South Bristol Voice, February 2017

southbristolvoice February 2017 No. 21

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• 2,000 patients still without a GP Page 5 • Cycleway divides opinion Pages 6-7

POLICE have charged a man with murder following a collision in South Bristol in which a man was trapped under a car.

Kyle Clarke, 27, died at Creswicke Road, Hengrove, at about 9pm on January 10, despite the efforts of police and of drivers who got out of their cars to help.

The incident started at the Esso garage on Hengrove Way. A short while later the car, a silver Ford Fiesta, came to a stop on Creswicke Road, several hundred yards away. Witnesses told the Bristol Post they helped to lift the car off a man who was Continued on page 3

• See climate change at work Pages 10-11 • Healthy eating made fun Page 15

Search for new builder for arena

We’ve been stumped!

Children in tears after their place to play is lopped. STORY: page 6

THE COUNCIL is looking for another company to build the Bristol arena after negotiations with Bouygues UK broke down.

The French-owned building giant was dropped by the council when it became an open secret that the two sides could not agree on a price to build the arena.

There appears to be only one company left in the frame to pick up the contract – Buckingham Group, a specialist in sports and leisure complexes, which built the £30m London 2012 Olympic

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handball arena, known as the Copper Box. Mayor Marvin Rees says the extra talks needed will add another year to the programme, meaning the arena will not open until at least autumn 2020 – four years later than planned.

Neither Bouygues nor Buckingham Group wanted to talk to the Voice. The Voice understands that three other firms – BAM Construction, Laing O’Rourke and Sir Robert Continued on page 3

• WIN Meal for 2 and Bristol Blue gift in our great Wedding Guide Pages 18-21 • Cuts target is now even bigger Page 22 • The Witch: Page 22

• History: The story of the People’s Park Pages 30-33

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IN

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2 Paul Breeden Editor & publisher 07811 766072 paul@southbristolvoice.co.uk Ruth Drury Sales executive 07590 527664 sales@southbristolvoice.co.uk Editorial team: Beccy Golding, Alex Morss & The Wicked Witch.

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Intro

centre of the Temple Quarter, which is vital if Bristol is to create the jobs it needs – and the business rates that will fund the council in the future.

MAYOR Marvin Rees has been accused in the past of not getting a grip on Bristol’s many challenges and of failing to act.

Well, he’s made a brave move in parting company with the company that was going to build the arena. Clearly Bouygues UK was asking much more than the council was able to pay; it seems Mr Rees has been advised that another firm will be able to build the complex for less.

Let’s hope so. The last plan for an arena stalled at a similar stage for lack of funds in 2007.

Bristol needs its arena – not just for its own value, but as the

• IT’S not the Voice’s role to take sides in planning disputes. But the row over the Victoria Park cycleway has got overheated.

Cycling campaigners claim Victoria Park Action Group is “co-opted by a fundamentally anti-cycling group”.

Anyone who knows members of VPAG, or its offshoot, FOG, the Filwood Quietway Opposition Group, will know that there are many keen cyclists in their midst.

They do not object to cycle routes in principle; but like hundreds of local people, they don’t like the current plan.

Nuff said.

A BRAVE DECISION – BUT A RISKY ONE TOO

February 2017

n BRIEFLY n FIND out about the fascinating story of William Brock, the great Victorian engineer who lived in Totterdown and was responsible for many railway stations in the South West and across the world. Peter Read presents a talk to Knowle and Totterdown Local History Society, the group whose efforts last year led to the new bridge to Arena Island being named Brock’s Bridge. Held at 7.30pm at Redcatch Community Centre on Redcatch Road, Knowle, on Friday March 10.

• knowleandtotterdownhistory. org.uk n CARERS and people living with dementia are invited to the monthly Memories Café at Zion Bristol in Bishopsworth Road. Every first Wednesday of the month the doors open at 10.30am. It’s for carers, people who have dementia and those feeling lonely or isolated. The sessions are free with a donation for tea and cake. Volunteers are welcome; e-mail info@zion bristol.co.uk or call 0117 923 1212.

• zionbristol.co.uk

n THE TRIAL of the man accused of killing Knowle man Kamil Ahmed has been delayed at Bristol Crown Court until March 20. Jeffery Barry, 55, of Wells Road will be prosecuted for murder in a trial expected to last up to two weeks. Mr Ahmed, a Kurd who was applying for asylum in the UK, lived at a home for people with mental health difficulties at 346 Wells Road. n THE WINNER of the competition to win a dog grooming session at Groomingtons, published in the January edition of the Voice, is Ray Hooper of Knowle. His dog Millie, a collie cross, will soon be experiencing the full grooming treatment at Groomingtons in Whitchurch.

• groomingtons.co.uk n DISCOVER the many kinds of birds that live, sing and feed in Arnos Vale cemetery. A family event on February 13 encourages adults and children to learn about different species, then make a bird feeder to take home.

• arnosvale.org.uk

How do I get in touch with ...

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My MP? Karin Smyth MP Labour, Bristol South. Email: karin.smyth.mp@parliament.uk Post: Karin Smyth MP, House of Commons, London SW1A 0AA Phone: 0117 953 3575 In person: Surgeries on Friday February 3 and 17 at Knowle West Health Park, Downton Road, BS4 1WH, 9.15-10.45am. Call 0117 953 3575. *

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My councillor?

Christopher Davies Lib Dem, Knowle Post: Brunel House, St George’s Road, Bristol BS1 5UY Email: Cllr.Christopher.Davies@ bristol.gov.uk

Gary Hopkins Lib Dem, Knowle (Lib Dem leader) Email: Cllr.Gary.Hopkins@bristol.gov.uk Phone: 0117 985 1491 or 07977 512159 Lucy Whittle Labour, Windmill Hill Post: Brunel House, St George’s Road, Bristol BS1 5UY Phone: 07392 108805 Email: Cllr.Lucy.Whittle@bristol.gov.uk Jon Wellington Labour, Windmill Hill Post: Brunel House, St George’s Road, Bristol BS1 5UY Phone: 07392 108804 Email: Cllr.Jon.Wellington@bristol.gov.uk

USEFUL NUMBERS Bristol City Council www.bristol.gov.uk 0117 922 2000 Waste, roads 0117 922 2100 Pest control and dog wardens 0117 922 2500 Council tax 0117 922 2900 Housing benefit 0117 922 2300 Social services 0117 922 2900 Police Inquiries 101 Emergency 999 Fire

Emergency 999 Inquiries 0117 926 2061

NEIGHBOURHOOD FORUMS NOTE: These meetings may be affected by council cutbacks Windmill Hill Wednesday February 22, 7-8.30pm, Victoria Park Baptist Church, Sylvia Avenue BS3 5DA Knowle Tuesday February 28, 7-8.30pm, Knowle Community Centre, Crossways Road, Knowle BS4 2SS Neighbourhood Partnership Wed Mar 8, 6pm, Victoria Park

EDITOR’S NOTE: South Bristol Voice is independent. We cannot take responsibility for content or accuracy of adverts, and it is advertisers’ responsibility to conform to all relevant legislation.

Feedback is welcomed: call editor Paul Breeden on 07811 766072 or email paul@southbristolvoice.co.uk.

All stories and pictures are copyright of South Bristol Voice and may not be reproduced without permission in this or any other plane of the multiverse.

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February 2017

n NEWS Family appeal for privacy after death crash adds to burden of tragedy

southbristolvoice Continued from page 1 trapped underneath it. Shakrun Islam, 30, of Rounceval Street, Chipping Sodbury, has been charged with murder. He was remanded in custody at Bristol Crown Court until February 17.

Kyle was a builder from South Gloucestershire. His mother, Helen Stockford, now has to cope with the tragedy of her son’s

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death after he earlier saved her life. Kyle arrived home in Southmead in March 2009 and shook the hand of family friend Mark Shirley, who was leaving the house.

Only when Kyle got indoors did he find that Shirley – who was a convicted murderer – had raped his mother and appeared to be about to kill her.

Helen Stockford waived her right to anonymity to campaign for more attention to be given to the victims of sex crimes.

Following the death of her son, Helen Stockford said: “We would like to thank the public and the emergency services for all their support. We would ask the media for privacy at this time to allow us to grieve in peace.”

Mayor puts arena date back to 2020 Continued from page 1 McAlpine – walked away from the 2015 talks because they thought the council wanted them to take too much risk.

Bouygues UK was named preferred bidder to build the arena in February last year, with Buckingham Group the only other contender remaining.

It was expected that a budget and timetable would be agreed by the summer of 2016, but that date kept being postponed.

By last autumn it became clear that the talks were in trouble, but Mr Rees and Cllr Helen Holland, cabinet member for place, insisted a deal would come in the winter.

With no signs of progress after almost a year of talks, the Voice and others asked for an update.

Finally, on January 10, Lib Dem leader and Knowle councillor Gary Hopkins tabled a question to Mr Rees: “When will the mayor admit publicly that the negotiations with the current contractors on the present plan to deliver the arena have failed?”

The next day, January 11, the council said it had halted talks with Bouygues. Sources indicate the council would not pay the

Second-choice contractor in a strong position as council looks for another partner price Bouygues demanded, and consultants advised that another contractor should be able to complete the project for less.

Mr Rees said: “I firmly believe that we can and will build the arena Bristol deserves but this has to be for the right price.”

If the council cannot agree a deal with Buckingham, tenders will be sought from other firms. But Mr Rees still expects construction to begin by spring 2018.

Cllr Hopkins said the delay will only add to the cost – officially £95m but now thought to be many millions higher.

Every week of delay to the project was said by the council to add £80,000 to the bill. An extra year would add more than £4m.

“There’s heavy inflation in construction costs, especially in this part of the world,” said Cllr

Get ready for traffic jams MOTORISTS are warned to expect increased congestion across South Bristol as a host of major road projects get under way over the next few weeks.

The South Bristol Link Road opened on January 16. It is designed to ease congestion in the south of the city by providing an easy connection between the A370, the A38 and the ring road.

But now that it is open, work has begun on a Metrobus lane in Hartcliffe Way. This road becomes one way, with traffic heading south – away from the

city centre – diverted along Bishopsworth Road, Novers Hill or St Peter’s Rise.

More Metrobus works have started at the junction of Sheene Road and West Street in Bedminster, with diversions in place. Installing a Metrobus bridge over Winterstoke Road and new bus stops throughout Bedminster will add to delays.

Meanwhile, February sees the start of major works to remove the Temple Circus roundabout and turn it into a traffic lightcontrolled junction.

Campus dream: Bristol University wants to spend £300m on the old sorting office, to include a student village, a digital innovation hub, and a ‘future business school’ Hopkins. It leaves the one remaining contractor in a strong position to negotiate, he added.

Cllr Jon Wellington, who represents Windmill Hill ward, said he though it was better that the arena was brought in on budget, rather than on time.

Former mayor George Ferguson said he was “extremely disappointed” by the news, but he believed other contractors would re-enter the fray.

However, Mr Ferguson predicted that the higher costs will mean that it will take more than the 10 years he had projected before the capital is

paid back and the arena goes into profit. “I expect that to be extended to 15 years,” he said.

“It remains excellent value to the city and has already encouraged further investment into what is the most successful enterprise zone in the country, and is a factor in the decision by the University of Bristol to create a second campus adjacent to the station, on the Post Office site that I acquired for the city.

“There is no sensible option but to proceed and it is important that the city unites behind what is such an important project for our future,” he said.

However, Peter Abraham, the Tory councillor who chaired the committee that gave the arena planning permission in April, said it was in the wrong place.

He accused Mr Ferguson of rushing the project through and told the Bristol Post: “This could be a financial burden on Bristol for years to come. Maybe we should be stopping it now.”

A better site would be the old Brabazon hangar at Filton, he said.

The last arena plan at Temple Meads fell apart 10 years ago after a similar impasse over costs.

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February 2017

n NEWS

Bus lane cameras are raking in fines Kevin Crehan: Denied racism but was imprisoned for 12 months

Mosque attack man dies in Bristol prison KEVIN CREHAN, the Knowle man jailed after the race hate attack on Totterdown mosque a year ago, has died in prison.

Crehan, 35, of Springleaze, died at HM Prison Bristol in Horfield on December 27.

Rumours circulated on social media that he had been attacked, but police said they were not treating the death as suspicious.

Crehan was a former alcoholic and drug addict.

The Prisons and Probation Ombudsman will investigate his death before an inquest is held.

Crehan was given a 12-month term, the longest given to four people sentenced for racially aggravated public order offences at the Jamia mosque in Green Street on January 17, 2016.

Bacon was thrown at the mosque, an English flag with the slogan “No more refugees” was propped outside, and worshippers were racially abused.

Crehan and three others admitted the charges but denied they were guilty of racial abuse.

That was described as “ridiculous” by Judge Julian Lambert at Bristol Crown Court.

CAMERAS on bus lanes either side of Bath Road next to Totterdown bridge have been catching out unsuspecting motorists by the score.

Dozens are paying fines of £30 for straying into the bus-only lanes – many without realising.

Most have been caught in the short stretch of bus lane next to the traffic lights on the city-bound, or Totterdown side of the road.

This section is so short that many motorists don’t notice it – or fail to see the road markings in dark, wet conditions.

But many may not realise that they have grounds to appeal.

Bristol city council has confirmed to the Voice that if a vehicle travels less than 20m in the bus lane, no penalty is due.

“If someone feels they have

DEVELOPER Paul O’Brien has made a planning application for two blocks of 217 flats in Bedminster Green up to 10 storeys high – without a single affordable home among them.

The plan joins a list of major developments in the area which developers claim do not give the profits necessary to build lower-rent homes.

Consort House and Regent House, the former tobacco offices in Bedminster Parade, are to be turned into 235 flats, while St

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been fined incorrectly they can appeal by following the instructions on the back of the notice,” said a spokesperson.

Some drivers decide not to appeal against the £30 penalty because the fine doubles if it is not paid within 14 days.

In fact, they don’t lose the discount if they make an appeal, the council said.

A discussion on Facebook was started by a Knowle woman who said she turned into the bus lane

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on the outbound, or river side of Bath Road, just a metre too soon.

The photo issued to her (left) shows her car only partly inside the bus lane. The driver is appealing against her fine.

The success rate of appeals does not seem to be high. Of 31 people who reported that they had been caught by the bus lane cameras on Bath Road, only two said they had got the fine dropped.

Many said they hadn’t realised they were in a bus lane.

“They got me there – literally at the edge of bus lane to avoid traffic queue. Won’t do that again!” said one driver.

Another driver said the road markings should be changed “if so many of us are straying into this lane in readiness for the left turn towards the Wells Road.”

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Rollo plan: 217 homes in 2 blocks Catherine’s Place is to be rebuilt as 188 flats. No social housing is included in either scheme.

Bristol city council wants developers to build up to 40 per cent of new homes for affordable rent – but they cannot demand this if the developer can show the returns will be too low.

Mr O’Brien’s plan, submitted through Rollo Homes, says social housing can’t be afforded because of the need to build a district energy centre at one end of the site – the former Pring & St Hill steelworks on Malago Road.

However, Rollo faces competition from developer Urbis, which has the council’s backing for its masterplan for the entire Green area.

Urbis lost a bidding war with Rollo to buy the Pring & St Hill plot. Urbis was the first to propose a gas-powered energy

centre on the site – known as Plot 1 – to supply heat and power to around 2,000 homes on the Green and nearby. Now it says it will find another site – meaning there could be two competing plans for similar power facilities.

To add to the confusion, a Clifton company, Acerbic, has applied for permission to put 360 solar panels on a narrow strip of land next to the railway embankment, behind the proposed Rollo flats.

The 217 flats have only 103 parking spaces in an underground car park.

Windmill Hill residents group WHaM said Rollo’s claim to have consulted the community was “a joke”. Howard Purse, leader of WHaM’s Malago group, said Rollo had twice been invited to meet residents but hadn’t done so.

Both WHaM and the BS3 group fear that if the Green is developed piecemeal by different developers, the community benefits promised by Urbis – a health centre, new open spaces and more – will be lost.

WHaM is holding a meeting to discuss the Rollo plan at 8pm on February 15 at Windmill Hill community centre in Vivian Street.

• Letters: Page 22

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February 2017

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n NEWS

Thousands yet to find a new GP after St Martin’s closure MP asks health secretary what he thinks of surgery handover process

ABOUT 2,000 patients at the illfated St Martin’s GP surgery in Knowle have yet to find another doctor, weeks after the practice closed its doors.

Karin Smyth MP has tabled questions in Parliament after concerns over the short time patients were given to find a new practice.

NHS England wrote to patients at the end of November, giving them five weeks’ notice of the closure. (In fact, the closure was even sooner – see panel.)

This was despite the fact that regional NHS officials in Taunton had known for five months that the Crest family practice, which ran St Martin’s, wanted to close it.

In theory, there is capacity for all 5,000 St Martin’s patients at five nearby practices: Priory, Wells Road, Merrywood, Birchwood and Crest’s other practice at Knowle West Health Park.

But the rush to register thousands of patients has led to queues, lots of overtime, and hiring temporary staff.

If the other GP surgeries had been given more notice, they could have hired more staff, for example salaried GPs instead of locums.

At Priory surgery on Wells Road, the closest to St Martin’s, 1,500 extra patients have so far registered. Wells Road has taken 670 and Crest around the same number – although the Voice was unable to obtain a figure.

NHS England was unable to give a figure for the total number of patients unregistered, but said it was around half, which would be 2,500. The Voice believes that fewer – around 2,000 – are still without a GP. Priory practice manager Mary Hunter said: “We have been coping, but it hasn’t been easy.”

Some patients who hadn’t found a new doctor now realise they need an urgent prescription, which means their new surgery has to pull out all the stops to register them quickly. Practices

NHS WON’T OWN UP TO MISLEADING PATIENTS NHS England is still refusing to admit that it misled patients on when the surgery would close. Its letter, sent in November, told patients that the St Martin’s contract ended on January 4, and it would stop GP care on January 7.

Yet St Martin’s actually closed on December 30, with a phone helpline available until January 5.

The Voice pointed out the mistake. But far from apologising, report they are still able to see urgent cases the same day. Waits for non-urgent appointments vary but can exceed two weeks.

Karin Smyth MP, who has been chasing NHS England for progress on the patient handover twice a week, has tabled three written questions to health secretary Jeremy Hunt.

She asked Mr Hunt “if he will make an assessment of the effectiveness of the re-registration of patients previously registered at St Martin’s GP surgery.”

She also asked what steps NHS England has taken to ensure the smooth transition of hard copy records of patients from St Martin’s to other practices.

And she inquired what steps the Department of Health takes to help patients whose GP surgery closes to re-register.

A spokesperson for NHS England said it had sent two letters to patients telling them of the need to switch doctors. It had identified vulnerable patients, and helped them find a new GP. “There also has been comprehensive local media coverage including TV, radio and print. We feel that this is sufficient coverage to raise awareness with patients,” said the spokesperson.

“From past experience, we never get 100 per cent of patients registering elsewhere and we know there will be patients who won’t register for another six months.

We do know that patients who are ill will seek medical advice, and we have ensured provision is available locally for patients to register with other practices.

the NHS tried to cover up its error.

A second letter, sent on January 9 to patients who hadn’t yet registered with a new doctor, included the claim that “in November we wrote to you [to tell you that the practice] would no longer be seeing patients at the surgery from December 30 …”

This is plain wrong – the first letter makes no mention anywhere of a December 30 date.

The mistake may have misled patients into thinking they had an extra week to find a new doctor.

Ultimately, it is the patient’s responsibility to register.”

The delay in announcing the closure was in order to explore every option for providing GP care, either at St Martin’s or elsewhere, the NHS said.

Asked whether NHS England should apologise to patients, the spokesperson said: “It is not our role to apologise to patients – we commission primary care and hold contracts with providers who own and run GP practices as independent businesses.

“At a time when new GPs are hard to find, [small practices] often can’t compete with the bigger practices that offer more opportunities.” Many GPs prefer to work as salaried doctors or locums, without the risk of running a business.

“We are seeing more and more small contracts being handed back across the South West.”

Totterdown flats – third time lucky?

DEVELOPERS are making a third attempt to build flats on a derelict site at the corner of Bathwell Road and Goolden Street, Totterdown.

Bath-based Crossman Homes have returned with a planning application for nine flats over three storeys. It would have no parking spaces.

Unlike previous proposals, its outline resembles the surrounding Victorian terraces, and it lines up with an adjacent plan, to build six town houses on another derelict plot behind Holy Nativity church.

Crossman’s first plan, put forward in 2015, was for a modern-looking four storey block with multicoloured cladding.

It was mauled by neighbours, with comments including “unspeakably foul”.

Linn Waite, who lives close to the site, said the new plan is better than the old one but will still loom above the two-storey houses on Bathwell Road.

“Some of the residents of Bathwell Road are very upset because it will completely overshadow them,” she said.

Linn believes the Bathwell Road homes are about 7.5m high, while the new flats will reach 10m.

The planned flats have some coloured render as a nod towards the rest of Totterdown, but most of the walls will be brick.

“Views of Holy Nativity church, which is a Totterdown landmark, are going to be blocked,” she said.

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Got a story or any other inquiry? Call Paul on 07811 766072 or email paul@southbristolvoice.co.uk

February 2017

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n NEWS They’ve ruined our play area CHILDREN who live near Victoria Park were in tears when they saw what council ground staff had done to their favourite place to play.

A line of laurel bushes next to the tennis courts provided a mini-jungle for scores of youngsters, who could be found there on the way home from school, climbing the low branches and playing hide and seek.

But not any more – the council has cut back the shrubs to around 4ft in height, ruining the natural play area.

Windmill Hill dad Danny Penman said his daughter Sasha, 4, was one of several children who burst into tears when they saw what had happened.

Like many parents, he viewed it as a safe place for the children to play where the adults could keep an eye on them.

“The irony is that they have spent a fortune on play facilities in the playground when this was just as good,” said Danny.

“All the evidence is that climbing is great exercise, both physically and mentally, and there aren’t many places that children can do it.”

A council spokesperson said the pruning looked severe because the bushes hadn’t been cut back for some time. But they needed to be at a safe working height so staff are not at risk working in the park, he said.

The bushes can now be maintained more regularly to stop them interfering with the nearby tennis courts, he added.

Opponents of Quietway are MP and councillors say locals’ views must be listened to by planners PASSIONS are high over the proposal to put a segregated, lit-up cycleway through Victoria Park, with almost 1,100 comments made to the council as the Voice went to press.

Objectors numbered 626 on January 16, while 451 wrote in support of the plan, which is the first planning application to form part of the Filwood Quietway – a £2.3 million safe cycle route from Filwood and Knowle West through Windmill Hill to the city centre.

Most of those opposing the plan are local to the park, while most of those supporting it live further afield.

According to Windmill Hill councillor Jon Wellington, only 67 of the supportive comments made by January 11 – the official close of consultation – came from the Windmill Hill ward.

Bristol Cycling Campaign and other cycling groups have been mobilising support for the plan, encouraging people from all over the city to register their views.

The campaign accused opponents of being opposed to cycling.

“We believe the estimable Victoria Park Action Group have been co-opted by a fundamentally anti-cycling group whose true agenda is shown by their name, FOG (Filwood Opposition Group).

“Their purpose is to resist the

What they say OBJECTORS

SUPPORTERS

• Wide, segregated path encourages cyclists to speed • Current shared paths work well • Lights will change park’s character • Removing barriers will make it easy for youths on motorbikes • Loss of much-valued flat area • Wide path too intrusive • Will not fix drainage problems • Lack of evidence of a need for cycleway of this scale

• Evidence shows segregated paths don’t increase cycle speeds • Wider, flatter route is better • Lights will make people feel safer • Bikes still enter park now; and barriers prevent disabled access • Dangers are exaggerated • Similar widths in Castle Park • Will prevent flooded paths icing up • Traffic-free routes encourage more people to start cycling

whole Filwood Quietway route and they’ve quite rightly identified the Victoria Park section as the point where they can hide their true aims under a cloak of appearing to care about parks and pedestrians,” said a statement by the cycling campaign.

Those opposed to the plan object vehemently to the claim that they are anti-cycling.

“There is absolutely no truth in this,” said Rob Porteous, a keen cyclist and chair of the Filwood Opposition Group, which was set up as an offshoot of VPAG. “It’s entirely unhelpful because it sets up a scenario where you have pro-cyclists and anti-cyclists fighting each other.”

Mr Porteous agreed that FOG had been poorly named, and members were meeting to consider a new name as the Voice went to press.

The wave of opposition to the plan from local people doesn’t show that they are anti-cycling,

but that they don’t like the current plan, he said. “It’s perfectly possible to be in favour of a high quality link between Filwood and the city centre but opposed to the specific proposals in Victoria Park,” he said.

Cllr Wellington at first said he would not take sides on the project but, with his colleague Cllr Lucy Whittle, has now decided that the “overwhelming opposition” locally means a new plan for the route is needed.

In their column for the Voice, they called the claim that local groups are anti-cycling “unhelpful”.

“People in Windmill Hill and Totterdown love cycling,” they said – citing a council survey which found that 25 per cent of people in the ward commute to work by bike.

MP Karin Smyth has also been deluged by comments on the scheme. In her Voice column, she said she was very much in

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If you already have an adult rabbit and are thinking about getting them a friend, speak to one of our vets or nurses for tips on introducing them to each other.

The best pairings are usually a neutered male and spayed female

as they are the most likely to get along. It is possible to have two rabbits of the same sex; however, these should ideally be paired together from birth. Both rabbits should still be neutered at the earliest possible age in order to discourage dominance and aggression.

Contrary to popular belief, guinea pigs do not make good friends for rabbits. Although they may tolerate each other, it will actually be very difficult trying to cater for two different species in terms of diet and husbandry.

Rabbits will be more inclined to

play, groom and eat together if they are with their own kind, and it will make for a much more relaxed living environment.

If, for whatever reason, you are unable to accommodate two bunnies, try to keep your single rabbit indoors as much as possible.

That way they will still be able to receive enough interaction and company to keep them happy.

Nobody wants to live alone all the time after all! Of course, don’t forget to make sure they get some exercise outdoors still; rabbits need access to UV light to keep them healthy. Call Highcroft Veterinary

Nic Walton MRCVS Veterinary Surgeon at Highcroft Veterinary Hospital, Whitchurch Hospital on 01275 832410 for further advice or to book an appointment for your new bunny.

To advertise, contact sales@southbristolvoice.co.uk or Ruth on 07590 527664

February 2017

southbristolvoice

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n NEWS

accused of being anti-cycling

Conflict or co-existence? The cycleway in the lower part of the park, which opponents say is used for games favour of improved cycling infrastructure, but that many local people have serious concerns about the plans as they stand. She has written to the council urging that planning committee members “properly consider the views of local people, who know the park best and use it daily.”

The proposal is for 645m of path, mostly 4.7m wide, with a buff-coloured surface for the 2.5m wide two-lane cycleway, to set it apart from the footpath, of 2.2m width.

The section from Marmaduke Street to Park Avenue would be narrower – 4.3m in total, with the footpath reduced to 1.8m.

About 150m of the path would be new. Critics say it will look more like a road than a path.

LED lighting on 4.5m posts would automatically dim to 30 per cent brightness after 7pm.

Barriers at Nutgrove Avenue and Somerset Terrace will be removed, making access easier for wheelchair users and parents with large buggies as well as cyclists.

The new path would be designed to improve drainage, so that it does not get flooded.

Typical of the supporters was a resident of Hill Street, Totterdown, who wrote: “A cycleway through a park is the preferred option rather than cycling along a busy road.”

Objectors including FOG,

VPAG, and Tresa, the Totterdown community group, fear that removing the barriers will bring a return to the days when youths on motorbikes plagued the park.

Police have not objected to the plan, but Acting Chief Inspector Nigel Colston acknowledged that the problem of anti-social motorbikes had been resolved by installing the barriers.

“If the gateways are widened to make way for a cycle path then we will monitor the situation and would ask members of the public to please report any problems to us,” he told the Voice.

Tresa suggested an alternative route, down Wedmore Vale, across St John’s Lane and up Nutgrove Avenue.

In contrast, Mr Porteous believes cyclists should continue to use the shared paths in the park, but these should be improved. “We are very focused now on trying to find a solution which is good for everybody, which enables double or triple the number of cyclists coming through the park.

“Victoria Park is a big place and it can accommodate that. It would be a good outcome without a huge outlay on a segregated path,” he said.

The council has £500,000 to spend on the Victoria Park scheme from the Government’s

Come on, join in the clear-up WANT to help continue the success in clearing the banks of the New Cut from litter? FrANC, the Friends of Avon New cut, meet to pick up rubbish from

the banks along York Road from 10am-12noon on Saturday February 11 and March 11. Tav and cake follow each session.

• franc.org.uk

Cycle Ambition Fund, as part of a £19m grant ring-fenced for cycle schemes across the city. A council spokesperson said: “Any delays will create a significant risk to the funding.”

The council was unable to say when the plan would be put before a planning committee.

• Karin Smyth: Page 26 • Your councillors: Page 29

Catchments shrink again PARENTS in South Bristol can expect more disappointment when they learn the results of their applications to primary school later in the year with the news that some school catchment areas have shrunk further.

Hillcrest primary, in Totterdown, has the smallest area from which it draws its pupils than any school in Bristol – now reduced to just 295m.

The area is set by the furthest away a place was granted last year. The year before, Hillcrest’s catchment was 574m.

Pressure on places at local schools is nothing new – particularly Hillcrest, Victoria Park and St Mary Redcliffe primaries. None of these schools has room to expand. Victoria Park’s catchment is 698m and St Mary Redcliffe’s 621m.

Last year several parents in the Arnos Vale area were unable to get their children into any of the nearest schools.

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February 2017

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n NEWS

Paintworks may pay for RPS THE FOURTH and final phase of the Paintworks development is going ahead, against the massed opposition of residents, some of the firms who work on the site, and a local councillor.

Paintworks Phase 4 was approved by planners on December 21, but building can’t take place until a legal agreement has been reached between the owner, Verve, and the council.

This could see Verve paying for a residents parking scheme in the roads around Paintworks, where neighbours already complain they are unable to park.

It’s not clear how far this RPS might extend.

Verve will also have to satisfy the council that it can protect the existing Paintworks businesses from the impact of building work.

The plan includes 92 flats – 36 single bedroom, 50 of two bedrooms and six three-bedroom – with 11 of them affordable.

Planners noted that 66 of the

homes do not meet the latest minimum space standards, which were introduced just after the application was submitted.

In addition, at least 14 of the flats are considered unacceptable in terms of light, outlook and privacy.

But because Paintwork is a high-density, urban project, and because similar arrangements have been approved elsewhere on the site, planning officers told councillors they didn’t think the plans could be refused.

Four new buildings are proposed, including one of eight storeys facing Bath Road, which is designed to look like a Victorian warehouse. The old Endemol building – previously the TV studio where Deal or No Deal was shot – will be demolished.

Residents in Chatsworth and Edward roads have introduced their own voluntary parking scheme because the streets were so congested. They say the

scheme is working well, although of course it cannot be enforced.

There are wider worries, however, about the level of development proposed for Arnos Vale, with flats given permission behind Majestic Wines and further schemes expected.

Cllr Harriet Bradley, Labour member for Brislington West, suggested that one of the undeveloped sites should be used for a car park.

“The effect on traffic flows in the Bath Road is horrible to contemplate,” she said.

Richard Jones, owner of publisher Tangent Books, whose office is at Paintworks, said business people and residents are waiting to hear what the agreement with Verve will bring.

“We are disappointed that the planning committee did not agree to defer the application, but we were encouraged that it was passed by six votes to four, which reflected our concerns.”

Free offer to new mums A FITNESS trainer who specialises in helping new mums get back into shape is making a free offer to Voice readers.

Sian Fletcher, who runs Feelgood Fitness classes at Flow Yoga’s studio in Whitehouse Street, Bedminster, will give readers their first session free.

Sian offers personal training and Pilates classes but is an expert in post-natal recovery.

She said: “Most new mums feel pressure to snap back into shape once the baby is born, or are left feeling lost about what exercises they can safely do and when. We will work out the most appropriate exercises for you, whether that’s trying to combat low back pain, lose weight, heal tummy muscles or return to sport.”

Sian is offering a free half-hour consultation to mums who want to get back into shape after having a baby. Contact: • sian@feelgoodfitness.org

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Regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority Got a story or any other inquiry? Call Paul on 07811 766072 or email paul@southbristolvoice.co.uk

southbristolvoice

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n FEATURES

Bats are flying, butterflies are basking and flowers are blooming in winter more often, says Alex Morss

February 2017

How climate change is at work

H

OW future-proof is your garden? Pioneering invaders from abroad are poised to migrate into Bristol gardens, parks and wild places, if scientists’ predictions are correct.

And we are likely to see changes among our favourite visitors, too. Recent sightings and climate change forecasts show that wild populations are on the move.

Our city offers the perfect ‘des res’ to invading opportunists, for several reasons.

We are close enough to the continent for migratory birds, bats, sea life, insects and spiders to drift or fly across from southern regions. Also, rarer, migratory species from Europe will probably increase in frequency amid forecasts for milder, wetter winters in Bristol.

Those on the edge of their natural range are more likely to survive the milder winters and breed natively. What’s more, alien species thrive on urban land and places near waterways, roads and railways. These factors

SEEKING OUT THE UNSEASONAL BLOOMS AMID a hard frost blanketing Victoria Park and the Northern Slopes, 15 people spent new year in search of unexpected blooming wild flowers.

This annual event, now in its sixth year, sees hundreds of botanists and nature lovers across the UK looking for unseasonal surprises.

Searchers led by Alex Morss found 26 species in flower – down on last year’s 37, but 2015 was the mildest winter on record, in contrast to this year’s deep chill.

Alex said: “It was a stunning, bright winter’s day and a good excuse for walking off the festive excess with a purpose.”

Among the more familiar, supposedly summertime bloomers that were found in flower on January 2 were tree mallow, wild

Rare find: A pair of dormice found at a secret site in South Bristol. Like bats and other hibernating creatures, they are increasingly being found active in the winter months thanks to milder weather. PICTURE: Alex Morss combined make your little green corner of Bristol a potential hot spot for harbouring some surprising fair-weather friends and foes in future.

This winter, residents in Windmill Hill and Bedminster

found plagues of ladybirds – thousands of them clustering on buildings and under sycamore and lime trees. This behaviour tends to be from the alien harlequin ladybird, which first arrived in Bristol 10 years ago

and are now abundant. They prey on our 46 native ladybird species, introduce a disease and rob them of food. The UK Ladybird Survey says these variable-colour beetles are the most invasive ladybird on Earth. They are prolific breeders

carrot, daisy, sun spurge and forget-me-not, plus some hardier winter regulars such as speedwells, and white and red deadnettles.

South Bristol is also populated by many Mediterranean aliens that are garden escapees. “They cloak many walls and waysides and offer crucial winter nectar to any unseasonally active pollinators on milder days,” said Alex. These include ivy-leaved toadflax, bellflowers and Guernsey fleabane.

Other botanists joined the race in north Bristol, with 40 flowering species found on one site at Shirehampton, and 34 near Clifton.

The organiser, the Botanical Society of Britain and Ireland, is still analysing the data, but indications from those taking part in South West England suggest there were far fewer species in flower this year compared to last time.

• #NewYearPlantHunt • bsbi.org/new-year-plant-hunt

Plant hunters: Alex Morss leads a new year search for winter flowers

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February 2017

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– right here in South Bristol December 2016, I watched and foragers. Scientists say pipistrelle and noctule bats flying harlequins invade cities faster in Victoria Park and Arnos Vale than surrounding countryside cemetery. They would normally and there is a link between their be hibernating in December. increase and climate warming.

I have also spotted red Other recent Bristol arrivals admirals and peacock butterflies have included purple herons, in winter flight and basking in small red-eyed damselflies and sunny spots, sheltered from the not far away, rare, migrating winds by our city’s urban skyline.

Geoffroy’s bat and Nathusius’ For any hungry winterpipistrelle bats. Many native awakening pollinators, wild moths and butterflies are also flowers are in blossom even on being boosted by milder weather New Year’s Day in in our region too, says Bristol – I counted 37 the UK’s Environmental wild species in bloom Change Institute. Sadly, around the Northern farming and habitat loss Slopes and Victoria reduce this gain.

Park (see below, left).

Bleak winters are Milder winters can rare in Bristol, but last help or hinder survival. winter was the mildest Species that normally on record, the Met Office hibernate may awaken said. Those of us who more often in milder record or survey wildlife saw unseasonal activity. Invader: Harlequin weather, such as bats, I frequently found ladybirds breed fast hedgehogs, insects and dormice. On a several of Britain’s 18 protected site not far away, I bat species foraging into late recorded Britain’s rare dormouse November. This is not unheard active in February 2016, when of, but milder temperatures the cold would normally render seemed to be rousing bats more them torpid. There is concern frequently than I expected from that hibernating species such as their winter torpor. dormice could fare worse in a When a bat’s metabolism and warmer climate, because if they body temperature rises, it needs awaken at the wrong time there to hunt for insects, and they can may not be enough food and they be spotted emerging from could die. crevices in buildings and trees. In

SHOULD WE WELCOME ALIEN INVADERS? SHOULD we be worried about Bristol’s new ‘blow-ins’? We know many of our native wild species are struggling. Will they cope with competition from the new kids on the block?

Aliens are not new, but their rate of arrival is increasing. Some are a serious nuisance, such as Japanese knotweed and fungi that cause sudden oak death, ash dieback and Dutch elm disease, plus insects that damage crops.

These culprits cost Europe billions of pounds each year, says the UK’s Biological Records Centre. Of 591 alien species investigated, the BRC said 93 pose a threat.

But we have few truly unique wild species, compared to other islands and Europe. Yes, Bristol boasts rare whitebeam trees, growing wild in Avon Gorge and planted in our parks. But half the species we call wildflowers are in

reality historic invaders, such as the Guernsey fleabane, wild fennel and willowherbs found on paths in Bedminster. Bristol is infested by Spanish bluebells and Himalayan balsam. They are legacies of Bristol’s slave trade, the Romans and our gardening obsession.

The bees are not complaining about floral newcomers. Our native pollinators need all the food they can find.

The RSPB thinks many of our truly wild bird species will expand their range under a milder climate, particularly generalist species including the green woodpecker and tawny owl, which are both seen in South Bristol.

We can still expect to see our top garden birds, from blackbirds to blue tits, but also arriving are serins, hoopoes and Scops owls.

The RSPB says specialists and rarer creatures, and those that need a cold spell, might suffer.

That amounts to about a third of our native species.

HELP WILDLIFE COPE WITH FUTURE CHANGE • We should design gardens, parks and wild spaces to support a range of species year-round.

Species richness will increase resilience to stress and change.

• Ensure your garden is well stocked and not too tidy, with a long season of flowers, fruit sources and shelter.

• Make connecting green routes between gardens, to increase animal hunting territory.

• In mild years, hedgehogs might have a late autumn second brood of hoglets. Offer sheltered spots and dry cat biscuits – not fish ones – to help their chances of winter survival.

Winner: The green woodpecker may thrive in warmer weather

• Diseases thrive in wetter weather. Create dry shelter areas to help insects and spiders. Allow moths and butterflies to overwinter in dry spaces such as your shed or house – don’t be tempted to put them outside.

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Got a story or any other inquiry? Call Paul on 07811 766072 or email paul@southbristolvoice.co.uk

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February 2017

n NEWS

Family in terror at masked intruders A KNOWLE family are asking to be moved from their council home after a terrifying ordeal in which two masked men burst into their Newquay Road home looking for a cannabis factory.

They had come to the wrong house – but refused to leave until they had searched upstairs.

Mum Sophie Iles, 34, is left with bruises after struggling with one of the men.

She went for an emergency health check as she is seven months pregnant.

She has been assured her unborn child is fine, but her 11-year old daughter was thrown to the ground in the attack and was more badly bruised. She has been suffering panic attacks.

However, the thugs did not get things all their own way.

Sophie grabbed a crutch which was in her porch and beat one of the men with it until he left.

The other man, who had been searching the upstairs rooms,

Mum hits knifeman with a crutch as thugs target the wrong house looking for drugs was chased off by the family dog.

Sophie is outraged that her house was targeted even though it is clearly a family home.

Her partner Steve, 49, was at a medical appointment at 10am on December 29 when Sophie was at home with her four children aged 15, 11, 9 and 1.

Sophie told the Voice: “There was a tap on the door. I thought it was the postman.

“But I heard a scream and I went out and found my 11-year– old had been pushed to the floor and there were two men, both with baseball bats.

“I managed to get the children

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into the front room and I was trying to push the men out of the front door. I could see one of them had a knife.

“I said, ‘Get out of my house.’

He said, ‘We have just come for the crop.’ I said, ‘You have got the wrong house,’ but he said he was going to look anyway. He said he had a knife and he held it towards my throat.

“I said, ‘I don’t care, I just want you out of my house.’ I just wanted my children to be safe.

He didn’t seem to care when I said I was seven months pregnant.”

Thanks to Sophie’s bravery, the men quickly fled. One is about 20, 6ft tall and well built.

The other is 35-45 and about 5ft 8in. Both smelled of cigarettes.

“My daughter was really shaken up,” said Sophie. “The other day a different postman came and she threw herself to the floor and had a panic attack.

“We have all been staying in

the same room and moving round as a troop. It’s not your home any more,” she said.

The family, who have lived in the house for nine years without any problems, have asked to be moved but were warned it could take many months.

The police believe that as it was case of mistaken identity they are not at further risk.

Sophie’s partner Steve, however, has installed security measures.

Neighbourhood Inspector Nigel Colston said: “This was clearly a terrifying experience.

“This hopefully sends a strong warning to people growing cannabis in their homes of the kind of world they’re getting involved in.

“We’ve had a number of incidents across the Avon and Somerset area in the past year, including Bedminster. With a mature plant potentially yielding £1,000, it’s clear to see why grows become a target.”

Free coffee for readers in an unbeatable location ONE OF Bristol’s most beautifully situated cafés has come up with a special pre-spring offer for readers of South Bristol Voice.

Kate’s Kitchen, which since last year has been running the café at Arnos Vale cemetery, will give every reader who asks for it, a free cup of coffee.

It’s one cup per reader, and for each coffee you must produce the Kate’s Kitchen advert which appears on this page.

Photocopies will not be accepted.

Owner and founder Kate Ploughman wants to share the beauty of her new café, which is tucked away in woodland in the middle of Arnos Vale, before the arrival of spring brings its usual rush of visitors.

The café will also be running themed monthly pop-up suppers, (details on its Facebook page).

It’s 10 years since Kate began Kate’s Kitchen as a caterer for events including weddings, corporate and private events.

She said: “Arnos Vale café is a great shop front window for Kate’s Kitchen and a great opportunity to showcase all our

Free coffee– roasted in Bristol food, and such a lovely venue to be involved with.”

She lives in Southville and has a commercial kitchen base in Windmill Hill. Food is as seasonal and locally-sourced as possible – milk is from Somerset, meat is free range from South Gloucestershire, and many ingredients are organic. Staff are selected according to their sensibilities as well as their skills.

Before starting her business, Kate worked as a chef in several bistros and restaurants in Bristol, and as far afield as New Zealand.

She soon became convinced that she could strike out on her own to create cost-effective food on a par with top-class restaurants.

• Facebook: kateskitchenarnosvale

To advertise, contact sales@southbristolvoice.co.uk or Ruth on 07590 527664

February 2017

southbristolvoice

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n NEWS

Eat the right foods to beat the winter blues Gemma Dumayne from Knowle West Health Association has some tips on what to eat to help improve our mood this winter

I

T’S THAT time of year again.

Many of us will feel those winter blues with the cold weather and short, dark days.

What we eat can really have an effect on our mood. Some foods can help us cope better with the lack of sunlight.

According to NICE (National Institute for Clinical Excellence), about one in six people have a severe vitamin D deficiency in the UK during winter and spring. A mild lack of vitamin D can cause tiredness and general aches and pains. A more severe deficiency can cause more serious problems such as rickets (in children) and osteomalacia (in adults). Vitamin D plays a vital role in bone health and researchers are now finding that a lack of it may affect many other areas of health, even giving symptoms of depression.

Foods such as eggs, oily fish

Happy eaters: The Food and Mood class held weekly in Knowle West

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and fortified foods can supply us with vitamin D. However, it is difficult to get the recommended daily amount from our diet alone.

Public Health England says that adults and children over the age of one should consider taking a supplement containing 10mcg of vitamin D daily in winter. You don’t need to buy expensive supplements – supermarket brands will do the same job. Do check with your GP or pharmacist before taking supplements if you are taking other medication.

It is also important to get the SIGN

right balance of fats in our diet.

Our brain is around 50 per cent fat and a good diet can help keep it healthy. Omega-3 is an essential fatty acid and is obtained from food. As well as helping keep our brain healthy, it can help keep our hormones in balance, which can enhance our mood. Try to have oily fish such as salmon, mackerel, herring, sardines or trout once or twice a week, and aim for a portion of 140g. If you really don’t like fish then think about taking a supplement.

And don’t forget to eat at least Hybrid, Berry, Parity Project Status: Planning Covers internal: 55

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five portions of fruit and veg a day to get lots of fibre and energyboosting vitamins and minerals!

At Knowle West Health Association we would love to help you think about the food you eat and your wellbeing. We run fun cooking classes and teach about nutrition in our beautiful community kitchen. Come along to our Food and Mood class on Thursdays from 1-3pm and learn how to cook delicious healthy meals that will boost your mood but won’t break the bank. See panel for details of other classes.

We are currently having a New Year sale and the first six-week course of the year will be just £1 a class.

• Gemma Dumayne is a registered nutritionist (ANutr)

WHEN AND WHERE? Monday Lose Weight Feel Great 10.30am-12.30pm Eat Better for Less 1-2.30pm Thursday Food and Mood 1-3pm • Knowle West Health Association, 49b Filwood Broadway, Knowle West BS4 1JL Call to book your place on 0117 963 9569 or email kitchen@ knowlewesthealthassoc.org.uk • kwha1.wordpress.com

FIRE EXIT

Costa want a Knowle café Existing shopfront

PLANNERS are set to decide whether a Costa coffee shop can open in Knowle – a further vote of confidence in the Broadwalk area as empty shops continue to be snapped up.

Costa: Sees potential in Knowle The former Blockbuster store Proposed shopfront has recently been turnedarchitecture into a design limited “I know there are other Bristoltanning salon. based businesses that could have Costa, the national chain of come here, such as Grounded around 2,000 coffee shops, and the Lounge group, but sadly wants permission to change the they haven’t seized the use of the old Co-Op bank at opportunity,” he said.

316-318 Wells Road – formerly “I think Costa will give a the Britannia building society. different offering to our current The café would have 17 tables cafés, so hopefully will not and 47 seats. It follows the arrival adversely effect their trade.” of the upmarket Parsons bakery The building has been empty chain in Wells Road in 2015. since early 2014.

Christopher Davies, Lib-Dem One neighbour on Wells Road councillor for Knowle, welcomed has lodged an objection, saying the plan. “I welcome any she has seen mice enter the business to the area in place of building. The infestation needs to empty units, providing jobs and be dealt with before a café is choice to the community. opened, she said.

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EST. 1971

KNOWLE

Monday to Friday 00:00 – 00:00 Saturday 00:00 – 00:00 Sunday 00:00 – 00:00

480 double sided 600mm dia projecting sign Screen printed Costa Red double sided polycarbonate panels fixed to a rim &return built up, mounted onto an internal sub-frame with de-scaled stainless steel beaded edge. Fixed using integral galvanised steel frame, finished silver with matching stainless cover plate for bracket.

Internal casing sprayed gloss white Internal white LED illumination.

100 fascia sign 3mm Aluminium folded & welded tray fascia, powder coated 'Umbra Grey' RAL7022. Built up rim & return "Costa" letters finished in 'Costa Red', "t" letter height 350mm. 13mm foamex backed letters with white LED illumination, 5mm opal trueled perspex letter faces to illuminate from LED. fascia lettering 640Lx90Hx2Dmm Aluminuim flat cut lettering finished matt white bonded directly to existing fascia/ tray proprietary cable display system 3mm folded perspex pockets to accommodate A1 size promotional posters. Stainless steel cables and clamp fixings. product list 2 Reverse applied frosted vinyl. 370x1250mm new door opening times DPO-L, 730*290mm vinyl.

NO SMOKING. NO DOGS. Definitely no smoking dogs.

CCTV

CCTV SURVEILLANCE Act like your Mum’s here.

CCTV Surveillance is in operation. Images are being recorded for prevention and detection of crime and the promotion of public safety.

This system is operated by Whitbread Group PLC who can be contacted at 0845 1162325.

A WARM WELCOME FOR EVERYONE

Details of facilities to assist guests with a disability are available from our manager.

Please don’t hesitate to ask for any assistance that might help during your visit. If you are unable to queue for assistance, please find a table and attract the attention of one of our team.

FIRE EXIT

780

For more information regarding facilities at this or any of our other stores, please visit us at costa.co.uk or directenquiries.com

PLEASE CLOSE THE DOOR AGAINST ENERGY WASTE.

window manifestation 80mm reverse applied frosted vinyl beans, WMAN. 1500mm above FFL. door handle Hafele, satin stainless steel 600mm, 25mm dia.

FD30S

registered in England and Wales, No.08419252

The Joiners Shop, The Historic Dockyard Chatham Kent, ME4 4TZ

+44 (0)1634 816132 www.adesignlimited.co.uk twitter.com/adesignlimited facebook.com/adesignlimited

This drawing has been produced for xx and is submitted as part of the planning application at Costa Knowle and is not intended for use by any other person or for any other purpose.

site address:

316 Wells Road, Bristol, BS4 2QS

drawn by:

Kamlesh Singh checked by: #### Planning

project status:

window vinyl Costa Coffee Club, 210*70mm vinyl.

PROFESSIONAL SERVICE EVERY TIME PLUMBING & HEATING ENGINEERS

windows doors and stall risers decorated in Umbra Grey RAL 7022

new fire door , TBC

Existing & Proposed shopfront 1:50

ALL PLUMBING & GAS WORK UNDERTAKEN

Costa Knowle - A3 Pages drawing no: ##/A.02.5 date: 13/12/2016 time: 16:05 scale: 1:50@A3

0

1

2

3

• BOILER INSTALLATIONS • BOILER REPAIRS • POWER FLUSHING • UNVENTED SYSTEMS INSTALLED • BATHROOMS INSTALLED

505353

FULLY INSURED

Nathan Proud Z 07830 448127

* thegaspro@gmail.com

Got a story or any other inquiry? Call Paul on 07811 766072 or email paul@southbristolvoice.co.uk

INVITATION

CJ Hole Southville invite you to accept our offer of a free sales or lettings valuation.

To arrange an appointment, please telephone the office or call in personally.

If you have instructed another agent on a sole agency and/or sole selling rights basis, the terms of those instructions must be considered to avoid a possible liability to pay two commissions.

MEDIUM SOUTH WEST

268 North Street, Southville, Bristol BS3 1JA

t: 0117 963 4373 southville@cjhole.co.uk With 17 offices covering Bristol, Gloucester and Somerset

OPENING HOURS Monday - Friday 9am - 7pm Saturday 9am - 5pm

SOUTH WEST

MEDIUM AGENCY ESTATE AGENCY YEAR 2011

The Multi Award Winning Agent

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February 2017

southbristolvoice

n THE MAYOR

MARVIN REES Mayor of Bristol

B

A new round of detailed consultation is planned from late January, looking at how the council will implement some of the latest savings proposals, if they are approved. You can also submit questions to be answered at next month’s special budget-focused full council meeting on Tuesday February 21. In order to be considered, please get your questions to us by 5pm on February 15, by emailing democratic.services@bristol.gov.uk.

Elsewhere, we are also working hard to support those in Bristol aiming to improve their own health and fitness during 2017. Not only has Bristol got a wealth of active health

groups which aim to make sport and health more accessible, but this is also the city’s year as a European City of Sport. In January I met 150 key individuals from sporting organisations across the city to discuss the vision for the year ahead and how to develop sporting opportunities for Bristol.

• bristol.gov.uk/cityofsport2017 Staying fit and healthy is not just about exercise. What we eat and drink also has a big impact. Last month saw the launch of Bristol’s bid to become a Sugar Smart City. Alongside the Jamie Oliver Food Foundation, Bristol Sport Foundation and UWE, we want to raise awareness of where sugar is hidden in food so that we can all make more informed choices.

Current data shows that 57 per cent of adults and over a third of 10-11 year olds are now overweight in the city – and a quarter of five-year-olds in Bristol have tooth decay.

Not only this, but the number of cases of life threatening diseases related to a poor diet, such as Type 2 diabetes, is increasing.

Many of these conditions can be traced to eating too much sugar. While it can be easy to point out some foods to avoid, some are much harder to spot. If you would like to take action for yourself and your family I would encourage you to head to the website below to discover how we can all eat smarter in the year ahead.

• sugarsmartbristol.co.uk

live happy!

save £5

join now!

with

Slimming World with

North Street, Bedminster BS3 1JP 9.30am, 5pm, 7pm Tel: Kelly 07760 623115 Thursday Bedminster Victoria Park Primary School St John’s Lane entrance, BS3 4QS 5.30pm, 7.30pm Tel: Kelly 07760 623115 8000 Ashton NEW CLASS Ashton Park School Blackmoors Lane, Bristol BS3 2JL 7.30pm Tel: Emily 07887 514245

Slimming World

slimmingworld.co.uk

k ee *wh en you buy a 12-w

live happy!

Monday 9.30am, 6pm Knowle Tel: Virginia 07938 567886 Filwood Community Centre Knowle Barnstaple Road, Knowle BS4 1JP Church of the Nazarene 9.30am, 11.30am, 5.30pm, 7.30pm Broad Walk, Knowle BS4 2RD Tel: Kim 07920 023170 9.30am, 11.30am, 5.30pm, 7.30pm Clifton Tel: Susan 07711 388511 St Peter & Paul Cathedral Ashton Pembroke Road, Clifton BS8 3BX Ashton Park School slimmingworld.co.uk 0344 5.30pm; Tel: Susan 07711 388511 Blackmoors Road, Ashton BS3897 2JL Tuesday 7.30pm; Tel: Freda 07908 632426 Bedminster Wednesday Salvation Army Bedminster Dean Lane, Bedminster BS3 1BS St Francis Church

Just £9.95 on week one then £4.95 each week

FREE

membership*

m be ra nd 21st January

If we don’t make hard choices we won’t be able to plan our savings Y NOW many Voice readers will have had the chance to review the council’s new budget proposals and updates to the draft corporate strategy launched in January. These documents outline how we propose funding the top priorities for the city including my seven key commitments and vital services.

I’m grateful for all the thoughts and ideas that were given to us during the initial consultation at the end of last year and I understand that some of the savings ideas aren’t popular. Many other places made these hard decisions a long time ago. Bristol is being forced to catch up and if we don’t do it now we will lose any chance of making savings in a planned, controlled way which can take into account the needs of local people.

17

Friday Knowle NEW CLASS PLUS new From Feb 3 book easy-start Filwood Community Centre of menus Co Barnstaple Road, Knowle e BS4 1JP un ec tdo 9.30amwn between 25th D Tel: Kim 07920 023170 Saturday Bedminster Salvation Army Dean Lane, Bedminster BS3 1BS 9am Tel: Susan 07711 388511

0344 897 8000

Got a story or any other inquiry? Call Paul on 07811 766072 or email paul@southbristolvoice.co.uk

February 2017

southbristolvoice

18

n WEDDING GUIDE Advertisement feature

By Kirsten Butler, venue stylist • LittleWeddingHelper.co.uk

A

S A STYLIST I’m always aware of the latest trends, colour of the year or bridal fashions. To be honest I acknowledge them but don’t really follow them. Trends can be great for inspiration but, a bit like fashion, if it doesn’t suit you, then don’t go with it. Do you want a trendy wedding or a wedding that reflects you both, your personalities and tastes? Either way, it is easy to become overwhelmed when planning your wedding and thinking about how you want your day to look.

Pinterest is a fantastic tool to help collect all your thoughts and

Wedding trends – pick the ones you like best ideas in one place, and I would say about 90 per cent of brides show me their wedding board when we meet for a consultation.

2017 TRENDS Light-Up Letters Lighting has always been important at a wedding, whether it be an up lighter or a candelabra, but having giant letters is certainly popular amongst couples who want to add a personal stamp to their celebration. Whether it’s your initials, your new surname or just a little LOVE, they really do light up a reception area or the dance floor.

Sequins Who doesn’t like a little sparkle, but never it seems on the dinner table.

We often tend to stick to white tablecloths, napkins and china, either because it’s a safe option or because that’s what our venue provides. Well, sequin linen is becoming more popular as couples

want to add a little wow factor to their big day.

Signs I have noticed a lot more of my couples getting creative with signs, whether it’s to welcome their guests, let them know what is happening and where, or to write their own personal messages, which I love. Signs are a fantastic way to add your personal stamp through your own handwriting or using modern calligraphy and illustration. What’s great about making your own signs is that pieces of wood can be picked up easily, or you could even use old doors! I loved this old door (left) at a tipi wedding in the summer Embroidery This may be a hobby that was associated with your grandmother - but no longer! For a vintage style wedding, hand or machine embroidery looks beautiful for

table names, place names and even buttonholes! And how cute is this badge (below) made by Sewn by Rachael, who also makes table names, menus, place names and pictures of the happy couple!

Long Dining Tables I love long tables at wedding receptions. Long table dining is great in village halls, tipis and marquees, and almost goes back to how celebrations used to be celebrated, everyone sitting down in an informal way. The idea is to create a personal atmosphere and fill the centre of the tables with colour and texture.

www.arnosvale.org.uk

0117 9719117

Just around the corner, you’ll discover 45 acres of beautiful woodland habitat.

Nestled between the trees, amongst vibrant wildflowers, is Bristol’s only licensed woodland wedding venue and two stunning Victorian chapels. Available for intimate weddings or grander celebrations, our 3 settings can be combined for ceremonies, wedding breakfasts and evening receptions.

Arnos Vale is the perfect and complete venue for your wedding day.

Save the date...

WEDDING FAIR

SUNDAY 19 MARCH ~ 11AM-3PM FREE ENTRY

To advertise, contact sales@southbristolvoice.co.uk or Ruth on 07590 527664

February 2017

southbristolvoice

19

n WEDDING GUIDE Advertisement feature

Great competitions with a romantic twist WIN a meal for two from a South Bristol wedding caterer – and a great prize from Bristol Blue Glass

W

E’VE got two great competitions for you as part of our celebration of South Bristol businesses that can help make your wedding more memorable.

Bristol Blue Glass needs no introduction – it’s one of the emblems of the city and it’s often chosen to be part of a wedding celebration.

Sometimes Blue Glass is chosen as gifts – earrings for the bridesmaids, perhaps, or cufflinks for the men – or indeed something special for the happy couple.

Sometimes it’s chosen as a little piece of Bristol that can be taken to another part of the world.

Another popular reason for choosing Blue Glass is to complete the saying, Something Old, Something New, Something Borrowed, Something Blue: what could possibly be a better gift for a Bristolian?

Every piece is handmade at the Blue Glass studios on Bath Road, opposite Arnos Vale, and there is a showroom in Bristol High Street.

One lucky reader can win a heart pendant, made of sterling silver and Bristol Blue Glass, an ideal romantic gift for Valentine’s Day. It’s worth £32 and it could be

Beautiful gift: This heart-shaped pendant of Bristol Blue Glass

Meal to savour: locally-sourced menu from the Eating Room

yours if you can answer this simple question: • Where is every piece of Bristol Blue Glass made?

• Answers by email to paul@south bristolvoice.co.uk by February 10.

“infusing Mediterranean flavours with a Bristolian flair”!

Ingredients are always sourced

locally, including from Totterdown’s Little Butcher and Baked bakery.

Everything is seasonal and as fresh as possible.

Menus for all kinds of outside events can be discussed, and the selection is always changing on the evening menu, offered on Thursday, Friday and Saturday.

Brunch and lunch are available Monday, Tuesday, and ThursdaySaturday.

Sample evening dishes are slow cooked shin of beef pie with turnips, pearl barley and cavolo nero, or in contrast a mixed crostini of braised fennel, marinated rainbow chard, baked borlotti beans and salsa rossa.

We’re offering one reader brunch, with cake to follow, for two.

Just answer this question: • What year did the Eating Room open?

• Answers by email to paul@south bristolvoice.co.uk by February 10.

T

he Eating Room is fast becoming a Totterdown institution. Opened at 156 Wells Road in 2015 by former social worker Sian Titchener, it’s already grown from a daytime café offering quality coffee and sandwiches to an evening destination too (with occasional pop-up guests). It also offers outside catering for weddings and other events.

Chef Thea Wakeling cut her teeth in the kitchens of Trullo and Lyles in London, followed by a spell in Rome. Hence some of the Eating Room menu is inspired by the trattoria of Italy – described as

Got a story or any other inquiry? Call Paul on 07811 766072 or email paul@southbristolvoice.co.uk

February 2017

southbristolvoice

20

n WEDDING GUIDE Advertisement feature

A sample of the dresses from A Class Brides

Arnos Vale is the only place you can have a real woodland wedding near the centre of Bristol

For ideas to make your wedding special,

I

F Valentine’s Day and the approach of spring puts you in the mode for planning a wedding, you’re in a great place to do it. Many people think of a

country church or a huge hotel as a wedding venue, but there’s plenty of choice of locations, food, gifts and accessories right on your doorstep here in South Bristol. Our

A CLASS BRIDES AWARD-WINNING BRIDAL BOUTIQUE

featured advertisers can offer you the satisfaction of individual service delivered locally, and they will probably cost less than many of the more corporate alternatives.

Let’s start with the venue. Arnos Vale is already one of the most distinctive places to get hitched in the whole of the South West.

If you choose, you can have a woodland wedding outdoors – or you can use one of the restored Victorian buildings, including the Anglican chapel and the recently refurbished Speilman building.

The cemetery is one of the few licensed wedding locations that can offer a chapel as well as a unique outside location for a civil wedding.

• arnosvale.org.uk/weddings It’s often the little touches that make a wedding stand out in the memory. Knowle resident Diane

There are so many reasons not to travel far when planning your big day Hollands has created Pompachomp as an outlet for her reasonablypriced, very original sterling silver jewellery, as well as other gift ideas.

Describing her creations as “gifts and homewares that pop”, Diane has a small but growing range of jewellery including a fun fish pendant and chain for £16 or a pair of fun fish studs for £12.50.

Each piece is gift-wrapped in a recycled Kraft box with a message if desired. ‘It’s a labour of love, with some creations taking weeks to

Lucille’s: the ideal wedding treat!

Email: enquiries@aclassbrides.co.uk 27 Brislington Hill, Brislington, Bristol BS4 5BE 0117 919 3007 « | www.aclassbrides.co.uk

• Charming vintage caravan • Award-winning ice cream from Mendip Moments • Plus great coffee, waffles, shakes, sorbets and more • lucillescaravan.wixsite.com/lucilles

To advertise, contact sales@southbristolvoice.co.uk or Ruth on 07590 527664

February 2017

southbristolvoice

21

n WEDDING GUIDE Advertisement feature

Pompachomp: Jewellery handmade in Bristol

Bringing the outdoors inside with a Tinkerbell tent wedding

A wedding photo with a difference by the hand of lauracrouchley.com

you could try keeping it in South Bristol complete, but the sense of achievement you feel when you finish a piece is indescribable,” says Kate.

• facebook.com/Pompachomp What about a completely different kind of venue? If the countryside is your thing, you can bring the accommodation with you with Tinkerbell tent hire.

A “festival style” wedding is possible with a TinkerBell Tent village.

Founder Kate Phillips says: “Imagine walking into a meadow of your choosing scattered with beautiful bell tents glamorously decorated for you and your guests to share, enjoy and not have to worry about hotels and getting home, hassle free!”

• .tinkerbelltenthire.co.uk/ If you are using the outdoors, you might want some extra outside catering from a cute vintage caravan. Lucille’s is a familiar sight around South Bristol – a lovingly-

restored retro Robin 1970s caravan selling ice creams and coffee in the summer and, in the winter, luxury hot chocolates and waffles on a stick.

The ice cream comes from Mendip Moments, handmade on a family dairy farm in Somerset using milk and cream from a pedigree herd of Holstein cows. Lucille’s also sells sorbets, Fairtrade Brian Wogan coffee – and thick shakes made from the Mendip ice cream.

Lucille’s is a regular at festivals and all kinds of outdoor events but has also proved a hit at weddings.

• lucillescaravan.wixsite.com/ lucilles One of the essentials, is of course, the wedding dress and one of the best-known local specialists is A Class Brides of Bath Road, Brislington.

A Class Brides was established in January 2005 by Nicky Williams.

It has won several ‘highly commended’ awards from Wedding

* Handmade silver & copper jewellery hello@pompachomp.com

Ideas Magazine and won Bristol and Somerset Wedding Awards, Best Bridal Boutique in 2014 and 2015 and Highly Commended 2016.

All these awards were voted for by brides, and A Class is proud that its success is due primarily to customer recommendations.

Many brides say they want to choose their dress with a group of family and friends. If this is the case, A Class recommends that they book a weekday appointment if possible because it will make for a more relaxed experience.

• aclassbrides.co.uk The wedding cake is one tradition which is still popular, but many couples are now choosing something out of the ordinary.

Cakes by Shaz, based in Knowle, is happy to make a traditional tiered cake to meet the wishes of the couple – or to offer something different that makes a statement.

Shaz loves experimenting with

Modern, alternative & traditional wedding cakes made to order to match your beautiful day

Facebook: @cakebyshaz Email: cakebyshaz@gmail.com

different looks, from the Batman cake pictured in her advertisement to a gorgeous tiered gateau.

Whatever your idea for a wedding cake, she’d like to hear about it.

• facebook.com/cakebyshaz Once the day is over, it’s the photographs that help to bring back many of the memories. Laura Crouchley is a South Bristol photographer who prides herself on listening to her clients and her attention to detail.

She specialises in weddings and events such as christenings and likes to bring a natural look to her pictures – shooting outdoors or using natural light.

“My style is artistic, unobtrusive, natural documentary photography.

Every shoot is different and a creative dream,” she says.

Laura’s website is full of commendations from couples: “The photos are amazing – so many lovely shots” is a typical example.

• lauracrouchley.com

Do you dream of an outdoor wedding?

Beautiful Bell Tents set up at a location of your choice, with no worries about hotels!

www.tinkerbelltenthire.co.uk

Got a story or any other inquiry? Call Paul on 07811 766072 or email paul@southbristolvoice.co.uk

southbristolvoice

22

February 2017

n NEWS In witch I get competitive

D

ID YOU see the Advent Windows that popped up in the South Bristol streets over Christmas? It’s not quite the awe and wonder you get from some of our local houses with blinding lights adorning every spare brick, but Advent Windows is just as fun.

I was part of my road’s advent window display. My number was late in the month, but I had a brilliantly creative idea that would blow all the others out of the water.

“It’s not a competition’,” my tutting Evil Child reminded me. Oh but it is, and although my road is friendly there is an undercurrent of

BRISTOL’s financial black hole deepened as mayor Marvin Rees revealed that the council needs to save £100 million over the next five years – up from £92m.

The council needs to identify £40m of cuts in the next year alone. The main cause is the slashing of Government support for the council by 75 per cent.

It means unpalatable decisions for councillors, with the full council meeting on February 21 likely to be asked to approve: • Halving the libraries budget, leading to closures £1.4m; • Making parks “self-funding” by involving community and commercial groups £3.9m; • Ending neighbourhood partnerships £1m; • Cut adult care services £2.9m; • End meals on wheels £220,000; • Increase parking charges and end free Sunday parking £1.2m; An outcry over the ending of paid lollipop patrols at schools

Who is she?

THE We don’t know WICKED – she hides WITCH behind her big cloak and hat.

OF KNOWLE

one-upmanship. It was war.

As the displays were revealed doubt about my design ate at me.

When No. 5 was revealed I actually wept with jealousy. It was fabulous.

I worked through the night sticking lights and gluing glitter to my display, which ended up being a bit overworked, bordering on the bizarre and maybe a little terrifying.

It got a few sympathy likes on our Facebook page but as Evil reiterated (in disbelief at my

behaviour), it was not a competition, it was a lovely community exercise which got people walking around the streets and actually talking to each other.

Another competitive event (oops – community event) is the BS4 Good Garden Awards. How I hate it! Last year I wanted one of those elusive awards so I worked very hard on my hanging baskets and collection of pots. Refreshing the compost, screaming at those weird white giant maggot things (what are they?) and purchasing a wild combination of flowery delights.

It looked amazing, a burst of colour – I had that award in the bag.

It was late in July, when the flowers were dying off, that my road was judged. I spotted my

lovely next door neighbour proudly sticking her award in her window. I glared at her as she smugly smiled.

I took a look at her front garden; I have to admit it was fabulous in a tomatoey kind of way. I stalked up and down the road, spluttering. I could not walk around the local streets without spotting a certificate and then comparing that garden with mine in utter rage.

My family were tired of my moans so I decided to take matters into my own hands. No, I didn’t sabotage my lovely neighbours’ gardens by casting dark weedy spells. I was better than that. I printed my own award. “‘BS4 Phenomenally Fabulous Flowery Pots – awarded to myself”, and stuck it in my window. In your face neighbours!

Local democracy slashed at a stroke in cuts proposals has led to the saving being halved, from £360,000 to £155,000.

Some savings have been dropped altogether – the council will not be charging for creating disabled parking bays, or withdraw bus passes for carers.

Under threat, however, is Jubilee swimming pool in Knowle, where the £60,000 annual subsidy will be axed from April.

South Bristol parks will suffer as the council snatches more than £150,000 raised from the sale of land at Salcombe Road, Knowle, for housing. The money had already been allocated to pay for trees, paths, benches and other improvements to Victoria, Perretts

and Redcatch parks, Northern Slopes and Salcombe Road.

Cllr Gary Hopkins, Lib Dem member for Knowle, said: “This is an absolute disgrace. We raised the money with a responsible local decision to allow affordable housing, and the clear ring fencing has been ripped up.”

Cllr Chris Davies, the other Lib Dem member for Knowle, said axing the neighbourhood partnerships showed “pure contempt by this mayor”.

The neighbourhood partnerships allow residents to raise local problems with the council and police, and provide funds for work on roads and

parks. There is no clear idea on how they will be replaced.

Southville councillor and Green leader Charlie Bolton said: “Further cuts will destroy many of the public services we all rely on. Services for older people, those with disabilities, our young people and children will all be slashed.”

Among other proposals (all list on the website below) Bristol Waste Company could make £50,000 a year by offering householders larger bins, or weekly collections, for a fee.

Green waste collections would be fortnightly instead of weekly.

• bristol.gov.uk/corpstrategy

LETTERS Send letters to paul@southbristolvoice.co.uk or to 18 Lilymead Ave, BS4 2BX councillor Stephen and support social networks. The community centre in Vivian Concerns over Southville Clarke has got the council to danger is that the Green will be Street.

Howard Purse agree that developers should developed piecemeal and any social Leader, Malago Group, WHaM release this information. cohesion will fall through the flats proposal Secondly, the plan doesn’t gaps. We will end up with a lot of WHaM – the Windmill Hill and Don’t leave take into account the already flats, not enough family housing, Malago community planning overstretched services such as and a lot of isolated people. group– is still considering the doctors, dentists and schools.

Rollo’s statement of food in parks application by Rollo Homes for There is no investment in community involvement is 217 flats on the old Pring & St Hill site near Bedminster Green. But we already have some concerns.

Firstly, there is no affordable or family housing. We will be pressing for Rollo to make public their social housing viability report – something we believe should be possible now that

social infrastructure to encourage community cohesion. We believe the local authority has a role to play in this. We have a meeting scheduled with mayor Marvin Rees and Paul Smith, the cabinet member for housing, and will be urging them to recognise the Green as a major development and create

frankly a joke. We have invited them to meet residents on two occasions and they haven’t come back to us. One meeting with BS3 Planning group is not enough.

We invite residents who want to comment on the proposal to a public meeting at 8pm on February 15 at Windmill Hill

I LOVED your feature on helping wildlife in winter in your January issue. But can I make a plea to anyone who wants to feed birds or other wildlife – put the food out in your garden, not in a park.

If you leave it on the ground it will be eaten by rats – or my dog.

GR, Totterdown

To advertise, contact sales@southbristolvoice.co.uk or Ruth on 07590 527664

February 2017

southbristolvoice

RSPCA UPDATE

23 From Bristol Dogs & Cats Home

We’re seeking 130 ways to mark our big birthday

A

S PART of our 130th anniversary celebrations, we have spent some time looking at our historical records, and it has inspired us to raise some money! Bristol Dogs and Cats Home was founded in 1887 with less than £20. Although this equates to over £2,000 in today’s money, it has made us think about how much difference can be made with what might seem like a small amount.

It is clear that from an early date, the people of Bristol were very keen to support the work of Bristol Home for Lost and Starving Dogs, as it was then called. For example, as early as 1889, one innovative supporter taught his pet parrot to say “Pity the poor dogs, who have no home; please put the penny into their box!” Over 40 years later, in

Even a parrot can help us raise funds

the 1930s, some proactive friends of the Home hosted an annual dance. This dance was so popular it was known locally as the Dogs Dance! By the 1980s this had transformed into well-renowned parties at Platform One which raised over £400 one year.

And that brings us to today!

In January, we were contacted by groups who had raised money for us by holding a Whist Night, Rainbow Disco and a Mountain Trek. The ways of fundraising

POLICE REPORT Row over a space to park escalated into a police matter

W

E HAVE recently helped to resolve a neighbourly dispute in Totterdown which started with a resident trying to reserve a parking space outside their house by putting bins and cones in the way.

He became aggressive when challenged which resulted in a number of complaints from neighbours and people were starting to become scared in their own street.

We are working towards resolving the issue with an Acceptable Behavior Contract (ABC) which will prevent the resident from reserving parking spaces in this way.

The incident shows how quickly neighbourly disputes can escalate and I would always encourage people to avoid this

Leo clearly enjoyed his bath.

Could you be inspired by Leo and do a sponsored swim?

really are endless! This year, we are looking to enlist 130 keen fundraisers and set them the challenge of raising £130 each, as part of our #130for130 campaign.

Maybe you could hold a cake stall, run a 10k, do a sponsored

With Sgt Caroline Crane Broadbury Road police station

F

kind of conflict before it escalates in this way.

A

s the winter goes on, please do keep an eye out for elderly neighbours who may be feeling particularly lonely and isolated at this time of year. I mentioned last month how sometimes all it takes is a simple ‘hello’ to make them feel less isolated and part of the community.

Elderly people can be more vulnerable to particular types of crimes such as rogue trading, as they are seen as easy targets.

However, anybody can fall victim to such crimes. We had a case recently in Windmill Hill, where cowboy builders carried out shoddy work and became aggressive and threatening with a resident when they refused to pay their outstanding ‘balance’.

There are a few lessons to be learned from this incident. When looking at having work done, always be guided by recommendations from friends, family or colleagues. In this particular incident, the victim had found the builders on

swim or be inspired by a talking parrot and think of something completely out of the ordinary. If you are interested in taking on the #130for130 challenge, please contact Grace at grace@ rspca-bristol.org.uk

Time to talk: police are trying to ensure people with mental health needs don’t end up in a police cell Facebook and didn’t know anyone who had used their services in the past. Never pay money upfront – the victim here handed over £700 before any work had been carried out and then waited weeks for the builders to turn up.

Rogue traders will try it on with anyone but will be looking for vulnerable targets. If you don’t know who is calling at your home and you didn’t invite them there, remember – it’s your doorstep and your decision, so be confident, and turn them away.

ebruary 2 is Time to Talk Day and aims to bring the nation together and talking, to break the silence around mental health problems.

Just talking sounds easy, but the stigma surrounding mental health problems can be one of the worst parts of the illness for the one in four of us that are affected.

We want to understand and support in the most appropriate way. Last year, we joined forces with other emergency services to create a Mental Health Triage Team, ensuring that those with mental health problems get the care they need and ultimately don’t end up in a police cell.

Throughout February, we’ll be encouraging people to open up and talk about mental health issues and supporting wherever we can to break down the barriers which can prevent people seeking the help they need. The road to recovery can start with a simple ‘hello’. For more on Time to Talk, visit • time-to-change.org.uk Until next time, Sergeant Caroline Crane

Got a story or any other inquiry? Call Paul on 07811 766072 or email paul@southbristolvoice.co.uk

February 2017

southbristolvoice

24

n FEATURES

THE FAMILY CYCLING CENTRE

Saddle up and have fun at the best-kept South Bristol has one of the finest biking centres in this part of the world, and it’s got something for everyone

WHAT GOES ON THERE are lots of ways to enjoy the Family Cycling Centre.

• Learn to ride, whether you’re a child or adult; • Learn bike maintenance; • Take part in the Social Cycle – sessions for adults at risk of isolation, with Bristol Bike Project; • Cycling for the less able with a huge range of cycles from hand-operated ones to cycles for wheelchair users; • Free for all sessions where the less able can cycle around with friends and family; • Volunteer to help visitors, serve refreshments, do some gardening and more; • Work placements for people with learning difficulties and other disabilities.

Planned for 2017: • Competitive events including wheelchair racing and special Olympics events; • A bike club for children and young people to improve their skills.

I

T’S NO secret that if more of us took to two wheels instead of four, not only would we start to feel a bit healthier, but Bristol’s famously congested roads might become a bit easier to use.

There are lots of reasons why people don’t choose a bicycle to get around. Lack of confidence; not feeling fit enough; not knowing how to fix it; not having ridden for decades – the list is endless. But at the Bristol Family Cycling Centre in Hengrove, they have an answer to every one – and some reasons you never thought of in the first place.

The cycling centre opened last May but is still one of the city’s best-kept secrets – not helped by its location, tucked away behind a coach company off Bamfield, down a track which points to Action Indoor Sports.

But it shouldn’t be kept quiet, because the facilities are excellent, and include a totally safe oval track that’s completely off road and gives everyone a chance to do anything they want on a bike, whether it’s competitive riding to the gentlest

• betterbybike.info • Facebook: Family Cycling Centre of sessions for the less able.

There’s a workshop where adults and youngsters can learn how to look after their bike, and a large flat area away from the track where the less confident can get their balance and learn how to manoeuvre.

So far almost 2,000 people have visited the centre and scores

Regular visitors: Glenys Jones and Kristy Durbin on the traffic-free track of people have been taught how to ride a bike. Lots were children but many were adults, perhaps returning to the saddle after decades away.

“Many elderly people think their bike riding days are behind them. It’s only when they see how much fun it is that they can be persuaded to have a go,” said Emma Barraclough, community

active travel officer at the centre.

“And we can cater for people who may not be confident on a two-wheeler.

“We get lots of parents bringing their children up and we suggest they get on a bike and they say no. But then they do try and they really enjoy it!

“We have been very successful with the learn to ride sessions –

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February 2017

southbristolvoice

25

n FEATURES

THE FAMILY CYCLING CENTRE

cycling secret in the West of England It’s good fun learning to fix them too

Pedal power: Pupils from South Bristol schools learn to make bikes safe we have enabled 150 people to centre’s bikes for a few laps learn to ride. Some of them have round the track, but she’s never been on a bike before. But enjoying it so much she is we have a traffic-free place here, thinking of getting her own. it’s a really safe environment.

“I just love it. It’s the freedom.

Glenys Jones, in her 70s from You can do it on your own, and at Whitchurch, is now enjoying your own pace. I would be cycling again after 59 years. nervous going on the road, but I “I came up here first with my am thinking about getting my daughter and grandchildren and own bike! My daughter takes her they said, ‘Why don’t you have a children up to the Downs to cycle go?’ I said it wasn’t for me, but and I could join them. the grandchildren kept on at me.

“I think my late husband “I think they were amused to Undertaken would have been amazed. It Fixed Price Work see me make it all the way proves than anybody can do it, of Free Quotations around the track!” whatever age. Just because you Now Glenys is a regular are a pensioner doesn’t mean you Professional, Reliable Service visitor, borrowing one of the can’t!” she told the Voice.

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YOUNGSTERS enjoy being on two wheels more than most and there are lots of ways they can take advantage of the cycle centre.

There are Bikeability sessions – the equivalent of the old cycling proficiency test. Level 1 is for novices and takes place on a playground. Level 2 takes riders on the road for the first time and helps them deal with traffic, while Level 3 gives riders confidence for real-life journeys on busy roads.

Schools send children to the centre too. Some of the most enthusiastic learners are those who find long days in the classroom difficult and come to the cycling centre to build some practical skills in bike maintenance. “They are so

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keen they run through the gates to get in here in the morning, said Emma Barraclough, community active travel officer at the centre.

“And they are all really polite, because they all really want to come.

One boy at the workshop told the Voice: “I think it’s pretty wicked.

I have learned all about how to fix bikes.”

Another gave his verdict of the sessions: “It’s really good – no, it’s not good, it’s amazing!”

Luke, one of the trainers, explained the aim: “The idea is to take them through the elements of bike safety, starting with a safety check. We get them to understand how they can look after bikes. Not only will they leave with the skills, some of them will leave with a bike which they have done up themselves.”

As well as the school sessions, there is a free weekly maintenance class for 8-18s.

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February 2017

southbristolvoice

26

n YOUR MP

KARIN SMYTH Labour MP for Bristol South

Planners must consider views of locals on Victoria Park cycleway

G

ETTING out and about knocking on doors across South Bristol is one way that as your local MP I keep in touch with issues that really matter to local residents. Sometimes people want to talk about national issues that hit the headlines, but very often it’s local things that really affect their neighbourhood and quality of life.

One local issue that was raised with me by a number of people in December and January was the proposal for the Filwood Quietway, a cycle route linking the city centre with Filwood through Windmill Hill. It’s clear feelings have been running high, because of the implications of this plan for the muchloved and much-used Victoria Park.

Planning application consultations rarely attract responses that can be counted in

double figures. But hundreds of residents took the opportunity to give their views to the city council on this one. Many also contacted me by letter and email, and not just those living right by the park. As Voice readers know, Victoria Park is used by people across Bedminster, Totterdown and Knowle.

As a Sustrans champion, I’m very much in favour of improved cycling infrastructure,

and I know great strides have been made in our city in recent years. But I know that many local people had serious concerns about the plans as they stood. Many of those objecting to the proposal are people who also cycle regularly.

The 4.7 metre width of the path through the park led to concerns that it’s more road than cyclepath, and that this could markedly increase the speed of cyclists using Victoria Park. There were also fears that changes to park access, with barriers removed, creates the possible return of motorbikes to the park and the reduction of green space.

In addition to the details of the proposal there have been questions about the need for change, in the words of one constituent the “current co-sharing arrangement between cyclists, pedestrians and dogs works extremely well”.

In January I wrote to the city council urging that committee members properly consider the views of local people, who know the park best and use it daily. At the time of writing, the official consultation period has just ended, with planners due to make a decision imminently.

As ever I welcome Voice readers’ views on local or national issues. You can email me at karin.smyth.mp@parliament.uk or write to The House of Commons, London SW1A 0AA.

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February 2017

southbristolvoice

n PLANNING APPLICATIONS 316-318 Wells Road, Knowle BS4 2QG Change of use of ground floor from bank (Use class A2) to coffee shop (Use class A1/A3), amended shopfront: internally illuminated fascia sign, externally illuminated projecting sign. Pending consideration

7.30am-6pm. Application to approve details of condition 20 (Sample panels). Granted subject to conditions

11 St Martins Gardens BS4 2NJ Conversion of garage to utility room. Pending consideration

42 Haverstock Road BS4 2BZ Remove lean-to extension and construct singlestorey extension to rear/side infill. Granted subject to conditions

Land at junction of Goolden Street and Bathwell Road, Totterdown Erection of three storey building containing nine flats with associated landscaping.

Pending consideration

7 Lilymead Avenue BS4 2BY Single storey rear extension.

Granted subj. to conditions

14 Imperial Walk BS14 9AE Steel framed balcony with glass and stainless steel balustrade.

Granted subj. to conditions

46 Queensdale Crescent BS4 2TR Removal of air raid shelter and single garage. Erection of detached double garage for the use of both flats. Granted subject to conditions

16 Oxford Street, Totterdown BS3 4RQ Appeal against an enforcement notice for the erection of canopy/porch to front of dwelling. Pending consideration

50 Dickinsons Fields BS3 5BG Certificate of Proposed Development for use of integral garage as part of house, with external alterations to garage door and rear window. Granted

81 Hawthorne Street BS4 3DA Single storey rear extension to extend beyond the house by 4.1m, of maximum height 3.6m and eaves 2.45m high. Granted

4 Maidstone Street BS3 4SW Single storey rear extension.

Granted

27 Knowle, Totterdown, Windmill Hill

into four flats with four terrace houses on Montgomery Street.

Pending consideration 44 Lilymead Avenue BS4 2BX Single storey rear extension to extend beyond the rear of the house by 4.3m, have a maximum height of 3m and eaves 2.7m high. Pending consideration 111 Cotswold Road BS3 4PD Single storey rear extension to extend beyond house by 5.2m, of max height 3.1m and eaves 2.9m high. Pending consideration 6 Brecknock Road BS4 2DD Certificate of Lawfulness for rear dormer window and roof lights in front roof slope. Pending consideration

1 Green Street BS3 4UA Two storey building plus basement to replace commercial garage, to provide a 3 bedroom house (Use class C3). Pending consideration 1 Green Street BS3 4UA Amendment to permission 16/01459/F: Change of use of ground floor from retail/bedsit to self-contained flat with external steel staircase in courtyard.

Pending consideration 32-38 St John’s Lane BS3 5AD Outline application: demolition of garage, erection of four 4-bedroom and five 3-bedroom dwellings. Withdrawn

30 Gerrard Close BS4 1UH Detached two storey 2-bed house. Pending consideration

9 St Agnes Walk BS4 2DL Rear dormer roof extension, roof light in front roof slope and single storey rear extension.

Granted subj. to conditions

10 Raymend Road BS3 4QP Erection of dormer roof extension to rear elevation.

Pending consideration

• The status of these applications may have changed since we went to press. Check for updates at planningonline.bristol.gov.uk

12 Belluton Road BS4 2DW Loft conversion with rear roof extension. Granted

Malago House, Bedminster Road BS3 5NP Variation of condition 2 of 15/01988/F: Demolition of industrial buildings and erection of 110 homes; to allow change to permitted hours of work from 8am-6pm Monday-Friday to

1 Hill Avenue, Bristol BS3 4SF Approved details of conditions 2 (Construction management), 3 (Storage tanks removal), 4 (Tank removal validation and contamination), 5 (Landscaping), and 6 (SUDS) of 16/01240/F: Redevelopment of garage site; conversion of house

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A PLAN for a futuristic threebedroom house at 1 Green Street, Totterdown, with a basement floor dug into the ground, has run into opposition. A resident of William Street has objected that the house will affect his light and privacy, while a resident of Henry Street objects that it is out of keeping with the Victorian terraces around it. The plot is currently an empty garage.

WINDOW Wanderland returns to Windmill Hill in early march – and more homes are welcome to join in. The idea is that people decorate their front windows in any way they like, so long as it’s family-friendly. Viewing will be from 6-8pm on March 3 and 4.

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Got a story or any other inquiry? Call Paul on 07811 766072 or email paul@southbristolvoice.co.uk

February 2017

southbristolvoice

28

n YOUR COUNCILLORS

T

HE difference between the two mayors that Bristol has had have been shown at their Gary starkest over Hopkins the arena. While Lib Dem mayor Ferguson Knowle made rash and sometimes expensively wrong decisions, the present one has been delaying decisions, leading to a costly drift upwards of what we will all have to pay.

The terms of the contract to build the arena offered by the previous mayor led to most potential contractors deciding that they were not interested.

This led to only two contractors being in the game.

After a year of negotiating, it became clear some while ago that the chosen contractor was refusing to proceed at the price the mayor was prepared to pay – although the size of the gap has not been made public. There was, though, no announcement, and no moving

Knowle

on to Plan B. With inflation in the construction industry running at a very high rate, every week of dithering costs many thousands of public money.

I put two questions to the mayor’s cabinet, asking when are you going to admit the breakdown? and which of three possible options are you going for now? The questions were lodged, as required, some days in advance.

Between the placing of the questions and the meeting, action was taken. A secret cabinet report was drawn up which agreed the inevitable parting of the ways with the preferred contractor.

The mayor refused to answer the questions in cabinet but bowed to the inevitable and put out a press release the next day. Talks have now started with the other potential bidder. They of course know that they are now the only builder being considered. In arguments about price, they have the stronger negotiating position.

Time will tell whether the taxpayer will get a better deal – or even the one that they were promised.

W

E ARE dealing with a council that is increasingly in chaos.

There is no Chris doubt that there is Davies a very difficult Lib Dem financial position Knowle for the mayor to deal with, and it has been made worse by the previous mayor’s failure to actually deliver the savings that he claimed had been made.

Of course we have heard very little about the many millions that have actually been collected in rates and council tax, that had previously been massively underestimated.

This has meant that the present mayor is also mis-stating the financial situation. The response to the serious but exaggerated financial mess has led to even more chaos, with a spending freeze being imposed.

We successfully challenged some of the central council’s

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So I had to remind a highways manager that we had forced the mayor to back down on planning levy funds and so he should get on with the Redcatch Road -Woodbridge Road safety scheme in Knowle that he had downed tools on.

Our locally-raised parks improvement money has been grabbed for the moment and this has led to officers being paid to do nothing.

The same applies to local neighbourhood officers who are being paid to do nothing useful, due to the mayor ending the neighbourhood partnership meetings.

Sadly this will do away with all official local decision making.

The mayor’s budget proposals are for savage cuts to many local services. Is it too much to hope that he could at least stop wasting money?

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February 2017

southbristolvoice

n YOUR COUNCILLORS

F

ROM the number of emails we’ve received this month it is clear that the biggest topic locally is the council’s planning application for the Victoria Park section of the Filwood Quietway project, which connects South Bristol to the city centre with a safe cycling route.

The plan includes widening of the southern path to a maximum of 4.7m to allow for segregated cycling and pedestrian use, and the opening of gates to allow for easier access for cyclists.

In recent months we have been working to ensure that the council’s team are aware of concerns raised by residents and local groups, including Victoria Park Action Group. The council submitted a planning application which responded to some of these concerns. However, we felt the consultation did not sufficiently address issues raised, so we referred the application to the planning committee. We highlighted local concerns about pedestrian safety and conflict between walkers and cyclists, the

Jon Wellington Labour Windmill Hill

Windmill Hill

Lucy Whittle Labour Windmill Hill

possible return of antisocial behaviour from motorised vehicles if the barriers are removed, and the loss of green space on a flat part of the park. We, along with residents’ groups, were keen for this to go to planning committee so that residents could make their case to councillors.

Given the overwhelming opposition to the plan locally, we will be making a statement to committee asking for a new plan to be produced that responds to the many and varied concerns of local park users, including pedestrians and children and the nearby primary school.

By the final date for comments, January 11, an incredible number

29

How to contact your councillor: p2

of submissions had been made: 583 individual objections were submitted, the vast majority from the local area. A total of 427 supportive comments were received. However, it should be noted that of these supportive comments, by our count only 67 come from people who live within Windmill Hill ward (Victoria Park is situated centrally in the ward). Jon will be highlighting these figures in his statement to the planning committee.

The comments from people outside of the ward have largely been the result of a campaign by a lobby group which has had the unfortunate effect of turning the issue into an ‘Us v Them’ situation between cyclists and local people. The accusations they have made about local groups being anti-cycling have been unhelpful: in terms of all the objectors we have spoken to, this could not be further from the truth. People in Windmill Hill and Totterdown love cycling – the recent quality of life survey

for the ward indicates that 25 per cent of people in the ward commute to work by bike.

We are in favour of an improved cycling infrastructure in the city and in Windmill Hill ward, and we are supportive of the Filwood Quietway scheme as a whole. We are also in favour of improved cycling provision in Victoria Park, and we are keen that we retain the Department for Transport money (around £500,000 for this part of the route) which can bring benefits of improved lighting, entrances, drainage and resurfaced paths.

This is a ring-fenced grant that must be used on improving cycling infrastructure, and cannot be used for any other projects or council spending.

People have also got in touch to express their support for this plan, and our role as councillors is to balance the views of everyone in the ward. However, as detailed above, the outcome of this consultation is clear, and as such we will not be supporting the plan in its current form.

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southbristolvoice

30

February 2017

n HISTORY The story of Victoria Park The people’s park is much more than a

V

ICTORIA Park is surely one of the best-loved parks in all of Bristol. Few are bigger; few are so attractive; few have such a variety of features and terrain, of trees and undulating open spaces, and very few can match the views.

We all like a park on our doorstep, and in fact council’s surveys show that people living near Victoria Park report a higher quality of life than most other parts of the city.

But back in 1891, when the park was opened, it wasn’t seen merely as a bonus to the area, or as just a pleasant vista, but as a necessity. A park wasn’t just somewhere to enjoy fresh air for an hour: it was seen as a symbol of everything that was healthy, an antidote to the filth and smells that were enveloping Bristol.

Bedminster was an industrial colliery village in the mid-19th century and, along with

Walking the dog, playing with the kids, admiring the flowers – the Victorians loved their parks for these things just as we do, but also for far more weighty reasons Totterdown, was about to expand rapidly as a housing district for railway and industrial workers.

St Philip’s and the area along the New Cut was becoing home to factories, foundries, tanneries and other workplaces. These

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The cannon, allegedly from the Crimean War, sited in front of the lodge filled the sky with smoke and the air with noxious vapours, to add to the stench from the sewage that flowed down the river.

The terraced roads south of the river consisted of modest homes – but they were palaces compared to the slums just the other side of the New Cut, in Broadweir, in St Jude’s and around the Dings.

There were different levels of degradation. The better-off factory workers could afford a lodging in the Dings – though perhaps only one room for a whole family. Those less well off crowded into the area around Pile Street, Redcliffe, and the Temple area. Poyntz Pool, in modern St Jude’s, was the haunt of criminals, where “deserted boys are numerous, sleeping at a penny a night, two or three in a bed.”

These descriptions are from an anonymous newspaper article of 1854. It may have been written by the city’s mayor, JG Shaw, who described in terms of outrage how 15,000 people lived “in a state which is absolutely inconsistent with health and decency.” A further 30,00040,000 lived, one small room to a family, “in an ill-conditioned, badly drained house”.

W

hat was to be done?

The responsibility lay with the council, which, in 1848, had become the Local Board of Health, with wide powers to intervene in cases of bad housing – and to take action

to improve the water supply and the public drains.

These tasks were – slowly – accomplished. But people were crying out for more than clean water and toilets. Many realised that good health entailed clean air, the chance for relaxation, and the opportunity to feel part of nature. In South Bristol, they could see that every scrap of former farmland was going to be bought up for housing.

In 1871 came the Cry of the Poor. This was a letter from 17 working men, addressed to the 17 aldermen who ran the council.

Their names appear to be lost, and sometimes the number is given as 16. But their message was clear. They asked for clean air, free bathing places, no toll bridges, a fish market, a flower show – and a people’s park: “In nearly all the great towns of the North, most of which were mere villages when Bristol was a famous old seaport, such parks exist, they call them truly, as we see by the newspapers, ‘breathing places’, ‘the lungs of the great cities’. In some towns these have been the gift of noble hearted citizens; in others they have been secured by public money: but in each case they are devoted to the use of and the enjoyment of all classes of people.

“You will say that we have Clifton and Durdham Downs, but these are mainly for rich people who can afford to live in that neighbourhood. It would

To advertise, contact sales@southbristolvoice.co.uk or Ruth on 07590 527664

February 2017

southbristolvoice

31

n HISTORY The story of Victoria Park pleasure ground, it’s an urban necessity take an hour’s walking, after the hard toil of the day is over, to get to these beautiful spots, and then another hour to get home, thus making pleasure a toil.

“Brandon Hill is somewhat nearer, but it is too steep and rugged for rounders, cricket or football; it has no shadow from the heat, no shelter from the storm, no swings for the youngsters, and positively has not a single drinking fountain.

To the people in the Hotwells Road its no doubt of some use, but for us and our children it might as well be in China.

“Lay out such a Park in flower plots; at present we see little better than daisies and dandelions. What we want is a place near at hand, where we can feel the grass under our feet, or sit with our wives on a summer’s even and watch our children play.”

Unluckily, South Bristol lacked a generous benefactor who could bestow a park. In fact, the main landowner, Sir John Smyth of Ashton Court, was seen as neglectful, profiting from his Dean Lane colliery while letting the parish church of St John in Bedminster crumble.

A visitor to Bedminster, Joseph Leech, castigated Smyth for this in a public letter of 1844: “You are a rich man and a churchman; you derive large rents from the parish; you’re Lord of the Manor; and out of your thousands and thousands a year you would not feel the comparative trifle required to set the sacred edifice in order.”

So the Smyth fortune would be no help (though the family did later give land for Greville Smyth Park in Ashton).

But in their neglect lay an opportunity. The land which is now Victoria Park had not been built on and the field boundaries could still be seen. Though the Smyths owned most of the 42 acres, when Sir John died in 1849 there were legal problems in proving ownership before that.

This may be why, that during the decades it took to establish the park, there was no building there (except along the eastern edge on St Luke’s Road, where there was once a row of houses).

It may also be that it was too marshy for housing.

Once many parks had their own lido like the one at Victoria Park, with changing cubicles along the side The pressure for the land at Windmill Hill to become a park began to grow. In 1875 the Western Daily Press said that land for recreation was as important as public roads.

In 1882 Sir Greville Smyth agreed to give land for the park in Ashton which still bears his name. But still there was nothing planned for Windmill Hill. For a time it looked as if the Ashton park would be seen as adequate for the whole of South Bristol.

There were calls too for a park for St Philip’s, which had hardly any open space, but this had to wait.

F

inally, in August 1887, the council’s Sanitary Committee – for parks were genuinely seen as a health measure – agreed to borrow up to £20,000 to buy the land at Windmill Hill. The Western Daily Press noted: “On the Bristol side of the railway there are densely crowded streets inhabited by people who have at present easy access to the open fields proposed to be acquired, but who would suffer a real deprivation if the hill, like most other land in the neighbourhood, were to be acquired for building. This would make a splendid park.”

In September 1887, a meeting

of ratepayers, held at St Luke’s church, which then stood on York Road, passed a resolution: “This meeting expresses its great satisfaction for the acquisition of land at Windmill Hill, as it is convinced that such extensive grounds in so very convenient a situation, will promote in a marked degree the health, comfort and pleasure of many thousands of the citizens.”

Not all the citizens, of course, had a voice. The ratepayers’ meeting probably excluded the working men who had written the Cry of the Poor, and probably women too. Perhaps this is why, though the workers had called for a People’s Park, when it came it was named – by the ratepayers – Victoria Park, after the Queen.

It was a popular name, no doubt, but it is a curiosity of English democracy that so many public places are named for the aristocracy or royalty. There are very few People’s Parks in England – though they exist in Grimsby, Halifax and Banbury.

The ratepayers were not ignorant of working people’s demands, however. A park was not just a green space: it was somewhere to drink clean water – hence the request for drinking fountains. It could also be somewhere to get clean. A Mr A

Froud told the meeting that “he cared nothing for handsome buildings, and the people did not, but an open bathing place would be most desirable.”

This was a pressing need, because no working class homes had a bathroom. There were public baths just across the New Cut at Clarence Road, but they tended to be used by women and children. Men preferred to swim – naked – in the river or harbour, despite the unwholesome water.

In 1857 a correspondent to the Bristol Mercury said he had seen 200 or more nude bathers in the harbour. The people were allowed to bathe in Victoria Park – eventually.

It took a while for the land to be purchased, and naturally the costs rose. Sir Greville Smyth added £18,000 to his fortune for the sale of his land, which was to become the major portion of the park, in 1889. A Mr WS Gore Langton was paid £2,600 for the 7.5 acres which he owned.

Finally, in 1891, a small piece of land on St Luke’s Road, which provided the only entrance between the houses next to the railway, was bought from William Vowles for £320. It was much more than the other landowners had received per Continued on page 32

Got a story or any other inquiry? Call Paul on 07811 766072 or email paul@southbristolvoice.co.uk

February 2017

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n HISTORY

The swimming pool was literally a lifesaver – “men working on the Quay are drowned because they never learned to swim”

Continued from page 31 acre, but at least the council had beaten him down from his demand for £350.

Paths and flowers At last the park took shape.

Dwarf stone walls were built on the boundary, topped with iron railings. Eight heavy stone gateways were all locked at night.

Flower beds were planted and paths laid out. Where the paths crossed near the lodge, a huge drinking fountain made of iron was constructed, donated by local councillor William Terrett.

Another fountain of granite was at the Park Avenue entrance.

The bandstand Halfway down the hill near Nutgrove Avenue was the centrepiece, a bandstand. Built in 1890, this hosted countless concerts. Many of the players were local, including the Bristol South Brass Band, Totterdown Band, Bristol South Military Band and the Salvation Army.

Children It was not all sweet music: the park rangers (at one stage there were four of them) were hard put to stop children shouting and disrupting the concerts. This carried on the tradition of the Bedminster urchins (see panel).

The swings and seesaws were in constant use, so much that it was thought they encouraged children to skip school.

Conveniences The park was laid out with six urinals, but it seems they weren’t well used. Men were assumed to be at work during the day, and a need was recognised for toilets for women and children.

Conveniences for all were included when the Lodge was opened, with a resident park keeper, in 1900.

Tennis Tennis has always been popular in the park. By 1905 there were 18 courts. In 1899 the residents of Nutgrove Avenue were refused permission to fence off their own

The story of Victoria Park The park at war The cannon may not have fired, but Victoria Park was part of Bristol’s defences in the Second World War. A barrage balloon was tethered near Hill Avenue to deter low-flying German bombers – there were others in Perrett Park and across Bristol.

Late in the war a hutted army camp next to Hill Avenue housed American GIs. And from 1942 15 acres were turned over to “Dig for victory” allotment plots, mainly near St Luke’s Road. They were unfenced, but it’s said there were no thefts of produce.

Free drink: This giant iron drinking fountain was one of two in the park grass courts. Similarly the pupils at Victoria Park private school, which was at 31 Nutgrove Avenue from 1894 to 1934, were allowed to play tennis on the playground, but did not get exclusive use.

Trees So many trees were planted that in 1907 the Bristol Ratepayers complained about the cost. But the many limes, oak and plane trees have given the park its character, and whenever one has to be felled because of age or disease, people mourn or even protest at their loss.

The double line of limes along Nutgrove Avenue may have been at the request of the larger households there. Another line of limes surrounded the bandstand.

Swimming The people’s wish for bathing was satisfied in 1905 when an open air pool was opened near the corner of St Luke’s Road and Hill

YOU CAN’T DO THAT HERE WHEN Victoria Park was opened in 1891, there were 32 bylaws.

Among the rules enforced by park wardens were: • No bill posting; • No stone throwing; • No tents; • No bull, cow, ox, heifer, steer, calf, pig, hog, sow, sheep or lamb in the park without permission (this was a time when many city dwellers kept pigs); • Gates locked at 10pm (5.30pm November-February);

Avenue, 120 feet long and 35 feet wide – roughly 40m by 11m. This was literally a lifesaver, for it allowed children to learn to swim.

The Cry of the Poor had noted: “Every year precious lives are lost in the tempting but dangerous places to which we and our boys are driven by the vigilance of the police; and men working on the Quay are drowned because they never learned to swim.”

The cannon A huge naval gun stood between the rose beds near the Lodge. It’s often stated to have been a relic from the Crimean war of 1853-56, but this is disputed.

The cannon, like the park railings, were removed during the Second World War. The idea was that the metal could be recast for military use. But it was found to be of too low quality; the effort was useless.

• No bathing, wading or washing in pond; • No airing or beating of carpets; • No public address; • No musical instruments without permission; • No selling without permission.

Among other things, the rules meant public meetings were banned – a debate to overturn this was held by the council in 1891, but the vote was lost.

Even temperance (nonalcoholic) drinks could not be sold, and the National Women’s Social and Political Union was barred from selling its weekly journal.

I

Still popular in the 21st century n its third century of existence, Victoria Park is as well appreciated as ever.

Some of the attractions – such as the swimming baths and the bandstand – are long gone. Many remain, and there are continuous improvements, such as the two playgrounds, and Mrs Brown’s Café. Many of the changes are guided by the Victoria Park Action Group or VPAG, one of the most active groups of park volunteers in the city.

VPAG is open to new ideas: it’s trying out a voluntary dogs-on-leads zone near the playground, and members have been active in nurturing wildlife, from a Bioblitz in 2015 that involved hundreds of people and identified hundreds of species, to the planting of wildflower meadows and a willow arch.

There are challenges ahead, not least the council’s proposal for a 4.7m wide cycle route which has split opinion (see pages 6-7).

Shaun Hennessy, chair of VPAG, is working on a plan which could bring major improvements.

He expects to submit a bid for more than £1 million in Lottery funds early this year, aiming to renovate the Lodge and provide new toilets, a permanent café and community room. There would be a heritage trail, with an app to guide people via their smartphones, and displays about the park’s history in the lodge.

There’s even a chance the bandstand could be reinstated.

Among other plans, the park is soon to acquire replacements for its worn-out wooden exercise equipment – monkey bars, logs to balance on and the like.

Another new addition this year will be a Roctagon – a kind

To advertise, contact sales@southbristolvoice.co.uk or Ruth on 07590 527664

February 2017

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n HISTORY

The story of Victoria Park

THE SCHOOL OF LAST RESORT

I

N THE mid-19th century there weren’t enough school places to go around. Bedminster was infamous for its hordes of unruly children, many of whose parents were no doubt working all hours in the mines or factories.

The Elementary Education Act of 1880 made schooling compulsory between the ages of five and 10 – though many children still worked.

But some children were considered too ill to attend school.

In 1845, Bedminster was one of the least sanitary areas in the city – and Bristol itself was the third least-healthy city in the country.

As sanitation improved, cholera and typhoid declined, but disease still claimed many young lives.

Chronically ill children were not thought worth schooling, until after the First World War it was decided that they could be taught outdoors, where it was believed the fresh air would do them good.

The decision was taken in 1920 of advanced climbing frame that can be enjoyed by adults as well as children. A debate is being had about the best site for this.

Among the many events held in Victoria Park these days are Dark Sky nights – the park is so big that it’s one of the few places in the city suitable for stargazing.

The active Wildlife Group will continue its work, and Forest School sessions enable children to enjoy getting messy outdoors.

The annual fun day in September is always popular; there’s the active bowls club and much-used tennis courts and football pitches; and that’s without considering the hundreds of people who enjoy the park every day, whether on foot, on a bike, to play games, walk the dog or have a picnic.

Then of course there are the proposals for the cycleway, which are opposed by many in VPAG but welcomed by many (though not all) in the cycling community.

Whatever the result of the cycling controversy, Shaun is certain that the park will remain as important to the people who live near it as it was to the South Bristolians of the 1890s.

“The park is a huge part of people’s lives – it’s the centre of life for a lot of people around here,” he said. “People have a great love for it. It’s not a

The bandstand: Once thought suitable as a school for sick children to open two outdoor schools in Bristol, in Victoria and Eastville parks, “for delicate children”.

On June 21, only three months after plans were begun, the destination park – you can’t see it from a main road. It’s a people’s park. For the schools around here, it’s the place everything revolves around.”

It’s this massive well of affection for Victoria Park which explains, Shaun believes, why people get so upset when major – or even minor – changes are proposed. As this article was being written, the Voice was told about a number of children who’d been in tears at the disappearance of the shrubbery they used to play in (story, page 6). Protests resulted to the council.

Victoria Park is not alone, of course: many people feel passionate about their local open space. Perhaps they feel like Bill Shankly felt about football – it’s not a matter of life and death, it’s more important than that.

Sources The Voice is indebted to: • Victoria Park Action Group vpag.org.uk • Barb Drummond: Victoria Park, The People’s Park, 2008. £4 from barbdrum.webs.com • Bristol Record Society: Municipal Government of Bristol 1851-1901 • The Open-Air Schools of Bristol and Gloucester, J Shorey Duckworth, 2005, Bristol & Gloucestershire Archeological Society bgas.org.uk

Victoria Park open air class was opened with 29 children and a teacher, Miss Rendell.

The classroom was the bandstand – hardly well-protected

from the weather, especially as classes didn’t stop in the winter.

A teacher’s log, preserved in Bristol Record Office, records that in December 1921, “during very cold weather the class takes frequent exercises to keep up their circulation.”

In March 1928 the weather was “intensely cold. On Tuesday and Wednesday the ink was frozen into solid blocks so we could do no written work.”

In February 1929, only 13 children turned up after a blizzard; there was 2ft (61cm) of snow in the park.

The teacher fretted about the children’s constant exposure to wind and rain, and asked for Wellington boots. But the classes carried on, still in the bandstand, though a similar school at Knowle was given a wooden building.

The fad for fresh air, at least for TB cases, persisted until after the Second World War. But thankfully for the Victoria Park children, they were moved in 1940 to a solid building in Novers Lane.

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Got a story or any other inquiry? Call Paul on 07811 766072 or email paul@southbristolvoice.co.uk

February 2017

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n FEATURES

The comedian’s comedian lands in BS4 West Country comic Stuart Goldsmith has forsaken London for the quiet life with his young family in Totterdown.

Which has given him some new material, finds Beccy Golding

thing!” and felt he could do well if he continued to “work hard, write hard, watch stuff, listen to people.

“All my stuff is autobiographical. My life was 99 per cent stand-up, I was necessarily self-absorbed, but I also knew I wanted a child. I left London, having been ‘tricked by a cunning girl’, and had a baby.

Now I can’t just look out of the window and think… which is where jokes come from.”

His show – Compared to What? – is about “realising you’re not the main character anymore. You’re not the star in your own life, not the lead character… I’m the roadie!”

Stu’s tour consists of the show which he performed at Edinburgh last year, and some newer material, followed by a Q&A about his podcast.

D

O YOU know the one about the standup comedian who tours internationally, has a tremendously respected podcast with 6.5 million downloads to date, and lives right here in South Bristol? He’s appearing at the Comedy Box at the Hen and Chicken on North Street on March 10th.

Stuart Goldsmith’s been living in Totterdown for a year, having moved here from London.

Though actually he was born in Chipping Sodbury and lived in Downend as a child. “Like many comics,” he told me, “I grew up in the suburbs and went straight to the big city.”

Stuart moved here with his partner and young baby (code-named Boutros) and is “impressed. I love it. And as a new dad, we have neighbours

T

Stuart Goldsmith: coming to terms with Totterdown, among other things

and new parents that we actually speak to.” Stu’s new show is about leaving London, “coming to

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terms with not having the whole world on your doorstep, and how much compromise is too much.”

Stu’s route to stand-up started with street theatre. Before leaving for London he want to Circomedia, the well-known Bristol school of circus and physical theatre. After he and a mate had “learnt the secret of walking on broken glass,” they went on to “entry-level carny stuff” like juggling and firebreathing. And started performing at Edinburgh Fringe.

“I did 10 years at Edinburgh doing street shows during the day and watching comedians at night. At some point I thought ‘I can’t not try this any more’.”

Eventually, at 27, he did his first ever stand-up gig and thought “Oh my god, I’ve found my

he Comedian’s Comedian is Ricky Gervais’s favourite podcast. Prolific and legendary podcaster Richard Herring says he prefers it to his own. ComComPod, as its known, consists of one-to-one in-depth conversations between Stu and another stand-up comedian.

“It’s a rigorous, well-researched investigation into creativity.”

Guests (“people who I think are brilliant”) discuss their process - how they write, how they find their voice, how they ‘find the funny’ – as well as their journey, and their mental health. It’s a fascinating insight into the inspiration, imagination and lives of the people who make us laugh. Definitely recommended.

On March 10 Stu brings his show to the Hen & Chicken, “a brilliant venue that is very dear to my heart. I’ve done gigs there a couple of times a year all this time. Steve Lount (the organiser) is a long-term supporter.” The audience will include comedian mates, local fans and new Bristol friends who know him as a dad and neighbour first.

The tour, with dates in the UK, Ireland, and a stint at the Melbourne International Comedy Festival, has 58 dates in total.

“I’ve got to remember it’s all I’ve ever wanted, and to do it one step at a time. It’s a big tour, a massive moment. I’m travelling hopefully and I can’t wait!”

• comedianscomedian.com/tour

To advertise, contact sales@southbristolvoice.co.uk or Ruth on 07590 527664

Buying + Selling

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If you’re looking to buy a flat in South Bristol this year, there’s a good chance you’ll view at least one of the many new apartment developments, or an older property that’s been divided up.

Most of these properties will be leasehold rather than freehold – as will some houses – and there’s often some misunderstanding about what this means.

Whilst you shouldn’t let popular misconceptions about leasehold properties put you off, it’s still important to understand how they differ from freehold before you invest in one.

Leasehold means that you own the property, but the land on which it stands belongs to the freeholder.

In a nutshell, if you’re a leaseholder you own and are responsible for maintaining everything within the property’s four walls. Freehold, on

the other hand, would mean that you own the land upon which the property stands.

So if you own the leasehold on your property, what happens? The lease between you and the freeholder will outline your rights and obligations and entitle you to occupy the property for as long as it lasts – generally this will be hundreds of years in the case of new properties, but with older buildings your solicitor will need to check the time left on the lease carefully before you commit to buying.

Owning the leasehold will also commit you to paying costs such as ground rent (usually a nominal sum) and service charges, which can range from a few hundred pounds each year to thousands.

Identifying whether a lease exposes you to costs such as this is part of your solicitor’s job.

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February 2017

n WHAT’S ON Thursday February 2 n Manipulate: Scotland’s international visual theatre festival Tobacco Factory theatre, 8pm. The double bill of word-free drama includes La Causeuse, in which a young woman revisits a sordid and doomed romance: as wandering hands seduce and frolic, she dances with her inner demons.

The second piece, Cloth, explores a woman’s dreams and desires, using visual imagination and physical skills to create a unique poetic world. With no spoken dialogue, this evening is fully accessible to the deaf and hearing-impaired. £13 and £9.

• tobaccofactorytheatres.com n Andy Zaltzman: Plan Z Described as “political comedy at its best” by the Sunday Times, Andy brings his new show to the Comedy Box at the Hen & Chicken. He addresses diverse issues such as the past, the present, the future, body surfing and the unending volcano of confused fury that is modern global politics. 8.45pm, £12 • thecomedybox.co.uk n Terry & Gerry The Thunderbolt, Bath Road, Totterdown. The Birminghambased cult skiffle cow-punk band reform for a tour in honour of their biggest fan, the late John Peel. 7.30 pm, tickets £9 and £10.

• thethunderbolt.net Friday February 3 n Susan Calman: The Calman Before the Storm Comedy Box at the Tobacco Factory, 8pm; also on February 4. Familiar from shows including QI and radio 4’s News Quiz, Susan Caiman appears here life-size – for information Susan is taller than a borrower but shorter than the average 13 year-old. Incidentally she would also like to be Batman. £16.50.

• tobaccofactorytheatres.com n Jerry Dammers The Specials frontman and founder of Two Tone records brings his legendary record collection to The Thunderbolt, Bath Road, Totterdown, for a DJ set. Support

by Roy Strong. 7.45pm. £10.

• thethunderbolt.net Saturday February 4 n David O’Doherty: Big Time Comedy Box at the Tobacco Factory, 4pm. Known as the Aldi Bublé, the Ryanair Enya – David O’Doherty is delighted to present a brand new show of talking and songs played on a crappy keyboard from 1986. £17.50.

Making it up as they go – but on top form REVIEW Carl Donnnelly, Stand Up for the Weekend, Comedy Box at the Hen & Chicken WATCHING Carl Donnolly’s stand-up is like hanging out with your best funniest mate when he’s absolutely on-form.

He’s casual, comfortable and very funny. Also frank, open and charmingly honest about himself and his foibles.

He was clearly (he told us) improvising plenty of it, playing with ideas – just going with it - but merged this in with other more rehearsed stuff so you couldn’t see the joins – I’d heard one of his bits before, but didn’t recognise it at first, so natural was his style. And as an audience it feels extra special when you feel your headliner is creating content right there and then, especially for you.

Compere Paul Macafrey did Note that David is also playing two evening shows at the Old Vic on Febuary 3 and 4.

• tobaccofactorytheatres.com n Mike Silver Saltcellar Folk Club, basement of Totterdown Baptist Church, Wells Road, Totterdown. “Songs of experience and observation combine with an easy rapport and a fund of stories.” Tickets £5. BYO alcohol, soft drinks on sale.

• saltcellarfolk.org.uk n The Dockside Latin Orchestra SouthBank Club, Dean Lane, Southville. Featuring Colombian singer Elpidio Alegria, a new 17-piece orchestra featuring the best of the Bristol Latin music scene, playing salsa, mambo and Latin jazz. £11 advance, £12 on the door. 8-11pm.

• southbankclub.webs.com n Go Go Children The 60s club night at Fiddlers, Willway Street, Bedminster, marks its ninth birthday with an all-nighter from 9pm-6am. Soul, r ’n’ b and more from DJs including Alan Handscombe and Dave Rimmer.

Tickets £12 in advance.

• fiddlers.co.uk Sunday February 5 n Dr Phil Hammond: Dr Phil’s Health Revolution Comedy Box at the Tobacco

a grand job at warming us up and getting us laughing, with some classic banter with front-row audience members, and some spot-on observational stuff that really resonated.

Dana Alexander is a black Canadian female comic, so not your average stand-up. Her set included some wry observations on travelling, children and relationships – between men and women, black and white. Some of it near the knuckle, thought-

provoking; some of it laugh-outloud dirty.

This was a Stand Up For The Weekend session at the Comedy Box, above the Hen & Chicken on North Street. These Saturday shows are on most weeks and feature three professional circuit comedians – a 45-minute set from the headliner, a 30-minute set from the opening act and a compere introducing and gathering it all together. On these club-style nights the room is set up cabaret-style, with tables for six, so you can put your drinks down, and a bar which is open before the show and during the interval.

Tables are first-come, first-served. Arriving about 30 minutes before the start got us a great spot, not right at the front, but not too far back (it’s a big room, with 25 tables in all).

Whether you’ve heard of the acts or not, Stand up for the Weekend shows are guaranteed to deliver top-quality comedy on our doorstep.

Beccy Golding • thecomedybox.co.uk

Factory, 8pm. NHS doctor, BBC broadcaster, Private Eye journalist and whistle-blowing comic Dr Phil combines both of his 2016 sell-out Edinburgh fringe shows in one. £15.50. Note: sold out, but consult the website.

• thecomedybox.co.uk Monday February 6 n Joey Landreth The Tunnels, Temple Meads. Raised on the Canadian prairies, Joey Landreth has played music from gospel to country, and at 25 joined forces with his brother to form The Bros Landreth, winning acclaim from the BBC’s Whispering Bob Harris. See him launch his solo career. 7.30pm, £12.

• thetunnelsbristol.co.uk Thursday February 9 n Murder, She Didn’t Write Wardrobe Theatre, Old Market, until February 11; presented in conjunction with Tobacco Factory Theatres. An improvised murder-mystery in which the players from Degrees of Error use audience suggestions to create a unique Agatha Christieinspired masterpiece. 8pm, £8.

• tobaccofactorytheatres.com n Songdog + Steve Bush & Fran Fey The Thunderbolt, Bath Road, Totterdown. Songdog play dark, folk-tinged songs by Lyndon

Morgans; their recent single It’s Not A Love Thing has been played on BBC Radio 2 and 6 Music.

Supported by Voice favourites Bush & Fey. 7.30pm, £10.

• thethunderbolt.net Friday February 10 n John Hegley + Diego Brown and The Good Fairy The Thunderbolt, Bath Road, Totterdown. 7.45pm. John Hegley is an Edinburgh Fringe favourite for countless years, called “Comedy’s poet laureate” by the Independent. Diego Brown and The Good Fairy were once described as “the most surreal musical experience since the Bonzo Dog Doo Dah Band”.

7.30pm, £10.

• thethunderbolt.net Saturday February 11 n Yoga with Katy Arnos Vale cemetery, 9.30-11.30 am.

Monthly yoga sessions which aim to rediscover a free form of movement through your body and spine, helping to restore natural vitality. Cost: £20 or three sessions for £50.

• arnosvale.org.uk n Music for Wellbeing workshop Windmill Hill City Farm, 10am-12.30pm. Join musicians and music therapists Kim Roberts and Judit Soler for a

Dana Alexander: near the knuckle

To advertise, contact sales@southbristolvoice.co.uk or Ruth on 07590 527664

February 2017

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n WHAT’S ON Why should age make you give up on the groove?

REVIEW Never Too Old to Disco IT’S JUST another Saturday morning in a church hall in Knowle... a dozen or so mostly middle-aged women milling about... an air of expectancy… and then Zoe Sharples, teacher and choreographer, starts showing us the moves. DISCO! Never Too Old To Disco is a once-a-month session held in the Charles Padfield centre, in the newly refurbished Victoria Park Baptist church hall on St John’s Lane. It’s a nice space, light and bright, and the atmosphere is friendly and informal. Zoe told creative music workshop to explore ways of using music to enhance your health and wellbeing. Discover how to use music to encourage selfexpression, self-awareness and relaxation with a range of easy musical activities. For over 18s; no musical skills required. Fee £12.21 (concessions) or £13.33.

• windmillhillcityfarm.org.uk n Doreen Doreen Bristol’s good-times band are back at the Fiddlers, Willway Street, Bedminster. 8pm-2am. Tickets £10 in advance, £12 on the door.

• fiddlers.co.uk n The Atomic Rays The Tunnels, Temple Meads. “For over a decade The Atomic Rays have been one of the most popular acts on the Bristol circuit, playing a completely unexpected selection of covers with flamboyance, theatre and energy.” Mixing Bowie with the Stones, The Who with Nick Cave, Muse with Deep Purple and The Temptations with Glen Campbell.

7.30pm, £8.

• thetunnelsbristol.co.uk Sunday February 12 n The Girl & the Giraffe Tobacco Factory presentation at Bristol Grammar School’s 1532 theatre; also on February 13 and 14. “One day while Girl is playing in her garden, she spots something peculiar … Giraffe! As their friendship grows, Girl discovers that Giraffe isn’t very well; but he needs a different

Making a move: Zoe Sharples’s all-age disco has proved to be a big hit me she’d been brewing up this idea for the last five years or so – as you get older the chance to just have a good old dance seems to decrease – we go to fewer live gigs maybe, perhaps we don’t feel confident clubbing with

people the age of our own grown-up children, or have the stamina to stay out as late as we used to – so where do we go to get moving to some great tunes?

This is the gap Zoe wanted to fill – and she’s done a great job.

kind of plaster for the things you can’t see. Puppetry, an enchanting soundscape and beautiful storytelling combine.

Ages 3+ 45 minutes, £8.

• tobaccofactorytheatres.com Monday February 13 n Guess how much I love you? A Stomping Story activity for children at Arnos Vale cemetery, 12.45-1.30 pm. Also on February 15 at 10.30am and 12.45pm. A well-loved classic told in the beautiful outdoors plus a crafty activity. Suitable for ages 3+. Child tickets £5, babies and toddlers go free with a paying sibling. Parents do not need to purchase tickets.

• arnosvale.org.uk n Den Building Family Fun Arnos Vale cemetery, 2.303.30pm. Learn how to make a fantastic den out of natural and man-made materials. Tickets £10 per family – up to 2 adults and 3 children. Session is led by Forest School Leader Janine Marriott.

• arnosvale.org.uk Tuesday February 14 n Lego Days at Zion Roll up for half-term fun at Zion Bristol, Bishopsworth Road, for young fans of Lego. From 10am-12noon on February 14 and February 15.

A morning of imaginative building fun, games and competitions with prizes for different age groups, all Lego supplied, and Duplo for the little ones. £2 per child, café open.

• zionbristol.co.uk

Thursday February 16 n Forest Funday Arnos Vale cemetery, 11am-3pm. “Be inspired, have fun and prepare to get messy.” The forest school is a fun-filled day of trying out a range of nature-inspired activities and games, exploration and bushcraft including hapa zome (dyeing), wand-making (whittling) and den-building – all dependent on the weather. Led by teacher and qualified forest school leader, Janine Marriott.

For ages 7+. £20 per child.

• arnosvale.org.uk

Othello Tobacco Factory, until April 1. The Shakespeare at the Tobacco Factory season kicks off with Othello, a tragedy that seems startlingly relevant.

Othello, played by Abraham Popoola, is a Muslim general hired by Venice to fight its battles. But in a society riven by discrimination, fear and mistrust, and manipulated

by Iago, Othello’s life quickly unravels. Tickets £16-24.

• tobaccofactorytheatres.com Friday February 17 n Dap Disco – the Mixtape

Zoe has selected some fab soul and disco tracks from the 70s, 80s or 90s, including Yes Sir I Can Boogie by Baccara, the Bee Gees’ Saturday Night Fever and put them together with classic dance steps – creating choreography that’s fun and easy to learn (roughly – it doesn’t matter if you’re not perfect).

Within a few minutes she’s taught us a whole sequence of moves so we can dance to the entire track. And it feels great. I might even have Whooped at the end of one or two of them.

Zoe closes the hour-long session with Saturday Night Fever and boy, are we in the groove! I think everyone in the room was channelling their inner Travolta – I certainly was.

And I’ll be back to feel the beat again – it’s from 10.45-11.45am on the second Saturday of the month. £7.

Beccy Golding • nevertoooldtodisco@gmail.com Years! Zion Bristol, Bishopsworth Road, presents old skool tunes including pop, indie, funk and hip-hop. It’s billed as an alternative disco on your doorstep for those who miss the dancing but not the sticky floors and toilet queues at clubs in town. Bar open all night, over 18s only. Food from Rib Street includes pulled pork, brisket beef, cheesy chips and veggie dogs. 7.30-11pm, £3.

• zionbristol.co.uk Saturday February 18 n Zoe Lyons, Stand up for the Weekend Comedy Box at the Hen & Chicken, North Street, Southville. TV regular Zoe Lyons headlines the regular Saturday night show, with guests. Tickets £11 advance, £13 on the day.

8.45pm (doors 7.45pm).

• thecomedybox.co.uk Sunday February 19 n Chosen Wedding Fair Paintworks, Bath Road.

“Uninspired and looking for that something that’s uniquely you?

Join us for a day of discovery and inspiration, celebrating local designer maker and vintage talent.” 11am-4.40pm, tickets £3 in advance, £4 on the door.

• play.paintworksbristol.co.uk n The Ultimate Michael Jackson Tribute SouthBank Club, Dean Lane, Southville.

With Ryan Briggs. 7.30pm, tickets £7.

• southbankclub.webs.com Continued on page 39

Got a story or any other inquiry? Call Paul on 07811 766072 or email paul@southbristolvoice.co.uk

Bristol’s Largest Indoor Window and Door Showroom is Open at Crystal Clear

WINDOWS • DOORS • CONSERVATORIES • ROOFLIGHTS

View the extensive range of stunning designer and traditional doors, windows and rooflights at Crystal Clear’s showroom or online at www.crystalclearbristol.co.uk ✓ Extensive Showroom ✓ Striking Designs, offering Low Upkeep, Energy Efficiency, Ease of Use and High Security ✓ PVCu, Aluminium, Sliding Sash and Casement Windows ✓ Composite, Bi-fold, Sliding, French, Stable and Patio Doors ✓ Exclusive Supplier of the MODO Collection from Apeer ✓ Established Local Company with an Excellent Reputation

✓ Secondary Glazing ✓ Experienced Team ✓ Free Quotations ✓ DGCOS Founder Member ✓ GGF and Trustmark Member ✓ Registered with BM Trada and BFRC ✓ Swish Authorised Installer

To find out more, please call us on:

0117 911 2130 or visit www.crystalclearbristol.co.uk www.facebook.com/crystalclearbristol

24 Emery Road, Brislington, Bristol BS4 5PF

To advertise, contact sales@southbristolvoice.co.uk or Ruth on 07590 527664

February 2017

southbristolvoice

39

n WHAT’S ON Continued from page 37 Monday February 20 n Art and craft Windmill Hill City Farm, 9.45am-12.30pm or 1-3.45pm. Courses for people with mental health issues. For enquiries email nicky.bacon@ windmillhillcityfarm.org.uk or phone 0117 963 3255. 17 sessions (no classes April 10, April 18, May 1 or 30). Cost: £172 or free if in receipt of means tested benefits. Students are invited to

make a voluntary contribution of 50p per week for materials.

• windmillhillcityfarm.org.uk Wednesday February 22 n Pamper Night at Zion Allow yourself to be pampered at Zion Bristol, Bishopsworth Road.

Choose from reiki, Indian head massage, reflexology, facials, hot stones, nails and hand massage plus homeware gifts and crafts.

Treatments from £5 upwards, women only. Entry £2.50

n LOCAL SERVICES BUSINESS SOFTWARE

includes glass of bubbly. Bar open all evening.

• zionbristol.co.uk Sunday February 26 n Josie Long: Something Better Comedy Box at the Tobacco Factory, 4pm. A show about optimism and hopefulness and about looking for people and things to look up to. From the star of BBC Radio 4’s Romance and Adventure, All of the Planet’s Wonders and presenter of

Advertising on this page is very cost-effective. Call Ruth on 07590 527664 CYCLE SHOP

• PLUMBER • BUILDER • SURVEYOR • AUDITOR

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07817 390942 | 0117 971 2050 magic5software magic5software.co.uk

Carpet/Upholstery Cleaning Carpets dry in 30 minutes!

Current Offer

CARPETS

1 Room 3 Rooms Whole House

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£35* £60* £80*

1 Armchair £20* 1 Sofa £30* Rugs £5 to £20*

Call Nick / Alison at A.Cleaning Service on:

07812 730346

www.a-cleaningservice.com

*PRICES ARE EXCLUDING VAT

FiTNESS

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Griffin Electrical

Shortcuts. Tickets £15.50. Note evening show is sold out.

• thecomedybox.co.uk

CARPET CLEANING

Do you work on the move?

Then you need a magic5 app ...

Josie Long: A dose of optimism at the Tobacco Factory

Sully CYCLES

• Traditional bike shop with over 21 years of experience!

• We fix all types of bikes, we do bike maintenance classes and we have a savings club!

306 Wells Road, Knowle BS4 2QG 0117 980 3337 FLOORING

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YOUR TRUSTED LOCAL ELECTRICIAN

www.griffin-electrical.co.uk john@griffin-electrical.co.uk • Rewiring • Minor alterations • Security Lighting & Alarms 01275 832830 07831 534766 NICEIC Approved Contractor Member of Checkatrade.com

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consultation on Personal training post-natal recovery and classes CALL SIAN FLETCHER: 07804 238 070 •Sports massage•Injury rehabilitation •Pilates•Pre- and post-natal•Back pain sian@feelgoodfitness.org | feelgoodfitness.org PEST CONTROL

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South Bristol Mobile Foot Clinic

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Please contact Kim Brimble 07768 129 752 kim.brimble@icloud.com Kim Brimble S.A.C. Dip. FHPT S.A.C. Dip FHPP

07771 503107 YOUR LOCAL PEST CONTROL EXPERTS www.advancepestcontrolbristol.com info@advancepestcontrolbristol.com

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0117 9564912 **NO VAT** **O.A.P. DISCOUNTS**

Got a story or any other inquiry? Call Paul on 07811 766072 or email paul@southbristolvoice.co.uk

T: 07811 766072

southbristolvoice

www.southbristolvoice.co.uk

February 2017