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May 2021 • Issue 22

BUSINESS P8, P14 | SPORT P16-17, P26 | SCHOOLS P29 | DIRECTORY P30

BRIDGE MAY NOT REOPEN UNTIL DECEMBER…

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and once it does, much of Gipsy Patch Lane will be ONE-WAY ONLY for up to a year, with side roads blocked off Pages 4 & 5

PLUS , IN YOUR 32-PAGE STOKE GIFFORD MAGAZINE

Local elections on 6th May

Pumas over the Stokes

Profiles of the candidates

Where are they landing?

Pages 12 & 20

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l 84-year-old’s walkathon for Alzheimer’s charity l More wildflower beds coming to the Stokes l Popular post office now under new management l £250k of repairs agreed for two local schools l Officers recommend approval of Aldi, Costa and Premier Inn scheme l Lockdown easing: Scouts complete expedition l £60k boost for planned new community centre l Grant’s double marathon for local football charity l Honey bees rescued from giant nest in chimney l Little Stoke Scouts use Covid downtime to improve headquarters l Children return to school with “amazing attitude”

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News

84-year-old’s walkathon for Alzheimer’s charity Contact Us Editor: Stephen Horton info@stokegiffordjournal.co.uk 01454 300 400 83 Snowberry Close Bradley Stoke Bristol BS32 8GB

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About the Stoke Gifford Journal The Stoke Gifford Journal magazine is published by North Bristol Press, a trading name of Snowberry Media Ltd; company number 8451178 (registered in England and Wales); registered office: 33 The Courtyard, Woodlands, Bradley Stoke, Bristol, BS32 4NQ. Our other publications include the Bradley Stoke Journal magazine and website, the Patchway Journal website and the Filton Journal website. North Bristol Press is independent of any other media company or network operating in the Bristol area. We accept no responsibility for anything stated by advertisers, who are themselves responsible for complying with all relevant legislation. Opinions expressed are not necessarily those of the editor or article author. © North Bristol Press 2021. Content published in our magazines or on our websites may not be reproduced in any form without our express written permission.

Have your say: Reader letters Do you have strong views about something that’s happening in or around Stoke Gifford? Want to pass comment on something you’ve read in the Journal or another local publication? Send your letter to letters@stokegiffordjournal.co.uk or post it to: Reader Letters, Stoke Gifford Journal, 83 Snowberry Close, Bradley Stoke, Bristol BS32 8GB Please include a phone number, in case we need to contact you. Our next issue: June 2021

• Advertising copy deadline: Friday 21st May • Article copy deadline: Monday 24th May • The magazine will be distributed from Saturday 5th June Subject to change due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic. Please check www.stokegiffordjournal.co.uk/magazine for latest information.

Joan walking in Little Stoke Park with brother David and nephew Kevin

n 84-year-old Bradley Stoke pensioner has taken on a month-long challenge to walk three times a week around Little Stoke Park to raise funds for Alzheimer’s Society. Joan Osmond, who herself lives with the early signs of Alzheimer’s and hardly left home during the first year of the coronavirus pandemic, has been encouraged to get active again by son Philip, with the support of several other family members. Joan was one of the first residents of the new town in the early 1980s and prior to retirement ran a delicatessen and fruit & veg business. Philip said: “The last year has been very tough for our folks, as it has for thousands of families.

Sadly, Mum has spent much of the past year in bed.” With Joan having received both her Covid-19 vaccine doses and social mixing restrictions being relaxed, Philip felt it was now safe to start walking with his mum and set her a challenge. To his delight, she said, “Yes, let’s do it,” and he wasted no time in ordering new walking clothes and boots for her, which she was delighted to receive. The walkathon’s initial sponsorship target of £750 was reached by 8th April, and the amount raised is now well over £1,000, heading for a new target of £1,500 by the end of April. To support Joan’s chosen charity, search for ‘Joan Osmond April Walkathon for Alzheimer’s Society’.

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News

More roadside wildflower beds for the Stokes

journey along either of the two main routes through Bradley Stoke could become a colourful experience this summer if a plan to significantly expand the number of roadside wildflower meadows comes to fruition. Wildflower strips totalling around 150m in length were created along Brook Way (either side of the Saxon Way junction) in 2018 and have resulted in much-appreciated displays of blooms in the last two summers. New wildflower strips being created alongside The latest scheme will see wildflower Bradley Stoke Way, south of the leisure centre strips created along a 200m-long section of grassland alongside Bradley Stoke Way, in A spokesperson for South Gloucestershire front of homes in Champs Sur Marne (just Council said: “We are committed to improving south of the leisure centre). The existing biodiversity and managing our land in a way wildflower strips along Brook Way are also that supports habitats and connectivity for being extended southwards by around 150m, wildlife and pollinators and helps to make our almost as far as Merryweather Close. communities attractive and pleasant places The meadows will consist of colourful for our residents. Over the last few years perennial flowers such as oxeye daisy, we have carried out trials to adopt a more knapweed, birdsfoot trefoil, cowslips and natural approach to our verge management buttercups. There will also be some annual which supports the flora and fauna while plants sown to give an even more colourful also ensuring visibility at road junctions is display in the first couple of years. They will maintained and safe for road users.” be cut in late summer and the grass removed, ● To comment as the meadows develop, WB Generic more AW.qxp_Layout 12:38 Page 3 to encourage wild flowers1 to09/02/2021 grow. email communityspaces@southglos.gov.uk

Brook Way, Bradley Stoke (May 2019)

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News

Bridge reopening further delayed and one-way system announced

otorists in the Stokes have been dealt a double blow with the news that the road under the Gipsy Patch Lane railway bridge may now not open until December, and once it does, most of Gipsy Patch Lane will be restricted to one-way traffic flow for many months thereafter. Confirmation of the reopening delay comes after we revealed in our March/April issue that engineers had decided a larger than originally anticipated pumping station and drainage system is needed to prevent flooding of the lowered highway under the bridge. Due to this upgrade in the drainage system, Network Rail has applied for a renewed Temporary Traffic Regulation

Order (TTRO) allowing it to keep Gipsy Patch Lane fully closed to traffic at the railway bridge for a further 18 months, although it states that it is anticipated that the closure extension will last seven months (from mid-May), suggesting a revised reopening date of mid-December. However, South Glos Council says it is working closely with Network Rail and its contractor Alun Griffiths Ltd “to understand if there is opportunity for a partial reopening of Gipsy Patch Lane one-way in the autumn, which will allow for some traffic under the bridge but maintain sufficient space for work to continue safely”. It adds that any such reopening of the road under the bridge would need to be co-ordinated with the road widening works

Huge drainage pipes being installed west of the bridge (Rolls-Royce side)

on Gipsy Patch Lane, which are due to commence either side of the railway bridge during the summer. Passage under the bridge for pedestrians and dismounted cyclists will continue to be available throughout.

One-way system

Road widening is needed on Gipsy Patch Lane further to the east and west of the railway

bridge to enable the creation of new bus lanes. During these construction activities significant traffic management measures will be needed in order to allow safe and efficient working. In particular, once the road under the bridge is partially reopened, be it in autumn or December, a westbound one-way system will be installed along a 775m stretch of Gipsy Patch Lane extending from the junction

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Gipsy Patch Lane Traffic Management

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Side road restrictions while the westbound one-way system is in operation along Gipsy Patch Lane following the partial reopening of the road under the bridge

with Little Stoke Lane east of the bridge to the mini-roundabout at Rolls-Royce west of the bridge. This will mean that traffic will only be able to travel along this section of Gipsy Patch Lane towards the A38 junction. Traffic needing to travel eastbound will need to use the existing diversion route via the A38, Bradley Stoke Way and Winterbourne Road (although it is likely that motorists with local knowledge will choose shorter alternatives). For safety reasons, the council is insisting that side roads to the east (Little Stoke side) of the railway bridge that fall within the one-way system will to be closed at their junctions with Gipsy Patch Lane (see map above). A council spokesperson said: “Closing these side roads is considered the safest approach once the one-way system is

installed to prevent drivers potentially turning the wrong way out of these junctions.” West of the bridge, access to Pegasus Park (home to Tyres Direct, Stagecoach and Strenco) will be retained, but traffic entering and exiting will need to comply with the one-way system.

Side road restrictions while the one-way system is in force For safety reasons, all side junctions to the east of the railway bridge on Gipsy Patch Lane which fall within the one-way system will need to be closed to all traffic while the one-way system is in place. This will include Station Road, Gifford Crescent, the service road, Smithcourt Drive and Bush Avenue. Motorists needing to access properties in Bush Avenue and Smithcourt Drive, or the Stokers Pub will need to use the eastern access to Bush Avenue, nearest to Little Stoke Lane. They will need to exit the same way.

Bus stop work

The bus stop upgrade work being currently carried out on Gipsy Patch Lane is reported to be on schedule to complete in early May. At this point, the current westbound road closure will be removed. However, the council warns that further traffic management measures, such as temporary traffic lights, will be required on Gipsy Patch Lane this spring/summer in advance of the planned partial reopening of the bridge. ● southglos.gov.uk/CPmetrobus

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News

he frequency at which military helicopter are seen flying low over Stoke Gifford and the surrounding areas seems to have increased over the last year or so, although this may be because we have had more opportunities to spot them as a consequence of the Covid-19 ‘Stay home’ guidance. But where are the helicopters going and what are they up to? There has been plenty of speculation on local Facebook groups, but reliable information is scarce, so we thought it was time for the Journal to investigate. The distinctive pulsating sound of tandem-rotor Chinook helicopters has been heard regularly over the Stokes for

several years, usually travelling east-west once a week at normal operational height along the M4 corridor. But the increased activity seen in recent months involves a different type of helicopter, the Puma, often operating at a very low level. Online chatter has suggested that these helicopters are landing at Mod Abbey Wood or the Nightingale Hospital at UWE, but investigation by the Journal has confirmed that they are in fact landing on the sports field at the Mile Straight Sports & Social Club on New Road, Stoke Gifford, roughly mid-way between the Travis Perkins building supplies depot and the Aviva Centre. Information shared by the RAF (see panel below) confirms that

Background information provided by the RAF The Mile Straight Sports & Social Club sports field is an official Helicopter Landing Site (HLS) and has been for many years. The RAF, and in this case, Puma helicopter crews, use a variety of HLSs around the whole of the UK for training and vary their routes and training locations to maximise training benefit; for example, recently our Pumas have been training in the Bristol, South Wales, Birmingham and the Manchester areas. This site and the multitude of others used, enable RAF crews to train in urban environments in preparation for operations in places such as Afghanistan where the Puma Force provides support to the ongoing NATO RESOLUTE SUPPORT mission. The RAF Helicopter force is also on high readiness to deploy around the world, in support of operations such as the hurricane relief effort in the Caribbean in 2017 (Op RUMAN) and the ongoing effort to tackle the Covid-19 pandemic in the UK (Op RESCRIPT). Utilising HLSs, such as this one in Stoke Gifford, forms an invaluable part of this training for the Puma Force. Where possible, we notify local communities of training activity that may be taking place in areas that are not used to seeing such activity, as per our recent social media posts. However, we will not offer full details for security purposes.

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Explained: Military helicopters over the Stokes Continued from facing page

the sports field is a registered helicopter landing site (HLS) and has been for many years. A source connected with the sports club has confirmed that military helicopter landings at the site have become more frequent since the start of the Covid-19 pandemic, initially in connection with the construction of a Nightingale Hospital on the nearby UWE Frenchay Campus. Eyewitnesses say that in recent times there have been roughly two landings a month, some of them taking place at night. A video shared with the Journal shows a helicopter taking off from the site, from a point very close to homes in the adjacent Cobb Court, in the dark at around 7pm on 9th March. Other videos and photos show a daytime landing of two helicopters on 24th March. The 24th March event matches

Left: An RAF Puma helicopter on the sportsfield at The Mile Straight on 24th March. Right: Pumas in flight (stock image)

a post from that day on the Facebook page of RAF Benson: “Two Puma helicopters are expected to be operating in the Bristol and Cardiff areas this afternoon and into this evening. These flights are part of the essential training for our crews before they deploy on Operation TORAL in Afghanistan.” An RAF spokesperson confirmed: “RAF Puma

helicopters have recently been operating at the landing site [at the Mile Straight club]. These essential operational training events being designed to ensure that our crews continue to be ready for global operations.” The spokesperson added “It is possible that some landings were associated with the Nightingale Hospital during the early stages of Covid, however, those by RAF

Benson aircraft in recent months have not been related to this.” “As this location is an HLS next to an MoD facility it is likely that use of the site by our assets will continue; however, we are unable to say how often this particular HLS is likely to be used as it depends on numerous factors.” ● Ministry of Defence Low Flying Complaints and Enquiries telephone number: 01780 417558

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May 2021

Business

Popular post office now under new management

he post office in Ratcliffe Drive, Stoke Gifford is now under new management after being operated under the direct control of the Jhoots pharmacy group for almost five years. A small celebration on Thursday 15th April marked the takeover of the popular facility by members of the Azad family, who have many years of experience within the Post Office business, working as clerks, managers and trainers. Arsalaan (Sid) Azad has taken on the role of postmaster, with his mother Faiqa acting as post office manager, supported by other family members as and when needed. Faiqa’s previous role with the Post Office saw her helping postmasters transfer into new offices, so she is well qualified for her new position. Post office assistant Hazel Phelps retains her role, with Sid

saying of her: “Hazel’s experience shines through in everything she does and customers have adored her throughout her lengthy service.” New postmaster Sid told the Journal: “My business and sales experience ranges from running a travel business, which for obvious reasons I have had to move on from, to being a financial broker in the commercial sector. I spent the majority of my youth working in retail so understand the importance of customer service and providing true value to the community.” Opening hours are unchanged and services offered from the post office now include life insurance, travel insurance and money exchange. The retail side is being bolstered with convenient goods for customers including stationery, toys and gift cards. Sid commented: “We are looking to grow a strong

Stoke Gifford councillor Brian Allinson (right) cuts a ribbon to mark the transfer of the business, in the presence of Faiqa Azad and Arsalaan Azad

relationship amongst all in the area with our post office plus the retail side being able to provide

products to locals which are in demand. Just ask and we’ll see if we can source it for you!”

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News

Maintenance work costed at £250k programmed for two local schools

rimary schools in Stoke Gifford and Little Stoke are to benefit from a £2.6 million package of maintenance and improvement works that has recently been agreed by South Gloucestershire Council. St Michael’s Primary School is to receive investment of £150,000 for re-roofing while Little Stoke Primary School will see £100,000 spent on replacing high-level windowsills in the Key Stage 1 hall, and flat roof repairs. The latest tranche of funding comes as part of a record £78 million capital investment to build new and upgrade existing school buildings across the local authority area. A key aspect of the works, which range from reroofing and replacing windows to boiler works and rewiring, is to improve energy efficiency of school buildings, lowering running costs for schools whilst helping to deliver on the council’s climate emergency goals. Welcoming the announcement, Cllr Erica Williams, Cabinet member for education, skills and

employment, said: “Improving educational standards in South Gloucestershire is our top priority as local Conservatives and we want to make sure that our pupils have the best school facilities available that we are able to provide. I am delighted that we are in a position to continue our record investments into delivering new and improving existing school buildings and look forward to seeing this latest programme of works completed.” Cllrs Brian Allinson, Ernie Brown and Keith Cranney, who represent Stoke Gifford, said: “It is fantastic to see this much needed investment for St Michael’s and Little Stoke primary schools. As a council we have a duty to ensure our communities have fit-forpurpose facilities and we hope these improvements will have a positive impact on the learning of local children.” The recently announced programme of maintenance works will be carried out during the 2021/22 financial year.

TORY

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LABOUR just behind

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Lockdown easing allows OSR Scouts to complete expedition By Andrew Phelps, leader, 1st Stoke Gifford Scouts he easing of coronavirus lockdown restrictions from late March has allowed four Stoke Gifford Scouts to finally complete an expedition to satisfy one of the requirements of the Chief Scout’s Gold Award. During lockdown, the Scouts from the Old School Rooms (OSR) troop spent time on Zoom videoconferencing calls planning and organising their two-day expedition as they couldn’t use the usual expedition routes due to lockdown restrictions meaning no camping was allowed. However, a change in the regulations from government, the National Youth Agency and the Scout Association meant that we could now hold an outdoor activity, so the expedition was on! Friday 2nd April 2021 was Day One and the four Scouts met at the start point, which was Aust Services car park, at midday. The leaders checked equipment, issued tents, first

aid kits, maps, compasses and hi-vis jackets & rucksack covers. Mobile telephone numbers were recorded in case of emergencies and, after the briefing, the Scouts walked off out of the service area and out of sight. Then came the leaders’ risk assessment and briefing, a quick chat and off they went shadowing the Scouts for safety – but at a distance so as not to offer any assistance unless in an emergency. Four checkpoints had to be visited during the hike, leading the Scouts to walk through Olveston, Tockington, Almondsbury, Bradley Stoke and back to Stoke Gifford, stopping at the Old School Rooms. The Scouts were in high spirits and they made each checkpoint ahead of time, finally finishing the day 25 minutes ahead of time. They then had to get home, put up their tents, cook a meal and then sleep out during a cold night. They started Day Two (Saturday 3rd April) at 9am in

Nearing the finish of the two-day expedition at The Green, Stoke Gifford

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Setting off from check point 1 at Warmley Waiting Room Café

Start of Day 2 at Bitton Railway station. L-r: Daniel, Maya, Alfie and Emily.

the car park at Bitton Railway Station where a quick check was made that they still had their equipment, as well as a medical check, and after a quick briefing they were off again. There were some sore shoulders and feet from carrying all their kit, but

spirits were again high, coupled with a sense of excitement. The first checkpoint was at Warmley Waiting Room Café, where one of the leaders had a breakfast baguette (it would be rude not to). The Scouts were again followed by leaders and

met by a support vehicle at checkpoints to grab snacks, refill water bottles and have a quick rest break before continuing the hike. The second day was chilly at the first, but the sun soon burnt through the clouds and it became a glorious day. The Scouts walked along the Bristol to Bath cycle track through Warmley and Emersons Green, then along the A4174 footpath past Downend,

Frenchay and into Hambrook. They then came up Hambrook Lane and into Stoke Gifford where they finished at the Old School Rooms, again slightly ahead of time. What a great achievement by all four; Emily, Alfie, Dan and Maya who were all glad to get their rucksacks off and wait for their parents to turn up and take them home for a well-deserved rest and feet up.

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News

West of England ‘metro mayor’ election

Dan Norris, Labour

Jerome Thomas, Green Party

The Regional Mayor leads the West of England Combined Authority and makes decisions on issues that impact people living and working across the region, including, transport, homes, business, jobs and the economy. What is your background and relevant experience? Dan Norris: I’m West of England through and through. I went to school here and have lived and worked locally all my life as an NSPCC-trained child protection officer, an MP and Environment Minister. When I was MP, my constituency had the lowest unemployment in the UK. I’ve run my own businesses and I’m also a champion for charities that help children and disabled people. I’m hugely proud of, and ambitious for, our area. Jerome Thomas: I’ve had a long career running a business specialising in safety and I’ve been a Bristol Councillor for six years, so I know how business and government work. I’ve listened to the experts on climate change and I recognise we need a realistic plan based on a green economy which delivers homes and jobs for everyone. That’s why we’ve drawn up the Green New Deal for the West of England. Samuel Williams: I grew up locally, in a single parent home, with an English mother and Jamaican father. I am a product of the community that helped raised me and I owe it a great debt. As a businessman, I have a track record of creating jobs and working with charities to help get people back on their feet. I’ve delivered big projects with big budgets that have helped improve people’s lives.

Samuel Williams Conservative

Stephen Williams, Liberal Democrats

The West of England Combined Authority also leads on the recovery plan for the region, to make sure that the right support and infrastructure is in place for residents and businesses to drive the region’s recovery.

Stephen Williams: Stephen was the MP for Bristol West from 2005 to 2015. He was minister for Communities and Local Government during the Coalition government. Prior to being an MP, he was a local councillor in Bristol and on the Former Avon County Council. He worked as a professional adviser to small businesses in the West of England. He says: “As a former MP and Minister I know how to work the system to get great deals for our region.” How do you view the role of metro mayor? Dan Norris: It’s about bringing people together and making sure our area is firmly on the map: nationally and internationally. The pandemic has increased the need for effective leadership. It’s not good enough that money to support our High Streets is languishing in the bank when it’s desperately needed now. I’ll be an active and visible Metro Mayor to lead our recovery. Jerome Thomas: The Metro Mayor’s job is to put into action the steps which are possible locally, working with communities who know what is needed, and to work with national government to get the policies and resources we need to create a successful green transition in the region. We can only do so much on our own. It’s vital that we press for national policy change.

Samuel Williams: The Mayor has a central role to play as the region builds back from Covid in delivering investment to create jobs and support business, improve transport infrastructure and deliver homes in the right places. But also in bringing people across the region together to deliver projects of the scale needed to take our region forward. Stephen Williams: This role really matters to people’s everyday lives because the mayor decides where a lot of money is spent to improve buses, cycling and other ways to get around, new housing and creating new jobs. What are the key policies you would aim to implement, if elected? Dan Norris: I’ll be a jobs first Metro Mayor. I will get people back to work launching my Green Recovery Plan to create 23,000 new jobs, rejuvenate our high streets, value our key workers, double investment in affordable homes, improve public transport, tackle the climate emergency and make the West of England the bee capital of the UK. Let’s build a society where we value what’s truly important. Jerome Thomas: We need significant investment in housing, business and transport to make them fit for the future, so I will seek to free up £1bn of existing regional funds for our local economy. I will prioritise building new homes on brownfield sites, keeping our green

Find links to the websites and social media accounts of all the candidates at www. bradleystokejournal.co.uk/ elections spaces for farming and wildlife. I also want to see bus services improved substantially through partnerships with bus companies and community transport. Samuel Williams: I will invest over £100 million over the next four years to secure the recovery of our skills and business. Furthermore, I will also safeguard our economy, facilitate growth, and deliver improved skills training. I will deliver at least six new train stations and crucial rail improvements; alongside pioneering new hi-tech ‘on-demand’ transport services, as part of an overhauled regional mass transit system. I will build 140,000 affordable homes, focusing on the significant brown-field redevelopment opportunities in our towns and cities. Stephen Williams: The actions of the mayor in the next four years will help determine how far we recover from the two shocks of Brexit and Covid. My plan for a green revival includes: • Building thousands of affordable homes and council houses to the highest climate friendly standards, while protecting our green spaces • Creating new bus routes, with non-polluting buses, and new train stations to link up our cities, towns and villages • Making the West of England into a national Centre of Excellence for green technology • Planting one million trees using native tree species in new areas

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News

Supermarket, hotel & drive-through scheme recommended for approval

Aerial view of phase 1, showing ‘pocket park’ between the hotel (left) and Aldi

fficers at South Glos Council (SGC) have recommended approval of a planning application for a new mixed-use development on vacant land to the rear of Sainsbury’s in Stoke Gifford. The application, from property developers Bayliss Estates Ltd, joint owners of The Mall at Cribbs Causeway, is for a supermarket, a hotel & restaurant, a drivethrough coffee shop and a fourth ‘multi-use’ building. The first three elements of the scheme are said to be pre-let to Aldi, Premier Inn and Costa respectively. The multi-use building does not currently have any pre-lettings and would most likely be constructed in a later phase, with its footprint initially being occupied by an interim ‘pocket park’. Plans submitted in April 2020 saw SGC’s planning policy department raise “significant concerns” over the type of retail space being proposed and whether “efficient use” was being made of the site. Concerns were also raised over the number of mature trees that would be felled around the perimeter of the site and the “particularly bleak” appearance of the proposed 265-space car park. Stoke Gifford Parish Council objected on the grounds that the proposed vehicular access (off the access road into Sainsbury’s)

would exacerbate congestion, also mentioning the loss of trees and number of parking bays. Revised plans submitted in February 2021 went some way to addressing the concerns raised, by retaining more of the mature trees, reducing the number of parking bays, increasing the number of trees within the car park and adding interest to the elevations of the hotel. In the light of newly submitted technical notes, SGC officers say they accept that traffic flows associated with the site “will not have a significantly detrimental impact upon the local highway network” and “will not materially increase congestion”. Officers also say they accept a retail consultant’s findings that the proposed Aldi store “would not have a significant adverse impact on any other identified [town/district] centre”. They also acknowledge that a council policy requiring more ‘comparison shopping’ (for more expensive goods bought less frequently) to be provided is out of date, due to the growth in internet shopping. In a report published on 16th April, the SGC case officer concludes that on balance, the proposals when taken as a whole, would “constitute sustainable development having regard to the National Planning Policy Framework” and recommends that permission be granted.

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May 2021

Business

Accountancy firm celebrates 30th birthday DUNKLEY’S CHARTERED ACCOUNTANTS, a multi awardwinning accountancy practice based in Woodlands Lane, Bradley Stoke, is celebrating a significant milestone this year – its 30th birthday! In April 1991, director Mike Dunkley started the business from his back bedroom with a cat for company. Thirty years on and Dunkley’s is now recognised as one of the leading independent practices in the South West. Mike comments: “This is a very special year for us as we acknowledge how far Dunkley’s has come and recognize everyone who has supported the business along the way. Dunkley’s would not be where it is today without its wonderful clients, hardworking staff, and supportive community. Thirty years in business is a significant milestone and an achievement that is worth celebrating.”

The success Dunkley’s have seen can be attributed to its forward-thinking, hands-on approach to accountancy and its constant desire to put its clients first and ensure the service they receive is second to none. This approach continues to drive the business forward and has helped Dunkley’s expand its service offering and reach to individuals and businesses across the UK. Today, Dunkley’s is far more than a local practice and instead is a leading figure in the accountancy industry. The journey the business has been on to get to where it is today, would not have been achievable without a dedicated and knowledgeable workforce. Over the last 30 years, Dunkley’s has grown from one employee to 46. The practice now has three directors, each equally invested in the business, and a management team of seven

Directors Mike Dunkley, Lisa White and Matthew Dobbins

to support Dunkley’s continual growth and development into the future. Dunkley’s has always been a supportive employer, investing in its workforce to ensure it can develop future leaders of the business. With the business continuing to move forward it is providing an opportunity for all involved to share in its success. Lisa White comments on the recent restructure: “Matthew and I have been directors of Dunkley’s for over five years and are delighted to have been given the opportunity to invest further into the business working alongside Mike. Dunkley’s has continued to show significant growth over the last few years,

and we are looking forward to building further on this success.” Dunkley’s has grown from strength to strength over the last 30 years in terms of client base, service offering and employee numbers, but what has not changed is the ethos that the business was built on. Dunkley’s continue to be the approachable, affordable, and personable practice which looks after each and every one of its clients to ensure they receive a bespoke service suited to their individual needs. For further information about Dunkley’s and its journey over the last 30 years, visit www. dunkleys.accountants

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News

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May 2021

Sport

Funding boost for planned Grant’s double marathon new community centre for local football charity

Artist’s impression of the proposed new community centre in Harry Stoke

he provision of a planned new community centre to serve up to 1,200 new homes in Harry Stoke has moved a step closer thanks to a grant of £60,000 from South Gloucestershire Council (SGC). The money, from the council’s climate emergency budget, is set to be used to improve the energy credentials of the current design of the building, with the target of achieving a Passivhaus standard. The investment comes on top of funding already secured from the main developer, Crest Nicholson, through an S106 agreement attached to the outline planning consent for the entire Harry Stoke development. Cllrs Brian Allinson, Ernie Brown and Keith Cranney, who represent Harry Stoke as part of the Stoke Gifford Ward, said: “We are delighted to see this investment is set to be made to further enhance the design of the new community centre for Harry Stoke. With our area continuing to grow, it is important that facilities like this are provided and if we can make sensible investments to improve their sustainability over the longterm then that will only be to the benefit of local people. By

improving carbon performance, it can lead to lower building running costs once open and in use by the community.” Stoke Gifford Parish Council (SGPC) previously reported that it is in discussions about taking over the running of the new community centre once it is built. A working group has been set up and regular meetings are supposed to be taking place with architects and members of the SGC design team. However, it was reported at the January meeting of SGPC’s Full Council that Crest Nicholson has recently questioned the affordability of the proposed building and is now “requesting something smaller in size and scale”. Both councils were said to be opposed to accepting any changes that do not comply with the S106 agreement. The headline specification for the new building describes the spaces and facilities required, which include a hall suitable for cultural events, separate meeting rooms, fully fitted kitchen to catering standard, manager’s office, reception area, cleaner’s cupboard, WCs and changing rooms, bin store, external space and parking.

personal trainer from Bradley Stoke is aiming to run 52 miles in a single day to raise funds for a local charity set up to honour the memory of two local footballers. Grant Rees will be taking on the ‘Two Legends, Two Marathons’ challenge on Sunday 25th April in aid of the Franklin Butt Foundation, a Patchwaybased charity which supports initiatives to help young children in the local community who are vulnerable or disadvantaged. The charity is named after Jason Franklin and Darren Butt, two former Patchway Town FC players who lost their lives in tragic circumstances in 2019 and 2020 respectively. Grant, who grew up in Patchway and was a teammate of Jason and Darren, says he dreamt up the fundraising

challenge as a way of keeping fit and healthy at a time when largescale organised sporting events are not able to take place due to Covid-19 restrictions. The double marathon will see him visit the grounds of every team that the successful Patchway Reserves played at during their double (league and cup) winning season in 2004/5, when both Jason and Darren were in the squad. Grant’s endurance run will be formed of 15 legs, on each of which he will be accompanied by five other runners (in compliance with current Covid-19 guidelines). Each leg is available for sponsorship by a local business and donations will also be made by the runners taking part. The final leg of the gruelling day will be from the Gloucestershire

Entrance to the Crest Nicholson and Linden Homes site at Harry Stoke

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May 2021

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Sport Continued from facing page

FA headquarters at Oaklands Park, Almondsbury (scene of the Patchway Reserves’ 2004/5 cup victory) to Scott Park, Patchway, where a specially commissioned bench was installed last year in memory of Jason and Darren. Grant said: “All monies raised will go to supporting initiatives in and around Patchway. One beneficiary will be Mamas Bristol CIC who provide important help to people within the community who may be needing support; and currently due to the impact of Covid-19 that number is going up. As well as supporting Mamas Bristol CIC, the money will be used to support sporting initiatives to help youngsters get into sport and remove any financial barriers.” To sponsor Grant, please visit his dedicated GoFundMe page at gofund.me/162cc41b ● Further information about the Franklin Butt Foundation may be found on their Facebook page. Winter BSJand ad.qxp_Layout 1 26/10/2020 16:24 Page 1 Right: Grant his “support crew”

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May 2021

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Advertising

Innovation and transformation We caught up with local businessman and entrepreneur Jordan Farrell, to ask him about what he thinks makes a successful retail business, especially in these challenging times. How did it all begin for you? My very first role was as a flooring specialist. Trade Floor was my first company. I was selling and fitting high-quality floors at highly competitive prices. The quality products and workmanship shone through and I soon earned the trust of many customers. This initial success allowed me to take over Charisma Blinds where I applied the same ‘high quality, yet affordable formula’. We built a large volume of highly satisfied customers from both businesses, so it made sense to combine the companies. We became Trinity Floors and Blinds. At Trinity we sell one thing: quality products and service at a fair price. What do today’s customers want? These days, customers are more discerning when it comes to their homes. They know the ‘look’ they want to create. We’re here tohelp them create their uniquely individual look, and to their budget.

What’s in the pipeline for Trinity? It’s long been a dream of mine to help customers with every part of their home improvement journey. Our new name ‘Trinity Transformations’ reflects just this. In this past year the home has proven to be an ever more valuable asset, with more and more of us now working from home. With so many online retailers, what makes you competitive? A sense of honesty and trust can sometimes be missing from internet shopping. Online stores and services are one dimensional, lacking in what should be an exciting, emotional experience. Online buying can quickly reveal the best price, but it also presents a gamble if it’s quality and a friendly service you’re after. It’s better to see, feel and touch – so you can imagine how things will look in your home. Expert, friendly advice is always on hand too. Tell us about your new showroom Our new showroom launches in Patchway soon. Both our Thornbury and Patchway locations will offer an interior advice service.

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Many customers already work out what they want from their interior and we merely help them realise their vision. The future for Trinity Transformations. I’m really excited about building a community of highly satisfied customers, helping them to realise their dream homes. It’s my firm belief that Trinity Transformations will continue to thrive through constant innovation. The new Trinity Transformations showroom opens soon at: 81 Gloucester Road Patchway Bristol BS34 5JQ Tel: 01454 775 177 www.floorsandblinds.co.uk

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May 2021

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News

Honey bees rescued from giant nest in chimney

Little Stoke apiarist has rescued a colony of bees from a massive nest discovered inside a redundant chimney stack above a building on the A38 Gloucester Road in Patchway. Tim Hewer says he was contacted by a builder who was working on the property and had noticed “a few bees” flying around the chimney stack, which was about to be demolished. Knowing that worker bees fly when the air temperature is above 10 degrees, as it was on the day in question, Tim went to investigate and was able to confirm that the insects were indeed honey bees. With the identification confirmed, Tim started to dismantle the chimney stack, with the help of one of the builders who had kindly volunteered and been equipped with a spare beekeeper’s suit. Tim explains: “The air temperature on the day was 14 degrees, so the bees were out foraging and bringing in pollen (protein) and nectar (carbs) to feed their larvae. This told me it was a healthy colony of about 20,000 bees, and after stripping the bricks away I found the brood chamber and put it in a nucleus box.” “I moved the box 5 yards from the stack and the worker bees started fanning at the entrance to indicate to the flying bees that the queen was in residence. I returned at night with the builder

Left: 6ft bee nest exposed in the partly dismantled chimney. Right: Apiarist Tim Hewer at work during the rescue mission.

and collected all the bees that had returned.” The bees were fed that night and locked in for 24 hours. Tim continued: “As my apiary is in Little Stoke, I couldn’t keep the bees as common wisdom is that you should only move a colony less than 2ft or more than 5 miles [otherwise there is a risk of the bees returning to the precise previous site of the colony, failing to find it, and dying].” The bees were therefore moved to a friend of Tim’s in Ashton Vale and he reports that they have settled very well there. Tim estimates that the nest in the chimney stack was 6ft tall and around four years old.

Anyone who thinks they have identified a swarm of honey bees that may need removal is advised to consult the website of the

British Beekeepers Association (www.bbka.org.uk) through which contact can be made with a nearby beekeeper.

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May 2021

Elections

Police and crime commissioner election

Kerry Barker, Labour

Cleo Lake, Green Party

Heather Shearer, Liberal Democrats

Police and Crime Commissioners are responsible for holding the Chief Constable and police force to account on the public’s behalf. They oversee how crime is tackled in their area and aim to make sure that the police are providing a good service. What is your background and relevant experience? Kerry Barker: As a barrister for nearly 50 years I dealt with the most difficult cases of abuse and sexual assaults. I also undertook judicial review cases involving challenges to public bodies such as the police and local authorities. Cleo Lake: I am Bristol born with family connections in Somerset. I have over a decade of community work experience primarily through the arts. I was elected as a Councillor for Cotham in Bristol in 2016, served as Lord Mayor of Bristol 2018/19 and have been on the Avon Fire Authority Chairing the People and Culture Committee since its inception 2017. Heather Shearer: I believe in transparency and fairness when it comes to spending your money and delivering your services. I already scrutinise the PCC, as vice chair of the Police and Crime Panel. I represent the public as a councillor. Through the Safer Somerset Partnership, I support multi-agency work to reduce crime and create safer communities. Mark Shelford: I’ve sat on the Avon and Somerset Police and Crime Panel, which monitors the work of the Police Commissioner. It’s given me a clear idea of what our local police need and how they can be more effectively managed. In my time as a soldier, I learnt what good policing looks like and how to lead people to ensure it’s delivered. As an elected local

Mark Shelford, Conservative

John Smith, Independent

The role includes: Meeting the public regularly to listen to their views on policing • Producing a police and crime plan • Setting out local policing priorities • Deciding how the budget will be spent • Appointing Chief Constables and dismissing them if needed

councillor, I’ve learnt how important it is to speak to residents directly to understand their issues and concerns. John Smith: I led the Avon and Somerset PCC’s team for eight years and in 2020 I spent a year as Deputy Police and Crime Commissioner to help meet the challenges of policing during the pandemic. What are the most pressing issues in the force area? Kerry Barker: The police are meant to prevent and solve crimes. Across the area the detection rates for crimes which affect most ordinary people (burglaries, robberies, thefts, criminal damage and violent and sexual offences) are dreadfully poor. There has been a massive increase in violent and sexual crime since 2012 when the Police and Crime Commissioner was first elected. Cleo Lake: I believe we need transparency, supportive scrutiny and systemic reform in order to improve the police service and give value for money for our citizens. Heather Shearer: Covid-19 has seen a rise in domestic violence, predominantly against women. We must stop the abuse before it gets dangerous. And as we emerge from lockdown we need to make sure women feel safe on our streets and in their homes. And like many people, I’ve been the victim of burglary. Recent figures suggest that just 1 in 10 burglars

are brought to justice. I want to invest more in our community police teams to improve this. Mark Shelford: Anti-social behaviour, burglary (often related to ‘county lines’) and dangerous driving, along with the hidden crimes of domestic abuse and cyber fraud. John Smith: Central government funding has been cut by 30 percent over the last ten years, resulting in 800 fewer police officers in Avon and Somerset. This has been a huge challenge and has meant difficult decisions on what to prioritise have had to be made. What are your key policies for delivering change? Kerry Barker: If elected, I will: • Improve neighbourhood policing with more officers dedicated to community policing (more police officers on the beat in your area); • Stop the closure of police stations; and • Bring back the specialist teams of detectives. At the heart each of those priorities will be the safety and welfare of all women Cleo Lake: My priorities include: • Better action on domestic violence, hate crime, internet fraud and road safety • A preventable approach to crime and to resource interventions • Reduce the disproportionate use of Stop and Search in part by developing new guidelines on policing of personal cannabis use

Find links to the candidates’ websites & social media feeds at www.bradleystokejournal.co.uk/ elections • Improve diversity and gender balance • Review and resource the Independent Advisory Groups and set up a youth led IAG • Complete setting up of the ethics committee and support their work Heather Shearer: Policing is just one element in public safety – we need to work with community groups, health and social care agencies, education, probation to prevent crime and protect vulnerable people. Mark Shelford: I want to return to the Peelien principles of policing, the most important of which is: “The goal is preventing crime, not catching criminals. If the police stop crime before it happens, we don’t have to punish citizens or suppress their rights. An effective police force doesn’t have a high arrest rate; its community has low crime rates.” John Smith: With additional Government funding now promised for extra police officers, I would ensure these new officers once recruited would tackle areas that local people have told me need focus such as cyber crime, fraud, rural crime and business crime. In addition, my immediate priorities if elected would be: • Supporting the police to enforce Covid-19 regulations appropriately so we can get back to living normally as soon as possible • Protecting the most vulnerable in society and supporting victims • Tackling burglary, knife and drug crime

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May 2021

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News

Easter trails and online celebrations at St Michael’s

Revd Tom Benyon with scruffy during the Good Friday Zoom service

t Michael’s Church organised two Easterthemed trails over the holiday period, one around Stoke Gifford village and another in Stoke Park. Emma Stafford, children and families’ minister said: “Local family activities have been limited over lockdown, so an outdoor Easter trail seemed like the perfect idea.” “It’s been a great success – over 50 families so far have scanned the QR codes and submitted their answers to the questions about Jesus and the Easter story. There was something for everyone and preschoolers enjoyed counting all the chicks along the trail as well.” Everyone who completed the trail got a certificate and we will be announcing the winner of the prize draw shortly. “I’m grateful to all the children at St Michael’s School who decorated beautiful cut-out hearts to mark the end of the

trail. They are a sign of God’s love for us all this Easter and are on display in a window at the St Michael’s Centre.” “I had fun doing the trail – I think I know how many chicks there were, but I may have missed one or two,” said Zoe, aged 7. Like most churches across the UK, Easter looked very different for St Michael’s again this year. Due to restrictions, the popular Good Friday ‘Messy Church’ service took place on the Zoom videoconferencing platform, as did the Easter Day family celebration. “We have had a whole range of online events this year. Whilst we were unable to meet in person, we had well over 200 people join us on Zoom for our family service on Easter Day which was great fun. It was so lovely to see so many faces, young and old, join in with our worship,” said Revd Tom Benyon, the associate vicar at St Michael’s.

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News Family activity: Nature Challenge Trail

ith heritage venues now permitted to open again, Winterbourne Medieval Barn has a selection of community activities coming up in May and June to suit a wide range of ages and interests. The Barn is less than a mile from the borders of Bradley Stoke and Stoke Gifford. To find it, just head east along the Winterbourne Road and take the first left (Church Lane) after passing under the motorway. Why not bring the whole family to take part in the City Nature Challenge Trail on Saturday 1st May? Help the Bristol and Bath area defend its title as the best region in Europe for people and nature by joining us in an epic contest: to discover and record as much wildlife as possible. Follow the trail around Monks Pool Nature Reserve and back to the Barn, recording nature sightings as you go. We’ll be set up in the Barn grounds for

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Get well · Stay well by Reynold Cruziah, physiotherapist at Willow Brook Clinic

Back and neck pain

T you to collect a trail map, and we can show you how to use the iNaturalist smartphone app (which is how we record the nature sightings). Our outdoor cafe will also be open for hot drinks, juice, and sweet treats! Our toilet facilities will also be available. This is a free event! No need to book, just turn up between 10am and 2pm to pick up a trail map. Save time by downloading the free iNaturalist app in advance (search for it in your app store). ● winterbournebarn.org.uk

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May 2021

he prevalence of neck and back pain has increased since the first lockdown began. Recent research shows that 57 percent of the UK population are spending more time sitting down due to ‘remote working’. Although remote working makes everyday life easier, sitting for prolonged periods of time with a poor posture can, over time, add a tremendous amount of pressure to the spine, overstretch the spinal muscles, ligaments and spinal discs leading to neck and back pain. This type of pain can be disabling and worrying and, although common, is rarely dangerous. Many people recover reasonably quickly. Staying active, while protecting your spine, will help prevent acute pain from becoming chronic. Here are some selfcare tips to manage posture related complications. In the first few days of pain avoiding doing activities may antagonise pain. Staying active and returning to activities gradually is important in aiding recovery. Avoid sitting or standing for prolonged periods of time. Getting up every 30 minutes and stretching will take away lots of stress on your joints, muscles and ligaments. Keep your spine naturally aligned while sitting. Don’t hunch or hold your head in a

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bent position. Support the curve of your neck and back with a rolled-up towel or a small pillow. Choose the right office chair and set up your workstation so your computer screen is at eye level and your feet are supported on the floor. Exercises could be helpful for tackling neck and back problems and to prevent future episodes. Start with a low intensity exercise you enjoy and then build up both the amount and intensity. Getting good sleep is important to reduce stress and improve the feeling of wellbeing. Sleep on a firm surface using a pillow that supports the curve of your neck. Pain killers, ice or a heat pack and gentle massage may be used in conjunction with exercise to help relax and alleviate acute pain. If your pain does not resolve after 6-8 weeks, make an appointment to see an expert physiotherapist or chiropractor who, after a thorough clinical examination, will be able to determine the specific cause of your pain and recommend appropriate treatments. The Willow Brook Clinic East Offices The Willow Brook Centre www.willowbrookclinic.co.uk ● See our advert on page 13.

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May 2021

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News

Book review: ‘A Long and Winding Beat!’ Adrian Kerton reviews Stoke Gifford councillor Brian Allinson’s new book about his fascinating career in the police … and a lot more besides

e are all used to seeing the police helicopters flying over us but probably don’t realise the early adoption of this valuable resource in our area was due to the efforts of Stoke Gifford councillor Brian Allinson during his fascinating career in the police. This book about his life is not just a tale about policing in rural Somerset, but also of his humble beginnings, where his single mum worked for the ‘big house’. It follows his progression to the role of superintendent at force headquarters and along the way having a job that most young men would have dreamed of, driving the very latest cars from Jaguar. In his job as constable, he describes both the pride of dealing with the criminals, and the sadness of attending road traffic accidents and dealing with the vulnerable members of our society. Along the way, he reveals some of the tricks of the trade that may have been frowned upon, but allowed them to get on with the job and some of the peculiarities of the role, including having to ask permissions for what we would regard as everyday items of life, including the permission to get married!

“No mug? No tea!” The reader gets an interesting inside view of the various roles, the duties and responsibilities as he moves upwards through the ranks. His foresight in pushing for the use of aerial surveillance was sparked by watching the crowds arriving at Glastonbury when he realised that the only way to understand what was happening was from the air. Despite being told to “stop this” in 1987, 1989 and 1990, Brian was given a tongue in cheek approval for not “stopping this”. His involvement with aerial activities led to travel to the USA, China and Australia, where the brotherhood of the police officers across the world afforded Brian and his wife an insight into other lives which the ordinary tourist wouldn’t have. Never afraid to speak his mind, he gave advice to the government that would have maintained the helicopter service when finances were under pressure, but sadly the advice wasn’t heeded. ● Copies of the book (RRP £11.99) are available from the Stoke Gifford Parish Council office, St Michael’s Church office and Waterstones bookshop, or direct from the author by emailing brian1002allinson@icloud.com OPEN AS USUAL during bridge works Access from A38 side!

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In Brief

Councillor Column Covid-19 By the time this edition of the Journal arrives on your doorstep, the easing of the original strict lockdown will have been in effect for at least two weeks. We will probably all have had our hair cut, and possibly will have enjoyed our first drink in a pub garden, or sat with friends in our own garden. But we have all been through so much in the past six months that it is vital that we don’t risk setting this fight against Covid-19 back to the start again by taking silly risks. The vaccination programme is going exceptionally well, and soon almost all of the adult population will have had their jabs, and it would be so easy to relax and forget the lessons learned. But until other countries have completed their programmes, there will always be the danger that a mutated virus could find its way into our country and spread again. So just for a while longer, don’t take any risks, maintain social distancing and stay in the open air as much as possible. Roadworks In recent times, Stoke Gifford, Little Stoke and the other nearby communities have been adversely affected by excessive and ongoing roadworks. The MoD Roundabout, Parkway railway bridge, Gipsy Patch Lane railway bridge closure together with its associated roadworks, Rabbit Roundabout and Hambrook Lights, have all combined to make moving around in our community very difficult indeed. We understand

May 2021

and share the dissatisfaction that local residents are feeling, and therefore all three local councillors have demanded a face-to-face meeting with transport officers and Cabinet members within South Gloucestershire Council in order to thrash out what can be done to improve the situation. We simply cannot stand by in the case of Gipsy Patch Lane especially, to see the area closed off for any longer than is absolutely necessary. Residents are suffering disruption to their daily lives, and local businesses already suffering from Covid-19 restrictions, are losing a great deal of business whilst the road closures continue. Parkway Bridge The restrictions on traffic flow under Parkway railway bridge are, as predicted, increasingly causing excessive traffic queues, as people return to work. The dedicated pedestrian/ cycle tunnel once promised by the authorities, must be again approved and completed as soon as possible. The changes made to the traffic flow at Hambrook lights were not consulted on before they were introduced and should be returned to their original configuration without further delay. All of these restrictions have combined to turn our once effective road network into a nightmare for local commuters. Policing The extended lockdown has also had the effect of increasing local petty crime. With fewer people

Libraries reopen for self-service borrowing

about, the criminally minded in our society have turned to stealing from cars parked on drives and from sheds and garages. The police service locally are under resourced, and we are demanding an increase in police cover for the area, but we can help ourselves by being vigilant and immediately reporting suspicious behaviour Finally, as we increase our enjoyment of our parks and open spaces, there is a fear that there will be an increase in the dropping of litter. The parish council has arranged for an increase in the number of black rubbish bins. The old red dog waste bins are being phased out by South Gloucestershire Council and dog owners are reminded to put waste bags in the black bins and not left in bushes etc. Cllr Brian Allinson Stoke Gifford parish councillor and South Gloucestershire councillor for Stoke Gifford ward

South Gloucestershire’s libraries reopened from Monday 12th April, as permitted by Step 2 of the government’s roadmap out of lockdown, and are now offering services in line with current restrictions. These include self-service borrowing and free access to computers and wi-fi. However, services may change at short notice, so please check the dedicated webpage www. southglos.gov.uk/librarychanges before visiting. A library service spokesperson said: “You can once again enjoy the simple pleasure of choosing your own items, we have lots of new titles in stock. Reading can be whatever you need it to be – relaxing, escapism, challenging, stress relief, fun! Our library catalogue of 2.5 million items gives you even more to choose from at your fingertips and now reserving items to collect from a library convenient to you costs less – just 50p per item (free for anyone under 18).” If you prefer, you can still order ahead using Click and Collect. Book a collection slot online or by calling 01454 865022, answer a few questions and we’ll choose items based on your answers – for you, for your children or both. If you have a newborn or baby aged 0-12 months, you can pick up a Bookstart Baby Bag or Newborn Pack by visiting the library or ordering ahead using Click and Collect.

Kumon’s maths and English study programmes work to build your child’s confidence and inspire a passion for learning. Contact your local Instructor for a free assessment. Bradley Stoke Study Centre Sarah Nutchey 07808 720208

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Fees vary. Please refer to your local study centre.

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May 2021

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Advertising

The weight is over: Anytime Fitness Bradley Stoke welcomes reopening decision from government Local, community owned health club excited to opened its doors to members again on 12th April with comprehensive safety measures remaining in place THE CLUB, located in Bradley Stoke, worked tirelessly to welcome back its members initially from July last year, introducing substantial safety measures such as spaced equipment, significantly upweighted internal cleaning regimes and self-serve cleaning stations, capacity management and increased ventilation. These measures proved to be hugely successful, with recent data showing that across over 75 million visits to gyms and leisure facilities between July 2020 and January 2021, there was a Covid-19 prevalence rate of 1.7 cases per 100,000 visits. “This latest lockdown

has arguably been the most challenging of all and we were thrilled to welcome our members back,” said Libby Bell, club manager of Anytime Fitness Bradley Stoke. “Alongside the success of the vaccination programme, we look

forward to playing a key role in supporting the nation’s health and helping the community to bounce back after such a long period of uncertainty.” “The health and safety of our members, guests and staff continues to be our number

one priority and all of our comprehensive safety measures will remain in place. Health clubs across the country have done a fantastic job of keeping people safe and we’re looking forward to helping our members and local community get their health and fitness back on track!” Over the next few months Libby urges caution to all gymgoers: “It’s hard but you need to take it easy after a few months of not exercising consistently.” Her best piece of advice is to “take it slow – you’ll regain strength and fitness ability in no time!” Anytime Fitness Bradley Stoke reopened on Monday 12th April 2021. If you haven’t visited the club, make sure to come and down to try our start-of-the-art facilities, with a 1-day free trial today at anytimefitness.co.uk/ bradley-stoke

WE ARE SAFE ANGES WE’VE MADE TO CH E TH E SE TO UR TO EE FR A BOOK FE: KEEP OUR MEMBERS & STAFF SA

A new scheduling system to book your gym visit

Reduced numbers of people allowed in club

Regular deep cleaning

Increased sanitisation stations

Equipment spaced out

Masks recommended upon entry & between stations

Anytime Fitness Bradley Stoke, Willow Brook Centre, Bristol, BS32 8BS // 0117 927 7225 ANYTIMEFITNESS.CO.UK/BRADLEY-STOKE

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May 2021

Sport

Outdoor bowls returns to Baileys Court green

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By Arthur Allan, BSBC lessed with fine weather, Bradley Stoke Bowls Club (BSBC) reopened for the new season on Monday 12th April. Out of respect for the late Duke of Edinburgh, members first kept a minute’s silence. As required by law, limited numbers enjoyed two club events to welcome back members, many of whom had not bowled since the 2019 season. Members had been told about the planned programme of friendly and league fixtures, which they could view on the newly created club website www. bradleystokebowls.com By tradition, the club’s two men’s league teams play each other before the start of the league season. This was the first opportunity for the club president, Bob Wilkins, to present mementoes to the Bristol and District (B&D) players who,

as Division 3 champions in 2019, were promoted to Division 2. The North East (NE) Players had been presented with theirs at the end of 2019, as they, Division 2 champions, had been promoted to NE Division 1. During his presentation, the president said that the club would be running a recruitment campaign to attract new members, be they new or experienced bowlers. He also said that the numbers allowed on to the green were limited and anyone who wished to find out more about bowls and the club should go to the club’s website and click on the ‘Contact Us’ link. He stressed that the club would be applying the same Covid-safe sanitisation, booking and playing procedures that had been developed during the 2020 season, until they are no longer required.

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May 2021

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News

Scouts use Covid downtime to improve headquarters

uring the enforced closure due to the third Covid-19 lockdown, the 1st Little Stoke Scout Group has made significant improvements to its headquarters adjacent to the children’s play area in Little Stoke Park. The group has benefited from donations of office furniture from Leidos Europe Ltd, carpet tiles from Greenstream Flooring and a funding allowance from Stoke Gifford Parish Council. These donations have enabled them to refurbish the meeting room, which will be used by Beavers, Cubs and Scouts. The building is also now used by the youth groups that used to meet at The Stokes community centre. “The generosity of the Leidos, Greenstream Flooring and the council has been a great help in making the building so much

more welcoming and a pleasure to meet in,” says group leader Tony Edmonds. Little Stoke Scout Group welcomes enquires from other groups who may wish to use the building, especially organisations who work with and for children in our area. The building includes a wellequipped kitchen, large open hall area and toilets. There is also a large, enclosed garden with a raised seating area and a fire pit – great for outdoor cooking and campfires. In the summer holidays, Mad Science are going to be using the building for summer science camps. They hope to be running camps Monday to Friday, 8am to 5 pm, for children aged 5 to 11. Look out for a sign on the railings by the hut or join the mailing list at www.madsciencebristol.co.uk

Tony Edmonds: tonyedmonds108@yahoo.com or 07957 880503

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May 2021

News

Staging of 2021 Bradley Stoke festival hangs in the balance

ith coronavirus restrictions set to be further eased in the coming weeks, the staging of the 2021 Bradley Stoke Community Festival, due to take place on the weekend of 11th-13th June, is hanging in the balance. Enquiries by the Journal have revealed that town councillors currently anticipate making a final ‘go / no go’ decision on the 2021 festival at a committee meeting scheduled for 28th April. However, organisers of the Bradley Stoke 10k Run, due to take place on the Sunday of the festival weekend, have already decided to cancel their event in a physical form, although entrants are being offered the option of taking part in a virtual race. The Schools Festival of Football, due to take place on the Saturday of the festival weekend, could still go ahead, provided there is sufficient uptake from the

Crowd in the main arena at the last community festival, held in June 2019

participating schools. A town council spokesperson told the Journal: “No decision has yet been made by the town council with regard to the 2021 Community Festival. In line with the HM Government roadmap (and also event advice from the South Gloucestershire

Council, Safety Advisory Group), providing that Step 3 of the roadmap is activated by HM Government as of 17th May 2021, the event will be able to go ahead as it is an outdoor event.” “We would need to ensure there are robust risk assessments and other measures in place, for

example, increased distances between stalls.” As for most events of a similar nature, the later a decision to cancel is made, the higher the associated unrecoverable expenses are likely to be. Cancellation of last year’s festival (decided under delegated powers on 30th March 2020) saw the town council still having to shell out £8,712 of the original budget of £26,200. Organisation of the festival is contracted out to an event management company and their allocated budget for the 2021 Community Festival is £21,000 plus an extra £4,000 which is separately ring-fenced for the community element of the festival (the same as in previous years). The total figure of £25,000 includes all disbursements necessary to stage the festival plus fees retained by the management company.

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May 2021

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Schools

Children return to school with “amazing attitude”

Year 3’s Roman-themed day

he children at Little Stoke Primary School have enjoyed a successful return following the reopening to all pupils on 8th March. It has been a busy return to school life across the phases at school. Staff at the school have been impressed by the learning that took place during lockdown and the amazing attitude with which the children have returned to school. Headteacher Dan Ross reports: “We are incredibly proud of all the children. As I was new to the school in January, it has been wonderful to see all the children and their families in person as they return to school. Attendance has been very strong since wider reopening and we are delighted that the children have come back to school and are living up to the high standards we hold at Little Stoke, both in their behaviour and their learning.” In Year 1 and 2, pupils have enjoyed being able to participate in weekly forest school sessions, which have gone ahead come rain or shine (and sometimes both). The children have engaged with a

range of activities in the amazing on-site forest and nature space the school has to offer. In other school news, at the end of term 4, Year 3 celebrated the range of topic learning from across the weeks by engaging in a Roman-themed day. During the day, the children made laurel wreath headdresses, baked Roman bread, cracked codes using Roman numerals, tried some Roman food (with mixed opinions!), practised marching like Roman legionaries, staged a battle between the Romans and Celts and made a mosaic. A fantastic day was had by all! As summer rapidly approaches, children from all classes have been busy planting flowers and vegetables in the school’s new growing garden (each class has their own bed for which they are responsible). The garden was organised by FoLS (Friends of Little Stoke Primary) and installed at the beginning of the academic year. The children can’t wait to harvest their produce later in the year! ● littlestokeps.co.uk

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Directory of Advertisers Accountants & Bookkeepers C & M Accountants, Page 2 Dunkley’s Accountants, Page 14 Bathrooms JJ Plumbing, Page 6 Little Bathroom & Boiler Co., Page 19 Beauty Salons Beautilicious Beauty Room, Page 2 Carpentry & Joinery J. Earle Carpentry & Joinery, Page 30 Northavon Carpentry, Page 22 Carpets & Flooring Trinity Transformations, Page 18 Child Care Abacus Pre-School, Page 5 Banana Moon Day Nursery, Page 1 Chiropractic Willow Brook Clinic, Page 13 Cleaning & Domestic Services Niko’s Mobile Cleaning Ltd, Page 16 Curtains & Blinds Trinity Transformations, Page 18 Domestic Appliance Repairs Kitchen & Laundry Appliance Care, Page 14 Education & Learning Olympus Academy Trust, Page 29 Tockington Manor School, Page 32 Estate Agents Ocean Estate Agents, Page 11 Financial Services Aspirations Financial Advice, Page 21 Foot Care Sarah Williams Chiropodist, Page 31 Willow Brook Clinic, Page 13 Funeral Services F. Woodruff Funeral Directors, Page 21 Memorial Woodlands, Page 28 MW Funeral Directors, Page 8 Garage Services LCM Automotive, Pages 1 & 13 Tyres Direct, Page 23 Gardening & Landscaping Services ColourFence, Page 4 Painting Petals, Page 30 Smart Patios, Page 10 Gyms & Health Clubs See directory on SGJ website Healthcare Centre for Reproductive Medicine, Page 6

PAINTING & DECORATING

Home Improvements & Furnishings Door Express, Page 26 Garolla Roller Shutter Doors, Page 26 Launderettes Wash Shop Patchway, Page 30 Mortgages & Financial Advice Aspirations Financial Advice, Page 21 Painting & Decorating Digby Decor, Page 30 Painting Petals, Page 30 More in directory on SGJ website Pet Services & Supplies Rosie Posie Pet Services, Page 31 Pest Control Services PestBGone, Page 31 Physiotherapy Willow Brook Clinic, Page 13 Plasterers B & D Plastering, Page 5 Plumbing & Heating Fastfix Plumbing & Drainage, Page 6 JJ Plumbing, Page 6 Little Bathroom & Boiler Co., Page 19 Low Cost Plumbing, Page 31 M.S.M Plumbing & Heating, Page 31 Panache Plumbing, Page 31 S. Berryman Plumbing & Heating, Page 31 Politics Dan Norris (Labour), Page 9 Property Maintenance David Coombs Services, Page 31 Mark’s Gutter Cleaning, Page 31 So Clear Gutter Clearing, Page 31 Retirement Homes Abbeyfield Bristol & Keynsham, Page 17 Room & Facilities Hire Stoke Gifford Parish Council, Page 15 Rubbish Clearance Bradley Stoke Rubbish Clearance, Page 30 Self Storage Admiral’s Yard Self Storage, Page 19 Shopping Willow Brook Centre, Page 3 Solicitors Bevan Evemy Solicitors, Page 10 Slimming Clubs & Consultants Slimming World, Page 7 Taxis & Private Hire See directory on SGJ website

Visit our online directory: www.stokegiffordjournal.co.uk/directory CARPENTRY & JOINERY

May 2021

LAUNDERETTES

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RUBBISH CLEARANCE

Bradley Stoke Rubbish Clearance Licensed waste carrier

We load and clear Same day service Household, garden, garage & sheds cleared Single item jobs Cheaper than a skip No VAT Contact Stuart or Sue on 0800 0234 995 (Freephone) or 07770 944727 stuart.thistlewood@yahoo.co.uk LEAFLET DISTRIBUTION

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May 2021

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GUTTERING, DOWNPIPES & FASCIA

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Tockington Manor School and Nursery for boys & girls aged 2 - 13

Discover how Tockington could be the perfect fit for your family Worried about the education your child may have missed due to the lockdowns? Discover our small friendly classes, family approach to education, wrap-around care and enviable success rate of our Year 8 pupils gaining entry into first choice senior schools many with scholarships. Book your socially distanced private tour or 1:1 video call with our Headmaster to find out how we could be the perfect fit for your family.

Limited places remaining for Reception 2021 and 2022

01454 613229

asymonds@tockingtonmanorschool.com

www.tockingtonmanorschool.com Tockington Manor School and Nursery, Washingpool Hill Road, BS32 4NY