new centre has also been opened in Waterloo Street, Bristol, where people can test out equipment to aid their mobility such as level access showers, kitchen equipment and seat raisers. A ‘smart house’ in Yate, offering similar facilities, will be provided later in the year in conjunction with Merlin Housing Society. The contract was developed following a huge response to a consultation. More than 3,000 survey
responses from older people, those with disabilities and carers said it was important to have reliable, sympathetic and trustworthy staff to deal with; that services need to be of a high standard; and that any charges should be reasonable. The council will deliver this service in partnership with neighbouring local authorities - Bristol City Council, Bath & North East Somerset Council and North Somerset Council - and with additional funding from NHS South Gloucestershire. Call 0117 954 2222 for more.
ON THE WEB
www.bristolcareandrepair.org.uk/gloucester/index.html
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News
Air Ambulance in £250k appeal The Filton-based Great Western Air Ambulance Charity (GWAAC) has officially launched their campaign to raise £250,000 for a new air ambulance – Movin’ on Up. Their current aircraft, a Bölkow 105, was introduced in 1970 and was not designed as an air ambulance. The charity is now the only 999 response air ambulance charity in the UK to rely solely on a Bölkow. All other charities have migrated to modern aircraft. A Eurocopter EC 135 GWAAC’s target aircraft - would cut about four minutes from every call out. GWAAC chief executive John Christensen said: “Imagine running a normal ground ambulance service with vehicles dating back to 1970. It would be
unthinkable. Luckily, helicopters are maintained to much higher standards. But even then there are limits. We do not want to be in a position where the Civil Aviation Authority – the UK’s airspace watchdog – say we can’t use our aircraft any more.” Movin’ on Up is a year-long campaign which will be seen across the region in roadshows, publicity and events. The £250,000 will allow GWAAC to lease a purposedesigned Eurocopter EC 135. Further benefits over the existing helicopter include: • A mother-and-child could fly to hospital together • Ability to land on new hospital raised helipads • More space for mid-air treatment. To get involved, see details on poster, left.
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Filton Unsung Heroes
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Hail the heroes
All the nominees gather after the ceremony
Heroes from the Filton community were rewarded at a special ceremony held at Abbeywood Community School last month. The event was the first Unsung Heroes Awards, organised by Filton Working Together, the priority neighbourhood programme for Filton backed by Southern Brooks Community Partnership. Nominees in four categories were given certificates with trophies for the overall winners. The event was hosted by Abbeywood Community School, with students providing entertainment. Before the ceremony, the school held a showcase of the different departments, including art and gymnastics. The organisers said the event would not have happened without the support of their business and community partners, who are listed on Pages 12 and 13. Project nominees:
Concorde Partnership Development Work - Mollie Finn and Ellie Usher (both in Year 9 at Abbeywood Community School) Mollie and Ellie gave up their Bank Holiday weekend for the Diamond Jubilee in order to raise funds for Cancer Research. Anti Trafficking Campaign – Tamara Choi, Frankie Long, Hannah Bartlett, Maria Patsia, Marta Benedek, Nokuthaba Moyo, Hayley Cooper, Grace O’Reilly. This group of year 12 girls here at Abbeywood Community School raised £375 for a Human Trafficking charity called ‘Unchosen’. Viewpoint Action Group -
Donna Burgess, Maggie Harris, Sally Kneebone and Michelle Glover For working together to make life at Church View flats a more enjoyable place for the children living in the four blocks.
Acknowledgment: Anti Trafficking Campaign Winner: Viewpoint Action Group Group nominees :
Youth Centre property volunteers: Brian Robbins, Frank Thompson, and John Watt This group of ‘senior’ gentlemen from St Andrew’s Methodist Church are vital in keeping the youth centre building standing!
Filton & District Community Action Group: Pete Edwards, Les Gazeley, John Moloney, Jean Best, Brian Williams, Doug Daniels. For working together to represent Merlin residents across Filton and funding up to £10,000 a year in good causes and projects across Filton for the community. Viewpoint Action Group: Donna Burgess, Maggie Harris, Sally Kneebone and Michelle Glover. For organising outings for the young people, to running regular after school clubs, these four ladies pull together to run great events at the flats year after year for all to enjoy. The Friends of Charborough
Rd School: Nicola Bailey, Jo Clayton, Louise Russell, Layla Hyde and the many others named in the programme. They work to come up with new ideas, run events and have fun to raise funds for equipment and enhancing facilities at their school. They typically raise £10,000 a year. The Friends of Abbeywood School: Cath Johansen, Mandy Hood, Sue Baker, Alison Finn, Tracey White, Jeanne Clements, Debbie Wiltshire and the many others named in the programme. FACS was launched in September 2010 by a very small group of parents and staff, some of whom have lots of experience from their Primary school PTA or Friends and others who had no
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Filton Unsung Heroes
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August, 2012
Left, the Abbeywood School choir; above, Southern Brooks Director Julie Close and Robert Walsh of Safe Strong Communities experience at all but keen to be involved in something new. FACS has a core group of around 12 committee members who work very hard and entirely voluntarily to arrange events. ‘Silver Surfers’ volunteers: Andy Chubb, Charmaine Meechan, Chris Hawkins, Katy Cranney, Lorraine Grant, Mike Cassons, Sally Kneebone, Shaun Gleed and Lisa Smith. This group of wonderful people has supported over 40 ‘silver-haired folk’ to access computers and the world wide web over the past 2 years. St Andrew’s Methodist Church Pop-In volunteers: Doreen Watt, Sheila Hudson, Enid Hunt, Jean Lester, Bert Yeandle, Marguerite Robbins, Marian Parry, Valda Lilliman, Frank Morrissey, John Watt, Frank Thompson, Judy Thompson, George Glover, Mike Oakley, Ruth Oakley, Marion Harris, Jan Smith. This group of amazing people provide low-cost meals twice a week to about 60 older residents in Filton.
Winner: Silver Surfers Over 18 nominees: Pete Edwards
He is Chair of Filton & District Community Action Group. This group donates around £10,000 a year to good causes and projects across the local area. Donna Burgess Chair of Viewpoint Action Group, her hard work and determination led the group to receive £50,000 of Lottery Funding to redevelop the play area for the children and young people of Filton Flats. Eva Gossan Eva has been a member of staff at Abbeywood since last September and has had a huge impact in her time at the school; she is the school’s Business Manager. Debbie Wiltshire Debbie is a parent and a member of staff at Abbeywood and is very active in both roles in trying to engage the local community; she is responsible for promoting use of the school’s facilities by the local community. Cath Johansen Cath is a parent at Abbeywood and is actively involved in school life, with a particular emphasis on outreach to the wider community. She chairs the governors’ Comms Committee which focuses on communications and community and has spearheaded the drive to improve communication.
Sally Kneebone Sally has been a volunteer at St Andrew’s Youth Centre for 3 years. The club wouldn’t run without her! She helps with about 5 different sessions for all ages including our youngest and oldest regulars in the building! Ken Ofonagoro Ken has volunteered with the youth centre for 2 years and always puts the interests of young people first. Jonathan Hyde Jon’s been a student on placement at the youth club for 3 years whilst doing his youth work degree. He has been a great support at the younger youth club sessions. Lois Coulson Works tirelessly to provide wonderful lunches and dinners at The Bethany to approximately 40/50 older people monthly. Lois is a wonderful asset. Doreen Watts Has been running Pop-In for over 16 years! They provide an amazing service to the local people who come in on a Monday and Wednesday. They serve about 70 meals a week. Emma Johnson-Munroe A teaching assistant with a quiet, caring and patient manner with the students and uses her
initiative to set up ideas that will best support the individual student to cope with the daily challenges. Brian Smith Brian is an instrumental member of the Filton community and has supported many causes over the years. Above all of this, Brian runs the only registered charity in Filton which is ‘Filton Chest and Heart’. Alison Finn One of the most proactive Abbeywood parent governors we have ever come across and has received several nominations. Her commitment goes well beyond attendance at meetings and membership of interview panels. Sarah Perrett Has worked for Pyramid Youth Club in both a voluntary and paid capacity for over 15 years. Sarah helps organise fundraising activities for the youth club. Andrew Neilson Has worked for Pyramid Youth Club in both a voluntary and paid capacity for over 20 years. He has developed a very high standard of football in the club. Lesley Miles Has worked continuously for over 30 years in both a voluntary and paid capacity.
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August, 2012
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Filton Unsung Heroes
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Winners Viewpoint Action Group, Alison Finn and Silver Surfers with town council chairman Adam Monk and Robert Walsh Norman Hinds An instrumental part of the team at the Pyramid Youth Club, having worked both voluntary and paid for over 35 years. Alison Dixon Runs the St Andrew’s Toddler Group - she’s an amazing caring woman who puts her heart in to the group. Andrew Dixon Runs the Junior church groups at St Andrew’s, also is a key role within the St Andrew’s Players pantomime group and helps to run the Messy Church group at St Andrew’s Jerry Lewis A teacher at Abbeywood and active member of the Friends of Abbeywood School. He is due for retirement this year after serving 30 years at the school.
Winner: Alison Finn Under 18 nominees:
Ruby Boothman Ruby started up a cheerleading club for Year 7 at Abbeywood in January this year. Grace Downing Grace is nominated for the calm and effective manner in which she dealt with a real life emergency. Grace was walking her usual route home from
school when she saw several adults gathered around a man who had collapsed on the pavement. Grace took control of the situation by phoning for an ambulance and passing on as many details as she could onto the control centre. She then took it upon herself to talk calmly to the patient, offering re-assurance until the ambulance arrived. Eleanor Kerslake, Mason Dadds, Bradley Crew , Amy Lou Davey, Courtney Thomas, Courtney Mannings , Grace Bailey, Edward Daniels, Emma Heiron, Caitlin Barlow, Bradley Iles, Mollie Finn, Ellie Usher. These students have gained a Young First Aider qualification by completing an after school course. Tamara Choi, Frankie Long, Hannah Bartlett, Maria Patsia, Marta Benedek, Nokuthaba Moyo, Hayley Cooper, Grace O’Reilly An individual recognition for the effort passion and determination to raise awareness and money for the Human Trafficking charity ‘Unchosen’ . George Glover George was one of St Andrew’s Youth Club members and is now also a volunteer and has helped for almost 2 years. James Sun James has volunteered at St Andrew’s Youth Club for 8 months, working with members with learning difficulties. Paige Hinton Paige was a St Andrew’s Youth
Club member who has also now volunteered for a short time but is an excellent communicator and very supportive of young people with learning difficulties, as well as our younger members. She’s also helped with many of our community events to promote and fundraise for the youth centre. Tiffani Seymour Tiffani has volunteered at the St Andrew’s Youth Club for about six months but is already becoming a favourite amongst the young people. She is very creative and helps our members with learning difficulties to do a range of fun activities. She is also supporting some of our members with autism doing their Duke of Edinburgh’s Awards. Roxy Jeffreys Roxy has volunteered at St Andrews Youth Club for about 6months and is a very confident and patient young woman who helps our members with learning difficulties to do a range of fun activities. She is also supporting some of our members with autism doing their Duke of Edinburgh’s Awards. Ellie Sharp Ellie is a St Andrews Youth Club members who is always keen to help out with events and activities. She supports other youth club members and is really helpful to the staff team in clearing away or dealing with issues that come up. She is a confident and cheerful young woman and is a pleasure to work with!
Kelly Glover Kelly is one of St Andrew’s Youth Club who is always keen to help out with events and activities. She supports other youth club members and is really helpful to the staff team in clearing away or dealing with issues that come up. She helps out with lots of community events to promote and fundraise for the youth club. She is a really helpful, kind, altruistic young woman who thinks of others before herself and is a pleasure to work with! Jason Meredith Jason has been coming to St Andrew’s Youth Club youth centre for about 6 months. He is polite, kind, fun, and helpful and gets fully involved in all the activities we run. Pawel Sendor Pawel was diagnosed last Christmas with Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma, a form of cancer after it was believed he had appendicitis. Pawel has showed immense courage and bravery in fighting this life threatening illness which he has now overcome. Emma Hazzard Emma has been a regular member of Pyramid Youth Club since 2003. As well as going for the Bronze Duke of Edinburgh Award and taking part in various musical events.
Acknowledgment: Grace Browning Winner: James Sun
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Letters and opinions Filton Airfield
Missed opportunity
It’s so sad a part of history with Filton Airfield closing. The Member of Parliament for Filton and Bradley Stoke would not fight to keep it open. There would have been a perfect opportunity to put Filton Airfield on the map this year. The Olympics could have flights landing and then and then take passengers for the Olympics on a direct train to Strafford station from North Filton platform. This would have taken pressure off of Heathrow Airport. Jim, Filton Resident Primary children
Lovely pictures
Can I say how nice it was to see the smart young primary children from our local schools in last month’s Filtonvoice as they prepare to leave and move up to secondary, right. It’s a big step for them but I’m sure they will do well, with the support and teaching they will have had for the past seven years. Good luck to them all. Marion, Northville
August, 2012
www.filtonvoice.co.uk
Your views
Have you got strong views about what’s happening in Filton? Or you might want to take the opportunity to praise a friend, neighbour 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 our stories at www.filtonvoice. co.uk. Please keep letters short and the editor reserves the right to edit your letter. 10
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July, 2012
News
Farewell to our Filton YearYear 6s 6s Farewell to our Filton
July, 2012
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For Year 6 children in our primary schools, life is about to change in a very big way as they head off to secondary school in September. We thought it would be nice to capture these fine young people in their class groups before they take the next big step in their lives in education.
Cllr Moore
Poor treatment
I was very sorry to learn of Councillor Moore’s treatment at the hands of Filton Labour party, resulting in his resignation. Whilst the Labour party claim to have honest principles, to refuse an open investigation when a councillor publicly states he felt he was bullied and residents are being discussed, is a huge mistake. People who vote in Filton are shocked and Filton Labour continue to stone wall transparent politics. I also feel Labour’s Adam Monk and Ian Scott continue to shield their colleague and people are getting wise to this. People are leaving the party and seeing Conservative councillors putting them to shame at council meetings. Name supplied Conygre House
Ideas ‘not viable’
Story: The Friends of Conygre
Charborough Road Primary with class teacher Mr Walters
St Teresa’s Primary with class teacher Mrs Kellehar
Shield Road Primary with class teacher Miss Harris
Filton Hill Primary with class teacher Mrs Thomas
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House have said that the economic climate, lack of grant funding sources and the squeeze on local authorities resulted in the project to buy an refurbish the site being shelved. Last month it was announced that the historic building would be put up for sale by South Glos Council. A feasibility study, funded by £1,500 from Filton Town Council, failed to identify a way forward.
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l Are you seriously telling me that they needed to spend £1500 to be told their ideas were not viable? Everyone knew it way before they asked for a grant. I was witness to the presentation by Mr Blake to council when he asked for the money, the reasons given were that school children were upset and wanted it the house saved and that it would make a good polling station or post office. All done verbally with no
written evidence, council handed over the money because it was a Labour member asking. Filtonian l Surely it is now time after another Filton fiasco over more lost money to those Labour councillors who supported this to step down. We all knew this was a lost cause, but frankly those Labour Filton group members who stuck up their hands and voted to
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August, 2012
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Letters and opinions give a grant to something which was never going to happen was despicable. Save Conygre house was splashed all over the Labour leaflets at the elections and now you don’t hear a thing. Helen l All sounds like excuses to me. None of this is new information and was the case before the money was handed over for an in depth “report”. Where is this report? Why hasn’t it ever been published? The Conygre house website hasn’t been updated since Feb 2011! No report published on the site? How funny now that the Labour councillors who supported this cause before the 2011 elections have now withered away and aren’t connected to it. Trying to disassociate themselves from another PR spending disaster. Terry Finance committee
Correction
We would like to clarify that Cllr Moore did not receive a unanimous vote to remain as chair of finance as reported in your July edition. Two of his own Labour members, Brian Mead (chair of Filton Labour) and Andrew Chubb voted against Mr Moore. Others councillors abstained from voting completely, only Mr Monk voted in favour. Please can you print a correction in next month’s edition and clarify the voting. Filton Independent Party Editor’s note: you are right with regard to the voting. The
reference in the July edition was to the May meeting where Cllr Moore called for a vote of confidence in himself and this was carried unanimously. This was mistakenly described as ‘last month’ and we apologise for the mistake. Remote controlled planes
Warden needed
Story: Video footage has been posted online of a remote controlled plane flying around Elm Park fields. The plane, which has a camera attached, is seen flying across the field here, over houses and close to people walking. l This pastime has been allowed to take place on Elm park for years. The number of times I have walked across the fields dodging a plane like a flying bullet I’ve lost count. Kids playing golf, riding motorbikes, the fields just aren’t monitored by the council. We should have a warden. Last week there were thrill seekers flying a huge kite which had four metal strings like the ones used for kite surfing. They struggled to keep it under control. Really dangerous. Surely the council carry out proper risk assessments and should have clear signs around the field. If not they could be sued to kingdom come. Walter
YOU FIP? These FIP cowards are quite happy to snipe from the sidelines and attack others who put their necks on the line. Who are you FIP? If you are part of the democratic process then identify yourselves. Are you the voices of the nation who put up a stooge as an independent candidate last year, to be your puppet on the town council and who thankfully didn’t get elected. Are you the people we see in the public gallery every month of FTC – cheering on and greeting those councillors who happen to be your flavour of the month – who you then savage the minute that don’t agree with you? And always attacking poor Roger too. Are you legitimate politicians or do you come from left field and attack public servants? When we see you at the next FTC meeting will you identify yourselves and who you are supporting this month? ‘Many An’
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lWe find it rather strange that you choose yourself to attack democracy from behind an anonymous identity to make your comments. It would be far more constructive to speak up in person at such meetings you reference. It is very satisfying to know that our statements are being read by you and you are taking notice. Our cause is one that anyone can be part of but doesn’t require membership or secret meetings. As for our cause, we will launch our challenge to Filton Labour party when the appropriate election time comes, in the meantime we are ready for you to join us when you decide you want to stand for fairness and democracy and not a brotherhood which is destroying Filton to the core. Our website launches very soon so watch this space! Filton Independent Party
Filton Independent Party
Reveal yourselves
How often have we read — A Filton INDEPENDENT PARTY spokesman says……WHO ARE
PLUS Loads of special FUN Events on dates throughout the Summer Holidays Jingle Pops Go Karts Open Air Theatre Thornbury Town Band Mini Olympics Schools in the Forest Celebration Crafts Punch & Judy FOR DATES AND DETAILS GO TO OUR WEBSITE
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Twinning visit
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August, 2012
Filton’s twinning partners, from St Vallier-sur-Rhone in France and Witzenhausen in Germany, enjoyed a slap-up meal and some ‘Olympic’ fun on their arrival in the town this month. The group of around 80 people are the hosts of Filton Twinning Association which organised a week of events around the Bristol area. After a service at Filton Church, host families and guests gathered for a meal at Elm Park before the TwinOlympics, organised by St Andrew’s Youth Club, pictured below. Later in the week they were due to enjoy a barn dance, and trips to Weston and Minehead before a farewell evening. Among the guests were the traditional cherry princesses from Witzenhausen, Jennifer Schrader and Julia Junghard. The guests were officially welcomed to Filton by council chairman Adam Monk. Pictures right and above by Rikki Teml www.rmtphotos. co.uk
QUALITY CARPETS Your LOCAL carpet shop Large selection of carpets & vinyls in stock Free measuring and estimating service
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August, 2012
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News New stadium for Rovers on Filton border wins approval South Gloucestershire has approved plans to build a new 21,700 seater stadium near the University of the West of England (UWE) at Stoke Gifford, near the Filton boundary. The stadium, which will become the new home for Bristol Rovers Football Club, was approved subject to a planning obligation relating to a suite of transport measures including contributions toward local transport infrastructure and the prevention of uncontrolled on street car parking and other planning conditions. People in Filton living close to the MoD base at nearby Abbeywood have previously complained about their streets being used as a car park by MoD workers. The stadium plans include a range of additional facilities such as a gym and convenience store as well as teaching space for UWE. A thousand car parking spaces will also be provided as part of the development. Rovers chairman Nick Higgs said: “This application is a unique partnership between professional sport and education in South Gloucestershire and will bring national recognition to the region, being the first of its kind in the UK. “The development will be privately financed without the input of public finance, yet will provide our partners UWE with a much needed replacement car park, which will be shared on event days with the football club. “In addition the new stadium will provide much needed community facilities, including a gymnasium, convenience store, meeting rooms, banquet hall, bars and a covered jogging track. “If we prosper and are successful the knock-on effect is a huge feel-good factor for the area. This is demonstrated by the recent success of Swansea City, Reading and Brighton to name a few. It is our ambition to emulate the success of these clubs, and a new stadium in the club’s heartland of South Gloucestershire is the first stage of this process.”
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The chairman said that the club wished to be a good neighbour and wanted to work with the local community. He said: “We have undertaken extensive consultations and incorporated numerous design changes throughout this time, after listening to the views of local residents, local businesses and South Gloucestershire Council and Highways Departments. “Wherever possible we have taken on board suggestions and recommendations in an effort to satisfy concerns of all parties and adjusted our proposals accordingly. “It would be our wish to be a good neighbour and we will continue to work with the local community.” Welcoming the decision, chair of the council’s Development Control (West) Committee Cllr Dave Hockey, said: “This stadium has been a long time in development and will be a very welcome addition to South Gloucestershire’s cultural and sporting amenities.” The council received 1,126 letters of support for the proposal and 154 letters of objection. Work on the stadium is expected to begin in January 2013 with an anticipated completion date of Spring 2014.
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August, 2012
Filton school news Gold medals for young speakers at competition St Teresa’s Catholic Primary school recently linked up with Ashley Down, St Mary Redcliffe, Easton and Sea Mills primary schools to hold a joint speaking competition around the subject of the Olympics. Each of the schools explicitly teaches core learning skills and this term’s focus was speaking and listening. Every child in KS1 and 2 took part in their own class competition with the winner from each class going through to a whole school competition. The best speaker from each key stage then went through to the interschool competition which was held on 11th July in St Teresa’s School’s new amphitheatre. The Lord Mayor was in attendance and Ben Prater from Radio Bristol’s Drivetime show and Richard Coulter from Filtonvoice had the unenviable task of judging. Mr Coulter said: “The standard was very high and the speakers had clearly spent a lot of time working on both the content and the delivery. “Ben and I had great difficulty sorting out winners in each category.” Rubin Halder from St Teresa’s Year 2 was the winner for Key Stage 1 and Ruby Ross from Ashley Down was the Key Stage 2 winner. The school choir rounded off a lovely afternoon with their performance of ‘Proud’.
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August, 2012
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Filton school news
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It was the end of the first stage in their education journey for these youngsters at Filton Park Pre-School in Charborough Road. A Leavers’ Party was held for children about to begin primary school in September and a great time was had by all.
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Getting ready for university life
Students in Filton preparing for life at university have an opportunity to participate in a free two-week course to learn essential Uni survival skills and gain qualifications that will assist in landing a part time job. Starting on September 3, SGS College is offering this unique fast track course, in Bristol, Stroud and Gloucester. Participants will learn about managing budgets, cooking curry, study skills and more. The course also gives learners qualifications to improve chances of getting a part time job including BIIAB Level 2 Award for Personal License (needed for bar work), First Aid certificate and Employability and Customer Service certificate. Learners will also get a free lunch every day. “It’s a great way to build confidence and meet others going to Uni,” a spokesperson said. For more information please call: 0800 056 6940 or email info@filton.ac.uk. Spaces limited.
Abbeywood Community School New Road, Stoke Gifford, Bristol BS34 8SF www.abbeywoodschool.com
Open Evening Wednesday 3rd October 2012 6-8pm Executive Headteacher talks at 6pm & 6.45pm Opening mornings 5th and 9th October 2012. Tours at 9am, 10am and 11.30 am by appointment only To book please phone 0117 3075660 or Email: info@abbeywoodschool.com To advertise, contact Richard on 0777 555 0607, Emma on 0771 577 0448 or Wendy on 0771 577 0242. Email: adverts@filtonvoice.co.uk
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August, 2012
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News
MP suited and booted for
Filton Library and others across across South Gloucestershire taking part in this year’s summer reading challenge. Children are encouraged to take up the ‘story lab’ themed challenge, by reading just six books of their own choice during the summer. Everyone who completes the challenge will receive a certificate and a medal. Just visit the library until 16 September and ask for a free 3D lab to get started. The challenge kicked off with a visit from children’s illustrator Chris Fisher to Filton Library on Saturday 14 July. For more information visit www.southglos.gov.uk/LeisureCulture/libraries or telephone 01454 868006. l Event to come at Filton Library: Horrid Henry literacy workshop; Thursday 16 August, 11am - 12pm
Filton and Bradley Stoke MP, Jack Lopresti visited South Gloucestershire and Stroud (SGS) College to take a look at the College’s successful Suited Booted Recruited course in action. Mr Lopresti spent time speaking with learners, asking about the course and discussing job prospects in Filton and surrounding areas. He said: “I am impressed by the way in which SGS has structured Suited Booted Recruited. The course promotes real social mobility by offering positive benefits to students of all ages and backgrounds. “They learn a wide range of skills necessary in the workplace and gain a real boost in confidence to help their prospects of gaining employment.” The two-week course gives participants recognised qualifications valued by employers with a guaranteed job interview at the end of the course.
Reading challenge
WESTERLEIGH PARK NURSERIES • Irish Compost (each bag 70 litres) **Our Offer ... 3 for £10** • Large selection of Shrubs, Plants and Trees • 25 Kg Bag of Potatoes = £4.99 • Come and see our Deli we have superb offers, for • example Bacon, Ham & Cheese approx. 1lb of each for only £5.50 • Fresh Pies and Pasties when available.
Oakley Green, Westerleigh Hill Road, Westerleigh, Bristol, BS37 8QZ 0117 956 5050
Abby Coleman, Programme Manager, said: “SBR (Suited, Booted, Recruited) is a highly successful and innovative course. “Many of our learners comment on how SBR has boosted their skills and knowledge as well as their
confidence. These are just two of our many learners that grasped the concept of the SBR course and contributed fully to every aspect of it.” Jack Lopresti meets students on the Suited Booted Recruited course, above and right
Gales Farm Meats
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• Chicken, Lamb, Beef & • Deli Cheese and Chutney Pork • Marinated Meats/ • Homemade Faggots Kebabs – ideal for • Speciality Sausages BBQ • Homemade Pies and • Fresh Vegetables Pasties and Groceries • Home-cooked Meats always available and Cured Bacon Tel: 0117 969 1232 4 Church View, Filton, Bristol BS34 7BT Also Gales of Westbury Park, 31 North View, Westbury Park Good old-fashioned service www.galesfarmmeats.co.uk
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www.filtonvoice.co.uk filtonvoice Council tax benefit changes college course E: richard@filtonvoice.co.uk
August, 2012
In response to government plans to abolish council tax benefit, South Glos Council is looking to introduce a new scheme which will support hard-working families and pensioners in Filton and bring empty homes back into use while keeping the overall level of council tax as low as possible. Councils across the country must develop their own local council tax support schemes to replace the abolished council tax benefit. The government currently covers the cost of council tax benefit awards but when the new local council tax support scheme is introduced the grant will be reduced by at least 10 per cent. This means that there will be a grant shortfall estimated at £1.4 million to be able to continue to support residents at the same level. Dave Perry, director of corporate resources, said: “We are currently consulting on a scheme which is broadly similar to the current council tax benefit
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0844 897 8000 www.slimmingworld.com
scheme, which maintains the premiums and personal allowances for 2012/13, with the exception of removing the second adult rebate. Second adult rebate can be claimed by people whose own income is too high to receive council tax benefit but have other adult(s) in the household whose income is low. There will be no change to the amount of help pensioners currently receive. “However, this proposal will not cover the shortfall in cost and will require the council to find savings elsewhere. Rather than reduce other services to meet this shortfall, we are proposing to review some of the council tax discretionary discounts that are going to be introduced from 1 April 2013 and apply an additional levy on properties that have been left empty for two years or more.” • Visit the website: www.southglos.gov.uk/ counciltaxbenefitchanges where you can download information or call 01454 868002
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News
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Labour ‘should be banned’ until complaint is probed Filton’s Labour branch should be barred from using town council premises until an investigation into the complaints and treatment of Cllr Bill Moore is carried out, a meeting heard. Resident Stephen Rylatt, a Labour member, told the town council he was concerned after Cllr Moore resigned from the local Labour branch, citing bullying and the issue of party members ‘talking behind residents backs’. Mr Rylatt said: “As ratepayers we should object to the premises being used by Labour as they are not carrying out an investigation. And I am a Labour supporter.” It is understood the original complaint came after a disagreement between Cllr Moore and Cllr Roger Hutchinson. In last month’s Filtonvoice, Cllr Hutchinson,
secretary of the local branch, said there would be no investigation, saying: “I asked Mr Moore a question and in no way could what happened between him and me be described as bullying. I asked him a legitimate question and he gave an answer. “As to the issue of talking about people in private, the position is as I have stated, we discuss politics and take account of comments made by people on anything that arises as do all manner of organisations in our democracy. No investigation will be instigated by the branch as nothing as described and
repeated by people in the press, who weren’t there so wouldn’t know, took place.” Cllr Rikki Teml (Con) said that in a hypothetical situation, if a sports club using the premises had a coach who was alleged to have carried out bullying, the council would have to think twice about the rental. Cllr Adam Monk (Lab), the council chair, said there should be a code of conduct for any third party using the premises and the town clerk said she would get advice on the matter. Resident Darren Nation said the council needed to make ‘tough decisions’ on this issue. Local party member Brian Smith told Filtonvoice he had requested to resign from the local branch amid concern for Cllr Moore but the party had told him that was not possible.
August, 2012
PC tips with Graham Simmonds of goto iT
August: Backup It is often the last thing you might think of, but making sure you have a copy of all your data, including your documents, photos and emails is essential. Unfortunately computers sometimes go wrong, are stolen, or get damaged and it is not always possible to recover the information. Just imagine how you would feel if you lost all those old irreplaceable photos of the family holidays or the documents essential to your business. At the very least copy the files onto a memory stick or an external hard drive. You can even get software to do it for you or buy into an online service to backup automatically. If you would like some help deciding which type of backup is best for you, contact us first on 0117 969 8767 or visit us in our shop on the corner of Filton Ave and the A4174.
Horse skills events
Members Of the South West Scorpions wheelchair basketball squad visited Sainsbury’s in Filton to prepare for their Guinness World Record attempt. The team was due to be playing for more than 30 hours over the weekend of August 11-12, beginning at 10am. They want as many people as possible to join them at the Wise Campus of South Glos and Stroud College (Filton College). Their fundraising day at Sainsbury’s raised more than £500. See next month’s issue for a report on the record attempt. www.southwestwbc.com
A series of events aimed at Filton horse enthusiasts are being hosted by City of Bristol College. Two careers evenings and other special equine events will be held to highlight college facilities and provide information about courses. Equine Career Evenings 16th and 28th August, 4-8pm at City of Bristol College, South Bristol Skills Academy, The Boulevard, Hengrove Park, Bristol. Equine Events - 15th August and 2nd September at Urchinwood Equestrian Centre, Congresbury.
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August, 2012
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A lot more than just books Last month, James Kloska from Filton joined Filtonvoice on work experience. Here is his report from the revamped Filton Library
James at one of the terminals; right, the exterior; below right, the children’s section; bottom right, the self-checkout machine; and bottom left, the library team Filton Library has re opened after a major refurbishment which includes a larger selection of books suitable for all ages. The service has also introduced selfservice units to reduce queuing. The amount of computers has also been increased from nine free public IT services to 13 PCs available for free public use. Funding for the refurbishment for the library has come from section 106 agreement with the developers of the Hewlett Packard site to provide facilties for the new residents. The library celebrated its opening on the 14 June with a visit from award-winning actor
Gordon Griffin. Over the past 20 years, Gordon has recorded over 500 audiobooks. He read extracts from the audiobooks he has helped to create and talk about the painstaking preparation that goes into transforming the printed word into spoken word. The library has not only increased its amount of books and PCs and improved on many things but it has also updated the layout of the library. It now looks more modern and cleaner and gives a calming effect. There is also more things for children to use and activities, for example every Tuesday morning there is sing song and rhyme time for smaller children.
The long-awaited feature on the cafe at Filton Church will appear next month. The delay has been due to techincal issues with the photographs. We apologise for the delay
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• The leisure centre reception is open Monday to Friday 9am – 7.30pm and weekends 9am – 5.30pm. Pop in and see us or ring on 01454 866686 for information.
Summer holiday programme HOLIDAY CAMP @ FILTON, 14th August A day packed full of activities for your child to have fun. Early Bird special, drop the kids off at 8am l Age 4 – 11 years, 9.00am 3.30pm, max 26 children, £16.10+£2.00 Early Bird KIDS’ PLAY TIME, 13th, 20th, 22nd August ‘School’s out’, ‘Time out’. 2 hours of fun for your child. Please bring a drink and clothes suitable for indoor and outdoor play. l Age 4 – 11 years,10.00am – 12.00 noon, max 26 children, £6.70 A CELEBRATION OF SPORT 16th, 23rd August Join our Holiday Team for a day of sport. Please bring a packed lunch, drinks and suitable clothes for indoors and outdoors. Early Bird, drop the kids off at 8am l Age 7 – 11 years 9.00am – 3.30pm, max 24 children, £16.10 +£2.00 Early Bird
SOCCER TOTS 13th, 20th August 2012 A great start for the young football player. Our coach provides a safe, fun and learning environment. Ideal for social interaction. Please bring plenty to drink. l Age 3 – 4 years, 1.00pm – 1.45pm, max 8 children, £4.90 MUSIC TOTS 15th, 22nd August l Age 3 – 4 years, 1.00pm – 1.45pm, max 12 children, £4.90 CUP CAKES TO GO 15th August 2012 l Age 4 - 11 years, 10.00am – 12.00pm, max 16 children, £6.70 CAPTAIN WHO? AND HIS PIRATE CREW 21st August Let your imagination run wild in our themed holiday camp @ Filton. l Age 4 - 11 years, 9.00am – 3.30pm, max 26 children, £16.10 See Reception for more details 01454 866686
Filton Town Council meetings August No meetings in August
11th, 7.30pm, Finance Committee, Pavilion
September 4th, 7.00pm, Consultative Ctte (followed by Staffing Ctte), Small Meeting Room NOT OPEN TO PUBLIC
18th, 7.30pm, Planning Committee, Small Meeting Room 25th, 7.30pm, Full Council, Pavilion
Community garden consultation As a council, we are proud to be supporting the Community Garden project, with an initial budget of £5,000. Now we want people to get involved and to hear their views. This consultation runs until the end of August. Please fill out the form below with your views.
YES
NO
I/we support the community garden project I/we support funding of the garden for community use Name ................................................................................................................. Address .............................................................................................................. Email (optional) .................................................................................................. Phone number (optional) ....................................................................................
Tick where appropriate
Return by August 31 by post to Community Garden Consultation, Filton Town Council, Elm Park, Filton BS34 7PS or hand in to the council offices. You can also reply online at www.filtontowncouncil.gov.uk
• Contact the town council office Tel: 01454 866 698; Leisure Centre Tel: 01454 866686; or our website www.filtontowncouncil.gov.uk
We want YOUR views on ‘MUGA’ This is how Filton’s proposed ‘MUGA’ (Multi-Use Games Area) and Astroturf court could look. We have chosen our preferred contractor - SMP Playgrounds - who have created this vision for the facility at Elm Park, to replace the existing tennis courts. It would consist of a MUGA, seen here as the black court, which could be free for community use and also for hire for tennis. The Astroturf court, in green, would be for hire for such as football and there would be a ‘Panna’, or practice court, at the bottom. We hope to fund this entirely with grant money and public meetings will follow this consultation. Now we want your views on this exciting plan. Please fill out the form below BY SEPTEMBER 30 and return to the council offices or visit www.filtontowncouncil.gov.uk
YES
NO
I/we support the MUGA/astroturf Would you or family members use it? What sports would you like it to cater for? Filton Town Council are pleased to announce the launch of their brand new website which went live in June 2012. The new website boasts a completely new look and feel and gives residents access to details on The Filton Leisure Centre, The Ratepayers Arms and, of course, the council itself. There’s also a latest news and events section as well as a calendar of up and coming council
meetings for your diary. For your convenience we’ve also included live feeds from BBC Local News & Weather, South Glos Consultations, Avon & Somerset Police and of course filtonvoice. list inmonths box below OverPlease the coming we plan to build on the content we already offer through the website in the hope it will become a valued resource for communicating with the residents of Filton.
Name ................................................................................................................. Address .............................................................................................................. Email (optional) .................................................................................................. Phone number (optional) ....................................................................................
Return by September 30 by post to MUGA Consultation, Filton Town Council, Elm Park, Filton BS34 7PS or hand in to the council offices. You can also reply online at www.filtontowncouncil.gov.uk
Event Name:
Date(s):
Venue(s):
Time(s):
Event Info:
Come and try it cycling
15th September 2012 Filton Sports Centre & Cycle Speedway Track, Elm Park 10am-1pm
Inspired by British Cyclists at the Olympics? Like to have a go? Did you know that there is a cycling track in Filton? Why not come and try it? All ages and abilities welcome! Please bring clothes suitable for cycling and your bike! Other bikes will also be available for you to try! Like to join a club? Find out how on the day!
Get an Entry Form From:
no entry form required
Return Entry Form To:
Any questions? Please call 01454 862296
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August, 2012
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Plane dangerous
Video footage has been posted online of a remote controlled plane flying around Elm Park fields. The plane, which has a camera attached, is seen flying across the field, over houses and close to people walking. The poster, on Youtube, says: “Note the aborted landing as I just noticed there was some people on the landing strip.” At a meeting of the town council, some councillors expressed concern about public safety. Cllr Rikki Teml gave a
presentation on the damage which could be caused and the town clerk was due to speak to the council’s insurers and carry our a risk assessment. There were also complaints about remote controlled planes flying during the recent Filton festival. One resident said: “I would be incredibly worried walking across a public field with this sort of things going on.” Letters: Page 15 The video can be viewd at http://www.youtube. com/watch?v=YXTyqo-t_ XA&feature=youtu.be
To advertise, contact Richard on 0777 555 0607, Emma on 0771 577 0448 or Wendy on 0771 577 0242. Email: adverts@filtonvoice.co.uk
TACT Advert:TACT Advert
04/11/2010
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August, 2012MICROCHIPS E: richard@filtonvoice.co.uk OFF
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Residents say Filton streets a “disgrace”
Keep your pets safe, with Michael Parry * Offer ends 31st May 2012. Not to be used in conjunction with any other offer.
Vets4Pets See our advert Filton on Page 17
O
There are lots of nasty diseases out there that cats and dogs can catch. Vaccinations are the best way to protect your pet from some of the worst ones. Because we love pets so much at Vets4Pets, until 31st August, we are reducing the cost of all primary course and booster vaccinations for cats and dogs to just £15 per injection. That’s a fantastic saving and a small price to pay to keep your pet happy and healthy! • Protect against lifethreatening diseases like Parvo, Distemper, Hepatitis, Leptospirosis, Cat flu, Enteritis and Leukaemia • Save money with this fantastic special offer
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• Your pet will receive a full health assessment with their vaccination for free from a Vets4Pets Veterinary surgeon Vaccinate your cat or dog today for just £15! Call 0117 969 8400 to book your appointment.
The general state of pavements in Filton has been raised by residents at a public meeting. Several people told Filton Town Council that Filton looks “decayed and tatty”. One resident, who lives in Filton Avenue, told the council that the recent work being done outside homes had led to a large hole being left in the pavement. He told the meeting: “The people of Almondsbury or Alveston wouldn’t put up with it.” Councillor Rikki Teml agreed with the resident, and said there seemed to be a lot of weeds growing on verges, especially in Conygre ward. He said: “I was at a meeting recently in Kingswood and it seems that we in Filton are forgotten but they are not.” Another resident said EmmaChris Way, the “gateway” to Filton for some rail travellers, was a “disgrace”. Maintenance work of streets in Filton is the responsibility of South Glos Council.
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August, 2012
Sport Festival glory for Filton pupils
Above, the Charborough Road team; right, Charborough Road’s Greg Hayward; and below, all the athletes Hundreds of children and young people from across South Gloucestershire, including a team from Charborough Road School in Filton, descended on the South Gloucestershire and Stroud College WISE Campus for the 11th Festival of Youth Sport. In the run-up to the day, children had been receiving coaching in various sports at their own schools before competing in the biggest sports day of its kind organised for youngsters in the West. The event was officially opened by Cllr Ian Boulton, Vice Chairman of South Gloucestershire Council, along with TV presenter Sherrie Eugene Hart. Sponsors Airbus provided some added entertainment when employee Tim Cooke and friends skydived into the arena and local bhangra group RSVP lead a lively procession around the track before the event was officially declared open. Braving the wet weather, young people competed in a variety of sports including athletics, pop lacrosse, tri golf, KS1 multi-skills, multi-skills tennis and girls cricket. The winners were: Athletics – Charborough
Road Primary School, Filton Multi-skills tennis – St Paul’s Primary School, Yate Girls cricket – St Anne’s Primary School, Oldland Common Tri golf – St Stephen’s Juniors, Kingswood KS1 multi skills – Raysfield Infant School, Chipping Sodbury
Pop lacrosse – St Barnabas Primary, North Common Fairplay awards were presented to teams who showed great sportsmanship on the day including TyndalePrimary School in Yate, St Michael’s Primary School in Winterbourne, Hanham Abbots Junior School in Hanham and The Tynings School in Kingswood.
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Filton planning applications and decisions, July Applications Demolition of existing garage and erection of 1 detached garage. 33 Branksome Drive, Filton Erection of single storey side and rear extension to provide additional living accommodation. Consent to extend time limit implementation for PT09/1242/F. 12 Clyde Grove, Filton Park Erection of single storey rear extension to provide additional living accommodation. 41 Kenmore Crescent, Filton Creation of 5 parking spaces to facilitate change of use of dwelling from residential (class C3) to house in multiple occupation (sui generis) as defined in the Town and Country Planning (Use Classes) Order 1987 (as amended) 1 Broncksea Road, Filton Conversion of 2 existing attached dwellings to form 4 flats with new access, parking spaces and associated works to include two storey rear extension and alteration to roofline of existing single storey rear extension. (Resubmission of PT12/1406/F). 26 And 28 Tenth Avenue, Filton Bristol South Gloucestershire BS7 0QL
Erection of 1 no detached bungalow, new pedestrian access and associated works. (Amendment to previously approved scheme PT11/0837/F). 2 Gayner Road, Filton Decisions Non-material amendment to PT12/0908/F to change material from powdercoated aluminium to coloured pvc. 1-58 Springfields, Gloucester Road, Filton No Objection
YOUR school in YOUR community
Join us at our Open Nights for entry in 2013 Thursday, September 13 6.30-8.30pm Thursday, October 4 6.30-8.30pm
Erection of valeting bay and roof to existing car wash facilities. Drive Bristol North, Gloucester Road, Patchway Approve with Conditions Application for Certificate of Lawfulness for the proposed alterations to roof and installation of rear dormer to facilitate loft conversion. 27 Warren Road, Filton Approve with Conditions Conversion of existing dwelling to form 2 flats, including the erection of a single storey rear extension and associated works 736 Filton Avenue, Filton Approve with Conditions Erection of a two storey rear and single storey side extension to form additional living accommodation 43 Bridgman Grove, Filton Approve with Conditions
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Orchard School Bristol, Filton Road, Bristol BS7 0XZ 0117 377 2000 admin@orchardschoolbristol.co.uk www.orchardschoolbristol.co.uk
Flowers in Bloom Florist in the heart of Filton
From stunning bouquets and baskets to personalised tributes or sympathy flowers, we can provide you with an arrangement to suit your design and budget for any occasion, with local or national delivery.
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100 suspected cannabis plants seized in Filton
Police have seized around 100 suspected cannabis plants from a house in Mortimer Road, Filton, as part of Operation Viscount. Officers were called to the property at about 12.25pm on Monday August 6 by a neighbour who knew the house was vacant and heard noises inside. A 24-year-old man was
arrested nearby and remained in police custody as Filtonvoice went to press. The property was secured overnight and the electricity supplier attended to make the supply safe. Officers seized mature plants and hydroponic equipment used to grow them. Neighbourhood Sergeant
August, 2012
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Steve Ives said: “We continue to target and tackle cannabis supply in South Gloucestershire. This latest seizure shows that we continue to get results. All the plants will be destroyed. “Anyone with any information on drugs supply in their area is asked to contact police on 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”
The organisers of the Sidwells Sports Day would like to say a big thankyou for all the effort put in at the event at Ashley Down Old Boys’ Rugby Club, held in July. They raised £1,463.55 which was a huge success. It was bit touch and go with the weather for a while but the sun was kind to them. Their chosen charity was the Children’s Hospice South West and they hope to be able to continue with this event next year.
Health Matters, with Dr Liz Lee, Horfield Health Centre We are seeing more chicken pox than usual at the moment. Chicken pox often starts with a day or two of feeling hot and unwell followed by crops of itchy blistering spots that appear anywhere on the body. These continue to develop over several days. Children are treated with paracetamol for fever and Piriton or Calamine lotion for itching. Teenagers and adults are also offered antiviral medicines. Maximum infectivity is from two days before the rash develops until six days after the last crop of spots has appeared and you are not allowed to travel by air during this period. In pregnant women, newborn babies and people who have low immunity, chicken pox can be a very serious illness. For this reason even if you have a mild illness you should stay at home until the last crop of spots have scabbed over.
WAY-A-HEAD HAIR SALON
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Free parking to continue amid fears problems could get worse Councillor says too many commuter cars being left on local roads
Free parking will continue in Filton after South Glos councillors voted unanimously to retain the policy. Last month, Conservative councillors pledged to fight to retain free car parking as Council policy across the district. They tabled a motion to last month’s council meeting calling on the authority to retain free car parking as policy now that all three political parties have recently started to run South Glos through a series of old style committees.
Town councillor Rikki Teml, above, told the meeting: “Currently in Filton we have the highest council tax charge in South Glos, and charging for parking would stretch households even further. “The bigger issue to charging for parking would be that many vehicles would start to park on local streets to avoid the charges. In Filton, many areas already have major issues with vehicles parking on local streets. Many employers have ceased to allow parking for employees within
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certain radius, this has increased the number of vehicles on public streets. Areas with major concerns are around the MOD, college and Southmead Hospital including Kenmore, Station Road, Boverton and Mayville to name a few. “Further pressures on these areas may well come when the new Southmead Hospital opens.” Filtonvoice has previously reported on problems for residents who said they felt the area was being ‘invaded’ by workers from the big employers.
Free parking in Filton l Station Rd/Filton Ave 12 bays/3 disabled bays 2 hour stay l Link Rd/Church View 31/4 disabled 2 hours l Gloucester Rd North/ Filton Rd 58/1 motorcycle/2 disabled 12 hours l Abbey Wood 45/1 motorcycle 12 hours
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August, 2012
Feature - King George VI Pub
New family team wants a family atmosphere at landmark pub Debbie and her team looking to transform venue - and customers give thumbs up Debbie Holman and her family know a thing or two about the pub trade - and now they have big plans to make Filton’s King George VI into a real family venue. They have taken over management of the pub on the junction of Filton Avenue and the ring road and they want to transform both the look of the place and its image. Already they have begun refurbishment of the bar area and the six rooms for rental upstairs, and the pub reopened last month after a few weeks of being closed. Debbie - with husband Nick, son Luke Murphy, her mum and dad Lin and John Davey along with friends Ashley Chersterman and Maria Feltham - has always worked in the pub industry, having been employed at the King George VI before. She said: “We thought that when it became available, we could change things. The place had gone downhill a bit. We have a good reputation, people know us and we want a clean, family pub with a welcoming atmosphere.” She said the team would not tolerate any kind of anti-social behaviour and said many of the regulars were already excited about the changes. She said: “We have a very tough attitude towards that kind of thing.” The team also say they will be looking to develop their food menus over and above the current snacks on offer and they are also open from 10am each day for coffees. They will be starting a pool and darts team in the near future. Debbie said: “We just think this pub has so much potential.”
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August, 2012
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Filton Library knitting group presented Tracey Mountford of the Salvation Army with a cheque for £161, pictured, collected at their meetings over the past year. Members of the group say they find a lot of pleasure coming to the library to enjoy their hobby with fellow knitters and they wanted to give others pleasure in return. A spokeswoman said: “We enjoy the social aspect, mixing with people with the same interests and we swap patterns and ideas. Knitting together in the library provides us with a great environment to do this. We are all avid library users and enjoy borrowing books on knitting too.” The group consists of a mix of ages and abilities. They welcome newcomers and are also happy to show people how to knit if they want to learn a new skill.” l Filton Library Knitting Group meets every Thursday 5.45pm–6.45pm. 811_A5L_EDGE_Refurb_234099.ai
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Knitters hand over £161
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Filton Fashion
Win a fabulous Mall makeover with Mark! Women from Filton could get a fabulous makeover as part of Bristol Fashion Week at The Mall, Cribbs Causeway, next month. TV Stylist and Bristol Fashion Week presenter Mark Heyes will be treating five special people to a style and beauty makeover at the event, which runs from September 26-30. A Mall spokesperson said: “Women feel sexiest at 28, a new survey has found, but as this represents only 10% of women living in Bristol (women aged 2229), how can the other 90% get a confidence boost? “The Mall is now on a mission to give women in the South West a boost and reclaim their confidence. Each makeover model* will be treated to a personal styling session with Britain’s most trusted fashion advisor, who will take them on the ultimate fashion journey to find a fabulous outfit to wear on the Bristol Fashion Week catwalk; and then keep. “After completing their look with a colour consultation and re-style at top hair salon Toni&Guy, the models will be treated to a cosmetic makeover and consultation with Bobbi Brown at John Lewis before taking to the catwalk to show off their stylish transformations.”
Heather Rowley models her fab new look with Mark Heyes and Andrew Barton at Bristol Fashion Week in March
* Entrants must be aged 18 or over and be available on Thursday 19th September when Mark Heyes will whisk them off to find a fabulous outfit to wear on the catwalk. This outfit will be theirs to keep! **Entrants must be available to model their outfits in the fashion shows on one day of the Bristol Fashion Week event which runs from Wednesday 26th – Sunday 30th September 2012
Facts
Mark Heyes said: “It’s amazing just how much difference a new outfit can make. “No matter what your shape it’s all about celebrating your body, and making the most of your assets.” “The makeover models I’ve worked with at Bristol Fashion Week have been just fantastic.” “They’ve all had such different reasons for entering, from body shape confidence issues, to women who put everyone else first and leave no time for themselves. I just love seeing the reaction when they walk out onto
that catwalk, looking fantastic and feeling sexy and confident.” Heather Rowley showcased her new look on the Bristol Fashion Week Catwalk in March: “Being a makeover model was such an amazing experience; I never thought I’d win. I still receive so many compliments about my new look. I feel like a completely new woman!” l Full details on how to enter, or nominate a deserving winner at www.mallcribbs.com Entries must be received before midnight on Monday 3rd September 2012
l Bristol Fashion Week runs from Wednesday 26th – Sunday 30th September. Tickets on sale online www. mallcribbs.com or The Mall’s information Desk. l #BFW12 to join the fashion conversation. l Bristol Fashion Week includes 18, hour-long fashion shows, spread over five days to showcase the best trends available at The Mall. l Tickets on-sale at The Mall’s Information Desk or www.mallcribbs.com l Platinum FROW ticket (£13.95) or standard ticket (£8.95). l Tickets include a BFW goody bag
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August, 2012
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Mrs Dawson’s Filton kitchen
Fashion capital September sees the return of the city’s
biggest fashion event; Bristol Fashion Week, bringing catwalk glamour to the south west. With tickets now on sale, the race is on to book those coveted front row (FROW) seats for the essential fashion edit of designer and high street brands at The Mall. A spokesperson said: “While the debate about catwalk model size continues, you’ll find a refreshing array of models of all sizes and ages on the BFW catwalk, to give a ‘real’ take on how to wear this season’s must have trends. “Trusted fashion advisor Mark Heyes and celebrity hairdresser Andrew Barton present each show, combining style advice, celebrity gossip and valuable fashion knowledge. “Signature hair is the ultimate fashion accessory and Andrew Barton will be talking through the season’s hair trends. A trusted voice in the industry, Andrew has worked for many celebrities including Kylie Minogue and Kate Moss.”
August: French Omelette with ham and cheese Mrs Dawson says, “To welcome our twinning friends, try this simple favourite for all the family.”
Ingredients: • 2 eggs, beaten • 1 tablespoon of water • 2 teaspoons of butter • 1 tablespoon of fresh chives, finely chopped • 1 tablespoon of fresh basil leaves, chopped • ham, diced in cubes • cheese, grated Method: • Combine the eggs and water into a medium mixing bowl. Use a fork to whisk the ingredients until the egg yolks and whites are mixed thoroughly. • Heat a medium size frying pan over high heat for a short while. Add the butter to the pan. It should sizzle and foam if the pan is hot enough. Swirl the pan so the butter evenly coats the base. Do not allow the butter to burn and get brown. • Pour egg mixture into hot pan.
The egg will begin to solidify around the edges of the pan almost straight away. Use a wooden spoon to pull the edges of omelette so the uncooked egg can run to the sides and cook properly. You will know when the omelette is cooked when the egg no longer runs freely. The omelette will be lightly browned underneath. • Spoon the filling (ham and cheese) over one side of the omelette. Use egg slide to fold the other side of the omelette covering filling, and slide onto serving plate. • Serve immediately with some herbs as garnish.
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News
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August, 2012
BBC radio tunes in to Filton BBC Radio Bristol visited Filton earlier this month for a special day of reports, as part of their Right Up Your Street series, in which they visit different parts of the city and surrounding areas. Presenter and producer Martin Evans, along with Dan Welsh, met local residents, councillors, business owners, students and the team at the Filton Church cafe.
They spent time at Gales Farm Meats on Church View and also went to South Gloucestershire and Stroud College. Local councillors Adam Monk and Doug Daniels were interviewed as well as resident Michelle Gregson and Tony Blake and Keith Briffett from Save Conygre House. www.bbc.co.uk/bristol
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August, 2012
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This month our regular contributor, Doug Daniels, gives his personal view on the future for Filton Airfield. An inspector has presided over the inquiry into a Core Strategy for South Gloucestershire – a planning blueprint for the area which will set out how it should develop during the next 15 years. This includes the airfield and it is expected the inspector, Paul Crysell, will deliver preliminary findings in the next few weeks.
“To be or not to be!” That was the question emerging from the Inspector’s examination of BAe’s intention to close Filton Airfield runway at the end of this year. The Inspector’s presence officially concluded last month. Having been present as a participant in the proceedings to evaluate South Gloucestershire Council’s “Core Strategy”, it certainly was a detailed process where every aspect was diligently examined. From my perception I felt the Inspector undertook his duties in a polite, respectful manner. As a Filton Councillor I was passionately determined to state what I thought of the intention to close down an integral part of this town ... its airfield runway. But equally I was prepared to listen to counter arguments centred on a main part of the Core Strategy. That being to provide additional housing and to uphold the Government’s recommendation to upgrade the region’s economy as a whole. I have always held the view that an airport at Filton could have provided an enormous boost to South Gloucestershire’s viable future. But the emergence of the new town – Bradley Stoke – put an end to that possibility. But it does not rule out the prospect of Filton taking on the ancillary role of a fleet maintenance base – refurbishing etc. The closure of the runway would deny the airline industry a valuable asset and impact significantly on the UK aerospace industry. A city of Bristol’s size and reputation deserves a principal airport which Lulsgate does
not entirely provide. That viewpoint is becoming more and more in evidence now with the Government’s intention to “lash out” on providing direct rail link from Bristol to Heathrow at obviously ... considerable cost. It was with this in mind that I approached Boris Johnson – Mayor of London – for his views, knowing that he was campaigning to secure a fourth runway at Heathrow to cater for a predicted increase of traffic there. He replied appreciatively: “I recognise your concerns about the closure of Filton airfield runway and its effect on the local and regional economy! .. The UK needs significant airport capacity.” I alerted the Inspector to legal documents recently obtained regarding the original runway extension into the former Village of Charlton, its compulsory purchase and consequent demolition. I suggested a suspension of the intended closure of the runway at the end of the year until these documents have been considered. The Inspector declined to accept any further details regarding this. The destiny of Filton’s airfield and its ultimate replacement by 2,400 houses (some even believe that it could be exceeded to 5,000”) will soon be known. It could amount to a “Tsunami” of urbanisation foisted upon an already overloaded infrastructure, the consequences of which are unimaginable. Douglas Daniels (Cllr) Filton Town Council Former Senior Designer Rolls-Royce
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Arts, with Deborah Harvey|
Unnatural – Natural History, Royal West of England Academy The summer exhibition at the RWA this year is UnnaturalNatural History, billed as ‘an artistic exploration of an alternative world where the dominant species are not human and natural objects are metamorphosed into unexpected and unnatural forms’. It was the express intention of the curators, Coates & Scarry, to ‘create a stir’ and to prompt discussion about what is and isn’t natural. I’m always a bit wary of exhibitions that set out to manipulate so visceral an emotion, as often what disturbs us at the deepest level is peculiar to us. I remember taking my elder daughter to see an exhibition of art by William Blake in what was then the Tate Gallery in 2000. She was 12 years old and had such bad dreams that night that she woke up screaming and was sick. Clearly the visionary artist and poet had made an unexpectedly profound impression! Upon climbing the stairs to the exhibition, we were confronted by two installations by Kate MccGwire. The sculpture, Wrest, was indeed challenging, consisting of a thick serpentine knot covered in meticulously layered feathers which were at once creepy and familiar, as anyone familiar with the Georgian feather frieze at A La Ronde would attest. Similarly, ‘Stigma II’, consisting of two feathered holes in a sheer dark surface, was the stuff of nightmares. I was also very impressed by Angela Lizon’s ‘Come Fly with Me’, in which a beautifully depicted newborn baby is flown in a sling by a very sinister-looking Marabou stork – the ‘Undertaker Bird’. Never mind the Masai Mara, this bird looked to be heading straight for Baba Yaga’s hut deep in the forest. These, along with Natalie Shau’s memento mori, ‘Vanity’, were the high points. Elsewhere, Patrick Haines’ sculpture ‘Hermetic Bird’ and Rose Sanderson’s ‘Starling’ were covetable but hardly shocking, and the rest of the exhibits were at best
insufficiently innovative to provoke much of a reaction and at worst banal. ‘Deep and meaningless,’ my friend’s fifteen year old daughter pronounced, and I’m afraid I have to agree. Deborah Harvey is a Filton poet and author.
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August, 2012
Filton gardening with the team from Almondsbury Garden Centre Potatoes fresh from the garden for Christmas Day
Had a good crop of potatoes this summer? Why not surprise friends and family this Christmas by having the freshest potatoes, picked that morning and on the table in time for lunch. It doesn’t get better than that! Second cropping potatoes can be one of the most rewarding crops you can grow. When should I plant my autumn potatoes? Timing is really important with your autumn tubers. The best time for planting is in late August, any later and you are unlikely to make that perfect Christmas crop. So buying your tubers in plenty of time is important. Late July and Early August is ideal and will give you time to chit, with planting at the end of the month. If you do get them late, then chitting may not be needed. Which varieties are suitable for a Christmas Harvest? The autumn planting seed potatoes are not specially bred variants, but exactly the same tubers as early in the year. They have been stored in perfect conditions which is why they are slightly more expensive. Most early and second early varieties are suitable potato varieties for late growing. Instore we have Charlotte tubers, which are a waxy salad potato, and they make great new potatoes with Christmas lunch and or a beautiful potato salad for the
Boxing Day buffet. Also instock we have Maris Peer and Duke of York, which make excellent Roast potatoes for your Christmas Dinner. How do I plant out my second crop? In exactly the same way as you have your first crop. Your soil will be nice and warm so they should get off to a good start, but make sure you water them!!!
Try to avoid planting your crop in the same place as your normal crop. If you can’t avoid it then you use a balanced potato fertiliser like Chempack Organic Potato Fertiliser. The soil will be lacking in nutrients so adding nutrients back is a must. Potatoes are a thirsty crop and a potato fertiliser is a must wherever you plant out anyway. Try something like Vitax Q4 and avoid areas recently limed, Potatoes like a slightly acidic soil. If you don’t have much space, you could grow potatoes in bags. We think this is a better way especially if it starts getting too cold. Simply fill the bags with good quality multipurpose compost or something like Westland organic vegetable compost and your potato fertiliser. Make sure you add the recommended application. There are a couple of advantages to bag-growing your tubers. Firstly, your potato skins will look very attractive as they will be unmarked. And, secondly, as mentioned earlier if the weather gets really bad, you
move them into the greenhouse to protect them. What problems might I encounter with my late crop potatoes? Due to the change in seasons the main problems will be frost and blight. Frost will kill the foliage and this will mean the tubers cannot develop. Using a fleece to cover the area will help and if it does get too cold double up on the fleece. Try to make sure that the fleece is not touching the foliage as well. This will help. Blight’s last danger month is September however it can be a problem right through to November. You can use a spray, but your fleece is a great defense for this. Preventing the spores from landing on the leaves will help prevent blight from taking hold. For more information, pop instore and check out our range of Christmas Tubers available now. See our advert on Back Page for more details
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August, 2012
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News Hospital ‘among safest’ for maternity services
• Affiliated to the Gloucestershire FA • Est. since 1974 • FA Charter Standard Club
Ann Remmers, director of midwifery, at North Bristol NHS Trust,
which are in place to monitor safety for women giving birth, to improve the quality of clinical care and ensure staff are prepared to deal with emergencies. The report summary states: “The maternity service at North Bristol NHS Trust is congratulated for achieving Level 3 against the CNST Maternity Clinical Risk Management Standards 2012-13. “It was evident to the assessors throughout the assessment that the maternity service has done a considerable amount of work in relation to reviewing and monitoring
practice to improve systems and processes which ultimately should have a positive outcome on patient care and safety.” Ann Remmers, director of midwifery, at North Bristol NHS Trust, said: “Reaching the top level of these clinical standards demonstrates that we consistently ensure that mothers and babies receive safe and appropriate care for their needs at all times. Our unit is one of only 14 in the country to achieve this. The award is testament to an enormous amount of work by our maternity team and their continued focus on patient safety.”
NBT in potential merger with Bristol hospitals trust North Bristol NHS Trust (NBT), which runs Southmead Hospital, and University Hospitals Bristol NHS Foundation Trust (UH Bristol), which runs the BRI, children’s hospital and other facilities in Bristol, have agreed to establish a joint project to take forward detailed planning for the potential integration of both organisations. This could lead to the the establishment of a new single foundation trust with its own identity and vision. UH Bristol and NBT say they have considered the clinical and financial benefits of bringing together both organisations and believe that integration could achieve the following benefits for patients, staff and the wider Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire areas:
New young football players wanted St Vallier AFC Youth Development Squads
“Mothers and babies receive safe and appropriate care for their needs at all times.”
Maternity services at Southmead Hospital have been awarded the highest level of recognition of clinical safety in the NHS. The maternity unit at Southmead has been awarded the NHS Clinical Negligence Scheme for Trusts (CNST) Level 3. This is the highest and most challenging level of achievement granted by the NHS Litigation Authority (NHSLA). Southmead maternity services is one of only a handful of units in the UK who have achieved this top level. It means the unit has been rigorously assessed against national standards in maternity
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l Improvements in healthcare by simplifying the way patients are treated when using the services of both organisations l Ease of implementing service changes between organisations l Helping Bristol fulfil its academic potential as a major research and teaching centre of excellence l Identifying areas of duplication in the combined workforce that could provide opportunities to reduce waste and improve efficiency savings Detailed work will now take place to assess these benefits and prepare business cases for the two trust boards’ consideration in early 2013. Subject to those business cases, their subsequent approval by the two trust boards and the necessary regulatory and other
approvals, integration of the Trust could happen by the end of 2013. This decision supports those plans already in development between the two organisations through the existing partnership agreement, including the planned centralisation of Head & Neck services and Specialist Paediatrics at UH Bristol and of Pathology Services in the Severn area, Urology and Breast Care Services at NBT. The planned building projects across the city including the new hospital at Southmead, the Frenchay Health and Social Care Centre, the redevelopment of the Bristol Royal Infirmary, the extension to the Bristol Royal Hospital for Children and Cossham Hospital will continue.
We are a Filton based team that provide a platform for local children to play, learn and enjoy their football in a fun and safe environment If you are in Year 1, 2, 3 and love football and want to play in a non-pressured environment, come and join us! Training is held at Elm Park, Filton, BS34 7PS, every Saturday start time 10:00 hrs until 11:30 hrs Only £1 per session - pay as you play For more information visit www.clubwebsite.co.uk/ stvallierafcyouth developmentsquads or contact Ian on 07815 613151 or alternatively email i.jones 50@yahoo.co.uk
ANDREW MURLEY Digital Aerial Installations TV / DVD Repairs 20 Years’ Experience Freeview & Digital Recorders, Sales & Installations. Tel. 01454 774045 / 07890 336310
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42 Filton beat
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Over the summer holiday months we and South Gloucestershire Council often have an increase in the number of calls we get about anti-social behaviour. Of course when we do have a bit of nice weather we spend more time outside so our neighbours’ behaviour has more impact on us and vice versa. Complaints can include noisy neighbours, barking dogs and groups of children in the street and we understand these issues can affect on your quality of life. Generally our young people cause very few problems and any issues we do have are down to a small minority. More often we are helping to resolve disputes where one or more households are complaining about other residents’ activities. We all have an obligation to
with Sgt Steve Ives make our behaviour doesn’t cause a nuisance to the community in general or our neighbours in particular. If you suffer from anti-social behaviour, you don’t have to put up with it. My advice to you is firstly to let the people concerned know, politely, the impact their behaviour has on you, early on. This can often solve the problem as they may not have realised they were disturbing you. If you don’t feel confident to do this or the problem continues you can then call either the South Gloucestershire
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Council Anti-Social Behaviour Team on 01454 868582 or the police on 101. We have many options available to us and together we can assist the victims and change the ways of those perpetrating anti-social behaviour. Remember: if it’s an emergency, when someone could get hurt or crime is happening then and there, call 999.
August, 2012
How to contact the Filton team: • Call Filton police station on 101 • E-mail: ssn.filton@ avonandsomerset.police.uk • Make an appointment to meet an officer by phone or e-mail • Go to www. avonandsomerset.police.uk – you can report crime, find local policing information and more • Call into Filton police station, Gloucester Road North. It’s open 8.30am to 4.30pm Monday, Tuesday and Thursday (closed 11.45am-midday), and midday to 8pm Wednesday and Friday (closed 4.15-5pm). In an emergency (when someone is at risk of getting hurt or a crime is happening there and then) call 999. Otherwise call 101 24/7 to report an incident or contact an officer.
State-of-the-art sports facilities for hire Sports Hall Sprung floor dance studio Floodlit multi use games area for Netball, Tennis and Basketball Floodlit all weather pitch for Hockey or Football (sand based) For more details contact us by phone or email on Tel: 0117 3075660 | lettings@abbeywoodschool.com www.abbeywoodschool.com/lettings
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August, 2012
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News The team at local estate agency Connells in Filton will be running this year’s Bristol Half Marathon in memory of a Connells customer who was recently killed in a motorcycle accident. Money raised by Connells will be donated to charity Freewheelers, which provides an out-of-hours motorcycle courier service to hospitals in the South West of England. Some of the funds will also go to South Gloucestershire Council’s Road Safety Team which runs motorcycle training days in the area. The Connells running team includes branch manager Alexandra Tan, senior negotiator James Crumpton, mortgage services consultant Wayne Marlton, administrator KerrieAnn Sanders and area director Ranjit Chohan. “When the team heard the news that one of our customers had been tragically killed in a motorbike accident, we decided to try and raise as much money as possible to promote motorcycle safety and bike awareness in the local area,” said Ms Tan. “Our sympathies go to his partner, who was also injured in the accident, and family at this difficult time. “The team at Connells is committed to raising maximum funds from our half marathon which we hope will go some way to preventing similar incidents in the future. We are appealing to as many people as possible to get in touch and pledge a donation.” Alan Hale, Senior Road Safety Officer for South Gloucestershire Council, added: “As a council we are working hard to reduce deaths and serious injuries from all collisions and in particular motorcycle collisions where
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Estate agent staff to run in memory of customer
the users are a very vulnerable group. “It is reassuring that Connells at Filton are eager to play a part in our efforts by raising funds to enable us to provide additional training on our advanced motorcycling taster days for the riders of large capacity motorcycles. “I am pleased to be working together with them.” To help Connells raise money to raise awareness of motorcycle safety in the local area, please contact Ms Tan on 0117 931 4455 or email: filton@connells.co.uk. Alternatively, please visit the teams Just Giving page to pledge a donation: www.justgiving. com/connellsfiltonfundraising. The half marathon will be held on Sunday, September 30, 2012.
Windows and doors needing some attention? • Misted glass units need replacing? • Locks need replacing? • Handles need replacing? • Doors/window adjustments required? • New door inserts needed? • Doors not closing properly? • Conservatory leaks? • Conservatory roof needing upgrade to make more energy efficient?
South Glos population rises by seven per cent More than 17,000 extra people now live in South Gloucestershire, compared with 10 years ago, according to the latest census figures. The seven per cent increase takes the district’s population to 262,800, with the greatest proportion being 45 to 49 years olds (8.1 per cent). Figures for Filton and other areas will be released in the Autumn.
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The census was carried out by the Office for National Statistics (ONS) on 27 March 2011. By knowing how many people live within our borders, councils can plan properly for the future, helping to ensure that the local services can be provided where they are needed. Ninety-six per cent of the district’s residents responded to the census, above the national average of 94 per cent.
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DGR Windows For a free quotation, call Mike on 07530 159050
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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. £3.50 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
Tuesdays
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. 9.30am - 1.30pm NOTE TIME CHANGE Pre-School story and Rhyme time Tuesdays 9.30am, Filton Library, Shields Centre, Spanish group. Sing Spanish songs with your child Tuesdays 4pm – 4.30pm , Filton Library. Aqua fit Tuesdays, 9.45 – 10.30am & 8.30 - 9.15pm, cost £4 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. Filton Camera Club, 7.30 p.m, on alternate Wednesdays (except June, July and August) at Filton Community Centre, Elm Park. Contact Brian Frost on 0117 9651242, Brnf3335@aol.com,
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 > and Stroud College, Filton Avenue, 7.15 pm. Potential new members very welcome. Call 0117 9424378.”
Filton WI, monthly meetings, 1st Thursday of every month, Newleaze House, Filton, call 0117 330 6071 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. £3.50 for 1 adults and up to two children, Filton Sports and Leisure Centre, term time only Tiddlers and toddlers playgroup, St Peter’s Church Hall, 10amnoon, term time only Filton Ladies, St Andrew’s Church, 2pm-4pm, new members welcome, call 0117 969 1825 Keep Fit Association classes, all welcome, Filton Community Centre, 8-9pm Call 0117 969 3326 Silver surfers drop-in. Free for over 55s, learn more about computers. Call 0117 969 1938 or just show up. St Andrews Youth Centre
Fridays
Dinky Dolphins, baby and pre-school swimming session, games music and play, 10am11am. These sessions are first come, f irst served. £3.50 for 1 adults and up to two children, Filton Sports and Leisure Centre, term time only, term time only Bingo, Filton Community Centre, 7.30pm
Saturdays
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. A monthly Teen Reading group for those in years 7 – 9. Meets on a Saturday morning, Filton Library, Shields Centre. Monthly Chatterbooks reading group for children in years 5 – 6. Meets on a Saturday afternoon, Filton Library, Shields Centre, Filton, January 28 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 and to book your place.
St Andrews Methodist Youth Centre
NOTE UPDATED SCHEDULE For young people: Mondays 6-9pm Towards Independence Awards for 16-25 year olds with mild learning difficulties and autistic spectrum disorder. A range of accreditted awards to improve their independence skills and also make new friends! Various modules available as 6-12 week courses, £10 for one course or £15 for two. Contact the office for information! Tuesdays 7-9pm Youth club for Secondary School Year 7 and 8s (11-13yrs) £1 entry - a range of fun activities on offer Wednesdays 5.45-6.30pm (term-time) at the Methodist Church Hall (next door to youth club) Street dance sessions! £2 per session for 11-18year olds! Bring a drink as you’ll get hot and sweaty!! Wednesdays 7-9.30pm Youth club for Secondary School Year 9-13 (13-19yrs) £1 entry - a range of fun activities on offer! Thursdays 7-9.30pm Youth club for Secondary School Years 10+ (14yrs - up to 25yrs for those with learning difficulties). £1 entry - a range of activities on offer! NEW!! Fridays 6.30-8.30pm Girls’ Night! For Secondary
School Years 7-13 (11-19yrs) £1 entry - a range of fun and interesting activities on offer just for young women! FOOTBALL PROJECT ALSO COMING SOON ON FRIDAY NIGHTS! The youth club programme has a range of activities including sports, arts/ crafts, roller skating, quizzes, computers, games, Wii, karaoke, and cooking. We’re also a C-card access point for condoms! Also tuck shop and pool tables available at subsidised rates! We also do lots of trips and weekends away! Contact the office for holiday times as we usually change the programme during holidays to do more trips! Contact us at 0117 9691938 or standrewsmyc@hotmail.co.uk For the wider community: Wednesdays 2-5pm Work Club: 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! Thursdays 10am-noon : Silver Surfers (note we’ve changed from Fridays!) 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! Free to come along anytime, just 50p for a tea/coffee (and sometimes a biscuit!) This group does not run during August
Pyramid Youth Club
Mondays: 6.30-8pm: Inters 1012 yrs. activities include football, basketball and other sports, pool, table tennis, computers, cookery and craft, tuck shop 8pm-10pm: Seniors 13+, activities include circuit training, football, basketball and other sports, pool, table tennis, computers, cookery and craft, tuck shop, Subs £1 (50p members) Tuesdays: 6.30-7.30: Junior Judo 5-12 yrs;
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August, 2012
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7.30-9pm: Senior Judo 13+, £2.50 children/students, £3 adults Wednesday: Occasional events in or out of Club. Thursdays: 6.30-7.45: Juniors 5-9 yrs, activities include games, computers, cookery, tuck shop. 8pm-10pm: Seniors 13+, activities include DJing, football, basketball and other sports, pool, table tennis, computers, cookery and craft, tuck shop, Subs £1 (50p members) Friday: 7.30-10pm: Seniors 13+,
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activities include music (drums, guitar, keyboard), football, basketball and other sports, pool, table tennis, computers, cookery and craft, tuck shop. Subs £1 (50p members). Including DJing music mixing, vocal skills Based at 470 Filton Avenue, contact Margaret Morris 0117 9691315
Filton Community Centre 983 6500
Mondays: Tea dance, 1.45-3.45, call 302 6981. Zumba fitness
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class, 6.30-7.30 Tuesdays: Keep fit, 2-4pm, 969 3326; Flower arranging, 2-4pm, 01454 412 087; Dog training, 7-9pm, 01454 616630; Pilates, 7-9pm, 502 2411; AA, 7.30-9.30; Cacti club (3rd Tues), call 950 3604 Wednesdays: Pilates, 10-12; Dawn James Art, 962 2982; Camera Club, 7.30-9.30, alternate weeks, call 965 1242 for details; Strictly Ballroom, 907 6960; Historical Club (4th Wed), 7.30-9.30, 969 2025
What’s coming up in Filton Until 16th Sept
Filton Library, Summer Reading Challenge continues
Thurs, 6th Sept
Priority neighbourhood, Abbeywood School,10:30am
Thurs, 6th Sept
Safer and Stronger, 7pm, BAWA.
Sat, September 8
Charborough Road Primary, car boot sale, 11am to 2pm
Sat, 8th September
Sat, 29th Sept
Thurs, 13th Sept
Sat, 22 Sept
Filton Library, Musical performance by Tim Moller, 10am – 12pm
Filton Library, Community Learning Enrolment Session, 10am -12pm
Sat, 15th Sept
Filton Library, Family History Coffee Morning. Find out more about researching your family tree, 10am – 12pm
Filton Library, Mummy Mayhem: Egyptian crafts and stories, 2.30pm – 3.30pm
Car Boot Sale, Abbeywood Community School, New Road, Stoke Gifford BS3 48S, 9.30 am 12.30 pm, Cars £6, vans £8. Hot dogs, bacon butties and burgers available as well as hot and cold drinks so come along for a browse and grab some bargains. For further information please email facs@abbeywoodschool. com or call 07866 392912
Fri, 28 Sept
Social evening including a Race Night with horse, dog and pig racing. Abbeywood Community School, New Road, Stoke Gifford, Bristol BS34 8SF
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Thursdays: Short mat bowls, 2-4pm, 969 2025; Line dancing, 7.30-9.30, 07792 456988; Flower arranging, 7.30-9.30, 01454 412087; AA, 07831 338085; Keep fit, 8-9pm, 969 3326 Fridays: Bingo, 7.30-9.30, 9690311; Karate, 6-8pm, 07982 720158 Saturdays: Kung Fu, 07759 583688; Sundays: Karate, 10.30-noon, 07982 720 158; New Pastures Ministry, 07786 271 33
Doors open at 7.00 pm, first race at 7.30 pm. Licensed bar available so come along and have a fun evening! All are welcome but only over 18s will be able to place a bet (50p). For further information please email facs@abbeywoodschool.com or call 07866 392912
Sun, 14th Oct Indoor Quality As New Sale, Abbeywood Community School, New Road, Stoke Gifford, BS34 8SF, 10.30 am - 12.30 pm
Weekdays Coffee shop, 9am – 12:30pm, St Peter’s Church, Filton
Town council See Page 25
Courses to support Filton people looking for work A number of courses are available to Filton people through the job club, run by N-Gaged training, in conjunction with Unite the Union at St Andrew’s Methodist Youth Centre, Elm Park, BS34 7PS. Also running at the Youth centre, are courses provided by N-Gaged Training, that are FREE to people on benefits such as JSA, Income Support, Housing benefit, and also to young people aged 16-19yrs who are not in education, employment or training. At this venue we can offer nationally recognised courses in IT, Customer Service, and Food Hygiene, and we can also arrange access to other training such as
Forklift licences, CSCS cards, Hospitality, Hotel & Catering, and Warehousing. Courses at St Andrew’s are run Monday-Wednesday each week. The IT Course is Mon & Tues 9:30-15:00, Weds 09:30-15:00 (1-6 weeks dependent upon experience), and the Customer Services is Mon & Weds 09:3015:00 (3 sessions total). Food Hygiene dates are arranged as required, but take one whole day. The contact number for the N-Gaged courses is 0800 0433623, or people can pop along to see Lisa Smith MondayWednesday.
To advertise, contact Richard on 0777 555 0607, Emma on 0771 577 0448 or Wendy on 0771 577 0242. Email: adverts@filtonvoice.co.uk
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August, 2012
Advertising feature
We’ll give you peace of mind when it comes to making a Will
Allguard Legal Services Ltd is a major national Will Provider Experts in ALL Types of Wills, Trusts, and, as part of The Skipton Building Society group of Probate, Estate Planning and Lasting companies. we are part of the Powers of Attorney. We have a broad largest and longest established range of Wills, Trusts and other legal Will writing group in the UK. We are also members of services for you to choose from, so The Society of Will Writers and that you can have the peace of mind The Professional Association of Legal Services. We have given peace of mind to many thousands ofYOU families want fees that you CAN afford over the years and we can do the same for you and your family too. Allguard Legal Services Ltd, Your local representative, John Warner, highlights the (One of the Skipton Building Society group of companies) following benefits of choosing Allguard: • Flexible appointments, not 9 to 5 For a brochure or to arrange a home visit at your convenience, please • A chance to meet the client at the placecontact that suits them eg John Warner your local representative based in Horfield hospital, care home . • Cost of Wills start from £60. • We have in house solicitor & Trust Advisors. • We are members ot The Society of Will Writers andEmail: members of john.warner@allguardwills.co.uk Professional Assocciation of Legal Services. For more information, call John on 0845 056 8778. See our advert on Page 8
Tel: 0845-0568778
To advertise, contact Richard on 0777 555 0607, Emma on 0771 577 0448 or Wendy on 0771 577 0242. Email: adverts@filtonvoice.co.uk
Trade services CARPENTRY
To advertise in our trade services section from as little as £15 per month contact Richard on 07775 550607 or Emma on 0117 9082121. PLUMBER
Reliable Plumber
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Long-established, local company undertaking all aspects of carpentry, joinery & building work
Mobile: 0797 747 1341 Tel: 0117 904 7450 jpccarpentryjoinery.co.uk MEDIA SERVICES
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FIRST FOR CELEBRITY NEWS ISSUE 1
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SPOTTED PIGGING OUT IN GOURMET BURGER
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BRITISH GYMNASTICS PRE-SCHOOL GYM AND CHEERLEADING Gymnastics for toddlers to 5 year olds Cheerleading for 3½ to 5 year olds CLASSES AT FILTON COMMUNITY CENTRE, ELM PARK, FILTON Book a FREE TRIAL call 0117 9109820 or 0751 3909786 Email gymtastic.ltd@btinternet.com website: www.gymtastic.co.uk
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TED’S TIPS
FOR POTATOES FRESH FROM THE GARDEN THIS CHRISTMAS When should I plant my autumn potatoes? Timing is really important with your autumn tubers. The best time for planting is in late August, so buying your tubers in plenty of time is important. Late July and early August is ideal.
Which varieties are suitable for a Christmas Harvest? The autumn planting seed potatoes are exactly the same tubers as early in the year, having been stored in perfect conditions. In-store we have Charlotte tubers, which make great new potatoes for a boxing day buffet potato salad.
What problems might I encounter with my late crop potatoes? The main problems are frost and blight. Using a fleece to cover the area will help prevent against the frost and also be a good defense against the blight. If it gets really cold, double up on the fleece but try to make sure that the fleece is not touching the foliage.
Also in-stock we have Maris Peer and Duke of York, which make excellent Roast potatoes for your Christmas dinner.
How do I plant out my second crop? In exactly the same way as you plant your first crop, but make sure you water them. Try and avoid planting your crop in the same place as your normal crop. Potatoes are a thirsty crop and a potato fertiliser is a must wherever you plant out.
FOR MORE INFORMATION, POP IN-STORE AND CHECK OUT OUR RANGE OF CHRISTMAS TUBERS AVAILABLE NOW FOR ONLY ÂŁ1.99 A KILO, LOOSE OR PACKED. Almondsbury Garden Centre Over Lane, Almondsbury Bristol BS32 4BP
01454 457 300 | www.parkgardencentres.co.uk