Long Ashton and Failand Voice November 2023

www.longashtonandfailandvoice.co.uk

November 2023 Issue 8

FREE EVERY MONTH IN LONG ASHTON & FAILAND AREA BREAKING NEWS

Natural England’s Rodney Stoke site

EPIC submits its planning application...

Find out what happens next and have your say TURN TO PAGE 3

Remembering LA’s greatest cricketer Page 6

The impact of lost green belt on biodiversity Page 11

Mendip Hills ‘Super’ National Nature Reserve launched

NATURAL England and its partners have launched Mendip National Nature Reserve in the new King’s Series of National Nature Reserves.

The new ‘super’ National Nature Reserve covers 1,410ha

of land from Brean Down to East Mendip and marks the second in the new King’s Series of National Nature Reserves committed to enhancing biodiversity and nature recovery.

The Series will see five major National Nature Reserve

11 houses get the green light Page 22 Ultramarathon man raises vital funds Page 5

declarations each year for the next five years. The declaration comes as the result of a partnership between Natural England, Mendip Hills AONB, the National Trust, Longleat/ Cheddar Gorge Caves, Somerset Continued on page 5 >

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November 2023

n WELCOME

Welcome to issue 8

Contacts Ruth Drury sales director & publisher 07590 527 664 ruth@longashtonandfailandvoice.co.uk

Hello and welcome to our wintry November issue!

Please send news and editorial requests to Cathy at: editor@longashtonandfailandvoice.co.uk

With Epic plans finally submitted, the outcome of this could change our village and surrounding areas for ever.

Next issue’s copy deadlines: Editorial: 10 November Advertising: 14 November HOW TO GET IN TOUCH

southbristolvoice southbritolvoice MP

Now is your chance to put your views forward at a special open meeting – whether you are for or against this development. (See details, below right.)

May 2022

As we head into winter, it’s that time of year again when we celebrate Bonfire night. Keep your dogs safe with the tips on page 15 and check out the bonfire safety tips on page 21.

November 202

3 Issue 8 FREE EVE RY MONTH

Natural Englan Rodney Stoke d’s site

www.longa shtonandfai landvoice.co .uk

IN LONG ASH

TON & FAIL

AND ARE

A

BREAKIN

G NEWS

EPIC subm its its planning application ...

Find out what happens next and your say have TURN TO PAGE 3

Remember ing LA’s greatest crick eter

Page 6

Mendip Nature ReHisells ‘Super’ National rve launched

NATURAL partners England and its have launch Mendip ed National Nature Reserve in Series of the new King’s National Reserves.

Nature The new ‘super’ National Nature Reserv e covers 1,410h a

of land from East Mendi Brean Down to p and marks second in the the of National new King’s Series committed Nature Reserves to diversity and enhancing bioThe Series nature recovery. will National Naturesee five major Reserve

declarations each year next five years. for the The declara comes as tion the partnership result of a between Natura England, l Mendip Hills the Nation AONB, al Trust, Longle Cheddar Gorge at/ Caves, Somer set Continued on page 5 >

The impa green beltct of lost biodivers on ity

Page 11

11 houses get the green light Page 22

Ultramara raises vitalthon man funds

Page 5

Dr Liam Fox We Sell an d Let Prop HOWliam.fox.mp@parliament.uk DO I GET IN TOUCH WITH ...

Email: erty Like Yo urs Twitter: @LiamFox My MP? Karin Smyth MP Cllr.Tony.Dyer@bristol.gov.uk Stay safe Facebook: Dr Liam Fox MP By email: karin.smyth.mp@ Christine Townsend Green, Ruth x By post: parliament.uk Southville By phone: The Rt Hon Dr Liam FoxMP, MP,House Houseofof Commons, By post: Karin Smyth 07584183843 By email: PS: Please send in your news and views to London, SW1A 0AA SW1A 0AA Commons, London, Cllr.Christine.Townsend@bristol. editor@longashtonandfailandvoice.co.uk Constituency office: High Street, Nailsea, BS48 1AW By phone: 0117 95371 3575 gov.uk Christopher Davies Knowle In person: Call the above number My Community Party. Email: Cllr. for Councillor an appointment Post: (all councillors) Christopher.Davies@bristol.gov.uk My councillor? c/o Town Weston-super-Mare, BS23Phone: 1UJ 07826917714 Post: (all Hall, councillors) City Hall, Gary Hopkins Knowle College Green, Bristol BS1 5TR. Cllr Stuart McQuillan Long Ashton Community Party. Email: Fitzjohn Green,–Bedminster May 2022 southbristolvoice southbritolvoice 4T:Tessa Cllr.Gary.Hopkins@bristol.gov.uk 51207584182801 391 By07866 phone: By email: E:Cllr.Tessa.Fitzjohn@bristol.gov.uk stuart.mcquillan@n-somerset.gov.uk Phone: 07977 512159 When you mention The Voice Ed Plowden Green, Windmill Hill HOW DO I GET IN TOUCH WITH ...

Mark Bradshaw Labour, Phone: 07584184577 By email: Cllr Ashley Cartman – Long Ashton Bedminster.

By email: Cllr.mark.

My MP? Karin Smyth MP Cllr.Tony.Dyer@bristol.gov.uk Cllr.Ed.Plowden@bristol.gov.uk T:bradshaw@bristol.gov.uk 07904 188 187 Lisa Stone Green, Windmill Hill By email: karin.smyth.mp@ Christine Townsend Green, E:Byashley.cartman@n-somerset.gov.uk phone: 0117 353 3160 Phone: 07584186535 parliament.uk Southville By phone: Tony Dyer Green, Southville By email: By post: Karin Smyth MP, House of 07584183843 By email: Cllr Bridget Petty – Backwell By phone: 07584182862 By email: Cllr.Lisa.Stone@bristol.gov.uk Commons, London, SW1A 0AA Cllr.Christine.Townsend@bristol.

T: 07935 282 129 By phone: 0117 953 3575 gov.uk E: bridget.petty@n-somerset.gov.uk Christopher Davies Knowle In person: Call the above number USEFUL NUMBERS Community Party. Email: Cllr. issues Ruth Useful numbers Bristol CitySales Council 0117 922 2300 for an appointment Drury Director & Publisher Housing benefit Christopher.Davies@bristol.gov.uk My councillor? mplaint 07590 North Somerset Council 01934 888 888 www.bristol.gov.uk 0117 922 2000 Social services 0117 922 2900 527664 Phone: 07826917714 Post: (all councillors) City Hall, etails North Somerset Council – emergencies outside of office hours Waste, roads 0117 922 2100 Police Inquiries 101 Emergency 999 ruth@longashtonandfailandvoice.co.uk Gary Hopkins Knowle College Green, Bristol BS1 5TR. 01934 622 Pests, dog669 wardens Jane Williams Editor 0117 922 2500 Community Party. Email: Tessa Fitzjohn Green, Bedminster Police Inquiries 999 Council tax 0117 998 01179112 922 Emergency 2900 news@longashtonandfailandvoice.co.uk Cllr.Gary.Hopkins@bristol.gov.uk w) or can By phone: 07584182801 By email: Phone: 07977 512159 .uk or by Follow us on social media: Cllr.Tessa.Fitzjohn@bristol.gov.uk Ed Plowden Green, Windmill Hill 527664. Next month’s deadline for Mark Bradshaw Labour, Phone: 07584184577 By email: Bedminster.

By email: Cllr.mark. editorial and advertising Cllr.Ed.Plowden@bristol.gov.uk d) and bradshaw@bristol.gov.uk Lisa Stone Green, Windmill Hill is By phone: 0117 353 3160 Phone: 07584186535 Tony Dyer Green, Southville By email: The publisher welcomes contributions from readers. Such submissions are subject to being By phone: 07584182862 By email: Cllr.Lisa.Stone@bristol.gov.uk edited, distributed and displayed in any media or medium, or any form, format or forum now Tel: 011796

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November 2023

3

n NEWS

Epic plans submitted NORTH Somerset Council has received a planning application from Epic Systems Corporation (Epic) to build a new campus and corporate headquarters on 90 acres of high value green belt land at the eastern end of Long Ashton.

The application was not available to view before we went to print, but it should be live soon on the North Somerset Council website. Residents are encouraged to respond online to the council.

To ensure residents are given enough information on what is a substantial and complex development that will change the character of Long Ashton and affect others in South Bristol, Dundry and elsewhere, Long Ashton Parish Council is hosting an open meeting on Saturday 11 November (see below, right).

In summary, the proposed land for development forms a triangle with the main A370 on the west side, the mainline BristolTaunton railway on the south side and includes land on either side of the South Bristol Link Road on the northeast side, with

Ashton Vale’s industrial estate in the far east corner.

When we spoke to Epic earlier this year, a spokesperson told us that Epic plans to “secure planning permission to build offices for its UK and Europe operations, including a canteen and meeting facilities. Epic projects to employ 400-500 people in the near term [and] around 2,000 on-site employees in the long-term”.

Of the proposed land acquisition, Epic said it would be building on just under 10% with the remainder being “a mix of landscaped and naturalised green space which will be open to the public”.

Commenting at the time, councillor Stuart McQuillan said: “The land concerned is classed as green belt and was not included in the North Somerset draft local plan due to its value in terms of the purposes of green belt (resisting urban sprawl, preventing urban areas merging, safeguarding the countryside, maintaining the character of rural villages).

Site plan of Epic’s proposed development “Epic therefore needs to demonstrate that the benefits of its proposal outweigh any harm to the green belt to gain planning consent via the ‘very special circumstances’ provision in planning policy.” (See Stuart’s latest comments on this on p15.)

While fellow councillor Ashley Cartman said at the time: “…my priority is to maintain the green space around the village and to prevent the sprawl of Bristol. Our identity as a village is important and we need to preserve it”.

In his comment on page 15, Ashley says he is “very concerned about filling in the ‘strategic gap’ between Long Ashton and Bristol”.

As well as the fear of losing the green belt land, and the impact of this to the village, concerns include: current and future road congestion; the risk of flooding; keeping public access to the land; the fear of further development; and the impact on biodiversity.

(See LANCE Trust’s column on page 11 for more on the latter.)

n LONG ASHTON PARISH COUNCIL UPDATE

Epic: make your views known EPIC is a multi-national software company in the healthcare sector that has its global headquarters in Wisconsin, USA. The company currently employs circa 350 people in various office space within Bristol but is expecting growth over the next few years.

Epic wants to bring all its UKbased staff together in one location and its preferred destination is the land to the south west of the Long Ashton Park & Ride, between the A370, the South Bristol Link Road and the railway line. The land has been owned by Ashton Park Ltd (Taylor Wimpey) since 2001, is currently tenanted by Parsonage Farm and is green belt land.

The planning application was submitted to North Somerset Council on 29 September. It takes a few weeks for it to be accepted and registered, so there is no reference

to give as yet. The Parish Council encourages all residents to view the application when it is made available and make their views known via the North Somerset Council website.

The Parish Council is also obliged to officially comment on the application on behalf of the whole parish, and we want to make sure that we have a true picture of the majority of residents’ opinions.

Such a large development will have a major impact on Long Ashton and we all need to understand that impact and what the potential advantages or disadvantages could be to us.

We are asking every household in the village to vote YES or NO as to whether you support the development or not.

You will soon receive a leaflet giving you more details on how to vote.

Open meeting re Epic proposed development 11 November, 2.30pm, LA Community Centre We understand that a planning application is a complicated document, so the Parish Council has decided to hold an open meeting in the Village Hall, Long Ashton Community Centre, so that residents can get more information and ask questions.

Our local MP, Dr Liam Fox MP, a green belt supporter, and representatives of Epic will be present to answer questions. The Parish Council’s independent planning consultant will also be present. There will be a chance for an informal question and answer session with the independent consultant afterwards.

Ultimately, it will be up to North Somerset Council to decide if the planning application will be accepted and that could be in early 2024 or later in the spring, since the application is both large and complex.

Please note that parking at the Community Centre will be extremely limited, so please make every effort to walk, cycle or use public transport to attend. We look forward to seeing you on 11 November.

Send in your news & views... Contact us at: editor@longashtonandfailandvoice.co.uk

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November 2023

Get both your FLU & COVID JABS TODAY! BEDMINSTER Pharmacy is providing both the COVID and flu vaccines to protect people in our community who are most at risk against COVID and flu this winter, rolled out earlier than planned because of the emergence of a new COVID variant.

You can have both jabs together as we know it is safe and saves you time. Yep, a 2-for-1 as they say… Get protected TODAY! The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) says limited information about the new variant BA.2.86 is available. Still, we know it has many mutations and has appeared in several countries.

Anyone over 65, older adult care home residents and immunosuppressed people are being asked to receive jabs with the plan to provide to as many eligible people as soon as possible.

The NHS will contact you if you are eligible to book, but you can also

check on the NHS website. Alongside those aged over 65 years, eligible groups include: • Anyone aged six months to 64 years in a clinical risk group.

ADVICE FROM A PHARMACIST

• Frontline health and social care workers.

with Ade Williams

• Anyone aged 12 to 64 years who lives in the same house as people with weakened immune systems.

• People aged 12 to 64 who are household contacts of people with weakened immune systems.

• People aged 16 to 64 who are carers and staff working in care homes for older adults.

How do you book? You can book your jabs through the NHS website, the NHS app or by calling 119. Provide

our postcode BS3 1BN to access our lists. We have appointments at various times to make it convenient to attend.

Remember, that across the UK, by May 2023, nearly 176 million COVID vaccines had been given.

We will also be offering walk-in appointments for both jabs.

Although free NHS flu jabs are no longer available to those aged over 50 years not in the at-risk groups, Bedminster Pharmacy has now rolled

out an affordable private service.

The winter months can be a particular testing time for the NHS but, more importantly, for people in our community who need care. Our aim will always be to protect the most vulnerable and facilitate timely access for all.

So, do book in and get your jab as soon as possible. Any questions? Then please do give us a call on: 0117 985 3388.

OVER 65? Come In And Get Your FREE NHS Flu Jab Today!!

NO APPOINTMENT REQUIRED!!

Over 50

Asthmatic/COPD

Long term heart condition

Diabetes

Cancer and their carer

Pregnant Women

Hospice/Social Worker

Parkinson’s Disease/Stroke

Liver & Kidney Disease

Contact us for advice & information:

Bedminster Pharmacy, 4-6 Cannon Street, Bristol BS3 1BN

Appointment & Enquiry: 0117 9853388 Provided by NHS professionals in your local pharmacy

COVID JABS AVAILABLE To advertise, contact Ruth on 07590 527 664 or email ruth@longashtonandfailandvoice.co.uk

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November 2023

5

n NEWS

Mendip Hills ‘Super’ National Nature Reserve launched From page 1 and Avon Wildlife Trusts, Butterfly Conservation, the Woodland Trust and the South West Heritage Trust, who are all working in partnership to manage the NNR with a shared objective for nature recovery.

Together, the organisations have ambitious plans to recover nature in the Mendips.

The Mendip Hills is a vibrant landscape of steep limestone slopes, traditional wildflower grasslands, ancient wooded combes, spectacular gorges and rocky outcrops with stunning views and a rich array of wildlife and history.

The NNR brings together the existing Ebbor Gorge and Rodney Stoke National Nature Reserves, along with 29 nature-rich sites, many of which are Sites of Special Scientific Interest, and the Mendip Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty area. The latter stretches from woodlands in England’s smallest city of Wells, across the southern Mendip slopes and plateau and reaching right out to Brean Down in the Severn Estuary, bringing greater access to nature for local people

and the thousands of visitors who flock to the area each year.

Joining up 1,410ha of land managed for nature conservation, the NNR links ecologically important sites along the popular walking route of the Mendip Way and will bring in more than 400 hectares of non-SSSI land that will be managed with nature conservation as the primary purpose.

Nine organisations will work in partnership on the venture to improve collaboration for wildlife and geology. This partnership will be at the heart of nature recovery in the Mendip Hills. It will enable land managers to work together to maximise the benefits for nature, science and people, improving access and creating more opportunities to connect with the natural world.

The accolade of National Nature Reserve declaration confirms the national importance of a nature reserve, contributing to the ever-increasing area of England in which nature conservation is the primary purpose of land management and will be in perpetuity.

Multi-party National Nature

Reserves such as Mendip are increasing in number, bringing together the skills, knowledge and long-term commitments of different organisations to deliver the three purposes of the designation: nature conservation, environmental science and public access, enjoyment and engagement.

Tony Juniper, chair of Natural England, said: “[This] is a huge step for nature recovery, not just in Somerset and the West of England, but the country as a whole. This treasure trove of ancient woodlands, rich wildflower grasslands and stunning geology has national importance due to its habitats and sustains a huge variety of wildlife from birds to small mammals and from rare butterflies to plants found only here.

“Working with partners to create this new National Nature Reserve will be a step along the road of enhancing the biodiversity of the Mendip Hills making it a bigger, better and more joined up place for wildlife to thrive. It also means this area is recognised for its importance to nature and people, where

the local community has many opportunities to connect with nature, history and the local heritage.”

Environment minister Rebecca Pow MP said: “Somerset is blessed with an exceptional range of habitats and an enviable host of wildlife. It’s fitting to see the creation of a major National Nature Reserve on the Mendips – the second in two years in our county that will support our ambitious plans to halt and reverse nature’s decline, as set out in our Environmental Improvement Plan.

“The new Mendip National Nature Reserve will support wildlife corridors to benefit many of the wildlife species that inhabit this area – from the bats that roost in the iconic caves to the Hazel Dormice that live in the fields and woodlands. Much of this reserve is also easily accessible along the Mendip Way, so can be enjoyed by visitors and locals alike. Having grown up on a Somerset farm in the lee of the Mendip Hills, I have always known this area was special and I am delighted this has been recognised.”

Local resident completes ultramarathon for charity LAST month we reported on local resident and Rotarian Phred Steer who was about to attempt a gruelling three-day ultramarathon to raise vital funds for both The Grand Appeal and Birdwell School.

Phred and friend Lee completed the challenge running, scrambling and crawling over 120km along the Atlantic Coast from Padstow to Land’s End. “It was a bit warm for October, so not the best for this challenge, but we did it! It took around 6.5 hours on days one and two and a massive 9.15 hours on Sunday,” said Phred. His family and fellow Truro Rotarian were waiting, cheering at the finish line.

Phred said of his motivation to complete this huge challenge: “We did this not only to raise awareness of The Grand Appeal but also to raise vital funds for this Bristol-based Children’s Hospital charity who supports sick children and their families across the South West, South

Congratulations to Phred and friend Lee on finishing a three-day ultramarathon raising vital funds for charity Wales and beyond. It was also to kickstart funds for an all-weather sports surface at Birdwell School which will help kids keep active and enable them to join clubs outside school.

“We are well on our way, so

thanks to all so far but please keep funds coming.”

As we went to print, Phred had reached over 50% of his £4,750 The Grand Appeal target and 28% of his Birdwell School target.

If you would like to donate, please go to: The Grand Appeal https://bit.ly/3rUTMbS Birdwell School https://bit.ly/3Lo1B0e

Send in your news & views... Contact us at: editor@longashtonandfailandvoice.co.uk

6

longashton&failandvoice

November 2023

n LOCAL HERO

A tribute to John Sullivan Long Ashton’s Greatest Cricketer

By David Milne WILLOW (my dog) and I have taken our walk today to the cricket club situated along Yanley Lane. It is autumn now and the new season could not be further away. It is a peaceful setting and if you sit quietly for a while, you can feel the spirits of those who have played here over the long years, a fine body of men who have represented the village of Long Ashton at the noble game of cricket.

This summer, Long Ashton lost the finest cricketer that has ever represented the club. He was among some great names, too: Chris Broad (father of recently retired England bowler Stuart) represented the club before playing 25 tests for England; and Shane Warne once toured with the club to Cornwall before representing Australia.

But none can come close to matching the career of John Patrick Sullivan who played out some of his finest days at Yanley Lane over many years.

If you look at the honours board in the pavilion, you will see his name as captain of the club from 1973 to 1979, then a year’s break before another long stint from 1981 to 1989, and then a final season as captain in 1991. That, in

1974 he bowled unchanged under a fiercely hot sun and snared eight Lodway wickets for just 39 runs; another report from August 1968 says ‘Sullivan Hits Quick 100’ displaying all the shots in the book in reaching his century in just 100 minutes at the crease; and the most remarkable was the ‘Sullivan Slams 198’. After being put into bat by Chipping Sodbury, John dismantled the bowling in amassing 198 not out including nine sixes and 25 fours. The only reason he failed to score a double hundred was due to a misreading of signals from his teammates in the pavilion and he declared the innings closed.

A hundred in village cricket is a rare thing; a double hundred is virtually unheard of.

Breaking the mould The supremely talented John Sullivan in action itself, is a very fine achievement.

Yet, it does not begin to explain his legendary status in local cricket dating back to the early sixties.

As a keen cricketer, I would often be tasked with arranging fixtures against various teams both near and far. Over the years, the

Long Ashton Cricket Club: captain of LACC, circa mid-1970s, John is bottom row, middle centre

mention of Long Ashton would inevitably conjure up the name of John Sullivan in conversation with would-be opposition and a tale would no doubt unfold of how they had stood in awe as their team’s bowlers huffed and puffed in mounting despair as their best efforts were plundered to all corners of some rustic village cricket ground by John.

I encountered similar tales time after time when in conversation with other local cricketers.

I first met John long after he had retired from the game in the early 2000s. We would meet at the ground on a Saturday morning after he had completed his preparation of the wicket as his role as groundsman before the game that afternoon. In all our conversations about cricket, I had little idea of his status in the game, John being a most modest man.

Yet, some delving into the historical archives will reveal just some of his exploits with both bat and ball. In a pile of yellowing newspaper cuttings, headline after headline reels off some outstanding performances: June

One thing to consider is that the game played then was often on very difficult wet wickets unlike today’s flat strips, and bowlers enjoyed all manner of advantages that today’s counterparts do not.

The game, too, was played in a much more conservative fashion and run-scoring far more sedate than today.

But here is where John broke the mould... Not withstanding his solid defence, a requirement of any opening batsman in the game, his mindset was always to look to attack the bowlers. One can only imagine what opposition bowlers would be thinking when looking at the fixture list during his pomp.

Cricket is largely a game played in the mind and how John’s presence would have loomed large in that of the visiting bowlers. As that long-limbed, lean and lithe opening bowler of promise from some local shire runs in to bowl with a hard, shiny new ball. But somehow the ball now feels soft in the hand, less shiny; the seam less prominent. It’s lost all venom and by the time he reaches his delivery stride to release the ball, the bowler has already wilted.

The first delivery, a decent line, just nipping away a little off the seam, but a fraction overpitched.

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November 2023 In a moment, Sullivan rocks onto his front foot and drills the ball back and beyond whence it came. It scorches across the turf, bouncing back off the boundary; no fielder has time to move. “No need to run for that stroke, John,” as there are murmurs of approval from team mates in the pavilion who have seen this all before. The bowler walks back to his mark, a little older, wiser perhaps and the only certainty in his mind is that it’s going to be a long, largely fruitless afternoon.

John at Gloucestershire County Ground in 2007 watching England vs India

Greatest triumph

John’s greatest triumph was to lead his side to the Bristol & District League Senior Division Trophy in the sun-drenched summer of 1976. His weight of runs that season along with able support from bowlers Cliff Moss and Jeff Bridle was the overwhelming reason behind their success. In 16 matches, he passed 50 no less than 10 times and had a top score of 114.

Out of the 2,329 runs scored by Long Ashton that season, John off his own bat scored over 40% of those runs at an average of almost

80. He only just fell short of an incredible 1,000 league runs. He also opened the bowling chipping in with the odd wicket and bowling miserly spells. To this day, this remains Long Ashton’s only Senior Division league win.

In recent years, I would seek out John in the Miners Rest enjoying a cider and would occasionally manage to tease out of him something from his cricketing past. He had a lengthy spell with Gloucestershire, making his firstclass debut in 1968 and played

just 23 matches for his county up until 1977. A modest return for such a talented player, perhaps he was missing the single-minded determination of his teammate Chris Broad, who resolutely refused to bat anywhere in the order but as opener; John was happy to bat wherever.

In my continued curiosity, I delved deeper into the available wealth of old scorecards found on the kind of website reserved for only the most serious students of the game. At one such game

7 played at Bishops Cleeve on 20 August 1967, John turned out for Gloucestershire CC against the International Cavaliers. This was a prelude to the John Player League which started in 1969.

These friendly matches played on a Sunday often to packed crowds were occasionally televised.

The Cavaliers were a team like the Harlem Globetrotters of cricket and featured some of the greatest players of the age. The Cavaliers that day featured such luminaries of the game as Clive Lloyd, Tom Graveney, Sadiq Mohammed, Lance Gibbs and Brian Statham.

John returned tidy figures of one wicket for seven having cleaned up West Indian great Lance Gibbs. Come his turn to bat he was bowled for a duck by a chap named Sobers – Sir Garfield Sobers, no less.

It took me a while before I could tease any titbits from John’s cricket career, such was his aversion to talking of his old exploits, and yet he had played with and against the finest players of his age. I liked him a lot and he loved his cricket. I am proud to say I knew him.

Send in your news & views... Contact us at: editor@longashtonandfailandvoice.co.uk

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8

November 2023

n LOCAL TRANSPORT

10 bus improvement projects NORTH Somerset Council has shared its next round of plans across the region for 10 government-funded Bus Service Improvement Plan (BSIP) projects along key routes where buses are regularly delayed.

The projects aim to reduce bus delays and increase reliability of services along the A38, A370, A369 and through Weston-super-Mare and Clevedon towns. The areas are: A38 Churchill Junction Lime Kiln Roundabout A370 and Weston-super-Mare Backwell A370/B3440 slip road Bristol Road/Walford Avenue/Queensway Worle/Worle High Street A369 Rownham Hill Clevedon B3133 Southern Way/Central Way roundabout Ettlingen Way roundabout Tickenham Road/Northern Way roundabout

Plans will focus on creating sustainable bus priority infrastructure schemes that make small time savings in each location that together add up to significant impacts resulting in creating self-sustaining bus services, said the council.

Cllr Hannah Young, executive member for highways and transport at North Somerset Council, said: “… we want to make buses quicker, more reliable, and more frequent, which is what people tell us they need to make buses an attractive option. In turn, that

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means that in two years’ time, when the Bus Service Improvement Plan (BSIP) money for subsidising bus services temporarily has been spent, we don’t see bus operators cancel vital services that the community relies on.

“Minutes saves buses. If we’re able to save journey minutes from each individual scheme, the knock-on effect will be efficiencies that significantly reduce the longterm bus service operating costs along whole corridors. This means more buses and fewer cancellations of routes or service frequencies in two years’ time.

“We will now start engaging with local councillors, residents and businesses to work together to create plans for the schemes that result in looking to create improved and sustainable services across North Somerset.”

The Bus Service Improvement Plan (BSIP) is the council’s major investment programme in partnership with the West of England Combined Authority. The aim is to improve the quality and provision of bus services to encourage less use of private cars – to make North Somerset a greener place to live.

For more information on the Bus Improvement Service Plan and its schemes, go to: https://bit.ly/3QjwEwP

Incontinence Post natal checks Return to exercise Joint muscle and nerve pain Sports injuries Chronic pain Paediatric problems Vestibular rehab Got a niggle?

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Had pain for a long time?

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Book today - online www.bristolphysio.com or call 0117 9237 506 To advertise, contact Ruth on 07590 527 664 or email ruth@longashtonandfailandvoice.co.uk

November 2023

n LOCAL SCHOOLS

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Let your light shine 1

‘Let your light shine’ is the Northleaze Primary School’s vision for all pupils, staff and our school community.

All classes have created some beautiful artwork this term which not only shows a range of skills and materials but also one of the ways in which our pupils can express themselves whilst learning about a specific area of the curriculum. Here we showcase just some of the pieces which are brightening corridors in the school...

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[1] Year 6 used the art therapy technique of neurographic drawing to create stunning pieces. [2] Year 5 have been exploring the rise of Ancient Benin and created miniature Benin bronzes. [3 & 4] Years 4 and 5 created solar system artwork and models to complement their Space week learning. [5] Year 3 explored our school vision and thought about the symbol of the lit candle, using oil pastels.

Fireworks: how to keep your pets safe The RSPCA recommends the following measures for dogs: • Walk your dog during daylight hours to avoid times when fireworks are likely to be set off.

• Move your dog to a safe space before fireworks begin. Provide toys and other things they enjoy in the safe space.

• Make sure there are things for you to do, too, so your dog isn’t left alone.

• Close windows and curtains to muffle the sound of fireworks. Black out your doggy safe space, so they can’t see any flashes outside.

• Put on some music or TV to mask the firework sounds.

• Ignore the firework noises. Play with a toy to see if your dog wants to join in, but don’t force them to play.

How to help cats who are afraid of fireworks • Provide hiding places in your home, eg under furniture or a quiet corner.

• Don’t stress your cat by trying to tempt them out. Leave them until they’re ready.

• Keep them in to avoid them becoming stressed.

• Microchip your cats in case they’re startled and escape outside.

The RSPCA is also calling for firework control zones to protect vulnerable individuals and animals, namely fireworks must be entirely prohibited near: horses’ habitats; sensitive wildlife areas; farms; animal centres; and zoos. It is also campaigning for maximum noise levels to be reduced: “The maximum permitted noise level for public sale of fireworks must be reduced from 120dB to 90dB, in line with international standards, to mitigate noise pollution and protect animals and individuals.”

For more information, go to: www.rspca.org.uk

Send in your news & views... Contact us at: editor@longashtonandfailandvoice.co.uk

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n FACEBOOK POST OF THE MONTH

November 2023

n LOCAL SCHOOLS

A message of thanks from Birdwell School A HUGE ‘thank you’ to families and staff at Birdwell School in Long Ashton who have been generously donating food and toiletries for Clevedon District Food Bank. Clevedon District Food Bank serves Clevedon, Nailsea, Portishead, Yatton and surrounding areas, with the aim of ensuring no one in our local community goes hungry.

Paul Sainsbury, headteacher of

Birdwell School, said: “We are delighted to support this charity which relies heavily on the local community for donations, volunteering and finances. We have been overwhelmed with the response from our school community and I know the charity will be similarly pleased.”

See www.clevedondistrict. foodbank.org.uk/ to find out how you can help.

THIS caught our eye – posted by Martin Ashford, who comments: “Saw this on a page from where we used to live (Positively Marlow FB). Apparently, the original dates from 1912. Just needs updating to include Virgin, otherwise things clearly haven’t changed!”

If a post catches your eye, please email the link to us at: editor@longashtonandfailandvoice.co.uk

n ADVERTORIAL

Creating Impact with Paint – Colour Drenching

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Whether you are looking to update one room or are embarking on a full house renovation or redesign, we are able to offer our colour-focused expertise.

There are many ways of using colour to introduce interest to your interiors scheme, and one of the most current on-trend techniques is colour drenching.

Colour drenching simply means using one paint colour on all the interiors surfaces of a room. This can include walls, ceilings, skirtings, mouldings, doors, radiators, window frames and sills. It is a tonal décor option, where light and dark shades of the same colour can be used to great effect.

Areas and features of a room can be highlighted and differentiated, not only with tone, but also by using a variety of different paint finishes, textures or sheens. The technique can be used in any style and era of property and is particularly useful in spaces otherwise lacking architectural detail.

Paint is the quickest and most cost-effective interiors style solution. By colour drenching a smaller room in a deep or intense colour, it’s possible to make that

Graham and Brown image illustrating tonal decorating/ colour drencing space feel cosy and cocoon-like.

The possibilities are endless, but the most important thing is to choose a colour you really love, as you will be surrounded by it!

At K Interiors, we are all about colour, so if you would love to brighten your world by introducing colour to your home, but are uncertain how to start, a great first step could be one of our ‘Inspire’ sessions.

Visit our newly updated website for further details: k-interiors. co.uk

To advertise, contact Ruth on 07590 527 664 or email ruth@longashtonandfailandvoice.co.uk

November 2023

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n OPINION

The impact of lost green belt on biodiversity By the LANCE Trust DO YOU love nature? Most of us would say ‘yes’. And we’re lucky.

Long Ashton & Failand nestle within the green belt protected from the urban sprawl of Bristol by a thin ribbon of green at the eastern end of Long Ashton.

We benefit from the sight of buzzards and peregrines flying overhead from their nesting sites in Ashton Court and the Avon Gorge.

But even though some of us can hear the call of barn and tawny owls at night, nature here is in trouble with cuckoos, kestrels, yellowhammers and many other species declining in number or vanishing altogether.

And we’re not alone. Over the last 20 years, Britain has experienced a huge decline in species and we now hold the grim record of the most nature-depleted country in the G7.

Further afield, in 2019, the United Nations reported that nature is declining globally at rates unprecedented in human history with the rate of species extinctions accelerating resulting in grave impacts on people around the world. Yet, the report also told

us that it’s not too late to make a difference but only that we have to start now at every level from local to global.

So, what’s happened since then?

Four years later, our green belt is under pressure from development like never before. For some in the neighbourhood, the green belt is seen as an impediment to growth but unregulated economic growth drives climate change... 2023 has seen earthquakes, wildfires, droughts and floods with marine and air temperatures breaking records with frightening and monotonous regularity.

In the years to come, no one will be safe from the adverse impacts of climate change.

Yet, in the same year as the United Nations’ report, the government’s own scientist, Prof Dieter Helm, tasked with reviewing the purposes of the green belt, came up with a solution: maintain and enhance the green belt.

And in terms of biodiversity, nature recovery can easily be encouraged on green belt land since it’s a connected landscape.

This means that wildlife vital to create resilient ecosystems in the face of climate change can

Image Courtesy of Amanda Barrett, LANCE Trust easily be established. Does this benefit people? The answer is a resounding ‘yes’.

A closer relationship with nature has many proven benefits for us all. And in Dieter Helm’s own words, “Instead of yet more urban sprawl, imagine a green belt with lots of natural capital, a much more environmentally benign agriculture, much greater public access, woodlands located next to people, so it could fulfil not only the original purpose of limiting

the sprawl but also provide the lungs of the cities, the fresh air for children to play in, and the recreational benefits which are crucial to health and wellbeing.”

So, to help maintain and increase biodiversity in Long Ashton, Failand and beyond, please join our mailing list and get involved in our projects for 2023/4.

Please visit our website for more information at: www.lancetrust.org

The Long Ashton Neighbourhood Plan explained NINTEY-FIVE per cent of respondents voted to retain the Green Belt in the recent consultation for Long Ashton & Leigh Woods Neighbourhood Development Plan.

The Long Ashton Neighbourhood Plan (2013-2033) had passed a referendum with a vote of 94.8% in favour of using the plan (https://bit.ly/495YHaG). The referendum was held on 24 September 2015 and had a turnout of 33.6%.

In this plan, the prime commitment was that: Long Ashton develops as a sustainable community retaining its semi-rural, separate, village character while promoting local business, community facilities and sustainable energy.

So, in essence, retaining the green belt to ensure that there was no urban sprawl from either South Bristol or in the west of the village with no development creeping towards Flax Bourton or Gatcombe and Barrow Gurney. In addition, the importance of Hanging Hill Wood and Ashton Court was recognised as was the belief that the closed landfill site at Yanley would be unsuitable for development.

Share your news... Contact us at: editor@longashtonandfailandvoice.co.uk

Birdwell School Open Days Preschool tours

Whole school tours

Tues 31 Oct, 4pm Thur 18 Jan, 4pm Mon 11 Mar, 4pm Tue 30 Apr, 4pm

Thur 5 Oct, 2pm Thur 19 Oct, 10am Thur Nov 16, 2pm Thur Nov 30, 10am

An opportunity to meet our team, visit our classrooms & explore our extensive outdoor areas

www.BirdwellSchool.co.uk Hollis Close, Long Ashton BS41 9AZ Tours must be booked in advance by contacting: office@BirdwellSchool.co.uk | 01275 392496

November 2023

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n NEWS

Community enjoys moonlight charity walk More than 80 people took part in an emotional night-time charity walk in Clevedon on 7 October.

CHILDREN’S Hospice South West’s (CHSW) Moonlight Memory Walk took place under clear skies of Salthouse Fields, Clevedon. The 4K walk featured the scenic walk along Clevedon seafront and onto Clevedon Pier with poignant places to stop and remember loved ones.

Participants were able to stop and write their memories of those whom they have loved and lost, which featured on a memory tree at the halfway point at the end of Clevedon Pier accompanied by a local acoustic singer.

Beforehand, participants were able to wear hand-written dedications to loved ones and joined a special memory ceremony, enjoying music from local choir Partsong and a talk from Clare Toller, a bereaved mum who was supported by the hospice when her son Grayson

An emotional night-time walk for Children’s Hospice South West died at just 10 weeks old.

Tamara Downes, head of fundraising for CHSW, said: “We were overwhelmed with the response we had for our first Moonlight Memory Walk.

It was a truly memorable night for our bereaved families and

n NEWS FROM THE COUNCILLORS THE planning application from Epic Healthcare to build its European HQ on local green belt land (at the Bristol end of the Long Ashton bypass) has now been received by North Somerset Council.

The application is currently being reviewed and should be available on the council’s website shortly. However, we do not expect a decision before early spring next year, at the earliest.

Councillor Ashley This is a huge and complicated issue Cartman for us all to consider. Nobody wants a Liberal Democrats large development nearby, and I am very concerned about the filling in of the ‘strategic gap’ between Long Ashton and Bristol. After all, green belt is supposed to stop the sprawl of cities like Bristol. However, as a country we do need high-quality jobs and if we were all to say no, then we could all end up with nothing.

The added complication is that with a change of government expected next year, the green belt may be re-assessed for housing. The Labour leadership has been very clear that it will be re-assessing green belt land across the UK to identify new housing sites.

In our modern age, we all want simple answers to complicated questions. The reality is that this is a complicated issue with no easy answers. Our power as a community to stop this application is limited, but that is not to say we are without influence.

Over the coming few weeks, I will continue to talk to as many people as possible to help formulate our opinion and response.

T: 07904 188 187 E: ashley.cartman@n-somerset.gov.uk

some of our care team staff and supporters who were remembering their loved ones.

“We can’t wait to make it bigger and better next year and hope everyone will get involved and be part of this developing event.”

Santas on the Run SANTAS on the Run will take place at Charlton Farm on Sunday 3 December.

The event usually attracts hundreds of participants of all ages and raises thousands for CHSW and its Charlton Farm children’s hospice.

You can walk, jog or run a 2km route around the grounds of Charlton Farm while dressed in any festive outfit you wish along with lots of festive surprises along the way.

There will be fancy dress competitions on the day so everyone is encouraged to get as creative as possible with their costumes.

Early bird tickets are on sale until Thursday 2 November, priced £9.60 per adult, £4.80 per child and under 3s go free. Simply visit www.chsw.org.uk/ santas to book your place.

THIS month I make sure all residents of Long Ashton are aware that the planning application for the Epic healthcare development has been received by North Somerset Council.

As I write, this it is not yet available for comment as it is going through various validation checks, but soon it will be available for review and comment by all residents and stakeholders.

Councillor Stuart As residents consider this McQuillan (he/him) development, I would like to remind them of a few facts concerning Green Party the proposed location of this development.

The land is high value green belt land. It is high value as it significantly contributes to the purposes of the green belt outlined in National Planning Policy Framework (openness, preventing settlements merging, encroachment into the countryside, historic character of settlements). It was specifically excluded from the allocation of housing in the early draft of the new North Somerset plan for this reason.

Furthermore, should the development go forward, the land would remain green belt, but areas built upon would become brownfield (land previously built upon) and therefore easier to gain consent for development on in the future.

It would also potentially embolden other developers who would want to develop lower value (but still important) green belt land such as around the Woodspring Golf Course. Please bear this in mind as you review the application, which is likely to be determined in the spring.

Finally, I would like to draw your attention to an open meeting on the Epic development scheduled for 11 November, 2:30pm in the community centre. Epic Healthcare and your elected representatives will be there to hear your views and answer questions. Please come along.

T: 07866 512 391 E: stuart.mcquillan@n-somerset.gov.uk

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November 2023

n NEWS

Home Energy Advice Helpline launches A NEW energy advice line offers free, impartial advice to all households in North Somerset. It has been provided by the Centre for Sustainable Energy (CSE) as part of North Somerset Council’s allocation of the government’s UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF).

CSE is a national charity supporting people and organisations across the UK to tackle the climate emergency and to help end the suffering caused by cold homes.

Working to provide long-term fixes, CSE shares knowledge that can help improve energy efficiency. CSE works with communities to educate people about energy whilst building local improvements.

Its services help thousands of people to reduce their bills, access benefits and undertake work to insulate their homes.

Supporting those who are in – or at risk of – fuel poverty to cut their carbon emissions, reduces financial stress and helps improve people’s mental and physical wellbeing.

The advice line provides advice and support covering various topics, including: • Advice on grants, discounts and other offers

• Draught proofing support.

• Helping those who are having trouble with understanding the way their energy bills work.

• Supporting people with general supplier issues.

that are available to help clients make energy-saving improvements.

• Advice on suitable measures and installations which would improve energy efficiency.

• Checking eligibility for grants and referring clients to installers that will be able to undertake the work under grant funding.

• Wider advice on how people can keep their home warmer and how they can save some money on their bills, often through energy saving tips and tricks.

For advice, call 0800 082 2234 between 10am and 4pm on weekdays or email home.energy@cse.org.uk Cora Paine, project manager from the Centre for Sustainable Energy, said: “More people than ever are struggling with their energy bills and the rising cost of living. Installing insulation or upgrading your heating can really help lower your energy costs.

“The Home Energy Team is working with North Somerset Council to support people with energy advice so they can cut their bills and stay warmer and safer at home.

“We can help you access funding and grants, as well as tailored energy advice and support with bills. We give people the support they need.”

North Somerset Council joins call for fairer energy tariff NORTH Somerset Council is joining forces with a group of consumer organisations and charities to ask for urgent action to introduce a social tariff for energy – something that is desperately needed by millions of struggling households in the UK. As winter approaches and temperatures drop, the most vulnerable households find themselves in fuel poverty, unable to pay fuel bills and making desperate choices between heating and eating.

Councillor Mike Bell, leader of North Somerset Council, said: “Enough is enough. We cannot see our most vulnerable people in North Somerset go through another winter in fuel poverty and risking their health by living in cold homes.

“The government promised to look at options like social tariffs in last year’s Autumn Statement

but we are yet to see anything materialise.

“We are calling on the government to act with urgency and share its plans to protect low-income families from skyhigh fuel bills.”

In the absence of the Energy Bills Support Scheme this winter, households will be facing bills 13% higher than the last, and energy costs are still substantially higher than they were before the cost of living crisis started.

Forecasts show no sign of relief either with the prospects of many more years living in cold homes, rationing energy, and struggling to cook hot meals. As families fall behind on bills, they will be faced with the double-whammy of facing high costs while trying to drag their way out of energy debt.

Councillor Catherine Gibbons, deputy leader of the council and lead member for addressing

Urgent action needed for social energy tariff, says local council the cost of living crisis in North Somerset, added: “This is a long-term problem that requires a long-term solution. While the short-term support for households was welcome last year, it wasn’t targeted to those who needed it the most, and this is what we, and others, are calling on the government to address urgently, before the cold weather sets in and bills spiral.”

North Somerset Council has added its support to an open letter to the prime minister from National Energy Action, Age UK, Citizens Advice, Energy Action Scotland, Fair By Design, Money Saving Expert, and Scope. It is hoped that with such a collective call, urgent action will be taken to enable all households across the UK to be able to stay warm, safe and well this winter.

To advertise, contact Ruth on 07590 527 664 or email ruth@longashtonandfailandvoice.co.uk

November 2023

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n GARDENING

n NEWS

Get ready for winter Icescape to return to Weston THE Tropicana will once again host the festive attraction from Tuesday 7 November 2023 to Sunday 7 January 2024, following a three-year break.

The largest outdoor covered ice rink in the country has space for 400 skaters in each 45-minute skate session. Various sessions will be running throughout the day including the popular Parents and Toddlers, Quiet and Disco sessions. Plus, there will be festive food and drinks stalls.

Councillor Mark Canniford, North Somerset Council’s executive member responsible for placemaking and economy, said: “Icescape is a major attraction… that it’s returning this winter is positive news for the town, North Somerset and our local economy.”

Jamie Dann, Icescape operations director, said: “We can’t wait to see everyone back on the ice having lots of fun with

It’s time to take stock of your gardening successes and challenges, says local gardener Ben Collison

Images courtesy of Icescape family and friends this festive season!”

To find out more, visit www. icescape-tropicana.co.uk

NOVEMBER ushers in subtle yet significant changes in the garden landscape. The crisp air signals the coming of colder times and gardens bring about a unique set of tasks and pleasure for avid gardeners.

The remaining leaves fall and form a carpet beneath the trees, and this forms perfect habitats for insects and animals to forage and nest, so don’t over tidy. You can gather leaves and use them to protect tender plants in the garden and store them to create leaf mulch.

It’s the time when pumpkins and squashes are at their prime, with the last of your crops being harvested and either stored or eaten. Meanwhile, resilient vegetables like brussels sprouts, kale and leeks continue to thrive, providing fresh, homegrown produce well into the winter months.

November is also the month of preparation. It’s the perfect time to sow winterhardy crops such as garlic and broad beans, ensuring an early start for the next growing season. It’s a good time to start planning what you will grow next season in the vegetable garden.

Around this time of year, I start to assess the successes and challenges of the past year, considering what thrived and what needs adjustments. Now is a great time to note where the gaps in borders are and which plants thrive and what struggle. It’s not too late to split hardy perennials such as Asters or Echinops.

As we enter the bare root season for trees, it’s a great time to order and plant trees and shrubs in the garden. Being patient in a garden pays off and when planting trees I usually opt for younger trees as they adapt to the conditions better.

Amidst the rustling leaves and the faint scent of wood smoke in the air, November gardening is about nurturing the present and dreaming of the future.

Happy gardening!

Ben Collison, garden designer, www.collisongardening.co.uk

Free carbon literacy training TO MARK global Carbon Literacy Action Day on Monday 4 December, North Somerset Council is hosting the world’s largest in-person Carbon Literacy training day for local people and businesses, free of charge.

The training usually costs £125 per person, and it was created by the Carbon Literacy Project to improve understanding of the causes and impacts of our everyday greenhouse gas emissions, which must drastically reduce to limit further global temperature rises.

As well as identifying ways everyone can play a part in tackling the climate emergency, the course identifies ways to save energy costs, both at home and at work.

Councillor Annemieke Waite, North Somerset Council’s executive member for climate, said: “We want to create a thriving and sustainable North Somerset,

and we know that education is one of the greatest tools we have when transitioning to become a net zero area.

“If you’re looking for a way to kickstart your journey to net zero, either at home or for your business or organisation, this is your chance to reduce costs, understand the implications of climate change and help make North Somerset a healthier, happier and greener place to live and work.”

Carbon Literacy training will be delivered at the Winter Gardens in Weston-super-Mare for up to 350 delegates, free of charge. The training has been funded through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund and will feature guest speakers from the climate industry.

phone: 07767 444 878 email: collisongardening@gmail.com or www.collisongardening.co.uk

To register your interest, sign up online by Tuesday 31 October at www.n-somerset.gov.uk/ carbonliteracy

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LA Bereavement Support Group DONNA Hartley set up the Long Ashton Bereavement Support Group following her own “catastrophic loss”, so that she could “focus [her] trauma on helping others”.

Said Donna: “We need to change the narrative around grief... we don’t do it at all well in this country.”

The group meets every fortnight and the next meeting is 12 November.

November 2023

n NEWS

Adoption West seeks more adopters MORE people are needed to come forward and adopt. Over the last 18 months, the Adoption West area has experienced fewer people coming forward to adopt which sadly means children will wait even longer.

During the recent National Adoption Week in October, Adoption West celebrated through a short film how adoption has transformed over the decades. Stories are shared of adopted people, highlighting the positive impact it has had on their lives, while recognising the challenges they have also faced along the way. The film brings to life the transformational power of a permanent family home.

You can view the film at www.youtube.com/@ adoptionwest5989 The campaign also seeks to highlight the needs of several groups of children who repeatedly face the longest

n FAILAND VILLAGE HALL NEWS

Apple Day

delays. On average, these children* wait seven months longer to find a permanent home.

• Children over five wait 17 months longer than children under five.

• Children in sibling groups wait 13 months longer than children not in a sibling group.

• Children with a disability wait 10 months longer than children without a disability.

• Black children wait six months longer than the average for all children. * Of the 2,110 children waiting nationally to be adopted in the year 2022/2023, 60% came from groups above Adoption West is the regional

adoption agency for Bath and North East Somerset, Bristol, Gloucestershire, North Somerset, South Gloucestershire, and Wiltshire.

Alison Lewis, service director at Adoption West, said: “At any one time, we are looking for families for 50–60 children. We know adoption is life-changing for both the children and the families and to make this commitment can take people some time, so we want to hear from people who think adoption might be in their future, even if they aren’t quite ready to take the next step.

“We are here to provide you with up-to-date information about the children waiting, what adoption is like today, and the support and training available.”

For more information, call 03303 550 333, email info@ adoptionwest.co.uk or visit www.adoptionwest.co.uk

Spooky Bar Event THE team at the Failand Village Hall bar will be getting spooky this month!

By Liz Garfitt, committee member ON 1 October, the Failand Village Hall hosted its annual Apple Day. Locals gathered and enjoyed a relaxed afternoon together, pressing apples into juice and browsing the stalls of local traders: Wild West Cider, Race Course Farm Honey,

Whitegate Cider, Nailsea Cider, J.Krafts, Touchwood Quirky Crafts and the Wandering Ewe Dairy.

Thank you to all who came along to support and enjoy the event. We look forward to doing it all again this time next year.

Failand Village Hall AGM THE Failand Village Hall is a charitable trust run for the benefit of the local Failand community.

Our Annual General Meeting (AGM) will be on Monday 20 November at 19:30, and is open to all residents of Failand and Lower Failand.

This is an opportunity to hear about what has been achieved this year and to meet (and vote for) the committee. Please feel free to join us. The bar will be open afterwards and, as is now traditional, there will be some free drinks available!

Calling all Failand residents!

Please send us your news and views and details on any not-for-profit club events. Email: editor@longashtonandfailandvoice.co.uk

To advertise, contact Ruth on 07590 527 664 or email ruth@longashtonandfailandvoice.co.uk

Affordable New Carpets and Vinyls for Your Home!

Visit Us! 216 South Liberty Lane, Ashton Vale, Bristol BS3 2TY Call Us! 0117 203 5111 Email Us! sales@bristolcarpetwarehouse.co.uk Open Monday-Friday 9am - 4.30pm

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n WHAT’S ON

Find out what’s happening this November in and around your neighbourhood 26th November Christmas Artisan Craft Fair 10am-4pm. Ashton Court Mansion Bristol BS41 9JN. Bristol Makers and crafters with 40 stalls indoors. Handmade gifts cards artwork, jewellery, soaps candles, knits crochets, textiles, Christmas wreaths and decorations, craft beer, preserves and much more. Café serving teas coffees and cakes £2 entry – under 16s free 27 October There’s A Rang-Tan In My Bedroom & Other Stories…

Tobacco Factory Age Recommendation: 5-11.

Tickets: £11. Venue: Factory Theatre 27 Oct, 2pm; 28 & 29 Oct, 11am & 2pm.

Enjoy a magical mix of puppetry and music as you discover more about our animal friends and what we can do to help – because no one is too small to make a difference.

Pumpkinfest Noah’s Ark Zoo Farm until 5 November. Adult: £24.20; Child: £19.58; Concession: £21.45; under-2s: Free; carer for paying guest with accessibility needs: Free.

Celebrate all things orange with plenty of pumpkin-themed fun.

Adventures in Time & Space 60 Years of Doctor Who Art Exhibition.

Weston Museum, BS23 1PR. Now til 27 January 2024 – FREE. Take a trip through time and visit the largest collection of Doctor Who original and digital art ever shown in one location.

Raquel Blazquez Exhibition Now til 14 November 2023.

10.00am–11.00pm – FREE, in the Snug, Tobacco Factory Raquel Blazquez is a self-taught figurative painter and artist and her paintings are an expression of her inner world, through which she processes her own emotions and trauma. Her mission is to raise conversations about the unspoken topics of mental health, inviting us to accept our full range of emotions as they are.

Wildlife Photographer of the Year 2023 Bristol Museum & Art Gallery Now til 21 Apr 2024 Tickets: from free to £10 from https://pretix.eu/bristolmuseums/ WPotY2023/ Wildlife Photographer of the Year is back at M Shed with a brand new set of extraordinary images.

longashton&failandvoice 28 October Kids’ Halloween Party The Angel Inn 11.30-1.30 with DJ Jools and JoJo face painting PLUS Evening party with Daz from 8pm 29 October Josie Long – Re-Enchantment show Bristol Old Vic Tickets from £18.95 www.seetickets.com A brand-new stand-up show from three-time Edinburgh Comedy Award nominee Josie Long – filled with ‘humanity compassion and some brief political rants’.

30 October Luxmuralis: Force of Nature at Bristol Cathedral On now til 4 November 2023 Bristol Cathedral, College Green, Bristol Tickets 16+: £9.99 https://bit.ly/3Fe6e9z Luxmuralis: Space Voyager at Bristol Cathedral is a spectacular light show which will adorn the historic building in a stunning exploration of creation and the cultural significance of the four elements – from the flaming power of volcanoes to seeing the Earth evolve through historic and artistic imagery. The installation will end in the Nave, immersing visitors in the immensity of the oceans and storms, while sharing great stories linked to Water.

31 October Pretty Woman: The Musical Bristol Hippodrome 31 October – 11 November 2023 Tickets: from £13 + £3.80 transaction fee www.atgtickets.com/bristolhippodrome Starring Amber Davies as Vivian Ward and Ore Oduba as Happy Man/ Mr Thompson and featuring original music and lyrics by Grammy Award winner Bryan Adams and Jim Vallance.

Following record-breaking runs on Broadway and in the West End, as well as on a US tour and in cities around the world, the show is now embarking on a tour of the UK and Ireland.

3 November Bristol Christmas Market Broadmead, Bristol Running til 23 December 2023 It’s that time of year again – enjoy a spot of festive shopping, a bite to eat and a festive drink in the igloos!

8 November Long Ashton Horticultural Society AGM and talk, The Gardens at Tyntesfield. Our AGM and talk will be held at The Jubilee Pavilion, Long Ashton. Doors open 7.15; the AGM starts 7.30pm.

At 8.15pm we have arranged for Paul Evans, the head gardener at

November 2023

Tyntesfield, to give us a brief history of the garden and estate including the garden restoration and discoveries.

Then we will hear their plans for the future. Members free; non-members £5. You will be able to join for only £5 or renew your membership on the night. Come along and join us for a complementary tea or coffee and a mince pie.

Over 16s: £17 Ashton Court Estate Sands supports and promotes research to better understand the causes of baby deaths, improve maternity safety and save babies’ lives. With every step you take, and with every pound you raise, you are helping this charity create a legacy of hope and comfort, showing the world how much every baby is loved.

LOCAL FIREWORK DISPLAYS

12 November MoRun: 1.5k, 5k & 10k Ashton Court, £14 – £26 Join in this family favourite in the Bristol MoRun. With mini 1.5k, 5k, and 10k events on offer, and fancy dress and fake moustaches encouraged, this event is fun for all. Come and support Movember.

3 November Fireworks at Sea 2023 Weston-Super-Mare Tickets: from £12.95 (entry and unlimited rides) Enjoy a spectacular fireworks display from the Grand Pier this bonfire night.

4 November N&B RFC Fireworks Night Nailsea & Backwell Rugby Club, Bristol, BS48 4BY Doors Open at 5:30pm. Fireworks 6:45pm Tickets: £5; family £18 (2x adults and 2x over 5s) Nailsea’s biggest organised fireworks display is back with a bang and promises to be bigger and better than ever!

11 November Fireworks Extravaganza 2023 Puxton Park Admission from 5.30pm and fireworks from 7pm. £12 each per ticket (includes rides, attractions and soft play).

Children under 2 are FREE Hog Roast & BBQ (not included) Bristol Ensemble: Viva Vivaldi by candlelight St George’s, Great George Street, Bristol 7.30pm Tickets from £10 at: https://bit.ly/3PMRcfQ 200 candles will adorn the stage and the Bristol Ensemble along with the Fitzhardinge Consort will perform some of Vivaldi’s greatest works including the stunning Dixit Dominus and concertos for Sopranino Recorder, Two Cellos, Two Trumpets and of course Autumn from the Four Seasons.

10 November Hoptoberfest Craft Beer Festival Propyard, Bristol 10-11 November, 6-11.30pm Tickets: from £38.75 Enjoy your favourite craft beer served in Bavarian steins. Plus DJ set from IDLES & Norman Jay MBE. 11 November Bristol Starlight Walk 2023 Saturday 11 November, 15:45

20 November ANNIE Monday 20 November – Saturday 25 November 2023 Bristol Hippodrome Tickets from £13 + £3.80 transaction fee www.atgtickets.com/venues/bristolhippodrome The smash hit production of the musical ANNIE is coming to Bristol this November, starring Craig Revel Horwood, Elaine C Smith And Jodie Prenger as Miss Hannigan.

25 November Songs for Childhood Tickets: from £11; Age: 4+ Shows at 11am or 3pm Spielman Theatre, Tobacco Factory Raph Clarkson brings his Songs for Childhood project and music from his album This Is how we Grow – encompassing music of play, joy, peace and connection. Expect groovy, jazz-infused interactive songs and heartfelt celebrations and meditations around childhood imagination.

Club Night with legendary local DJs Ben and Pete Long Ashton Community Centre, 8pm. £8 on the door. Bar. Proceeds to LACA.

REGULAR EVENTS

Failand Village Hall The Failand Village Hall is a local community hub set in the North Somerset countryside. We are a large hall with licensed bar, commercial standard kitchen, stage and ample parking. A perfect venue for everything from wedding receptions to yoga classes, pop-up markets and children’s parties. For more information, go to www.failandvillagehall.org.uk Failand Tots Failand Tots meets monthly at the Failand Village Hall and is for parents and grandparents with babies, toddlers and preschool children. £2.50

To advertise, contact Ruth on 07590 527 664 or email ruth@longashtonandfailandvoice.co.uk

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November 2023 per adult (cash). Tea, coffee & biscuits provided. Please bring a mug with a lid and fruit or a snack for your little ones.

Contact: https://m.facebook.com/grou ps/1320318405445072/?ref=share Bristol Inclusive Thrill Seekers https://www.club-bits.com Contact: James Rudge 0758 061 9119 hello@club-bits.com This volunteer-led charity enables people of all abilities and backgrounds to take part in adventure sports. It runs weekly sessions that give people the platform to take part in activities such as climbing, and has a range of volunteers on hand to help.

Mondays Youth Club 18.00-20.30 kathy@epicyour@gmail.com Wednesdays Walking Football at Portishead Town FC is expanding to a Wednesday evening session. If you are an over-50 male or over-40 female and want a bit of exercise, fresh air and make new friends in a fun environment, please contact Martyn on 0730 582 4527 or email dennis19622@hotmail.com Failand Arts & Crafts Group 2.00–4.30pm.

Bring your art, craft or hobby along and

join the group at Failand Village Hall, Oxhouse Lane. £2.50 per visit; first one FREE plus £12 per year (pro rata) from Jan to Dec. Tea/coffee and cake/biscuits included. Occasional demos, members’ skills sharing and chat always welcome.

Please contact Fi Harris at feltbyfi@ gmail.com Long Ashton Westleaze WI First WEDNESDAY in the month, JUBILEE PAVILION, LONG ASHTON. We welcome visitors and are looking for new members to join this friendly group. For details of our next meeting, contact Sally 01275 393591 Sallyjmsterland@gmail.com Cafe@Keedwell 10-12:00 Pop in to Keedwell Church for a coffee and a chat, meet new people or just enjoy a change of scene. Run by volunteers from the community and church. Open every Wednesday morning. Contact office@allsaintsla. org.uk or tel 01275 393109 for more info. We look forward to seeing you.

Youth Club 16.00-18.30. kathy@epicyour@gmail.com

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LAMBS 11.00-13.00. A group for mums with babies to meet and chat. henna.crabb@n-somerset.go.uk Thursdays Youth Club 18.00-20.30 kathy@epicyour@gmail.com Failand Whist Club We are a small club that is looking for new players to join us each week. We meet at Failand Village Hall on Thursday evenings at 7pm. For information, please contact Val on 01275 463263 OR Helen on 01275 392676 or 07837 379076.

Long Ashton Memory Café This free to attend event runs every fourth Thursday monthly at the Jubilee Pavilion. Refreshments are provided. Email: lamemorycafe@gmail. com or tel: Liz Anderson 07967587411 Fridays Warm Lounge 10:00-13:00 Long Ashton Community Centre. Pop in for a cuppa and a chat. info@la-together.org Toddler Group 10.00-12.00. info@la-together.org

n Advice

Bonfire safety tips

NORTH Somerset Council recommends the following for anyone considering a bonfire generally or on Bonfire night: • Tell your neighbours that you are going to have a bonfire.

Do not light a bonfire if your neighbour is using their garden, has washing out or has their windows open.

• Wait for the right weather conditions before lighting a fire. Do not light the bonfire close to your neighbours’ property to prevent the risk of the fire spreading. Only burn easily combustible clean material, avoid burning anything that can release fumes or smells that can cause problems for anyone with a medical condition that effects their breathing such as asthma.

• Instead of having a bonfire you could consider using the local household waste recycling centre or composting your garden waste.

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Diamond, ruby and emerald set frog brooch Sold for £3,800

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Rolex - Gentleman's Oyster Perpetual Daydate 18K wristwatch

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n NEWS

11 houses get go-ahead for planning DESPITE objections from the Parish Council, 11 homes will be built at Cambridge Batch on the former garage site and associated buildings.

The Parish Council made the following objections: “The design, in the setting of Gatcombe Court/Farm, bears no sympathy to location and rural identity [the Parish Council] would like to at least see an aesthetic nod to Gatcombe. “[The] Planning Officer should look at surrounding green belt and environmental concerns given the status of the site in the green belt.

“Affordable housing needs to be larger and, if possible, moved to the other side of the entrance, as it looks out of place sitting next to ‘mansion’ size houses.”

longashton&failandvoice n PLANNING APPLICATIONS Eucalyptus fell 70 Long Ashton Rd Long Ashton North Somerset BS41 9LE Determination deadline: 31 October 2023 Two-storey extension 15 Keedwell Hill Long Ashton BS41 9DP Proposed erection of a two-storey (first floor and loft) rear extension and connected rear dormer with partial raised ridge and subsequent loft conversion. Installation of 2no. roof lights at the front elevation and 1no. window to the rear at the first floor level.

Determination deadline: 1 November 2023 Creation of off-road parking 12 Providence Lane Long Ashton BS41 9DQ Proposed creation of off-road parking including landscaping alterations at the front of the property and creation of hard standing and access stairs.

Determination deadline: Mon 06 Nov 2023 Fell three Ash trees killed by die back Woodland Opposite Clarken Coombe Lodge and to the rear of Buttercliffe Farm, Long Ashton Road, BS41 9JQ. Determination deadline: 07 November 2023 153 Long Ashton Rd, Long Ashton, North Somerset, BS41 9JQ T - 1 Box crown reduction by 1 mtre. Crown lift to 2 mtrs and prune clear of outbuildings by 0.5 mtre. T - 2 Plum crown reduction by 1.5 mtrs. T - 4 Magnolia reduce to north side of tree by 1 - 1.5 mtrs back to boundary. T - 6 Copper Plum remove lowest branch on southern side that overhangs the extension.

Determination deadline: 20 November 2023

Moving reptiles without harm with aim of building 4x houses 1 Warren Lane Long Ashton North Somerset BS41 9DA Discharge of Condition numbers 10 (Revised Reptile Survey) and 12 (Ecology Landscape Management Plan) on application 20/P/2145/ FUL Determination deadline: 24 November 2023 Dormer Cottage, Yanley Lane, Long Ashton, BS41 9LR T - 1 Sycamore Remove low secondary stem on the N/E side. Required to allow room to construct an artificial bat roost required for a building development.

Also: T - 2 Cherry fell. Space required for an artificial bat roost required by for building development.

Determination deadline: 04 December 2023 For further information, go to https://bit.ly/3twCrXa

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