travel
Pg 10 - 11
environment Pg 15
Bristol news
days out Pg 16 - 18
arts pg 22
July ‘08 issue #1
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ÂŁ70 million boost for public transport The work to improve public transport corridors and ease congestion in the West of England partnership area will go ahead, thanks to an award of ÂŁ42 million has been announced by Transport Minister Rosie Winterton to fund the next stage of the Greater Bristol Bus Network. Ten new route corridors and over 70 bus routes within the West of England Partnership area will now benefit from local improvements.The improvements will start in summer with work on the M32 bus lane - improving punctuality and reliability for buses into Bristol without reducing any road space for cars. The final details of changes to all routes are not yet finalised and passengers, local residents and local business will be fully consulted about proposals. Regular updates will be provided to keep people informed of progress, timings of future consultations and completion of key milestones. Continues pg 2
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2 LOCAL NEWS
July ‘08 issue
£70 million boost for public transport
Continued from pg 1
The total cost of the upgrades is £70 million comprising £42 million from the Department of Transport, £20 million from local bus company, First, with £6 million from developer contributions, with the balance funded by the four local councils. The benefits of similar improvements can already be seen on the Henbury to Hartcliffe showcase route 1 and Bristol centre to Cadbury Heath showcase route 2, with the increase in passenger usage. Cllr Helen Holland, Leader of Bristol City Council and Chair of the West of England Partnership said: “A high quality bus network is a top priority if we are going to successfully tackle congestion in our city and across the West of England. The new cleaner buses on faster routes will make a noticeable difference to bus journey times and encourage more people to use public transport in and around Bristol. It’s not just bus passengers who will benefit. The programme will enable us to improve pedestrian and cycle access and safety - and design more attractive street environments that will ensure better neighbourhoods for all.” Responding to the Greater Bristol Bus Network award, Cllr Charles Gerrish, Bath and North
East Somerset Council Cabinet Member for Customer Services commented: “Bath and North East Somerset Council welcomes this funding award to enhance the bus travel experience. It reflects our aspiration to improve transport by increasing local bus passenger journeys and reducing congestion, particularly journey times during the morning peak. We have already begun technical work on improvements to the Hicks Gate, Keynsham roundabout and conducted consultation on how best to implement the improvements on the Wellsway, Bath. We are engaging and communicating with local residents on how best to improve our bus network.” Cllr Elfan Ap Rees, Deputy Leader and Executive Member for Strategic Planning, Highways and Economic Development at North Somerset said: “For North Somerset this is one small step in the transport infrastructure, which we hope will give residents more confidence in the reliability and quality of the bus service on two of our key routes. Nevertheless, we will be continuing to press for further improvements for bus, rail and private car users over the coming months, including a new rail link for Portishead and improvements at junctions 21 and 19 of the M5. I hope to make further announcements on these improvements later this year.” Cllr John Calway, Leader of South Gloucestershire Council, added: “We are delighted with the announcement which will deliver a high
As part of the Greater Bristol Bus Network (GBBN) programme the following routes will be significantly improved: + M32, from south of Junction 2 to Bristol city centre + A4018 Bristol to Cribbs Causeway + A4018 Bristol to Cribbs Causeway via Parkway and North Fringe + A432 Bristol to Yate + A4 Bristol to Bath + A37 Bristol to Midsomer Norton and Radstock + A4174 Avon Ring Road + A370 Bristol to Weston-super-Mare + A369 Bristol to Portishead + A367 Bath to Midsomer Norton and Radstock
quality public transport network for our residents. A lot of hard work by the four local authorities has gone into ensuring this scheme was approved by the Government. Working with our partners we are committed to tackling congestion, poor air quality and the challenges that climate change presents. This project will lead to a greater choice of bus routes, modern low emission vehicles, new bus shelters
and real time information and, faster and more frequent services.” Justin Davies, Managing Director, First Bristol and First Somerset and Avon said, “This funding announcement is very welcome and we look forward to working with our partners as this programme develops so that we can provide a safe, reliable and punctual bus service across the area.”
Improvements brought about under GBBN will include: + Bus priority measures such as new bus lanes and intelligent traffic signals to minimise delays and improve journey times. + New buses with easy access low floors, lower emissions and improved comfort and cleanliness. + Real time information where and when passengers need it. + Simple and easy to understand information to put bus users in control of their travel options. + Improved links to and from park and ride sites. + More services and new routes where there is most demand. + New shelters with raised kerbs, improved lighting, seating and CCTV to improve access, comfort and cleanliness. + Improved maintenance and service agreements will ensure buses and shelters remain clean and damage free.
LOCAL NEWS 3
July ‘08 issue
Jonathan Creek one-off special Alan Davies is set to return as Jonathan Creek for a one-off special written by David Renwick, due for transmission later this year on BBC One. The popular, award-winning comedy drama about the adventures of Jonathan Creek, the master of illusion who uses his brilliance and intellect to explain the unexplainable, begins filming this summer with guest star Sheridan Smith (Love Soup; Two Pints Of Lager And A Packet Of Crisps). Alan Davies says: “For the last five years whenever I’ve passed a locked room I’ve thought there might be a mystery lurking behind it, so I’m very happy to return to Jonathan Creek and to have something to actually solve. ‘I’m also chuffed that Sheri-
dan Smith is joining us, she’s going to be great.” Writer David Renwick adds: “After a five-year break I think we’re all looking forward to getting Creek back on the screen and the BBC appear to be quite excited, so fingers crossed.” When Creek is called in to solve unexplained events in a vast Gothic house, following several disappearances inside a gloomy old attic known as “The Nightmare Room”, he is completely baffled. For 70 years the room has been claiming lives. Could the ghost of a madman who preys upon human flesh really be to blame? When two young women take shelter there from a raging thunderstorm one night, it’s not long before the ominous “presence” has claimed
another victim. Determined to get to the truth about what has happened to her friend, the fearlessly sceptical Joey Ross (Sheridan Smith) finds herself working alongside veteran lateral thinker Jonathan Creek. Together they embark on a complex, often dangerous, investigation into a mystery which only continues to deepen... Can Jonathan Creek once again shed light on the riddle and render the impossible possible? Or are his once formidable powers of deduction about to be eclipsed by the raw intuition of his younger counterpart? Lucy Lumsden, Controller, Comedy Commissioning, says: “We’re delighted to have Jonathan Creek back on BBC One and with the addition of Sheridan Smith we should be in for a real treat.”
Image courtesy BBC
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Sculptors from the World Sand Sculpting Academy (WSSA) will arrive in Westonsuper-Mare at the end of this month. They will spend two weeks creating their masterpieces for the Sand Sculpting Festival 2008, and the results will be on display until September. This year’s festival will take place on the beach at Weston between the beach office and the Seaquarium and promises to be even bigger and better than previous years. The world-renowned sculptors are looking forward to returning to Weston. “The sand is great to work with and we always receive a warm welcome and a great response to our work in Weston.” said Marcel Elsjan of Wipper, chief executive officer of the WSSA. Nicola, one of the sculptors from last year’s event, went on to win a gold medal at the 2007 Harrisand World Championship in Canada. She will be returning to the beach this summer to create a world-class sculpture. Also returning will be Leonardo who created the Rapunzel sculpture, admired by many of the visitors to last year’s festival. Cllr Elfan Ap Rees,deputy leader, said: “This event, now in its third year, is organised by our Tourism and Events and Ranger teams, but has only been made possible by the generous support of Wookey Hole Caves, Birse Civils, The Grand Pier and Weston Town Council.”
4 LOCAL NEWS
July ‘08 issue
Smallest species of deer born at Bristol Zoo Gardens A baby pudu, the world’s smallest species of deer, has been born at Bristol Zoo Gardens. The baby southern pudu is just one month old and has recently ventured out into his paddock with mum and dad for the first time. Born weighing just 1kg (2.2lbs), the tiny youngster is part of an international conservation breeding programme. He now weighs around 2kgs (4.4lbs) and, as with all pudu fawns, has distinctive white spotted markings on his back which help to camouflage him. Keeper and overseer of small mammals, Caroline Brown, said: “Our new arrival is still very shy and is staying close to mum, Bramble, and dad, Demitrio. He is still suckling, but is growing very well and will soon start eating greens, pellet and fruit.
He is also starting to explore the paddock independently and as he gets bigger he will become more confident.” Pudus are classified as a vulnerable species. They live in lowland temperate rainforests in Chile and south-west Argentina but their numbers have declined due to their rainforest habitat being destroyed and cleared for cattle ranching and other human developments, as well as natural predators such as pumas and foxes. They are the world’s smallest species of deer, standing at 38cm at the shoulder when fully grown and weighing around 9-15kg (20-33lbs). A male’s antlers only grow to 10cm long. Find out more at: www.bristolzoo.org.uk
Tribute paid to Margot Boyd of The Archers The distinguished actress Margot Boyd, who played Mrs Antrobus for 20 years in BBC Radio 4’s The Archers, has died at the age of 94. Margot Boyd, who was born Beryl Billings on 24 September 1913, was brought up in Bath in Somerset. Before making the role of countrywoman Mrs Antrobus her own, her career had saw her work with some of the great names of theatre and film including George Bernard Shaw, Noel Coward, Michael Redgrave, Vivian Leigh, James Stewart and Kenneth More. Vanessa Whitburn, Editor of The Archers, said: “Margot Boyd joined The Archers in 1984 as the robust Mrs Antrobus who bred Afghan hounds and became a popular and much admired character in the series for 20 years. ‘I greatly enjoyed working with Margot, she was always a consummate professional who had en-
joyed a distinguished theatrical and film career as well as a long career in radio drama. “My thoughts and best wishes are with her family and friends at this sad time.” Margot Boyd attended RADA where she found herself in a play produced by George Bernard Shaw whom she found “wonderful” and
“very encouraging”. When she left RADA she got a job in rep at Leeds Theatre Royal, twice nightly playing a leading lady. She recalled it never seemed to involve a part under the age of 55 but it gave her the opportunity to play in all the productions from the West End. In 1984, while working for the BBC Radio Drama Company, Margot was given a small one-off part in The Archers and made such a success of it that she was written into the programme as a regular character. Marjorie Antrobus lived in Waterley Cross and gave a talk to The Over-60s club in Ambridge. Her subject was “The Colourful World of the Afghan Hound”.
“...she was always a consummate professional...” The talk was so well appreciated that she was asked back to open the village fete in July – when she gave another talk on dogs and from which she acquired the nickname of
“The Dog woman”. Marjorie was so at home in Ambridge that she moved into Nightingale Farm in February 1988, where she lived until her move into the nursing home The Laurels in 2002. Marjorie was last heard on The Archers in The Omnibus that was transmitted on 19 September 2004. Margot Boyd always said that most of her major career moves had been down to luck. After working with Michael Redgrave in Stratford in 1953, he put on Noel Coward’s Waiting In The Wings and Margot was given the leading role. When the production moved to Dublin, Coward – already in his late sixties – was there for four weeks and the two became firm friends. Her other credits include her own series Our Miss Pemberton in the early days of television; Middlemarch; Dixon Of Dock Green with Jack Warner; and The Forty Nine Steps with Kenneth More. Margot Boyd died at Denville Hall, Northwood, Middlesex.
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6 education
July ‘08 issue
Double launch to benefit young people Student language exchange is back – and there’s a new guide for teenagers travelling abroad
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Teenagers looking to travel abroad on organised school trips and student language exchange programmes are set to benefit from two new initiatives – Travel Safe, an essential guide to young travellers abroad and the relaunch of the Bristol-Bordeaux student exchange scheme. The launch in Bristol of the new guide and the re-launch of the Bristol-Bordeaux student exchange scheme has been organised by the city council’s youth and play services. Schools and members of staff responsible for co-ordinating school visits were invited to the evening event. Also attending were young people who had previously been on the BristolBordeaux student exchange, they talked about their experiences and what they got out of the exchange visits. Organisers from Bordeaux were also present, including: Arlette Izac, Presidente of the Bordeaux/Bristol Association and teacher, Agnes LeBeau from Bordeaux. Travel Safe The Travel Safe guide has been produced by Child-Safe International Ltd, a charity dedicated to promoting personal safety for young people travelling abroad. It has the backing of the police, the Home Office, The British Council, The Suzy Lamplugh Trust and the Foreign Commonwealth Office. “The Travel Safe guide is essentially a handbook of good practice for young people travelling as part of an organised group, “ says Chris Gould, Chief Executive of Child-Safe. “Carrying ID and contact details, staying safe, being prepared and what to do in an emergency is all covered in the guide. “I would urge all young people travelling abroad with school or clubs to read the guide and complete the personal safety card – and carry it with them at all times.”
Bordeaux/Bristol student exchange The guide’s launch coincides with Bristol’s re-launch of the Bristol-Bordeaux student exchange scheme. For over 60 years, Bristol – and its twinned city, Bordeaux – have been organising language student exchanges. In the past five years, an estimated 600 students from schools in Bristol and the sub region have visited Bordeaux to stay with host families and improve their French language skills. And – in the same five-year period, an estimated 600 students from Bordeaux have journeyed to Bristol to experience our way of life and culture. The student exchange programme is aimed at pupils aged, 13 to 18 and is designed to support language skills, boost confidence and create new learning opportunities. The exchange programme receives generous sponsorship from Bristol International Airport, who have supported the Bristol/Bordeaux exchange since 2005. Becky Harris, Year 13 pupil and former exchange student, said: “The Bristol-Bordeaux exchange was a great opportunity to live with a French family and improve my French in preparation for my exams. And it was fun having my French exchange student come over to Bristol and stay and meet my friends.” The next Bristol-Bordeaux student exchange will take place during the Easter and summer holidays in 2009. “I’m delighted to see the Bristol-Bordeaux student exchange back on offer to local students,” says Cllr Rosalie Walker, executive member for health and leisure. “These exchange programmes support young people’s learning and are a real boost to both GCSE and A level French. Thanks must go to Bristol International Airport for their continued support. “The publication of the Travel Safe guide is a must for any teenager travelling abroad on a school trip or exchange. It gives them sound advice about personal safety – and will reassure families that young people are well-equipped to travel safely and with confidence.”
July ‘08 issue
education 7
Bath & North East Somerset Council Schools Lead the Way in School Meals Free swimming to be legacy of 2012 games
Three schools in Bath and North East Somerset are among the first in the country to be awarded prestigious Food For Life Partnership (FFLP) awards.
A new £140 million fund to boost sport and fitness through free swimming for over 60s was announced today as the centre-piece of St John’s Primary School in Midthe government’s plan to ensure a lasting sporting legacy from the somer Norton, Oldfield Park Infants London 2012 Olympic Games and Paralympic Games. School in Bath, and Twerton Infants School have each achieved the FFLP Teenagers looking to travel Olympics Minister, Tessa Jowell Bronze Award for good food culture abroad oThe initiative was part said: “My ambition has always and education, by serving seasonal of a package of measures in the been that the Games will offer school meals with 75% of dishes be‘Legacy Action Plan: Before, Dur- not just a great summer of sport, ing freshly prepared. ing and After: Making the most of but the prize of changing people’s Gabriel Scally, Regional Dithe London 2012 Games’, which lives for the better for generarector of Public Health, and Emma was unveiled today by Olympics tions to come.” Today we are demonstrat- Noble, Food For Life Partnership diMinister Tessa Jowell, Secretary rector, will present the schools with of State for Culture, Media and ing how we will turn the rhetoric their awards on Friday 6 June at St Sport, Andy Burnham and Sec- of the 2012 legacy into fact. There John’s Primary School . retary of State for Health, Alan is something for everyone in our The Food for Life Partnership plans - every part of the country, Johnson. is a five-year Big Lottery-funded The plan, which builds on every section of the population. initiative, launched in September the five legacy promises made Ten million people stand to ben2007, to transform food culture in last year, includes new pro- efit from our exciting free swimover 3,600 schools and communigrammes and builds on existing ming plan alone. I hope that this ties across England. The partnerones which have been enhanced is just the beginning and that by ship is led by the Soil Association and inspired by the UK’s hosting 2012 we can offer free swimming and brings together the practical exto all.” of the Games. pertise of the Focus on Food Campaign, Garden Organic and the Key announcements include: Health Education Trust. Their mission is to reach out through schools + encouraging Local Authorities to open up nearly 1,600 publicly to give communities access to seaowned swimming pools free to over 60s in England through a new sonal, local and organic food, and £140 million fund; using the fund as a ‘challenge fund’ to encourto the skills they need to cook and age Local Authorities to offer free swimming to under-16s and to grow fresh food for themselves. rejuvenate and maintain pools Emma Noble, Food For Life Partnership director, said: “In less + committing to meeting a target of getting two million people more than a year these schools have made active by 2012 amazing changes to the way they source and serve school dinners. Not + overhauling the way Sport England invests in sport through new, only are an increasing number of more effective relationships with national governing bodies and pupils enjoying healthier, seasonal working through county sports partnerships will deliver a subschool meals, but they are learning stantial increase in sports participation about where their food comes from and how to grow and cook it for + working with the fitness industry to offer a “Fit for the Future” themselves. This is what we mean incentive scheme for 16-22 year olds to address the drop off in by transforming food culture. sport and physical activity in school leavers “Bath and North East Somerset deserve great credit for the sup+ introducing a £7 million programme of campaigns to encourage port they have shown these and other people to walk more each day - including a Schools Walking schools in the region, for instance by Challenge to encourage more children to walk to and outside changing their egg supplier to freeschool - and investing £75 million in a targeted social marketing range local eggs.” programme to support parents in changing children’s diet and Since September last year, St John’s increasing levels of physical activity Primary School has re-launched its
dining room. Year 5 and 6 pupils act as ‘happy lunchtime helpers’, assisting younger children with their food and serving their fellow pupils with desserts. The school has also introduced a raised bed organic garden for each of the year groups, revamped their cooking area and started a cooking club, with the help of staff, children, the community and the Food for Life Partnership. Oldfield Park Infants School has seen its uptake of school meal rocket by over 20 per cent since it started following the Food for Life Partnership Mark last October. Twerton Infants School has held cooking classes for parents and is also about to re-launch its dining room. Carolyn Banfield, headteacher at St John’s Primary School, said: “Achieving the award is the results of hard work, commitment and enthusiasm from both staff and children. Growing and cooking food, and visiting the farm, have made us all much more aware of the pleasures and benefits of healthy eating.” Councillor Chris Watt, Bath & North East Somerset Council’s Cabinet Member for Children’s Services, said: “As a Council we are very proud that our schools are leading the way. We are working with all our local schools to help deliver quality, local food where possible and it is our aim for all Bath and North East Somerset schools to achieve the FFLP bronze award. This is part of our commitment as a Council to developing healthier communities for the future.” All schools in England can enroll with the Food for Life Partnership and work towards Bronze, Silver and Gold Marks for good food culture, rewarding everything from seasonal, local and organic meals to cooking and growing activity and links with farms [3]. The Bronze Award requires 22 criteria to be satisfied, including no undesirable additives or hydrogenated fats in meals and parents being given the opportunity to attend school lunches. The three schools are actively working towards their Silver and Gold Awards.
8 money
July ‘08 issue
Loan shark hotline launched New Hotline Help For Victims Of Loan Sharks - 0300 1234 247
A new hotline to report illegal moneylenders has been launched to help victims of Loan Sharks in Bristol and across the South West. The hotline on 0300 1234 247 - which will be manned 24 hours a day, 7 days a week - forms part of a major crackdown on illegal money lenders by Bristol’s new specialist team. The dedicated South West Illegal Money Lending Team is being led by Bristol City Council Trading Standards but will cover the whole of the South West. Illegal moneylenders, better known as ‘loan sharks’, often claim to be providing a community service, befriending people with debt worries and those in deprived areas. Offered an apparent short-term lifeline, their victims are then likely to find themselves faced with extortionate interest rates or unachievable repayment periods. The penalty for non-payment can be intimidation, violence and even being forced into criminal activities such as drug dealing, prostitution and other forms of anti-social behaviour. The team has been set up with Government funding from the Department of Business, Enterprise and Regulatory Reform and forms part of a national campaign to tackle illegal money lending. Led by Alan Evans, who has long experience in fraud investigation through work in the police and with trading stan-
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dards regional Scam Buster services, the new team consists of specialist officers including financial investigators, and two financial inclusion partnership officers. They will gather intelligence to identify loan sharks in order to take effective enforcement action against them. Victims who contact the team will also be offered support and help in removing dependency on these illegal loans. They will be given confidential advice from specially trained debt advisors, and will also be put in touch with legal affordable sources of credit, such as credit unions.
Victims will also be offered support and help in removing dependency on these illegal loans Alan Evans says: “Any information that people can give - anonymously or otherwise - will help us to catch these unscrupulous loan sharks and stop them from preying on people who can least afford it. We are determined to track them down and put them out of business for good, thereby freeing their victims from the burden of endless debt. By tackling these criminals and removing the climate of fear they create, we should also be able to reduce the associated criminal activity, helping to create better neighbourhoods for everyone.” The hotline has been live since the beginning of May. The number 0300 1234 247 is charged at local rate and won’t appear on phone bills. It can be called by victims and anyone else with information from right across the South West, from Gloucestershire to Cornwall to Dorset. People can call it anonymously, or if they prefer, can send a text message. A similar team set up as a pilot in Birmingham has already seen significant success, with guns, drugs and large amounts of cash recovered. A number of loan sharks have been brought to justice on illegal money lending charges, as well as related offences including assault, leading to lengthy prison sentences and action to confiscate all assets acquired from their illegal activity.
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10 travel
July ‘08 issue
Continental Airlines Celebrates 250,000th Passenger
Statue of Liberty - A sight over 1/4 million passengers of Contental Airlines have had the opportunity to see
CONTINENTAL Airlines celebrates 250,000th passenger on its Bristol – New York service As the 250,000th passenger on Continental Airlines’ non-stop service from Bristol to New York, lucky Katherine Bronander from New Jersey, was presented today with a complimentary upgrade to the airline’s award-winning BusinessFirst service. The world’s fifth largest airline, which is also celebrating the third anniversary of its Bristol – New York service, presented Katherine with her upgrade at the Continental Airlines check-in desk at Bristol International Airport. Katherine, a director with a major health company based in New Jersey, said: “It was a fantastic surprise to discover that I am Continental’s quarter of a millionth passenger on the Bristol route. My trip will now be even more enjoyable in BusinessFirst.” Bob Schumacher, Continental Airlines’ Senior Director U.K. & Ireland, commented: “We’re delighted
to include Katherine in our celebrations of such a significant milestone. The Bristol-New York route is now well-established as a unique transAtlantic gateway for the region, providing business and leisure travellers with quicker and easier access not only to the Big Apple but also, via Continental’s hub at Newark Liberty International Airport, to the Americas as a whole.” Paul Kehoe, Chief Executive of Bristol International Airport, said: “For three years Continental Airlines has provided a vital connection between the South West and New York, and the North American continent as a whole. Hundreds of thousands of travellers from this region have enjoyed the sights and experiences of the USA, and large and small companies have been better able to trade with the world’s most powerful economy. “At the same time, American
visitors have enjoyed Bristol International’s proximity to some of the UK’s major tourist attractions, and business travellers have been able to avoid the congested London airports, cutting out unnecessary journeys from the capital by road and rail.
“The Bristol-New York route demonstrates the positive benefits improved connectivity can bring, and I encourage business and leisure travellers to continue taking advantage of the South West and Wales’ only transatlantic service”.
travel 11
July ‘08 issue
Ryanair offers free flights
Ryanair’s new routes from Bristol to Marrakesh, Gdansk & Szczecin - 40,000 free flights no taxes to celebrate*
Ryanair, Europe’s largest low fares airline, has announced 3 new routes from Bristol. The airline will connect Bristol Airport to Marrakech, Gdansk and Szczecin from the end of October 2008. Speaking in Bristol, Ryanair’s Sales and Marketing UK Manager, Bridget Dowling said: “The addition of these 3 fantastic new routes to Marrakesh, Gdansk & Szczecin will mean that Ryanair will serve 22 routes from Bristol by the autumn. Bristolians will be able to choose from a wide range of des-
tinations such as Bergerac, Derry, Knock, Poznan and many more. Once all routes are operational we will deliver 1.1M passengers per annum to Bristol Airport generating £250M customer spend and sustaining 1100 jobs in the surrounding area. While other airlines are busy increasing fuel surcharges, Ryanair is busy guaranteeing the lowest fares and no fuel surcharges ever on any of its new routes. *Routes included in Free Flights No Taxes Offer
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12 health
July ‘08 issue
Wanted: Excellent Care Homes One of the top rated Adult Social Care services in the country is pioneering a new way to drive up standards in Care Homes across Somerset. In what is believed to be a national first, Somerset County Council will pay a new “Quality Premium Payment” to Care Homes according to how well they score in the new Commission for Social Care Inspection (CSCI) ratings. This national system rates Homes from zero to three stars, meaning they are poor, adequate, good or excellent. Care Homes that are rated “Poor” by CSCI will not receive any Quality Premium Payment. Instead, Somerset County Council will offer funding and support linked to specific improvements,
with the intention that they will be rated as “Good” or “Excellent” by CSCI in the future. Clare Steel, Head of Adult Social Care at Somerset County Council, said: “We want to ensure that Somerset’s residents can have good quality social care. Our new system of payment rewards Care Homes that provide a high standard of service and helps others to reach a higher standard.” It is not the first time that Somerset County Council has developed new approaches to improving standards. The Council introduced its own Quality Rating system in 2001 in order to help people make informed choices about the Homes being offered to them. Other Authorities adopted this method and many
will be watching this development with interest. Imelda Richardson, CSCI’s SouthWest Regional Director, said: “CSCI is committed to good-quality care services and we are publishing quality ratings to help members of the public choose services for themselves or their relatives. It is encouraging that Somerset County Council is using the ratings as part of its policy to commission good-quality services.” In another change, Somerset County Council will no longer make any placements to “Poor” rated Care Homes. If a person is already in a Home that is subsequently rated poor, and the Home fails to improve despite Somerset County Council support, that person will be given the choice of moving to a different Home. They may choose to remain in that Home, despite the opinion of the inspectors. Clare Steel explained: “We are committed to respecting the choice of the individual, rather than imposing a one-size-fits-all solution on everyone.”
Alyson Martin, Chair of the Registered Care Providers Association, points out that the great majority of Care Homes in Somerset are performing strongly. She said: “Figures we saw recently indicate that 81 per cent of Care Homes in Somerset are “Good” or “Excellent”. All of us are committed to improving and we welcome Somerset County Council’s positive efforts to help our members raise standards further.” Councillor Justin Robinson, Somerset County Council’s Portfolio-Holder for Health and WellBeing, said: “Most Care Homes in Somerset are run by private or voluntary organisations, so Somerset County Council has to be innovative to get the best services it can for people who need care. I hope that this combination of financial incentives and support, along with the prospect of losing the Council as a customer if standards do not improve, will lead to better Care Homes in the County.”
health 13
July ‘08 issue
Caring For The Carers In South Somerset To celebrate national Carer’s Week carers in South Somerset enjoyed some well-earned rest and recreation. Somerset County Council, in partnership with Carers UK, organised activities for carers in the area. These included a train ride to Weymouth, a day out at Lyme Regis and a buffet lunch at a local pub. They also enjoyed a cream tea at Forde Abbey where a book, written by a Somerset carer about their experiences, was launched on 9 June.
These events gave carers the chance to relax while finding out useful information about the support available to them, and meet with people in a similar situation. Carers are people who give up their time, without pay, to look after a family member, friend, or neighbour who is ill, frail, or has a disability. They come from all backgrounds, and may be a young carer, parent carer, or care for an older person or other adult with care needs. There are nearly 55,000 carers in Somerset and it is estimated that nationally carers save the Country almost £87 billion a year that would otherwise
have to be spent on caring services. Somerset County Council works in partnership with others to provide support for carers such as advice about finances and legal matters, and help with short-term breaks. Justin Robinson, the Council’s Portfolio-Holder for Health and Well-Being, said: “Somerset County Council wants to make all carers aware of the support available to them. I am pleased that these activities have been organised as part of Carer’s Week, which is an important way of raising the profile of the heroic efforts of carers which often go unrecognised.”
“The contribution that carers make is far too often ignored. Let's work together and demand the changes we need in order to make their lives better.” Tony Robinson
WHAT MPs SAY ABOUT CARERS “That this House expresses its admiration for the six million people in the UK who provide unpaid help and support to a relative or friend, who because of frailty, illness or disability, would not otherwise be able to manage; notes that as a consequence of caring disproportionate numbers of people experience ill health, poverty and discrimination, is concerned that large numbers of carers are unknown to statutory agencies and therefore their health needs are often overlooked; notes that Carers Week, a partnership of ten national charities, takes place this year from 9th to 15th June, with the theme ‘Carers can’t afford to be ill’, believes that carers need to be viewed as key partners in community care and need health and social care provision that is accessible and flexible; and notes that in the next two decades the UK will need substantially more carers.” The 2008 Carers Week parliamentary motion above has been tabled by parliamentary champion, Anne Begg MP. Please write to your MP to encourage them to sign the motion.
Review into access to dental services The Council’s Healthier Communities and Older People Overview and Scrutiny Panel is carrying out a review looking at how well local people are able to access NHS dental services. It will explore whether Bath and North East Somerset residents have fair and equal access to NHS dental services; consider the range and availability of services/treatments; examine location (whether residents can access a General Dental Practitioner within five miles in urban areas and 15 miles in rural areas), and ask if there are any “blockages” within the current system. The review will consider these issues in the light of an additional £1 million being invested in general dental provision by the Primary Care Trust. At the end of the review the
panel will make recommendations to the PCT, with a view to improving the current pattern of NHS dental provision in the area, and equality of access to NHS dental services.
“We want to hear from members of the public about their experiences when accessing NHS dental services in Bath and North East Somerset”
Cllr Adrian Inker, Chairman of the cross-party panel, said: “As a local authority with social services responsibilities, Bath & North East Somerset Council also has the power to scrutinise health services. “We want to hear from members of the public about their expe-
riences when accessing NHS dental services in Bath and North East Somerset, so that we can get as much information together as possible before we present our report to the PCT.” Mike Bowden, Associate Director Commissioning, Bath and North East Somerset Primary Care Trust, said: “The PCT welcomes this review and the opportunity to work with the panel on this important issue. We are committed to improving access to NHS dental treatment for Bath and North East Somerset residents. Our investment of £1m into NHS dental provision is already achieving an increase in services with more people now able to access a dentist. We will continue to focus on these improvements.” The panel would welcome comments from members of the public by Friday 11 July, either via
the website www.bathnes.gov.uk/ scrutiny or email scrutiny@bathnes.gov.uk or by post to: Overview and Scrutiny, Guildhall, High Street, Bath, BA1 5AW. The review will not be considering quality of services available, unless it impacts directly on accessibility, or private dental services. Elected Councillors on the cross-party Healthier Communities & Older People panel examine the running and planning of local health services. The Councillors’ role, as representatives of the public, is to hold to account the local Health organisations when they are making big decisions about the future of health care provision in Bath & North East Somerset Find out more at: www.bathnes.gov.uk/scrutiny
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Environment 15
July ‘08 issue
Do used diesel cars still make financial sense?
Green Fuel Pioneers Discuss The Future BIOFUEL pioneers from around the country will gather in Bridgwater next week to take part in a key conference hosted by Somerset County Council. Taking place, at The Exchange, the conference will be attended by representatives from local authorities, public and private organisations that use bioethanol in their transport fleets. It will allow them to share their experiences and discuss how the fuel can be successfully and sustainably used to reduce carbon emissions. As coordinator of the Somerset Biofuels Project, Somerset County Council oversaw the introduction of 41 Flexi-Fuel Vehicles to the County in 2006, ten of which are in the Authority’s own fleet. It is also the UK coordinator of the EU-funded Bioethanol for Sustainable Transport (BEST) Project, which furthers the use of bioethanol as a road transport fuel, thereby reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Delegates will hear from public sector organisations, fuel producers, vehicle manufacturers, Government agencies and leading academics – all working to ensure the benefits of sustainability produced bioethanol, in tackling the twin issues of climate change and security of fuel
supply, are fully realised. The European Commission has established that up to 17 per cent of electricity, heat and transport energy could be supplied from biomass grown in Europe without affecting food production. Ian Bright, Somerset County Council Renewable Energy Officer, said: “Biofuel is not the complete answer to cutting carbon emissions from road transport, but it is a valuable part of the equation and is already making a difference in Somerset. With the right environmental safeguards, biofuel is a sustainable and practical alternative to conventional fuel. This event will allow the fledgling UK biofuel industry to share ideas and examples of good practice, and determine the next steps in realising the benefits of bioethanol production and use to the environment and the local economy.” Councillor Alvin Horsfall, Somerset County Council Portfolio Holder for Economic Development, said: “Somerset County Council has been at the forefront of biofuel use in the UK and is committed to reducing its own carbon footprint. Climate change will be one of the most important challenges facing all of us in the coming years, and it is important that we explore new technologies like this, as well as adapting our working practices, to keep carbon emissions to a minimum.”
Over recent years the rising cost of motoring has led growing numbers of consumers to abandon petrol cars in favour of fuel-efficient diesel alternatives. However, analysis by EurotaxGlass’s has revealed that the typical three-year-old used diesel car* will need to be run for a further seven years before the financial benefits outweigh those of a comparable second-hand petrol model. EurotaxGlass’s, publisher of Glass’s Guide, found that the average three-year-old mid-sized family diesel car currently costs between £600 and £800 more than its petrol counterpart to buy, but the annual fuel bill is currently only £105 less. Only after seven years will the lower fuel bills compensate for the higher purchase price. Annual fuel costs for a typical three-year-old diesel car currently stand at £1,373 – up 25 per cent, or £273, over May 2007. For the equivalent petrol car, fuel bills are now £1,478, up 15 per cent, or £186, compared to May last year. “As well as the prospect of lower fuel bills, some consumers are attracted to used diesel models in the expectation that depreciation will be lower compared to an equivalent petrol car,” explains Adrian Rushmore, Managing Editor at EurotaxGlass’s. “However, if the average three-year-
old used car was retained for seven years in order to make the most of the lower fuel prices, the premium over a petrol model of the same age might, by then, only be around £100.”
“While there is nothing to suggest that prices of used diesels are falling faster as availability increases, clearly the broader financial argument for diesel ownership is becoming less persuasive.” The used car market has not yet had time to react to the dramatic year-on-year increases in fuel costs, suggests Rushmore. “Our view is that rising fuel costs will bring a further acceleration in the depreciation of fuel inefficient cars, although some highly aspirational sports models may not suffer to the same degree. “While there is nothing to suggest that prices of used diesels are falling faster as availability increases, clearly the broader financial argument for diesel ownership is becoming less persuasive. For diesel cars to remain in favour, they may need to rely more upon driving characteristics rather than any compelling financial considerations.”
Changes in annual fuel costs for three-year-old cars Fuel
Year/Reg MPG Pence per gallon Total costs
Diesel Petrol
2001 48.0 376 2001 39.0 372
£940 £1,145
Diesel Petrol
2002 48.5 408 2002 39.5 389
£1,009 £1,182
Diesel Petrol
2003 48.0 450 2003 40.0 440
£1,125 £1,320
Diesel Petrol
2004 48.0 440 2004 40.5 436
£1,100 £1,292
Diesel Petrol
2005 48.5 555 2005 41.0 505
£1,373 £1,478
16 days out
July ‘08 issue
BRUNEL’S SS GREAT BRITAIN CELEBRATES FABULOUS 18 MONTHS OF AWARD SUCCESS BRUNEL’S ss Great Britain is now on its second new trophy cabinet following a bumper 18 months of national and international awards!
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Highlights include winning ‘Large Visitor Attraction of the Year 2007’ in the Enjoy England Excellence Awards, and the highly prestigious Gulbenkian Prize for ‘UK Museum of the Year 2006’. Most recently Brunel’s ss Great Britain was announced winner of the Dibner Award for outstanding museum work at a ceremony in Washington DC organized by the US Society of the History of Technology (SHOT). Earlier in October Brunel’s ss Great Britain received the Crown Estate Conservation Award for architectural work on the dockyard and glass ‘sea’, announced at the ceremony for the RIBA Stirling Prize. The numerous awards are fuelling speculation amongst the ship’s supporters that – in the style of the Carlsberg adverts – Brunel’s ss Great Britain is ‘probably the best’ new museum attraction in the world! Awards recognize contribution to heritage, conservation, education, access and tourism, as well as architecture. The accolades are especially apt as the ss Great Britain has such an important place in history, and set records from the moment Isambard Kingdom Brunel started work. Launched in 1843 by Prince Albert, Queen Victoria’s consort and husband, she was the world’s first great luxury liner. She was the world’s biggest ship at 322 feet, and combined the cutting-edge technologies and materials of her time – steam power, the propeller, and iron. The ship’s luxurious and spacious interior impressed Queen Victoria, who commented in her journal: “All the decorations are very fine and everything made as comfortable as possible.” The ss Great Britain also counts author Anthony Trollope and the first ‘All England’ cricket to team to tour Australia amongst her passengers. In May, Brunel’s ss Great Britain, in Bristol, was named European Museum of the Year Award’s (EMYA) ‘Best Industrial Museum 2007’. As recipient of EMYA’s ‘The Micheletti Prize’, Brunel’s ss Great Britain was just one of three museums to receive awards. Other awards include Museum and Heritage Awards for Excellence 2006 for Restoration/ Conservation and Permanent Exhibition; South West Tourism Excellence Awards for Large Visitor Attraction of the Year 2006; Winner of the Civic Trust Award for Architecture 2006, with special commendation for its access systems; Winner of the ADAPT Trust Award for ‘Excellence in Access’ 2006; and winner
days out 17
July ‘08 issue in The AHI Interpret Britain and Ireland Awards. Brunel’s ss Great Britain was also Highly Commended by the British Guild of Travel Writers in the Best UK Tourism Project category. None of the success to date would have been possible without the commitment of consultants and contractors – who in their own right have also won awards for their architectural and construction work on Brunel’s ss Great Britain – as well as funders, visitors from across the UK and abroad, and the support of local people. Over the last 12 months Brunel’s ss Great Britain has welcomed 200,000 visitors, and in August celebrated its five millionth visitor. Brunel’s ss Great Britain was ‘re-launched’ in July 2005, following a massive National Lottery funded, £11.3 million investment, to conserve the historic ship, and bring her rich history to life – regarded by the Heritage Lottery Fund as a ‘seminal project’. One of the many highlights to a visit to Brunel’s ss Great Britain is the glass ‘sea’, which allows the ship to appear afloat, whilst acting as the roof of a giant dehumidification chamber. Visitors descend below the glass ‘sea’, before stepping back in time in the Dockyard Museum, and boarding the ship as Victorian passengers with a choice of audio tour companion guides. Admission allows for free return visits for one year. Director of the ss Great Britain Trust, Matthew Tanner MBE, commented: “The last 18 months have been phenomenally successful and an amazing experience for everyone associated with Brunel’s ss Great Britain. We have become the ‘must see’ museum attraction, and are drawing visitors into Bristol from across the UK and from abroad. “Trustees and staff alike are delighted and not begrudging the extra, and unplanned expenditure, of a second new trophy cabinet! I would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who has supported Brunel’s ss Great Britain.”
‘Year of the rat’ brings tales, trails, troops & treats A RAT-MAKING workshop on board ship is just one of the many treats in store at Brunel’s ss Great Britain in 2008 – the Chinese ‘Year of the Rat’. Brunel’s ss Great Britain plays host to craft workshops, storytelling, and re-enactors in character and costume, throughout the year Rats featured heavily in every-day life of the ship’s passengers and crew, with diary entries from even First Class passengers complaining about rats nibbling on toenails or running off with socks. And rats will provide a running theme in 2008 starring in vile and gruesome trails, the ‘Catheads! Rats’ Tales’ workshops, storytelling, and even sessions in Victorian etiquette. They are even proving top sellers in the shop at Brunel’s ss Great Britain. The ss Great Britain Trust’s Education Officer Helen Horler commented: “Children can act out their own tales of mischievous rats in steerage, the poorest but perhaps most unpredictable place on board. This is a great opportunity for families to work with an artist to make their own rat to take home, and is just one of the many activities at Brunel’s ss Great Britain.” Other highlights for the family include: Mr Brunel, actor Martin Williamson in character and costume, visiting his ship; Crimean troops and a Victorian surgeon; ‘Fashion victims’, the Halloween dressing activity with life-sized Victorian cut-outs; Santa, carols, mulled wine, and walnutgilding for Christmas. The daytime family activities are included in admission, which allows for unlimited FREE return visits for a year. The family ticket also includes three children, and
youngsters aged four and under are free. Fine-dining also features in the what’s on calendar with a sea shanty night (£49.50); midsummer’s eve celebration (£49.50); a harbour festival supper (£39.50); as well as Christmas lunches (£39.50 and £19.75 for children); Christmas parties (£49.50); and the ever-popular Victorian banquet (£89.50). Planning ahead, Brunel’s ss Great Britain will be holding a Burns Night banquet on January 24, 2009 (£80). Brunel’s ss Great Britain has won 14 national and international awards, including England’s ‘Large Visitor Attraction of the Year 2007’ and Europe’s ‘Best Industrial Museum 2007’. In 2006 Brunel’s ss Great Britain won the highly coveted Gulbenkian Prize for ‘museum of the year 2006’ (now sponsored by The Art Fund). In addition to the many events, the Baker Gallery, within the Dockyard Museum, hosts temporary art exhibitions and is currently showing ‘All at Sea!’ – a mix of art forms celebrating Victorian ships under sail and steam, and cutting-edge photography. Director of Commercial & Visitor Services at Brunel’s ss Great Britain, Deborah Germaine, commented: “Our what’s on calendar for 2008 is packed with fun activities, from rat-making workshops and storytelling, to sizzling science shows and fine dining events. “Visitors tell us how impressed they are with a visit to Brunel’s ss Great Britain, and these activities add another dimension to their experience on board.” Log on to www.ssgreatbritain.org for further information, timings and booking (from Easter); or call 0117 926 0680 to book events.
18 days out
July ‘08 issue
Hip Hip Hooray, it’s many happy returns for Explore-At-Bristol Time really does fly. Explore-AtBristol, the city’s special millennium baby, is 8 years old on Saturday 14 June and everyone is invited to come and join in the fun at its big birthday celebration. Birthday Festivities will be in full swing from 10am on Saturday 14 June and what’s more, every 8 year old visiting on that day will be allowed in entirely free of charge. And,
in a one-off competition to mark this auspicious day, the first person who can prove they were born on the day Explore opened, 14 June 2000, will win a year’s family membership, giving two adults and two children the chance to visit as often as they like until their, and Explore’s, next birthday. Donna Speed, Explore’s Commercial Director says, ‘This birthday
is really a double celebration for Explore, not only has it been open for 8 years and given nearly 4 million visitors a brilliant day out, but for the first time since 2000, the attraction is now entirely financially sustainable and we are looking forward to many more years of making science fascinating and fun for everyone. Many Happy returns Explore, it feels great to be 8!’
Explore is packed to the rafters with fun and exciting things to do from steeling your nerves for a penalty shoot out in LoveSport to taking a walk through a tornado, from building suspension bridges to discovering the latest developments in genomics. Whether it’s your eighth or eightieth year there’s some amazing science to discover and do in Explore.
Explore-At-Bristol Reaches Out reach projects help to break down the barriers that prevent many schools and community groups from visiting Explore. Our learning programme is second to none. It provides handson, minds-on science education in an informal setting and we are delighted to be able to offer it to a Its new Supplementary Schools much wider audience than we would Project, existing Bursary Scheme otherwise come into contact with. and Family Learning Project are enabling schools and community “This form of compligroups who would not normally access at-Bristol to take part in ex- mentary learning really citing and inspiring programmes helps to tackle the deep designed to actively encourage and rooted reasons for underdevelop science learning. The most recent visit by Bris- achievement in schools.” tol’s African Caribbean and Caribbean Heritage Raising Attainment She continues, ‘The projects offer (AC & CHAP) project in partnership both fully and part-funded visits with Erondu, was the culmination of to groups and the Bursary Scheme a five day project for thirty students. which has been running for 5 years Along with their parents, they spent a has allowed 15000 people visit enday in Explore, visiting the exhibits, tirely free of charge so far. Feedtaking part in a Fizz, Whizz, Bang back from all our community projscience workshop and evaluating all ects shows that participants leave the activities they had experienced inspired with a new, more positive attitude to science. It’s great to be in their week. Shirelle Gayle, Primary able to offer this kind of experience Schools Co-ordinator at AC & to people who would, under other CHAP, said: “The visit to Explore circumstances be unable to experiwas the perfect end to a brilliant week ence it.’ The Supplementary Schools which left parents and our students Project is supported by the Paul motivated, inspired and engaged in family learning. This form of com- Hamlyn Foundation, the Bursary plimentary learning really helps to Scheme in funded by Northgate and tackle the deep rooted reasons for the Family Learning Project is supported by the Big Lottery fund. underachievement in schools.” Explore-At-Bristol continually strives to make science accessible Find out more at: for all. Community Engagement Of- www.at-bristol.org.uk ficer, Jo Bryant explains, ‘Our out- or call 0845 345 1235
This spring ExploreAt-Bristol is working to strengthen its links with Bristol’s community organisations.
Top award for beach Weston-super-Mare’s beach has gained the prestigious Quality Coast Award, launched in April 2007, the Encams Quality Coast Award recognises different types of beaches throughout England that achieve the very highest standards To gain the award the resort had to meet a number of strict criteria, such as clean sands free of litter and dog fouling, have a sound management system and recognise the needs of a mix of specific user groups. The Quality Coast Award commends those beaches that can offer the best cleanliness, facilities and standards for the type of visitor their sandy stretch attracts. Once a beach has been
awarded a Quality Coast Award, trained surveyors continually monitor the area over the threeyear award period to ensure that a visit to the beach will be of the very highest quality. Weston’s beach is cleaned daily and monitored by the North Somerset Council Ranger Service. The Ranger Service also oversees the team of Welcomers, the First Aid Post and Lost Children’s Centre on the seafront. “This is a super result for Weston,” said Cllr Elfan Ap Rees, executive member responsible for tourism. “It not only recognises the wonderful beach we have here in the resort, but also the efforts our teams go to to ensure the seafront area is a clean and safe environment for the public to visit and enjoy.”
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July ‘08 issue
days out 21
Find Your Talent North Somerset has been chosen as one of 10 pilot areas in the country for a government initiative called ‘Find Your Talent’. The £25 million programme aims to give young people the chance to encounter a range of high-quality cultural experiences for five hours a week both in and outside school. The scheme will trial different ways of offering young people a range of cultural experiences both within schools and in professional art settings. Different approaches will be used, based on partnerships between schools, local authorities and arts organisations, so that creative practitioners will spend time in schools, as well as children getting the chance to gain experience outside the classroom. Find your Talent will include giving young people the chance to: perform on stage and attend top quality performances, exhibitions at museums and galleries, and heritage sites; get hands-on experience of the creative industries including film making, radio and TV; learn a musical instrument, and take part in a musical performance in front of an audience; produce creative writing and appreciate authors and how they work; learn about - and practise - new media and digital art; and develop art and craft skills. North Somerset was one of only 10 areas chosen from 141 applications and the council’s application was praised in a letter from Secretaries of State Andy Burnham and Ed Balls: “ We both agreed that your bid one was of those which stood out. We were impressed by not only the clear vision which underpinned your application but also the very real determination to put this into practice. What shone through was your commitment to making a real difference to the lives of young people in your area.” “Once more the quality of our staff in creating a strong bid has ensured success,” executive member for children and young people, Cllr Jeremy Blatchford. “Cultural experience is now placed at the very heart of the learning experience for our children. We expect to see great benefits to them not only academically but also getting even more from life’s rich tapestry. Some facets of this programme will build confidence and self assurance. It is a great credit to all that government has the confidence to again choose North Somerset to lead the nation in an innovative education programme.”
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22 ARTS
July ‘08 issue
Disabled artists exhibit at Grant Bradley Gallery ‘TransformARTive’ Art+Power, 21 June – 26 July THE Grant Bradley Gallery are preparing for an exhibition of 25 disabled and socially excluded artists. The gallery based in the old library building in Bedminster, Bristol will be holding the exhibition ‘TransformARTive’ in partnership with Art+Power, which will allow the artists to explore the transforming power of art through painting, poetry and performance. It promises to be an accessible and inclusive celebration of arts as a participatory experience. Albany Boulter, the galleries event manager says, “There will be a Image: ‘Lauren’ by Chris Rose preview on Friday 20th June 6-8pm and every one is welcome to come along and enjoy the show.” Special Events at Transfor12 July – 14 September mARTive include: Georgie Hopton, Esteban Igartua and Cornelia Parker show their The Arts Café work at Spike Island Artspace. Situated on the southern end of As part of ‘TransformARTive’ The Bristol’s historic docks, the former 1960s Brook Bond tea packing Grant Bradley Gallery will be profactory has become, over the last ten years, a leading venue for the ducing a special arts Menu. The arts production and display of contemporary visual arts. menu is a way for you to choose The recently established initiative, Spike Design, is an imporyour own interpretation of the art in tant new model for the support of early stage creative business, this gallery. and has brought a new and energetic community of designers to Art+Power have been exploring the work from the building. arts world over the last year and
‘Prophet’
Along side ‘Prophet’, the gallery will be showing ‘Part-ilha’. This research project takes independent art activity as its starting point, furthering the connections of those active in this area in Bristol and Portugal. part-ilha offers a view of a moment in this evolving culture. More information: www.spikeisland.org.uk
Image: ‘Flowers in a Bag’ by Georgie Hopton
Let an “Arts Waiter” know when you have made your selection. Then they will bring your chosen arts experience to your table. Performance Interventions A Performance intervention is a piece of theatre that just happens! You can just carry on with your business when you see it or feel free to stop and watch. These will be Tuesdays 11am - 4pm. Some of the interventions are static. They might be in the corner or in the centre of the gallery, while some of them move about and can be quite noisy. Actors at Art+Power have been exploring the world of art and how we feel when we visit arts venues. The interventions help people to look at exhibition spaces differently. The interventions look at the themes of being on the outside and not having the right language to be part of a world.
Performance Poetry Friday afternoons, 1-4pm, writers will be performing some of the work on display in the gallery. you can grab a coffee in the café and be thinking about how they can make entertained or explore some of the the arts more accessible. writing installations on display. You Go and have a look at the arts can also pick up a free copy of the menu and choose from their selec- writers latest anthology. tion of tasty art experiences. For example you could order some more information about a piece of art or Find out more at: www.grantbradleygallery.co.uk talk to an artist.
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