South Bristol Voice Totterdown - December 2019

southbristolvoice

December 2019 December 2019

southbristolvoice

No. 55

www.southbristolvoice.co.uk

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We Sell and Let Property Like Yours

WIDEST CIRCULATION IN SOUTH BRISTOL – 10,000 copies of this edition

FREE EVERY MONTH in Totterdown, Knowle and Windmill Hill New housing INSIDE in Knowle West Residents in Knowle West are being asked to share their views about early design proposals for new housing in the area.

The three sites earmarked for development include the old Filwood Broadway cinema, Leinster Avenue (next to KnowleDGE learning centre) and Kingswear Road.

The first round of public consultation will begin with two drop-in sessions on December 5 where residents will be able to view early proposals and layout options and give feedback.

The sessions will be held at: · Filwood Community Centre (dance studio), 2-4pm · Knowle West Media Centre (main studio), 5-7pm Feedback will help shape the plans as more detailed

Turn to Page 2

JOIN CONVERSATION ABOUT BEDMINSTER GREEN DEVELOPMENT Page 3 THE LOCAL CHIPPIES FRYING HIGH AFTER WINNING AWARD Page 5 CHRISTMAS FEATURE: GET READY FOR THE

Find out why Arnos Vale resident Sophie Patten is flying the Tanzanian flag. Turn to page 31 to read the full story.

ELECTION SPECIAL Meet the candidates who are vying for your vote on December 12. Pages 13-15

FESTIVE SEASON Pages 16-22 WHAT'S ON: FESTIVE EVENTS IN YOUR LOCAL AREA Pages 28-29

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Wishing you a very Merry Christmas from Ocean oceanhome.co.uk

Got a story for South Bristol Voice? Call Becky on 07912 484405 or email news@southbristolvoice.co.uk

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Contacts

Independent Community News Network member

Becky Day Editorial director 07912 484405 news@southbristolvoice.co.uk

Next month’s deadline for editorial and advertising is December 4.

Ruth Drury Sales director 07590 527664 sales@southbristolvoice.co.uk

December 2019

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n NEWS Have your say on proposals for new housing in Knowle West Continued from front page proposals are developed for each site. Representatives from the council and the design and planning teams will be available to talk through proposals, answer questions and listen to public feedback.

Rich Coulter Production director 07775 550607 info@southbristolvoice.co.uk

Consultation material will also be on display in other Knowle West Alliance venues, local libraries and online at bristol.gov.uk/housing/ new-council-homes from December 5. Final proposals are due to be submitted for planning in February/March 2020.

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Deliveries: Greg Champion

Follow us on social media:

on Facebook facebook.com/southbristolvoice on Twitter @sbristolvoice and on Instagram @southbristolvoice HOW DO I GET IN TOUCH WITH ...

My MP? Parliament has been dissolved in the build-up to the general election on December 12 and therefore, the Bristol South seat is now vacant. To find out more about the candidates who are contesting to be our next MP, turn to pages 13-15.

My councillor?

Post: You can write to all councillors at City Hall, College Green, Bristol BS1 5TR. Christopher Davies Lib Dem,

Knowle Email: Cllr.Christopher.

Davies@bristol.gov.uk Phone: 07826917714 Gary Hopkins Lib Dem, Knowle (Lib Dem deputy leader) Email: Cllr.Gary.Hopkins@bristol.gov.uk Phone: 07977 512159 Lucy Whittle Labour, Windmill Hill Phone: 07392 108805 Email: cllr.lucy.whittle@bristol.gov.uk Jon Wellington Labour, Windmill Hill 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 Pests, 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

COMPLAINTS Despite our best efforts, we sometimes get things wrong. We always try to resolve issues informally at first but we also have a formal complaints procedure. If you have a complaint about anything in the South Bristol Voice, contact the Editor using the details below. We aspire to follow the the Code of Conduct of the NUJ (National Union of Journalists), nuj.org.uk/about/nuj-code.

Further details of the complaints process can be found on our website (below) or can be obtained by contacting the Editor by email: news@southbristolvoice.co.uk or by post: 111 Broadfield Rd, Knowle, Bristol BS4 2UX or by phone: 0777 555 0607. southbristolvoice.co.uk/complaints-procedure All stories and pictures are ©South Bristol Voice (unless otherwise stated) and may not be reproduced without permission.

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n NEWS

How can we make Bedminster Green a great place to live?

Windmill Hill City Farm has organised an event to explore how the community might take control of space within the Bedminster Green development.

Residents are invited along to an informal open session at the farm's cafe on December 5, 6.30-9pm where organisers are hoping to "forge ideas" on how to make Bedminster Green a great place to live.

The farm says that it is putting itself forward as an "honest broker" in "advancing the cause of a good development".

Key figures in the development will lead table discussions before a conversation about next steps for a community hub within the Bedminster Green development.

What residents can expect: • To contribute ideas and opinions on the evolving proposal for community-owned

spaces across Bedminster Green • To see stakeholders coming together to sketch out the road map to implementing the ideas • To gain an understanding of barriers, enabling mechanisms, key decision makers and a timeline for implementation • An exploration of links to the wider city context, for example, One City Plan, Western Harbour development, local plan Throughout the evening the bar will be open and snacks will be available.

Tickets to the event are free and should be booked in advance at bit.ly/bedminster-greencommunity-hub.

More information about the event can be found at: windmillhillcityfarm.org. uk/about-us/projects/ bedminster-greencommunity-hub/

ST CATHERINE'S PLACE At the time South Bristol Voice went to print, the council's planning committee were due to make a decision on Firmstone's proposals to redevelop St Catherine's Place, as part of the wider Bedminster Green development.

As reported in the October issue of the Voice, Firmstone had made a U-turn on the height of the main tower block, reducing it from 22 to 16 storeys.

The development, which would include a £5m investment in the shopping complex and a three screen cinema, has since won the backing of the Bedminster Business Improvement District (BID).

But local campaigners contested that the changes to the development's height were not extensive enough.

The application - which was due to go the planning committee on November

20 - had been recommended for refusal by officers on the grounds that it 'fails to provide a sufficient level of affordable house'; 'would be unacceptable in design terms and impact on existing residential amenity'; 'compliance with the A38 corridor works has not been demonstrated'; and an agreed S106 contribution package the money invested back into the community to mitigate the impact of the development - had not been presented.

Director of Firmstone, Francis Firmstone, said that he was "deeply disappointed" with the planning officers' recommendation.

View of tower block from courtyard

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December 2019

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n NEWS

The plaice to eat! Local chippies win top award

Two local chippies are frying high after being crowned winners of the Good Chippy Award.

Farrows in Wells Road and Star Fish Bar in Bedminster Road were the only two takeaways in Bristol to win the prestigious Good Food Award for Fish and Chip Shops, which acknowledges the UK’s best chippies.

There were 200 winners of this award, selected out of 10,500 fish and chip shops nationally.

And we are fortunate enough to have two right here on our doorstep.

Top quality fish and chips is essential to qualify for the award, but value for money, consistent positive customer feedback and how highly the takeaway ranks among other competitors were all taken into consideration.

A top food hygiene score is also a must.

Entrance into the Good Food Award is by invitation only.

Customers are then encouraged

Farrows owner, Chris Reed to vote for their favourite chippy.

Chris Reed, who took over ownership of Farrows two years ago after having worked in fish and chip shops and restaurants since 1989, said: “There is so much going on here behind the scenes and we try and give the best quality fish and chips we can to people, so it’s good to have received the recognition.

“We try our best here to be sustainable, for example we got rid of our polystyrene chip trays and have replaced them with fully compostable trays.

“We like to keep things homemade, such as our tartar sauce and our fish cakes. A local butcher also provides our burgers ... we try and use local suppliers as much as possible.”

There are also exciting times ahead for Farrows as it is currently in the process of securing a second premises.

More details will be shared in the South Bristol Voice in the new year.

Ricardo Da Silva has been running Star Fish Bar in Bedminster Road for eight years – it is the first time his shop has won an award.

He said: “We received a letter from Good Food Award which we put on display to encourage customers to vote for us.

“I wanted to win it, so it was exciting news when we found out. We’re very happy to have won and it is good to know I am doing something right. If our customers are happy, that’s the main thing.”

Teresa Allen, who has worked at the chippy since it opened in 2011, said they regularly receive calls from customers, saying how much they enjoyed the food.

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Got a story for South Bristol Voice? Call Becky on 07912 484405 or email news@southbristolvoice.co.uk

December 2019

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n NEWS

Concern as a dozen homes earmarked for old boxing gym Proposals to redevelop an old boxing gym into 12 apartments in Tavistock Road have come under criticism by local residents.

The impact that it will have on parking and anti-social behaviour have been some of the concerns shared by residents.

The site, formerly Skemers Boxing Gym, is earmarked for eight one-bed apartments and four two-bed apartments.

Seven bays have been allocated at the rear of the development for parking and 16 spaces for bicycles.

Money made from the project will be invested into The Park community centre, which owns the site of the proposed development.

It is required that 25 per cent of the development is to be affordable housing, but a spokesperson for The Park says that the charity hopes to “increase this where possible”.

The plans were submitted in October following a consultation

CGI street view of proposed apartments in Tavistock Road with local residents during the summer.

At the time South Bristol Voice went to print, 16 objections and two neutral comments had been filed on the council’s planning website in response to the planning application.

Jan Braddon, who has lived on the road since 2001, said: “I’m not opposed to more housing, but it’s the intensity of it and there not being enough parking.

“I’ve lived through difficult times on this road, we’ve had gangs of lads throwing eggs,

excrement and soil at windows.

“This seems to have subsided now, but now they want to put this intense development next to us. They let us have a say and we know they need to raise funds for The Park but not to the detriment of the community.

“They need to be sensible and not have so many bed spaces and the correct number of parking.”

In a statement written in objection to the development, one resident said that they were “very distressed at the sudden prospect of over 30 people

crammed into the space of just two regular sized houses”.

Another resident commented that they were concerned that “not enough thought had gone into the parking requirements for visitors and residents of the new development”.

A spokesperson for The Park said: “The charity has been clear for some time that it needs to develop this for the longterm security of The Park by reinvesting any money made into the centre.

“After thorough consultation with local people The Park has prepared a sensitive plan for 12 apartments on the site with landscaping to the front.

“The planning permission requirements are for 25% of the development to be affordable housing. However, it is our hope to increase this where possible.”

The South Bristol Voice understands that the proposals are due to go to planning committee in the new year.

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n NEWS

Council debate held over Western Harbour petition

By Adam Postans, local democracy reporter

Plans for a massive revamp of Cumberland Basin have been branded “insane” amid fears they will “rob” communities of their heritage and way of life.

Opposition councillors blasted Bristol mayor Marvin Rees’s vision for the area renamed Western Harbour and urged him to ensure residents, who currently feel “ostracised” from the decision-making process, were fully involved.

Mr Rees said doing nothing was not an option and that local householders and businesses had already been engaged at the “earliest possible stage” and would continue to be.

He said a masterplan would not be completed for about two years and that it would take a third year to establish funding and planning agreements.

The debate at full council (November 12) was triggered by a 3,800-name petition, created

by Totterdown resident Suzanne Audrey, demanding the release of the feasibility report into the original nine options considered for the area’s regeneration, although that study has subsequently been published.

Bristol City Council is forging ahead with two of those, plus a hybrid of them, to demolish the complex 1960s road network connecting Ashton Gate with Hotwells over the River Avon.

The 'Western Option' would see a new bridge over the river to the west of where the River Avon New Cut joins the Floating Harbour.

An 'Eastern Option' has traffic flowing over a new bridge next to the Nova Scotia pub and a new bridge across the Avon into what is now the Riverside Garden Centre car park.

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'UNTHINKABLE TRAGEDY' A director at a garden centre which has come under threat by the Western Harbour plans, has urged the mayor to "find an alternative solution" which would allow the business to continue at its current site.

Steve Shaw, of Riverside Garden Centre, made the plea at a public meeting at City Hall in November.

He said that if the 'Eastern Option' goes ahead, the centre "would be obliterated" and that would be an "unthinkable tragedy" for the business.

He said that the support for the garden centre has been overwhelming.

At the same meeting, resident Suzanne Audrey expressed concerns about the membership of an advisory group set up to shape the direction of the harbour project. She asked why the group did not include any representatives from the Environment Agency or English Heritage, given the flood risks and heritage buildings associated with the area.

Mr Rees said the council was working with the Environment Agency separately and that

councillors and members of the public would be able to have their say via a wider “stakeholder group”.

The advisory group includes: • John Savage, Executive Chair of Bristol Chamber of Commerce & Initiative • James Durie, Business West • Simon Dicken, Bedminster BID • Martin Griffith, Ashton Gate • Kevin Bourner, Homes England • John Hirst, Destination Bristol • Alice Bond, Hope Community Church • Dennis Gornall, Cumberland Basin Stakeholder Group • Marti Burgess, City Centre Revitalisation Group • Paul Hassan, representing community organisations • Matthew Tanner, SS Great Britain • Ian Wilkinson, Underfall Yard • David Mellor, Architect • Paul Baker/Chris Grazier, Bristol Property Agents • Siena Jackson-Wolfe, Youth Mayor • Mohamed Aidid, Youth Mayor • David Carter, WECA • Lucy Shomali, North Somerset Council • Includes reporting by Amanda Cameron, LDRS reporter

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December 2019

n NEWS

Clarification still needed on streets affected by clean air plan

By Amanda Cameron, local democracy reporter South Bristol residents have still not been told exactly which streets could be affected by a proposed diesel car ban and clean air zone (CAZ) in the city.

Bristol City Council published its outline plans to reduce air pollution on October 28 and submitted them to the government on November 6.

But residents, whose lives will be dramatically affected by the plans, have still not seen a map showing the exact streets marking the boundaries of the two zones that have been drawn up.

The council has provided a high-level map of the ban area and CAZ but no street names are shown.

Despite numerous requests from the Local Democracy Reporting Service, the authority has still not provided a map showing the exact streets marking the borders and has failed to supply the names of the streets so the service can draw its own map.

A council spokesman has emphasised the council’s clean air plans are at the “outline” stage only and could well change before they are implemented in March 2021.

If accepted by the government, the outline plans will undergo further development and public

THE PROPOSALS

• All privately owned diesel vehicles would be banned from 1.26 square miles of the inner city (marked in the image by the purple dotted lines) between 7am and 3pm from

FREE inspections NO call-out fees

Clean Air Zone, non-compliant commercial vehicles charged to enter Area where private diesel vehicles are banned

A zoomed in view of the CAZ plan. Image: Bristol City Council consultation before the final plans are submitted in February 2020.

What we do know from the high-level map of the plans currently on the table is the diesel ban area takes in Cumberland Basin to the west, Cabot Circus to the north east and Temple Quay and St Mary Redcliffe to the south east.

Its north western border runs along Upper Maudlin Street past the Bristol Royal Infirmary and the Bristol Royal Children’s

Hospital and its south eastern boundary runs past Bristol Temple Meads railway station.

The proposed CAZ covers quite a large chunk of the city, including Cotham, Montpelier, St Philips Marsh, Southville, Bedminster and Ashton Gate.

The boundaries in the “outline business case” under consideration by the government were the fourth set developed by technical consultants Jacobs.

It is difficult to draw a

March 2021- a £60 fine could be incurred if the ban is breached, but this has not yet been decided by the council • Commercial vehicles, such as buses, lorries and taxis, that do

not meet emission standards would have to pay a charge of either £9 or £100 a day to enter the surrounding clean air zone, covering 5.61 miles (marked by the pink dashed lines).

complete picture of those boundaries from the published documents, but it is clear the edges of the CAZ were moved outwards to include more areas.

Major changes included extending the boundary: • up the Portway as far as Sylvan Way • northwards in Ashley Down to include Upper Belmont Road, Nottingham Road, Lancashire Road, Surrey Road, Derby Road, Sefton Park Road and Ashley Down Road from this junction • north-east to sit at the immediate end of the M32, just past junction 3 • south-west to include Ashton Vale.

Minor adjustments were made

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n NEWS YOUR VIEWS Katy Beth Slade: When businesses inevitably relocate outside of the ban zone - more unaffordable flats, apartments and student housing can be built on the land.

This isn’t really about ‘clean air’, it’s about changing the nature and demographic of our central areas and making a lot of money in the process.

Sarah Stone: Something’s got to be done to improve air quality so I think fair play to the council. Not to say it won’t have a direct impact on me and my family using the car at certain times, but on the flip side will make cycling and walking much nicer and safer too. The fumes on my walk/cycle to work atm are unbearable in heavy traffic.

Matt Campbell: In South Bristol, I’m specifically worried about lorries and vans travelling west-toeast deciding to divert via Novers Hill (a steep, narrow road without pavement, that in my grumpy opinion should already be a oneway with speed camera) to avoid

entering the Clean Air Zone and so avoid paying.

Kim Hicks: If only the council would work actively work with the bus companies to work towards affordable and efficient public transport. I believe that ‘encouragement’ to use public transport, where possible, is a far better way to reduce vehicles in the centre.

Barry Horton: It seems that many people have a special case for not wanting the ban of diesel cars in the city and perhaps if we’d been more sensible in the past with the unfettered growth of car ownership and increasing traffic we wouldn’t be in quite the position we are in. It wouldn’t matter what the council did or didn’t do, there are a lot of people who want to moan. Let’s make Bristol a green and great city and accept that we all have to play our part.

Mary Hutton: When you have the eye hospital/BRI/children’s hospital/ dental hospital/St Michael’s at the heart of the city. Also what if you our caring for a relative in town?

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Local Housing Forums for Bristol council tenants

They should have an exempt procedure in place for patients’ carers.

Rachel Herbert: It would impact my daughter’s school coach company massively. Already pay out £80 a month and according to the email received this afternoon, we’re looking at an increase of £40 a month. Just over £1200 a year!!!

My daughter is autistic so relies on this service. Can’t afford a huge increase.

Craig Norris: My biggest concern is that it will push the most polluting vehicles into the residential areas around the city centre so places like St John’s Lane will become even more congested and polluted. I notice areas like Kings Street are all ready like a Ghost town on a Sunday since the high parking charges, this will be another nail in the coffin for local businesses.

Also if they are going to charge buses £100 per day to enter the zone, then that will be passed onto the passengers making public transport even more unaffordable for families.

Loc a

to the diesel ban area in January with “boundaries being refined around properties that would fall inside or outside the zone,” according to the documents.

The council is under a legal obligation to reduce air pollution in the city by lowering toxic nitrogen dioxide (NO2) levels to within legal limits as quickly as possible.

It was among 24 local authorities given the order by the government in 2017.

Technical modelling shows the outline plans would reduce the city’s NO2 levels to within the legal limit by 2025.

The clean air plans have drawn broad support because of the urgent need to tackle air pollution, which is estimated to kill 300 Bristolians a year.

But many of the details have been criticised for the impact they would have on low-income families, hospital visitors, businesses in the centre and people living in areas outside the CAZ.

D 2019 ec

Area 5: Wednesday 4th December 2019,

Area 6: Monday 16th December 2019,

Bedminster, Brislington East, Brislington West, Knowle, Southville, Windmill Hill

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Your opinions help us make decisions! Come along and discuss your local housing services with the council. If you’re a council tenant, you can have your say on how the housing service is run and can make suggestions about improvements to shared council areas. Housing Officers will also be there to help you with your individual enquiries. FREE tea, coffee and biscuits provided. For information contact: Tenant Participation (0117) 3521444 or email tpu@bristol.gov.uk. All details at: www.bristol.gov.uk/LocalHousingForums.

Got a story for South Bristol Voice? Call Becky on 07912 484405 or email news@southbristolvoice.co.uk

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n NEWS South Bristol wins big at food awards Three local food organisations are celebrating after being crowned winners at a recent awards ceremony.

Community cookery school Square Food Foundation (SFF), Step and Stone, a bakery which works with young people with learning difficulties – both based at The Park in Knowle – and Wells Road vegan café Eat Your Greens received recognition at the 2019 Crumbs Awards, which acknowledges the South West’s best food businesses.

Step and Stone was named overall ‘Winner of Winners’ and won ‘Best Initiative’, SFF was awarded ‘Best Cookery School’ for the second year and Eat Your Greens won ‘Best Café’.

Operations manager at SFF, Eloise Morton (pictured bottom right with the SFF team), said: “Winning this award for two years in a row is a huge honour – especially against such stiff competition. We couldn’t be more delighted – it’s another

sign that we’re on the right track.

Food education is for everyone, not just the few. Everyone has a place at the table.”

Step and Stone founders Jane Kippax and Jane Chong (pictured top right with their award) said: “We were so thrilled to have won not just one but two Crumbs awards.

“It is absolutely amazing to have had the efforts of the whole team recognised in this way - and we’re obviously delighted about the opportunity to showcase the abilities of the young people we work with.”

As a registered charity, SFF raises funds to deliver free and subsidised cookery courses and workshops for charities, schools and community groups.

Step and Stone is a community interest company which helps develop the skills and confidence of young people with learning difficulties so they can find employment in the mainstream catering world.

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December 2019

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13

n ELECTION SPECIAL MEET THE CANDIDATES

ELECTION 2019

Andrew BROWN Liberal Democrats Occupation: Paraplanner within financial services

An election has been called this December - the first pre-Christmas election since 1923.

Parliament has now been dissolved and candidates standing for the Bristol South seat - which has been held by Labour since 1935 and party candidate Karin Smyth since 2015 - are now out on the campaign trail, vying for your vote on December 12.

As residents prepare to go the polls, South Bristol Voice has asked each of the prospective candidates to tell us in their own words why they should be our next MP, their priorities and how they would represent constituents.

All five of the main parties are contesting to become our next MP. The candidates include Andrew Brown (Liberal Democrats), Robert de Vito Boutin (Brexit Party), Tony Dyer (Green Party), Richard Morgan (Conservative Party) and Karin Smyth (Labour Party). The deadline to register to vote is 11.59pm on November 26.

In 2017 our MP voted to invoke Article 50, which initiated the Tory party’s Brexit negotiations with the EU. In 2019, a vote for me is a vote to revoke Article 50 and stop Brexit.

Stopping Brexit is just the start.

We need to tackle the Climate Emergency with a comprehensive package of measures including investing in clean energy so that 80% is renewable by 2030, insulating all low-income homes by 2025, and reducing Britain’s carbon emissions back to 1990 levels. To do it fairly, Liberal Democrats are proposing Citizens’ Assemblies and a “Just Transition Fund” so everyone can play their part and no-one is disadvantaged by the changes we all have to make.

We would build a brighter future: investing in our schools, providing childcare for every child from 9 months, giving adults a

£10,000 skills and training budget to use throughout their lives, and ensuring the NHS has the resources to treat mental health with the same urgency as physical health.

I am standing for the Liberal values of empowerment, fairness, and co-operation for the benefit of all in tackling the biggest issues: Brexit, Climate Change, and a fair deal for old and young alike.

Bristol South deserves a Liberal voice for our communities, our city and our country. As well as being that voice in parliament, I would make strong representations to the council on behalf of residents, hold regular surgeries in the constituency, and be accessible through a range of means, including social media and email.

STRAIGHT TALKING, HARD WORKING,

FIGHTING FOR BRISTOL SOUTH

To ensure we all have access to the health and social care we need, including at South Bristol Community Hospital.

SUPPORTING OUR YOUNG PEOPLE

With improved access to better paid jobs through skills training and apprenticeships.

TACKLING THE CLIMATE EMERGENCY

Labour’s Green Industrial Revolution will meet carbon reduction targets by 2030 and boost the economy.

DECENT HOMES FOR ALL

Supporting plans to deliver hundreds of new affordable homes every year in Bristol.

REGULAR ENTITLEMENT EVENTS

Ensuring pensioners, families and disabled people get the financial support they need.

Karin Smyth Labour candidate for Bristol South

Vote Labour Thursday, 12th December

Got a story for South Bristol Voice? Call Becky on 07912 484405 or email news@southbristolvoice.co.uk

Promoted by Jon Wellington on behalf of Karin Smyth both at 74 Chessel Street, BS3 3DN

A WORLD CLASS NHS

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

December 2019

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15

n ELECTION SPECIAL MEET THE CANDIDATES Tony DYER Green Party Occupation: Freelance Business Consultant

Robert DE VITO BOUTIN Brexit Party Occupation: I'm currently fully occupied in caring about, helping and serving the people of Bristol South.

For ten years Robert de Vito Boutin worked out of an office in Bristol as an awardwinning freelance writer.

He wrote copy for sectors as diverse as engineering and food, finance and entertainment. A lifelong Europhile, Robert has lived, travelled and/or worked in France, Germany, Greece and Italy. More recently he and his wife have been involved (unpaid) in counselling people from all walks of life, helping charitable organisations in transition and supporting church leaders. Their focus has been on the poor and the disadvantaged.

Robert’s father served in the Royal Navy as a WW2 Fleet Air Arm pilot, after which he dedicated the rest of his life to education.

Following in his footsteps, Robert worked in schools as a Head Teacher, Finance Director and

Chair of Governors.

Robert is married and has a son.

He has a keen interest in Creative Arts, has written and directed a number of plays and a musical, paints occasionally, likes walking, loves film and enjoys everything to do with the sea.

Robert is very excited to be invited to stand in Bristol South, a community of wonderful people who appear to have been poorly served for many years.

There is a great deal of rebuilding to do and the work has begun.

Richard MORGAN Conservative Party Occupation: Runs own business Bristol South is a fantastic place to live, with the advantage of being close to central Bristol surrounded by fabulous countryside. The area has great communities and a wonderful spirit, but I do feel the area needs a strong voice as the current mayor seems to prioritise other parts of the city. Bristol South is being left behind in terms of regeneration projects and opportunities for younger residents and I am determined to fight for a better deal for south Bristol’s residents.

Furthermore, I believe the Mayor’s proposed “Local Plan” is a bad deal for South Bristol residents and we should be regenerating brown field sites before we down-grade and re-designate key parts of our valuable Green Belt. I am also concerned the proposed clean air zone is too draconian and could cause real harm to South Bristol’s residents.

I have previously run my own

Since the Brexit referendum, the Conservatives have changed their mind about their party leader twice and have called General Elections twice. What they consistently refuse to allow is the opportunity to see if the country has changed its mind about leaving the EU. I will therefore continue to campaign for a People's Vote and I to Remain in the EU. But this General Election cannot just be about Brexit. We are facing a climate emergency, and failing to act to combat the effects of climate change is no longer an option and even the other parties are now aware that they need to be at least seen to be taking this issue seriously.

But their proposals are nowhere near what's required. We don't pretend that the levels of investment required aren't high.

But that investment will also

create decent and sustainable jobs, energy efficient and truly affordable housing, cleaner air and much improved public transport, and generate greater levels of social inclusion and equality.

Instead of investing in our future, successive governments have inflicted years of austerity, causing great suffering, especially to the most vulnerable in our communities, for very little gain only a tiny few have benefited.

Now is the time to say NO to Brexit, to say NO to climate chaos, to say to NO to austerity.

Now is the time to say YES to voting Green.

Karin SMYTH Labour Party Occupation: NHS manager; MP for Bristol South 2015-2019

small business, so I understand the challenges facing local entrepreneurs. If elected on 12 December, I would do everything possible to support small businesses in our area, and in particular support our local high streets. I voted to leave the European Union in 2016, and I believe the uncertainty around BREXIT needs to end as quickly as possible so I would support the Prime Minister in getting BREXIT done and giving certainty and clarity to Bristol’s business community. I also care passionately about the NHS and absolutely support the principal that the NHS should always be free at the point of need and I support the extra £34 billion we are spending on the NHS.

It is a privilege for me to represent Bristol South in Parliament since 2015.

With a son at university, two other teenage boys at home in Bristol and an older parent who needs my support, I know what it’s like to balance responsibilities. I’ve seen the impact of nearly a decade of Tory austerity on public services so I’ve done whatever I can to help solve people’s problems and make their lives a little easier.

As your MP, I’ve run regular money entitlement events to help residents get the support they are entitled to. It’s only fair that if you work hard and contribute, the system is there for you when you need it. No one should miss out on the help they deserve.

My twenty years working in the NHS have shown me just how precious it is. Tory cuts have put it at risk and undermined the work

of brilliant NHS staff. A Labour Government will invest to ensure our NHS provide world-class health and social care.

To settle the issue of Brexit we must ask the public to vote again, with the straightforward choice of Remaining in the EU or Leaving the EU on the terms of the negotiated withdrawal deal. The British people can then make a genuinely informed choice. In my view no withdrawal deal will ever match the benefits of staying in the European Union, so I will campaign and vote to remain in the EU. I hope I can count on your support again.

Hustings events: Youth Hustings, Wednesday November 28, 6-8pm at The Station, Silver Street. Organised by Creative Youth Network • Bristol Education Hustings, Wednesday December 4, 5-7pm at Wills Memorial Building (G25).

Organised by the Bristol SEND Alliance with support from the National Education Union (NEU).

To keep up to date with other local hustings events, follow 'South Bristol Voice' on Facebook and Twitter.

Got a story for South Bristol Voice? Call Becky on 07912 484405 or email news@southbristolvoice.co.uk

Th e

l

t...

Kid Ca rp et +

N

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a m i n

se n e r sp

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4th D

FANCY DRESS WE LCOME! Shepherds, Angels, Sheep...

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4

Products featured by the makers at the forthcoming Made in Bristol Gift Fair Weekenders at Colston Hall on: Nov 23 (10am-5pm) & 24 (10am-4pm); Nov 30 (10am5pm) & Dec 1 (10am-4pm); Dec 7 (10am-5pm) & 8 (10am4pm)

3

2

6

5

7 1. Handmade organic baby clothes and rattle by Ilo. Prices: Banana ‘Grow with me’ Organic Trousers from £20.00 2. Wooden teardrop display board by Brüün Design. Price: £30.00 3. Rings with gemstones made with sterling eco silver bands from Forest & Fawn’s Stones Collection. Prices from £70.00 each 4. Plant print by illustrator Hannah Broadway. Prices from £15.00 unframed 5. Hanne Rysgaard’s signature cast ceramic milk jugs. Prices from £36.00 (small) and £45.00 (large) 6. Colourful large keyrings made from reclaimed leather by Kay Morgan jewellery. Price: £16.00 each 7. Made in Bristol loves smelling of nature. Natural soaps and shampoo bars handmade in Bristol by Wild Grove. Prices: Shampoo bars £6.00; Liquid soaps in refillable glass bottles £8.00.

All items are available from the three Made in Bristol Gift Fair Weekenders in November & December.

Photos by Jo Hounsome Photography

With so many artisan producers in and around the city, we have a wealth of locally sourced products to give your Christmas a unique Bristol feel.

Colourful stocking fillers from Ooh! Chocolata; A large range of locally brewed beers, and fabulous small-batch gins; Somerset cider brandies; Cheeses from the local area; Coffee from Wogan Coffee; Packaging-free choices, and more!

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

December 2019

southbristolvoice

n GET READY FOR CHRISTMAS

Festival in famous church will be 'treely' spectacular A festival of Christmas trees will be a spectacular beginning to the advent season in the Gothic splendour of St Mary Redcliffe Church.

The display of up to 100 Christmas trees, from December 3-7 and open daily 10am-5pm, will help raise money for local charities.

Organisers have invited local people, charities, schools, businesses and other organisations to take part by making and/or decorating a Christmas tree. The trees range in size from 1ft to 6ft. In the past the festival has had trees made out of canoes, fabric, wood, wire, ladders, tools, textiles, recycled materials and pompoms.

The trees help raise awareness of the causes, activities and services offered by the makers, as well as helping to raise money for Preludes, a musical education

19 CAN

WE R DELIVER

YOU E TRE

charity run by Bristol Ensemble as part of their Education and Outreach programme and St Mary Redcliffe’s community development work.

There will be a full music programme throughout the festival, including performances by local choirs and musicians.

On Thursday, December 5 there is a late night opening until 8pm. Preludes will be hosting a “come and try a musical instrument” session, followed by “come and sing” Christmas carols with their in-house band.

The event is free entry but donations are requested to support Preludes and St Mary Redcliffe’s community work.

Treefest is kindly sponsored

by Hollis Morgan, b2 Architects, Queen Square Chambers and Out of Hand. For further information: www.treefest.org.uk or email: treefest18@gmail.com

Refutrees

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Got a story for South Bristol Voice? Call Becky on 07912 484405 or email news@southbristolvoice.co.uk

Christmas y r r e M Foxon & Foxon would like to wish all customers a merry Christmas

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Wishing all our clients a very happy • Rewiring • Minor Christmas.

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would like to wish all families a merry Christmas www.brislingtonvillage preschool.co.uk 07780330203

Sher’s Sandwich Stop would like to wish all customers a merry Christmas www.sandwichandcoffee.co.uk 0117 904 9733

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December 2019

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21

n GET READY FOR CHRISTMAS

ADVERTISING FEATURE

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Raleigh Road, BS3 1TF W: tobaccofactorytheatres.com T: 0117 902 0344 Bristol’s much-loved maker of nonsense music and rock ‘n’ roll, Kid Carpet, gives the traditional Christmas story a radical remix with big beat songs, wonky carols, live special effects, puppetry and animation.

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Got a story for South Bristol Voice? Call Becky on 07912 484405 or email news@southbristolvoice.co.uk

December 2019

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22

n GET READY FOR CHRISTMAS

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with a huge outdoor ice rink giving skaters loads of space to learn to skate or show off their skills.

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December 2019

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23

n HISTORY Avon Gorge PART 3

Fatal consequences

In our final part tracing the history of the Avon Gorge, Paul Breeden tells of the tragic flight by an RAF pilot which probably marked the end of such daredevil stunts for good.

T

he final RAF flight up the Avon Gorge that we know of ended tragically – and probably put all pilots off attempting a repetition.

At 10.30am on Sunday, February 3, 1957, Flying Officer John Crossley took off from Filton in a De Havilland F.9 Vampire, a single-engined fighter that had been only the second jet to enter RAF service in 1946.

Eleven years later, the type was becoming obsolete, but it was

BOING, BOING

still used for training, and could reach almost 550mph.

Around 20 minutes later Crossley reached the Avon Gorge.

He flew under the Suspension Bridge, heading towards Avonmouth. Once under the bridge, he climbed steeply and entered clouds. He was then seen to roll slowly out of the cloud, descending then turning to the left side of the gorge, when he suddenly seemed to lose height more rapidly.

THE FIRST bungee jump was made from Clifton Suspension Bridge in 1979. Four members of the self-styled Dangerous Sports Club, David Kirk, Alan Weston, Simon Keeling and Tim Hunt, younger brother of racing driver James Hunt, leaped off the bridge on April 1. Police had been tipped off, and were watching the bridge, but the four moved quickly. They tied two-inch thick elasticated ropes to the bridge supports, and leapt. The elastics were intended to catch planes landing on aircraft carriers, and they had been assured the lines would take their weight – though the only practice had been jumping off a tree in a friend’s garden. The modern ‘sport’ of bungee jumping began that day – though it’s strictly forbidden on the Suspension Bridge.

Onlookers on the bridge could not see, but heard clearly an explosion as the plane, almost certainly travelling at more than 200mph, struck the left side of the gorge. Crossley was killed instantly. His plane was not fitted with an ejector seat, and he probably wouldn’t have had time to use it anyway. The impact caused a landslide, blocking the railway line to Pill, which ran along the bottom of the Gorge.

The following day’s Western

PHOTO: Matt Prosser, Creative Commons

Daily Press included shocking eyewitness testimony. “I heard the Vampire flying over the river but did not at first see it because it was in low cloud,” said Douglas Bendle, himself a former Spitfire pilot. “Then there was silence and the aircraft came down out of the cloud upside down. It looked to me as if he had done a victory roll after flying under the bridge and had his engine pack up when he was upside down in cloud.

“He managed to get the aircraft upright again, but it was very low. I did not see the crash, as the aircraft disappeared behind trees.”

In the Daily Mirror there was worse. Alfred Fenn, who ran a kiosk on the Suspension Bridge, told the paper that “two men and a girl” appeared soon after the crash, having apparently witnessed it. “The girl was in tears. They told me that they had been at a party with the pilot the previous night.” There was a strong crosswind from the gorge, Mr Fenn said.

Even this wasn’t the whole story.

Flying Officer Crossley had a day job with the Bristol Aero Engines in Filton, but he was also a weekend pilot in 501 Continued overleaf

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December 2019

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24

n HISTORY Avon Gorge PART 3 Continued from previous page Squadron, RAF Volunteer Reserve. The RAFVR had been founded to increase the supply of pilots for World War II. In 1957 it was surplus to requirements – and on February 3, it was to be disbanded, with a commemorative flypast for the Duke of Gloucester at Filton.

Squadron Leader MC Collings, commander of 501 Squadron, explained to the Mirror that Crossley had been on an authorised flight to test the plane – but he wasn’t supposed to fly under the bridge. Similarly, the Western Daily Press reported that Crossley was supposed to be a reserve pilot for the flypast.

But even this wasn’t the truth – and it was no surprise that the RAF didn’t want to reveal it.

Crossley hadn’t been meant to fly at all. For one thing, he had been partying all night – because the RAF had allowed the squadron’s farewell party to take place the night before the disbandment.

What really happened emerged at the inquest, and was disclosed later by people who knew John Crossley. The flight was not authorised, Flight Lieut David Chalkin told the Flax Bourton coroner four days later.

So what happened?

Corporal Robert Troll told the coroner that at 10.30am, he saw Crossley sitting in a Vampire, having started the engine.

“He then climbed out, dashed round the starboard side, disconnecting the starting appliance, and then climbed back into he cockpit as if he was in a hurry.

“I made signs to prevent him from taking off because the nose wheel chock was behind the wheel and danger might ensue.

He ignored me completely.”

Flight Lieut Chalkin heard the takeoff and rushed out, but could do nothing. “It was not possible to contact the aircraft by radio,” he said.

At a later hearing, on February 26, Chalkin said Crossley was an experienced pilot, but had been reprimanded three times “for faults arising from over-confidence.”

But there were still some facts missing from the airmen’s testimony.

The inquest wasn’t told that the squadron’s farewell party went on all night, and that Crossley arrived straight from the celebration, in his dinner jacket. How drunk was he? We’ll never know, and there wasn’t a

of Crossley who were trying to protect his reputation. Corporal Troll’s testimony to the inquest makes it clear that he did all he could to prevent the takeoff. A later account had Troll throwing a chock in front of the Vampire’s wheel, but to no avail.

Crucially, Crossley did not take the cover off the plane’s pitot tube. With the tube blocked, the plane’s airspeed meter would not work – depriving the pilot of vital information.

In his haste, he did not even fasten his safety harness. Yet the eyewitnesses saw him roll the plane upside down after shooting under the bridge. Without a harness, he may easily have lost contact with his controls – enough in itself to explain a split-second error that sent the jet hurtling into the cliff.

Did he mean to kill himself?

Some pilots thought his actions so reckless that suicide was a possibility. But the jury did not think so, returning a verdict of Fast jet: A De Havilland accidental death.

Vampire of the type which They heard evidence from John Crossley flew under Crossley’s friend, Geoffrey Clifton Suspension Bridge Higginbottom, who said he was in 1957 before crashing “high spirited and fearless”. into the Gorge He claimed Crossley had once PHOTO: Michael Seeley, climbed from the rails of the Creative Commons Suspension Bridge up to the top of the tower – an incredible feat if true.

Raymond Thomas’s Brisray website carries more testimony drink-drive limit at the time, but from a friend of Crossley, Tom pilots today are expected not to Routledge, who worked with drink at all on the night before him at BAE. “John was a fine a flight. young man – a bit taken with The Daily Mirror, whose the silk scarf romanticism of the first report was still making out RAF,” Tom wrote. To the notion that the flight was authorised, that the crash might have been claimed that “when Crossley was suicide, he said: “It certainly was told to take up the plane he gave NOT. He was just trying to fulfil the thumbs up to his comrades” a young man’s dream, and he and said: “A pilot’s farewell to his knew that his chance would be horse”, as if taking a final ride on PROPERTY MAINTENANCE gone shortly. his steed.

“A tragic endPAINTING to a young INTERIOR & EXTERIOR This seems to be a complete man’s life … largely because fabrication by the RAF orFENCING the • PATIOS • LANDSCAPING of youthful stupidity. At the paper – or perhaps by colleagues some of his weekend-pilot LOG STOREStime • GUTTERING • FASCIAS

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n HISTORY Avon Gorge PART 3 friends used to raise a drink to ‘good old John, who died as he would have liked’ … and I thought then, as I do now, bullshit – it was a terrible waste.”

A terrible waste indeed.

And apparently witnessed by Crossley’s fiancé, who had been told by him to to be at the bridge that morning to see something spectacular. The Daily Mirror account says two men were with her, but others say the woman was with her mother.

There are no records of any unauthorised flights under the Suspension Bridge since John Crossley’s tragic journey. Police helicopters have flown under the bridge in 1997 and 2017 while conducting searches of the Gorge.

An attempt was made at ballooning under the bridge by pilot Clive Bailey of Bailey Balloons for the 2007 Balloon Fiesta, with an actor dressed as Brunel on top of the balloon. But December, 2019

the winds were not kind and, though special permission had been given by the Civil Aviation Authority, the city council and the trustees of the bridge, Mr Bailey had to change course to avoid drifting into the cliffs, and passed over the bridge.

Sources Professional Pilots Rumour Network (Prune), pprune.org/ military-aviation/96306-lowflying-under-bridges-updated. html History The Clifton Suspension Bridge, cliftonbridge.org.uk The Avon Gorge, Bristol’s Great Glacier? bbc.co.uk/bristol/ content/nature/02.shtml The Flyer They Could Not Stop Daily Mirror, February 27, 1957 brisray.com/bristol/gorge2 The Clifton Bridge, Key Publishing Aviation Forums, forum.keypublishing.com thosemagnificentmen.co.uk/ machines/boxkite02.html

E: richard@filtonvoice.co.uk

n ADVERTISING FEATURE

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THE AVON GORGE isn’t just a place of danger, of course – it’s also a natural wonder and a Site of Special Scientific Interest with unique plants and wildlife. Two trees, the Bristol whitebeam and the Wilmott’s whitebeam, grow nowhere else. Very rare plants include the Bristol onion and Bristol rock cress. Wildlife includes peregrine falcons – the world’s fastest bird, which can dive at 180mph.

Not wanted: Brunel wanted to put an Egyptian Sphinx on top of each tower of the Suspension Bridge, but dropped the idea as too expensive PHOTO: Iyad Al Ghafari, Pixabay

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26

n THE CITY PAGE

December 2019

southbristolvoice

BRISTOL CITY ROUND-UP

Let's not have to endure twilight world of playoffs MARTIN POWELL says City's chances of automatic promotion will hinge on getting results against their fellow top-of-the-table rivals, starting with West Brom

T

hings are so tight at the top of the Championship table that Bristol City’s up-coming game at West Bromwich Albion on November 27 already looks like it will be a season-defining fixture.

With no runaway leader so far and just a handful of points separating the top teams, it is performances against others in the top six that will make a real difference.

City have established themselves amongst the pack fighting it out at the top of the table but it is the teams that edge victories over their rivals that will be sitting in the top two at the end of the season, rather than entering the scary, twilight world of the play-offs.

I still have bad dreams every week of Dean Windass swinging his tattooed leg and thumping in the only goal of the game to send Hull City into the top flight and me on to a miserable coach ride home from Wembley. That was

the last time City reached the play off final – and to be honest nobody wants to go through that again!

Which is why two of the games in October were disappointing.

Firstly, a Friday night fixture away to Barnsley was an opportunity to go into second place and put pressure on those also in the top zone. Barnsley were rock bottom but after doing the hard work and being two goals in front with 15 minutes to go two goals were conceded, including one in the 94th minute and the chance was passed up.

A few weeks later a Sunday fixture at home to Wigan presented a similar opportunity after other clubs had stuttered the day before. Another 2-2 draw was the result, this time with Pedro Pereira rescuing it for City at the last minute.

If the season continues in similar vein there will be more opportunities to clinch a top two place and City must capitalise

Pedro Pereira celebrates after scoring his equaliser against Wigan on them. Thankfully there are signs that the injury crisis may be easing with Tomas Kalas and Adam Nagy both returning to first team action and Korey Smith making a cameo appearance in a duffel coat watching the Cardiff City game in a hint that he might soon return to action.

Automatic promotion to the Premier League by finishing in the top two is not an impossible dream with the current squad if they can develop a bit more selfbelief and mental toughness. I’m not sure I can develop the mental toughness for the play-off route, so I’m hoping they get it together!

When you look at the teams in that top group: West Brom, Leeds, Nottingham Forest, Swansea and Fulham, all have Premier League histories with

just Bristol City and Preston yet to reach that goal. Wouldn’t it be great if those were the two sides enjoying automatic promotion?

Martin’s shorts Cardiff manager Neil Warnock is one of the great characters of the game and his comments are always good value. In a recent interview he was asked about his relationship with Bristol City fans and told the Welsh media: “When I pass away, I don’t want clapping or a minute’s silence, I want a minute’s booing at Bristol City.”

I think we should arrange that, but let’s hope it’s not too soon as he is a chap we love to hate!

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n PLANNING APPLICATIONS Knowle ward: Awaiting decision 43 Somerset Road, BS4 2HT Proposed single storey rear extension with raised decking.

9 Imperial Walk, BS14 9AD Divide existing dwelling into two self contained flats. (Self build) Granted subject to condition(s)

The Park, Daventry Road, BS4 1DQ Hybrid application for development of the site comprising, with phased development: Erection of buildings for mixed community use, extension to retained sports hall, and associated works and infrastructure; Erection of new secondary school and associated works and infrastructure including MUGA.

Windmill Hill ward: Awaiting decision

63 Harrowdene Road, BS4 2JJ Proposed conversion of shop on the ground floor into a flat and the existing flat on the first floor to remain.

22 Malago Drive, BS3 5DR Loft conversion with front and rear flat roof dormers.

Knowle ward: Decision 48 Springleaze, BS4 2TT Replace existing porch with larger porch. Granted subject to condition(s)

Flat above 26 Bedminster Road, BS3 5PD Erection of flat roof rear extension (dormer) to flat.

Flat above 24 Bedminster Road, BS3 5PD Erection of flat roof rear extension (dormer) to flat.

35 Fitzgerald Road, BS3 5DG Single storey wrap-around extension with pitched roof. Side extension to have parapet wall on boundary. Remaining side and rear boundary to have new fence measuring 2m in height from pavement level.

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72 Bedminster Road, BS3 5NP Two storey side and single storey front and rear extension with part two storey rear element and rear dormer extension.

204 Marksbury Road, BS3 5LF 2 x 1 bed self built flats.

30 Richmond Street, BS3 4TQ Conversion of 5 bedroom house to one bedroom flat and two bedroom maisonette.

Windmill Hill ward: Decision 4 Green Street, BS3 4UA New rear single storey and first floor extensions. Granted subject to condition(s) 22 Haverstock Road, BS4 2BZ Retention of large HMO to provide 7 bedrooms, including double storey side extension. Refused • The status of these applications may have changed since we went to press. Check for updates at planningonline.bristol.gov.uk

Library funds available Bristol City Council is offering community groups up to £3,000 to develop innovative ideas for their local libraries.

The Library Innovation Fund will see just over £100,000 split between the city’s 27 libraries.

Projects could range from buying furniture or equipment to funding activities such as creative writing workshops. It could also be used as match funding for a larger project.

A thousand pounds from the fund will be allocated to each library's Friends group, with a further £3,000 available for each library, with bids accepted from community groups, local businesses and individuals.

The deadline to submit a draft application for funding is December 13, and the final deadline is January 13 2020. For more information, visit: www. bristol.gov.uk/libraries-archives/ apply-for-funding-for-ideas-foryour-library

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Got a story for South Bristol Voice? Call Becky on 07912 484405 or email news@southbristolvoice.co.uk

n WHAT’S ON Christmas events

Saturday November 30 n Bedminster Methodist Church Christmas Fair, 11am-2pm. Various stalls, tombola, refreshments, Father Christmas - all in aid of Help Bristol’s Homeless and Church Funds. n St Paul’s Church Christmas Bazaar, Southville at 12pm. Come and enjoy stalls, bouncy castle, refreshments and a visit from Father Christmas. n St Michael and All Angels Church Christmas Market, 10.30am-2.30pm, Vivian Street, Windmill Hill. Come along and pick up hand crafted items for Christmas. Everyone is warmly invited. If you are an artist or crafter and would like to sell your work at this event contact smaaanews@gmail.com n Help Bristol’s Homeless Fayre, 1.30-5pm at Long Ashton Community Centre. Lots of festive stalls, a raffle and plenty of mulled wine & mince pies.

Sunday December 1 n Arnos Vale Cemetery Christmas Market, 10am-

December 2019

southbristolvoice

28

GOT A LISTING YOU WANT INCLUDED? Email sales@southbristolvoice.co.uk

4pm, Bath Road. Free entry all day! Showcasing a host of local craft and produce suppliers from our region. n ‘Forever Flying’ remembrance event, 4-6pm in Leigh Court, Pill Road, Abbots Leigh. The service, hosted by Great Western Air Ambulance is free of charge and will give guests the chance to share their memories and celebrate loved ones. Tickets must be reserved in advance by contacting lamorna. hooker@gwaac.com or call 0303 4444 999 December 1, 2, 8 & 9 n Wild wreath making workshops at Redcatch Community Garden. Sunday workshops, 6-8pm. Monday workshops, 7-9pm. Cost: £25 per person including mulled cider and festive treats, and

CHRISTMAS FAYRE

Saturday November 30, 10am-2pm at Knowle Methodist Church, Wells Road.

Christmas fayre and Christmas Round the World themed children’s activities.

CHRISTMAS BAZAAR

Saturday December 7, 11am-3pm at St Martin’s Church, Wells Road, Knowle, BS4 2NG Grand prize draw, gifts, needlework, Christmas pickles, toys, books, plants and much more. Refreshments, hot food and homemade cakes. all materials. Bring your own secateurs if you have some and wear warm comfortable clothing.

Pre-booking required via bit.ly/ wild-wreath-workshop Sunday December 1, 8, 15 & 22 n Tobacco Factory Christmas Markets, 10am2.30pm. Discover a selection of the best local food, makers, producers, craft around, plus Christmas trees with Ali & Joe’s Christmas Trees, live music, street food and the usual lovely atmosphere.

Thursday December 5 n Christmas Street Photography, 5.30-7.30pm, meet at Upfest, North Street.

Take a stroll through Bedminster with local photography legend

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HAPPY THANKSGIVING 28th November Children’s activities 6pm Thanksgiving dinner 7pm RSVP Jason: 07795 560990

Colin Moody. Bring your camera or camera-phone and get a festive fun look at the place while improving your street photography style. Open to everyone. Cost, £5 with all proceeds going to Help Bristol’s Homeless. Email bedminster@ weareplaster.com to book your space!

Thursday December 5, 12 & 19 n North Street Nights, 5-9pm. As Christmas creeps closer, some of your favourite North Street businesses are opening their doors late to help you find that perfect last minute gift. Look out for the snowflake in the window to see which shops are involved and come on down for a nice evening on

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Tuesday 5.30pm & 7.30pm Virginia Salvation Army, Every Tuesday with Every Tuesday with Virginia Wicklea Academy, Wick Road. 11.30am, 9:30am, Virginia Dean5.30pm Lane 9:30am, 11.30am, 5.30pm & 7.30pm & 7.30pm 5.30pm Call& Virginia Wednesday 5.30pm & 7.30pm 7.30pm

9:30am,Tuesday 11.30am, Every with Bedminster Every Tuesday with NEW VENUE: North Art Gallery (byRoad. the Salvation Army, St Christopher’s Church, Hampstead 5.30pm &St7.30pm Salvation Army, Dean Lane 07938 567886 Dean Lane Spotted Cow pub) Virginia Thursday 5.30pm & 7.30pm Virginia Salvation Army, Bedminster Call Virginia Bedminster

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

December 2019

southbristolvoice

n WHAT’S ON North Street on Thursdays this December.

Saturday December 7 n BS3 Community Christmas Market, 11am-5pm at the Southville Centre, Beauley Road, Southville. Join us for the perfect opportunity to meet local artists and makers and to

THE RISING SUN December live listings

Windmill Hill, BS3 4LU 6th: Ruzz Guitar & Henry Slim bringing their blend of Blues to The Rising Sun, 9pm 13th: Bandaoke (karaoke with a live band), 8.30pm 20th: Trip For Biscuits - leave your troubles outside and join us for some 1920s, toe tapping, tassel shaking covers, 9pm 21st: YMF Pre-Christmas Party playing classic funk soul old school hip hop 90s dance and other types of sexy music REGULAR EVENTS Every Wednesday: Open mic night, 8.30-11pm

29

GOT A LISTING YOU WANT INCLUDED? Email sales@southbristolvoice.co.uk

purchase unique Christmas gifts for friends and family.

December 7 & 21 n Christmas Silent Disco, 8pm at Tobacco Factory. Nothing spreads Christmas cheer like a silent disco under the lights!

Come down to the Tobacco Factory garden for two amazing nights of Christmas dancing.

With three music channels to choose from, there’s sure to be something for everyone! FREE to attend!

Sunday December 8 n Carols with Churches Together, 4pm at Redcatch Community Garden followed by Holy Communion at the Church of Nazarene.

Monday December 9 n West Street Christmas Carols, 6-7pm at Mezzaluna Italian Restaurant. The West St neighbourhood group’s annual carols with the Bedminster Citadel Salvation Army Band.

Enjoy mulled wine and mince pies kindly provided by Mezzaluna and Tesco.

Wednesday December 11 n Bedminster Community

Choir festive concert, 6.45pm at acta Centre, Gladstone Street, BS3. Raffle prizes and Christmas craft stall. Bar open from 6pm.

Tickets £3 on the door. n Circle of Hope wreath making with Floriography 7-9pm at Redcliffe Nursery and Children’s Centre, Ship Lane. £20 per ticket. £5 for cheese platter and glass of wine. Tickets available at bit.ly/357iLYp. Saturday December 21 n Christmas stories and crafts, 2.30pm at Marksbury Road Library. Drop in for free.

Most suitable for ages 3-8.

Children must be supervised by NIA DANCE FITNESS A fun, energising mix of dance, martial arts and yoga, with relaxation to end. Simple steps to follow, all set to brilliant tunes.

Everyone welcome, beginners too. Tuesdays, 7.45-8.45pm, Southbank Club, Dean Lane (term time). £7 drop-in/book on MoveGB. T: 07434 964490.

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an adult.

Monday December 23 n Christmas stories and crafts, 2.30pm at Bedminster Library. Drop in for free. Most suitable for ages 3-8. Children must be supervised by an adult.

Regular events n Filwood Chase History Society held in our Heritage Centre (free entry). View scale models of local buildings and look at our extensive collection of maps, etc. Browse among, pottery/books/photographs/ coins/fossils, then, look up stored local information, on computers.

The Park Community Centre, Daventry Road. Tuesdays and Wednesdays, 1-5pm. For more information, call Ivor Grimsted on 07856769285 or just turn up, and ask questions! n Little Music Makers musical storytelling adventures, featuring live music and hands on activities each week. Perfect for your 18 month - 4-year-old.

(Siblings under 1 can come for free!). Thursday mornings through to Christmas (closed 31/10/19). Sessions start at 9.45am or 10.50am in St Christopher’s Church Hall, Hampstead Road, BS4 3HN Get in touch to book or find out more: littlemusicmakers.org. n Zumba classes at United Reform Church, Brislington, BS4 3LG, Monday, 10am - Zumba Gold (suitable for 50+ and Zumba beginners) £5. Monday and Thursday, 6.45pm - Zumba Fitness (Everybody welcome) £6 For more details contact Kate: zumbawithkate.bristol@gmail. com; 07988787710. n Gentle exercise sessions Seated and standing exercises, fun and friendly classes to improve strength and balance with expert instructor Michelle Kusnierek, Wednesdays 2-3pm at Knowle Methodist church hall BS4 2EP. Cost £4, with time for tea and a chat afterwards.

Sponsored by Bristol Ageing Better Community Kick Start Fund. Email timetomove5@ gmail.com or call 07981 756965o.

Got an event to share?

Email Ruth at sales@ southbristolvoice.co.uk or call 07590 527 664

Got a story for South Bristol Voice? Call Becky on 07912 484405 or email news@southbristolvoice.co.uk

FESTIVE WASTE COLLECTIONS Over the festive period your waste collection dates will change slightly to allow for bank holidays. Check what dates we will be coming to you on the calendar below. Thank you and happy holidays!

Why not cut out and keep this advert as a reminder

Your usual collection day Revised collection day

Wed 25 Dec Thur 26 Dec

Sat 28 Dec

Fri 27 Dec Mon 30 Dec Tue 31 Dec

Mon 30 Dec

Never miss a collection – download your 2020 collection calendar from: www.bristolwastecompany.co.uk/festive If you would like a printed copy, please call 0117 922 2100.

Tue 31 Dec Thur 2 Jan

Wed 1 Jan Thur 2 Jan

Fri 3 Jan Sat 4 Jan

Fri 3 Jan Mon 6 Jan

Mon 6 Jan Tue 7 Jan

Tue 7 Jan Wed 8 Jan Thur 9 Jan Fri 10 Jan

Fri 27 Dec

Download your 2020 calendar

Wed 8 Jan Thur 9 Jan

Christmas tree collection You can take trees to your nearest Household Waste & Recycling Centre.

We will also be collecting real trees from 7 January 2020. Put your tree out on your collection day with the tree symbol.

Don’t forget our garden and bulky waste services pause over the Christmas period.

Fri 10 Jan Sat 11 Jan

Normal collections from Mon 13 Jan

For more details and to discover top tips and festive life hacks visit: www.bristolwastecompany.co.uk/festive

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

December 2019

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31

n NEWS

Sophie is climbing Kili to raise funds for children in poverty A local woman is preparing to trek to new heights to raise money for a charity which empowers and supports children living in poverty.

Sophie Patten (pictured below and right), of Arnos Vale, will be climbing Mount Kilimanjaro at the end of February and has already smashed her target of £2,000.

The 25-year-old is raising money for Compassion, which works with churches in developing countries to support

local children, and the funds will go towards building houses for families in Rwanda.

Sophie has been sponsoring a young Tanzanian girl through the charity for the last two and half years.

Compassion got in touch with Sophie to ask if she would be interested in embarking on the trek to raise money for the charity and she leapt at the chance.

The civil service worker will be joined by dozens of others raising money for the organisation, as she takes on the Rongai route – a quieter course with a more gradual slope.

It will be a five-day ascent up the 5,895m mountain, which will include climatising to the altitude, and then a one-day descent, which Sophie anticipates will involve 10 hours of walking.

Sophie said: “I’ve been doing a lot of fitness stuff to prepare myself … I’ve been hiking and I

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run quite a bit.

“There’s 35 of us going – it’s going to be really exciting meeting new people. I’d say I’m most nervous about altitude sickness.

“We’ve been having regular Skype calls with the team leader and he seems really experienced.”

Sophie hopes that once she has completed the mammoth challenge, which will take six days in total, she will be able to meet the child she sponsors, seven-year-old Melisa who lives with her grandmother in Tanzania.

They have been writing letters to each other every other month since Sophie started sponsoring the schoolgirl.

The letters are dictated by Melisa and written by the young girl’s grandmother and include drawings from Melisa at the bottom. These letters are then translated by the charity and then passed onto Sophie.

Sophie said: “Melisa tells me what she’s been doing with friends, what she enjoys at school. It’s been amazing to see how her drawings have changed over time as well. In her last letter, she told me she wanted to become a nurse.”

The sponsorship helps to pay for Melisa’s education, medical care and development.

To raise money for climbing Mount Kili, Sophie has been organising pub quizzes, including one at The Shakespeare in Totterdown, which raised £300 towards her target and saw local

Sophie Patten flying the Tanzanian flag

Sophie running in this year’s Bristol Half Marathon to raise money for her climb businesses donating vouchers for the raffle.

She also completed the Bristol half marathon in September, and has organised smaller events, such as an afternoon tea, among friends.

Sophie’s trip is completely self-funded, and all the money she has raised will go directly to Compassion.

To donate to Sophie’s challenge, or sponsor a child, visit her fundraising page: challenges.compassionuk. org/profile/3714/sophiepatten

0117 952 0698

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Got a story for South Bristol Voice? Call Becky on 07912 484405 or email news@southbristolvoice.co.uk

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32

December 2019

n NEWS

More lending, less wasting - it makes all the difference

Step ladders, jump leads, a dehumidifier and a kayak paddle … these are just some of the items that south Bristol folk have been able to borrow, thanks to a Facebook lending page set up by a local mum.

Katherine Morgan was on maternity leave when she came up with idea for the ‘BS3 Lending Library’.

The environment agency worker wanted to create a group which encouraged people to be “less wasteful and more neighbourly”.

She also wanted it to be a space where people could offer help to others.

For example, one lady needed some ivy cutting back – group members were quick to respond to her calls and within moments, she had found a keen neighbour – with a hedge trimmer – to help out.

“It’s like fastest finger first – people really want to help,” says Katherine.

The group has been met with a “great response” since launching in May and has attracted over 670 members. BS4 residents are also welcomed to join.

Katherine says that it is a group built on trust and so far, everyone has had a positive

experience.

“One of my favourite posts was a parent looking for waterproofs for her daughter who was doing Duke of Edinburgh. Straight away, she got all the kit needed and saved loads of money,” Katherine said.

Katherine went on maternity leave in January and was soon racking her brain about what to do in the spare moments when her newborn was sleeping.

“I needed to do something – I wanted to make a difference. I thought, how can I do my little bit and save things from landfill? I came up with idea for the group and told my husband, and he said, ‘why don’t you set it up then?’

“If ever I can do one thing to make a difference, it would to prevent us being a wasteful society.”

Through the page, Katherine also organised a clear-out weekend in September which saw dozens of residents listing free items to collect that may have otherwise gone to landfill.

To join the group, visit bit.ly/bs3lending-library.

Mum Katherine, pictured, came up with the idea while on maternity leave

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December 2019

southbristolvoice

n THE WICKED WITCH OF KNOWLE In witch it’s a wrap

‘

Oh My God” was the cry when I picked up a call from Uni Girl.

“It’s my first day on my own and they’ve put me on the tills.

The tills! I’ve not had training on them.” Without pausing for breath she continued, “how am I supposed to know the difference between a bagel and a muffin by the picture?

They look the same. Everything’s abbreviated, there are a million tiny buttons, meal deals that don’t have an option to ‘go large’… ‘Hello Mr Magpie, how’s your wife?’… how do I make it ‘go large’? My jaw aches from smiling and fake laughing at my wrongdoings. I am sick of… ‘hello Mr Magpie, how’s your wife?’... apologising when it’s totally not my fault. I have never been so stressed in all my life.

Where is Mr Magpie’s wife? I need some joy, not sorrow…”

Uni Girl ... wait, she’s finally graduated, I shall now call her the Graduate ... has got herself a job before heading off to teach in China next year. She tried to get into Tesco but kept failing the

online assessment. She had asked for our advice. One of the questions was this: “You are stacking shelves. There are two people nearby who are talking about organising a party, and they are discussing whether to buy some Prosecco.

“Do you; (a) interrupt their conversation and take them to the Prosecco; (b) carry on doing your job, ignoring them; (c) stop what you are doing, making yourself available should they require assistance. “ This is when we all started arguing because I would interrupt these people, drag them to the alcohol aisle, giving my personal recommendations on the best Prosecco ensuring I got an invite to the party. Himself disagreed. His icy blue eyes narrow if anyone dare

THE WICKED WITCH OF KNOWLE

33

interrupt his private conversation.

He stated that they should be ignored and he would carry on working. I then changed my mind.

Maybe I would stop what I was doing and hover, glancing at them, trying to make eye contact whilst jigging about waving, they would have no option but to speak to me, listen to my vast alcohol knowledge and spend lots of money.

The Graduate ended up agreeing with Himself and ticked box B. We waited, on edge, while the computer made its final decision. “Oh no,” sighed the Graduate “you were useless. I’ve failed again. I’m going to hang up and have a cry.”

We will never know the right answer to that unanswerable

Who is the Wicked Witch? She’s the one in the alcohol aisle giving recommendations on the best Prosecco to buy

question as McDonalds came to the rescue with a job offer. The Graduate was sent for health and safety training, given a uniform then thrown to the clowns. “It is a bit cliquey” was the verdict after her first shift learning how to cook hash browns. “The others know each other and are younger than me. On quiet times they stand by the drinks and natter. I stand chatting to the chips and re-stock the already re-stocked chip containers.”

Back to now and the Graduate was still talking at me, fast and frantic. Then slowed, paused and said: “Mum, I’m watching a seagull eating a wrap in the car park. I actually wish I was that seagull right now.” I wrinkled my nose. “At least you don’t wish you were the rat,” I replied. “Rat? Mum? I said wrap. Why would I want to be a seagull that was eating a rat?” And I laughed and laughed and she sighed, took a deep breath before ending the call and heading back to her post, smile fixed on face, ready to tackle the till.

THIS WITCH TWEETS: @witchyofknowle

To find out more, call 01179 717 880 or visit crystalclearbristol.co.uk

Got a story for South Bristol Voice? Call Becky on 07912 484405 or email news@southbristolvoice.co.uk

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34

December 2019

n CREATIVE COLUMN with Emma Garland of Little Red Apple Handcrafted geometric jewellery, colourful cards and more Emma makes and sells her own designs through her business Little Red Apple, which she started in Knowle in 2011.

Her creative journey started by making cards for friends and family and over the years her product range has expanded to include handmade jewellery and coasters, which she sells through several independent retailers in Bristol and also online.

She told us: “I love geometric shapes and clean lines. Anything from a colour combination seen on vintage fabric, to an urban walk admiring the colourful Bristol terraced houses can spark inspiration.”

Little Red Apple strives to be environmentally friendly, using recycled and recyclable packaging and sustainable materials.

Emma says: “Bringing my designs to life is very rewarding and positive feedback from my customers is a thrill I never tire

of. Getting every piece just right requires real focus which I find calming. Running my own business enables me to work flexibly and around family life. Bristol is a really inspirational and supportive place to be with so many people keen to support small businesses such as mine.”

E: emma@littleredapple.co.uk Instagram: @littleredapple Facebook: @littleredapplecards www.littleredapplecards.etsy.com

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

December 2019

southbristolvoice

n NEWS Lantern making gets underway For the first time in nine years, there will be no winter lantern parade this December.

But fear not, as it is being held in the new year, to lift us out of the January blues.

Throughout autumn, there have been a whole host of creative activities taking place across primary schools and community centres in BS3.

Lead artist Alan May says that spectators are in for a treat on parade day which is now scheduled for the afternoon of Saturday, January 11.

Organisers have applied for a road closure plan for the whole of the route, which means there will be some disruption to journeys including public transport through the area from around 3-7pm. Chair of the Bedminster Winter Lantern Parade, Malcolm Brammer, said: “We’ll try and keep that to a minimum using our team of

voluntary road safety steward, but I do hope that people realise that our first priority has to be safety for the many hundreds of children and adults taking part in this hugely popular local event.”

• Organisers are still looking to recruit more volunteers to help run the parade on Saturday, January 11. If you can help please contact info@bwlp.org.uk

Children at Oasis Academy Marksbury Road preparing their lanterns

35

Be part of an exciting story Read all about it! South Bristol residents are being urged to be part of a reading revolution sweeping Bristol.

Shared Reading brings people together to listen to, read and talk about great stories.

More than 500 groups meet across the UK every single week, with dozens in Bristol, and now there is more opportunity to join one locally. Volunteers trained by national charity The Reader look after the groups and they pick things to read that will get people talking, sometimes with the help of their readers.

In Bristol, the Shared Reading groups are run with Bristol Libraries and are funded by Bristol Ageing Better.

Shared Reading isn’t about how much you know about books or history – it is a chance to share great stories and poems aloud, and have a good chat.

“I love it,” said Mary, one of the regulars at a group in the city.

“The wonderful thing is you don’t feel you have to be a book expert,

you just say what you think.”

Another fan, Barry, is a convert to poetry: “I’ve never understood it,” he said, “but coming here and reading poems with other people has helped me see them in a new way”.

All the groups are free to attend and open to people dropping in, with no pressure to talk or read, and new people are always given a warm welcome.

If you’d like to try it out, you can drop in to: • Whitchurch United Reformed Church, Bristol Road, Wednesdays, 10.30am – 12pm • Zion Bristol, Bishopsworth Road on Thursdays, 1.30 – 3pm • Filwood Library, Filwood Broadway on Fridays, 11.30am – 1pm If you think you could be interested in leading a group, get in touch with michaelprior@ thereader.org.uk.

The Reader offers free training and support for all volunteers.

Fostering.

When the extraordinary happens.

www.bristol.gov.uk/fostering

fostering.adoption@bristol.gov.uk /BristolFostering

Got a story for South Bristol Voice? Call Becky on 07912 484405 or email news@southbristolvoice.co.uk

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36

n THOUGHT OF THE MONTH

T

he best firework display I saw this year was a single Roman candle in a bucket of sand, watched from the safety of the church steps by a group of toddlers and their parents.

So often the things that bring real joy and delight are not costly and impressive professional displays but the homely and local.

What an empowering discovery that is! It means that our small, best efforts can be valued, rather than dismissed because they are not glossy

Regular Services n Bedminster Church of Christ

298 St John’s Lane BS3 5AY Minister: Jason Snethen 07795 560990 churchofchristbristol.org Sunday 10am Bible Hour for all ages; 11am Worship; 5pm Worship; Tuesday 7.30pm Bible study; Thursday 10am Coffee morning; Friday 3.45-5pm After-school; 7-9.30pm Youth group.

n Bedminster Quaker Meeting House Wedmore Vale BS3 5HX Clerk:

from Sally Spencer, South Bristol Methodist Church “This is the message we have heard from him and declare to you: God is light” - John 1.5

or expensive.

That is part of the Christmas message too: the history of the baby Jesus in an ordinary home in Palestine bristolnazarene.com Sunday 10.30am Sunday Service; Wednesday 6pm Kids Klub; Thursday 7pm Youth club.

n Holy Nativity Church Wells Road, Knowle BS4 2AG Fr Steve Hawkins 07834 462054 Facebook: Holy Nativity Knowle Sunday 10am Parish Mass; Friday 10.30am Weekday Mass.

n Knowle Methodist Church

Chrissie Williams 0117 923 0020 bristolquakers.org.uk Sunday Worship 10.45am; 2nd & 4th Sunday Children’s meeting; 2nd Sunday Shared lunch.

Redcatch Road, Knowle BS4 2EP Rev Sally Spencer southbristolmc.org. uk Sunday 10.30am Worship and Junior Church (Minnows for pre-school children).

n Church of the Nazarene

Talbot Road, Knowle BS4 2NP Parish Priest Fr George Henwood 0117 983 3924 • bristol.

Broad Walk, Knowle BS4 2RD Pastor: Matthew Norris 07967 199995

December 2019

n St Gerard Majella

reminds us that the sacred and the special is here too, among us in the daily routine of life.

As political parties compete for our votes and retailers urge us to spend, let’s make this Christmas a time to celebrate good relationships and the hope that comes from awareness of a power greater than stgerardmajella@cliftondiocese.com gerardmajellaknowle.co.uk Sunday Mass 9am & 5pm Tues, Weds, Fri Mass 10am Sat Exposition 9.30am Benediction 10.15am Mass 10.30am Confession 11am

n St Martin’s Wells Road, Knowle S4

2NG Rev Becky Waring 0117 977 6275 Facebook: stmartinschurchknowle Sunday 8.30am Holy Communion; 1st, 3rd and 5th Sundays 10.30am Holy Communion; 2nd Sunday 9.30am Rise and Shine: informal service, breakfast; 6pm Holy Communion; 4th Sunday 10.30am Family Communion.

n St Michael & All Angels Vivian Street, Windmill Hill BS3 4LW Rev Andrew Doarks 0117 977 6132 stmikechurch.co.uk Sunday 10am Family Service;

ourselves. And as the nights draw in and the days shorten, let’s take encouragement, because the light of life is nearer than we think.

Photo, Google Maps Wednesday 10am Family Communion

n Totterdown Baptist Church

Wells Road BS4 2AD tbc.org.uk Sunday 10.30am Morning Service; 2nd Sunday All-age Service; 6.30pm Evening Service (entrance Sydenham Road).

n Totterdown Methodist Church

Bushy Park, Totterdown BS4 2AD Rev Sally Spencer southbristolmc.org. uk Sunday Family Worship 10.30am; 1st Sunday Sunday School.

n Victoria Park Baptist Church Sylvia Avenue BS3 5DA 0117 977 2484

victoriapark.org.uk

Sunday 10.30am Service with groups for all ages; coffee 11.30am. 2nd Sunday Parade Service; 3rd Sunday Communion.

Christmas at your local churches Bedminster Church of Christ 298 St John’s Lane, BS3 5AY SUNDAY DECEMBER 22 Carol service, 5pm TUESDAY DECEMBER 24 Christmas Eve family devotional, 7.30pm WEDNESDAY JANUARY 1 New Year’s Day service, 10.30am with refreshments to follow

Church of the Nazarene

Broad Walk, Knowle BS4 2RD SUNDAY DECEMBER 16 Carols by Candlelight, 6.30pm CHRISTMAS EVE Advent Spiral: A journey with the nativity, 3.30pm CHRISTMAS DAY Christmas Day service, 10.30am

Knowle Methodist Church Redcatch Road, Knowle BS4 2EP

SUNDAY DECEMBER 8 Christingle and cafe service, led

by Rev Sally Spencer, 10.30am SATURDAY DECEMBER 14 Keynsham brass band, 7.30pm SUNDAY DECEMBER 22 Christmas communion service,

10.30am SUNDAY DECEMBER 22 Carol service followed by refreshments, 6pm TUESDAY DECEMBER 24 Crib service, 4.30pm WEDNESDAY DECEMBER 25 Christmas Day celebrations led

by Rev Sally Spencer, 10am

St Gerard Majella

Talbot Road, Knowle BS4 TUESDAY DECEMBER 24 Vigil mass of Christmas, children are invited to come dressed as biblical characters, 6m WEDNESDAY DECEMBER 25 Midnight mass of the nativity of the Lord with carols, 12am Christmas Day mass with carols, 10am THURSDAY DECEMBER 26 Mass feast of St Stephen, 10am FRIDAY DECEMBER 27 Mass Feast of St John, 10am SATURDAY DECEMBER 28 Mass Feast of the Holy Innocents, 10am SUNDAY DECEMBER 29

Mass Feast of the Holy Family, 9am & 5pm

St Peters Methodist Church Allison Road, Brislington, BS4 4NZ SUNDAY DECEMBER 15 Carole service led by Rev Sally Spencer. Music by the Bristol Concert Wind Band, 10.30am TUESDAY DECEMBER 24 Christingle service, 6.00pm

Totterdown Methodist Church

Bushy Park, Totterdown BS4 2AD SUNDAY DECEMBER 15 Carol service followed by curry/ non-spicy meal, 4pm TUESDAY DECEMBER 24 Crib service, 5pm WEDNESDAY DECEMBER 25 Christmas Day service, led by Robert Wallace, 10.30am

Victoria Park Baptist Church Sylvia Avenue BS3 5DA FRIDAY DECEMBER 6 Friday night food for all,

community Christmas social, 4-7.30pm SUNDAY DECEMBER 15 Christingle service, 10.30am FRIDAY DECEMBER 20 Christmas lunch club, 12 noon SUNDAY DECEMBER 22 Morning carol service, 10.30am SUNDAY DECEMBER 22 Carols by candlelight, 6.307.30pm MONDAY DECEMBER 24 Time for friendship and calm before the big day, 2-4pm TUESDAY DECEMBER 25 Christmas morning service (bring your favourite gift) SUNDAY DECEMBER 29 Christmas communion service, 10.30am Sunday December 8 Carols with Churches Together, 4pm at Redcatch Community Garden followed by Holy Communion at the Church of Nazarene.

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

December 2019

southbristolvoice

BRISTOL A.R.C. UPDATE

37

Bristol Animal Rescue Centre

100th anniversary is the ‘purrfect’ opportunity to donate Did you know 2020 is a very special milestone for Bristol A.R.C.? It marks 100 years of rescuing and rehoming cats.

To celebrate we are launching a special appeal!

By supporting Bristol A.R.C.’s new ‘Purrfect Pods’ Appeal, your kind donations will increase our cats’ and kittens’ daily comfort, recovery and happiness here while they wait for their new homes, by: • Equipping the cattery housing with fun, versatile cat towers, giving us cats the chance to do what we do best – jump, climb and play at different heights! These towers are extra special as they are made using recycled plastic bottles (great for the environment), they’re easy to clean, hard wearing so they last longer (even with cats scratching and flexing their claws), they are more hygienic (due to being easy to clean) and they are versatile, meaning we can move them anywhere.

• Improving the accommodation for the hospitalised cats, giving them more space and comfort while they recover from an operation or illness.

Donating to this ‘Purrfect Pods’ Appeal’s quick and easy, you can: • Call us on 01179 803906 • Visit www.bristolarc.org.uk and click on ‘donate’

• Text the word CATS, along with your donation amount, to 70450 • Post a cheque (payable to Bristol A.R.C.) to 48 Albert Road, St Philips, Bristol, BS2 0XA. Donate to this very special launch appeal and help cats to be ‘feline fine’ every day at Bristol A.R.C. - now and into the future!

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December 2019

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38

n NEWS

League cup win for U11s

Have your say on council tax

Brislington Juniors U11s - a local football team sponsored by South Bristol Voice - has won their first ever league cup.

The boys beat Bitton 4-2 at home in the final of the Hanham Minor League cup competition.

The team plays in two Hanham Minor League (HML) cup competitions each season, one in autumn and the other in spring.

Residents are being asked their views on a possible 4 per cent rise in Council Tax from next April.

Bristol City Council has launched the consultation on Council Tax for 2020/2021.

Every February, the council sets a budget for the next year which details how much money will be available to spend on each of the services the council provides.

For the second year running the council is proposing a budget with no new cuts to service funding.

Options to increase Council Tax next year (from April 2020-March 2021) have been put forward to help cover some of the existing and emerging financial pressures the council faces in delivering services.

The options range from making no change to a 2 per cent increase in the amount of Council Tax to cover the cost of general council services such as children’s services, waste and recycling, street lighting, parks, and addressing homelessness.

There is also a further option to

In the HML autumn cup competition, Brislington U11s were drawn against Bitton after both teams came top in their respective groups of four.

By winning the final, Brislington Juniors U11s finished first out of eight other teams in the Bristol area, winning four out of four games along the way - a great achievement!

n LOCAL SERVICES

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add up to an additional 2% which would go towards the cost of adult social care. (This extra amount for adult social care is referred to by the government as an Adult Social Care Precept).

Cllr Craig Cheney, Deputy Mayor for Finance, Governance, Performance and Culture, said: “We are conscious of the impact of Council Tax increases on Bristol residents and continue to lean on the government to properly fund local councils and local services.

“Services such as supporting the elderly, children’s services and homelessness support continue to be under immense pressure and support some of the most vulnerable in society.”

You can give us your views by completing the questionnaire at www.bristol.gov.uk/ budget2020-2021.

Residents can email consultation@bristol.gov.uk or call 0117 922 2848.

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