South Bristol Voice Bedminster - August 2019

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southbristolvoice

August 2019

August No. 46 2019

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www.southbristolvoice.co.uk

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We Sell and Let Property Like Yours

WIDEST CIRCULATION IN SOUTH BRISTOL – 10,900 copies of this edition

FREE EVERY MONTH in Bedminster, Southville, Ashton & Ashton Vale

Community pays tribute to Father Jack ... a true local legend

INSIDE • THOUSANDS RAISED FOR ROSIE P6 • REVEALED: A FUTURE EAST STREET P10-11

Pages 14-15

A cat among the pigeons

When a Windmill Hill resident’s rescue cat went missing, she couldn’t help but fear the worst.

Samantha Jenkins had adopted Oscar while volunteering at a refugee camp in Greece - he was a stray and she took him under her wing.

She brought him home to Bristol over a month ago but when he didn’t return home one evening after being let out, concern started to set in.

Samantha put out a desperate plea on social media to find her black and white cat who had been missing for two nights.

It wasn’t until Samantha was

• ATHLETE ANNE IS AN INSPIRATION P12 • IN PICTURES: EAST STREET FAYRE P34-35

Read more, P13

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Contacts

Becky Day Editorial director 07912 484405 news@southbristolvoice.co.uk Ruth Drury Sales director 07590 527664 sales@southbristolvoice.co.uk Rich Coulter Production director 07775 550607 info@southbristolvoice.co.uk

Independent Community News Network member

Next month’s deadline for editorial and advertising is August 14.

Deliveries: Greg Champion

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August 2019

southbristolvoice HOW DO I GET IN TOUCH WITH ...

My MP? Karin Smyth MP By email: karin.smyth.mp@ parliament.uk By post: Karin Smyth MP, House of Commons, London SW1A 0AA By phone: 0117 953 3575 In person: Call 0117 953 3575 for an appointment.

My councillor?

Post: (all councillors) City Hall, College Green, Bristol BS1 5TR. Celia Phipps Labour, Bedminster

By phone: 07469 413312 By email: Cllr.celia.phipps@bristol.gov.uk Mark Bradshaw Labour, Bedminster. By email: Cllr.mark. bradshaw@bristol.gov.uk By phone: 0117 353 3160 Stephen Clarke Green, Southville By email: Cllr.stephen.clarke@ bristol.gov.uk Charlie Bolton Green, Southville By phone: 07884 736111 By email: Cllr.charlie.bolton@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

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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 in this or any other plane of the multiverse.

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August 2019

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n NEWS

Ade’s contribution to the n NEWS Garden event Send us your community celebrated raises £1,500 balloon pics!

It may have been a rainy weekend, but Bedminster’s Secret Gardens event in June still raised a whopping £1,500.

The money donated will go towards providing small grants to local projects with a particular focus on young people and intergenerational work.

Organisers have thanked everyone who opened their gardens and made the grants possible.

If you are a part of a group which wants help make our community greener and more sustainable, you can apply for a grant of up to £200 to help.

Your group must work in the Greater Bedminster area and the deadline for applications is September 1. For more details and an application form, email laura_murgatroyd@hotmail.com or pick up an application form from the Southville Centre.

A Bedminster pharmacist has much to celebrate after receiving national recognition in two prestigious awards.

Ade Williams of Bedminster Pharmacy in Cannon Street not only scooped the ‘GP Pharmacist of the Year 2019’ award, as part of the Primary Care Pharmacy Association Awards, but also

the ‘Excellence in Primary Care’ award as part of the NHS Parliamentary Awards.

The pharmacist was nominated for the latter award by South Bristol MP Karin Smyth.

You can read more about why Ade was nominated in his latest column on pg. 20.

Summer in Bristol is a magical time ... especially when the sights and sounds of hot air balloons start filling the air.

August is particularly special as many flock to the city from far and near to witness the International Balloon Fiesta.

This year, it is taking place from August 8-11, and we are asking our readers to send us their best photos of hot air balloons for a chance to be featured in our September issue.

Email your photos to news@ southbristolvoice.co.uk. Happy snapping and enjoy the spectacle!

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

August 2019

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n NEWS

Suspended nursery bounces back with ‘Good’ Ofsted rating A nursery in North Street is celebrating a ‘Good’ Ofsted rating, just months after it was temporarily closed by the education watchdog.

North Street Nursery was forced to suspend registration for six weeks in April after the nursery team reported concerns to Ofsted about the actions of a new staff member.

The member of staff in question was immediately suspended and then dismissed.

Following an investigation by Ofsted, the 93-place provision was reopened at the end of May, welcoming back the vast majority of its registered children.

The nursery says that parents were “incredibly supportive” throughout the process.

North Street Nursery – set up

by Southville couple Adam and Vicky to meet the local demand for childcare and to create a community-focused hub at the heart of the high street – had

North Street Nursery was closed by Ofsted in April but reopened in May - and has now received a ‘Good’ Ofsted rating

only been operating on the high street for five months before it was forced to close.

It opened its doors in November last year, in the former Denny’s Bakery site, following overwhelming support from the local community and parents.

In June, the nursery received an unexpected visit and full inspection from Ofsted, which rated the provision ‘Good’ across all areas.

The report recognised that

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“babies and children develop a close bond with their key person” which has a “positive impact on building children's confidence to help them explore, be curious and feel safe”.

Children's emotional wellbeing was also highlighted as “good”. The report also then goes on to say that “staff provide a good range of resources that reflect children's interests” and that staff “know how to interact effectively with children to spark their imagination”.

North Street Nursery said: “In April this year, the nursery team acted immediately following the actions of a new staff member.

“Ofsted automatically suspended the registration for six weeks whilst they worked closely with the management team to ensure everything was compliant.

“This was an example of an incredibly supportive group of parents, who had grown to know the staff team of more than 16 including many local staff.”

Since opening, the nursery says that it has “relentlessly focused on its child led practice, community feel and in achieving the very best for all children in attendance”.

The nursery added that the outcome of the recent Ofsted inspection is “further reason for the nursery to be proud of an incredibly dedicated team of staff and grateful, for such active and supportive parents”.

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North Street Nursery aims to create a unique childcare experience for our neighbourhood. Something within easy reach for parents which provides opportunity, character and simplicity, whilst enriching and caring for its community.

Children learn to be strong and independent through warm positive relationships. We believe a child will thrive in a rich, nurturing environment, that includes the cultures and diversities around them and in turn, develop a positive sense of their own identity.

We provide care for babies from 6 months right up to preschool toddlers, located at the heart of the North Street community, with 3 dedicated rooms and a unique roof terrace garden for outdoor play and activities. We feel strongly about including our parents in their child’s journey, using a secure digital tool to track their development and keep you updated on their progress and our nursery news at every step.

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August 2019

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n NEWS Rosie can now receive treatment ... thanks to the community’s generosity and kindness nerves in her arm and foot.

Rosie’s mum and dad, Mary and Paul, are hoping that she will undergo the treatment at Salisbury hospital over the summer holidays.

Mary says that if the surgery is successful, she hopes that it will pave the way for other children to have the treatment under the NHS. She said: “We’re really hoping that the treatment works, so no other family has to go through this.”

Rosie has battled with her health since she suffered a brain haemorrhage at just nine-weeks old. Despite this, Mary says that the 10-year-old has always remained bubbly and positive and has never let anything stop her.

But Mary says that Rosie has

The family of a local schoolgirl has given its heartfelt thanks to the South Bristol community after thousands were raised to afford the youngster treatment to restore sensation and movement in her right arm and right foot.

Rosie Carter, 10, a Luckwell Primary School pupil, was left partially paralysed after undergoing 16 hours of brain surgery earlier this year to help control her epilepsy.

To restore movement and feeling, Rosie needs to undergo electronic stimulation therapy – a procedure not currently available for children under the NHS. But the money raised – totalling more than £3,500 – will help afford Rosie the treatment, which will effectively wake up the

become upset about not being able to use her arm and foot properly and is desperate to get back into dancing again.

To raise the funds, a number of activities were organised in the local area and at Rosie’s school, including cake sales, raffles and a ‘Run for Rosie’ event at the Windmill Hill junior Parkrun on June 23.

Around £600 was raised at the Parkun and everyone who donated entered a raffle with prizes donated by local businesses including Aardman, Acting Out, Ashton Park Sports Centre, Axis Trampolining,

Creative Space, Redpoint Bristol, Storysmith and Toyville.

Mary says that the family has been completely overwhelmed at the support and generosity of the local community.

Mary said: “We are so thankful to everyone who came along to the Parkrun for Rosie – people were saying so many kinds words. I’m shocked at how kind everyone has been.

“We also need to say a big thank you to Sharon Redfern – she used to work at the school Rosie goes to and she has gone above and beyond what was she expected to do.”

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August 2019

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n NEWS

Why borrowing and sharing toys is so important A south Bristol charity is offering families with young children a more sustainable and cheaper alternative to buying toys.

The South Bristol Toy Library, at the United Reform Church in Stanley Street South, offers a space for children to play with more than 500 toys, from puzzles to slides, and has been serving the local community for three years.

It promotes the importance of play, the sharing and reusing of toys, and aims to support the development of children from all backgrounds.

The group meets every other Saturday and is run solely by volunteers. There are currently over 100 members signed up to use the library.

Membership is £15 per family – families on benefits pay a reduced rate – which entitles parents and carers to hire up to four toys a time for up to four weeks at a minimal fee. Families can also drop-in for ‘stay and play’ at £1 per session.

In addition, the library hires out soft play equipment for children’s birthday parties.

A recent £1k grant from Greggs’ local community projects fund has afforded the library to refresh its stock, with toys supplied by Toyville in North Street.

Stacy Yelland, the chair of the trustees, said: “It’s so important that children can have access to toys, particularly those families who don’t have lots of money,

Families and volunteers at the South Bristol Toy Library and we have a broad range here at the library – from the more sensory toys for young children to the more science and tech based toys for older children.”

Bev Forsythe-Cheasley, a volunteer at the library, said: “What I love about the toy library is the environmental side of it and how it encourages parents to not buy new as often. Kids get bored of toys quite quickly, so it’s good to borrow – and we have lots of good quality toys here to share.”

“Volunteering here is also great because I can bring my two kids along.”

Alison Hicks, who lives in Totterdown and volunteers at the library, said: “I started volunteering at the library after moving to Bristol – it’s been really fun and a great way to get to know local parents.”

Andrew Valentine, whose

two-year-old daughter uses the library, said: “It’s nice because there’s such a broad range of toys, including more educational stuff, and it is a really good resource if you can’t afford the more expensive toys.

“A lot of thought and effort has gone into this place. There’s also drinks and snacks too which is a good incentive for the adults.”

Mum Annie Berry launched the library in 2016 from her home in Southville, after using a toy library on a family trip to New Zealand.

It was set up as a charity and is now supported by Windmill Hill City Farm as part of the farm’s community initiative.

For more information about the South Bristol Toy Library, visit southbristoltoylibrary. co.uk or email: hello@ southbristoltoylibrary.co.uk.

Families can sign up for memberships at one of the library’s sessions. The next sessions are held on August 10 and 24, and September 7 and 21.

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

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August 2019

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n NEWS

Lantern parade set to light up January 2020

Bedminster’s famous winter lantern parade will be going ahead, despite organisers still needing to raise more cash.

The team behind the popular annual parade say that they decided to give the event the green light following “overwhelming demand” from the local community.

It has also been scheduled for the new year following feedback from local people who said that they preferred the event in January, to brighten up the shorter, darker days.

The parade will take place on January 11.

Chair of the Bedminster Winter Lantern Parade Malcolm Brammar says the efforts to

get more funding will continue throughout the year but the creative team can now be recruited and the operational planning of the event started.

The three-month lantern making programme in local primary schools and community centres will begin across BS3 in autumn.

Malcolm said: “Many people have told BWL they preferred the popular event bringing light and colour during the month of January, so weather permitting, the early evening of Saturday January 11th 2020 will be the climax of project with the spectacular parade of illuminated lanterns taking to the streets, followed by the fireworks finale.”

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How age-friendly is our area?

As part of a drive to make Bedminster Bristol’s leading age-friendly neighbourhood, residents and businesses are being asked to identify key issues in the area for elderly people.

A consortium of local organisations are behind the campaign to improve the age friendliness of our local streets and will be collating information on what aspects of BS3 are age-friendly and age-hostile.

A list of friendly and non-friendly features will be published by the group in September.

If you have any suggestions on how to make BS3 more age-friendly or would like to be involved in any way, email: greaterbedminster@ gmail.com.

Buy these meals to help tackle summer holiday hunger Two south Bristol eateries are serving up special ‘green’ dishes this summer as part of a campaign to provide over 40,000 meals to children at holiday clubs and projects across the city.

Hobbs House Bakery and TinCan Coffee in North Street are two of 11 Bristol food businesses supporting FareShare South West’s #ActiveAteBristol campaign.

From now until September 1, Hobbs House Bakery is serving a Tuscan bread salad – a chopped salad of soaked organic turmeric and chilli sourdough, delicious sweet red tomatoes, avocado and fresh herbs – and TinCan Coffee, a green power bowl and green machine smoothie.

A percentage of money raised from people buying these greeninspired dishes will go towards the campaign.

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August 2019

n A FUTURE EAST STREET

Is this how our high street could

In last month’s South Bristol Voice, we shared news that a new vision was going to be unveiled for East Street.

Now, illustrations can finally be published and the team behind the designs wants to hear

your feedback.

Bedminster’s Business Improvement District (BID) team commissioned local architects Purcell to mock up the designs, which have been almagamated following various

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consultation events and surveys with local people.

The designs for the high street were unveiled at the East Street Fayre on July 13, where residents were asked to fill out a consultation form about what they like and dislike about the designs.

Some of the ideas shared within the visuals include: • Integrating street art along the shopping thoroughfare • Cleaning and redecorating existing facades • Widening pavements to include external seating for cafes and restaurants • Planting trees • Building creative street furniture • Developing additional creative co-working spaces • Developing residential accommodation above shops A cost for the project has not

yet been confirmed but the BID team says that it is likely to be funded through the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) - the monies paid by developers to support the development of the area - or through the government’s High Streets Fund, which is worth £675m.

George Grace who runs the Bedminster BID, said: “Things are going to go from bad to much worse for all UK high streets in the coming 2-3 years as banks and travel agencies disappear and even restaurants come under enormous pressure.

‘There are two ways the high street can respond. Firstly make it a great place to live on or next to; and secondly improve the ‘experience’ when you visit in order you want to come again and again and stay longer and longer.

“If we are honest with

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August 2019

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n A FUTURE EAST STREET

look in the not too distant future?

ourselves, East Street needs a face lift and needs to become a more attractive destination in the minds of Bristolians - that is what this process is about.

“However we don’t want it to become a version of North Street or Cabot Circus but a better version of what it already offers to existing customers whilst attracting new ones.”

If you wish to share your feedback about the designs, or would like further information, visit: bedminster.org.uk/ eastvision. The consultation finishes at the end of August.

Main illustrations, designed by architects Purcell, depict a future vision for East Street. The computer generator images have been created based on the below photos of the high street

When a pint of snails was sold for sixpence

by Maurice Fells The shops of Bedminster once attracted customers from many parts of Bristol.

East Street from the London Inn right down to Bedminster Parade at the other end had a character of its own. Many shops which lined both sides of the road were family-owned and customers found there was no need to visit Broadmead to shop. Everything

they wanted could be found here.

And besides, prices were usually most competitive.

East Street may not have been able to boast of a candlestickmaker but it had the butcher, baker, greengrocer and watchrepairer. Perhaps its most unusual shop was the one affectionately known as The Cockle Shop. Eugene Bryan’s business - it occupied two shops next door to each other - was officially listed in trade directories as ‘Shell Fish merchant’.

Founded in 1920 it became well-known for its cockles, mussels and winkles. For enterprising youngsters like myself it gave us a chance to boost our pocket

money by selling Eugene a pint glass of snails. When he advertised for snails in his shop window we would spend hours scouring the garden for them, especially after rain storms which always brought them out of hiding.

Any old snail would do it seemed, from the one sitting on a prize-winning dahlia in the garden to the one creeping towards the kitchen door. Mr Bryan paid sixpence (in old money) for a full glass of snails.

Opposite The Cockle Shop was a business well-known for its pick and mix counter of broken biscuits and crisps. Further down the road was Bristol Wireless where young

people spent Saturday mornings in the record department listening to the latest hits in the Top Ten. The store manager would lend us a pair of headphones to hear the discs but was most disappointed when we left without buying anything.

All these shops permanently closed their doors many years ago and Bedminster is all the poorer in character for it.

Do you have any memories of the local are you’d like to share with us? Call 07912484405 or email news@southbristolvoice.co.uk.

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

August 2019

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12

n NEWS

Athlete Anne is proof that age is no barrier One Southville resident is challenging perceptions around older people participating in sport – and the 71-year-old athlete has a few world titles under her belt to prove that age is no barrier.

Last year, Anne Dockery – who only took up running at the age of 55 – won gold in the Duathlon World Championships in Denmark and was part of the GB team which topped the medal table at the World Masters Athletics Championships in Malaga in the 4x400m relay. In that same competition, she also won three individual bronze medals in the 800m, 1500m and 5000m as well as a team bronze in 4x100 relay.

The retired drama teacher regularly runs 1500m in well under seven minutes and her 5k PB is 20.47, which she set at 64-years-old.

Anne, who is originally from Lancashire but moved to Bristol from America 18 months ago, can also run the Ashton Court Parkrun in 26.24 – no mean feat for anyone who has ever attempted it.

Anne’s achievements and her zest for living an active life are so inspiring that images of her competing will form part of a free, month-long photo exhibition in College Green this August.

The display, called NO LIMITS, showcases 35 images of elite older athletes as well as locals participating in health and fitness activities, shot by Bristolbased photographer Alex Rotas.

Funded by Bristol Health Partners, the exhibition is being put together by Active Ageing Bristol, a collaboration between Bristol Sport Foundation, St Monica Trust and The Anchor Society.

Anne met Alex at the Malaga

Anne Dockery proving age is no barrier to sport at the World Masters Athletics Championships in Malaga.

Photo by Alex Rotas

World Championships. Like Anne, Alex wants to challenge widely held misconceptions about what growing older means and encourage fresh thinking on what older people can do to stay fit, healthy, engaged and happy.

Speaking about being featured in the exhibition, Anne say that “it’s very nice, but scary.”

Anne, who had been a heavy smoker until her 40s, took up running 16 years ago after being diagnosed with bronchiectasis – a lung condition affecting the airways.

“I’ve been cycling all my life, but I’d never ran before – I thought it was a bit boring really,” said Anne. “I was then entered into a race, and that was it, I came third in my age group and thought, I like this.”

She added: “As you get older, it’s harder to find things to dream about and look forward to, as you’ve done so much already.

“When you’re running, there’s

Court and before long, I was joining everyone who had hit milestones for cake. It’s free and you can have a go at it. If you can’t run, come and volunteer.

You cannot imagine how grateful the runners are when you volunteer.”

Although a big advocate of running, Anne recognises it is not for everyone. “For me, what makes me happy is if I run well in a race, but it doesn’t matter if you’re walking – it’s just good to get out there.”

The grandmother of two added: “If you look around there are so many negative images of older people, like those signs of us crossing the road. I just want to give a positive idea of old age and that being old is exciting.

“Of course, there are things that can go wrong with you, but that’s part of it. The point is that people can run and do these things … being old just means you’ve got a few extra years on you. I think you’ve got to find ways to keep looking forward to things and being with a mixture of people, young and old.”

The NO LIMITS exhibition opens on College Green on August 1 and runs until August 28. Viewing is free and because the eco-friendly displays are fitted with solar lighting, they can be seen at any time.

always another little challenge, whether you’re trying to knock minutes off your Parkrun time, or a second off your 800 metres.

You can turn anything into a challenge – and that’s what I’ve loved.”

Anne says that she also loves the camaraderie of participating in sport – and since moving to Bristol, she has been overwhelmed at how supportive and encouraging the running and triathlon communities have been. “I’m so grateful to all these people – they don’t treat you any different because you’ve got grey hair.”

Anne trains five days a week, which includes track sessions with Bristol and West Athletics, “I just want to give a and she enjoys the Ashton Court positive idea of old age 5k Parkrun on a Saturday. PROPERTY MAINTENANCE “Parkruns are the best thing and that being old is INTERIOR & EXTERIOR PAINTING – the community is wonderful,” exciting.” said Anne. “When I moved to FENCING • PATIOS • LANDSCAPING Bristol, I didn’t know many LOG STORES • GUTTERING • FASCIAS people so started going to Ashton

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n NEWS

Owner’s relief as beloved cat is rescued from tree Continued from front page walking through St John’s burial ground, off St John’s Lane, with her dog - also rescued and brought home from Greece - that she heard a familiar noise.

Ali Milree scaling the tree to rescue Oscar

Nestled in a bird’s nest, high up in the branches of a tree was Oscar.

After an urgent call for help on the Windmill Hill and Victoria Park Facebook group, Bedminster tree surgeon, Ali Milree, came to the rescue.

An hour later, after carefully manoeuvring between branches, Ali managed to bring Oscar back to safety - much to the relief of his owner, friends and onlookers gathered in the park.

Speaking to the South Bristol Voice, Samantha said: “It was such a huge relief when I found that he was alive. He’s my best buddy and the best cat in the world.

“I am so happy that he is home and safe.”

She says it is not the first time this has happened and she once had to rescue Oscar from a tree in Greece.

Oscar being caught in a blanket after tree surgeon Ali dropped him to safety from the branch above It was the first time that Ali, who has been working as a self-employed tree suregeon for three years, has been called on to rescue a cat.

He was just on his way home from work when he received the desperate call from Samantha.

He said: “All tree surgeons get a call out at some point - I know a few guys who have rescued cats from trees.”

Best of buddies - Oscar with Casey the rescue dog

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

August 2019

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14

n FATHER JACK HOUSE

19th July 1935 - 21st June 2019

Tributes paid to ‘legendary figure’ who will be sorely missed Continued from front page A “complete one-off” and “legendary figure” have been just some of the many endearments used to describe Father Jack House, who sadly passed aged 83.

A funeral was held for the much-loved and well-known vicar and teacher on July 18 at Holy Nativity in Knowle, the church of which Father Jack had been a “faithful friend”.

In a post shared on Facebook on June 21, announcing that Father Jack had passed away earlier that day, Holy Nativity wrote: “RIP Father Jack House.

“It is with great sadness we have to report Father Jack passed away earlier today. Please remember him and Rosemary in your prayers.

“He was a much loved, faithful friend of Holy Nativity and someone who touched many people’s lives. Requiescat In Pace.”

Hundreds of tributes were paid in response to the sad news, with members of the local community taking to social media to share fond memories of Father Jack, or Mr House, as he was known to his former students.

Many gave their condolences

“He was a much loved faithful friend of Holy Nativity and someone who touched many people’s lives.” to his wife Rosemary, with some friends recalling happy memories shared with the couple.

Heartfelt messages were shared about the devoted Bristol City fan on the football club’s ‘One team in Bristol’ online forum – many remembering him as a “larger than life character”; someone who had a “heart of gold” and “never took life too seriously”.

Born and raised in BS3, Father Jack dedicated his adult life to serving the local community, not just as a vicar but also as a teacher and school governor for many years.

He conducted christenings, marriages, and funerals for thousands of local people, and inspired many colleagues with his knowledge and approach to ministering.

Local councillor pays tribute to Father Jack, pg. 27

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n Like Concorde, you could hear Jack before you saw him. They don’t make ‘em like that no more. He was a complete one-off. n What a sad loss of a really massive character. Some of the posts on here really bring back some great memories of the great Jack House, particularly of his RE lessons at Ashton Park School. n I attended my neighbour’s funeral service which Jack House took. When he started to speak there were more than a few ex pupils that sat up straight. I would have loved my children to have experienced Mr House as a their teacher. n A “one off”. A constant throughout my lifetime. He taught me at Ashton Park; Christened my children and buried my Dad. The loveliest of people. Thoughts and prayers to Rosemary. “May he Rest in Peace and Rise in Glory”.

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n Two words to strike fear into any Ashton Parkers from the 1980s.

Youuuuuu Boyyyyyy!!!!!

n A unique man: funny, helpful, dedicated and caring (and also a bit scary when a teenager at school!). Such a loss to the community and, personally, to my family who have known him since my dad was a boy. My thoughts are with Jack and his family. n Jack had a heart of gold and never took himself or life too seriously. My mum once went on

holiday with him and Rosemary and when Jack had to take his belt off at the metal detector his trousers fell down - in the middle of Bristol Airport. Jack just roared with laughter, while Rosemary cringed! At the same time, he could be fiercely passionate about causes he cared for, including Bristol City, and there must be few priests anywhere in this country so prone to effing and jeffing when riled up about something. The Post called him a one-off and he certainly was that. Goodnight Jack. RIP true Red. n We had some splendid times at South Street as governors together. Jack and Rosemary changed many lives for the better.

Thank you Jack House for being such a wonderful human being.

God bless you. n So sad to hear this. What a character and such a kind and charismatic man. n Only ever had one run in with Mr House, but that was enough!

Aged about 12, I got caught running the corridors at lunch break until I got cornered by old Jack! On trying to apologise and protest my innocence I was told “Boy, I don’t want your sorrow”.

Turns out what he did want was a 500 word essay on why I shouldn’t run in corridors, which isn’t as easy as you might think!

Comments from Holy Nativity Facebook page and Bristol City online forum, ‘One Team in Bristol’

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

August 2019

southbristolvoice

n FATHER JACK HOUSE

15

19th July 1935 - 21st June 2019

‘I’ve been proud to call Jack my friend’ Father Jack House touched the lives of many local people with his infectious humour, kind heartedness, and dedication to the local community. A close friend shares his fond memories of Father Jack and reflects on why the vicar was such an extraordinary character ...

Father Jack House was not a ‘normal vicar’. He was a oneoff, a well known, and indeed legendary figure not only in the churches in which he served but throughout the community in Bedminster and Ashton Gate and beyond.

I’ve been proud to call Jack my friend and mentor for over 30 years. We shared a common background coming from fairly humble beginnings; Jack from Pearl Street in Bedminster and me from St George in East Bristol. We had an awful lot in common with one exception.

He was one of Bristol City’s biggest fans; a season ticket holder, a shareholder and a member of the Senior Reds.

He followed his beloved City through good times and bad and never lost ‘the faith’. A well known figure at the City ground the wonderful comments on the City forum ‘One team in Bristol’ are a tribute to a man who was both loved and respected. As for myself, I am a true blue, a supporter of Bristol Rovers and for some years honoury chaplain to the club.

We were both ‘ecumenical’ in our football and apart from some good natured ribbing it was never a source of any conflict between us. I once invited him to preach at a Bristol Rovers carol service at St Anne’s Church in Brislington where I was the vicar and Jack was Hon. Assistant Curate. It was all going well until Jack pulled off his robes revealing a Bristol City shirt underneath! The comments from the congregation were not the ones you usually hear in church!

I was proud and delighted when Jack married my wife Caroline and myself on 2nd February 2002 also at St Anne’s church. He wore his City scarf

and I wore my blue and white Rovers scarf.

Jack taught RE for over 30 years at Ashton Park School where generations of pupils remember him with affection and a little fear. He was well known for his accuracy with the board rubber! He went on to marry, baptise and sadly officiate at the funerals of those he had taught.

He was always delighted when former pupils greeted him in the street.

He served the community in so many ways not least as a governor at Ashton Gate Primary, South Street Primary School (now Compass Point) and Ashton Vale Primary School. In 2006, he campaigned to restore a commemorative window at South Street Primary School dedicated to the former pupils killed in the Great War. His campaigning also led to blue plaques being placed on the homes of great but sometimes, little known, Bristolians.

A lifelong socialist, he was a member of the Bedminster branch of the Labour party, the Christian Socialist Movement as well as Amnesty International, Christian Action, the Campaign for the Abolition of Capital Punishment, and the Homosexual Law Reform Society.

He was incredibly well read and described himself as a life-long student. He gained a Bachelor of Education from St Matthias College of Education then in Fishponds and a University of London Master of Arts in Religious Education and a Master of Theology in Church History from the University of Wales.

He was a wonderful priest in the Church of England who saw no distinction between ministering in the church and

ministering in the community.

He loved the ritual and ceremonial of the High Church, Anglo-Catholic tradition which he described as ‘Bells and Smells’. He was loved and respected by all who were privileged enough to know him.

I learned so much from Jack as a man and as a priest. The way I conduct weddings, funerals etc, is

just as Jack took them. A couple of years ago I had a meeting with the then Bishop of Bristol. In the course of our conversation he told me, ‘You know what Steve, you’re not a normal priest’. I smiled and said a silent prayer of thanks for Jack House.

Reverend Steven Hawkins Holy Nativity, Knowle

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

August 2019

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16

n CREATIVE COLUMN

with LIVI HARRISON TiG KIDS

Walls talk - the importance of your child’s bedroom decor

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ecorating your child’s bedroom will be a huge factor in their sense of belonging and selfesteem, and will inspire them in their creativity and imagination.

In fact, by building a peaceful yet invigorating space that reflects their characters and likes, you are saying to them: “You matter. You’re safe here. You belong here. Be yourself!”

Building around your child’s interests is the most important part in designing your kids’ room.

Picking their favourite colours, understanding their passions and transforming these into a timeless design creates a space that grows with them and will give them fond memories over their changing years.

A good wall design makes a tranquil, spacious room with playful, cosy details, and adds warmth and colour. It gives subtle character, but does not overwhelm the space, leaving room for the child’s imagination. It allows your

give a room a calming, open touch; adding a simple wall mural in a character tone will create cosy and creative details.

Comfortable and cuddly textiles, cushions will finish off the look of the cosy corners, and complete the design theme of the room.

Darker, warm background tones create a cosy, intimate feel, and allow for a touch of daring bright coloured theme to light up the walls, whether it is a piece of artwork or a wall mural.

The look can be completed with a balance of bright and complementing dark coloured textiles, cushions blankets, and even some daring coloured furniture.

We at TiG KIDS are interior decorators, creating fun spots to chill, play and inspire.

Our designs are timeless and effortlessly stylish. little one’s mind to just freely be and reinvent the world around

them every day. Working with neutral, light background colours

To find out more about what we do, visit our website, www.tigkids.com.

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August 2019

southbristolvoice

n THE MAYOR

Our green and pleasant land

17

MARVIN REES Mayor of Bristol can continue bringing great benefits to as many people in the city as possible.

If you can see an opportunity to improve our green spaces, tell your local councillors what you can bring and what you want to see as a result.

I want everyone to be able to access, use and appreciate nature’s scenery. Working with communities and partners across the city, we can make sure Bristol has good quality, attractive and enjoyable parks.

An aim of Bristol’s One City Plan, a document that sets out ambitious targets for the future of Bristol, decade by decade up to 2050, is for everyone to have access to excellent quality green space within a 10-minute walk from their home, by 2036.

Delivering this goal will be a challenge but it is vital that we meet it, not only for the city’s lungs and public areas, but for the health and wellbeing of every one of us who calls Bristol their home.

I

am proud that Bristol is one of eight organisations to be awarded £900,000 by the National Lottery Heritage Fund to transform the future of our parks.

Parks and green spaces such as playing fields and nature reserves improve the quality of the air we breathe and provide a habitat for wildlife.

They’re also great places to exercise, meet friends, and relax, which is important for our health and wellbeing.

I regularly go on park runs, and find that greenery not only makes the challenge of a run worthwhile but also offers a moment to pause and take a break from the rush of the city.

But not everyone can access a park easily, and too many people are missing out.

Although our Quality of Life survey found the proportion of residents who visit Bristol’s parks and green spaces at least once a week has increased to 80% from 56% in 2018, our poorest residents are often disconnected from these areas.

The benefits that these spaces bring are not equally distributed and needs to change.

This funding is designed to help councils find sustainable ways to manage and fund parks and open spaces.

It will mean we can find our potential to deliver health benefits matched to areas of greatest need.

We hope to provide mental and physical exercise programmes in these areas so that we

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

August 2019

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Please keep letters as short as possible, LETTERS and provide your postal address.

Location, location In reply to the letter by Marilyn Nash in the July edition of the SBV I agree with all of her comments about the proposed new development at the Old Brewery being in Ashton Gate and not the ever growing ‘monster’ that is Southville.

Marilyn, you neglected to mention the Ashton Gate tollhouse, from which the area gets its name and which is across on the other side of the road and now, laughingly, in Southville!

How can this be?

We all know the answer. It is to push up the prices of the properties in the Old Brewery.

Anyone who thinks otherwise needs their bumps felt.

Phil Hutchings, Ashton

Grass not greener I can see how the Ashton family (July issue) might be a bit annoyed in having resident foxes, especially if there is a whole family. But what saddens me is that the trend for paving over

front lawns, where all you now see are cars instead of carnations, seems to have spread to back gardens as well.

I winced when I read ‘artifical grass’ had been installed. Children (and indeed, adults) are missing out on the benefits of the small amounts of nature that would have been theirs to enjoy (the possibility of bees, butterflies, frogs, hedgehogs and real grass).

And, of course, nature is missing out and being pushed out so that is it any wonder that the more daring and adaptable species inch their way in, under decking and yes, even rooting up artificial grass?

Helen Price, by email

United we stand When can we have a secular viewpoint for ‘Thought for the Month’? I try to keep calm in the face of woe and uncertainty, and life’s complex diversity.

But after we have interpreted the world in religious and scientific terms, the question remains - how do we change it for

Write to news@southbristolvoice.co.uk or to 111 Broadfield Rd, Knowle, Bristol BS4 2UX

the better? How can we bring a halt to the tyrants and tycoons, as havoc continues on a global scale?

My belief rests on our knowledge of the human genome.

Our DNA as homo sapiens shows how much we belong together as a common race. We have an evolutionary history, together with other life forms, through natural selection, looking back over many thousands of years.

We are capable of relating collectively in peace and friendship. I hope that with united willpower we mortals can imagine a way to make life better, here and now for the next generations.

April Foy, BS3

A wildlife corridor The history pages of South Bristol Voice are a special feature and none more so than the June and July editions with their accounts of the building of the Avon New Cut. More senior members of my family tell me they remember The Cut in days when it was very heavily polluted and gave off a matching stench. They are

delighted to know it now has nature reserve status and there is a group dedicated to looking after this unique inner-city wildlife corridor.

This group, Friends of the Avon New Cut (FrANC for short) has 140 subscribers to its mailing list and up to 50 of those have been loyal supporters of the river bank clean-up programme we arrange before the birds take up nest-building. We also organise walks and talks: its history is a rich one; so too is the varied natural history, giving us an allimportant extra ‘lung’ in a busy city. This year alone, wildflower surveys have identified up to 100 species just on the banks and slipways by Gaolferry Bridge.

It was pleasing to see in your articles acknowledgement of the publication by Fiducia Press, A Celebration of the Avon New Cut, written in 2006, a detailed and well-illustrated account of many aspects of the tidal river. Boats can be seen there. Bristol Ferry Boats do arrange two or three summer trips up the Cut as far as Netham Weir when the tide

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

August 2019

southbristolvoice

n THE DRAGONFLY JAR ... Trollied! allows. It is well worth trying to book a place.

I know we’d all love to see The Chocolate Path back in service. As tourism increases and the Harbourside attracts more crowds, the banks of the tidal Cut are a resource to be cherished; without The Chocolate Path the health-providing circular walk or cycle-ride with the best views is denied us.

On the north side of the Cut by a bench just down from the harbour railway’s entry onto Cumberland Road a small plaque acknowledges the important work of John Purkiss in getting FrANC up and running. Derek Hughes and Sara Worth continued his good work until they moved from the area this year. Our friendly committee feels slightly smaller today than we’d like it to be.

Anyone interested in joining us or finding out more, or obtaining a signed copy of the book mentioned, can visit franc.org.uk or email contact@franc.org.uk.

Tim Wickstead, Chair FrANC

Jeanne Fairs: Navigating through life’s challenges with irreverence and humour

T

he older I get the more I realise how valuable childhood games were – particularly the ones that involved our family tea trolley.

Back then we had the exclusive use of a large playroom. No nannies or baby monitors threatened our fun; our parents liked to take a long snooze on a Sunday afternoon (banning us from the lounge).

This meant that we pretty much had the run of the playroom and the adjacent workshop (our dad loved a power tool). Being the youngest, I sometimes viewed this workshop with trepidation.

To me it looked like a small dark room with a customised workbench; to my sisters it was a make-believe operating theatre or dentist’s surgery. Needless to say, being the infant, I was usually the patient, and was often wheeled in

n NEWS

on my mother’s tea trolley to be greeted by one of my sisters who would be gowned up and ready to use the bench vice. I still hold a deep suspicion about doctors and dentists.

We sometimes performed Sunday evening tableaus for the groggy heads that by then would be rising from their Sunday papers – remember us, parents? Those feral children you left cavorting in the playroom? Our extravaganzas would involve plenty of dressing up and further customisation of the tea trolley. Anyway, our tea trolley enjoyed starring roles in many of our amateur dramatic performances and once worked as an effective prop for our budding conjurer (my middle sister) when she sliced her beautiful assistant in two (me, youngest sister). It was a great performance, but sadly that is not an appendix scar I sport.

This leaves me wondering why people no longer use tea trolleys?

Surely a reintroduction could work like Deliveroo without the middleman.

I am off to buy a tea trolley; my Sister Act could still have wheels. www.thedragonfyjar.com

19

Free family picnic at Windmill Hill Families are being invited to join children’s charity Travelling Light Theatre and 2018 Bake Off star Terry Hartill for a free family picnic at Windmill Hill City Farm.

The ‘Yes Let’s Big Picnic’ will take place on August 18, 123pm – families can either pack a picnic, or buy food form the award winning Farm Café.

Children can play theatre games with Travelling Light, listen to picnic themed stories, and take part in fun outdoor games.

You can also run your own picnic as part of the ‘Yes Let’s Picnic Week’ (August 12-18).

To take part all you need to do prepare your favourite sandwiches and cakes, choose a location and invite family and friends to join in.

Picnic ideas can be downloaded from the Travelling Light website at travellinglighttheatre.org.uk/ support-us/campaigns/yes-letsappeal.

n ADVERTISING FEATURE

Join us for our community fun An introduction to lucid dreaming You will learn how to use lucid Do you know what a lucid dream dreaming to support physical, is? It’s a dream where the dreamer day and see what we offer emotional and psychological knows they’re dreaming, usually Windmill Hill Community Centre is opening its doors to the public in September for a community fun day.

Residents will be able to enjoy a whole host of activities on September 21, while the centre, in Vivian Street, showcases what it has to offer the local community.

There will be music by local bands, taster sessions hosted by organisations that use the centre, and food and refreshments from Stuffed, the Victoria Park food van.

The Windmill Hill Community Association, the charity which owns the longstanding centre, will also be engaging with residents about how the facility can best accommodate the local community.

The association purchased the centre 19 years ago, after renting the former church hall at

a minimal rate.

It is now used for classes, as well as family celebrations and birthday parties.

A membership scheme is also available, where members can take advantage of the centre’s bar, enjoy monthly quiz and music nights, and reduced venue hire.

The community fun day is from 2pm onwards. For more information about the centre, visit: www.whca.org.uk.

triggered by an ‘aha - this is a dream!’ moment.

Join Rosanne Jacks for an informative one-day workshop where she will teach you the benefits of lucid dreaming, techniques to remember your dreams and techniques to get lucid (to trigger those ‘aha’ moments from within the dream).

healing to enhance your waking life.

For the full programme and to book your tickets, which are £80 each and includes a vegetarian lunch, visit eventbrite.co.uk and search ‘Lucid dreaming workshop’ in Bristol.

For date and location, see advert below.

One-day workshop

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Saturday, 14 September 2019 10am – 4pm Multifaith Chaplaincy University of Bristol 1 Woodland Road, Bristol

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

August 2019

southbristolvoice

20

ADVICE FROM A PHARMACIST

Y

ou may have seen on social media or heard through the grapevine that we have won a few big awards this month!

The first was the ‘GP Pharmacist of the Year 2019’ award, as part of the Primary Care Pharmacy Association Awards, and the most recent was for ‘Excellence in Primary Care’ as part of the NHS Parliamentary Awards.

We were nominated for the latter award by our local MP Karin Smyth. The regional judges crowned us South West Champions, thereby shortlisting us alongside around 600 nominations for the national award.

We were very excited to attend the ceremony in Parliament on July 10 – and were delighted when we were announced as the joint winners of the award.

Karin’s reason for nominating us was because of our work tackling health inequalities in South Bristol by supporting community efforts and running health education campaigns, including helping to improve access to communitybased healthcare.

Our MP said: “Ade is known for his commitment to providing excellent, person-centred primary care. Ade volunteers extensively outside his portfolio roles in community pharmacy and GP practice.

“Ade supports academic research and writes in publications for health professionals and the public. He is a conference speaker and works not just to broaden and share knowledge locally but increasingly internationally.

His work now forms part of case studies used by national and local organisation. He has provided case studies to the Royal Pharmaceutical Society for his work across many areas. He showcases the difference that community pharmacy can make.”

The Bedminster Pharmacy team are pleased that our innovative delivery of exceptional personalised care reminds everyone that community pharmacy has a unique role in the NHS family.

It hopefully also proves that when communities and clinicians

with Ade Williams Ade Williams of Bedminster Pharmacy shows how pharmacies can help people with a variety of health conditions, and ease pressure on the NHS work together, irrevocable improvements occur. This is certainly the South Bristol way.

We also had Public Health England designate our work delivered through the Bristol

Travel Clinic as the first pharmacy example of its ‘Vaccine Heroes accolade’ This is because of the inclusive and proactive way we are broadening access to vaccines by educating our community.

Our vision is to protect and care for this community we so cherish. We may now be the most commended pharmacy team in the UK, 30 awards in three years, but it is always your trust and confidence in us and our services that matters.

Saturday 20 July – Sunday 1 September Catch Bristol’s greatest show as The Invisible Circus take over Brunel’s famous ship, with amazing acrobatics and jaw-dropping feats.

Plan your day and save on tickets at ssgreatbritain.org/summer Supported by:

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

August 2019

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21

n SCHOOL NEWS

A year to remember as results soar at Luckwell Primary Luckwell Primary is ending the academic year on a high as the school sees test results rocket for children of all ages. It has also won a number of awards.

Headteacher Stuart McClelland attributes the success of his first year in charge at Luckwell to “a real team effort”.

“Everyone - children, parents, governors, staff - across the whole school has pulled together,” he said. “Luckwell is a lovely school with wonderful children. We are moving the school to where it deserves to be - a thriving little community at the heart of its community.”

The 2019 national SATs results have yet to be verified but provisional figures at Luckwell show a marked improvement, with pupils from age six to 11 now doing better than the average across the country. The school’s figure for the number of Year 6 children achieving at least

the expected standard for their age in reading, writing and maths is 79 per cent, up 26 percentage points.

One of Luckwell’s strengths is that, as a small school on a single site, it can support every child as an individual.

“We give them the opportunity to experience many different things and to excel in areas where they have a real interest,” Mr McClelland said.

Pupils excel in sports activities and the annual dance week is always a triumph.

Luckwell is the proud Key Stage 2 winner of the 2019 Bristol Reading Project. Choral speaking has been introduced successfully in the last year and the school has plans to focus even more on art and creativity in future as it pursues its enquiry-led curriculum.

The school has also maintained its reputation as

Headteacher Stuart McClelland with some of the wonderful children at Luckwell Primary a leader in personal finance education with another successful Luckwell Town activity week this year.

Luckwell’s on-site forest school provision for all year groups is popular with families, while another attraction is

Monty, the school dog.

“This is a great place for children to come to school,” said Mr McClelland.

Luckwell has places available in all year groups. To arrange a tour, please call 0117 353 3382.

BEDMINSTER DOWN SCHOOL

Belief Determination Success

Will your child be starting secondary school in September 2020?

Visit us and meet students and teachers on: • Wednesday 25th September 6pm - 8pm • Thursday 3rd October 10am – 12pm Visit bedminsterdown.com or t: 0117 353 2800 BEDMINSTER DOWN SCHOOL DONALD ROAD BEDMINSTER BS13 7DQ

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Thursday 19th September 2019 6pm-8.30pm Tel: 0117 377 2777 Email: mail@ashtonpark.net Web: www.ashtonpark.net

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

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22

n SCHOOL NEWS

August 2019

School sails through first Ofsted inspection

Learning about money matters

Bristol’s only school for children with a primary diagnosis of Autism is on track to become “a beacon of excellence” after receiving its first Good with Outstanding features Ofsted rating.

It is the first inspection Venturers’ Academy, in Withywood, has received after launching in 2016.

The inspector, who visited the school June 11-12, reported that “pupils thrive in an environment where they are nurtured and cared for”, and that they “make considerable progress, often from extremely low starting points”.

The ‘curiosity curriculum’ was praised for enabling pupils to explore interesting topics and the inspector noted that pupils understand democracy, respect and equality as well as the importance to eradicate radicalisation and terrorism.

As part of the My Money Week schools initiative, Luckwell Primary School turned itself into a fictional town.

The staff set up various workplaces, including a cafe, hairdresser, relaxation centre and games arcade, and the children chose where they would like to work for the week.

They earned pretend money for every shift they worked, paid 20 percent tax and there was also a school bank for them to save their ‘money’.

The week culminated in children being able to go around the ‘town’ to spend their hardearned cash.

This year, as part of the event, the school launched a newspaper where some worked as journalists and photographers, reporting on the week’s activities.

Luckwell Town is an annual event which aims to introduce children to financial matters.

The inspector reported that there is access to an exciting and diverse range of enrichment activities. The Wettest Classroom was given as a prime example, with the inspector noting that “the school’s motto, ‘where everything’s possible’ is tangible throughout the school”.

Attendance at Venturers’ Academy is consistently above the national average and pupils’ behaviour was described as outstanding, with good

Venturers' Academy pupils, Ainsley, Jacob and Lakhile, at sea

behaviour inspired by staff who “model kindness, consideration and courtesy”.

Staff were also praised for “understanding pupils’ needs exceptionally well and managing their complex needs with expertise”.

The academy’s leadership team received glowing praise, with governors and trustees described as “effective” and “accurately aware of the school’s strengths and weaknesses”.

Life changing Reception Open Morning Tuesday 24 September 9.30am–11.30am Call Hollie Matthews on 0117 933 9885 To advertise, contact sales@southbristolvoice.co.uk or Ruth on 07590 527664

August 2019

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23

n SCHOOL NEWS

Teaching assistant at Oasis Academy Marksbury Road, Ruby Gardiner, with her Stages dancers

Cool! Ruby is inspiring the next generation of dancers During the day, teaching assistant Ruby Gardiner can be found supporting children with their learning at Oasis Academy Marksbury Road in Bedminster.

But out of school, Ruby has a whole different talent – hip hop dancing.

The 23-year-old is so good at it, that her and her team have just scooped gold at the World Hip Hop Championships in Florida.

Ruby Gardiner – of Dark Angels Dancing Academy in Bishopsworth – was part of a 15-strong dance group which fought off fierce competition from the USA, Mexico, Chile, Japan, Philippines, Wales, Norway and Scotland.

The winning routine was just 2 minutes and 15 seconds long but the team rehearsed for over a

year with three training sessions a week.

And now Ruby is inspiring the next generation of dancers at the Marksbury Road primary academy.

Ruby choreographed and taught a group of 6- to 8-yearolds a hip hop routine, which they performed at Stages 2019.

Speaking about her student dancers, Ruby said: “The children were awesome and worked so hard on their routine.

They made us all very proud.”

Commenting on winning gold in Florida, Ruby said: “Being part of the team crowned World Hip Hop Champions is just amazing.

We all worked so hard to prepare for the tournament and we’re thrilled we came home with gold.

“I’ve been dancing since I was 4-years-old - it’s definitely my

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passion! I love teaching children at Oasis Academy Marksbury Road some of what I’ve learnt over the years.”

Clare Robinson, Principal of Oasis Academy Marksbury Road, said: “We are extremely

proud of Ruby and her team for winning gold at the World Hip Hop Championships. It’s great to have a role model like Ruby to show the children that with hard work and determination you can achieve great things.”

Luckwell Primary School A small school with big ideas

• Caring community • Huge improvement in test results

• On-site forest school • Breakfast and after-school clubs

See for yourself!

Tours: Sep 10, 11, 12, 17, 18, 19, 9.30am (or call us to arrange your own visit) Luckwell Primary School, Breach Road, Bristol BS3 3ET t: 0117 353 3382 e: luckwellp@bristol-schools.uk w:http://www.luckwell.bristol.sch.uk

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

August 2019

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August 2019

southbristolvoice

n THE CITY PAGE

25

BRISTOL CITY ROUND-UP

Memories of cup glory against the legends of the 70s In MARTIN POWELL’S preview of the 2019/20 season, he believes that the very first game - against Leeds United - could be a pointer to the next 10 months

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hampionship football returns to Ashton Gate on Sunday, August 4 and it couldn’t be a more exciting start to the season.

The fixture list sees Leeds United as the first opponents for the newly chirpily-liveried “Robins”. I’m not alone in thinking that Leeds are going to be near the top of the table come next May, so the opening day result will surely be a good indication of how City might fare this time out.

I must confess that a trip to Elland Road in 1974 to see Donnie Gillies score the only goal of the game to silence over 47,000 fans and knock Leeds out of the FA Cup was the catalyst for me to move from being a casual football supporter to a City fan.

That was Don Revie’s Leeds with names such as Lorimer, Hunter, Bremner, Cooper, Clarke, Giles and Madeley lining up against City’s second tier side.

But like today’s City team they had ambitious eyes on the top flight and were soon to realise that ambition. The incredible win against a side that had gone 29 games unbeaten sent shockwaves around the country.

Pre-season bonding in Florida with the settling in of new faces Sammie Szmodics, Tommy Rowe, Daniel Bentley and Rene Gilmartin will end with a jolt on that early Sunday in August.

A win will get the fans right behind the team and propel City through the early season. They have to be fully prepared for that fixture.

In fact, August is a month of tough opponents and if City are in the top six when September comes around you will have to fancy them for a play-off place at least.

Of course, the big excitement of the summer has been securing former Chelsea loanees Jay Dasilva and Tomas Kalas as permanent City players. A great move, showing the club’s ambition, but supporters must also realise that the move only secures the status quo of last season, when City weren’t quite good enough to trouble the top six spots.

As I write this there has been no news of a new striker to supplement those already at the club, although lots of rumours have been circulating.

There is also some uncertainty over whether Adam Webster, the pick of the defence last year, will stay at the club or whether he will be lured away by big money from the Premier League.

There is still likely to be some transfer window activity at City in the next few weeks and that could make a huge difference to the strength in depth of the squad through those vital August fixtures and beyond.

Enthusiasm for football is back and although the stadium was rocking to Rod Stewart, Muse, Take That and the Spice Girls over recent weeks there is nothing quite like the roar (and constant moaning) of the City faithful to get the spine tingling.

Tomas Kalas... the permanent signing of the former Clesea loanee demonstrates City’s ambition. Below, new face Sammie Szmodics PHOTOS: JMPUK/BCFC

At the moment we look forward with a spirit of optimism to a season in the Championship – one of the most competitive

leagues in the world with one of the biggest prizes to be won at the end of it – Premier League status.

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

August 2019

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26

n YOUR COUNCILLORS Southville

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ou can help Bristol become a sustainable food city.

‘Going for Gold’ is a city wide Charlie initiative to get Bolton Bristol to become a Green ‘gold-standard’ Southville sustainable food city.

Everyone – YES THAT MEANS YOU – can get involved.

And frankly, we all need to.

Food is not only a fundamental part of our lives, it is also a huge part of what shapes the environment – and is therefore either a huge threat or opportunity – depending on how it is done.

As the ‘Going for Gold’ website says: “Bristol is Going for Gold to give individuals and organisations of any kind across the city a platform to make big and lasting changes to our food system, and bring about positive changes for our communities, our environment and our workplaces.”

So if you’d like to help, then sign up.

The website www. goingforgoldbristol.co.uk/ individual-area/buying-better/ suggests actions you can take.

These range from ‘Ditch the packaging’ ie ditching unnecessary single use plastics, ‘Buy local and shop the seasons’, cut the amount of food you waste, help fundraise for a local food charity, ‘Eat more veg’, ‘Carry a reusable water bottle’ and loads more.

None of these are rocket science.

We’ve all known this for some time now.

Here is a banner which allows us all to contribute, and also for us all work for recognition for the city, but also to help improve our environment (or at least slow its rate of degradation!).

So – please, please, please – sign up for ‘Going for Gold’ and take action.

“Food is not only a fundamental part of our lives, it is also a huge part of what shapes the environment.”

How to contact your councillor: p2

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am pleased to see that a lot of work is being done to try and revive East Street’s fortunes by various groups. In Stephen particular, the Clarke Business Green Improvement Southville District staff have been working with Purcell Architects on a plan for a way to improve things. Some of the main points coming out of their conversations with local people included: • Keeping it useful for local residents while encouraging smaller independent businesses (like Cargo at Wapping Wharf ), • Widening pavements to have markets, • Extending opening hours and creating play spaces, • More community hubs and pocket parks, • More trees and street art.

Personally, I think that as well as these the main priorities should be to increase connectivity, prioritise

pedestrians and make the area feel safer. The way nearby North Street is thriving shows that high streets can still be prosperous.

Parking at edge of current parking zones Still no progress (or even the courtesy of a proper response), from our Mayor or cabinet concerning my increasingly desperate queries about the problems caused by the overflow from Southville’s Resident’s Parking Zone. Surely the 82% of local people who asked for help in the recent survey by rateBS3 deserve some action…

Clean Air Plan I was pleased to see that the Mayor is consulting on the options to try and deal with the toxic air emergency in Bristol (causing 300 plus early deaths per year). By the time the council actually takes action, however, it will be at least a year overdue and it won’t have even reduced air quality to legal levels by 2021. In other words; too little, too late.

n NEWS

Report marks ‘crucial step forward’ in improving trailer safety The parents of a young boy who was tragically killed by a runaway trailer in Bedminster has welcomed the release of an important report into trailer safety.

Donna and Scott Hussey – the parents of three-year-old Freddie who died in 2014 – have been campaigning alongside Bristol South MP Karin Smyth for action to be taken in Parliament to address issues with ill-fitted and faulty trailers and for motorists to be more aware of the dangers.

The 65-page report highlights key data on trailer safety, reviews existing laws and guidelines around trailers and explores ways to improve standards.

The report’s author Michael Ellis MP, the Minister of State for the Department of Transport, thanked the Hussey family and Karin for their role in improving trailer safety.

Karin said: “No family should have to go through what Freddie’s family has. We’ve seen some significant progress this

year and I’m really pleased that the government now recognises the importance of improving trailer safety.

“This report marks another crucial step in protecting families in Bristol South and across the country from further harm by defective trailers.”

Until now, there has been a lack of data showing the full extent of the problem but following Karin’s intervention to secure an amendment to the Haulage Permits and Trailer Registration Act 2018, the government pledged to gather

this information.

Data gathered from 2017 showed that there were 20 collisions involving trailers which resulted in injury or death and which were a result of a vehicle defect; something which would’ve been identifiable if present at testing.

Hundreds of spot checks were also carried out by the Driver Vehicle and Standards Agency (DVSA) to help inform the report – and this revealed that half of all medium sized trailers did not comply with basic safety standards. Karin said: “As soon as we started looking into trailer safety, it became clear that the Husseys weren’t the only family to

Karin Smyth chairing at the Parliamentary Group (APPG) on Trailer and Towing in April

have lost a loved one due to faulty trailers.

“The report estimates 1.4 million trailers are in use in the UK – if 50 percent of these are defective, that poses a huge risk to road users. We need action to address this before another family has to suffer.”

Donna Hussey said: “I did not realise before it happened, but afterwards I started to look into it and saw that there were 2-3 incidents a week.

“We realised then that it was a big problem. In our case, if that trailer had been serviced they would’ve known that hitch was not secured correctly.

“Had the driver recognised there was a problem, he might not have gone out that day.

People need to know that going out without the correct safety checks, you’re taking a big risk.”

The full report can be read at: www.gov.uk/government/ publications/trailer-safety-report

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

August 2019

southbristolvoice

n YOUR COUNCILLORS Bedminster

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true Bedminster legend passed away in late June. Father Jack House was a well-known Mark and much-loved Bradshaw local champion Labour instrumental in Bedminster teaching so many people across the area, many of whom now have children or grandchildren of their own.

His Church Ministry across Bristol was extensive and farreaching. Hearing of Father Jack’s passing was sad news for me at a personal level given his enduring support and encouragement since my early days as a councillor candidate in 2005 and during my four terms representing Bedminster on the council.

Jack’s politics were well-known, staunch Labour, with compassion and understanding about daily life and its challenges. Both Celia and I send our sincere condolences to Rosemary and all the family. There is a service of thanksgiving at St

27

Francis Church, Ashton Gate on 28th July starting at 6.30pm.

Many will recall the new road and pavement layout in Victor Road, off West St, which provides a safer direct route to South St Park with the pedestrian crossing over West Street. Trees were planted as part of this project – these have now been ripped out. We want the council to replace them and explain who did this. Bedminster is in dire need of more street trees and we can’t afford to lose the comparatively few we have.

I’m pleased to see consultation at last about measures to combat toxic air in Bristol. Parts of Bedminster have some of the worst air quality in the city. I remember being told the alarming facts about the health impacts when I cochaired the mayoral task group on air quality, until it was disbanded in 2017. Over 300 people die prematurely in Bristol each year due to the effects of toxic air. Please have your say by 12th August at: https://bristol.citizenspace.com/ growth-regeneration/traffic-cleanair-zone/

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How to contact your councillor: p2

ast month we raised a cross party question with the Mayor at Full Council, requesting a Celia response to the Phipps independent survey Labour carried out by Bedminster RateBS3.

You can see the survey in full on www.ratebs3.com/parking.

This followed a meeting with Kye Dudd, cabinet Member, on 4th April, when a speedy response was promised. At the time of writing, it is before Full council so I hope we can report more next month. Road safety and parking continues to be a major issue for us, confirmed by the high response rate to the survey which we feel provides sufficient evidence for action. The request for CIL funding to improve road safety in the area around Luckwell School has progressed to the second phase and officers are currently looking at what a scheme would provide, before a final decision is made in September.

In addition, the long-awaited scheme for the upgrade of the three traffic island road crossings on Duckmoor Road are now being planned. These were agreed in the days of the Greater Bedminster Community Partnership. All should contribute to increased safety in this area.

There is still time to complete the consultation on Traffic Clean Air Zone options, as it closes on Monday August 12th. The Council is consulting on two options to control the effects of vehicle pollution in Bristol and Bedminster ward is included within the Option 1 Zone Boundary.

This option places a charge on the non-compliant, older more polluting vehicles, but does not charge privately owned vehicles. In response to the Climate Emergency declaration made in Nov 18, we have committed to a new target for the council’s direct emissions to be carbon neutral by 2025.

Drop in to see us on the first Saturday each month, back at Mezzaluna on West St, between 11-12pm.

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

August 2019

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28

For serious sudoku fans

Each 3x3 box, every row and every column must contain the numbers 1-9, with each used only once. Can you crack it?

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This Animals Thismonth: month: The HumanCities Body This month: Capital

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For younger readers HOW MANY ICE CREAMS?

1 Sri Lanka 6 New Zealand 2 England 7 Pakistan 3HOW West Indies 8 Australia MANY ICE CREAMS? 4 Bangladesh 9 India Cones: Six 5 South Africa 10 Afghanistan Lollies: Five

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August 2019

n HISTORY

southbristolvoice

29

THREE BEDMINSTERS, PART 1

Bedminster, USA

BEDMINSTER – the pride of South Bristol. An ancient place, inhabited by the Romans, mentioned in the Domesday Book, it has been a market town, a coal mining centre and the hub of Bristol’s tobacco industry. But there are two other Bedminsters, both in the US. One, it is true, is more famous than the other, owing to its connections to a certain US political figure. Strangely, they aren’t that far from each other – one in Pennsylvania, and one in New Jersey, with less than 40 miles between them. The three Bedminsters show some sharp contrasts, but they also have a lot in common. The story of the two US locations is rooted in the deepest divisions in English society. As we shall see, the Bedminsters have played a crucial role in not one but two revolutionary wars on both sides of the Atlantic. And we’ll find out what unites – and divides – them today. Paul Breeden writes.

Bedminster, New Jersey

Bedminster, Pennsylvania

Google

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S BRISTOL LIVE noted recently, to older Bristolians, being told that something was a “bit Bemmie” was an insult – a reference to something sub-standard. The implication was that anything from south of the river was inferior to people or things from the more fashionable northern side.

It sounds like a lot of nonsense to South Bristolians these days, when house prices are often on a par with the posh side of town, and Southville has followed Totterdown into the Sunday Times list of the best places to live in the UK. But this anti-Bemmie

prejudice actually points to a historical divide which may well explain why the Bedminsters of the US came to exist in the first place.

Unfortunately, there is no record of any definite personal links between the Bedminster which in the 18th century was a market town in Somerset, and the two townships which took its name in the US. What is generally accepted is that Bedminster PA and Bedminster NJ were both named after their ancient namesake.

And with good reason. For centuries, Bedminster – a market town as important as Glastonbury or Frome – had

BEDMINSTER ... WHAT DOES IT MEAN? The name Bedminster contains the ancient British word ‘beydd’ for baptism, and ‘minster’ for an important church or religious establishment. It’s thought Christians were baptised in the fast-flowing River Malago – hard to imagine now, but there were once three water mills. One was just off East Street, near Mill Lane.

rivalled its near neighbour, Bristol. True, the city had the status – the castle, the harbour, the homes and warehouses of rich merchants who traded with Ireland, Europe and the New World.

In Bristol and in London, civic affairs were governed by a tight-knit circle of politicians and merchants, anxious to uphold civil order, and the rights to profitable foreign trade – often in monopolies handed out by royal command. Part of this rigid system of social control was the Church of England – the nation’s church, with the monarch as its leader. Anyone who wanted to worship God in a different way was liable to be burned at the stake in the 16th and 17th centuries. By the 18th, dissent was sometimes tolerated – but still the Church, and the rich elite which supported it, had a stranglehold over civic life.

Bedminster was more than a little like South London. It was

on the south side of the river, outside the city walls. In London, the South Bank was where Shakespeare built his theatre, away from city laws. It was also where Londoners came to visit prostitutes.

Bedminster too was outside the city walls and much less under the influence of the Church. So it became an attractive place to live when, in the 17th and 18th centuries, being a nonconformist – which simply meant that you disagreed with the Church of England’s rules about worship – became more popular and less likely to lead to a death sentence.

Central to this movement was William Penn. He was the son of Admiral William Penn, who was born in Redcliffe. He was the commander of Cromwell’s fleet, but he was hardly a staunch republican – he later supported the return of Charles II to the Continued overleaf

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

30

August 2019

southbristolvoice

n HISTORY THREE BEDMINSTERS, PART 1

Continued from pg. 29 English throne.

Admiral Penn kept well in with the King, partly by lending him lots of money.

His ornate memorial is in St Mary Redcliffe.

The admiral’s son, also William, was more of a rebel.

Born in 1644, by the age of 22 he was in Ireland, looking after his father’s estates which had been confiscated from Royalists during the Civil War. He had already been kicked out of Oxford University for dabbling in nonWilliam Penn: Principled utopian or calculating conformism. capitalist? William Penn persuaded fellow Quakers to In Ireland buy his land in Pennsylvania, but didn’t mind the new he had his first community using slaves both black and white. His encounter with statue in Millennium Square, Bristol, makes no mention the Quakers of his slaving past.

– a meeting that was to have huge rituals or even priests, and consequences not only for Penn women could speak during but for the foundation of the New worship. They wouldn’t make World across the Atlantic. oaths, they wouldn’t make war, and they dropped all titles of urope was already riven honour like Lord and Lady. As by religious conflict in a result, in Bristol the many the 1660s. The Protestant Quakers were forbidden from churches of England, Germany doing business in the port, and and other states had rejected even barred from their own the rigid Roman Catholic rule meeting rooms at Quaker’s of the Popes for more than a Friars. As a consequence they century. But once people got had to hod their meetings outside the idea there was more than the city, in Knowle, Brislington one way to worship, the cat was and no doubt in Bedminster. out of the bag. The English Civil Penn, along with thousands War was fought over rival forms of others, was imprisoned several of Protestantism, mainly over times, one in the Tower of whether the king was appointed London.

by God as the nation’s spiritual And yet. William Penn was leader. But even Cromwell no revolutionary. He was a very thought worshippers needed rich man. He was one of a new some kind of leadership. So class of Quakers who made less when the Quakers started talking noise so they could make more about the spirit of God speaking money out of business. They through every individual – even traded commodities like food women – the idea seemed almost and manufactured goods like impossibly radical. glass and iron.

At first, the name ‘quaker’ was The Quakers and the other an insult hurled by opponents, non-conformists were drawn a jibe at the new worshippers to Bedminster. They were the because they were thought to nouveau riche, often in conflict shake as they felt contact with with the most powerful men in the word of God. But the Quakers Bristol, the Merchant Venturers, bore their new name with pride. who had made fortunes from Quakers didn’t have rigid

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their expeditions to the New World. The most famous, Edward Colston, was so staunchly Anglican that when he founded his school he would only admit Church of England pupils.

But ironically Colston, who is now well-known as one of England’s most enthusiastic slave traders, did the up-andcoming Quaker capitalists one big favour. He used bribery to help end London’s monopoly on the slave trade. This allowed Bristol merchants to take advantage of the slave trade too. Now not only could wealthy Quakers like Penn send manufactured goods in vast quantities to the American colonies: they could also send them slaves.

T

oday’s Quakers would shudder at the notion that they ever endorsed slavery. And while the movement had started with the revelation that all men were created equal, it also produced a capitalist elite led by men like William Penn.

He saw the wide open lands of America as the place to build a new, prosperous and free community, where people were free to believe and say what they wanted.

“I would not come to abuse God’s love …nor defile what came to me clean,” he wrote. But as with so many of the idealistic American settlers, his idea of freedom was mainly freedom to live as he wanted. The idea that in the new land people would be free to be atheists, or worship gods other than the Christian one, wasn’t what he had in mind.

Penn’s father, the admiral, had loaned Charles II £16,000 (a

fortune worth £70 million or so today). Penn junior called in that debt in 1681, accepting from the King 40,000 square miles which he named Pennsylvania, after his father.

He had already drafted a charter for the neighbouring territory of New Jersey, which was used by 200 settlers when they arrived in 1687. Now Penn expanded his efforts, recruiting Quakers and other dissenters from all over northern Europe to people this new promised land.

Penn visited Bristol many times, clearly feeling a special bond with the city’s Quakers.

Scores heeded his call to emigrate. Among them was Henry Comly, born in 1615 in Bedminster and a weaver by trade. He had four children with his first wife, Judith Clarke, who died in 1670. He married a fellow Quaker, Joan Tyler, in 1673, and they had a son, Henry.

On July 10, 1681, shortly after Penn had been granted control of the new land of Pennsylvania, Comly senior bought 500 acres in an area called Penn’s Woods.

The next year Henry and Judith moved there, taking Henry junior and Mary, a daughter from his first marriage.

I

t’s not known what price Comly paid for his land, but Penn’s usual fee was 40 shillings per 100 acres – £2 (around £7,000 at today’s values). That equates to less than 5d (2.5p) per acre. To rent an acre of farmland in England would cost four shillings (20p) a year – so land in Pennsylvania was a bargain.

However, as in today’s world, there was one rule for the rich and another for the poor. Huge parcels of land went to wealthy

Bedminster UK*

Description Former market town and mining area, now city suburb Area 2.84 sq miles (BS3 postcode) Landmarks Ashton Gate football & rugby stadium, Tobacco Factory theatre, Ashton Court estate Population 24,800* Representatives: Local 2 Labour, 2 Green councillors on Bristol City Council National Karin Smyth MP, Labour Average earnings £28,000* (2018) Diversity Bedminster 88.3% white, 6% black & minority ethnic Southville 81.9% white, 9.5% black & minority ethnic (2011 census) Famous residents Billy Butlin, singer Dame Clara Butt, Russ Conway, children’s TV star Andy Day * Figures for Bedminster and Southville wards combined

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August 2019

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n HISTORY settlers who would require stately homes as part of the bargain.

Watson’s Annals of Pennsylvania for 1685 records: “The Penn family receive £40 of the bearer of a lady in England that intends to go over soon with her family; and many considerable persons are likely to follow. She has bought 5,500 acres, and her first 300 must be chosen on the river… She wants a house of brick, like Hannah Psalter’s in Burlington, and she will give £40 in money, and as much more in goods. It must have four rooms below, about 36 feet by 18 feet large [and] … nine feet high …”

The Comly family, though, were among thousands who had to clear their land and build their own houses before they could have any notion of a settled life. They sometimes faced the not-unreasonable opposition of Native Americans as well as disease and a harsh winter climate. The Comlys had a trade

and probably some savings; others were reduced to living in caves. All had to pay rent to Penn, who lived in an enormous mansion at Pennsbury, on the Delaware River.

We don’t know the reason, but two years after his arrival, Henry Comly fell ill. He died in March 1684.

What can we say about the decision to name two of the new townships in Penn’s new lands after Bedminster, Somerset?

Little, with certainty. We can trace the emigration of the Comly family from the original Bedminster. There were probably many more families from the south side of Bristol who did the same thing but haven’t been identified. What is interesting is that Henry Comly senior died in Warminster, just 18 miles from where Bedminster Township, PA, would be founded in 1741. It’s also only 45 miles from where the other Bedminster Township in New Jersey would be settled

in 1710.

Curiously, the first settlers of the NJ Bedminster were reckoned to be Dutch and German, followed by Scots-Irish.

The same mix of immigrants was to be found across Penn’s territory. The place names found there reflect this heritage – Schuykill, Fogelsville and Edinburgh, for example. But it’s striking how many names there are from the vicinity of Bristol – particularly the countryside, where non-conformism spread more readily. Near Bedminster NJ are Tewksbury (from Tewkesbury, Glos); Bridgewater (Bridgwater, Somerset) and Somerset (a district of Franklin Township, as well as the name of the NJ county which contains Bedminster Township).

Near the Pennsylvania Bedminster we find Warminster (Wiltshire), Kingwood (reminiscent of Kingswood, Bristol?) and, on the Delaware River, the port of Bristol, founded by a Samuel Clift from Nailsworth, Glos.

The Comly family, like so many others, spread out across

the new land. Henry Comly junior had nine children. He died in Montgomery, PA, 136 miles from Bedminster, but many of his children stayed within 25 miles of Bedminster in places like Abington, Southampton and Buckingham. Did they talk of the place almost 3,400 miles away their father and grandparents had lived?

Someone must have remembered, because the New Jersey Bedminster was occupied in 1710, and the Pennsylvania one in 1741. In Pennsylvania, 35 residents, mainly Irish and German, petitioned the Court of Quarter Sessions to name the new township. The land was surveyed by John Chapman – who is said to be the one who named it after its Somerset forebear, though we can’t definitely link him to Bristol.

In New Jersey, the citizens eventually petitioned King George II himself to grant their rights of township. How did they prosper? What did the Bedminsters become?

We’ll find out next month.

Will Writing & Estate Planning Trump National: Donald Trump spends so much time at his golf resort and country club in Bedminster NJ that the US press calls it the Summer White House. Daughter Ivanka Trump and her husband are said to use one of 11 cottages on the estate. Trump is said to save almost $80,000 a year in taxes by keeping eight goats on the property, as well as another nearby golf course, to qualify for a farmland tax break.

Bedminster NJ

Description Small town and ultra-wealthy suburb 40 miles New York Area 26 sq miles Landmarks Trump National golf course, Vanderveer-Knox House and Pluckemin Artillery Cantonment, two sites from the Revolutionary War, 1775-83 Population 8,217 (2016) Representatives: Local: 5 Republicans on Township Committee National: Senate Democrats Cory Booker and Bob Menendez Congress Democrat Tom Malinowski Presidential vote, 2016: Donald Trump (R) received 42 more votes than Hillary Clinton (D) (2,223 v. 2,181) Average income $66,422 (£52,669) (2010) Diversity 86.41% white, 2.06% Black or African American, 0.02% Native American, 8.68% Asian, 6.36% Hispanic or Latino (2010 census) Famous residents Donald Trump, John DeLorean, Mars heiress Jacqueline Mars

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32

n WHAT’S ON The Rising Sun live listings - August Windmill Hill, BS3 4LU Fri, 2: Shanghai Shuffle • Sat, 3: Howlin Wolves • Sun, 4: Lewis Creaven and Patrick Farrell • Sat, 10: Trip for Biscuits • Sun, 11: Harry Johnston • Fri, 16: Sam Pennant & The Callous Lips • Sat, 17: Le Coucher De Soliel (DJ set in garden) • Sun, 18: Max Harrison • Fri, 23: Bandaoke • Sat, 24: Beyond Rivers • Sun, 25: Leo James • Fri, 30: Full Force & Power. Live music on Fri or Sat starts at 9pm and 4pm on Sun. Regular events: Every Thurs, 8.30pm: Open mic with Al Green (free drink for performers) 1st and 3rd Tues, 7pm: Jive Bristol (free jive dance lessons) Last Tues, 8pm: Jame on the Hill (Bristol jam night).

For daytime events, follow The Rising Sun on Facebook

YOGA with Jo Hatha Yoga - 6-7pm - Centre for Whole Health Victoria Place BS3 3BP Hatha Yoga - 7-8pm - Windmill City Farm - Philip St, BS3 4EA

Vinyasa Flow - 10-11am - Urban Gym, St John’s Ln, BS3 5AA

Book at www.yoga-with-jo.co.uk or contact hello@yoga-with-jo. co.uk / 07808215224 Thursday August 1 n Qui Gong for 50+ on the first Thursday of every month at the Southville Centre, 10.1511.15am. Contact Ruth, BS3 Community, on 0117 9231039. n Farmcraft at Windmill Hill City Farm, 10am2.30pm. Leave computers at home and experience gaming themes outdoors, based around our farm! Book online via eventbrite.co.uk by searching ‘Farmcraft’. There is also a session on Tuesday, August 15, 10am-12pm. Tickets are £20 for the Aug 1 session and £10 for Aug 15 session, suitable for ages 6 to 10.

August 2019

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Tuesday August 13 n Friends of Bedminster Library is a new group looking for members. We’re meeting at 7pm in Bedminster library. Come and join us if you are interested in making the most of our local community space!

Friday August 23-25 n The Robins Summer Festival - enjoy a whole weekend of live music (Zero Hour, The Twerzels and DJ Stretch), dancing and mouthwatering BBQ grub, washed down with a selection of scrumpy boxed ciders (at only £3 a pint) and Pimms. For further info, visit ‘The Robins Summer Festival’ Facebook page.

Friday August 30 n Making Change Happen is run by and for disabled, older and chronically ill people in Bristol. Why not come along, have a hot drink on us and talk about what’s happening in your area. Last Friday of the month at the Gatehouse Centre Cafe, Hareclive Rd, Bristol BS13 9JN. 10.30am to 12.30pm.

Free taster/pay termly. Email folksandbairns@gmail.com or visit folksandbairns.com

(Audrey 07903821655). Choir, 7.30-9.30pm on Tues (Nickomo 01749850474).

n BS3 Repair Cafe Repairs for a donation plus cream teas and homemade cakes. 1.304.30pm, last Saturday of every month at the United Reformed Church Hall, West Street, Bedminster. Facebook: BS3 Repair Cafe

n Lunchtime Live every Friday at St Francis’ Church, Ashton Gate, 1.10-1.50pm.

Performances in a variety of genres. Tea and coffee available before each performance.

Free entry, retiring collection. lunchtimelive.co.uk

n Time to Move every Wednesday, seated and standing gentle exercises for older people with instructor Michelle Kusniere, 2-3.30pm at Knowle Methodist Church hall. Just £4.

Contact: 07981 756965 or email timetmove5@gmail.com n BS3 Community runs and hosts regular activities for those aged 50+ at the Southville Centre. Zumba Gold (chairbased), every fortnight on Weds 1.30-2.30 (Ruth 0117 9231039).

Yoga, 5.45-7.15pm every Mon (Caroline 07570507494).

Pilates, 6.30-7.30pm every Mon (Rose 07748735200). Learn French, 7.30-9.30pm on Tues

SOUTH BRISTOL Wellbeing Choir Windmill Hill Community Centre, Vivian Street, Windmill Hill Every Thursday 7-8.30pm

A relaxed, fun choir with no need to audition.

No subscription, just a suggested donation (£5).

FIRST SESSION FREE! Find us on southbristolwellbeingchoir

Regular events n Acting Out drama classes for everyone aged 4-11, every Monday, 4-5pm at Southville Centre. £5 per class. Contact us Jacqui, 07956 962 422 or Angela, 07823 773 179 for a free trial. actingoutdrama.com n The Wild of the Words every Tuesday in Aug, 10.3011.20am at The Rising Sun pub, 2-2.50pm at Redcatch Community Garden. Interactive storytelling sessions, age guidance 18 months to 8 years but all ages welcome. £3.50 per child. To book, visit our website thewildofthewords.co.uk or Facebook @thewildofthewords. n Baby Sensory is a learning development programme for babies 0-13 months. Classes at the Victoria Park Baptist Church Hall, Sylvia Avenue BS3 5DA on Tuesdays. For details email Sian at bristolsouth@babysensory. co.uk or visit babysensory.com/ bristol-south n Folks & Bairns parent and baby choir at the Milk Shed, Southville. Tuesday, 2.153.15pm and Wednesdat, 1-2pm.

THURS 29th, FRI 30th & SAT 31st AUGUST 2019 UNIVERSITY OF THE WEST OF ENGLAND EXHIBITION CENTRE, FILTON, BRISTOL BS34 8QZ

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August 2019

n WHAT’S ON It’s time these women were given a voice Review The Steampunk Mistress and The Time Machine by Show of Strength and Closer Each Day Company Just days before watching ‘The Steampunk Mistress and the Time Machine’, I went on a ‘Blood and Butchery’ walking tour of Bedminster with the show’s creative producer, Sheila Hannon of local theatre company Show of Strength. As we navigated East Street and North Street, hearing of Bemmy’s dark and grisly history, I knew I was going to be in for a treat on June 30 – the opening night of the steampunk performance.

Cleverly set against a backdrop of the ss Great Britain – a machine in its own right – dozens of us gathered on the museum’s ground

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floor to be greeted by H G Wells (Andrew Kelly), the mastermind … or so we thought … behind the prophetic sci-fi novella The Time Machine.

The performance – a collaboration between Show of Strength and Closer Each Day Company – wasn’t so much an enactment of the story, but an insight into the acclaimed author’s personal life. It is no secret that Mr Wells was an advocate of free love and within the first 15 minutes of the performance, he had abandoned his wife Isabel (Rachael Proctor-Lane), for his young, scientifically-minded student, Amy Robbins – later Jane Wells (Alice Lamb). What soon became apparent, was Jane’s influence over The Time Machine, inspiring ideas and concepts for the book.

Although, there was no denying Mr Wells’ genius.

As the show progressed, the audience separated into groups and journeyed throughout the ship, hearing each of the cast members’ stories. We saw Mr

Wells battling to finish his book in time, while the Time Traveller (John Lomas) leapt from the pages to take us on a journey through space and time. “Although we may master time, time will always be the master of us,” he said profoundly, as the ship’s engine cogs whirred in the background.

There were elements of comedy throughout, but the biggest laughs came when the Eloi and the Morlocks emerged – the post-human species found by the Time Traveller in year 802,701 AD. In a poignant scene in the ship’s dining saloon, Jane and her mother Mrs Robbins (Lynda Rooke) quarrelled over H G Well’s fidelity and how Jane was falling under the author’s shadow. This was then underpinned in the show’s final scene, back to where we started in the museum, when the women established that – like many of their female counterparts – they will just be consigned to the footnotes in history.

Overall, the show was insightful and interactive, and I loved how

HG Wells’ mistress, Jane with wife Isabel Show of Strength and Closer Each Day Company gave the main women in H G Wells’ life a voice.

I’m sure they would be thrilled to watch The Steampunk Mistress and the Time Machine and hear their stories remerging … now, if only there was a time machine.

Becky Day For details about Show of Strength and its shows and tours, visit showofstrength.org.uk

n ADVERTISING FEATURE 30 years of serving the community The City Farm Café has been part of the community for over 30 years and, being based at Windmill Hill City Farm, sustainability has always been part of its mission. It serves mostly organic and locally sourced food, including lots grown and reared on the farm itself, of course.

There aren’t many places where you can see armfuls of salad, tended and picked by volunteers, being delivered to the kitchen to be turned into colourful salads and brunch dishes.

They take recycling very seriously, but composting all their

peelings on site is just the start.

They also provide washable wet wipes for dirty hands and faces, and following their ban on single use coffee cups, have recently got rid of single-serve juice cartons too, saving hundreds of cartons and straws in the last month alone.

You can now refill a cup with delicious orange or apple juice instead. Their efforts have won them a Gold Award from the Sustainable Restaurant Association!

Plot to plate • Locally sourced Farm shop • family friendly Vegan options • Play area Events • Private hire www.cityfarmcafe.org.uk Windmill City Farm, Philip Street, Bedminster, BS3 4EA

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August 2019

n NEWS

The best from the East

A community celebration of everything that Bedminster has to offer

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

August 2019

There were smiles all round as families enjoyed all that was on offer at the East Street Summer Fayre.

Fun activities such as face painting, a bouncy castle, a lucky dip and arts and crafts kept children entertained, while food and drinks stalls set up by local traders kept the crowds fed and watered.

Staff from the St Peter’s Hospice charity shop (pictured, above) were also out on the high street celebrating their 30th birthday, and serving cake to mark

southbristolvoice

the special ocassion.

Live music played throughout the day, while the high street welcomed a constant flow of visitors.

The Bedminster Business Improvement District team were also unveiling plans for a future East Street (read more, pg. 10-11) and offering residents a chance to give their feedback on the illustrations.

For more photos of the East Street Fayre, visit southbristolvoice.co.uk.

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

35

August 2019

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n THOUGHT OF THE MONTH

E

with Beverley Chapman deacon at Victoria Park Baptist Church

xactly eighteen months after my husband unexpectedly died I was diagnosed as having breast cancer. News that no one wants to hear.

On telling friends and acquaintances I had responses ranging from ‘oooh, my husband’s aunt had that and she died’ or ‘chemo can be awful, poor you’ to ‘please let us know if there is anything we can do’.

All normal when hearing news Regular services

n St Aldhelm’s Church Chessel Street, Bedminster BS3 3TT hello@staldhelms.org Minister Rev Nick Hay 07534 249338 staldhelms.org Sunday 10am Morning service, informal with mix of traditional and contemporary songs. Creche, Sunday school, refreshments; House groups meet on Tuesday and Wednesday evenings, 7.30pm.

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

n St Paul’s Church 2 Southville Road, Southville BS3 1DG stpsouthville@gmail.com Rev Nick Hay 07534 249338 saintpaulschurch.co.uk

like that.

The one response that I heard several time was ‘why you, especially so soon after your husband’s death?’

Thinking about it, my response to that question is, why not me? Why should I be immune to pain and suffering whilst other people are suffering?

I did have dark days in the aftermath of both events but having a Christian faith I knew that I wasn’t going through either

on my own.

Jesus was walking with me every step of the way, and on more than one occasion, carrying me.

So I think it’s important to remember in our lives that whatever our beliefs are - we won’t ever be alone.

We just need to find the person we have to seek help from!

Sunday 10.30am Worship is a mix of contemporary and traditional with groups for children and young people.

Also: 1st Sunday 9am Traditional Communion Service; 2nd Sunday 7.30pm Praise and Prayer; 4th Sunday Sunday Sessions in Rope Walk pub.

n Victoria Park Baptist Church Sylvia Avenue BS3 5DA 0117 977 2484 victoriapark.org.uk Sunday 10.30am Service includes groups for all ages, and adults; coffee 11.30am; 2nd Sunday Parade service; 3rd Sunday Communion.

n St Francis Church 279 North Street, Ashton Gate BS3 1JP staldhelmsandstfrancis.org.uk Priest-in-charge Rev Andrew Doarks 0117 963 9121 Sunday 10am Communion or Morning Worship; 1st Saturday 10am Open church; Thursday 10am Eucharist.

n Salvation Army Dean Lane BS3 1BS Corps officer Ben Ellis 0117 966 4952 salvationarmy.org.uk/bristolbedminster Sunday 10.30am Morning Worship; 11.30am Kids Alive!; 5pm Evening Worship.

St Aldhelm’s Church Harvest Supper

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Sunday 22 September, 5pm - 7pm St Aldhelm’s Church, Chessell Street, BS3 3TT To register your interest, please email: hello@staldhelms.org

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n PLANNING APPLICATIONS Bedminster ward: Awaiting decision Bower Ashton Studios, Kennel Lodge Road, BS3 2JT Proposed 15 non-illuminated ‘Way Finding’ signs to be located throughout Bower Ashton Campus.

96 Swiss Drive, BS3 2RW Single storey rear extension.

Retention of detached building/ workshop to rear.

36 Risdale Road, BS3 2QT Proposed erection of new garage at rear of the property.

Bedminster ward: Decision 47 Langley Crescent, BS3 2RE Proposed garage extension with disabled access.

Granted subj to condition(s) 95 Smyth Road, BS3 2DR Demolition of existing single storey extension and erection of

07517 476 998

new single storey side and rear extension.

Granted subj to condition(s) 73 Avonleigh Road, BS3 3JA Loft conversion and rear dormer with the ridge line raised.

Granted subj to condition(s) 6-7 South Liberty Lane, BS3 2SG Erection of two storey side and rear extensions, roof extension, and alterations to fenestration to provide 4no dwellings made up of 2no houses and 2no apartments. Boundary wall to front of site, refuse and cycle stores.

Granted subj to condition(s) Southville ward: Awaiting decision 47 Exeter Road, BS3 1LY Proposed single storey side infill extension.

Land at rear of 70 & 72 North Street Demolition of existing structure

Bristol Self Storage Clift House Road, BS3 1RX Application for listed building consent - Replacement fire escape staircases to East and West elevations. Granted subject to condition(s)

and erection of new dwelling house.

278 North Street, BS3 1JU Loft conversion including extending front roof pitch to the rear, and new mansard style dormer to the rear.

16 Mill Lane, BS3 4DG Conversion of 2 derelict garages into 2 x I bed flats.

Flat 15A Dean Lane, BS3 1DB 1 bed detached mews cottage.

16 Southville Place, BS3 1AW Demolition of existing rear wall and replace with rolling garage shutter door to create off street parking space.

Southville ward: Decision 137 East Street, BS3 4EL Erection of new shopfront and layout of ground floor retail unit.

Granted subject to condition(s)

89 East Street, BS3 4EX Conversion and extension of upper floors of existing building to provide 3 no. flats Granted subject to condition(s) Regent House Lombard Street, BS3 1FT Permanent ‘Factory No. 1’ backlit individual letter signage and temporary 5-year advertisement consent for non-illuminated fascia sign at Regent House.

Granted subj to condition(s) • The status of these applications may have changed since we went to press. Check for updates at planningonline.bristol.gov.uk

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n YOUR MP

KARIN SMYTH

Homes for all

B

ristol’s need for more housing will see development across the constituency in the coming years and I welcome that.

However, we must make sure that developers are building the right homes, of the right tenure, in the right place to support sustainable communities. It is vital that residents are involved in these decisions.

The Bedminster Framework, as reported in the South Bristol Voice earlier this year, outlined some of the proposals for the area around East Street. I read these plans with interest, so was disappointed to see that a large proportion of the new homes planned for Malago Road, should planning permission be granted, will be student flats.

If a housing development is made up of student flats rather than much-needed homes for local residents, it presents a series of

problems. The transient nature of student communities means there can be little integration with the existing community.

Students arrive in the autumn and leave early summer the following year – being away for weeks at Christmas and Easter too. With both universities in the north of the city, rarely would students venture further into South Bristol. Chances are, they’ll use their Bedminster home as a base from which to cross the bridge and head north.

While some shops and cafes on East Street may benefit from the student pound, I fear that may be the extent of what Bristol South gets out of this. By building student housing, developers get out of the obligation to include ‘affordable’ housing in their plans. It’s affordable housing that we really need in Bristol South. And we mustn’t forget that students don’t have to pay council tax, which means less income for the council to deliver more services (bins, roads and parks etc).

What we need to focus on is building communities. Bristol City Council’s Urban Living Supplementary Planning Document outlines this and provides valuable guidance

– what we need to ensure is that developers are taking this into account. What Bristol South really needs is truly affordable homes for families of all shapes and sizes, shops, play space, green areas and, of course, the infrastructure needed to support these communities – schools, nurseries, GP surgeries and public transport.

Development at Bedminster Green will require improvements to transport links.

Windmill Hill already has transport challenges – with commuters using residential streets to bypass the congested main trunk roads. With more housing planned, we need more sustainable transport solutions.

We’re expecting to see more planning applications submitted later this year and I’ll be sharing details of the key ones on my social media channels. As with all planning applications, you’re entitled to have your say and I’d encourage you to do so via the council’s website or in writing to City Hall.

Twitter: @karinsmyth Facebook: KarinSmythMP Website: www.karinsmyth.com

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email motionmain@gmail.com

Would you like to promote your business in our trade section?

Call Ruth on 07590 527 664

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

August 2019

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

FITNESS

Griffin Electrical Established 1984

YOUR TRUSTED LOCAL ELECTRICIAN

• Rewiring • Minor alterations • Security Lighting & Alarms SPECIAL RATES FOR OAPS I work even cheaper if you supply the tea!

FURNITURE SPRAYING

Personal Training Want a plan that actually works? Wish to lose fat, feel strong & have more energy?

WEIGHT LOSS & MUSCLE

Théa Payne

RUNNING & EVENTS

07817 495008

ELECTRICIAN

50+ STAY ABLE

www.griffin-electrical.co.uk | john@griffin-electrical.co.uk

01275 832830 07831 534766 NICEIC Approved Contractor Member of Checkatrade.com

www.tpaynefitness.com GARDENING

GARDENING

LANDSCAPING & TREE SERVICES All Garden Works Undertaken All Foliage Removed – Roots Destroyed Patios Laid – Slabbing – Decking Block Paving – Graveling – Wood Chippings Fencing – All Clearance Jobs Undertaken General Building – Garden Walls etc Drives & Patios Jetwashed & Resealed

• FULLY INSURED • LICENSED WASTE CARRIER

For a FREE quote call 07960 681 921 d.attwellgardenservices@hotmail.co.uk

PET PORTRAITS

Professional furniture spraying

Wide range of finishes All colours available Trade & private enquiries welcome Collection & return service available Call Ian on 07970 871611 Email: ian@radiuswoodworkers.com www.radiuswoodworkers.com PEST CONTROL

Good Grounds & Gardens

D. ATTWELL

Radius Sprayshop

Good Grounds & Gardens Specialists in wildlife ponds

and gardens

Regular maintenance or one-off garden One-off maintenance or bigger re-designs Specialistspruning in wildlife&gardening Seasonal tidying & wildlife Call to discussponds your garden’s needs work Private & commercial

07923 447362

07923 447362 info@goodgroundsandgardens.co.uk info@goodgroundsandgardens.co.uk www.goodgroundsandgardens.co.uk

www.goodgroundsandgardens.co.uk PLUMBING

Advance Pest Control HAVE YOU GOT RATS OR MICE? WE’LL SORT THEM OUT

ALSO•Pigeons •Moles •Squirrels •Gulls •Bed-bugs •Ants •Fleas •Flies •Moths •Wasps

07771 503107

www.advancepestcontrolbristol.com BEST IN BRISTOL says threebestrated.co.uk PLUMBING

Off the Page Pet Portraits Prices from £20 – a perfect gift

Immortalise your furry friend with one of my drawings or colourful Rachel Heaton 07776 206002 paintings www.offthepageportraits.co.uk

PLUMBING +

HEATING

BOILER UPGRADES + CONVERSIONS SERVICING, REPAIRS + SAFETY CHECKS GENERAL PLUMBING + BATHROOMS WETROOMS T: 07952 272851 E: M6YOS@HOTMAIL.COM

0117

956 4475

LOCAL PLUMBER • TAPS • WASHERS

••REPAIRS/BURSTS REPAIRS/BURSTS • STOPTAPS STOPTAPS • DRIPS • LEAKS • REPAIRS •• TANKS, TOILETS TANKS, • TOILETS • BALL VALVES TAPS, WASHERS VALVES ••TAPS, WASHERS • BALL VALVES • LEAD PIPES ETC LEAD-PIPES •• LEAD-PIPES

0117 9564912 0117 **NO VAT** **NO VAT** **O.A.P. DISCOUNTS** DISCOUNTS** **O.A.P.

WIFI

SASH WINDOWS

PLUMBING

MAYO’S

Taps, Washers Toilets, Cisterns Leaks, Blockages Tanks, Overflows Lead Pipes, Stopcocks….etc…

OAP DISCOUNTS and NO VAT

SnugSash.co.uk Sash window specialist • Renovation • Draughtproofing • Double glazing • Repairs • Painting We can fit double glazing to your sash windows! www.snugsash.co.uk 07736 229727 SnugSash

Poor WiFi Signals Solved Fixed Price Solutions Full Home Coverage OAP Discounts

0117 967 9028 www.thewifiman.co.uk

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

INVITATION

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

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

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

MEDIUM SOUTH WEST

268 North Street, Southville, Bristol BS3 1JA

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

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

SOUTH WEST

MEDIUM AGENCY ESTATE AGENCY YEAR 2011

The Multi Award Winning Agent