Stoke Gifford Journal, September 2021

Delivered FREE to 5,000 homes in Stoke Gifford & Little Stoke

September 2021 • Issue 25

SPORT P8 | SCHOOLS P9, P20, P27 | WHAT’S ON P16, P28, P29 | DIRECTORY P30-31

WESTWARD GO!

Gipsy Patch Lane: Route under bridge reopens after 18-month closure, but it’s one-way only until late 2022… Pages 4, 5, 16 & 17

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PLUS , IN YOUR 32-PAGE STOKE GIFFORD MAGAZINE

And yes, a double-decker bus DOES fit under it!

Parkway Railway Bridge

Abbeywood Community School

Two-way traffic restored P10-11

Students celebrate results

P9 & P27

l Council pledges support for Afghan refugees l Parking bays & racks introduced for e-scooters l Netball club celebrates 10th anniversary l First images released of new railway station serving Filton Airfield l Latest news from our local Lions Clubs l Latest news from Stoke Gifford Parish Council l ‘Open doors, open hearts’ at Little Stoke church l Volunteers sought for local Poppy Appeal l Green light given for rebuild of Patchway Community School l MoD Abbey Wood celebrates 25 years l Siblings’ marathon run in memory of brother

LITTLE STOKE BS34 6HW

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3

News “We will open our arms and hearts to Afghanistan refugees” A contribution from Cllr Franklin Owusu-Antwi, South Gloucestershire Council’s Cabinet member for public health and equality of opportunity, Afghanistan veteran and the council’s armed forces champion

Cllr Franklin Owusu-Antwi, who is also the South Gloucestershire Council ward member for Bradley Stoke North

W

e have all seen the liberalisation in terms of access events unfolding in to education, work and freedom Afghanistan in the to determine their own destinies. recent days and weeks with, That is why, as South Glos I’m sure, a sense of horror and Council’s armed forces champion, frustration. Particularly too, I am pleased we are standing by for those who have served and to play our part in supporting worked to help that country over those who will be resettled from the past 20 years, we have also Afghanistan by the government. worried about the safety of those We have already begun to local people we worked alongside make arrangements with partner and who were vital to that work. organisations, who will be able The risks to those who helped to work directly with those who us were significant as they stood settle here, so that they can be alongside us in Afghanistan and supported to start a new life are now even greater purely in South Gloucestershire, and because they stood with us, have identified several suitable but our personnel have left the homes for families who need to country. That is to say nothing of be evacuated, so that they can the civilians, particularly women, be given a safe and supported who may never have worked welcome. alongside British staff, but who With the need likely to increase WB Generic AW.qxp_Layout 21:14 1 also were able to enjoy increased 1 15/09/2020 as time goes on,Page we are

asking that property owners with potentially suitable homes let us know so that we can extend our offer further.

We rightly stand by our own armed forces veterans and others who risked and sacrificed so much to help in Afghanistan, so it is right that we also now stand by those Afghans who worked alongside us, sharing the same risks and who are now facing new threats, and who now need our help.

South Gloucestershire is a wonderful place to live. It is safe

and welcoming and I know that we will all open our arms and our hearts to those who have helped us and who now need our support.

● Owners of properties in South

Gloucestershire who believe they may have suitable accommodation available in the coming weeks and months who would like to discuss providing housing for those being resettled are invited to contact sghomes@southglos.gov.uk Rent will be paid within the housing benefit cap.

x a l e R

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September 2021

News

T Contact Us Editor: Stephen Horton info@stokegiffordjournal.co.uk 01454 300 400 83 Snowberry Close Bradley Stoke Bristol BS32 8GB

Find us on Facebook: StokeGiffordJournal Follow us on Twitter: @TheSGJournal

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: October 2021

• Advertising copy deadline: Friday 1st October • Article copy deadline: Monday 4th October • The magazine will be distributed from Saturday 16th October Subject to change due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.

Please check www.stokegiffordjournal.co.uk/magazine for latest information.

he through-route along Gipsy Patch Lane between Little Stoke and the A38 Gloucester Road has finally reopened, albeit in one direction only, following a road closure that lasted 10 months longer than originally planned.

The road was closed at the railway bridge site on 6th March 2020 to permit demolition of the old narrow brick-built bridge and its replacement with a much wider concrete structure. However, the onset of the coronavirus crisis later that month meant that the bridgeswap operation which had been planned for Easter 2020 had to be postponed. It was eventually carried out (although not without problems) in November 2020, 7 months behind schedule.

Following the installation of the new bridge, work has been taking place to lower the road surface underneath it, so that there is sufficient clearance for high vehicles such as double decker buses and HGVs (as mandated by national design standards).

Further delays to the project arose after engineers determined that a larger than anticipated pumping station would be required to prevent flooding of the road underneath the bridge.

One-way system

Gipsy Patch Lane reopened to traffic in a westbound direction only (towards the A38) in the early hours of Monday 6th September 2021.

The new one-way system operates between the Little

Stoke Lane junction and the mini-roundabout at Rolls-Royce.

Traffic is only able to travel westbound between those points, towards Filton and the A38.

For safety reasons while the one-way system is in operation, the majority of side roads to the east of the railway bridge (Little Stoke side) have been closed at their junctions with Gipsy Patch Lane. West of the bridge, access to Pegasus Park is ‘right-in’ and ‘right-out’ only and the junction with Titan Road is closed. For full details of the one-way system, including all junction restrictions and alternative access arrangements, see the map and description on pages 16 and 17.

The existing signposted diversion route remains in place for eastbound traffic via the A38, Bradley Stoke Way and Winterbourne Road. However, motorists with local knowledge are likely to continue using shorter alternative routes.

Safe working

South Gloucestershire Council (SGC) says the one-way system is necessary to “allow safe and efficient working” during the construction of new bus lanes along Gipsy Patch Lane, on either side of the bridge. It will also permit Network Rail’s contractor Alun Griffiths to install the redesigned pumping equipment under the road surface on the south side of the carriageway beneath the bridge.

Motorists travelling westbound along Gipsy Patch Lane will find they are channelled onto the “wrong” side of the carriageway

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5

News

Relief as Gipsy Patch bridge route reopens to traffic (but road will be one-way only for the next 16 months)

Left: Cars pass under the bridge for the first time on Monday 6th September. Right: Narrow traffic lane east of the bridge as highway widening works get under way.

Continued from facing page

for this direction of travel. This is because the ongoing highway and bridge works are mostly taking place on the south side of the road, i.e. on the left when

travelling towards the A38.

The one-way system is expected to be in place until the road widening works have been completed in late 2022, although a recent meeting of

the stakeholders’ liaison group was told that there would be an “incremental release of temporary measures where possible”.

The railway bridge replacement and highway

widening works on Gipsy Patch Lane form part of the £57 million Cribbs Patchway MetroBus Extension scheme that will link Parkway Station with The Mall at Cribbs Causeway.

Work completed over the summer, as reported by SGC • Bristol Water and Western Power Distribution have both completed diversions of their apparatus, which will enable both the road widening work and future landscaping. This includes the planting of replacement trees.

• A new attenuation tank has been installed at the Gifford Crescent junction, which will help safeguard Gipsy Patch Lane east of the railway bridge (residential side) against future flooding.

• Our teams excavated 616 tonnes of material, installed 54 metres of 900mm diameter pipe and backfilled 251 tonnes of granular fill.

Grass seeding in this area will take place this autumn.

• Temporary works at Pegasus Park have been completed and permanent works next to Rolls Royce have started including works to install a new traffic signal junction as part of the Horizon 38 development.

• A Temporary fence has been installed along the southern verge of Gipsy Patch Lane next to Bush Avenue and Smithcourt Drive.

This is to provide a visual screen of the works area for residents who will be closest to the road widening works on the south side of Gipsy Patch Lane.

• Some tree pruning work has also been carried out on the northside of Gipsy Patch Lane east of the bridge and west of the bridge opposite Rolls Royce. This work was needed because the trees were overhanging the pavement and road.

• At the railway bridge, Network Rail and its contractor Alun Griffiths have been carrying out highway construction work along the north-side carriageway in preparation of Gipsy Patch Lane opening one-way.

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September 2021

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Painted parking bay at ‘Braydon Gate’, Brook Way, Bradley Stoke

R

esponding to criticism from local councillors about e-scooters being parked inconsiderately, Voi, the operator of the e-scooter trial scheme in the West of England, has begun implementing socalled ‘parking infrastructure’ in Filton, Patchway, Bradley Stoke and Stoke Gifford.

The initiative will see the introduction of 17 painted parking bays and seven e-scooter parking racks.

The parking infrastructure is being installed as a mitigation to reduce e-scooter clutter, where users may end their ride and leave the e-scooter vehicles untidily, potentially creating an obstruction for other pedestrians and cyclists or interfering with

accessibility features such as dropped kerbs and tactile paving.

The painted bays are marked with a semi-permanent acrylicbased line marking spray paint which has an expected life of 3-6 months in areas of high usage. It can be removed with a pressure washer.

Painted bays have been (or are planned to be) created within Bradley Stoke at the following locations: • Brook Way adjacent to the entrance to the Three Brooks Local Nature (Braydon Gate) • Brook Way, junction with Hawkins Crescent (north end) • Bradley Stoke Way, adjacent to the Willow Brook Centre • Bradley Stoke Way, adjacent to Bradley Stoke Leisure Centre

Update on the WECA e-scooter trial (Aug 2021) provided via South Gloucestershire Council

Overall the e-scooter trial has been going really well with very strong usage in the Bristol/South Gloucestershire trial area. It’s really pleasing to see that usage is remaining very high at around 65,000 trips per week for a variety of purposes and saving car journeys in many instances. The mode is still gaining 13 percent new riders each week and is one of the most successful in Europe.

The trial fleet will soon reach its target of over 3,000 vehicles for the whole Bristol & South Gloucestershire short-term rental trial area. For usage until the end of April the demographic split was 61 percent male and 39 percent female which exceeds the industry average of 25 percent usage for females. Typically the majority of users are aged between 18 and 35.

The mode also provided a significant benefit to NHS and emergency workers during the pandemic with over 3,000 employees registering and undertaking over 60,000 journeys during the period of the national lockdown when the operator provided monthly passes for free. This has now reduced to 75 percent discount for emergency services and NHS employees and it’s hoped that staff continue to use the mode.

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7

News

Parking bays & racks introduced for e-scooters • Bradley Stoke Way, adjacent to the Great Meadow MetroBus stops (both directions) Parking racks are substantial metal structures that can be either single- or double-sided.

A double-sided parking rack has been installed at the junction of Brierly Furlong and Church Road in Stoke Gifford, adjacent to a pedestrian entrance into the Aviva Centre.

The purpose of the painted bays and parking racks is to clarify parking locations for both users and non-users.

The locations where infrastructure is being installed have been reviewed by South Gloucestershire Council’s Assess & Decide team, with feedback and some alterations being provided to the operator. The locations were chosen based on the top fifteen utilised parking areas along with suggestions by council officers.

The operator has had a Section 50 licence approved by South Gloucestershire Council to enable their contractors to implement the infrastructure on pavements and shared-use paths. All painted bays and e-scooter parking racks will be removed by the operator’s contractor at the end of the trial. Signage is being installed alongside the e-scooter parking infrastructure so that it is clear that the asset has been installed as part of the official Weca e-scooter trial scheme.

Weca, South Gloucestershire Council and Voi will monitor the usage of the parking locations following the installation of the parking infrastructure to understand the impact on user behaviour and e-scooter clutter.

This will potentially lead to further installations of parking infrastructure within the existing e-scooter trial area within the local authority area for the

Parking rack at the junction of Brierly Furlong and Church Road, Stoke Gifford

remainder of the trial’s duration.

In addition to the e-scooter parking infrastructure, Voi has recently implemented a ‘mandatory parking cap’ feature, which means a maximum of ten trial e-scooters can park at locations which have experienced

overcrowding. This was rolled out to over 100 locations in July and was expected to be at 200 by the end of August, although most are in the City of Bristol area.

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Sport Netball club celebrates 10th anniversary

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The club was officially 10 years old in July but, due to Covid restrictions, celebrations had to be postponed until August.

The club was founded in 2011 to offer young players an opportunity

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9

Schools

“Outstanding” Post-16 results at Abbeywood

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bbeywood Community School is celebrating strong performances across both A-Levels and vocational qualifications, with some outstanding individual performances.

Students have secured places to study at many of the top universities in the country, including Oxford University, Imperial College London, Exeter University and Bristol University.

A spokesperson for the school said: “In what has been an unprecedented and extremely challenging year for all of our young people, the students of Abbeywood Community School have excelled. They have continued to maintain positive attitudes and shown resilience in these extraordinary and uncertain times.”

Individual successes

Notable individual successes highlighted by the school include: • Jasmine Ajaz 5A*s in Maths, Further Maths, Chemistry, Physics and EPQ • William Lambern 4A*s in Maths, Further Maths, Physics and Computing • Daniella Sakota 3A*s in English Lit., History and Art • Anish Kataria 3A*s in Biology, Chemistry and Psychology • Dominika Dovicakova 2A*s & A in History, Sociology and Philosophy • Rezwana Begum Dist*, A* & A in Business, Criminology and

Sociology • Charlie Dell A* & 2As in History, English and Philosophy • Lies Dunn 3 As in Criminology, Sociology and Film Studies • Sam Mansfield-Njie 2A*s and 2As in Maths, Physics, Chemistry and Further Maths • Charley Wood 3As in Sociology, Criminology and History • Michaela Stutt 3As in Maths, Physics and English Language • Catrin Perrott A* and 2As in Biology, Chemistry and Maths • Jonny Mead 2A*s, A & B in Psychology, Criminology, EPQ and Chemistry Associate headteacher Ben Dilley said, “Through hard work and dedication, and responding to the high quality teaching from our teaching staff, this year group has performed exceptionally.

Congratulations to our students, who have been rewarded with outstanding results that have allowed them to choose their next path, either in education, apprenticeships or employment.”

“We wish all of our students well and are confident that

they are on course to succeed at degree level, in their apprenticeships or employment.

We are incredibly proud of all that they have achieved both academically and as they have progressed into outstanding young people.”

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September 2021

News

Two-way traffic returns to Parkway Bridge Cost of removing ‘social distancing’ scheme and implementing new safety measures put at £60,000

T

emporary shuttle lights which had been in place at Parkway Bridge since June 2020 were removed at the start of September, coinciding with the start of the new school year and an anticipated increase in traffic levels. At the same time, footways under the bridge have been permanently widened by small amounts and a 20mph speed limit for road users introduced.

The move appears to represent a climbdown by officers at South Gloucestershire Council (SGC), who as recently as May 2021 argued that the “experimental” scheme should stay in place for a further 12 months.

The measures to temporarily widen the footways on either side under the bridge were originally put in place to allow pedestrians and cyclists to ‘socially distance’ from one another, with traffic

Decision

Two-way traffic back running under the bridge in the first week of September.

The extent of the minimal footway widening under the bridge can be judged from the varying distance between the kerb and the yellow line road marking.

reduced to one lane controlled by traffic lights.

However, as traffic levels increased following the end of the third coronavirus lockdown, the three Stoke Gifford ward

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councillors were unanimous in calling for the scheme to be removed, whilst at the same time pressing for the longer-term solution of building a second, parallel tunnel through the embankment, dedicated for use by pedestrians and cyclists.

Cllr Ernie Brown, writing in the Stoke Gifford Parish Council annual report published in May 2021, said: “The restrictions put in place due to the pandemic have run their course and we are again requesting South Gloucestershire to have them removed.”

However, in a briefing note published later that month, SGC officers responded with a recommendation to keep the scheme in place for a further 12 months, saying that it had “encouraged active travel and improved road safety whilst not having an adverse impact on the highway network”.

With traffic levels expected to further increase from September as the schools returned, the three Stoke Gifford ward councillors persisted with their demands and were eventually successful in securing a new scheme that will “prioritise safety whilst allowing a more controlled free-flowing traffic”.

A report prepared for SGC’s director of environment and community services, who made the decision to remove the lights, shows that three options were on the table: 1. Retain the scheme for a further 12 months 2. Remove the lights and return to the pre-Covid layout 3. Remove the lights and introduce pedestrian and cycle safety measures Within Option 3, there were three variations proposed: (a) widen the footway on the eastern side and implement a protective pedestrian barrier on that side; (b) widen the shared use path on the western side and remove the footway on the eastern side; and (c) widen the footways by 0.5m on the eastern side and 0.3m on the western side.

The decision reached was that Option 3c be implemented, which the report states reduces the carriageway width to 5.7m, adding that this is “an adequate width for two-way traffic”.

The cost of carrying out the work is put at “approx. £60,000”, although this sum is said to include “funding for several active travel initiatives [at local schools and businesses]”.

Implementation

The work to widen the footways under the bridge was carried out during a two-week-long series of overnight road closures that started on Monday 23rd August and concluded on Friday 3rd September. The temporary traffic lights and barriers were then removed, allowing two-way traffic under the bridge to resume from the morning of Saturday 4th September.

The new 20mph speed limit on Brierly Furlong and Hatchet Road extends from south of the Church Road mini-roundabout to the Ratcliffe Drive roundabout.

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News

The three South Gloucestershire ward councillors for Stoke Gifford at the site of the Parkway Bridge temporary shuttle lights earlier this year.

L-r: Ernie Brown, Keith Cranney, Brian Allinson.

The council says it will be working alongside local schools to further promote road safety and to ensure local children who use the bridge underpass understand the changes.

Reactions

Speaking after the decision to remove the lights was made public, SGC’s Cabinet member for regeneration, environment and strategic infrastructure, Cllr Steve Reade, said: “With Covid restrictions having been lifted and the vaccine rollout continuing, the necessity for the current measures under Parkway Bridge to enable social distancing have significantly reduced and we are in a position to look again at how best to manage this junction.”

“I am pleased that the new scheme, agreed following consultation with local members, enables us to again allow traffic to flow more freely under this pinch point without sacrificing the safety of pedestrians and cyclists that travel under the bridge every day, including commuters and students ranging from primary to Post-16.”

Stoke Gifford councillors Brian Allinson, Ernie Brown and Keith Cranney said: “We are absolutely delighted that the council has listened to our calls on behalf of the community to remove these lights and free up traffic with these positive measures, helping to keep Stoke Gifford moving as we look to move past the

Covid-19 pandemic.”

“Public safety remains a top priority for us as local councillors and we are pleased to see the footpaths being widened and the speed limit being changed to 20mph to encourage more considerate driving under and around the bridge.”

“Our campaign continues for a new pedestrian tunnel [through the embankment], removing the risks posed by traffic to the public on foot and bikes, and we will keep pushing the council and the West of England Combined Authority to get this delivered as soon as possible.”

Concerns

In response to concerns voiced by some readers regarding the reduced road width, an SGC spokesperson said: “The changes being made to the road layout under the bridge are in line with guidance from the Manual for Streets. There is good visibility between the roundabouts either side of the bridge, which means the new width of 5.7m along this short stretch of carriageway is appropriate. Any high-sided vehicle using this stretch of road, including buses, will, as with the previous road layout, need to follow the designated path because of the bridge’s restricted height. This stretch of road is also being reduced to 20mph, which will make manoeuvring through narrower sections of carriageway easier and safer.”

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September 2021

News

First images released of new railway station serving Filton Airfield and YTL Arena Complex

N

etwork Rail and YTL Developments have released the first computer-generated images of the proposed new railway station at Brabazon, the mixed-use development being constructed on the site of the former Filton Airfield in north Bristol.

The station at Brabazon – currently designated Filton North – will connect the new neighbourhood and adjacent YTL Arena Complex to Bristol Temple Meads in less than 15 minutes once it is completed as part of MetroWest Phase 2.

Network Rail is expected to submit a detailed planning application for the station in the coming weeks. Subject to approval, Network Rail is expected to begin construction in 2022, with the station then

The new station at Brabazon, viewed from the footbridge (looking east)

scheduled to be operational in 2023.

The YTL Arena Complex, which includes a 17,000-capacity concert arena with adjoining spaces for exhibitions & conventions, leisure facilities and

food and drink outlets, is then scheduled to open its doors for the first time in 2024.

YTL Developments is contributing over £1 million to the cost of the railway station, which forms part of an integrated transport plan for the new neighbourhood.

The new railway station will connect with services on the Cribbs Patchway MetroBus Extension as they pass through Brabazon, allowing seamless journeys across north Bristol by public transport. The station will also link to a network of walking routes and cycle paths that will criss-cross this new neighbourhood, encouraging active travel.

In addition, the new station will be accessible to all. There will be step-free access, covered

waiting areas on both platforms and dedicated blue-badge parking spaces. There will also be covered cycle parking, while the station will also be secure thanks to CCTV. Details of the station come just a few weeks after YTL Developments appointed consultants to develop designs for Brabazon Park, which will be just 200m west of the new station and directly in front of the YTL Arena Complex. The new park, which is expected to open to the public in 2024, is set to be the largest new urban public park in the South West for 50 years.

The first two-, three- and four-bedroom homes and oneand two-bedroom apartments at Brabazon – in a phase known as The Hangar District – are also under construction approximately 300m to the north of the station site.

Seb Loyn, director at YTL Developments said: “Investing in public transport and active travel is a key part of the vision to ensure Brabazon becomes a thriving new neighbourhood for Bristol. With our first homes now selling fast, the new rail station due to be operational by 2023 and then Brabazon Park and the YTL Arena Complex due to open in 2024, progress is well underway to deliver on that vision.” ● www.brabazon.co.uk

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News

Aerial view of the proposed new railway station, looking west, with the Brabazon Hangars (repurposed as the YTL Arena Complex) in the background

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September 2021

News

Councillor Column On transport matters, driving standards and more

A

s we move into the autumn months, we can hope that the extensive remodelling of Gipsy Patch Lane will be moving into its final phase. We have been advised that the new bridge will reopen to one way traffic on Monday 6th September; initially, westbound only, i.e. towards the A38. Eastbound traffic will still need to continue as now via Stoke Lane. The completion of the entire project and the full opening of Gipsy Patch Lane is not projected until later in 2022.

The much-extended period of major disruption to normal life has been dreadful for the residents of Gipsy Patch Lane and the other roads in the vicinity, and I pay tribute to the patience they have exhibited during the past two years. Thank you for your forbearance!

Since lockdown has eased, and traffic is returning to more normal levels, I have become very concerned by a serious increase in poor driving standards exhibited by some motorists. The situation is exacerbated by the almost complete lack of specialist police traffic officers. During my 30 years of policing, we would frequently pull errant drivers over, and ‘discuss’ with them their behaviour. I am convinced that that policy ensured a higher standard of adherence to the Highway Code and saved many lives in the long run.

Sadly, however, because of severe budget reductions the much-depleted force of today does not have the specialised road traffic units that it once had. I am intending to discuss the problem with our new police and crime commissioner.

Parkway Bridge will soon be reopened to two-way traffic, the footways have been resurfaced, and slightly increased in width in order to enhance pedestrian safety. The increase in footpath width will of course reduce slightly the carriageway available to road traffic, so a new 20mph speed limit will be introduced.

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The changes will help restore traffic flow, but the fact remains that the 70-year-old bridge is no longer suited to coping with both vehicular and pedestrian traffic levels in the 21st century. The Parkway Bridge is a vital element in keeping the community moving and I will continue to press for a dedicated pedestrian and cycle tunnel. Public safety depends on it.

The Parish Council has filled two of its councillor vacancies by co-option, and I take much pleasure in welcoming Anthony Hyde who will represent the University Ward and Sue Bandcroft who will cover the Stoke Gifford Central Ward.

I will repeat the comments that I made in the June edition, concerning the next council elections due in May 2023. There will then be a number of vacancies to be filled in both our district and parish Councils. It is vital for the ongoing success of our community that we fill the vacancies with enthusiastic and responsible new councillors who live in the ward and are committed to speaking out in our interests and taking action where necessary. I have been honoured to serve in that role for the past 20 years, but it is now time for a new approach.

Latest news from our local Lions Clubs

L-r: Ailsa Young, Margaret Nash (Friends of Carers Support Centre) and Duncan

By Ailsa Young, Bradley Stoke Lions o celebrate 50 years of service, Brunel Lions, the parent club of Bradley Stoke Lions walked the Clifton Suspension Bridge 50 times recently. One of our members was dressed as Isambard Kingdom Brunel, the designer of the bridge and this fascinated many of the children. We met some lovely people on our way and did hope that we might even encourage someone to want to join the Lions.

We are always looking for new members and people who might like to become Friends of Lions to help us at events.

The Lions are great recyclers, particularly of spectacles which we send off to India, Africa, the Philippines and Nepal, to name just a few, to give the joy of sight to young and old. So seek out your old glasses and put them in the boxes in your local opticians, who will pass them on to the Lions for redistribution. Helen Keller, an American lady born in 1880, who at the age of 19 months became deaf and blind as a result of an unknown illness,

T

became an inspirational lecturer and an advocate for the blind and deaf. Before her death in 1968 she tasked the members of Lions Clubs to become Knights of the Blind and ever since, the Lions have made sight one of their main programmes. The Lions’ SightFirst programme funds the efforts of Lions and others to fight the major causes of preventable and reversible blindness and provide services to persons who are blind or have a visual impairment.

Since this programme began in 1990, SightFirst has helped save the sight of more than 30 million people worldwide.

The Lions Club recently donated a quantity of old British and foreign coins to Margaret Nash, chair of the Friends of Carers Support Centre, to support their fundraising efforts. One of the two young carers who were helping to look after the garden, a refuge for young carers in the Vassall Centre, took this photo of Duncan, Margaret and myself.

For more information on the Lions please contact Ailsa Young on ambyoung29@yahoo.com or phone 07737 106836.

Cllr Brian Allinson Stoke Gifford parish councillor and South Gloucestershire councillor for Stoke Gifford ward

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Stoke Gifford Journal

Parish Council News New parish councillors, by co-option

Defibrillator installed Parish councillors have agreed to install a defibrillator unit outside Little Stoke Community Hall, not only as the site is busy as a sports and recreational facility, but the unit is also linked to the emergency services so the defibrillator can be accessible to all members of the public within close proximity of the site. Callers will be directed to the defibrillator unit by the emergency operator, should it be required.

Replacement play tower in Meade Park, Stoke Gifford The parish council have routine professional checks from RoSPA who carry out in-depth health & safety checks on all play area equipment managed by the parish.

The current tower structure is now very old/dated and in need of replacing. The parish have consulted with local residents and been in contact with local play area specialists to put together a design plan.

Cllr Sue Bandcroft Stoke Gifford Central Ward

Cllr Anthony Hyde Stoke Gifford University Ward

“I live in Stoke Gifford and service two of the Parish Council notice boards fortnightly. I chair a local Friends’ Group and play an active role in the community.”

Cllr Hyde is an active member of the Conservative Party, and a retired local government officer.

“I am also the Chair of Stoke Gifford Retirement Village Residents’ Association, and represents approximately 250 people living there”.

Next meeting of Full Council: Tuesday 14th September, 7pm

The parish are looking for a like-for-like replacement, building a play space around the current slide that is extremely popular with local users.

The images below and right show an example of the sort of thing we are looking to install.

Parish councillors will be discussing this further at the Full Council meeting on Tuesday 14th September.

Stoke Gifford Parish Council, Little Stoke Community Hall Little Stoke Lane, Little Stoke BS34 6HR t: 01454 865202 e: clerk@stokegifford.org.uk w: www.stokegifford.org.uk

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September 2021

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MetroBus and road scheme will benefit pedestrians and cyclists, says councillor

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he Cribbs Patchway MetroBus Extension (CPME) is a £57 million investment to reduce congestion and improve journey times for all road users in the area by providing a new quick, reliable public transport system and a realistic alternative to travelling by car.

As part of the CPME project, highway improvements are being made along Gipsy Patch Lane, including footway widening and new bus lanes. This will result in significant benefits for everyone, whether travelling by bus, car, cycle or on foot. These works are being completed by SGC’s Streetcare team.

Network Rail and its contractor Alun Griffiths will also continue work at the new railway bridge on Gipsy Patch Lane on behalf of South Gloucestershire Council.

The wider bridge will provide space for new bus lanes in each direction and shared use cycle and pedestrian pathways, as well as general traffic lanes.

SGC Cabinet member for regeneration, environment and strategic infrastructure, Cllr Steve Reade, said: “The CPME is a flagship project for the council and it plays a key part improving public transport, walking and cycling facilities and the road network in the area.”

“The partial reopening of Gipsy Patch Lane is an important milestone for this ambitious project which has already involved the installation of the new railway bridge, the upgrading of bus stops on Hatchet Road and changes at the San Andreas roundabout in Cribbs Causeway.”

“The westbound oneway system will support businesses and help keep South Gloucestershire moving as we continue to recover from the pandemic.”

“We apologise for any inconvenience caused by the work, and we would like to thank the local community for their continued patience.”

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Gipsy Patch Lane one-way system

In detail: Gipsy Patch Lane one-way system For safety reasons while the one-way system is in operation, the majority of side roads to the east of the railway bridge (Little Stoke side) need to be closed at their junctions with Gipsy Patch Lane.

This includes Station Road, Gifford Crescent, the service road, Smithcourt Drive and Bush Avenue (west-most junction).

Access for residents and businesses will be maintained via diversion routes.

The Gipsy Patch Lane service road’s junction with Gifford Crescent will be open. The eastern access to Bush Avenue, nearest to Little Stoke Lane, will remain fully open to residents and patrons of the pub. Drivers are advised that the speed limit along Bush Avenue and Smithcourt Drive will be reduced to 20mph for the duration of the works. Little Stoke Lane will also remain open.

Cllr Steve Reade at the new bridge ahead of the partial road reopening

Guidance for pedestrians and cyclists Cyclists on the road will need to observe the one-way system and use the shared use paths that run along Gipsy Patch Lane.

Cyclists and pedestrians will also be able to use the new shared use path under the railway bridge.

A temporary pedestrian crossing has been installed on Gipsy Patch Lane between the junctions of Gifford Crescent and Station Road.

This will be in operation throughout the duration of the one-way system.

Businesses in Station Road, Gifford Crescent and the Stokers public house will remain open for business as usual. Vehicular access to the shops at Gifford Crescent will be via Kingsway while cars accessing the Stokers pub will do so via Bush Avenue (eastmost junction). Vehicular access to Station Road will continue to be via Clay Lane to the north.

At Horizon 38, Titan Road will be closed, so all traffic will need to use Taurus Road.

Businesses at Pegasus Park (including Stagecoach, Strenco and Tyres Direct UK) will be accessible and remain open as usual, but traffic entering and exiting will need to follow the one-way system.

This means that the junction will be ‘right-in’ and ‘right-out’ only.

For more information, visit the project webpage www.southglos.gov.uk/cpmetrobus or @sgloscpme on Facebook

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September 2021

News

Scenes from the coffee morning held between 10am and noon every Thursday at Little Stoke Baptist Church, Kingsway

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here has certainly been a lot of activity in the first month of the new minister’s arrival at Little Stoke Baptist Church on Kingsway.

Rev. Tania Vaughan says: “In this first month I think the thing I have heard most from the community has been, ‘I didn’t realise the building was open!’’

Well that’s changing already.

In just a month, more people have been attending the free coffee morning every Thursday 10am-noon to enjoy drinks, chat, crafts and jigsaws, but also to browse the ever-changing tabletop sale items which are available for any donation amount.

The car park has been spruced up with some new planting to add a bit of colour and make

it more appealing to the many people who walk through it. This is just the start of a plan to make community gardening accessible to all. As a first step, the parish council has handed over the care of the planters at the entrance to Little Stoke Community Hall.

More information can be found in the Facebook Group ‘Little Stoke Growing Community’.

On 5th September the church hosted its first free community event, Build a Bug House, which included the community being involved in the weeks before collecting material and then helping to build it. Also available were bug-related crafts, games, cakes and refreshments. The next free community event will happen at the end of October.

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September 2021

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19

News

‘Open doors, open hearts’ at Little Stoke church Continued from facing page

The best way to keep up to date is on the church’s Facebook page.

With a brand-new website (www.littlestokebaptist.org), an engaging social media presence and the growing popularity of our coffee morning, it can certainly be said that Little Stoke Baptist Church has opened its doors.

The church, however, is not just a social enterprise.

Rev. Tania says: “Jesus told his followers to ‘love your neighbour’. In everything we do as a church we want to open our hearts to all and show the

amazing love of Jesus to those who need it most. Jesus invites everyone to ‘come and see’, and that is our invitation too.”

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First community event: Building a bug house in the church grounds

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September 2021

Schools

Green light given for rebuild of Patchway Community School

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ocal politicians, councillors and school leaders are celebrating the news that a proposed scheme to rebuild Patchway Community School has been selected to receive funding through the government’s School Rebuilding Programme.

The school is one of 50 named in the second wave of the Prime Minister’s ten-year rebuilding programme to “level up” opportunities for all, with 500 new schools across the country set to be delivered over the coming decade by the initiative.

Most of the confirmed projects are expected to complete within three to five years.

The final amount of funding that will be made available for

the Patchway school is still to be confirmed. According to a government press release, “funding for individual projects in the programme will be determined when the scope and delivery plans at each school are developed.”

Improving school standards is a priority of South Gloucestershire Council’s Conservative administration, which has plans to make £78 million of capital investment to build new and upgrade existing school buildings across the district.

The plan to rebuild the Patchway school reflects not just the need for more modern facilities but also the increasing need for greater school provision

Dave Baker (Olympus Academy Trust CEO; 3rd from left) and Karen Cornick (headteacher; 4th from left) celebrate the news with local councillors

to support new housing developments planned for the Bristol North Fringe over the coming years.

As one of the schools funded through the rebuilding programme, the new school building will be ‘net zero carbon’ in operation, similar to others being delivered by South Gloucestershire Council in Lyde Green, Frenchay and Winterbourne.

This announcement follows the decision made last September by the council to progress plans for the rebuild, alongside the creation of a secondary school on the new Filton Airfield development.

Jack Lopresti MP said: “I am thrilled that, after years of campaigning, we have secured funding for a rebuild of Patchway Community School.”

“Three of my children went there and it’s a fantastic school.

However, it has been held back by the poor quality of the buildings, which are no longer fit for purpose. The team at Olympus Academy Trust and in the school have done a great job keeping them running, but finally we can see a new building on the horizon.”

“It’s great that Patchway will be brought up to the same standard of building as local schools and I can’t wait to see it take shape.”

Dave Baker, chief executive of Olympus Academy Trust, said: “The Trust is absolutely delighted that a much needed and long overdue rebuild will now take place to give the Patchway community the kind of facilities that they need and deserve.”

“We are grateful to all who have supported us in making representations and for helping others to see Patchway Community School’s need.” ● www.patchwaycs.org.uk

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News

Volunteers sought for local Poppy Appeal

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he Stoke Gifford Branch of the Royal British Legion (RBL) is hoping to return to having a normal Poppy Appeal this year.

The branch would like to thank the public, branch members and volunteers, businesses and other organisations for their help and generosity throughout the Appeal. And, of course, thank you to the great local media who do so much to help us raise so much money and help us raise the profile of our welfare work so we can reach more people who need our help.

The branch would love to repeat its previous successes for the 2021/22 Poppy Appeal.

The money raised for the Poppy Appeal goes to the RBL’s Welfare Volunteers collecting at the Willow Brook Centre, Bradley Stoke [Archive image] Fund, which is used to give help and support to current and collecting tins around the area in All this requires volunteers! ex- service personnel and their many shops, businesses and retail The Stoke Gifford branch needs families. areas as well as the University of more of them to look after stalls Winter ad.qxp_Layout 16:24 Page 1 campus.

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Saturday 30th October until Saturday 13th November.

If you would like to volunteer for the branch as a collector during the Poppy Fortnight, we would love to hear from you!

To volunteer to collect for this year’s Poppy Appeal, please contact us by email on rblstokegifford@gmail.com or phone organiser Tony Peters on 0117 947 0775 The local Poppy Appeal launch event will be held in the foyer of Bristol Parkway Station on Friday October 29th at 2pm.

The Festival of Remembrance will be in November at a date to be confirmed.

Please note we are always looking for new branch members, not necessarily ex-service personnel. Do get in touch if you are interested in joining us by using the above contact details for further information. ● Facebook: @StokeGiffordRBL

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Indemnities may be required. Finance subject to status to over 18s. Other finance offers are available but cannot be used in conjunction with this offer. Offer may be varied or withdrawn at any time. 8,000 miles per annum, excess miles over contracted charged at 9p per mile. Toyota Centres are independent of Toyota Financial Services. Participating Toyota Centres. Affordable finance through AccessToyota (PCP). Terms and conditions apply. Toyota Financial Services may pay the Toyota Centre a commission for introducing you to them. Commission may be calculated based on either a fixed amount relating to the vehicle you are financing, a percentage of the amount you borrow, or a combination of both. Toyota Financial Services may also make other types of payment to the Toyota Centres for introducing you to them. Any such amounts will not affect the amounts you pay to Toyota Financial Services under your finance agreement. .This Centre is acting as a credit broker and not a lender. ^T&Cs apply. †Available on selected grades. We may receive a payment(s) or other benefits from finance providers should you decide to enter into an agreement with them. The payment we receive may vary between finance providers and product types. The payment received does not impact the finance rate offered. All finance applications are subject to status, terms and conditions apply, UK residents only, 18s or over, guarantees may be required.

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News

MoD Abbey Wood celebrates 25 years

A view of part of the site today, looking across one of the lakes

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he sprawling Ministry of Defence (MoD) complex at Abbey Wood, known to some as the ‘UK’s Pentagon’ has celebrated its 25th anniversary.

The purpose-built site houses the MoD Defence Equipment and Support (DE&S) procurement organisation. It was opened

by Queen Elizabeth II in July 1996, after which 15 government departments relocated to it from existing bases in Portsmouth, Weymouth, Bath and London.

Prior to the coronavirus pandemic, 8,500 people travelled to work at MoD Abbey Wood, in roles such as supplying kit to UK forces posted overseas and researching the latest military technology.

The campus cost £250 million to build and has been described as “the most progressive public sector office complex built in

Britain for a generation”.

It was a colossal task to build MoD Abbey Wood, with workers having to install 30,000 light fittings and 2,600 doors to 13 buildings, including the unique croissant-shaped structures that appeared on the 120,000 sqm site and within its 3km (1.86 mile) perimeter.

To avoid it becoming a ‘faceless’ base, a decision was taken to install a lake as protection rather than a high fence. Filled with 30 million litres of water, the lake also acts as flood defence and a haven for local wildlife including cormorants, newts and kingfishers.

DE&S CEO Sir Simon Bollom said: “It’s a very exciting time in defence and we are enjoying the challenge of working with industry to innovate and deliver

Photo: DE&S Aerial view of the MoD Abbey Wood site in 1996, looking south

cutting-edge equipment at pace to stay one step ahead of our adversaries, while also delivering best value to the taxpayer.”

“With so many interesting roles, opportunities and projects available, including apprentice and graduate programmes, I truly believe MoD Abbey Wood is one of the very best places to work in the region.”

Cllr Toby Savage, leader of South Gloucestershire Council

added: “Abbey Wood is the largest employer in South Gloucestershire and is a valued asset to our district, bringing thousands of high-skilled jobs and contributing to our vibrant local economy.”

“We are proud of the many years of history that the MoD has here in South Gloucestershire, with many employees living in the area and being integral to our local communities.”

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September 2021

News

Little Stoke Scouts set for September restart

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ittle Stoke Beavers, Cubs and Scouts are all set to restart their face-to-face programme after having had to meet via Zoom for the last 18 months. The leaders and children are all keen to get back to fun Scouting activities and enjoying the outdoors as much as possible after being ‘locked down’ for so long.

The headquarters of 1st Little Stoke Group is located off Rossall Avenue, next to the children’s play area in Little Stoke Park. As we went to press, parents were getting the building ready for the youngsters through a weekend of cleaning and decorating.

The Beavers, Cubs and Scouts will be returning to a building that has been much improved over the period of the Covid-19 pandemic. The meeting room has

been refurbished and the toilets have been replaced. We now have toilet facilities suitable for the disabled and nappy changing facilities for our younger visitors.

The hall has also been equipped with a state-of-the-art movie screen and projector.

A large part of the monies for these projects was raised as a result of the work of Mike Hill, the group’s chairman, who instigated an appeal to the National Lottery which yielded £4,464. As a result of the hard work undertaken by Mike, he has been awarded a special enamelled pin from district commissioner Clive Mason.

The group has had many requests to join over the lockdown period and many new members are going to join us in September, along with six new

Mike Hill (left), chairman of 1st Little Stoke Scout Group, receives a commendation award from district commissioner Clive Mason

leaders who have joined the group as volunteers to ensure that their and other people’s children get the Scouting they want. The group is very full at present but is able to welcome children if they have a parent who is willing to volunteer with the leadership team.

Our headquarters building

is available for hire at very reasonable cost. We particularly welcome groups working in the education field who have young people as their clients.

If you would like to get your child into scouting or hire the building, please email Group Scout Leader Tony Edmonds on tonyedmonds108@yahoo.com

Stoke Gifford Journal

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September 2021

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25

News Firefighters called to blazing car under fuel station canopy

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ppliances from three Bristol fire stations attended a worrying incident at the Sainsbury’s petrol filling station in Fox Den Road, Stoke Gifford at 12.53pm on Thursday 26th August, following reports of a car on fire.

A photo posted on social media (far right) showed concerned shoppers standing at the entrance to the Sainsbury’s store looking over to the filling station, where a car was ablaze, causing the space under the canopy to become filled with smoke.

Crews from Temple, Bedminster, Patchway and Kingswood were mobilised to attend the scene.

A fire service spokesperson said: “On arrival, firefighters found one car well alight under a petrol forecourt canopy, multiple fuel pumps and the canopy were affected by fire and smoke.”

“Firefighters used two high pressure hose reels, one 45mm covering jet, one 45mm safety jet and a turntable ladder to extinguish the blaze. Four firefighters wore breathing apparatus for safety.”

“The cause of the fire is thought to be accidental.”

A further photo taken after the incident showed a burnt-out car and severe smoke damage to the fuel station canopy.

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Photos: R Forsey

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September 2021

Get well · Stay well

by Reynold Cruziah, physiotherapist at Willow Brook Clinic

What is good sitting posture?

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itting in front of a computer for extended periods of time is increasingly becoming part of our normal daily routine. Our sitting posture is often incorrect and can be a major factor in muscle and joint pain.

Correct seated posture is the position in which there is least strain placed on supporting muscles, joints and ligaments.

Good posture boosts your self-confidence and helps keep your mind and body healthy. If your posture isn’t optimal, your muscles have to work harder to keep you upright and balanced.

Some muscles will become tight and others will become weak.

Over time, these dysfunctional adaptations impair your body’s ability to deal with the forces on it. This inflicts extra wear and tear on your joints and ligaments, slows down the blood circulation, lowers your energy level and makes some organs, like your lungs, less efficient.

Researchers have linked poor sitting posture to neck, back, shoulder and knee pain.

Prolonged incorrect sitting posture can even influence your emotional state and cause tension headaches.

Try these tips to improve the way you sit, especially if slouching at your desk has become a habit: • Adjust your computer screen so it’s at, or slightly below, eye level

the place for you…

• Sit with your bottom right at the back of your seat and resting well against the back support of your chair • Keep your neck vertical, not tilted forward • Relax your shoulders, don’t allow them to elevate or round.

• Rest your forearms on your desk with your elbows at a 90 degree angle • Adjust your chair to position your knees level with your hips and have your feet flat on the floor; use a footstool or other support if needed It’s not enough to just have good posture. Keeping your muscles and joints moving is extremely important. Nothing beats getting away from your desk for a walk, but when that’s not possible, mobilise your spine and reduce the feeling of stiffness in your body.

Moving more throughout the day can help keep your weight at a healthy level and limit your chances of developing a number of illnesses. If you’re really worried, check with our experienced practitioners. Sit less, move more and be active.

The Willow Brook Clinic East Offices The Willow Brook Centre Bradley Stoke www.willowbrookclinic.co.uk

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Schools

“Strong” GCSE outcomes at Abbeywood School

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tudents at Stoke Gifford’s Abbeywood Community School have once again registered “strong” outcomes in their GCSE assessments.

With no official examinations having been sat this year because of the coronavirus emergency, a Teacher Assessed Grade process was used to determine outcomes.

This considered students’ performance in mock exams and classroom tests, coursework, homework and portfolio work.

A school spokesperson said: “Abbeywood Community School has a strong track record of academic excellence and this year, despite the difficulties faced, is no different. Students have achieved incredibly well across the full range of GCSE and Level 2 qualifications; outcomes have been strong but so has the progress of our students from their starting points. Students have responded positively to the dedication of staff and we are delighted that students have gained some outstanding results.

Students will be continuing at

Abbeywood or leaving for new destinations with academic success and as bright, mature and responsible young people.”

Ben Dilley, associate headteacher, said, “We are extremely proud of our Year 11 students and all that they have achieved during their time at Abbeywood Community School.

This has been an incredibly challenging year for them, given the unprecedented circumstances of the Covid-19 pandemic and the disruption to their two years of GCSE studies. Students have been courageous and resilient in their learning, attributes that will undoubtedly contribute to their future success.”

“It is important to recognise the excellent support from families and the dedication from our teaching and support staff, who work relentlessly to provide the highest standard of education and wellbeing support, and who have been instrumental in raising student aspirations.”

Speaking on results day (Thursday 12th August), Richard

Archive image

Bendry, Key Stage 4 leader, commented: “There was a fabulous atmosphere in school this morning as our students came in to collect their results.

They have worked hard on their studies throughout their time at Abbeywood and have also developed as well-rounded, confident and positive young

people. They have continued to astound us with their positivity and relentless drive to succeed.

I would like to congratulate them and look forward to September, when most will return to our sixth form, when we will also be welcoming lots of students from other schools too!” ● www.abbeywoodschool.com

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September 2021

What’s On

News

Next Stoke Gifford community forum

Siblings take on marathon challenge

The next Community Engagement Forum (CEF) for Stoke Gifford, Stoke Park and Cheswick takes place via a digital platform (Microsoft Teams) on Tuesday 21st September, starting at 7pm.

South Gloucestershire Council’s CEFs, previously known as Safer and Stronger Community Groups, are about listening and responding to local people’s real issues. People in their communities know best what works for them and what their real needs are.

CEFs have been developed through working with various partner agencies including Avon & Somerset Police, Avon Fire & Rescue, health authorities, town & parish councils and local organisations.

To find out more, visit www. southglos.gov.uk/cef or phone the community engagement team on 01454 868113.

brother and sister from Little Stoke will be running the Bristol Half Marathon later this month to raise funds for a charity which supports families that, like their own, have been affected by military suicide.

The siblings’ family had their lives completely devastated in May 2020 when their brother, Nathan Worner, tragically took his own life following a battle with mental health illness.

Nathan was a serving soldier, a Rifleman based at Bulford barracks in Wiltshire. He was just 20 years old.

Six weeks after Nathan’s untimely death, his friend and colleague Mitchell Matthews also took his own life. Mitchell was based at 5 Rifles with Nathan. He was just 24 years old, married and had a young daughter.

Following the deaths of the soldiers, Nathan’s mum, Alison

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Blackwell was contacted by a lady named Jo Jukes. Jo lost her veteran husband, Lance Corporal David Jukes to suicide after a battle with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Jo is the founder of For The Fallen, a community interest company (CIC) dedicated to supporting families affected by military suicide. Jo, very admirably and bravely, set up a support group for families whilst dealing with her own devastating grief.

Alison said: “Suicide within the military and veteran community is a huge problem and so many lives are being shattered by deaths that can be so preventable. My own experience has completely rocked our world, suicide changes the dynamics of family life and impacts on the mental health of families. We are left with so many unanswered questions and haunted by the trauma we have suffered.”

Nathan Worner with mum Alison at his passing out parade

“If it wasn’t for Jo Jukes and her unwavering support, I have no idea where I would be

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News

… in memory of brother who took own life Continued from facing page

right now, I have been given so much advice, support and help from people who have sadly experienced the exact same ordeal as myself.”

She added: “This is a group that has suffered such devastating loss, but every person is dedicated to raising awareness of mental health illness and breaking the stigma associated with suicide” Since the death of her son Nathan, Alison Blackwell has become a director of For The Fallen.

On 19th September 2021 Alison’s eldest son Tyler Worner and her daughter Gemma Worner will be joined by Nathan’s friend’s Jake & Mitchell Tovey and Dan Watkins to take part in the Bristol Half Marathon, through which they are hoping to raise £800 for For The Fallen.

All five are completely new to long distance running and have admitted it’s a massive challenge for them. Gemma joined North Bristol Running Group to help with her training schedule but unfortunately suffered a knee injury a couple of months ago.

She was out of action for some weeks but is back to training hard as the run is fast approaching.

Both Tyler and Gemma are feeling quite emotional about running in the half marathon. It became apparent shortly after Nathan’s death that he had planned to take part in the 2020 Bristol Half Marathon to raise

funds for a charity dedicated to veterans suffering with PTSD. Tyler and Gemma are so proud that friends have volunteered to join them in honour of their brother Nathan and his friend Mitchell Matthews. Tyler said: “As my brother and Mitchell were trained soldiers, I’m pretty sure 13.1 miles would be a walk in the park to them, but to us this is a huge challenge and I just hope we all do him and Mitchell proud.

Life since my brother died has been an agonising journey and one I wouldn’t wish on anyone.”

Gemma added: “I hope alongside reaching our target of £800, we can also raise awareness of mental health and encourage people who are struggling to reach out. Far too many soldiers and veterans are dying through suicide unnecessarily. The need to normalise mental health illness is crucial.”

A fundraising page named ‘Families Affected By Military Suicide’ has been set up at gofund.me/6c5c1d29

Gemma Worner and Tyler Worner, with the race numbers and t-shirts they will be wearing when they take part in the 2021 Bristol Half Marathon

Alison concluded: “For The Fallen is fighting relentlessly to break the stigma associated with mental health problems and suicide. All monies raised

will ensure the much-needed support can continue for every single family affected by military suicide.” ● forthefallen.co.uk

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