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filtonvoice November, 2012 Issue 14
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TAKI W BOO NG KING S
Santa 2012
Steam Specials
Tel: 932 5538 Win0117 a family ticket! P25
*Terms and conditions apply. www.avonvalleyrailway.org
Bitton Railway Station, Bath Road, Bitton, Bristol BS30 6HD
LETTERS P8-9 | SCHOOLS P15 | FILTON BEAT P26 | WHAT’S ON P28-29 | ARTS P30 info@avonvalleyrailway.org
Magic! Kids’ joy as they get their play park
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JLS thrill crowds at switch-on
Page 5
Filton turns out to remember the fallen in war Page 3 PLUS
Find out who won our BIG picture prize Page 10
NOW find Filtonvoice on Facebook
Glynis’s 30 years at the library
Boules to return to Filton
Ruling a www.facebook.com/filtonvoice ‘demolition and on of democracy’ Twitter
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www.filtonvoice.co.uk Contacts
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
ERNEST S TILL (South West) & CO LTD ELECTRICAL CONTRACTORS Shower Installations - Rewires - Sockets - General Maintenance - Intruder & Fire Alarms - Lighting Design & Installation Emergency & Security Lighting Specialists Full Testing & Inspecting to Certification (Landlord’s Certificate) Portable Appliance Testing Local Authority Approved Contractors 2 GLOUCESTER ROAD NORTH, FILTON, BRISTOL BS7 0SF TELEPHONE: 0117 914 5400 FAX: 0117 914 5404 Email: info@estillsouthwest.co.uk Website: www.estillsouthwest.co.uk
Domestic |
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Commercial
November, 2012
Richard Coulter Editor and publisher
0777 555 0607 | richard@filtonvoice.co.uk
Emma Cooper Advertising sales
0771 577 0448 | emma@filtonvoice.co.uk
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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My computer seemed to be on its last legs but I went to Graham at Goto IT on Filton Avenue and now it’s as good as new - better in fact! BC, Filton Park 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
November, 2012
News
E: richard@filtonvoice.co.uk
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Daytime theft of jewels from house ... burglaries on rise
Filton remembers
Filton remembered its war dead at ceremonies across the town on Remembrance Sunday. A large gathering assembled at Filton Church and wreaths were laid, including the traditional offering from the town council, represented by chairman Councillor Adam Monk. Elsewhere, two minutes’ silence was observed at 11am and local schools have also been thinking about this very poignant time of year. The local poppy appeal launch took place at Parkway Station, with station manager Linda Swainger, a great friend of the Royal British Legion, cutting the tape.
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Police are appealing for witnesses and information after thieves broke into a house on a main road in Filton in broad daylight. The front door of the house on Gloucester Road North was forced and a burglar made off with jewellery and watches after an untidy search. It happened between 2.15 and 5pm on Weds, October 17. Anyone who noticed anything suspicious in that afternoon is asked to get in touch through www.avonandsomerset.police. uk/contact or by calling 101. l Burglaries are on the rise in Filton, according to a verbal report given by a PCSO to the October town council meeting. Three burglaries were recorded in the space of a week in Gloucester Road North. In two of the incidents, witnesses reported seeing offenders prowling in back gardens.
The branch members turned out in force to support Linda’s Launch, including collectors, branch members, poppy organisers John Moloney and Terry Webber, branch officials, and three members of the local area office of Barclays Bank who, with other colleagues, spent a day blitzing Parkway with poppy collections. Local MP and branch member Jack Lopresti was present and he also put in a shift last Friday, catching early commuters at the station. The legion is hoping for another record breaking appeal after raising nearly £40,000 last year.
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News
Buy materials ... and raise vital cash
The Filton-based Great Western Air Ambulance and Miller Construction, which is carrying out the refurbishment of Pegasus House in Filton, are giving the public the chance to purchase salvaged building material such as timber and bricks at low cost. Available at Pegasus House Filton on Gloucester Road North, this scheme will benefit the community and support the GWAAC as all proceeds will be donated to the charity. GWAAC chief executive John Christensen said: “Working in unison with both the general public and members of the Filton business community is vitally important.” Miller site manager at Pegasus House John Evans said: “Miller Construction recognises the life saving services of the Great Western Air ambulance and have decided to raise cash by donations from the public by selling waste materials which would otherwise go to landfill.”
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Glynis’s 30 years
On the 18th October Glynis Hayward celebrated 30 years of working in the Library Service by holding a coffee morning. Lots of customers, friends and colleagues joined in the celebration by eating home made cup cakes and reminiscing. Glynis started at Horfield Library in October 1982. She worked there for 2 years before coming to Filton Library in 1984. She has seen many changes over the years.
November, 2012
Sporting stars gather in Filton for awards
Olympians, Parlympians, British Champions, clubs, coaches and schools gathered in Filton this month for South Gloucestershire Council’s sports awards. The annual event recognises sporting achievement and the contribution sports clubs make to communities in the district. A council spokesperson said: “The golden summer of sporting achievement may have come to an end but the community spirit shown during the torch relay and the London 2012 Games will leave a lasting legacy. “The winners have shown a strong commitment to ensuring sporting activities are championed at grass roots level.” Cllr Claire Young, Chair of the Communities Committee, said: “There were many worthy recipients.” Among the winners was Paralympic Assistant Coach Jen Browning, 30, from Backwell representing Filton-based South West Scorpions Wheelchair Basketball team.
She said: ‘The biggest changes I’ve seen have been computerisation, the relocation of the library to the Shield Retail Park and most recently the refurbishment of the current library. “I really enjoy working in libraries and my favourite part of the job is meeting the customers and looking through the lovely books. “I look forward to many more years of service.’ 52
HENBURY GOLF CLUB Why join Henbury Golf Club?
Because it’s a Members Club run for members by members, and it’s more fun to play better golf on a better golf course.
2013 Membership Offers Sunday 25th November all day from 10.00am
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• A warm welcome from friendly members & staff • Full fixture list aimed at all standards • Mid-week competitions • Ladies, Juniors and Seniors sections • Reduced subscriptions for 18-29 year olds • A newly decorated clubhouse available to hire for functions • Sky TV and Snooker Room • State of the Art Conference Facilities • Choice of Buggies
To advertise, contact Richard on 0777 555 0607, Emma on 0771 577 0448 or Wendy on 0771 577 0242. Email: adverts@filtonvoice.co.uk
November, 2012
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Magic! New play area for flats Children at Church View flats in Filton had an extra treat for Halloween this year – the long awaited opening of their new play area. Magic was in the air as the children finally got the chance to play on the new equipment, aided by a magician who was showing off a variety of tricks. And there were prizes on offer to the best spookily-dressed children who came to the party. Donna Burgess, chairwoman of the Viewpoint Action Group, which led on the opening of the new play area, said: “It’s great to finally see the result of all the hard work. It’s taken a long time to get here but it’s been worth it. It looks amazing. “It’ll make a huge difference to the community now the kids have a safe and secure place to play.” The play area had been expected to open during the summer, but the wet weather meant things had to be put on hold, while the contractors waited for a dry spell to finish the work. After finishing it off, the play area was signed off and the opening date was set for the October half term. Residents from the flats secured funding from the Big Lottery Fund’s Community Spaces programme earlier in the year. Together with £35,000 from Merlin Housing Society it meant that residents, and the children in particular, could finally start planning their new play area.
Youngsters had three sessions testing out equipment to help them decide what they’d like in their new play area. This helped to influence the final design, which includes a log pile climbing frame, slides, a climbing tepee and picnic areas.
Johann’s
Reiki, Holistic & Beauty therapies Rejuvenateyourspirit.com T: 07971 682580 Filton based & mobile Got a story/something you would like everyone in Filton to know about? Call Richard on 0777 555 0607 or email richard@filtonvoice.co.uk
RETIREMENT APARTMENTS FOR SALE
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01179 698442 Show Complex open daily, 10am to 5pm
Visit our website: churchillretirement.co.uk
November, 2012
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News £50 boules deal as pricing rules revised by Stephen Hortham Filton Town Council has decided to change its pricing policy for the boules court in Elm Park, in response to a lack of income since charges were first introduced earlier this year. Filton Péntanque Club, which used to have free use of the facility, has not played any matches in Elm Park since the charges were introduced. Instead, it has played at grounds used by other local clubs – which are generally provided free of charge within the grounds of public houses. Charges for the boules court were introduced in March after residents and councillors had questioned whether it was fair for it to be used free of charge when other teams, e.g. football, had to pay to use council-provided facilities. With no income being generated from the court, the Town Council asked leisure centre manager Lisa Timbrell to reconsider the pricing policy and her latest suggestions were discussed at the October meeting of Full Council. Under Ms Timbrell’s new proposal, the current hourly charges would be abandoned and replaced by a yearly fee of £50 payable by the boules club, to cover the cost of lighting during games. As part of the deal, the club would get the neglected ground back into a playable state, take over responsibility for maintaining it, and allow nonmembers to use it at no cost.
During discussion, Cllr Brian Mead said it should be down to Ms Timbrell to decide the charges and it shouldn’t need the involvement of councillors. Cllr Melanie Drewitt was against changing the pricing structure, saying that the facility had cost the council money to build and that charges needed to be in line with those asked for other facilities. Her claim was countered by Cllr Andrew Chubb who replied that the boules court had in fact been built with Section 106 funds from local developers and had not cost the Town Council anything at all. Cllr Chubb was challenged by a member of the public, who asked if he had an interest in the matter through being a member of the boules club. Admitting his membership, Cllr Chubb said it was not pecuniary (as expressed in the Councillors’ Code of Conduct) because if the club were to resume playing in Filton, “it would cost me money, rather than saving it”. A counter proposal by Cllr
Drewitt that the council should look at other pricing models and identify exactly what was meant by “maintaining the court” was defeated by 3 votes to 5. The original motion, i.e. for the club to pay a £50 yearly fee and take over maintenance of the court, was then passed by 5 votes to 3. Speaking after the meeting, South Glos councillor and boules player Roger Hutchinson said: “I was very pleased that the Town Council recognised that the boule piste should be used and have no doubt that the club will want to accept the offer made which is a fair one. “I can confirm that the Ratepayers Arms team, recently called Les Exiles in the South Gloucestershire League, will return to playing at Elm Park, that is where we want to play because we are proud to be representatives of Filton when playing locally and regionally. We hope that once the piste is fit for play that people will join the club and take part in some of the events we will be planning.”
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Filton people to have say on budget
South Gloucestershire residents are being invited to have their say on the council’s budget and council tax for 2013/14. Roadshows will be held at venues throughout the district between now and the close of the consultation on 21 December ... but Filton residents will need to travel to take part. The council is responsible for a range of services including refuse collection, street cleaning, planning, education, social care and road maintenance, and each year council tax payers are invited to comment on the council’s priorities for the coming year. Patchway Hub: Friday 16 November 10am-1pm Emersons Green Sainsburys: Monday 19 November 3-7pm Staple Hill Library on Thursday 29 November 10am–1pm Kingswood Shopping Centre: Friday 30 November 10am – 2pm Thornbury Shopping Centre: Thursday 6 December 10am-2pm As well as roadshows, people can share their views by completing an online survey at www.southglos.gov.uk/budget or by telephoning 01454 868 009.
Filton lockdown
Avon and Somerset Police recently staged a ‘lockdown’ operation in Filton, in which checkpoints were set up on all roads in and out of the town. Vehicles were checked for tax and insurance and searches were made for stolen scrap metal. The initiative was part of the force’s ongoing Operation Relentless.
Got a story/something you would like everyone in Filton to know about? Call Richard on 0777 555 0607 or email richard@filtonvoice.co.uk
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Letters and opinions 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 stories at www.filtonvoice.co.uk. Please keep letters short. The editor reserves the right to edit your letter.
Charborough anniversary
As a former Charborough Road school pupil from the 1950s, I was delighted to work with the current school to plan the 85th anniversary Open Day in September. It turned out to be an enjoyable event, thanks to the many former pupils and Filton residents who attended; from the comments subsequently received I know that the day was a memorable occasion for some. Tracing as many of the pre-war pupils as could be found in the time available resulted in a good turnout for this group and there were some great reunions taking place for people who had not seen their classmates for many decades. I would like to thank Richard Coulter for the excellent article and feature page on these early pupils that was included in the October FiltonVoice. I have since had the opportunity to meet again the former teacher Mr Ronald
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£10 prize Send your letters to the addresses (email or normal mail) opposite and the best one will receive £10 each month. Editor’s decision is final. Letters must not be anonymous and an address supplied (address will not be published if requested) Laidler, just after his 94th birthday, and I told him he would be 99 years old if we had a 90th anniversary and he laughed. Still enjoying good health, he said he was amazed at the many items of memorabilia from his teaching days brought by former pupils to show him at the event. Graham Harris
State of roads
Over the last 1.5 years I have highlighted to South Glos Council and Filton Town Council at least three times the poor condition of the roads within the Filton area, and specifically the surface condition and traffic calming of the stretch of Filton Ave between the A38 “Filton College” and A4174 “Link Road”. Previous early communications with SG had highlighted that this area was destined for re surfacing “sometime within the next 12 months”, however this has since been contradicted by my latest communication with SG stating
November, 2012
“no funding is available”. Having suffered two severe winters, with another winter ahead of us, there is also the potential for an increase of traffic using this stretch, due to the colder weather and the knock on effect of traffic avoiding the proposed A38 layout changes adjacent to Filton Church/ New Airbus entrance. How much more does this road need to degenerate before any action is taken? I have asked Filton Town Council to provide support to the issue and got nothing, not even an acknowledgement of my communications. This stretch of road is intensively used, providing a link between the two main roads. The traffic calming measures in place are not sufficient to continue taking the daily pounding, especially from the emergency vehicles using this as a quick way through to the A4174 from the Blood Centre. Unfortunately for those that live along this stretch and use it as a means of access to their property we have to endure this ridge laden pot hole ridden stretch of road daily at the risk of increased wear to our cars… yesterday I had to have suspension components replaced due to “excessive wear”. As an area for promoting cycling (noting the nice new signs going up over the last week…more £££) pot holes full of water present a hidden hazard to cyclists and trip hazards to pedestrians…ANY council take note if you care. So it appears we just have to make do…and not mend. The councils will keep patching the road and year on year and require us to dodge the frost blown patch repairs. The humps,
To advertise, contact Richard on 0777 555 0607, Emma on 0771 577 0448 or Wendy on 0771 577 0242. Email: adverts@filtonvoice.co.uk
November, 2012
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Letters and opinions lumps, bumps, exposed fixing studs, ridges and holes remain, looking tired and worn and dangerous. I note with interest that the Highwood Road Project continues as an “experiment” (money being used effectively I see) and that a Zebra Crossing has recently been replaced by a Pelican crossing on the approach to the Mall….and the paths leading to it have all been resurfaced. Priorities in all the right places. Luke Vibert EDITOR’S NOTE: Luke’s letter is our letter of the month. See panel left to find out how you can win £10
Poor treatment
I am amazed by the treatment we are given as residents of this Town. We have closures of the Shield Avenue clinic and the Filton Police Station. We have Filton Leisure Centre that is such a state that it has had closures of its swimming pool
on 35 occasions since January. We have had businesses such as TJ Hughes and Woolworths closing down and the sites still remain vacant. I really think we are being treated as second class town and our councillors do not have the heart to stand up to it. If something was passed during a previous government, that does not mean it has to implemented by the current government. Otherwise what is the point of voting a government out if we have to live with the bad decisions that they make even when they are not in power. There have been recent reports that the street lights in Filton are going to be shut during night. Cllr Hutchinson had backed the proposal and not supported the views of the town council that they believed lights should stay on. It is really a shame to be living in Filton and electing representatives who are not working for the town at all. Nirav Mithan
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Our back yards
There is a back lane dividing Mackie Road and Mackie Grove in Filton which has become almost impassable on foot owing to residents not caring about the land beyond their back gardens such that brambles, bushes and long grass even make the many garages impossible to enter. Consequently fly tipping occurs and certain people hide rubbish in the tall grass “ out of sight, out of mind “ . I live by a small lane which is frequently used and endeavour to keep it clear. Many residents have commented on this and as a result the avoidance of dropping rubbish such as cans and bottles along with the odd dog’s excrement is overcome. One person using the lane even commented saying: “Oh I see the council take measures on this lane”, only to be surprised by the fact it is not owned by the council but I show pride in keeping it clear. If more residents showed
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the same pride beyond their respective back gardens maybe they would not choose to double park in the Grove and be able to utilise their garages at the rear. It doesn’t take much effort to clean this lane and the rewards would soon become evident as many residents would also benefit from using this lane as short cut just as they do on the small narrow lane. Malcolm Brown
Caravans remain
I visited the HSBC Bank at Northville on Monday 22nd of October only to notice that there were four caravans now camped on the car park, I thought in your recent article that they were being moved on or prevented from being there. Instead they are increasing in numbers. I find it disconcerting when I leave my car parked there particularly as the spaces are being taken up by these caravans even more so. Dawn Higgins Brown
Got a story/something you would like everyone in Filton to know about? Call Richard on 0777 555 0607 or email richard@filtonvoice.co.uk
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November, 2012
The BIG picture ... you can win £10 The first winner of our BIG picture competition is Claire Troote from Northville who took this scary picture of her children Rhys and Jack’s Hallowe’en pumpkins. Congratulations to Claire, who wins £10.
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Fancy yourself as a bit of a photographer? Now’s your chance to win £10 as part of our new feature, The Big Picture. We’re looking for photos which capture life in Filton and we’ll print the best ones each month. To take part, send your picture by email to richard@filtonvoice. co.uk by the last day of the month. The editor’s decision is final.
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To advertise, contact Richard on 0777 555 0607, Emma on 0771 577 0448 or Wendy on 0771 577 0242. Email: adverts@filtonvoice.co.uk
November, 2012
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Filton business of the month
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This month we meet Stuart Gale of Gales Farm Meets in Church View
Name, age and how long have you been working in the butcher’s trade? Stuart Gale, 46, I’ve been working for 27 years in the Filton shop but I was brought up in farming and butchery family, 5th generation. What did you do before? After school I attended Brunel Technical College for two years studying mechanical and production engineering. I worked for Bristol Ericson in Warmley and Aquarius International Pump Services as a pump engineer. Why did you decide to start running your own business? My previous employment had a lot of competition and jobs were getting harder to come by. The family farm was also having hard times so together with my father Bernard and brother Andy, we decided to run a butcher’s shop alongside the farm. What’s the best bit about the job? Every day is different. We have a variety of jobs in the shop so no time to get bored. I like to be busy and now we have another shop in Westbury Park as well. What’s been the biggest headache? Time. There are never enough hours in the day. Tell us what you offer to set yourself apart from others. Our uniques products. All meat is from our family farm or local farms. We give friendly service and help. We have home-made
sausages, home-made cooked meats, pies and pastries and we buy pheasant and game from local shoots, keeping it local. What are your plans for the future of the business? We have extended our businesses through use of local farmers’ market, and now have a successful shop in North View, Westbury Park, Bristol. This is run by my brother, Andy. Also, we are looking to more trade in Filton with the new
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offices and Filton House taking shape. What do you think about the people of Filton? We have been in Filton for a long time, including my grandfather’s shop at the end of Filton Avenue so we know and have known many people in the area. I find people here down to earth, pleasant and good fun. They are good, loyal customers and we appreciate them very much.
Anything else to add? With Christmas approaching fast, we have a fantastic range of poultry and products o sale, so why not order your local Christmas delights today. Merry Christmas to you all. Details Gales Farm Meats, Church View, Filton (beside the Post Office, opposite Filton Church) Call us on 0117 969 1232 W | www.galesfarmmeats.co.uk Advert: Page 25
St. Gregory’s Church Christmas Fayre Filton Road Horfield BS7 0PD A38, opposite Orchard School Saturday Nov 24th, 10-30am-3-30pm Craft & gift stalls ... Father Christmas Refreshments ... Grand raffle ... Free entry All proceeds to Church funds
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November, 2012
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Thought for the month with Rev’d. Canon Brian Arman of St Peter’s, Filton
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and I visited the Western front Museum in the ‘Cloth Hall’ at Ypres (known to the British soldiers of 1914-18 as WIPER’S) This and the Menim Gate memorial in this lovely little Belgian town is much worth visiting. Even today the last post is sounded every day at 8pm - a most moving experience surrounded, as you are, with 55,000 names of men who have no known grave in the ‘Ypres Salient’. The museum is full of artefacts and reconstructions of battle scenes, trenches and, of course, many photographs. One photograph depicted a chaplain conducting a battlefield funeral. Many shrouded bodies were laid in a mass grave. men stood to attention around its edge and the chaplain, with his hand outstretched, was blessing the dead. There was mud everywhere
and the rain was lashing down. Though the circumstances were so different, I confess to having shared a sense of companionship with the priest in the photograph, how appalling was his duty that day, and how I hoped that he was able to bring a little sense of presence of the love of God into that most dreadful situation. As one unnamed poet once said: “Dear God, you make no sense of war “It’s men of war who must endure.” From our perspective the First World War, especially, made so little sense and the horrendous suffering is a terrible blot on human history. Now we can only bare our heads and think of the sacrifice, and pray that, in the words of the Psalmist, that one day “we will len to make war no more”. I pray that day will one day come.
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Glo
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It was not impossible to imagine the torture of trying to survive in such a benighted landscape; but of course the terror of battle, the horror of constant shelling and the overwhelming fear of violent death are not experiences that one, like myself, who has never experienced such things, can truly comprehend. Later that same day my wife
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We have just endured one of the wettest summers on record and the autumn, despite days of golden sunshine, has proved to be little better. One particularly sodden day in late June I was standing by a graveside in a local cemetery with mud oozing over the top of my shoes and the rain falling. As the service came to an end and the mourners made their way home I tried, unsuccessfully, to clean myself up a bit before getting in the car. Mud, in those circumstances, gets everywhere. I was wet through, and from my knees down, covered in mud. As I struggled to wipe the worst away my mind went back to a similarly wet day that my wife and I experienced in Flanders when we went to visit the First World War battlefields. There the mud is even more glutenous than here and because the land is so very low lying it floods easily.
City Brunel centre site
Opening hours Mon-Fri, 8.30am-5.30pm Sat, 8.30am-12.30pm
The home of fair priced funerals 177 Crow Lane, Henbury, BS10 7DR Tel: 0117 950 8066 Web: www.bcmfuneralservices.co.uk
Got a story/something you would like everyone in Filton to know about? Call Richard on 0777 555 0607 or email richard@filtonvoice.co.uk
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Santa 2012
Steam Specials
Tel: 0117 932 5538 www.avonvalleyrailway.org Bitton Railway Station, Bath Road, Bitton, Bristol BS30 6HD info@avonvalleyrailway.org
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NOW
TAKI BOO NG KING S
November, 2012
News MP critical of foreign aid spending: Filton and Bradley Stoke MP Jack Lopresti has criticised the Government’s spending on the Foreign Aid budget and the ever increasing cost of the EU in the face of cuts to the Defence budget. He was speaking in a debate in Parliament on the future of the Royal Regiment of Fusiliers (2RRF), which has been earmarked for disbandment by the Government’s ‘Army 2020’ proposals. In the debate Mr Lopresti said: “It is lunacy for the Government to put themselves in the position of having to make these difficult decisions. Is it not about time the Government reassessed their priorities and put defence of the realm at the top of that list?” Earlier 400 ex-members of the Royal Regiment of Fusiliers entered Parliament to attend and watch the Backbench Business Committee debate.
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To advertise, contact Richard on 0777 555 0607, Emma on 0771 577 0448 or Wendy on 0771 577 0242. Email: adverts@filtonvoice.co.uk
Choir at the Colston Hall Christmas Discos - Thursday 13th Decemb The Colston Hall was treated to an amazing KS1 ~ 4.15pm to 5.30pm performance by our choir just before the term KS2 ~ 5.45pm to 7.00pm. break when our School Family Choir performed five pieces to a large audience in the foyer of the Book at Bedtime Colston Hall. They were asked to performwww.filtonvoice.co.uk as part Don’t miss out. Look out for your Book at Bed November, 2012 E: richard@filtonvoice.co.uk of the Festival of Song. It was fantastic to hear letter and choose a story for you and your chi st such wonderful praise from members of the public to enjoy on Wednesday 21 November, 6:30 about our children. What was also great were the 7:30pm. Remember to wear pjs and bring you large numbers of parents who were also present to teddy. see their St Teresa’s Primary as part of the Festival of Song. Movies and Munchies children with Graham The Colston Hall was treated to It was fantastic to hear such perform. The premier for the year 3, 4 and 5 summer Simmonds of goto iT nd an amazing performance by our wonderful praise from members Well done to production will be held on Thursday 22 children just before the term of the public about our children. you all and November, 3:30 – 5pm. Tickets cost £2:50 to Jargon break when our School Family What was also great wasthanks the large to include a drink and a snack. buster Choir performed five pieces to a numbers of parents whoMrs were Marsh In the large audience in the foyer. also present to see theirwho children joined Christmas Fayre months They were asked to perform perform. us for the Thank you to those who sent in bottles and ja leading afternoon. upthe to Christmas Fayre, we had an excellent response. The fayre will be held on Thursday Christmas, Shoe Box Appeal November, from 3:15 – 4:45pm. Please come I thought mightus. be It’s helpful Just a reminder that the last day for bringing in along to it support a great opportunity to to have a list of aup few shoe boxes filled with gifts is Wednesday 14th socialise, stock onwords Christmas gifts, and sa you might come across, with NOVEMBER. some tasty snacks.
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Schools
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Computer tips
their definitions. Tablet – a of laptop normally Question the Week without a keyboard. Usually In Sunday’s gospel Jesus tells us to love our just a flat screen which you neighbour as ourselves. Question for adults: Why is love of neighbou touch to operate. important – asalove of laptop, God? Netbook small Year 4 Cake Sale Question When do you show th usually doesfor notchildren: have a DVD Please come along next Friday after school and you and love is God and your neighbour with your w drive very portable. purchase yummy cakes and support our Year 4 heart? RAM – Random Access class family. Memory – the space that a And Finally… computer uses to think. Don’t forget that the school will be closed on Processor –th the bit inside Thursday 15 November for polling. the computer that does all Email: st.teresas.p@bristol.gov.uk 08/11/2012/ Tel no. 0117 9030412 the thinking! Hard drive – the place where all your photos, music and documents are stored. – like a filing cabinet. Monitor – the screen you look at on your computer. Operating system (OS) – the programme that holds the computer together – often Windows but can also with many excellent entries. Three committee members be Linux and many others. From these entries, the FCAG joined us for Assembly on Software – programmes Committee then chose three Tuesday, 9th October, when that enable you to do things prize-winners, with an overall they spoke a little bit about their like write a letter or send an winner. organisation and awarded the email. The prize-winning students were: prizes. If you would like more overall winner: Olivia Thorne Y10 Olivia’s winning entry will information, please contact (8GB I-Pod Touch) now take pride of place on the us on 0117 969 8767 or visit Runners-up: Chantel Taylor corporate material for the Filton us in our shop on the corner Y8 (£100 Mall Gift Vouchers) and Community Action Group. of Filton Ave and the A4174. Chloe Blythe Y10 (£50 Mall Gift Well done to her and all the Advert on Page 8 Vouchers) entrants. Warm coats The weather is noticeably colder so please ensure that your child has a warm coat for playtimes and lunchtimes.
Abbeywood Community School In April of this year, we were approached by the Filton Community Action Group (FCAG) who asked if we could submit some proposals for the design of their new logo. A competition was organised by Mrs Mead and Ms Guy for students from all years to design a logo and they were inundated
Bristol Blinds We put others in the shade Call us on 0117 979 1918 for a FREE quotation 6 Church View, Filton, Bristol BS34 7BT
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.
124 Gloucester Road North | 0117 979 9594 www.flowersinbloombristol.co.uk
Got a story/something you would like everyone in Filton to know about? Call Richard on 0777 555 0607 or email richard@filtonvoice.co.uk
• 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.
Filton Town Council meetings November 20th, 7.30p.m Planning Committee Small Meeting Room 27th, 7.30p.m Full Council Pavilion December 4th, 7.30p.m Finance Committee Pavilion 11th, 7.30p.m Full Council Pavilion
Meetings open to public other than consultative committee and staffing
Filton Sports and Leisure Centre Get fit for Christmas Aqua Running Thursdays 10am – 10.45am, adults 50+ 11am – 11.45am Boot Camp every Monday & Friday on Elm Park playing fields 6–7pm free cool down swim after Filton Sports and Leisure Centre CHILDREN IN NEED!! th
On the 16 November Filton Sports and Leisure Centre will be donating 50% of all Leisure Activity Takings to Children in need! COME ALONG AND JOIN IN! Please contact Leisure Centre Reception to find out what activities we will be available on the day; 01454 866686
Recruitment open day The start to Thursday 11th October 2012 was rather nervous for the staff involved with the Recruitment Day wondering if any of the candidates would turn up! The team where wearing their newly designed uniform. The day started off slowly, however by 10.30am we were in full flow and the day turned
out to be a success with 138 candidates being interviewed for Full Time Leisure Assistant posts, Casual Leisure Assistants, Receptionists and casual swimming teachers. We short-listed 40 candidates for the Leisure Assistant positions, 10 candidates for Reception and 8 candidates for the swim teachers’ position.
We are working through the final stages for employment of these candidates. The hope is our new staff members will be in place by December, 2012. We would like to take this opportunity to thank all those who attended our Recruitment Day and hopefully see you in the Leisure Centre.
Ratepayers Arms Christmas Opening
l Christmas Day 12 - 2p.m. l Christmas Night Closed l Boxing Day - Closed l Thursday 27th December 7p.m. -11p.m. l Friday 28th December 7p.m. - 11p.m. l Saturday 29th December 11am - Midnight l Sunday 30th 12 noon - 11p.m. l New Year’s Eve 7p.m. - 1p.m. l New Year’s Day Closed
Filton Sports and Leisure Centre Children’s Christmas Party Saturday 15th December 2012 3 – 5pm Disco, party games & food £4.00 each 3 for £10.00 3 – 11 years Christmas Closure for refurbishment and Cleaning Closed Saturday 22nd December 2012 – Tuesday 1st January Reopen on 2nd January
e
• Contact the town council office Tel: 01454 866 698; Leisure Centre Tel: 01454 866686; or our website www.filtontowncouncil.gov.uk
Local businesses urged to give their support to Community Garden project
SWIMMING LESSONS RE-BOOKING Lessons Start Monday 7th January 2013 10 week course cost’s £48.00 Booking Dates Monday 12th November - Saturday 17th November until 2pm New Customers Starting from Sunday 25th November 9.30am we shall be taking new bookings. On this day bookings must be made in PERSON ONLY. If you need an assessment please book in at reception. Please note there are Health Forms to be completed We are always looking to try new things, so if you have an idea please lets us know, The swimming team would like to wish you all a happy Christmas and New Year Please contact our swimming team if you require any further information; Vicki Graham and Judith Bush
Swimming Co-ordinators
Please contact by Telephone 01454 866686 Monday 1.30pm 3.30pm Tuesday Wednesday Thursday 3pm 3.45pm Friday’ 9.00am 10.00am Swimming@filtontowncouncil.gov.uk
Local businesses are being invited to play their part in Filton’s Community Garden project. Organisers are hoping that local firms will step forward to invest in the project, following the lead of a number of companies which have already offered financial support. Firms would be given mentions in dedications in the garden. Meetings with residents and councillors involved in the community garden project have led to alterations to the original plan. As we went to press, costings were due to be submitted to the finance committee and the decision will be noted on the website. The design last submitted by Groundworks is being altered with respect to the Central Woodblocx feature. The committee felt that the original square design, with feature 4x corner planters and built-in benching, was a key item. There was a similar view on the 4 octogonal planters in front of each. We are examining costs and the paths and central base will be made of Hoggins and not paving slabs to save on costs and use the saved money elsewhere in the project The paths will be submitted as per design as will the design of the “concord” flower beds surrounding the paths. We hope to have a new quote from Woodblocx with the central round planter removed, saving £950 which can be used elsewhere paving for example. Members were given tasks to contact various groups and organisations for their input into design and maintenance in the long term. So far in addition to the £5,000 Filton Town Council are putting up, the kitty stands at £500, with donations from Bristol Water (£250), Filton Personal Computers (£100), B&Q (£100), and Ernest Till (£50). We are obviously looking for further investment from local business who would get mentioned in a dedication at the garden.
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Petcare with Michael Parry of Vets4Pets in Filton
Dealing with Pet Arthritis How to spot the symptoms, get the condition diagnosed and slow down its progression. With the onset of winter and the damp and cold conditions, have you noticed your pet limping, is stiff or experiences difficulty in standing up? If he or she is generally less agile or active than normal then your pet may be suffering from arthritis. Similar to arthritis in humans, pet arthritis is a condition where joints can become inflamed and swollen causing pain, stiffness and loss of mobility. Damp and cold weather can often cause ‘flare ups’ of the condition. The most common form is Osteoarthritis, a progressive condition caused by wear and tear on cartilage. In the worst cases, cartilage wears away completely so the bones in the joint rub together causing intense pain. If you think your pet is suffering from arthritis seek advice from your vet as soon as possible.
Whilst there isn’t a cure for arthritis there are a variety of treatments your vet can recommend to help reduce the pain and discomfort your pet may be suffering. Four steps to help treat arthritis in your pet... 1. Consult your vet to get the condition diagnosed and get advice about possible treatments. 2. Modify your pet’s home environment: • Keep your pet warm and place its bed in a warm, dry and draft-free area. • Keep litter boxes and food and water dishes at a comfortable height for your pet. • Add non-slip rugs or carpet tiles to areas of slippery flooring. 3. Manage your pet’s weight and diet 4. Keep them moving. Also, never give a pet human medication. Certain medicines such as Ibuprofen and Paracetamol can be toxic to animals.
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Send parasites packing
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Shield Retail Centre, Gloucester Road, Filton, BS34 7BQ
Award-winning GP Practice – Recruiting New Patients NOW!
Have you registered with us yet? WHY YOU SHOULD… • • • • •
Personalised service – you will have your own GP Fast service – we always have same day appointments Convenient service – open 8:00am to 6:30pm Mon-Fri, AND Sat am 24 hour telephone and on-line booking available Email and telephone GP consultations available Extensive range of services offered including: Stop smoking support | on-site pharmacy | travel clinic | sexual health
See www.horfieldhealthcentre.nhs.uk for further information and registration form Horfield Health Centre, Lockleaze Road, Horfield, Bristol BS7 9RR, Tel: 0117 9695391, Email: horfield@gp-L81022.nhs.uk
Listening • Caring • Responsive To advertise, contact Richard on 0777 555 0607, Emma on 0771 577 0448 or Wendy on 0771 577 0242. Email: adverts@filtonvoice.co.uk
Station Road, Little Stoke, Bristol BS34 6HW
Don’t miss out on our fantastic offer
Join the best value gym in the area now!
£29.99 £19.99 (Monthly peak membership)
(Monthly off peak membership)
Gym fitness • Studio classes • Pool & spa facilities Dedicated weights room • Spin studio Join online or visit us. Enter promo code RIV29 (peak) or RIV19 (off peak). Terms & conditions apply.
Tel: 01454 888 666 www.riversidebristol.co.uk RS November Offer 2pp Flyer.indd 1
£ 20 ee. f G n i join hiP S r e b m n o m e ac T S . co n Tr 25/10/2012 08:19
WHEN the Great Western Air Ambulance Charity crew receive a 999 call they know it’s a critical case. Less than 20 minutes later a paramedic and doctor could be anywhere within the area we cover. The result? One patient in five – a patient otherwise expected to die – survives! We must raise £1.5m each year to continue operating. We receive nothing from the government or National Lottery.
Our range of Christmas cards for 2012 are available to buy from our website now!
Please donate and help Great Western Air Ambulance Charity keep you - and this region - safe.
Tel. 0117 969 9344—0303 444 4999 info@greatwesternairambulance.com
www.greatwesternairambulance.com Registered Charity Number 1121300
November, 2012
E: richard@filtonvoice.co.uk
News
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Public questions ruling ‘a demolition of democracy’ by Stephen Hortham Filton residents could find it more difficult to raise matters for discussion at public meetings after the Town Council introduced changes to the rules for public participation. With immediate effect, members of the public attending council meetings will only be able to make verbal submissions about topics that are specifically mentioned on the agenda. Speaking at October’s Full Council meeting, Chair Adam Monk said there was a feeling amongst councillors that the public submission sessions had been “getting unpleasant”. Residents at the meeting disputed this, claiming that their questioning might be “challenging” but could not be considered “unpleasant”. The rule restricting questions to items on the agenda is contained in the council’s Standing Orders but has not been enforced in recent times. One resident at the meeting described the move as “a demolition of democracy” and said the Chair needed to police meetings better - for example, by asking people to leave. Another member of the public asked if the Town Council could operate the system used by Bristol City Council, whereby questions can be submitted in writing before noon the day before a meeting. A further constraint on citizen involvement was agreed
“We promised transparency. We’re going backwards if we don’t allow people to speak.”
Cllr Melanie Drewitt later in the meeting when councillors voted to withdraw the public participation sessions that currently take place at the end of meetings of the Finance Committee. The motion to withdraw the sessions, which had been introduced on a trial basis for an unspecified period of time, was proposed by Cllr Brian Mead. The proposal was supported by Cllr Monk, who said the current system “wasn’t working well”, adding: “We don’t bring all the invoices to the meeting, so the likelihood of getting a satisfactory answer is quite slim.” Cllr Melanie Drewitt was alone in opposing the motion, saying: “We promised transparency. We’re going backwards if we don’t allow people to speak.” When it came to a vote, Cllr Mead’s motion was approved 7:1. Members of the public must now submit their questions in writing seven days prior to each meeting of the Finance Committee. Their questions, and the council’s responses to them, will be published in the agenda that is produced five days before each meeting.
Ovenclean will transform your oven and put the sparkle back into your kitchen! Local, friendly, professional, reliable Eco-friendly cleaning, no fumes, no mess Call Nigel or Suzanne on
01454 415506 or 07557 110932 www.ovenclean.com
How do Filton Town Council’s policies compare to our neighbours in South Gloucestershire? • Bradley Stoke Town Council and Stoke Gifford Parish Council both allow public questions at all council meetings (including committees), with no restriction on topics. • Patchway Town Council only permits questions to be asked at every second meeting of its Full Council. Answers are not given “onthe-spot” but in written form after the meeting. Public questions are not permitted at other meetings of Full Council or committees.
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Cyclists told: Show lights at cop shop
Cyclists riding without lights during the hours of darkness in Filton are being issued with notices requiring them to prove ownership of a set of lights at a police station. Anyone failing to comply within the space of two weeks is liable to be issued with a fine. Police report that everyone who has so far been issued with a ticket has duly attended the station with the necessary evidence.
Man charged after laptop stolen
A man has appeared in court charged with stealing watches and a laptop computer from a home in Filton following his arrest in the town on Saturday, October 13 2012. The 22-year-old appeared before Northavon Magistrates and was remanded in custody until his next appearance.
DRIVERS!
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Health Matters with Dr Clive Roberts, Horfield Health Centre
Now Autumn is here many of us are turning on our central heating systems. Those of us using gas or solid fuel need to be aware of the dangers of Carbon Monoxide poisoning. Poorly-maintained boilers or blocked ventilation openings can give rise to a smoky yellow flame, preventing the fuel burning completely and allowing carbon monoxide to build up. Symptoms include drowsiness, headaches, nausea, weakness, shaking and confusion. Always have new appliances fitted and maintained annually by appropriate registered trades people. Have your chimney swept and inspected regularly and ensure ventilation openings are not blocked and are free of vegetations. Fit an audible Carbon Monoxide alarm certified to BS 50291 above your boiler or stove and have it tested annually when your appliances are. An alarm is not a substitute! Visit www. co-awareness.org
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November, 2012
JLS were joined on stage by Wallace & Gromit to switch on the Christmas lights and officially open the Winter Wonderland at the Mall, Cribbs Causeway before the band performed a live set for 10,000 fans in the outdoor arena. Hosted by Daybreak presenter Mark Heyes, the event raised £20,000 for Wallace & Gromit’s Grand Appeal, supporting Bristol Children’s Hospital. The band treated fans to a live 30min set including an exclusive performance of their new single, ‘Hottest Girl In the World.’ The Mall’s Winter Wonderland is now open until 6th January, visit www. mallcribbs.com for more information, ticket prices and online bookings.
See our advert, Page 18
To advertise, contact Richard on 0777 555 0607, Emma on 0771 577 0448 or Wendy on 0771 577 0242. Email: adverts@filtonvoice.co.uk
November, 2012
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Advertising feature: Getting to Know You
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A festive feast without fuss Profile: Wiltshire Farm Foods
Festive turkey dinner with all the trimmings and not a saucepan in sight. What more could you want for Christmas? Christmas is a time for relaxing, so leave mealtimes to Wiltshire Farm Foods. They have created a range of classic Christmas meals and desserts to celebrate the festive season that will really excite your tastebuds. The Hearty Roast Turkey meal with all the trimmings, followed by a classic Christmas pudding and custard, packed with fruit and served with lashings of custard, is the perfect choice for a winter
A full festive dinner and not a saucepan in sight. What more could you want for Christmas? Christmas is a time for putting your feet up, so leave mealtimes to Wiltshire Farm Foods. They offer around 250 delicious, individually portioned dishes, including irresistible Christmas options. Honey Roast Turkey Breast with vegetables £3.95 FREE DELIVERY
Tasty meals from £2.95
Yule be glad you chose Wiltshire Farm Foods this Christmas! 21 YEARS of great service
For a FREE brochure call us on
0800 773 773 wiltshirefarmfoods.com
meal. If you fancy something lighter this Christmas, they offer a Roast Chicken in Red Wine and Mushroom sauce, perhaps combined with a sherry trifle. You’ll be spoilt for choice! A Perfect Christmas Menu Using ingredients selected from carefullyapproved suppliers and then prepared by a team of nutritionists and award-winning chefs in their kitchens, Wiltshire Farm Foods creates and delivers a delicious range of frozen meals that can be cooked in minutes. This Christmas they have brought back lots of seasonal favourites and introduced some delicious new choices. They are especially proud of the Gammon in Cranberry and Orange Sauce, pictured above, which would make an excellent alternative to roast turkey. To start you off, you might like to order the Christmas Selection Pack, with six festive meals and four desserts, all for just £29.95. It’s a great way to try a variety of favourite meals and includes a free 12 Days of Christmas Tea Towel, The Twelve Days pictured. of Christmas Your Local Service Convenience is a key part of the Wiltshire Farm Foods offering. All meals can be ordered over the phone or online. They’re then delivered by a friendly, local driver, who is always happy to put meals away in the freezer, if preferred. With the freezer stocked up, a hot meal is only ever a few minutes away so you can relax this Christmas and let Wiltshire Farm Foods do all the hard work! Established over 20 years ago, the local Wiltshire Farm Foods team based in Portbury delivers approximately 15,000 meals or desserts each week to satisfied customers throughout Bristol, South Gloucestershire and North Somerset. Adam Michallat-Cox said: “Whatever you choose, our delicious meals and puddings offer great value as well as great taste. “Our Christmas menu also caters for diabetic and gluten-free dietary needs too, so customers can enjoy festive meals with confidence.” For a free copy of the Wiltshire Farm Foods Christmas menu or to order the Christmas Selection Pack, phone 0800 773 773 or visit www.wiltshirefarmfoods.com.
Got a story/something you would like everyone in Filton to know about? Call Richard on 0777 555 0607 or email richard@filtonvoice.co.uk WFF_Xmas_170mm x 120mm_Bristol.indd 1
17/10/2012 15:24
TACT Advert:TACT Advert
04/11/2010
11:39
Page 1
Brighter futures TACT fosters more children and young people than any other UK charity. As a charity, our staff, foster carers and supporters are making every penny work hard for the young people in our care. There is no such thing as an ideal foster carer - if you have a spare room and time and energy then you could provide a young person with a happy home. In return we will give you 24/7 support, up to £445 per child, per week and professional training. Although the real rewards will come from knowing you’ve made a difference to the life of a child.
filtonvoice Filtonvoice exclusive competition: Win a family ticket to see Santa!
November, 2012
E: richard@filtonvoice.co.uk
Avon Valley Railway is running Santa Steam Specials every weekend in December plus Christmas Eve, November 25 and Monday December 10. Father Christmas will be on the steam train at the Avon Valley Railway in Bitton where accompanied by his helpers, he will make his way along the train, stopping to talk to the children and, providing they have been good, give them each a quality present. Parents are not neglected as everyone will receive a delicious Anstees’ mince pie or festive biscuit. Train times range from 10.30am to 4.45pm depending on the day with prices ranging from £9 to £12. For more information or to book your trip to Santa visit www.avonvalleyrailway.org or call 0117 932 5538
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Police beat call: Filton town councillors say they want to see a police beat post established in Filton before the Gloucester Road North police station closes in 2014. Police say two previous attempts to set up a beat post (at the flower shop and at Church View flats) proved unsuccessful but the matter will be reviewed before the station is lost.
ANDREW MURLEY
To win a family ticket simply answer the following question: Which of Santa’s reindeer has a red nose? Send your answer with your name and address to Filton Voice competition, Wendy Best, Avon Valley Railway, Bath Road, Bitton, BS30 6HD by November 16 2012.
Digital Aerial Installations TV / DVD Repairs 20 Years’ Experience
Terms and conditions The winner will receive a ticket valid for two adults and two children for the 10.30am trip to see Santa on Sunday November 25 at Avon Valley Railway. Date is not transferrable. Transport to and from Avon Valley Railway at Bitton is not included.
Freeview & Digital Recorders, Sales & Installations. Tel. 01454 774045 / 07890 336310
See advert on Page 14
Gales Farm Meats
Windows and doors needing some attention?
Christmas Fayre
• 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?
Quality Fresh Farm Meats
Winter warmers of stewing meat, braising steak and roasting joints
• Bronze, Free Range Turkey, Goose, Duck and Chicken • Smoke & Unsmoked Gammon Joints • Game & Venison • Beef, Pork & Lamb Joints
• Speciality Xmas Pies • Sausages & Sausagemeat • Fresh Vegetables and Groceries always available
... call us, we can help
Please call in to the shop or ring to place your Christmas order
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
Patchway
Find us on Church View, beside the Post Office Filton Church Gales Farm Meats
A38
Bristol
Shield Centre
Ring Road
DGR Windows For a free quotation, call Mike on 07530 159050
Got a story/something you would like everyone in Filton to know about? Call Richard on 0777 555 0607 or email richard@filtonvoice.co.uk
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November, 2012
Filton beat with Sgt Steve Ives I want to update you about an initiative that the force as a whole, and therefore your local officers, has been working on for the past month or so. Our Relentless drive to keep you safe has been targeting ‘Serious Acquisitive Crime’, which includes thefts of and from motor vehicles, dwelling burglary and robbery. Since September 11 we have arrested almost 1,000 people. Of course we are always working on your behalf to track down these criminals. One recent example is that we had information that a possible burglary offender was out and about in the Filton area. We brought extra staff in to search for him. He was found with stolen items in his possession. Now the clocks have gone back it will soon be dark before we get home. Traditionally burglary can increase at this time of year –
even in lower-crime areas like ours. Try to get your home security up to scratch: • Lock windows and doors to prevent opportunist thieves walking in while you’re watching tv or putting the kids to bed • Set a timer light switch to come on at dusk
• Fit motion-sensing security lights outside • Fit and use an alarm at night as well as when you are out • Draw the curtains so thieves can’t see in • Hide your keys away securely and never leave them in the door • Register property on the free national database www. immobilise.com and mark it with your postcode • Join or set up Neighbourhood Watch – call 01454 864404 to find out more.
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, call 999. Otherwise call 101 24/7.
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 –
To advertise, contact Richard on 0777 555 0607, Emma on 0771 577 0448 or Wendy on 0771 577 0242. Email: adverts@filtonvoice.co.uk
filtonvoice Filton planning applications and decisions, October E: richard@filtonvoice.co.uk
November, 2012
Applications l 87 Gloucester Road North Installation of 1 front and 1 side dormer to facilitate loft conversion and create additional rooms to Guest House. l 14 Dunkeld Avenue Erection of single storey and two storey rear extensions to form additional living accommodation. l 11 Mackie Grove Erection of single storey extension to existing garage to include new pitched roof l 2A Mortimer Road Erection of 2 semi detached dwellings with new access and associated works (Amended scheme to previous approval PT07/2909/F) l 9 Gayner Road Demolition of existing garage. Erection of 2 dwellings with associated works.
l 5 Conygre Road Change of use from Care Home (Class C2) to Dwellinghouse with supported care (Class 3b) as defined in Town and Country Planning (Use Classes) Order 1987 (as amended). (Retrospective). l 1 Gayner Road Erection of two storey extension to facilitate conversion of 1 no. dwelling to 2 flats and erection of three storey building to form 7 flats. Creation of new access with parking, bin and cycle stores and associated works. l 7 The Brimbles Erection of single storey front extension and conversion of integral garage to form residential annexe. Decisions l 17 Charlton Avenue Works to 1 Horsechestnut tree to
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Good behaviour for Hallowe’en
20% crown thin, 3 m crown lift and 2 m reduction of branches extending to the care home to the North East covered by Tree Preservation Order SGTPO 19/03 dated 17 May 2004. Approve with Conditions l 11 Lomond Road Demolition of existing garage. Erection of single storey side and rear extension to provide replacement garage and additional living accommodation Approve with Conditions l 736 Filton Avenue Erection of first floor rear extension to provide additional living accommodation for first floor flat. Approve with Conditions l 39 Branksome Drive Erection of rear conservatory and extension of raised rear decking area. Approve with Conditions
Wet weather failed to dampen the spirit of “trick and treaters” as Filton once again enjoyed a fun-packed Halloween. For the third successive year, the number of 999 calls to Avon and Somerset police fell below the 1,000 mark and calls to the non emergency 101 service also remained below the 1,000 barrier, making it the quietest “fright night” ever in Avon and Somerset. Between 4.30pm and 2.30am on Thursday November 1 just 332 999 calls were recorded, compared with 475 calls last year, which was itself a reduction on the 571 received in 2010. Year-on-year since 2007 there has been a reduction in the number of calls recorded. On what has traditionally been one of the busiest nights of the year for the police in Avon and Somerset (more than 1900 999 calls were recorded in 2007) there has been a gradual decrease in 999 calls.
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November, 2012
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, 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. For details, contact Brian Frost on 0117 9651242, Brnf3335@ aol.com, Work club: St Andrews Methodist Youth Centre, Elm Park, BS34 7PS , 2-4.30pm: 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! Filtones Choir. We rehearse every Wednesday afternoon from 1.45 to 3.45 p.m. at Eden Grove Methodist Church. “We are a non auditioning four part harmony choir of mainly retired ladies and gentleman who enjoy the sociability of singing together. We give afternoon concerts to organisations, such as pensioners’ clubs, all over Bristol, and at
least two main evening concerts every year, one of which is in summer (our main charity fund raising event) and at Christmas. We have sufficient sopranos at present but are actively seeking tenors, basses and ladies who can sing alto. If you would like to come along and try us out please ring our Musical Director, Mike Watson on 0117 9083778 for a chat or just come along one Wednesday afternoon and have a listen to us. You will be made very welcome.” For more information please see our web site www.filtones.co.uk
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 0117 969 3326 Silver surfers: St Andrews Methodist Youth Centre, Elm Park, BS34 7PS, 10am-noon (note we’ve changed from Fridays!) Drop-in for ‘silver-haired’ folk (over 50yrs) to get help with ac-
cessing 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
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 Youth Centre
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) Street dance sessions! £2 per session for 9-14year 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! Fun football sessions are on at Elm Park courts 6.30-8pm for 11-14year olds, £1 per week - football skills and matches, looking to get teams together to play against other youth centres 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
To advertise, contact Richard on 0777 555 0607, Emma on 0771 577 0448 or Wendy on 0771 577 0242. Email: adverts@filtonvoice.co.uk
November, 2012
E: richard@filtonvoice.co.uk
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; 7.30-9pm: Senior Judo 13+, £2.50 children/students, £3 adults Wednesday: Occasional
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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+, 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 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;
What’s coming up in Filton
Sat, 24th Nov
Filton Library: Underwater Adventure: crafts and stories for children aged 3-10, 2.30pm – 3.30pm. FREE
Sat, 1st Dec
Charborough Road Primary Christmas Bazaar,10.30-1.00. Come and see Father Christmas in our fabulous grotto. Fun and games for all the family. Face painting, Craft, Tombola and all the usual favourites. Grand raffle with great prizes. Refreshments available. 50p entry.
Fri, 7th Dec
Filtones Choir Christmas Crackers Concert, 7.30 p.m at Eden Grove Methodist Church, Eden Grove, Horfield. Tickets are £6 obtainable in advance from 0117 9690654 or on the door. There will be a collection in aid of “Heartful Dodgers”, the Southmead and Frenchay Hospitals’ Charity appeal.
Sat, 8th Dec
11am-2pm: St Andrew’s Methodist Youth Centre’s Christmas Fayre! 50p entry for over 16s: includes lots of fun and games, raffle, various stalls, refreshments and Santa’s Grotto for just £1.50!
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l Friday 28th December, Saturday 29th December and Monday 31st December 9.30am – 5pm l Tuesday 1st January and Wednesday 2nd January Closed
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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 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
Weekdays
Coffee shop, 9am – 12:30pm, St Peter’s Church, Filton
Town council See Page 16
Tues, 11th Dec
Filton Library, Volunteer Bureau drop in session. For those interested in volunteering opportunities. 10am - 12pm
Sat, 22nd Dec
Filton Library, Christmas Crackers: crafts and stories for children aged 3-11. 2.30pm – 3.30pm. FREE
Library hours l Monday 24th December 9.30am – 1pm l Tuesday 25th December, Wednesday 26th December, Thursday 27th December Closed
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Arts focus with Deborah Harvey Having been treated to a free reading by our Poet Laureate, Carol Ann Duffy by Bristol University to mark the launch of their new Poetry Institute the night before, I could hardly believe my good fortune at hearing distinguished filmmaker and historian, Michael Wood, deliver the Monica Jones Memorial Lecture on behalf of Bristol City Museum – again free of charge and again at the University. Even the fact that I had got drenched traipsing from the car to the lecture theatre didn’t seem to matter at all. I should confess right now to having a bit of a crush on the lovely Michael Wood (as he is known in my house) , which dates back to the days when he could be seen striding over the Hindu Kush in his trademark sheepskin jacket and really quite tight jeans, on this occasion in search of Alexander Great. Both he and I have aged considerably since then, but Mr Wood is still a fascinating
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Michael Wood:The Monica Jones Memorial Lecture
and passionate speaker and educator. I’ve heard him lecture several times, on subjects as diverse as India and Kibworth in Leicestershire. This time he showed several clips from his most recent offering, The Great British Story, which was televised back in the summer, as he discussed how the series was commissioned and made. One of the things I enjoyed most about the Kibworth series was the stroke of genius
that persuaded locals to read passages from the extensive historical archive of the town. So much more moving to hear the manager of the pub football team read from an account of the Black Death than an actor with no connection to the place. Michael explained that until that point he had always avoided re-enactments like … well, like the plague, but this experience had changed his mind. He had since gone on to work with members of the Sealed Knot Society, who had intrigued him by staying in character all weekend and insisting on answering his questions in Englysshe appropriate to the era! I left still rather damp, but full of inspiration for both poetry writing and jaunting, a trip to see the recently discovered and astounding mediaeval murals at Llancarfan at the top of my list. Deborah Harvey is a Filton poet and author.
November, 2012
Weight limit ignored on Filton Avenue The weight restriction on the stretch of Filton Avon north of the ring road is being routinely ignored, residents told the October meeting of Filton Town Council. Cllr Brian Freeguard agreed, adding that he believed Royal Mail vehicles are using Filton Avenue as a short cut to get to the M32. Traffic near the King George VI pub was described as “horrendous” with only a few vehicles managing to pass through the junction while the lights are green. There were also calls for general traffic to be permitted to pass straight across the junction to the other part of Filton Avenue.
Cyclists ignore lights
Filton Cllr Doug Daniels has called for a clampdown on cyclists who speed across pedestrian crossings when the lights are showing red for traffic. Crossings near the Shield Retail Centre, on Gloucester Road North near the police station and on Filton Avenue are hotspots for rogue cyclists, he told a recent Town Council meeting.
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