South Bristol Voice October 2021

southbristolvoice

October 2021 No. 70

www.southbristolvoice.co.uk

We Sell and Let Property Like Yours

WIDEST CIRCULATION IN SOUTH BRISTOL – 15,000 copies of this edition

FREE MONTHLY IN Bedminster, Southville, Knowle, Totterdown, Ashton, Ashton Vale and Windmill Hill

We remember them 20 YEARS ON: Firefighters raise thousands in tribute to lives lost in 9/11 terror attacks Page 9

First images of South Bristol school released

By Amanda Cameron, LDRS reporter for South Bristol Voice The first images of a new secondary school planned for South Bristol have been released.

They show what the new Oasis Academy in Knowle could look like if design plans are approved by Bristol City Council.

The 900-place school on Daventry Road is expected to open in 2024, a year later than planned

Man injured after Knowle air rifle shooting Page 3 Popular toddler groups relaunch in Southville Page 5 British sitcom memorabilia preserved Page 27 Why looking after your back is so important: Read our 'Back Pain Awareness' special feature, pages 30-31

Read more, page 4

We Sell and Let Property Like Yours Tel: 01179634373

Email: Southville@cjhole.co.uk

Web: cjhole.co.uk

IN

southbristolvoice

2

southbristolvoice

Contacts

Becky Day Editorial director news@southbristolvoice.co.uk Ruth Drury Sales director 07590 527664 sales@southbristolvoice.co.uk Rich Coulter Editorial director news@southbristolvoice.co.uk Editorial team: Lindsey Cole Next month’s deadline for editorial and advertising is October 13

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

Further details of the complaints process can be found on our website (below) or can be obtained by contacting the Editor by email: news@southbristolvoice.co.uk or by post: 111 Broadfield Rd, Knowle, Bristol BS4 2UX or by phone: 0777 555 0607.

October 2021

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 the above number for an appointment My councillor?

Post: (all councillors) City Hall, College Green, Bristol BS1 5TR. Tessa Fitzjohn Green, Bedminster By phone: 07584182801 By email: Cllr.Tessa.Fitzjohn@bristol.gov.uk Mark Bradshaw Labour, Bedminster. By email: Cllr.mark. bradshaw@bristol.gov.uk By phone: 0117 353 3160 Tony Dyer Green, Southville 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

By phone: 07584182862 By email: Cllr.Tony.Dyer@bristol.gov.uk Christine Townsend Green, Southville By phone: 07584183843 By email: Cllr.Christine.Townsend@bristol. gov.uk Christopher Davies Lib Dem, Knowle Email: Cllr.Christopher.

Davies@bristol.gov.uk Phone: 07826917714 Gary Hopkins Lib Dem, Knowle (Lib Dem deputy leader) Email: Cllr.Gary.Hopkins@bristol.gov.uk Phone: 07977 512159 Ed Plowden Green, Windmill Hill Phone: 07584184577 By email: Cllr.Ed.Plowden@bristol.gov.uk Lisa Stone Green, Windmill Hill Phone: 07584186535 By email: Cllr.Lisa.Stone@bristol.gov.uk

Housing benefit 0117 922 2300 Social services 0117 922 2900 Police Inquiries 101 Emergency 999

Follow us on social media:

southbristolvoice.co.uk/complaints-procedure

All stories and pictures are ©South Bristol Voice (unless otherwise stated) and may not be reproduced without permission.

South Bristol Media Ltd | Co. no. 11948223 | VAT no. 322 3640 38

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

October 2021

southbristolvoice

News Police appeal after man shot on construction site in Knowle

By Lindsey Cole A man has been shot in the leg whilst working on a building site in Knowle.

The machine operator, who would like to remain anonymous, felt a sharp impact pain on his right leg whilst driving a JCB Excavator at Innes Court at 4.45pm on September 6.

The 68-year-old man said: “I started work in the morning, making trial pits to see what the foundations are like to see if it is stable to build on. I started to dig the last pit and suddenly felt a sharp pain. I thought something had flown up from the excavator.”

When the man’s colleagues helped bandage the wound up they said it made an impact that looked like an air rifle pellet, and called the police.

“Police confirmed it was a pellet wound and told me to go to the walk in centre at Hengrove,” the man said.

The bullet buried itself deep into his calf and still remains there today.

“The doctor said the pellet is

best to stay where it is, so it is less likely to get infected.

“Luckily, I was wearing shorts, because it was a hot day.

They said if I was wearing trousers the pellet would have taken fabric with the impact and infected my leg.”

The self-employed contractor has been unable to work since the incident.

“I’m going to be out of pocket this week, as it’s too painful to walk on and I don’t want it to get worse. I don’t need this sort of thing at my age.”

PC Andrew Leitch said: “This is a concerning incident in which the victim was shot at while operating a mechanical digger.

“It was a mindless and reckless act which could have had serious consequences. We’re appealing for anyone in the community with information to come forward as soon as possible.”

If you saw this incident, or have information on who was involved, please call 101 and give the call handler the reference number 5221206581.

Google Maps

The Inns Court Avenue area where the victim was working when shot

Full Service

CLEANING

prices om g fr startin

£12* NEWNB AIR B IuCr!E pSeEr RhVo

We pride ourselves on being professional, fully insured, well mannered, efficient and competitively priced.

Regular Domestic & Commercial Cleaning (weekly & fortnightly, end of tenancy cleaning, one off cleaning, carpet cleaning, communal area cleaning or by request) All cleaning products supplied and included in price. t unur 1s Distcoho lar angmuing for re cle ers! o st u EE* cFR

NO FEES OR CONTRACTS!

All you have to pay is the agreed rate when you use our services. *Subject to availability and terms and conditions

www.fullservicecleaning.co.uk

Office: 01173 215 815

Mobile: 07572 412 600

3

Post Office to close for one month A Bedminster Post Office is due to close for refurbishment this month.

The branch, located at the Costcutter in St John's Lane, will temporarily shut for a month, from October 5 to November 4.

Once reopened, customers of the Post Office can expect significantly longer opening hours, from 46 hours a week to 110, plus new screens and counters.

The new opening hours will be Monday to Saturday, 7am-11pm, and Sunday, 9am-11pm.

A Post Office spokesperson said that the following branches will be happy to provide customers with Post Office services during this period: • Totterdown Post Office, 33 Oxford Street, Bristol, BS3 4RJ • Knowle Post Office, 323 Wells Road, Bristol, BS4 2QE

Creative writing project to celebrate Black History Month A local mental health charity is running a creative writing project tying in with Black History Month.

Black History Month is running throughout October and this year the theme is Proud To Be. In line with the theme, charity Changes Bristol are asking the community to get involved with a storytelling, poetry and spoken word project to celebrate.

They are looking for pieces of writing covering topics including culture, race, history, allyship, community and mental wellbeing. In late October, the charity will host a reading showcasing the submitted pieces.

Changes Bristol has been running since 2003, and in

January 2021, it launched a peer support group specifically for Women of Colour.

Fayola Edmunds, who runs the Women of Colour group, said: “Many of us in the Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic communities felt like there isn’t any support or outlet to process our feelings around discrimination and our mental wellbeing. I feel that racial abuse leaves survivors with a complex set of emotional scars that need to be discussed in order for us to heal.”

Entry deadline is October 22 and can be emailed to changeswords@changesbristol. org.uk. If you would prefer to speak it aloud, call the Changes Bristol team on 0117 941 1123.

- MOT Testing - Servicing - Fully up-to-date diagnostic equipment - Air Con servicing MOT & SERVICE CENTRE LTD - Clutch & Gearbox repairs 0117 972 1711 | southwestautos_7@live.co.uk - MOT testing - Servicing - Fully| up-to-date Tyres and wheel alignment diagnostic equipment - Aircon servicing - Clutch - Engine rebuilds & Replacements and gearbox repairs - Tyres and wheel alignment - Welding Engine rebuilds and replacements - Welding - Van Van security systems security systems - And much more & much more

FIND US: The Old Firestation, 14 Bonville Road, BS4 5QF

0117 972 1711 | southwestautos_7@live.co.uk |

Got a story for South Bristol Voice? Call 07789 864769 or email news@southbristolvoice.co.uk

October 2021

southbristolvoice

4

News

Images of new Knowle secondary school released Plans for the 900-place school are due to be submitted this month Continued from page 1 in a delay criticised by local politicians.

It was first announced in 2019 but the design plans are still to be submitted to the local authority for approval.

Now Wates Construction, the company appointed by the Department for Education to build the school, has released images reflecting the plans due to be submitted this month.

The proposed school building will be partly two-storey and partly three storeys high, with more than 6,700sqm of floor space, according to information on the firm’s website.

It is set to contain both teaching and support areas, as well as a separate four-court sports hall and activity studio.

Wates says the plans include “a welcoming entrance” and new landscaping including trees, hedgerows, grassed areas, seating and social spaces and security fencing.

Cycle parking for students, visitors and staff and accessible car parking bays will also be provided.

The public is being asked to comment on the proposals as part of the consultation needed before the planning application can be submitted (Information about how to comment is available here: wates-tenders.co. uk/oap) Previous outline consent was granted for the school as part of an application for the

Top, right: CGI of how the proposed Oasis Academy in Knowle could look. Bottom, right: Bird's eye view of the new school (grey building) and the new building for The Park community centre (white building). Source: Wates Construction

redevelopment of The Park Community Centre.

The community centre building must be demolished to make way for the academy, which will stand on the site of the old Merrywood School, which closed two decades ago.

The secondary school will be run by multi-academy trust Oasis Community Learning, which already runs eight schools in Bristol.

A statement issued by Wates read: “The design proposal has been guided by consultation with Oasis Community Learning, supported by the Department for Education’s technical and design advisors.

“Further discussions have been held with Bristol City Council ahead of this application.”

The planning application is expected to be submitted late September 2021, and a decision is expected by December, according to the firm’s website.

Building works are anticipated to start in March 2022 in time for a planned school opening in September 2024.

WE BUY COLLECTABLES

Extr £

£ Installation - Repair - Services

HIFI

DJ GEAR

ANY ITEMS CONSIDERED CASH | PAYPAL | BANK TRANSFER 07817 450005 or 07976 827967

collectorcaveltd@gmail.com

STAIRLIFTS

NEW from £1,399 RECONDITIONED from £899 RENTAL from £55 per month

Tel: 01749 346900 | www.suttonsstairlifts.co.uk The Works, Board Cross, Shepton Mallet BA4 5DX

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

SUTTO family to prov service policy.

We refurb either throug All com warran option as well checks We

October 2021

southbristolvoice

5

News

Excitement as popular toddler groups relaunch A local charity is welcoming back families to two of its toddler play sessions.

BS3 Community has reopened its 'BS3 Toddlers' and 'Toddler and Grandparents' groups, and is excited to offer a space for children and their families to socialise again.

‘BS3 Toddlers’ welcomes children and their parents and carers, including childminders.

The weekly sessions run on Wednesdays, 9-10.30am during term time and include a range of activities, such as singing, crafts and sensory play.

The sessions are £3.50 for one adult and child plus 50p for each additional child.

Taster sessions are available for £2.50.

‘Toddler and Grandparent Group’ (TAG) is recommended for children aged 12 months and over and is aimed specifically at grandparents and their grandchildren.

These sessions run on Wednesdays during term time, 10.45am-12pm. The warm and friendly group includes crafts, a story, singing and games. A voluntary contribution of £3 is recommended.

Both ‘BS3 Toddlers’ and ‘Toddler and Grandparent Group’ take place in the main hall (Milford Hall) at the Southville Centre, in Beauley Road.

A range of refreshments including fruit

and hot and cold drinks are available.

In light of the pandemic, BS3 Community says that it has put together a variety of measures to ensure that everyone feels safe and welcome. These include regular cleaning of surfaces and resources, hand sanitising stations and limiting numbers of attendees to the groups. Masks are requested in communal spaces but are not required during the sessions.

Emma Lunt, lead teacher for ‘BS3 Toddlers’ and ‘TAG’ said: “It’s so exciting to be welcoming back both of these fantastic groups. The Milford Hall offers such a beautiful, large, light and airy space for these

sessions. Children and their parents and carers have missed out on so much over the last few months.

“We’re so pleased to be able to offer the opportunity for families to share in play and laughter once again.

“It’s so important that children are given the chance to explore new opportunities and interact with each other; plus it’s great that their grownups can get together for a chat and a cuppa too!”

Further details about these and all other groups and classes available at BS3 Community can be found here: bs3community.org.uk/classes-activities

Trustpilot

YOUR FIRST CHOICE Emma Vincent and Lisa Pearson

FOR SALES & LETTINGS

3D VIRTUAL TOURS

LANDLORDS WANTED!

MORE SELL YOUR HOME NEW EASILY WITH OUR 3D TECHNOLOGY

Special offer: THREE MONTHS FREE MANAGEMENT*

* Conditions apply

OUR HEAD OFFICE IS ON YOUR Temple Meads DOORSTEP at 148 Wells Road, Totterdown BS4 2AG

Three Lamps junction

Bath Road

GREENWOODS Wells Road

Got a story for South Bristol Voice? Call 07789 864769 or email news@southbristolvoice.co.uk

Mon-Sat 9am-6pm Sun 9am-4pm Five Acre Farm Shop Tobacco Factory North Street BS3 1TF fiveacre.farm @fiveacrefarmer

10am-2.30pm every Sunday Tobacco Factory Raleigh Road BS3 1TF tobaccofactory.com @tobaccofactorymarket To advertise, contact sales@southbristolvoice.co.uk or Ruth on 07590 527664

October 2021

southbristolvoice

7

Advertising feature

Shop locally - and sustainably - at Tobacco Factory

W

ith our much-loved Sunday Market and ever growing gift range in the Farm Shop, Tobacco Factory is the perfect destination to shop for local, sustainable gifts.

In Five Acre Farm Shop you’ll find something for everyone, with our range of plants and gardening supplies, fresh seasonal produce from our own farm in Backwell, books, puzzles, homewares, toiletries, chocolate, craft beer, wine and gin, as well as cards from Bristol artists.

Make Sunday your shopping day and you’ll also be able to browse our Sunday Market stalls, with local makers and producers selling jewellery, clothes, prints, homewares, records, candles, foodie gifts, and loads more… We also have coffee from Rolling Italy and delicious street-food to fuel your shopping trip!

Five Acre Farm Shop is open MondaySaturday 9am-6pm and Sunday 9am-4pm.

Tobacco Factory Sunday Market is open 10am-2.30pm every week

Alpine LANDSCAPING Established family firm with 25 years experience

25% OF

WITH T F H ADVERTIS

★ Senior Citizens Special ★ Garden Clearance — Regular or one-off ★ Patios ★ Fencing ★ Tree Work ★ Turfing ★ Hedgecutting ★ Planting (Shrubs etc) ★ Organic manure delivered — Also applied ★ Professional and guarnteed work ★ Brick & Blocklaying

CALL JOE FOR A FREE QUOTE

Tel: 0117 959 2143 Mob: 07891 253 122

www.alpine-landscaping.co.uk Got a story for South Bristol Voice? Call 07789 864769 or email news@southbristolvoice.co.uk

October 2021

southbristolvoice

8

News

Supporting teens on their journey to adulthood

By Lindsey Cole A new community project supporting teenage boys through adventure and rites of passage has launched in South Bristol.

According to their vision, the Kingfisher Project 'seeks to create a community of parents and ‘men of trust’ who will work together to prepare and support boys aged 13-16 through an initiatory rite of passage towards modern manhood'.

Using mentoring with trusted, supportive men, combined with an adventure weekend in Snowdonia, the project builds community, deepens trust and enhances family relationships.

Sean Taylor of Windmill Hill, set up the Kingfisher Project along with three friends, because he wanted his teenage son to have something that he didn’t when he was growing up.

He says: “Some teenagers can feel unseen, misunderstood and rejected. Their families live in fear of not knowing what to do for their lost teenage boys. We

260-262

N

t, BS3 orth Stree

The Cae Mabon campsite where the boys would stay during their adventure weekend in Snowdonia wanted to do something to help them and believe it takes a village to raise a child and responsibilities of that child

1JA

Zero Waste

belong to the whole village.”

In many traditional cultures, a boy reaching adolescence is taken out of his familiar

Store

253 North Street, BS

3 1JN

community to participate in an initiation.

“This allows for an important separation from the parents at a crucial point in the teenager’s development.

“Modern societies tend not to follow this pattern and suffer the consequences.

“Our intention is to once again offer teenage boys proven paths to male maturity,” Sean says.

The Kingfisher Project says: “As boys move into their teens, our society no longer provides them with the rites of passage that will see them safely through.

“A lack of rites of passage leads many young men to self-initiation and a range of troubled behaviours - from anxiety to addictions, self-harm and gangs.”

The Kingfisher Project is taking applications until December 10.

If you’d like to find out more about their work please visit www.kingfisherproject.org.uk.

HT

d, BS5 9

urch Roa

Ch 259-261

2001–2021 - Celebrating 20 years of good food!

A delicious feast of organic, locally sourced, artisan, and ethically responsible products. Including a whole range of plastic-free choices.

Click and collect from www.southvilledeli.com

OPEN 7 days a week

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

October 2021

southbristolvoice

9

News

Firefighters' tribute to lives lost in 9/11 attacks Firefighters came together at Ashton Gate Stadium last month to mark two decades since the 9/11 terrorist attacks, by climbing the equivalent height of the World Trade Centre's 110 stories.

Just over £4,500 has been raised by more than 30 staff from Avon Fire and Rescue Service, who voluntarily climbed the stadium's Lansdown Stand staircase in full firefighting kit for 102 minutes.

To honour the 3,000 lives lost - including 343 emergency responders - the team started their climb at 8:46am, the time the first hijacked aircraft hit the North Tower and finished at 10:28am - the time the second tower collapsed on 9/11.

Each volunteer donned full fire kit representing the gear worn by those who responded to the terror attacks 20 years ago, weighing approximately 25kg.

The impressive sum of money raised will be donated to The Fire Fighters Charity.

Watch manager and AF&RS charity lead, Rich Wheeler, said: “We all remember the awful events which occurred on 9/11, and this year marked the 20th anniversary.

“As a service we wanted to do something special to honour and remember the 343 members of the firefighting family who lost their lives in the emergency response and all

Firefighters commemorate those who lost their lives on 9/11 with a charity stair climb at Ashton Gate Stadium others who sadly lost their lives.

“I wanted to thank those who took part and volunteered in the challenge, and what a challenge it was to climb those stairs for 102 minutes in full fire kit.

“I know it wasn’t easy, but we did it, and we raised a huge amount of money for a fantastic charity while honouring those lives lost on 9/11 – so thank you.

“I’d also like to thank those who donated and gave so generously, we’ve managed to raise just over £4,500 which will go to a fantastic cause.”

Loft Boarding & Insulation

Cllr Brenda Massey, chair of the Avon Fire Authority, added: “On the anniversary of the 9/11 terrorist attacks, our crews set themselves an incredible challenge in memory of those firefighters who lost their lives 20 years ago.

“I am in awe of the strength and dedication of the firefighters and staff who took on the challenge.

“On behalf of the Fire Authority, I’d like to say a huge congratulations to all those involved.” To donate, visit: www.justgiving. com/fundraising/rich-wheeler343

MATTHEW KING STONEMASON CALL 07979 895569

BEFORE

AFTER

www.useyourloftspace.co.uk USE YOUR LOFT SPACE is the reliable, affordable and trusted local company for all your loft boarding, and loft insulation requirements

0117 2980810 INFO@USEYOURLOFTSPACE.CO.UK

Providing unwavering standards and traditional values for 36 years • Newly worked stone • Carving • Restoration • Rebuilding • Pennant walling • Repointing • Paint removal • Buyer’s survey

www.mkingstone.com

Got a story for South Bristol Voice? Call 07789 864769 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

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

SOUTH WEST

MEDIUM AGENCY ESTATE AGENCY YEAR 2011

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

With 17 offices covering Bristol, Gloucester and Somerset

The Multi Award Winning Agent

October 2021

southbristolvoice

11

News

Eco-activist Libby's important message about waste

By Lindsey Cole South Bristol local, Libby Bowles, celebrated her birthday by paddling and litter picking her way down the River Wye with friends.

“The Wye has a plethora of wildlife and is a tourist hotspot. I was interested to see how polluted the river is close to urban and popular areas,” Libby [pictured, right] said.

Libby and her friends found four trolleys, an oven, a wheelie bin and ‘the usual suspects’ related to packaging. One plastic bottle had a letter inside. “It was ‘posted’ in the river by a 5-year-old girl three months earlier. I contacted the number on the letter and we’ve since become pen pals and are going to do a litter picking trip together.”

The Bedminster environmentalist said the worst day was finding a Combined Sewage Outlet. CSOs are emergency discharge points to stop sewage treatment systems from bursting during heavy rainfall. “In 2019 raw sewage was released into English rivers over 200,000 times, for more than 1.5 million hours. We saw pipes pumping out brown liquid into the Wye. The banks were lined with brown foam and items that go down a loo.”

Most of the 80 mile journey saw the group paddle through idyllic stretches, “with no

other humans in sight. Kingfishers and herons swooped beside us. It was heavenly,” she said.

Libby grew up in a village, spending most her time outside. “I am happiest in nature.

Over the past 18 months we’ve been reminded how precious it is to be outside, so my friends and I made the most of every moment, from sunrise swan visits to campfires marvelling at the swooping bats.”

The former teacher has worked in conservation since 2004. “I studied the effects of tourism on fish and coral populations. Having seen what we were doing to the ocean I returned to education and have

embarked on adventures to draw attention to the importance of taking care of our planet,” she said.

In 2017, Libby was part of an all female team that paddled from Bristol to London litter picking. She then cycled her homemade bamboo bicycle, delivering conservation workshops in eight countries.

Libby is filled with hope for the future.

“Young people are determined to make a difference. But we can’t leave it to them. We need to stop creating waste. Avoiding single-use plastic and using refillables is just the beginning. Then we can think about changing who we bank with, what we eat, where we buy clothes, how we travel, even who we have a pension with. All our choices affect the planet. But, it’s best not to think of them all at once. Change one at a time.”

When Libby’s not paddling a river, she works for Sustainable Hive, an education consultancy in Bristol. They’re currently using a recycled plastic boat in the city, helping the harbourmaster to keep the water clean and educating people to understand why it’s critical to look after our waterways.

To get involved, please check out www. sustainablehive.com. To see more of Libby’s work visit www.treadlighter.org

WINDOWS | DOORS | ROOFLIGHTS

Download your FREE guide

BUYER’S GUIDE

SE OF PURCHA R NEXT FLIGHTS FOR YOU AND ROO S, DOORS WINDOW

www.facebook.com/crystalclearbristol WINDO

S WS | DOOR

| ROOFL

IGHTS

971 7880 TEL: 0117

www.pinterest.co.uk/crystalclearbristol

BS4 5PF

Aluminium, Timber, PVCu, Windows, Doors & Rooflights Y 24 EMER

OL RD BRIST

Plan your dream home

Visit Bristol’s Biggest Showroom at 24 Emery Road Brislington, Bristol BS4 5PF

To find out more, call 01179 717 880 or visit www.crystalclearbristol.co.uk to download your FREE buyer’s guide Got a story for South Bristol Voice? Call 07789 864769 or email news@southbristolvoice.co.uk

A new development of 9 x 1, 2 and 3 bedroom apartments in the highly sought-after area on Brook Road, Southville BS3

Prices starting from £235,000 To register your interest, please contact Ocean Land & New Homes 0117 946 9838 / newhomes@oceanhome.co.uk www.oceanhome.co.uk

https://lombardplacebs3.co.uk/ To advertise, contact sales@southbristolvoice.co.uk or Ruth on 07590 527664

October 2021

southbristolvoice

13

Property Feature - buying and selling in South Bristol ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE

Trustpilot

YOUR FIRST CHOICE FORselling SALES &and LETTINGS Emma Vincent and Lisa Pearson to An expert guide buying a property

SELLER'SIR GUIDE TUAL

3D V TOURS

LANDLORDS WANTED!

Getting ready for marketing An over-staged property is easy to spot, especially if there is too much artwork on the walls, too many cushions and throws on the sofa or a dining table set for a formal banquet. Subtlety is key. For viewings, make sure there are no over powering smells. You can add pleasing scents to your home by placing an attractive vase of flowers in the living room or a delicate scented candle in the bedroom. Box up anything you don’t need before the move, because less clutter equals more space, which means your property will be larger. Make sure all rooms are well lit and avoid unnecessary noise from your appliances, like the washing machine or dishwasher.

Special offer: MORE SELL YOUR HOME Extra marketing tools TH for your REE MONTHS EW N R U O H IT property W LY SI EA EE Wondering whereFR property MANAGEMENT* Y advertised?your Gbe Not only do we 3D TECHNOLOwill advertise on Rightmove, your * Conditions apply on property will also be marketed Zoopla, Facebook and Instagram, our own Life Magazine and of course our own website.

OUR HEAD OFFICE IS ON YOUR Temple Meads DOORSTEP at 148 Wells Road, Totterdown BS4 2AG

Three Lamps junction

Bath Road

GREENWOODS Wells Road

BUYER'S GUIDE

Buying a new home is an exciting time, and we want to make it as easy as possible for you.

Here's the process from a brief start to finish.

The first thing you’ll need to do is get a mortgage in principle. It’s important to make sure the property you buy is right for you, so make sure you ask lots of questions at the viewing. Once you have found your perfect home, it’s time to make an offer. Once your offer has been accepted, the property is then marketed as ‘sold subject to contract’ and will be taken off the market.

If you haven’t already, the next step is to find a solicitor to deal with all the legal processes involved in transferring home ownership from the seller to you. Whilst your solicitor is getting on with the legal side of the purchase, you’ll need to get the financial side in place by formally applying for a mortgage. You may also want to go ahead with a more comprehensive survey, but this is completely to your discretion. Once your solicitor has received your mortgage offer and the conveyancing is complete, you will be able to exchange. Soon after this you will complete on the purchase. Congratulations, you are now a proud owner of your new home.

If you are thinking of selling or buying your first/second home or even your third, we would love to help. Get in touch by emailing knowle@greenwoodsproperty.co.uk or call us on 01179 777672.

How we are here to help you Buying a home is one of the most important decisions you can make, and you want to make sure you have the right professionals helping you along the way. If you are stuck on who to use, here is a list of some people we can recommend: • Solicitor • Roofer • Surveyors • Electrician • Mortgage broker • House clearance • Damp specialist • Removals

Got a story for South Bristol Voice? Call 07789 864769 or email news@southbristolvoice.co.uk

southbristolvoice

14

October 2021

Property Feature - buying and selling in South Bristol ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE

Buying and selling at Christmas - the pros and cons

B

uying and selling your home at any time of the year is stressful but there are some pros and cons to be aware of in the lead up to the festive season if you are thinking of putting your house on the market or dreaming of making your next, perfect move!

One of the main things to consider when selling your house from September onwards is that estates agents, solicitors and also other third party involvements with surveyors and local councils, all take extended breaks between Christmas and New Year which can inevitably either slow up or postpone the process.

The average time traditionally for a sale to go through its legal step is 12 weeks, and therefore thinking about completion dates is something to be mindful of throughout.

There are typically fewer properties on the market at Christmas time, with many choosing to wait until the New Year.

This can work to a seller’s advantage as there is less to choose from for a buyer and less to compare against.

In addition to this, potential purchasers/

viewers are likely to be more serious and in sought after areas especially, this can often lead to fierce competition between buyers and sellers hoping to achieve a higher sale price.

It has often been said that one of the first things a buyer will think about on a viewing is where the Christmas tree will go! It’s a fantastic opportunity to show your home in the cosiest of lights.

Purchasing a home is one, if not the biggest, investment you’ll ever make and it can take time to find the perfect property in a marketplace that often feels very rushed with regards to offering.

Some of the pros to purchasing at this time of the year in favour of a buyer is that as the market tends to be less busy, firstly you may have more time to view a property and not feel so hurried around it.

Secondly, less people looking may equal to greater flexibility in a negotiation, leading to a potential bargain. Whether you’re looking to sell or buy throughout the Christmas period, there are definite benefits that cannot be taken advantage of at other times of the year!

m atthews estates.co.uk

Matthews Estates is a local family business with nearly 30 years of experience in the south Bristol area.

ARE YOU THINKING OF MOVING THIS YEAR? Call for a FREE VALUATION or pop into our office and speak to our local, friendly staff.

m atthews estates.co.uk

298 Wells Road, Knowle Bristol BS4 2QG 0117 971 1417 www.matthewsestates.co.uk enquiries@matthewsestates.co.uk

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

October 2021

southbristolvoice

15

News

Volunteers needed to help community asset blossom

By Lindsey Cole A Totterdown resident is organizing a public meeting for anyone interested in the future of Zone A. The land off Wells Road, between Firfield Street and Highgrove Street, is owned by the community of Totterdown. “People aren’t aware it’s a community asset. It has symbolic importance to Totterdown,” said local resident, Jeremy Welsh [pictured].

Following the demolition of the area around Angers Road for a road development in the 1980s, that was subsequently abandoned, Bristol City Council gave the land to the community as a reconciliatory gesture.

Totterdown Area Community Association would like to ensure that the land continues to belong to the community for future generations and are looking for volunteers who are interested in managing, maintaining and planting for the future. They are also looking for trustees who will ensure the land is used in the wider

interest of the community.

“It’s a blank canvas which could be developed in many different ways.

It’s currently not being fulfilled. This is a great opportunity for local people to come together and improve a valuable community asset.

“If someone wants to take on a small project in the community, this is their chance. We could have formal gardens, something more wildlife based or even a skate park. It’s got potential but we need volunteers to help come up with ideas, organise and fundraise.”

To get involved with the development of Zone A, the meeting will be held at Saltcellar, Totterdown Baptist Church on Cemetery Road on 14th October 2021, at 19:30.

Town and Country Planning (Development Management Procedure) (England) Order 2015 Notice under Article 13 of Application for Planning Permission Proposed development at: Land adjoining 2 Clifton View, Totterdown, Bristol. Take notice that application is being made by: Rosemary Sleightholme. Applicants name: Ms Rosemary Sleightholme. For planning permission to: Proposed erection of energy efficient 3 bedroom family dwelling to the end of terrace plot (Self Build). This will reinstate the original 1 Clifton View which was demolished in the 1980s. Access via shared path in front of all houses (2-11) on terrace. Ownership of shared path not known by residents. Local Planning Authority to whom the application is being submitted: Bristol City Council. Local Planning Authority address: Development Management (CH), Bristol City Council, PO Box 3399, Bristol, BS1 9NE. Any owner of the land or tenant who wishes to make representations about this application, should write to the council within 21 days of the date of this notice. Signatory: Ms Rosemary Sleightholme. Date: 25/9/2021 Statement of owners’ rights: The grant of planning permission does not affect owners’ rights to retain or dispose of their property, unless there is some provision to the contrary in an agreement or lease. Statement of agricultural tenants’ rights: The grant of planning permission for non-agricultural development may affect agricultural tenants’ security of tenure. ‘Owner’ means a person having a freehold interest or a leasehold interest the unexpired term of which is not less than seven years.

‘Tenant’ means a tenant of an agricultural holding any part of which is comprised in the land.

BRISTOL

We can help you manage your money and map out your financial future, whatever your life’s ambitions.

We specialise in wealth protection and preservation, goal-based financial planning and estate planning.

For more information on how we can help you to plan for a secure financial future, please contact: Andrew Barr | Wealth Planner

07384 460767 | 0800 0514659

andrew.barr@successionwealth.co.uk successionwealth.co.uk

Whitefriars, Lewins Mead, Bristol BS1 2NT Succession Wealth is a trading style of Succession Wealth Management Limited, which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Financial Services Register number 588378 Please note, The Financial Conduct Authority does not regulate advice on Estate Planning.

Got a story for South Bristol Voice? Call 07789 864769 or email news@southbristolvoice.co.uk 23/08/2021

SGL023-381 Succession Wealth Bristol - South Bristol Voice - 180x120mm Advert AW.indd 1

14:07

Bristol Reclamation

Bristol Reclamation is now a Southville destination beloved by interior designers and those hunting for unique vintage decorative pieces or homewares. But when it opened in 2004 it was as a workshop offering a door stripping service. This quickly moved into the sale of doors and door related ironmongery, and then expanded into the sale of other architectural features including fireplaces and floorboards. Gradually moving into vintage furniture and a made to order service using reclaimed wood.

Bristol Reclamation now focuses on furniture and interiors. There's a huge choice of various items of furniture from Victorian to mid-century, Indian cabinets, original artwork, vintage decorative items, glassware, vintage planters, rugs, prints, mirrors, reclaimed garden items galvanized water tanks and more. Stock changes fast so its always worth checking in so see what's new.

3 Park Road, Southville, BS3 1PU Opening hours: Wednesday - Saturday, 11am-5pm and Sunday, 11am-3pm

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

October 2021

southbristolvoice

News

Workshops launched to gauge ideas on future of Western Harbour Conversations about the future of Western Harbour have been brought to the fore again, after the council launched a new engagement programme in September.

It hopes to initiate a citywide conversation about people's hopes and aspirations for the controversial redevelopment of the area centred around Cumberland Basin.

At the time of printing, a series of engagement activities were due to be held across the city, including an event at Riverside Garden Centre on September 25.

When initial plans to redevelop Cumberland Basin were floated in 2019, it threatened the future of the Southville garden centre. But many rallied behind the business and called for it to be protected.

A new 'Harbour Hopes' website and social media feed have been launched as part of the programme, which include an interactive map for local people to leave comments with ideas.

All feedback collated from the programme will be considered in workshops led by the design teams, which will then feed into a 'vision' for Western Harbour.

The vision will in turn help to shape the brief for

Valid until 31st October 2021

a detailed long-term masterplan for the area.

Further engagement will take place in 2022 as the masterplan emerges.

To find out about up and coming events, and news please visit Harbour Hopes website, harbourhopes.co.uk, and follow @HarbourHopes and #HarbourHopes on Instagram.

17

Volunteers wanted for diabetes charity A local charity, supporting people with type 2 diabetes, is urgently calling on south Bristolians to volunteer as peer mentors.

Since the easing of Covid restrictions, Brigstowe has seen a rise in the number of referrals to their peer support service - and they need locals who are living well with the condition to help meet the demand for mentors.

According to the charity, the pandemic has impacted patients’ access to non-acute care, with vital health checks being either postponed or cancelled. It has also caused the closure of many support groups and other social networks.

Danni, a peer mentor living in South Bristol, says: “I love being a peer mentor, it gives me so much pleasure to help other people in the same situation as me. By mentoring it also gives me strength to continue to manage my type 2 diabetes.”

Applications close on October 1, so visit brigstowe.org/diabetes to apply, or contact diabetes@ brigstowe.org or 0117 9055 5038.

Valid until 31st October 2021

Opening hours: 5.30pm - 11pm every day A takeaway menu is available for collection and a 10% discount is offered on this service. Full licensed and air conditioned

Got a story for South Bristol Voice? Call 07789 864769 or email news@southbristolvoice.co.uk

October 2021

southbristolvoice

18

News

Green motion for carbon zero buildings wins support

By Amanda Cameron, LDRS reporter for South Bristol Voice All new buildings constructed in Bristol will be built to carbon neutral standards at the “earliest possible opportunity” under a motion approved by the local authority.

Councillors unanimously voted through the motion in September after Green Windmill Hill councillor Lisa Stone introduced it with a stark warning about the looming climate crisis.

The Green Party motion with amendments from Labour seeks to apply zero carbon building standards in Bristol as quickly as possible and to promote all new developments to be built to that standard from 2025.

Cllr Stone, who is an electrician and has worked on building sites, said: “Climate change is real and it is happening.

As one side of the world is burning and the other side is under water, we continue to burn fossil fuels and release massive

Windmill Hill councillor Lisa Stone amounts of carbon, causing global warming that has no boundaries.

“This will affect you, it will affect me, it will affect everybody.

It will cause massive wars and extinctions and there will be thousands of refugees.

“The good news is we are going to tackle this problem.”

Cllr Stone said Bristol is

already building houses to a carbon standard that is 25 per cent better than “out of date” building regulations from 2013.

She said the motion would allow the council to embed “strict” carbon zero standards in its emerging local plan for housing, which would help the city to reach its target of being carbon neutral by 2030.

“We will lead the nation towards our carbon zero targets,” she said.

Councillors from the Labour and Conservative groups rose to back the motion, which also received guarded support from the Liberal Democrats, who said more focus on retrofitting was needed.

Cllr Stone said building homes now that would have to be retrofitted later would be “massively expensive and totally unfair”.

Thirty per cent of all carbon emissions come from housing.

The motion calls on the Labour administration to apply zero carbon standards “at the earliest possible opportunity” through revision of the city’s local plan.

It also resolves that the administration will promote all new buildings to be built zero carbon from 2025, and that a strategic plan will be established to enable some Bristol City Council and private projects to achieve the standard earlier.

Up to

£1,000 OFF

Did you know Bristol City Council fund a loan scheme for homeowners? *

the cost of works to your home**

Working in partnership with We Care Home Improvements and Lendology CIC, the partnership takes the stress out of funding and finding contractors for home repairs, improvements or adaptations.

If you are a homeowner, of any age, and need to make essential repairs to your home, call us today for more information. Works covered under the scheme include roof repair, electrical and plumbing work, damp and structural remedies, heating installations or replacement, amongst other works.

For an informal chat about the loan scheme and eligibility, call Lendology on 01823 461099, email loans@lendology.org.uk or visit www.lendology.org.uk

For more information on the services provided by We Care Home Improvements, call 0300 323 0700 or visit www.wecr.org.uk

*Subject to eligibility. **A maximum reduction of £1,000 from an approved loan over £2,000. For loans £2,000 or less, the reduction will be 50% of the loan value.

Budget is limited and will be awarded on a first come, first served basis. Typical Example (4% fixed interest rate, Typical 4.2% APR). Borrow £5,000 over 60 months. £92.08 monthly repayments. Total amount repayable = £5,544.96, including £20 fee for registering the Title Restriction. Missing payments could affect your credit rating and ability to obtain credit in the future. Loans are subject to status and are typically protected by a Title Restriction. This means that you may not be able to sell your home without our permission unless the loan is fully repaid. This is a financial promotion approved by Lendology CIC. Lendology CIC is a trading name of Wessex Resolutions C.I.C.: a community interest company limited by guarantee, registered in England, company number 4512225.

Registered address: Heatherton Park Studios, Bradford on Tone, Taunton TA4 1EU. Wessex Resolutions C.I.C is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (675263) for credit regulated activities.

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

October 2021

southbristolvoice

19

School News News Students benefit from fruitful collaboration with event service Bristol creative college boomsatsuma - which has studios at the Tobacco Factory in Southville - has teamed up with Brislington event technology service PYTCH. The collaboration will give students experience working in a professional live and virtual events environment.

PYTCH has been providing creative events services and technology to corporate and music clients for two decades.

The company opened its state-of-the-art studios in July ’21 to give boomsatsuma students insights into the potential careers they could follow. PYTCH founder Johnny Palmer said: “The quality of the students has really impressed the whole team and we are looking forward to welcoming many more.”

Martha Iles and Caitlyn Argles, Level 3 Extended Diploma Creative and Digital Media students based at Engine

Shed, were the first boomsatsuma students given a paid four-week placement.

Caitlyn said: “This has been a great opportunity. We’ve been made to feel part of the team and worked alongside them on ‘live projects’, which was really exciting.”

Martha added: “A big thing I’ve learned is to seize the opportunities – say yes, be willing to do what is needed and more doors will open.”

Mark Curtis, boomsatsuma director, commented: “Giving students high-end experiences with access to creative industry workplaces sits at the core of our ethos.

“I am sure this has given [Martha and Caitlyn] both great insight and boosted their confidence to take on a creative career, whether that be in events, TV, or film.

“It will be interesting to follow their progress.”

Check-in and make someone's day A south Bristol charity is calling on volunteers to give up some time each week to make someone's day.

BS3 Community Development, which supports people across the area facing loneliness and isolation, is calling out for new helpers for their befriending service.

Alice Lamb, project coordinator of Check in and Chat, said: “Volunteering is a great way to help others, make new friends, get involved in your community and learn new skills.

“Volunteers get so much from donating even a small amount of their time. Just making a phone call once a week to someone who is feeling lonely makes a huge difference, the people we support are so grateful for the companionship.”

The Check in and Chat service matches volunteers with someone who has similar interests so that a personal connection is created straight away.

Jim signed up as a volunteer at the start of the pandemic and has decided to keep supporting local people in need.

He said: “Check in and Chat tackles the problems of isolation that were exacerbated by lockdowns.

“When more vulnerable people had to shield, it cut them off from their usual activities and their social life. I've supported a range of people in BS3 by ringing a local person once a week for a chat.

“I've enjoyed getting to know them and hearing about their lives and their interests. I've learnt so much from talking with them. In return I hope that in a small way I've helped them to feel listened to and valued.”

To find out more (to volunteer or receive regular calls), contact alice.lamb@bs3community.org. uk or kate.kings@bs3community. org.uk or call 0117 9231039. For more volunteering opportunities, visit: bs3community. volunteermakers.org

CLEVE HOUSE SCHOOL & LITTLE CLEVE NURSERY

For boys and girls aged 2-11 years

Where learning is so much fun

TOBACCOFACTORY.COM

HEALTHY, DELICIOUS, VEGETARIAN FOOD We are proud members of the Sustainable Restaurant Association, a community of businesses working towards an environmentally restorative and socially progressive UK hospitality sector.

Our seasonal vegetarian menu is all made on the premises using locally sourced ingredients with as much as possible coming from our farm in Backwell, as well as other suppliers from the region.

Come and try our delicious new Autumn menu in the Café/Bar now, served Mon-Thurs 10am-3pm & 5.30-9pm, Fri-Sat 10am-9pm, Sun 10am-8pm.

Come and see us at 254 Wells Road, Bristol BS4 2PN | 0117 9777 218

FUNDED PLACES AVAILABLE www.clevehouseschool.co.uk www.clevehouseschool.co.uk

Got a story for South Bristol Voice? Call 07789 864769 or email news@southbristolvoice.co.uk

October 2021

southbristolvoice

20

Karin Smyth, MP for Bristol South

All workers need proper rights and protections

T

hroughout the pandemic, the glaring disparity between those in secure work who - as challenging as it was were able to work safely from home, and those people who had to put themselves at risk every day was very apparent.

We know that many key workers went out to work every day in unsafe conditions. We know that some people simply couldn’t afford to self isolate because they had no access to sick pay.

And we know that millions of selfemployed people fell through the gaps of Government support schemes and were simply left to fend for themselves.

The last 18 months have exposed the inadequacies of the UK’s employment system. And in large part, they are down to the different employment statuses that exist in the UK. Currently, there are three types of status: employees, the self-employed and “limb (b) workers”.

Each group has different rights, which means that for many people, the basic protections we should expect in the workplace simply do not exist.

The problem is further exacerbated by unscrupulous bosses who falsely categorize their staff as “self-employed”, even when

they should clearly have employee status.

This means people have fewer rights and protections, and are not entitled to the national minimum wage or paid holidays.

Here in Bristol, with our thriving hospitality and entertainment industry, there are thousands of casual employees affected by these discrepancies.

We also know that the problem of bogus self-employment is particularly apparent in the “gig economy”, amongst those who deliver our takeaways or drive our taxis.

Of course, we have many brilliant Bristol employers, who properly value and look after their staff.

But your access to the rights and protections you’re entitled to shouldn’t

depend on the attitude of your employer: it should be guaranteed in law.

That's why a Labour Government would end the discrepancies in our system, and give everyone security at work.

We would create a single status of “worker” for everyone but the genuinely selfemployed, removing qualifying periods for basic protections to give everyone rights in their job from day one.

Under our plans, all employees would be entitled to sick pay, the national minimum wage, parental leave, the right to flexible working and proper protection against unfair dismissal.

This shouldn’t be groundbreaking - these are basic 21st Century rights which every person should enjoy.

The pandemic has fundamentally changed our economy and has created many new opportunities which we should grab with both hands.

I’m optimistic that we can achieve a better work-life balance for people if we push ahead with policies that are built upon the modern world of work.

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

merchantsacademy.org

MERCHANTS’ ACADEMY Primary | Secondary

Proudly sponsored by:

Inspiring, motivating and educating students age 4 to 18

“ Pupils are safe and well cared for at Merchants’ Academy. ” OFSTED 2020 Visit website for information our Virtual Open Days in BY Autumn 2020.

YEAR 7 our PLACES FOR 2022 - about REMEMBER TO APPLY 31 OCTOBER G AT E H O U S E AV E N U E . W I T H Y W O O D . B R I S T O L . B S 1 3 9 A J 0117 301 5000

|

i n f o @ m e r c h a n t s a c a d e m y. o r g

|

Follow us @MerchantsAc

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

October 2021

southbristolvoice

21

News

Have your say on 'world class' youth facility The council is keen to hear people’s views on what a 'Youth Zone' in south Bristol could offer young people.

Plans for a space in the south of the city, specially designed for young people, were announced in March this year.

Delivered across the UK by the charity OnSide, Youth Zones are a network of affordable, high quality, spaces specially designed for ages 8-19, or for those aged up to 25 with special education needs or disabilities (SEND).

Youth Zones run inspiring group and individual activities, such as football, climbing, skating, DJing, and drama, overseen and supported by paid experts and volunteers. They also include employability and mentoring schemes and have dedicated youth workers.

Marvin Rees, Mayor of Bristol said: “As we emerge from the pandemic the effects of isolation and social dislocation on our young people, especially those in more disadvantaged communities, is becoming more apparent.

“With a new South Bristol Youth Zone, we have an opportunity to shape and plan for a better future for our children and young people, and I would encourage people to have their say in what this will look like.

“This is an opportunity to have a world class facility that will bring benefits for years to come for all of Bristol’s children and young people.”

All the responses from the survey will be used to help develop proposals for the Youth Zone.

There will be another opportunity to

comment on more detailed plans as part of a pre-planning application consultation later in the autumn.

The Youth Zone engagement survey closes Sunday, October 17.

Visit bristol.citizenspace.com/people/ youth-zone/consult_view to comment on the South Bristol Youth Zone.

Scholarships and Bursaries available

Life changing

We can help with up to 100% of the fees and other costs.

Sixth Form Information Evening Thursday 14 October 5.00pm–7.15pm Call Hollie Matthews on 0117 933 9885 The only co-educational school in Bristol to offer A levels and the IB Diploma in the Sixth Form

Got a story for South Bristol Voice? Call 07789 864769 or email news@southbristolvoice.co.uk

October 2021

southbristolvoice

22

Marvin Rees, Mayor of Bristol

Investing to protect sport and leisure in Bristol

A

ccess to high quality sport and leisure facilities is one of my administration’s top priorities. Our aims are to increase participation in sport and exercise, and lay the foundations for us to develop and support elite athletes of the future.

Growing up, sport was a gateway for me to develop confidence and discipline.

Some of my happiest memories are in the boxing gym or on the rugby field.

I’ve carried that love of sport with me all my life, and I know so many Bristolians share my passion for keeping active.

We are asking for your views on how we should invest in Bristol’s leisure centres and sports facilities.

We are bucking the trend by proposing investment in our leisure facilities, despite managing finite and declining budgets after more than a decade of cuts from central government.

The council has an important role as one of many leisure facility providers. We currently have nine council-owned leisure centres, and eight school leisure facilities that are available for the public to use.

It is important that we get the most impact per pound that we invest in terms of Bristolians’ health and fitness.

Our draft strategy for investment in Bristol’s leisure centres has two defining principles.

First, to improve facilities that are in areas where usage is high, so our investment reaches the highest number of people.

And second, to invest in areas where less wealthy citizens use and support leisure facilities.

Our leisure centres in Horfield, Easton and South Bristol Pool are all hugely popular sites that have a positive impact on their local communities. Henbury and Hengrove, which have long-term funding models in place, are also to be retained in the council’s leisure portfolio.

This will mean we have a core offer of five state-of-the-art leisure centres for Bristol that are spread out across the city and serve areas of high deprivation.

You can give us your views on our plans to invest in sport and exercise in the city by responding to the consultation, which you can access at https://bristol.citizenspace.com

"We are bucking the trend by proposing investment in our leisure facilities."

Life

changing Scholarships and Bursaries are available We can help with up to 100% of the fees and other costs

Individual tours available on most weekdays Call Hollie Matthews on 0117 933 9885 To advertise, contact sales@southbristolvoice.co.uk or Ruth on 07590 527664

October 2021

southbristolvoice

23

School News Advertising feature

Bedminster Down welcomes new leadership Bedminster Down School has welcomed a new principal to lead the school as part of the Futura Learning Partnership.

Matthew Woodville [pictured, right] has led schools in Keynsham, Bath and Bristol and he took over from Debbie Gibbs who returned to her permanent role as principal at IKB Academy in June.

A former lawyer who switched to teaching geography because of his passionate belief in the power of education to change lives, Mr Woodville was an assistant principal at Oasis Academy Brightstowe in Shirehampton.

He then moved to Oldfield School in Bath, where he skilfully led the school through a particularly difficult time.

More recently he led Wellsway School in Keynsham where he managed a number of significant improvements, resulting in strong exam results and a ‘good’ Ofsted judgement.

He commented: “Bedminster Down is a wonderful community school and I’m looking forward to getting to know its staff, students and families.

“My priority is ensuring that our young people are not

disadvantaged because of the disruption to their education through the pandemic.

“We will identify gaps in knowledge and understanding from previous years and intervene where necessary.

“I also appreciate that students have tolerated 18 months without trips, visits or practical lessons – we want to make sure these parts of school life come back stronger than before.”

BEDMINSTER DOWN SCHOOL

Belief Determination Success

Will your child be starting secondary school in September 2022?

Visit us and meet students and teachers on: • Saturday 2nd October from 10am-12pm Visit bedminsterdown.org.uk or t: 0117 353 2800 BEDMINSTER DOWN SCHOOL DONALD ROAD, BEDMINSTER BS13 7DQ Got a story for South Bristol Voice? Call 07789 864769 or email news@southbristolvoice.co.uk

October 2021

southbristolvoice

24

Your local councillors Gary Hopkins & Chris Davies Lib Dem councillors Knowle The Talbot formerly Charlie's Bar Wells Rd s reported in our July Focus Mag, chalk 'OPEN' signs appeared on the front of the above. The pub had been closed for some time and had been up for auction and would have required a new licence to sell alcohol. It was therefore a surprise to see the Open sign when usually councillors would have been informed beforehand if it was to reopen.

A subsequent check with the Licensing Department revealed there was no licence in place, the City Enforcement Team attended and advised the pub to close.

Recent notices appeared in the pub windows announcing an application for a premises licence had been applied for with the same Designated Premises Supervisor applying as in the previous establishment.

A

The opening hours are 10am to 12.30am Mon to Sun. The Licensing Sub Committee will remotely meet on 30th Sept to decide on this application 21/03182/PRGRT. Representations to be sent to: DET&Llicensing@bristol.gov.uk, or tel: 01173574900 Motion club noise pollution Residents of Somerset, Beckington & Maesknoll Rds together with the Windmill Hill councillors have contacted us both regarding the excessive noise level of music emanating from the Motion nightclub near Feeder Road.

We will collate these complaints and present them to the City Licensing Authority for the Noise Pollution Enforcement Team to investigate and then review the sound levels and then consider putting a limit on the volume level.

Lisa Stone & Ed Plowden Green councillors Windmill Hill

W

Jubilee Swimming Pool e are disappointed that Jubilee Pool is yet again at risk of closure, especially after all the work residents have done to keep it open. We are working across political parties to persuade the Mayor to keep the pool open long enough for a community asset transfer to take place, to protect it long-term.

Motion nightclub The noise throughout the August bank holiday was unacceptable, and it is vital that the wellbeing of the neighbourhood is considered.

We persuaded the Neighbourhood Enforcement Team to monitor the noise on subsequent weekends, but it was quieter and adjudged acceptable. An officer has contacted the premises for a copy of their noise recordings that they are required to make. You might want to monitor the noise

yourselves using a free phone app.

You can contact neighbourhood. enforcement@bristol.gov.uk or on 01179222500 (office hours).

122, Bath Road development.

Please have your say about the proposed plan of 54 flats next to the Thunderbolt pub by searching for Bristol planning portal and quoting reference - 21/04096.

You officially had until the 22nd September to comment but planning officers have assured us that community comments can be considered after this deadline.

Council speeches Ed and Lisa have made winning speeches in council, to protect wildlife-rich green spaces in Bristol from development and to impose tough carbon emission standards for all new buildings.

Both speeches were passionate and worked in collaboration with other parties to get the best possible outcomes.

GATEHOUSE AVENUE, WITHYWOOD, BS13 9AJ

MERCHANTS’ 0117 301 5000 MERCHANTS’ MA.16@merchantsacademy.org ACADEMY ACADEMY www.merchantsacademy.org/221/welcome-to-ma16 Sixth Form Sixth Form

@MA16_SixthForm

MA.16. A post-16 destination of choice #AimHigh

WHY CHOOSE MA.16?

Small class sizes | Pastoral support | Friendly environment | Financial support bursaries | High expectations | Bespoke careers guidance & training | University trips & application support | Tutor support program | Student leadership projects | Greater responsibility & freedom to manage your own time | Internship & apprenticeship opportunities | Fun opportunities & activities to get involved in alongside your studies.

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

October 2021

southbristolvoice

25

Your local councillors Mark Bradshaw Labour councillor Bedminster

A

fter much campaigning with support from local residents, junction protection measures along Duckmoor and Luckwell Roads are due to take effect from 16th October.

This is in response to the undoubted increase in vehicles parking in this part of Bedminster, not just on match days and partly due to the expansion of the nearby RPS. A minority of people park up irresponsibly, obstructing blue light access and the local bus services, and in various surveys conducted, this has been consistently flagged as a local priority. Virtually every junction along Duckmoor and Luckwell Roads will get double yellow line protection to improve visibility and physical access, as well as next to the traffic islands. The 'no parking' measures outside

Luckwell School will continue in force.

While the trial of the Voi E-scooters has proved popular for some, the rollout of many scooters without designated bays has been problematic. Councillors get complaints about scooters being left on pavements, blocking access.

Surely, Voi, who stand to benefit commercially from the use of their e-scooters in Bristol and elsewhere ought to invest more in local enforcement activity.

We are lucky to have such a dynamic and enthusiastic pharmacist serving the Bedminster area. Ade Williams is a regular contributor to the media and runs a series of health promotion campaigns during the year. He has led the creation of a community Covid vaccination hub and he deserves national recognition for his work.

Tony Dyer & Christine Townsend Green councillors Southville School Places s highlighted in our column last issue, there remain serious pressures on Year 7 places in our area. Christine can provide support to anyone impacted.

Parking Changes New parking restrictions will become operational on October 17 for most of the roads south of North Street.

The objective is to deter obstructive parking on streets near to Ashton Gate Stadium where local residents, ward councillors and Avon Fire & Rescue have reported vehicle access issues, particularly on match days.

Western Harbour We attended a briefing by the council regarding Western Harbour. It was confirmed that the council is essentially restarting and a “creative”

A

engagement process is now commencing which will continue to the end of the year.

Although we recognise that the Cumberland Basin area has city-wide implications, we emphasised the need for any process to fully engage with those local communities which would be most impacted by any changes, especially regarding any changes to the road layout.

Dean Lane Engagement Report This report has now been published. People were asked about the street environment, and on proposals to install a protected bike lane along Dean Lane.

“Widen pavements” was ranked as essential/high priority by 66% respondents, and “make it easier to cross” by 64% respondents. Over 63% of respondents agree or strongly agree with implementing a protected bike lane on Dean Lane.

St Katherine’s School - Sixth Form OPEN EVENING: WEDNESDAY 17 NOVEMBER RESERVE YOUR PLACE stkaths.org.uk/sixth-form With a consistent track record of strong examination results St Katherine’s Sixth Form promotes a love of learning and independent enquiry.

• Flexible learning options to suit every student • A broad range of academic and vocational courses • Learning Pathways offering transferable business skills alongside other studies • 21st century teaching and learning with Google classroom and Chromebooks • Exemplary pastoral care • Learning Mentors • Small class sizes for a personalised learning experience • Stimulating enrichment opportunities

PEOPLE • COMMUNITY • EXCELLENCE

For more information call 01275 373737 or email papworthh@skdrive.org St Katherine’s School, Ham Green BS20 0HU

St Katherine’s School

Tel: 01275 373737 Email: stkaths@skdrive.org

@stkathsschool

www.stkaths.org.uk

Got a story for South Bristol Voice? Call 07789 864769 or email news@southbristolvoice.co.uk

JUNIOR SCHOOL OPEN MORNING Saturday 6th November 2021 9.00am - 12.00pm

SIXTH FORM OPEN EVENING Thursday 7th October 2021 6.00pm - 8.30pm Visit our website to register for the event or contact admissions@cliionhigh.co.uk 0117 933 9087

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

October 2021

southbristolvoice

27

News

Lovely jubbly! A 'fun slice' of TV history preserved A Bedminster garage door, made famous by one of Britain's best-loved comedy series, is set to be preserved for years to come.

The original piece of memorabilia was Del Boy's red number 22 lock-up in the long-running BBC series Only Fools and Horses.

It was one of the councilowned garages in Duckmoor Road, built in 1962, but had to be replaced due to refurbishment works to the site.

The neighbouring Whitemead House featured in the series, portraying the fictional 'Nelson Mandela House' - the high-rise Peckham flats where Del Boy lived.

Faced with the need to find a new home for the door, the council turned to the team at The Bottle Yard Studios for help.

Specialist collector, Scott Harrington of Harrington Best of British Collection, then came forward and made a "generous donation" to the Film and TV Charity for the door.

Emma Reid, site coordinator at The Bottle Yard Studios, said: “The door represents a small but fun slice of British TV history made here in Bristol and we wanted to make sure it would be preserved for the future.

“When we found out about the other Only Fools and Horses items Scott had already collected, it seemed like the perfect home for it.

“We felt that the TV industry should benefit too, so we’re pleased to have arranged for Scott to make a generous donation to the Film & TV Charity, an organisation which

Do you want to invest in your future…?

24

provided an important lifeline for many TV and film crew throughout the challenges of the pandemic.”

Scott Harrington said: “My wife and I began collecting 20 years ago, picking up costumes and props from TV series at auction when it was still quite an unusual thing to do.

“The inspiration behind it was my Dad, a fun-loving, patriotic man who loved British TV. “He was battling a brain tumour which required major surgery and a long period of treatment, and when we started bringing home bits and pieces for

the collection, it always brought a big smile to his face.

“We continued collecting, focusing mainly on items from the 70s through to the 90s.

Today the collection is bigger than ever!

Scott already owns Del Boy’s yellow Reliant Regal threewheeler van and his Ford Capri Ghia, as well as Trigger’s medal from the 1996 Christmas special ‘Heroes and Villains’.

The Reliant Regal is currently on display at The British Motor Museum in Gaydon and Scott is in discussions with the museum to arrange for the door and Capri

Property Business n ch tio at uca

M d nd ent E a x m s™ Mi est se v r n u o rI 8C ou

Y

Scott Harrington with 'Only Fools and Horses' Ford Capri and Del Boy's red no. 22 garage door

●Property investment overview ●General Buy to Let ●Shared Houses (HMO) ●Holiday Lets / Serviced Apartments ●Property management ●Refurbishment ●House new build ●Passive investing in big projects (Due Dil) ●248Courses Sheets (for property business)

to join it in the future.

Scott says that he is currently in talks with the National Lottery Heritage Fun to open a family museum to showcase all the memorabilia he has collected.

Other Bristol locations used during the filming of Only Fools and Horses between 1981 and 2003 include Welsh Back, Brunel Lock Road, Penn Street in Broadmead, Park Avenue in Bedminster and Backfields Lane in St Paul’s.

For more information about the Film and TV Charity, visit: www.filmtvcharity.org.uk.

Investing and Trading in Financial Markets ●Stocks and indices overview ●Trading vs Investing ●Trading - getting started ●Investing - getting started ●Forex overview ●Crypto overview ●Charts and Patterns ●Fundamentals and News ●248Courses Sheets (for trading)

Testimonials available

Here are 18 topics from our courses. Pick three for a three hour session or six topics for a full day one-to-one coaching. You can mix from both sectors. £250 for a three hour session or SPECIAL OFFER £299 for you plus a friend! £420 for a full day session or SPECIAL OFFER £499 for you plus a friend!

Search

or

for ‘248Courses’ (no space between ‘8’ and ‘C’) for video info. Contact us on 07766 095662 or 248courses@gmail.com

Got a story for South Bristol Voice? Call 07789 864769 or email news@southbristolvoice.co.uk

Knowle Park Primary School Open Days & Evenings Reception Admissions September 2022 Wednesd洀y 13th October

5:00 - 6:00洀

Frid洀y 15th October

9:30 - 10:30洀

Wednesd洀y 1 th o e ber

5:00 - 6:00洀

Frid洀y 19th o e ber

9:30 - 10:30洀

Click here

or scan

to sign up for a visit

or call the school directly on 0117 377 2678

Queenshill Rd, Knowle, Bristol, BS4 2XG knowle.park.p@bristol-schools.uk To advertise, contact sales@southbristolvoice.co.uk or Ruth on 07590 527664

October 2021

southbristolvoice

29

What's On October 2021 Tuesday Arnos Vocale, 7-9pm at Knowle Methodist church hall For singers who love classical vocal music, great jazz standards and beautiful international folksongs all in 4-part arrangements and above. Some a Capella, some accompanied.

Experience of choral singing and reasonable sight-reading ability preferable but come for a free trial session where we can all see if it’s a fit! £8 each week thereafter.

Knowle Methodist church hall, entrance in Redcatch road BS4 2EP Contact Anya Szreter szreter.afm@ icloud.com Monday Nightingale Valley Community Choir, 7.30-9pm at St Cuthbert's Church, Sandy Park Road No experience necessary, no need to read music. Come and join our friendly choir and learn to sing better than you ever knew you could. Taster session free then £7 each week or £70 for 11 weeks.

Contact Anya Szreter szreter.afm@ icloud.com

Oct 23 - 24 Storytale Festival is back for 2021 with five live events. The festival is organised by a small group of local parents and celebrates stories for children, showcasing local authors, illustrators and storytellers and creating a range of fun events for various ages. storytalefestival.com

YOGA CLASSES Kate: 07967 623 392 kate@yogawithkaty.co.uk Instagram: @katylou_fox Caroline: 07570 507 494 caroline@carolinereidyoga.com Instagram: @carolinereidyoga • Have you got an event you'd like included in our What's On section?

Email sales@southbristolvoice. co.uk

What's on at your local churches CHURCH OF CHRIST, St John's Lane, BS3 5AY Currently meeting every Sunday: • 9:00 - Worship & Breaking of Bread • 10:15 - Bible classes for all ages • 11:30 - Worship and Breaking of Bread Also broadcasting Sunday services (Zoom: 81091322934 Passcode: 134738) Online meetings: Tuesday - Bible Study 7:30pm Thursday - Prayer Meeting 7:30pm For details or help: Jason 07795560990 QUAKERS (RELIGIOUS SOCIETY OF FRIENDS), Bedminster Quaker Meeting House, Wedmore Wale,

BS3 5HX Meeting for Worship, every Sunday at 10:30.

Further details (and Zoom code for online attenders) from the Clerk at bedminster. clerks@bristolquakers.org.uk or 07929727259 (Barney Smith, Clerk) VICTORIA PARK BAPTIST CHURCH Sylvia Avenue, Bedminster, Bristol, BS3 5DA. Join us every Sunday at 10.30am Church office: 0117 9772484 (answer phone only) Church email: victoriaparkbaptistchurch1@ gmail.com Foodbank emai: vpbc. foodbank@gmail.com Booking enquiries: bookings@ victoriapark.org.uk See our hall hire page for details (www.victoriapark.org. uk/hall-hire/)

w

Oct 14 Shaping our community, Windmill Hill City Farm Cafe,

7pm. Join us to discuss what community really means and how we can help it grow. Hear from local community activists, discuss how you can take small actions to increase community in your area and meet other local residents. This is a free event, but tickets must be booked: actiongreaterbedminster. org.uk. Light refreshments will be available.

...make space to twirl,

twist,

strut,

shout

Photo: Swing Dance Riot by ShotAway

Support the campaign at bristolbeacon.org Registered charity - no. 1140898

Got a story for South Bristol Voice? Call 07789 864769 or email news@southbristolvoice.co.uk

southbristolvoice

30

October 2021

Back Care Awareness Week - October 4-8 ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE

Do you know what causes back pain? The answer is simple

T

his Back Awareness Month we are looking at what causes back pain? The answer is simple. Stress!

Certain things might jump to your mind when you think of stress, however there are many different types of stress. Let’s break them down into the three main types.

Physical Stress This is all about how you look after your body physically. Poor posture and bad lifting techniques are obvious culprits. Lack of exercise and stretching, repetitive movements, accidents and falls, carrying your kids - the list goes on.

The biggest piece of advice I have for this type of stress is, keep movement varied and frequent. There are ideal postures we should adopt, however the worst position is the one you spent most of your time in. If you’ve been working from home during the pandemic then the amount you need to move, compared to commuting and walking around an office, is dramatically reduced. Try and move each joint in your body through its full range of movement at least twice per day.

Emotional Stress We are all affected by this one but rarely do

A classic example, how many times have you heard someone say they’ve had a stressful day at work and now they have a headache?

Although not an obvious cause, emotional stress probably causes or is involved in 80-90% of the patients we see!

What can you do? There’s a huge amount of advice about stress management available. What my patients find most helpful are taking time for yourself (‘me’ time), doing a daily gratitude journal, walks in nature and meditation.

Different things work for different people, but it’s important to find what works for you.

Charles Herbert, Bristol Chiropractor people link it to back pain. The truth is, worrying about a deadline, running around after your kids, making ends meet, having a never ending to do list all affect you physically and cause pain.

Chemical Stress This is probably the least obvious one. It’s our environment and what we put into our body.

We all know ‘we are what we eat’ and it’s true.

Our cells are changing constantly, millions of cells per minute. So if you put crap in, you get crap out.

A simple one to solve, eat clean home cooked food that’s as close as possible to how nature provides it (more raw, less processed).

If you have any questions about managing your back pain, please feel free to get in contact on 01179741501. We would love to help you get back on track.

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

October 2021

southbristolvoice

Back Care Awareness Week - October 4-8 ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE

Be aware of lower back pain

T

here are multiple causes such as poor mental health, poor posture/ desk set-up and involvement in sport.

Many people think that if they have back pain they should rest. In actual fact, the best thing to do is move!

Think about it. The average person spends 7-9 hours in bed, 1 hour getting ready, 2 hours commuting (driving), 8 hours at work where you’re sedentary and 1 hour cooking, meaning in a best case scenario you have 12-15 hours a day of limited activity adding up to 60-75 hours a week.

So if you’re only doing the

30 minutes of recommended activity a day, you’re only doing 2.5 hours a week.

2.5 hours of movement a week is not enough when you’re sedentary for 60-75.

The more you can collectively move throughout the day the better.

So take movement breaks at work - little and often, set time aside to stretch, go for a walk and practice relaxation techniques.

For further advice or if your back pain persists, book in with a physio for an initial assessment, treatment and a bespoke rehab program at Top To Toe Physiotherapy on 0117 329 2090.

Got a story for South Bristol Voice? Call 07789 864769 or email news@southbristolvoice.co.uk

31

Photo by Annie Spratt on Unsplash

the place for you…

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

October 2021

southbristolvoice

33

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Yoga teachers delighted to resume in-person classes Two yoga teachers are looking forward to welcoming you to their classes this autumn.

Caroline Reid and Kate Fox have more than 30 years' teaching experience between them, from regular weekly yoga classes, private tuition, to workshops, intensives and retreats around the UK and Europe. Caroline says: “It has been great supporting our student communities with online classes these last 18 months but we are both delighted to be teaching groups in person again now.”

What are the yoga classes like?

Kate and Caroline are welcoming and inclusive in their group classes.

In a calm and compassionate atmosphere, whether you are new to yoga or an experienced practitioner, you will be invited to tune in to your own body and get to know it better. You will discover a practice that gradually reorganises the body; undoing tension, improving balance and stability to help you move and breathe with more ease. We are simply returning to our natural state. There is no place here for pushing, pulling, or forcing the body. The experienced hands of your teacher will help you feel where you are straining or trying too hard and help you develop your attention towards subtle qualities and connections that support healthy movement. You will be given clear guidance, both verbally and through touch (with your permission) to help you get more comfortable in your own skin.

Each student is encouraged to embark on a journey of exploration and curiosity to get to know their own body better. There is no

Caroline Reid (left) and Kate Fox (right).

Photography: Kasia Kiliszek

‘keeping up’ with either the teacher or anyone else in the class. Both teachers keep group classes relatively small to allow space and time for individual help.

What kind of yoga is it?

Caroline and Kate teach ‘Scaravelliinspired’ yoga. Vanda Scaravelli is known for her inspirational book ‘Awakening The Spine’ with its striking photos of her, in her 80s, performing challenging yoga poses with ease. Vanda’s approach to yoga was revolutionary when her book was first published in 1999 and its influence is spreading around the world. Vanda Scaravelli gifted us freedom in our yoga

practice. She liberated us from set rules and methods, believing that when we listen intently, with a deep awareness, we become our own best teachers. By working with breath, gravity and the natural wave-like movement of the spine, we can discover an amazing balance of strength and lightness, space and ease in our bodies. Even into old age you can discover long-forgotten freedom in your body and throughout your entire being. Ultimately this practice will support long-term health and keep you agile for longer.

Kate says: ” We have both found this practice so inspirational and transformational, and are

passionate about sharing the many benefits to be found from it with others.”

Where can we find you?

Kate and Caroline now offer classes both online via Zoom and in person. Bedminster, Knowle and Southville are all covered! Both teachers are based in Knowle, where you can attend one-to-one or small group lessons. Current schedules are on their websites or contact them for more details. www.carolinereidyoga.com Instagram: @carolinereidyoga www.yogawithkaty.co.uk Instagram: @katylou_fox

Got a story for South Bristol Voice? Call 07789 864769 or email news@southbristolvoice.co.uk

I

October 2021

southbristolvoice

34

The Wicked Witch of Knowle

In witch I'm up for the job

was flicking through the job section on Gumtree when I spotted a position I’d be perfect for.

It was a charity, fairly new, wanting an Administration and Publicity Officer. An Officer.

Yes I fancied being one of those. I constructed my CV. Under qualifications I put ‘loads’.

I bragged about being a Pillock of the Community, bigged up what I did for the plumbers and sent it off. A couple of weeks later an email popped into my inbox stating I’d been chosen for an interview.

That was a shock.

I was asked to produce a pre-interview letter and prepare a presentation on “how to ensure the smooth running of said organisation”. I felt sick. The letter was easy but a presentation?

Luckily, I have my friend Mrs Warm, who is very knowledgeable in the interview process.

She proofread my carefully

THE WICKED WITCH OF KNOWLE

constructed PowerPoint, tutted, and made me start again.

Finally, it was a thing of beauty.

I was ready.

The interview was going to be online. I borrowed the evil teen’s laptop and, an hour before my appointment, decided to test it out. I clicked on the Zoom link, squinting at the screen. I was immediately confronted by three faces, the interviewers. I recoiled then watched, fascinated, as they shuffled paperwork and sipped coffee. I could hear them chatting. At this point I was

displayed as a muted black box named Evil.

“Meg?” questioned one of the faces, peering straight at me.

“Maybe she’s gone for a cup of tea” said another.

In a panic, I worked out how to unmute myself and admitted that I was not Meg, that I had arrived super early for the party.

They shoved me back into the cyber waiting room where I nervously paced in my slippers.

At my allotted slot I flew through my presentation with confidence.

Then the questioning began.

“How would you deal with loose ends” said one.

“Eh?” I frowned, leaning towards the camera, filling the screen with my wrinkled up nose.

What did that mean? I muttered something about prioritising which seemed to cause some excitement. A box was obviously ticked.

Finally, they asked if I had any questions. I told them that I did but first wanted to know

what they thought of my lovingly constructed pre-interview letter?

There was some frantic tapping on keyboards while they tried to bring it up on their screens.

“It’s all one page,” stuttered one, “which I like”.

My eyes narrowed, I sat back in my chair, giving them a view of my untidy office. They hadn’t read it. I was outraged. I whizzed through my meticulously prepared questions, not listening to the answers as my mind was a vat of churning hissing snakes.

I had been told the interview would last 45 minutes and I was done in 25. Game over. It was a disaster.

They did send me a nice rejection email the following evening and asked if I would like feedback.

I’d had a few glasses of wine, so I did the thing that you should never do. I immediately fired off a reply giving them feedback on their performance as interviewers.

They didn’t deserve me.

Will Writing Will Writing & & Estate Planning Estate Planning protect your your family’sfamily’s inheritance A Will Willlets letsyouyou protect inheritance and decide youryour assets are shared out – if out you – if you and decidehow how assets are shared don’t make a Will, the law says who gets what. don’t make a Will, the law says who gets what.

WEB-CAM

WILLS

Please feel free Please feel free to call us during call on: us during officetohours

hours 0117office 952 0698

on:

or email 0117 952 0698 info@elm-online.co.uk www.elm-online.co.uk

or email

info@elm-online.co.uk We have teamteam of We havea aBristol-based Bristol-based of trained trained Willawriting consultants whocan now We have Bristol-based team Will writing consultants who Mirror www.elm-online.co.uk Wills Single Or can now provide the same personal of trained Will writing consultants provide the same personal face to face face to face meetings via our Couples FROM £99.00 who provide a and, home visiting serviceand, meetings via our Web-Cam-Wills Web-Cam-Wills subject to health and safety, canto take your instructions in can the still subject safety, we and wehealth can stilland provide a homevisiting service to take your instructions in We have ayour Bristol-based team comfort own home. provide aofhomeMirror Wills Single Or the comfort of your own visiting service to writing takehome.consultants of trained Will Couples FROM £99.00 your instructions the visiting Making Plansservice for Uncertain Futures who provideSecure a inhome comfort of your own and can take your instructions in the home.

Will Writing & Estate Planning

comfort of your own home.

A Will lets you protect your family’s inheritance and decide how your assets are shared out – if you don’t make a Will, the law says who gets what.

Making Secure Plans for Uncertain Futures Please feel free to call us during To advertise, contact sales@southbristolvoice.co.uk or Ruth on 07590 527664 office hours on: 0117 952 0698

October 2021

southbristolvoice

ADVICE FROM A PHARMACIST

35

with Ade Williams

Do you 'know your numbers'? They could save your life

D

o you Know the Numbers that can SAVE YOUR LIFE and prevent PERMANENT DISABILITY? We are all familiar with BP machines and the cuffs they use, but what is blood pressure?

Blood goes around our body using a network of vessels like pipes. The force in this pipe is measured to find out systolic pressure (top number)– the pressure when your heart pushes blood out and diastolic pressure (bottom number) – the pressure when your heart rests between beats.

Blood pressure (BP) measures the force that your heart uses to pump blood around your body. An ideal blood pressure is under 120/80mmHg Why is it important? Untreated high blood pressure puts extra strain on your heart and other organs, damaging them.

High blood pressure increases the risk of a stroke - a serious, life-threatening medical condition when the blood supply to part of the brain is cut off.

Heart attacks happen when the blood supply

Ade Williams of Bedminster Pharmacy discusses how pharmacies can help people with a variety of health conditions, and ease pressure on the NHS

to part of the heart is cut off because a blood clot blocks it.

Every day in the UK, 350 people have a stroke or heart attack that could have been prevented.

The number of strokes in younger adults is also on the increase.

Kidneys can get damaged by high blood pressure, with the resulting damaged kidney further raising your blood pressure.

Looking for a solicitor?

Keep it local Barcan+Kirby is your local law firm, with offices in Bedminster, Bishopston, Kingswood, Clifton, Thornbury and central Bristol.

A type of dementia called vascular dementia is caused by the damage of raised BP to blood vessels leading to the brain.

High blood pressure can damage your blood vessels and restrict blood flow to the penis, leading to erectile problems.

The good news is that high blood pressure can be easily treated and managed safely.

The bad news; it has no specific symptoms, so it is a silent killer.

We know 6 million people have high blood pressure and don’t even know it.

Addressing unhealthy lifestyle habits, such as smoking, drinking too much alcohol, being overweight, and not exercising enough, can lower raised BP. Still, we know family history with raised BP, being of black African or black Caribbean descent as well as particular jobs, work patterns, and even postcodes increase your risk.

All adults over 40 are advised to have their blood pressure checked at least every five years.

With pandemic health measures limiting usual opportunities to measure blood pressure, it is worth considering a home BP machine.

Many also pick up an irregular heartbeat.

Bedminster Pharmacy team are happy to offer advice and guidance.

Check out #KnowYourNumbers today.

Award winning family-run independent pharmacy

• Advice • NHS prescriptions • Living aid products

Ask us about:

We’re specialists in:

+ + + + + Our friendly legal experts are + always on hand to provide + practical, common sense + advice at a fair price. + + If you’re looking for help with + any of the services here, we’re + + the people to talk to.

Buying and Selling Family Law Divorce + Separation Wills, Trusts and Probate Powers of Attorney Dispute Resolution Employment Corporate + Commercial Commercial Property Medical Negligence Personal Injury Court of Protection Notary

• healthy living • medication • minor ailments • incontinence • mobility

FREE NHS FLU VACCINATIONS Available from September. Free for: • Anyone over 50 65

• Adults at extra risk from flu, eg with heart or respiratory disease • Pregnant women

You have our best – every time

barcankirby.co.uk

0117 905 7088

hello@barcankirby.co.uk

@barcankirby

barcankirby

This firm is authorised and regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority. No: 568743.

Follow us on Twitter: @bedminsterpharm

bedminster pharmacy Cannon Street, Bedminster, BS3 1BN Open 9am-6pm Mon-Fri, 9am-1pm Sat

0117 985 3388

Got a story for South Bristol Voice? Call 07789 864769 or email news@southbristolvoice.co.uk

October 2021

southbristolvoice

36

The Theatre and Entertainment Luvver Spook-tacular entertainment this October

By Jacqui Ham, Acting Out pooky greetings from The Theatre and Entertainment Luvver. With dark nights, Halloween, and another school holiday – it doesn’t get scarier than that!

What is in my cauldron of delights this month?

Darkness, revenge, and passion are abound at Bristol Old Vic with Wise Children’s Wuthering Heights, 11th October – 6th November: bristololdvic.org.uk/ whats-on/wuthering-heights And if you are looking for some light relief in all this darkness, tickets are still available for the hilarious Ellie Taylor with her 'Don’t Got This' Comedy Box show at the Tobacco Factory, 30th October: tobaccofactorytheatres. com/shows/ellie-taylor-dont-gotthis/ For the kids, the Redgrave Theatre has the enchanting Stickman, 17-19th October, and in half term, the brilliant world record breaking beatboxer, S K Shlomo is back to entertain you with his world of funny sounds,

S

Thought of the Month ... With Frazer Welch, Victoria Park Baptist Church

M brilliant noises, and cool music, 23rd October: redgravetheatre.com/ events/ And finally at the Hippodrome there is the fabulous Everybody’s Talking About Jamie,19-23rd October, but hurry ... not many tickets left: www.atgtickets.com/ shows/everybodys-talking-aboutjamie/bristol-hippodrome/ Top pick: Wuthering Heights – Bristol Old Vic, 11th October – 6th November.

y name is Frazer, I am 22, and have just started working at Victoria Park Baptist Church as the minister-intraining.

I was born in Shropshire, but have grown up in Cheltenham living in Hesters Way. This summer I graduated from Nottingham Trent University, after three years of studying History and Politics, and moved to south Bristol at the end of August.

My family are from Bristol, and so it feels great to be here. My

Joe Hawkins trading as DTS Bristol LTD of 34 St. James Street, Mangotsfield, BS16 9HE is applying for a licence to use transport parking, Iron Mould Lane, Brislington, BS4 5SA as an operating centre for 3 goods vehicles and 3 trailers.

Owners or occupiers of land (including buildings) near the operating centre(s) who believe that their use or enjoyment of that land would be affected, should make written representations to the Traffic Commissioner at Hillcrest House, 386 Harehills Lane, Leeds, LS9 6NF, stating their reasons, within 21 days of this notice. Representors must at the same time send a copy of their representations to the applicant at the address given at the top of this notice. A Guide to Making Representations is available from the Traffic Commissioner’s office

PROPERTY MAINTENANCE

1ST ROOFING COMPANY All types of roofs undertaken Tile

l

GRP

l

Asphalt

l

Guttering, Fascias and Soffits

FULLY INSURED

Tel: 07817 698436

l

07805 052447

Email:tooloud58@outlook.com

INTERIOR & EXTERIOR PAINTING FENCING • PATIOS • LANDSCAPING LOG STORES • GUTTERING PROPERTY MAINTENANCE• FASCIAS INTERIOR•&DOORS EXTERIOR•PAINTING ELECTRICS PLUMBING FENCING • PATIOS • LANDSCAPING • SKIRTING BOARDS LOG STORES • GUTTERING • FASCIAS ELECTRICS • DOORS • PLUMBING • SKIRTING BOARDS

Free Quotations

PROPERTY MAINTENANCE INTERIOR & EXTERIOR PAINTING FENCING • PATIOS • LANDSCAPING LOG STORES • GUTTERING • FASCIAS ELECTRICS • DOORS • PLUMBING • SKIRTING BOARDS

Free Quotations

RELIABLE, FAST, FRIENDLY SERVICE RELIABLE, FRIENDLY SERVICE ContactFAST, Jeremy Abbott on Contact Jeremy Abbott on

0117 0117 909909 5989 07584 428056 5989 / / 07584 428056 PROPERTY MAINTENANCE

INTERIOR & EXTERIOR PAINTING To advertise, contactFENCING sales@southbristolvoice.co.uk • PATIOS • LANDSCAPING LOG STORES • GUTTERING • FASCIAS ELECTRICS • DOORS • PLUMBING RELIABLE, FAST, FRIENDLY SERVICE

Free Quotations

Grandma even taught around the corner from church at Victoria Park Primary School in the late 50s/early 60s, so I really do feel connected.

I'm excited to see what lies ahead for our church over the coming years.

There are lots of ideas in the pipeline, ranging from starting a Saturday morning breakfast club for kids, to helping support the amazing work done by volunteers at the Foodbank. We're hoping to see more community engagement, building relationships with those in the area, while providing a space for anyone to come along and join us as they are.

Ultimately, we want to love our community, reflecting the way we believe Jesus loves us. We'd love to have a chat, so please feel free to get in touch: victoriapark.org.uk/

abbottpropertymaintenance@hotmail.com abbottpropertymaintenance@hotmail.com

or Ruth on 07590 527664

October 2021

southbristolvoice

37

Letters to the Editor

Email letters to news@southbristolvoice.co.uk or post to 111 Broadfield Rd, Knowle, BS4 2UX. Please keep letters brief, no more than 250 words - we reserve the right to edit letters

How you can help reverse the decline of our local wildlife The BS3 Wildlife Group has been invited to join a new, cross-city working group which will monitor various types of wildlife in Bristol. This is a product of the Ecological Emergency announced in 2020. The new working group includes experts from Avon Wildlife Trust, Bristol Parks and the two universities as well as more grassroots, community organisations such as the Wildlife Groups.

As with the rest of the planet, many once common animals including hedgehogs, otters, green finches, swifts and starlings as well as bees and other insects are very much less numerous than in the past.

Some face extinction, at least in the UK. The working group will seek to establish information about current numbers and where they are to be found within and close to Bristol and over the next few years see if they are increasing or continuing to decline.

At the same time, Bristol's human population will be urged to improve habitats by wildlife gardening, introducing changes in parks and allotments and other measures.

The Environment Agency and the Water Companies will be looking at how our streams and ponds might be turned from polluted ditches, where only the most hardy creatures can survive, into nature rich rivers and lively lakes.

It's hoped that other towns and cities will follow Bristol's example and upgrade rather than downgrade their natural environment. This is the first time that so many agencies have come together for such a purpose, but it can't just be left to the big organisations.

Small actions by many thousands of Bristolians can make a real difference, too. To find out more and, especially, how you and your family can help to reverse the decline, wherever you live, contact the BS3 Wildlife Group on mywildbedminster@virginmedia.com.

Ben Barker, Secretary, BS3 Wildlife Group

Mayor must take a stance against Bristol's airport expansion Marvin Rees, the elected Mayor of Bristol, once again uses your columns to position himself as a climate change leader. His second paragraph opens with a boast about how Bristol led the way across the country by declaring a climate emergency. He never mentions that this initiative came from the Green councillors, just as he has never acknowledged the substantial support across the city for the Greens at the last local elections, securing as many council seats as Labour. Instead he says the Greens are not to be trusted and he refuses to work with them in his Cabinet.

But much worse than that, the Mayor has still not made a public objection to the expansion of Bristol Airport. While the rather powerless council has declared its opposition, the Mayor has never rescinded his enthusiastic support for expansion (Up, up and Away!). It does not take a deep understanding of climate

change to realise that increasing air traffic is wholly incompatible with the urgent need to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. But this is a Mayor who once claimed that saving the planet was 'a luxury'.

This, fortunately, is not the position of the whole of the Labour Party. It is tremendously encouraging to read that the new Metro Mayor, Dan Norris, is adamantly opposed to the airport's expansion. Large numbers of Bristol residents of all political persuasions feel the same.

If your readers agree, please let the Mayor know that you want him to represent you and publicly oppose the airport expansion, by emailing him at mayor@bristol.gov.uk.

Deb Joffe, former Green councillor for Windmill Hill

a f fo r da b le

THE BRISTOL SOUTH SPACE PROGRAM Freightliner Terminal, South Liberty Lane, Bristol BS3 2SU

You can also find our award-winning self-storage in: Avonmouth, Bridgwater Swindon, Tewkesbury and Weston Our locations comply with current COVID-19 guidance

Got a story for South Bristol Voice? Call 07789 864769 or email news@southbristolvoice.co.uk

October 2021

38

southbristolvoice

nLOCAL SERVICES

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

AERIALS

BUILDER

CLEANING SERVICES

Semi-retired builder www.theaerialman.co.uk

• Digital Aerials • Fully Guaranteed • Repairs • Satellites • Free Quotes • OAP Discount • Additional TV Points • Humax Recorders Affordable Prices - Reliable Service

0117 967 9028

CLEARANCE SERVICES

MOTION PROPERTY MAINTENANCE • • • • • •

45 years experience Roofing Plumbing Carpentry Alterations Free estimates

   

07500 692206

email motionmain@gmail.com

 

ELECTRICIAN

Griffin Electrical Established 1984

Garden, Clearance House, Garden, Office Clearance House,House, Garden, OfficeOffice Clearance

House, Garden, Office Clearance - all Plus all other YOUR TRUSTED LOCAL ELECTRICIAN Plus All Your Other Waste Removal Needs too!

House, Garden, Office Clearance -- Plus other House, Garden, Office Clearance Plus all other Plus Your Other Waste Removal Needs too!

Plus All All Your Other Waste Removal Needs too!

On-average Average cheaper than a skip.

On cheaper than aa skip.

OnAverage cheaper than skip. removal On average cheaper waste removal On cheaper than aa skip wastewaste removal -Average On average cheaper than than skipa skip

07592 003 Tel: 07592 506 003003 Tel: 07592 506 Tel:Tel: 07592 506506 003 1/4 Load 1/4 £89 1/4 Load Load £89 £89 Half Half £139 Half Load Load Load £139£139

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

3/4 Load 3/4 £179 3/4 Load Load £179£179

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

Full Load Full £199 Full Load Load £199£199

01275 832830 07831 534766

www.junkmonsters.co.uk www.junkmonsters.co.uk www.junkmonsters.co.uk

FLOOR SANDING

NICEIC Approved Contractor Member of Checkatrade.com

GARDENING SERVICES

GARDENING SERVICES

Good Grounds & Gardens

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 ponds Call to discuss 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 GARDENING SERVICES

Talk to us about advertising your trade across South Bristol.

Call Ruth on 07590 527664

Four Seasons Gardening Services

D. ATTWELL 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

LOCKSMITHS

NIGHT & DAY

LOCKSMITHS 24HRS Contact Dave Staynings

Give your garden some TLC and call us today! No job too small!

Call 07905 364353 for a free quote

0117 925 6828 Mobile:

07765 208690

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

October 2021

southbristolvoice

nLOCAL SERVICES

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

PEST CONTROL

OVEN CLEANING SERVICES

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 PORTRAITS

RENOVATIONS

ROOFING SERVICES

SPRAY PAINTING FOR CARS

39

PLUMBING

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.

ROOFING SERVICES

SINGLEPLY FLAT ROOFING SPECIALISTS

PLEASE CALL FOR A FREE QUOTE TODAY

07922804129 email: info@bs3roofing.co.uk

TREE SURGEON

Tiling/Slating Lead work Zinc roofs Copper roofs Sheeting & cladding Timber cladding Timber frame work Felt | Liquid |GRP Green roofs PVC guttering & fascia Roof maintenance Velux windows Chimney repairs Render Roof surveys

l Accident repairs, car body repair & spraying in Bristol l 30 years’ experience l Private or trade l Contribution to the excess on all insurance claims (max £200) Tel: 07730 100 388 E: Sprayline01@hotmail.com W: www.sprayline.co.uk Open: Mon-Fri: 10am-6pm

WINDOW CLEANING

WINDOW SERVICES

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

Got a story for South Bristol Voice? Call 07789 864769 or email news@southbristolvoice.co.uk