thornburyvoice www.thornburyvoice.co.uk
December, 2020 Issue 43
luke.hall.mp @parliament.uk
Here to help
FREE EVERY MONTH IN THORNBURY AND SURROUNDING VILLAGES
Lights brighten end of a dark year
Treasured Land Rover stolen
A THORNBURY family has been left devastated after thieves towed away the Land Rover they were converting for overland travel to Europe and Africa. PAGE 17
Murder charge Thornbury's Christmas lights are bringing some much-needed cheer as the High Street tries to recover from a year many would prefer to forget. Gearing up for Christmas: Page 3
Why are they doing this to us? POLICE are asking for help to trace whoever is behind a 15-year campaign to terrorise an elderly Thornbury couple. Officers say the couple, who have not been named but live on Primrose Drive, have had their house, car and garden repeatedly attacked and have been sent threatening letters, including one which issued the threat: "We have a big sharp knife
waiting for you when it goes dark." The couple say they have no idea who is targeting them, or why. Now police are calling on the public to help catch whoever is behind the attacks, by reporting anything they think might be suspicious. Turn to page 3
AN Alveston man has been charged with murdering another man in a Bristol street. PAGE 2
Homes approved
A DEVELOPMENT of 80 homes on farmland on the outskirts of Thornbury has been approved. PAGE 4
Group needs help A THEATRE group which performs to thousands of people in Thornbury each year needs help to survive. PAGE 5
Property experts working in the Thornbury property market since the early 1980’s, coping with fast markets, slow markets, boom or recession but always working our hardest to achieve the absolute best for our clients. Please contact
Penny Skinner or Rowena Moncrieffe for further details‌
14 The Plain, Thornbury, 01454 858007 www.bondsofthornbury.co.uk
thornburyvoice
2
thornburyvoice January deadline Our January edition deadline is December 14.
Thornbury Voice contacts Editorial
Advertising
Fiona Picton, Journalist Ken McCormick, Editor
Richard Drew, Publisher
contact@thornburyvoice.co.uk
01454 800 120 contact@thornburyvoice.co.uk
Your views Letters for publication can be sent to us via email: contact@thornburyvoice.co.uk We reserve the right to edit your letter. Follow us on Twitter @thornburyvoice
Find us on Facebook Thornbury Voice
Local information South Gloucestershire Council www.southglos.gov.uk 01454 868009 Safer Stronger team sscg@southglos.gov.uk 01454 868009 Anti social behaviour team asbreporting@southglos.gov.uk 01454 868582 Streetcare/litter/vandalism etc streetcare@southglos.gov.uk
Environment/trading standards 01454 868001 Police www.avonandsomersetpolice.uk general enquiries: 101 Fire www.avonfire.gov.uk General enquiries: 0117 926 2061 NHS Health Call 111 Well Aware health & social care information www.wellaware.org.uk Tel: (freephone) 0808 808 5252
PUBLISHER’S NOTE: Thornbury Voice is independent. We cannot take responsibility for content or accuracy of adverts, and it is advertisers’ responsibility to conform to all relevant legislation. We cannot vouch for any services offered. Opinions are not necessarily those of the editor. Thornbury Voice is distributed each month to local residents. If for some reason you do not get a copy, please get in touch or collect one from local pick-up points. Feedback is welcomed, call Richard On 01454 800 120 or contact@thornburyvoice.co.uk
Complaints Despite our best efforts, we sometimes get things wrong. We always try to resolve issues informally at first but we also have a formal complaints procedure. If you have a complaint about anything in the Thornbury Voice, contact the publisher using the details above. We aspire to follow the Code of Conduct of the NUJ (National Union of Journalists), which holds journalists to a high standard of behaviour. Further details of the complaints process can be found on the Voice website here, or can be obtained by contacting the Publisher.
December, 2020
n NEWS
Alveston man, 40, is charged with murder AN Alveston man has been charged with murdering another man in a Bristol street. Daniel Atkinson, aged 40, of Quarry Mead, is the fifth person to be charged with the murder of Andre Gayle (pictured), who died in hospital after being stabbed in Easton in the early hours of August 31. Atkinson was charged on October 22 and has been remanded in custody after appearing before Bristol Magistrates’ Court. Four other people – two men from Bristol, a London man and a teenager who cannot be identified for legal reasons – have already made initial appearances at court after being charged with the murder of Mr Gayle, 29, who died in hospital two days after suffering stab wounds during an incident near Easton Community Centre. Police believe he was involved in an earlier altercation in nearby St Marks Road and have called on anyone with information about the circumstances of his death to come forward. Detective Superintendent James Riccio, who leads the force's major crime investigation team, said: "Andre’s family have been devastated by his death at the age of just 29. Our specialist family liaison officer is keeping them updated on the progress of this investigation and we hope those with information will think of the torment they are going through and do the right thing." Anyone with information should call the major crime investigation team on 101, quoting crime reference number 5220 197 024.
20mph limit for rat runs PLANS to introduce a 20mph limit and speed humps on a Thornbury lane used as a commuter rat run are open to consultation. South Gloucestershire Council wants to introduce the limit on Crossways Lane and nearby Clay Lane, Hacket Hill, Hacket Lane and Whitewall Lane, between Morton Way and the A38. It also wants to build speed humps in Crossways Lane between the Morton Way and Clay Lane junctions. An alternative plan to shut Crossways Lane to vehicles was dropped as "it is not supported by councillors who represent the wider community," the council said. More details of the scheme can be found and responses made at the consultations section of South Gloucestershire Council's website. Anyone not online should call 01454 863503 for more information. The deadline for comments is December 14.
Angela’s Dog Walking Friendly Service at Great Prices dogwalkingthornbury.co.uk
A member of the
07975654574
angelasdogwalking@outlook.com Got News? Call Richard 0n 01454 800 120
Email: contact@thornburyvoice.co.uk
thornburyvoice
December, 2020
3
n NEWS
Lights and vouchers help High Street gear up for Christmas THORNBURY'S High Street and nearby roads are lit up for Christmas as traders look to bounce back from a year blighted by coronavirus. The Thornbury Christmas Lights Association has installed displays and a Christmas tree in the town centre as the festive season approaches. Spokesperson Emma Jane Higgins said: "Although we have been unable to put up our usual 100-plus displays we worked hard under the circumstances to bring some festive cheer to Thornbury – much need this year!" The association is collecting donations to keep the lights shining in the future, and had raised more than £600 of its £1,000 target as the Voice went to press. To donate, search for Thornbury Christmas Lights Association at JustGiving.com. Donations can also be made at collection boxes around the town or by dropping an envelope, clearly marked to TCLA, through the Thornbury Town Hall letterbox. Emma added: "We want to thank the
whole community for your support over this season, which has brought many new challenges and we wish you all a very Merry Christmas!” To help people support local shops at Christmas, Thornbury Chamber of Commerce has relaunched its Thornbury Vouchers scheme. Vouchers, in £10 denominations, can be bought locally and spent in any Chamber member business. Chamber secretary Zoe Gilbraith said: "This is an easy way to give a gift to someone, whilst supporting local businesses. We know people want to support our local businesses and we want to make it as easy as possible." Vouchers are valid for a year and can be bought from Thornbury Garden Shop or Horders, by calling Zoe on 07949 005 361 or emailing zoe.gilbraith@blueyonder.co.uk. Zoe said: "Our shops and hospitality hope to be able to reopen on December 2, but many are still working behind closed doors, offering take-away or click and collect, so even if we are still going to be restricted into
This year's Christmas tree on Thornbury High Street has been unveiled. December you are still able to buy goods and services locally."
15-year hate campaign against Thornbury couple From page 1 The threats and attacks on the couple's property include: *Glass bottles filled with paint thrown at their home *At least four threatening letters, some demanding money *The couple's car being scratched *A concrete slab being thrown through their conservatory window *Eggs being thrown at their house *Roofing nails scattered on their driveway *Laundry capsules thrown on their lawn, burning the grass *Wine bottles and beer cans thrown into their garden One of the victims said: "These incidents make us feel anxious and frustrated. It's very stressful and has affected our health. We have no peace of mind. "We think it's one person, but can't believe that someone would hold a grudge for so long. "I want to know why they're doing this to us. What have we
One of the threatening letters sent to the couple done? "The police are doing their very best for us. They’ve always been there for us and we're very happy with their support. "We're not going to let this person win." Avon and Somerset police say the attacks usually happen while the victims are out. CCTV cameras have been installed at their home and lighting on a public footpath behind the property has been
To advertise, contact Richard on 01454 800 120
improved to try and identify the perpetrator. Thornbury beat manager PC Natalie Jones said: "The couple have no idea who could be responsible and it can be many months – even years – between incidents. "We've had items examined by our forensics teams but we still haven't got that one piece of evidence to help us identify the person responsible. “We know the victims are
being specifically targeted, as the anonymous letters are personally addressed. We also know the incidents are linked, as the letters quite clearly make reference to the colour of paint the offender threatens to use next. “Being victim of one incident of criminal damage is bad enough for any elderly couple, but to be subjected to dozens of incidents, over more than a decade is, quite frankly, awful." PC Jones called on anyone who had seen any of the incidents or seen someone acting suspiciously in the area to come forward. “Any information, no matter how insignificant you think it might be, could help identify whoever is responsible for these shameful incidents," she said. Anyone with information should call the police on 101 and quote the crime reference number 5220 207 115. Information can also be given anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
Email: contact@thornburyvoice.co.uk
thornburyvoice
4
n NEWS
December, 2020
80 homes can be built at Crossways CAMPAIGNERS have lost their battle to save fields on the edge of Thornbury from development. Action group Thornbury Residents Against Poorly Planned Development says it is “bitterly disappointed” by the decision to approve outline plans for 80 new homes and offices on farmland at Crossways, off Morton Way. Bloor Homes told a South Gloucestershire Council planning committee that its development would be an “attractive, thriving and positive addition to Thornbury”, which would help to meet “the council’s and community’s employment and housing needs”. The council's strategic sites committee voted 5-4 to approve the plans, with members of the majority Conservative group outvoting opposition councillors. It is the third time the committee has met to consider the revised plans, submitted after a previous scheme for 100 homes was rejected. Members first voted to approve the plans in September, but the decision was declared invalid because technical glitches meant the public could not hear the debate online. They met again on October 1, but decided
they needed to visit the site before making a decision. Finally, on October 30, the plans were approved after councillor June Bamford (Con, Hanham) proposed accepting an officers’ recommendation, saying that "no new evidence has been put forward for me to warrant overturning the original decision". Members heard the land was not allocated for housing in any of the council’s planning policies, but had been a proposed development site in the region's rejected Joint Spatial Plan. The land is just over a mile from the town centre and between Thornbury Fields and Cleve Park, two large developments with planning permission. Bloor Homes South West senior planning manager Claire Hambleton said the development would "deliver significant benefits to Thornbury and the local area, including provision of employment land, a high-quality living and working environment, up to 80 dwellings, 35 per cent of which will be affordable housing, financial contributions towards local schools and community facilities, provision of new open space, allotments and a community orchard, new construction jobs as well as indirect economic
benefits and transport improvements”. But town councillor Clive Parkinson said it would be “highly damaging” for Thornbury, putting extra pressure on services and roads and destroying good agricultural land. Planning officer advice was that "overall and on balance" the scheme's economic benefits outweighed "all the harms that have been identified”. Liberal Democrat Thornbury ward councillor Maggie Tyrell said granting approval would send the message to developers that they could ignore the council’s planning policies and build anywhere. She told the committee: “There’s no specific justification for more housing to go in Thornbury when we’ve already got so much going to be built and in the process of being built, and there’s simply no evidence that employment land is currently needed." Afterwards Colin Gardner, of TRAPP’D, said: “We are bitterly disappointed by the decision, which was approved along party lines and which had no logical basis under current planning law." By Amanda Cameron, Local Democracy Reporting Service
LOOKING FOR LEGAL ADVICE?
� Solicitors Your LOCAL offer you friendly professional expert advice Divorce & Separation Family Law Employment Law Litigation & Dispute Resolution
FREE 30 MINUTE INITIAL MEETING CONTACT US TODAY
0333 320 8600 www.bevanevemy.co.uk standard rate call charges
Bevan & Evemy Solicitors is authorised and Regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority under ID Number 607770.
Got News? Call Richard 0n 01454 800 120
Email: contact@thornburyvoice.co.uk
thornburyvoice
December, 2020
5
n NEWS
Theatre group needs Thornbury's help A THEATRE group which has been entertaining Thornbury for five decades needs help to get through the pandemic. Thornbury Musical Theatre Group usually stages three shows each year in the town, including a pantomime, summer concert and main show in the autumn. But the coronavirus restrictions which have transformed life throughout society have left the group unable to put on shows and raise the income it needs to survive. Since the start of the pandemic, TMTG has had to call off this year's main production, Shrek The Musical, and has also had to abandon plans for a panto in 2021, while its regular performance venue, Armstrong Hall, has been closed for the foreseeable future. The group is reaching out to its supporters and audience members to help cover the costs
A scene from last year's Thornbury Musical Theatre Group production of Barnum
it has to pay even when not performing, such as scenery and costume storage, and insurance, by joining its Friends of TMTG scheme. Committee member Jenny Macey said: "Despite the lockdown measures and uncertainty in these
unprecedented times, Thornbury Musical Theatre Group have remained optimistic, with the hope of being able to put on another show next year. "While on lockdown the group has continued to keep active during our usual rehearsal evenings, through fun webcam
Wednesdays involving quizzes and bingo nights, and had great success in putting together a beautiful rendition of You Will Be Found from the musical Dear Evan Hansen. "Sadly, however, there is a significant cost to running a musical theatre group that cannot put on any shows." TMTG was founded in 1968 as the Thornbury Amateur Operatic Society and has around 100 members. The Friends of TMTG scheme enables people to donate money to the group, which has charitable status, in return for rewards from free programmes and interval refreshments to gifts and invitations to rehearsals or social events. The different levels of donations and rewards are detailed on the group's website at www.tmtg.org.uk/friends.
Equality Simplicity Peace Sustainability Stillness Truth Quakers is a faith group working for equality, peace and sustainability. Our silent meetings are an opportunity for reection, spiritual exploration and self discovery. Although Quaker roots are in Christianity, we have no creed and welcome everyone from all faiths and none.
Q Quakers believe there is good in everyone.
Q Quakers share common ideas, but recognise individual spiritual journeys.
Q Quakers try to put their faith into positive action.
During the pandemic we are meeting weekly on Zoom and, if the above resonates with you, please join us.
For further details contact Sheila Waters on 07738495776 or visit www.quaker.org.uk to ďŹ nd out more about Quaker faith and action.
To advertise, contact Richard on 01454 800 120
Email: contact@thornburyvoice.co.uk
thornburyvoice thornburyvoice
628
December, April, 2020 2017
n NEWS NEWS ■
Thornbury Food growingman on the menu Thornbury finedat for failing to open meeting self-isolate
LUKE HALL MP MP for Thornbury, Yate and the surrounding villages Write to Luke at: Luke Hall MP, 26 High Street, Chipping Sodbury, BS37 6AH e: luke.hall.mp@parliament.uk w: lukehall.org.uk Promoted by Luke Hall MP, House of Commons, SW1A 0AA.
Gotadvertise, News? Callcontact Richard 0n 01454 on 80001454 120 800 120 To Richard
ANYONE interested in producing their own vegetables, fruit and salad THORNBURY man has of the Grow Your Own Food Group in isAinvited to an open meeting been fined £1,000 after Thornbury. failing to self-isolate The group was set after up to share knowledge about food gardening and being notified by NHS Test open meetings, which resulted in new last year held two successful and Trace. members joining. The case was one With the start of the new growing season, the exercise is being of severalwith breaches of taking place in The Chantry, Castle Street, on repeated, the event COVID-19March regulations Thursday, 30, from 7.30pm-9pm. highlighted by Avon and Somerset police, who have set up a dedicated response team and say they have issued 44 fines in the space Warning: Sara Blackmore of a month, following more than 460 suspected breaches reported by the public. People can be told to self-isolate for 14 days for a number of reasons, including developing COVID-19 symptoms, receiving a positive test result or living with someone who has tested positive. Police did not identify the Thornbury man who was fined or give any further details of the case. Other incidents from the past month include a rave attended by up to 700 people in Yate on Halloween. A total of 12 people were arrested A CONCERTwith in Thornbury by and Cornucopia, a quartet of handed in connection the incident so far, two have been professional horn players, will £10,000 fines for organising the raise event.money for the town’s Armstrong Hall development project. Assistant Chief Constable Steve Cullen said: “It’s truly shameful Music by Mozartsome - andpeople his soncontinue - and Haydn will not feature the level of disregard to show, just in for the performance in the Cossham Hall, Chapel Street, on Friday, themselves or the law but for other members of society. March “What31. is horrifying about these cases was the attitude shown Theofficers 19th century piece of their the Forest towards who are justBird doing job. will also be played, with the evening with Gordon Carr’s Chinese “Several officersclosing responding to the rave were injuredSongs. by revellers Cornucopia join up lit with local fl ute player Nicki Woodward throwing missiles,will including aerosol cans. (Barnes), baritone Niall Hoskin andthey pianist Stevenand Hollas “These people know exactly what are doing it is for notthe only concert, for which cost £12, with concessions available. wrong but tickets dangerous on multiple levels.” Theythan are on sale in Thornbury Town have Hall, been High recorded Street, orby bythe More 33,000 reports of breaches phoning force since01454 March,412272. and over 400 fines issued.
Horns of plenty in fund raising concert by Cornucopia quartet
As the country prepares to leave the latest lockdown on December 2, case rates in the Thornbury area remained well below the national average of 251.5 per 100,000 people. In the week to November 17, Office for National Statistics figures showed a total of 26 new cases recorded in Thornbury, 11 in Alveston, Olveston & Oldbury, 29 in Almondsbury, Pilning & Severn Beach, and 21 in Charfield, Wickwar & Iron Acton. Figures for South Gloucestershire in the week to November 22 showed a total of 913 new cases, an above-average rate of 320.2 per 100,000. Since the start of the pandemic a total of 5,676 cases have been confirmed in South Gloucestershire, an overall rate of 1,990.9 per 100,000. Over the four weeks to November 6, eight South Gloucestershire residents died of COVID-19, following a six-week period with no deaths linked toWednesday the virus. 14th June 2017 Director of Public Health Sara Blackmore warned during Armstrong Hall, Thornbury November that the district's infection rate was at its highest since the start of the pandemic and said: “What we do now will determine Tickets available frominchloe-tony@hotmail.co.uk which alert level we are placed when nationwide restrictions are due to end on December 2. Fabulous cut price bargains from quality high street labels. “It is absolutely vital that everyone follows the guidance to keep items arefriends available purchase thethose night.most themselvesAll safe, their andfor families safe,on and Cash or card please. vulnerable to the worst effects of theonly illness safe."
Advertise your business in Thornbury Voice Contact 01454 800 120
Fashion Show
SD Fashion COVID-19 support: Page 12Show
Co Ltd.
Email: contact@thornburyvoice.co.uk contact@thornburyvoice.co.uk Email:
thornburyvoice
December, 2020
7
n NEWS
Schools find new ways to celebrate Christmas SCHOOLS are preparing to celebrate Christmas in new ways because of coronavirus restrictions. Traditional whole school nativity plays and pantomimes with an audience are out. Gone, too, are festive events such as Christmas fairs, where parents can mingle with children and staff over a glass of mulled wine and a mince pie. However, schools are adapting and coming up with innovative ways of bringing their communities together. At Christ the King Catholic Primary School in Easton Hill Road, the run up to Christmas begins every year with a feast day to celebrate the school’s namesake. Children make crowns, decorate the school and have a special meal. To mark the
period of Advent, the younger children have a nativity, there are class parties, and a Christmas jumper day. This year all these events will be held within year group 'bubbles', in place to avoid children mixing. Head teacher Mary Mainwaring said: “We are keeping to our normal rhythm and putting our children at the heart of everything that we do; we are still giving them the same experiences.” Parents cannot attend the events this year but photos of their children taking part in the festive activities are being shared via a newsletter at Christ the King. At Gillingstool Primary School, staff are filming performances to share on the
school website and Facebook page. Head teacher Caroline Carter said: “We are planning to celebrate Christmas with as much enthusiasm as usual. Christmas lunch and class parties will be happening within each bubble. Children will be making Christmas hats to wear and have already been busy designing their own Christmas cards.” Older pupils at the Castle School are helping the community, with sixth formers collecting food in partnership with Thornbury Foodbank, and swing band members filming a Christmas medley to be shown in local care homes. Pupils in all years are providing gifts for the school's Christmas Shoebox Appeal. The usual Christmas
accessories day and sixth form Christmas jumper day will still take place, as well as a ‘decorate your door’ competition for tutor groups, with prizes for the best entries. At Tockington Manor School and Nursery, an early Christmas present for the school has arrived – and this year it’s not a Christmas tree. A new contactless machine takes the temperature of anyone entering the school to see if it is above normal - one of the main symptoms of COVID-19. The donation from Dahua Technology UK & Ireland was arranged by a parent, who also installed it. Headmaster Stephen Symonds said: “It offers additional reassurance for all of us.”
Donation helps finish school's kitchen revamp A PROJECT by the Friends of Marlwood School to revamp food technology rooms has been completed with the arrival of three commercial fridges. The group acted after a parent commented that not much had changed in the food tech classrooms since they had been a pupil at the school themselves. All year groups use the facilities, which are vital for GCSE students. The friends raised just over half of the £2,018 cost for the fridges, with £1,000 awarded by Olveston Parish Council’s community grant scheme. Food technology teacher Louise Berrington said: “These are a super update for the room and give us a much safer way to store ingredients and prepared dishes. "The fridges are much more robust and appropriate for school use, so I imagine them lasting for many many years. They
Food tech teacher Louise Berrington with new fridges at Marlwood School demonstrate to the students some of the differences between a commercial and domestic kitchen, adding to their understanding about the food industry.” Regular fundraising events such as quizzes have not been possible during the pandemic, so FOMS has found inventive
alternatives. A 'virtual balloon race', run online using real weather data to chart the position of imaginary balloons, saw 365 supporters take part, raising £786 which will be spent on equipment for food tech lessons. With the usual Christmas fundraisers scrapped, the FOMS Amazon wish list, which enables supporters to buy equipment online, is even more important than ever – as are donations of equipment by local companies. Rolls-Royce has replaced the school's stock of safety glasses, after its previous pairs were given to community groups who needed them during the first lockdown earlier this year. Pupils were unable to do some parts of science, design, technology and arts courses when they returned in September, before the company donated 30 new pairs and another 22 were bought via the wish list.
Patchway - 01179062277 Gipsy Patch Lane - BS346QD
Yate - 01454315566
24/26 Station Road - BS374PW Work completed while you wait or pre-book and drop your vehicle off to us for a later collection
tyresdirectuk.com To advertise, contact Richard on 01454 800 120
Email: contact@thornburyvoice.co.uk
thornburyvoice
8
n NEWS
December, 2020
Empty plate protest at MP's office PROTESTERS left empty plates with messages for Thornbury's MP after he voted against an opposition bid to extend the free school meals programme. The plates, with messages including "shameful voting" and "how could you vote against feeding hungry children?" were left outside local government minister Luke Hall's Chipping Sodbury constituency office after he voted against an opposition motion to extend the scheme into the school holidays. The protest came before a U-turn from Prime Minister Boris Johnson, who announced that the Government would extend support for children from low-income families this winter following a high-profile campaign led by Manchester United and England footballer Marcus Rashford. But South Gloucestershire Council had already stepped in to pledge that it would use Emergency Assistance Grant funding to supply food parcels for the 4,212 children in the area eligible for free school meals, and cards with £20 pre-paid to buy food at supermarkets. The decision of Mr Hall and fellow Conservative South Gloucestershire MPs Jack
Protesters outside Luke Hall's constituency office. Picture: Sue Swanborough Lopresti and Chris Skidmore to oppose the motion was criticised by local politicians. Council Liberal Democrat group leader Claire Young said: “It seems amazing that, in 2020, in the middle of a global pandemic, in one of the richest countries in the world, saying that no child should go hungry simply because they are not in school, should be controversial." Mr Hall said: "I did not support the Free School Meals motion in Parliament, I instead
supported a different system of providing support to vulnerable children and families, which I believe is much more effective. "We are giving South Gloucestershire Council almost £570,000 in Government funding to provide additional support to vulnerable children and families in our community this winter. "This is a much more targeted measure than just Free School Meals alone and will directly support vulnerable children and families." The council said it the £569,161 it is receiving as part of the new Covid Winter Grant Scheme will provide support with paying for food and bills for vulnerable children and families until the end of next March. Cabinet member for children Sam Bromiley said: "We are pleased to welcome this funding from Government as it will help to make a difference to those in our communities who might be struggling to get by, giving them the vital support they need with food and bills and giving them more opportunity to enjoy the festive season without worries over making ends meet.”
Relieve pain & live an active life with MBST MBST is an award-winning German innovation. It uses MRI-based technology to stimulate internal tissue healing and provide relief for a range of injuries & conditions. At the CURA Clinical practice in Westbury-onTrym near Bristol, we’ve used MBST to treat over 250 patients. We’ve seen a 90% improvement in our patients’ levels of pain and joint mobility.
Our most commonly treated conditions are: Osteoarthritis
Cartilage damage
Back & disc problems
Ligament, tendon & muscle damage
Bone conditions & fractures
Sports injuries
“I’ve been hugely impressed by the significant improvement in symptoms by my patients I have referred to CURA Clinical. This is a group of patients who, up until now, have few other effective options. I recommend it highly.” Jonathan Webb MB ChB FRCS (Orth), Consultant Knee Surgeon
Hear what our patients say about MBST:
www.curaclinical.com
Speak to our Clinical Director, James Scrimshaw
0117 959 6531
Chiropractic | MBST Cell Regeneration Therapy | Laser Therapy
Got News? Call Richard 0n 01454 800 120
Email: contact@thornburyvoice.co.uk
thornburyvoice
December, 2020
9
n NEWS
Santa planning covid-safe visit to Thornbury FATHER Christmas is set to brighten up the streets in December – with support from his little helpers at Thornbury Round Table. The annual round of visits by Santa's sleigh to streets around the town is a highlight for families with young children and also helps local charities. This year, COVID-19 restrictions on social contact mean that Round Table volunteers have had to change how the visits work and have brought about a new motto – Space: Wave: Donate. Thornbury Round Table chairman Andy Hunter said: "We all know that 2020 has been a little different, so all the more reason for some festive cheer this year. "The big change this year is that we will not be able to knock on doors to collect and, unfortunately, Santa will be unable to come to children individually. He’ll be staying on the sleigh, so please keep little ones at a safe distance." However the elves will still be
Father Christmas with his Thornbury Round Table elves last year
collecting donations, all of which go to local good causes and charities: those recently helped include Thornbury Over 60s Tea Club, children's charity Jigsaw Thornbury and youth club operator Krunch South West. As well as giving using contactless payments at the garden gate, to aid social distancing, people can donate by text or by using a smartphone camera QR code to go to an
online donation page. Text donations can be made by texting the code TRTSANTA to one of a series of numbers: to 70201 to donate ÂŁ1, 70331 to donate ÂŁ3, 70970 to donate ÂŁ5 and 70191 to donate ÂŁ10. The first weekend of sleigh rounds will see Santa visit
the Siblands area on Friday, December 4, Alveston on December 5 and Oakleaze on December 6. The following weekend's rounds are Thornbury North on December 11, Thornbury East on December 12 and Streamleaze on December 13. On the final weekend before Christmas the sleigh will visit the Cheviot area on December 18, Park Road on December 19 and Thornbury Fields on December 20. The final day will also see Santa visit Oldbury-on-Severn, Olveston, Tockington and Tytherington. The sleigh will run from around 5pm on Friday nights and 4pm on Saturdays and Sundays, ending between 7pm and 7.30pm, and anyone who wants to find out how close it is getting can search for Thornbury Round Table on Facebook, where a live Santa Tracker will be running during the rounds.
Bus service changes BUS operator First has changed a number of its services to and from Thornbury. The company says it is extending a number of T1 evening services to Bristol city centre, rather than terminating at Harry Stoke. It is also reverting all T1b bookable services to service T1, as all journeys on the route are now bookable online at bookmybusride. com. A special school service, T1s, has been introduced to serve schools in Thornbury and Alveston. The T2 service has been reviewed, with several morning services now operating 20 minutes earlier to improve connections to SGS College in Filton.
To advertise, contact Richard on 01454 800 120
Happy Days Nurseries are recruiting in Bristol! Happy Days is an established provider of nursery childcare in the South West. Our mission is to provide high quality childcare, early year’s education and play experiences, which meet the individual needs of all children.
We are looking for qualified Childcare Practitioners for our Bristol Nurseries in Bradley Stoke, Thornbury, Cheswick Village (Stoke Gifford) and our new Lyde Green Nursery • Do you yearn for a new challenge for 2021? • Do you want a career not just a job – we’ll support your CPD you need to succeed • Discover the benefits of working within the early years sector • Are you a L2/L3 Childcare Practitioner looking for the next step in your career or looking to return to the early year’s sector? • Happy Days mentor and support their employees along the way • We can offer the choice of permanent or supply roles to suit your lifestyle
Apply before 31 January 2021 and you will be eligible to receive our ÂŁ300 welcome bonus* (*Terms & Conditions apply)
Interested in finding out more? Email your CV and your location preference to: hradmin@happydaysnurseries.com
“Happy Days, committed to safer recruitment� Email: contact@thornburyvoice.co.uk
thornburyvoice
10
n NEWS
December, 2020
Centre boss blasts kebab van 'aftermath' A KEBAB van in Thornbury has been allowed to keep trading, after a neighbouring business accused it of breaking coronavirus rules and turning a blind eye to criminal and antisocial behaviour. Thornbury Kebabs has been operating in Thornbury High Street for about a decade, and parks outside the entrance to the St Mary Centre. When owner and cook Murat Cetin applied to renew his licence, the owners of the centre – which has a kebab shop – objected. Mr Cetin applied for the same trading hours as before: from 6pm until midnight Sunday to Thursday, and until 2am on Friday and Saturday. Under the COVID-19 curfew for hospitality businesses before the latest lockdown, he could not trade after 10pm unless orders were received by phone or text. Alan Cole, who manages the St Mary Centre on behalf of the
Peer Group, told a licensing hearing in late October that Mr Cetin had been seen selling hot food and drinks beyond the curfew and his customers showed a “distinct lack of social distancing”. He said that while most were law-abiding citizens, some were drunk and caused a public nuisance. Mr Cole said there were frequent fights and assaults, broken windows, and that customers frequently urinated in shop doorways and left unwanted food on the pavement. He said while Mr Cetin picked up the discarded polystyrene containers, the council and the shopping centre were left to deal with the “aftermath”, which included litter, grease stains, urine, blood and “bodily fluids”. Mr Cole said Mr Cetin continued to serve customers after they had caused a problem, adding: "Sadly we have noted that Mr Cetin does not seem to
have any sense of empathy for the immediate environment and lacks civic responsibility as a business owner.” But Mr Cetin told the committee he had been closing at 10pm under the curfew and did encourage customers to socially distance. He said he was happy to work with Mr Cole to help address problems of anti-social behaviour and criminal damage. But, he said, he was not responsible for the behaviour of everyone on the street, especially drunken people who had left the nearby pubs and who were not necessarily his customers. "Some of the issues [are] nothing to do with my business,” Mr Cetin said. "This is my only job. I support my family and I have eight and 12-year-old kids." Police did not object to Mr Cetin’s application and neither did any other statutory consultees.
But the council’s licensing officers recommended councillors refuse it due to the alleged criminal and anti-social behaviour of his customers. However the licensing committee concluded there was no documented evidence linking that behaviour with Mr Cetin’s business and renewed his street trading licence. Members recommended Mr Cetin “actively engages with the management of the St Mary Centre to alleviate the issues regarding anti-social behaviour in the vicinity of the street trading site”. By Amanda Cameron, Local Democracy Reporting Service
STROUD AUCTION ROOMS Jewellery
Watches
Coins
Unit J, Bath Road Trading Estate, Stroud, GL5 3QF
To advertise, contact Richard on 01454 800 120
Email: contact@thornburyvoice.co.uk
thornburyvoice
December, 2020
11
n NEWS
School children roll back the decades GANGSTERS, hippies and evacuees could all be seen in the classrooms of a Thornbury primary school as pupils got into a project to learn about the past. The Decades Week project saw each class at Gillingstool Primary School given a different era to study, from the 1930s up to the 90s. Pupils wrote biographies of historical figures, researched events and found out fascinating facts, producing their own newspaper front pages about the decade they were studying. Class teacher Emma Stimpson said: “The pupils showed excellent recall of historical events. "They were really inspired by real-life heroes and wrote some fabulous articles.” A look at the creative highlights of each decade saw pupils listen to each era's popular music and study famous artists before producing their own spectacular art work.
Pupils and teachers got into the spirit of their decades The events in late October finished with pupils and teachers dressing up in the style of their decade, with 1930s gangsters, 40s evacuees, 60s hippies and pop stars from the 80s and 90s. In November Gillingstool, which shares a site with New
Landcare Tree Nursery Old Sodbury
Independent traditional nursery open to the public and serving the trade Over 1,000 potted trees in stock Specimen trees and shrubs for screening Shrubs, Herbaceous perennials and Wild flowers Fruit trees and soft fruit Quality plants for your projects
Landcare Nursery Chapel Lane, Old Sodbury, BS37 6SJ Tel 01454 310664
www.landcaretrees.co.uk
To advertise, contact Richard on 01454 800 120
Siblands School, again looked back when children gathered in their bubbles for a sociallydistanced outside Remembrance event, with the Exhortation read by a Year 6 pupil and the Last Post and Reveille played on the euphonium by Year 1 teacher
Finance options available! BUY NOW, PAY OVER 12, 24 OR 36 MONTHS .. contact us
Specialising in .... n Resin driveways n Stone paving n Resin bonded n Tarmac
Harvey Olver. Head teacher Caroline Carter said: "It was a beautiful and moving experience – one which the children will always remember, I’m sure."
Showhomes wanted 5 and 10-year guarantees No job too big or small
n Block paving n Landscaping n General building
Get in touch for free estimates and quotes ...
www.stonewaypaving.co.uk | 01179 595894 E: info@stonewaypaving.co.uk
Email: contact@thornburyvoice.co.uk
thornburyvoice
12
December, 2020
n NEWS
Cafe and shop approved for alpaca farm PLANS for a cafe, shop and craft workshop at an alpaca farm have been approved, after more than 80 people wrote letters of support. Part of a large hay barn at Wolfridge Alpaca Stud, on the outskirts of Alveston, will be converted as the owners look to diversify and attract visitors. South Gloucestershire Council's development management committee granted permission after hearing there had been 83 letters in support of the scheme and that pupils at nearby St Helen’s C of E Primary School would be invited to use the new facilities. But 29 people and the parish council objected to the plans, on grounds including an “unacceptable risk” to highway safety and the impact on neighbours. Alveston Parish Council clerk Graham Smith told the meeting members were concerned about classes of 30 pupils attempting to cross the A38, which has a 40mph limit by the farm in Forty Acre Lane, and that the site could be used by parents to park at drop-off and pick-up time. But highways officer Martin Crawford said no accidents had been recorded at the section of Gloucester Road by the site, which has pedestrian
The barn which will host the cafe and shop refuge crossing points and was considered safe. Applicant Craig Hyslop said the junction had a good line of sight and Forty Acre Lane was wide. He said only small groups could be accommodated at the workshops and that the farm, which has about 30 alpacas, would not be available for parents to park at. Mr Hyslop, whose grandfather first farmed the land in the 1940s, said: “We are trying to create a sustainable rural business in the community we are from, that will provide local people with jobs and bring money to the rural economy,” said
South Gloucestershire Council planning manager Marie Bath told the meeting on November 12 that “visitor experiences" would include leading alpacas on supervised short walks and crafting activities using alpaca wool. “There is a very small shop, which would sell the alpaca yarn and possibly a few items of clothing directly associated with the alpacas on the site," she added. “It is to be a very low-key business, and the hours of opening are very tightly limited." Councillors were told the cafe would accommodate a maximum of 34 people but would mainly be used for craft activities involving
groups of 10 to 12 people, in a field away from neighbours, and there would be a low overall visitor turnover of people, with restricted opening hours. Ms Bath said planning policies supported farm diversification and that the proposals were for an existing building in the greenbelt and open countryside. Thornbury ward Liberal Democrat councillor Shirley Holloway said: “This application is really very exciting. “As a past teacher, I can see the benefit for children in education. It is all very good and I am very happy about it.” Judy Adams (Con, Emersons Green) said: “This would certainly make a brilliant community asset to the area.” Brian Hopkinson (Con, Bradley Stoke Central) said he was “shocked” that neighbours who opposed the plans because the road was apparently too narrow appeared to have encroached onto the public highway by effectively extending their properties’ frontages with items such as rocks. Members agreed unanimously with officers’ recommendation to approve the barn’s change of use. By Adam Postans, Local Democracy Reporting Service
Volunteers step up to support others again VOLUNTEER groups formed during the first coronavirus lockdown are active in the Thornbury area providing help to those who need it second time around. Thornbury’s I Can Offer (Covid 19 Support) involves around 750 people, who help in the town and its surrounding villages with dog walking, collecting prescriptions, shopping, and making friendly phone calls to help residents feel less isolated. It intends to remain active during any future local lockdowns which may occur. Alveston Community Action Group has more than 80 volunteers, covering 48 streets. Each street has a coordinator. It aims to offer every household
someone they can call if they need any help. The most popular requests are the same as those handled by the Thornbury group, but there have also been some more unusual ones including lawn mowing, socially-distanced birthday celebrations and delivering cakes and roast dinners. In Alveston, a leaflet has been put through the door of every home with contact details for the street coordinator. Group organiser Carly Rudrum-Baker said: “It has been amazing to see everyone working together to make sure everyone in our community is safe and well. "I’m so proud of what we have achieved. Some of the most
Got News? Call Richard 0n 01454 800 120
vulnerable and isolated people in our community are receiving invaluable support which has quite literally transformed their lives.” South Gloucestershire Council has recognised the value of COVID-19 voluntary support groups, running a campaign called Hidden Heroes to highlight the individual contributions being made. Council deputy leader Ben Stokes said: “These individuals and community groups have made a life-changing difference to the welfare and well-being of so many people in South Gloucestershire.” “As a council, we have worked closely with these groups, directly as well as with partners
like Southern Brooks, and together, we have risen to this challenge. "As the situation evolves, we continue to learn, adapt and improving the way we work together to meet people’s needs, but we want to be clear that we simply would not have been able to do what we have done without those countless volunteers.” I Can Offer can be contacted by searching for I can offer (Covid19 Thornbury Support) on Facebook, emailing thornburyicanoffer@gmail.com or calling 07842 188 448. South Gloucestershire Council also has a list of groups available on its website, or by calling freephone 0800 953 7778.
Email: contact@thornburyvoice.co.uk
thornburyvoice
December, 2020
13
n THORNBURY CLINIC
Remember the positives and forget guilt this Christmas
Guy Oldring is the Clinical Lead and Owner of The Thornbury Clinic. Guy has been working in private practice for over 10 years, along with leading sports clubs such as Bristol Rugby and Manchester United Soccer Schools. CHRISTMAS is almost upon us and this year, more than most, it is going to be a time where we really try and do as much as we can to remember the positives of life. So I want to use this December column to try and re-enforce the Christmas message of having fun and spoiling yourself! Whilst this year is going to
be a little different, and we are not going to see the usual crazy Christmas parties or multiple dinners and visits to friends and family, there are still lots of things that we can do to try and bring Christmas cheer. It is important for us to really embrace the wonder that is Christmas and try to focus on the little things that are important. That being said, I do think that sometimes a little bit of indulgence can be good for the soul! Firstly, here are a few excellent phrases that I use that I would like to share with you: 1. It’s OK to have that extra mince pie - it's Christmas. 2. Rewarding myself by eating what I want over Christmas isn’t that bad! 3. Prosecco and mulled wine are not required with every meal, but it's OK to have a few drinks with family. 4 (my personal favourite). Sucking in your stomach is not the same as losing weight, but it’s an excellent
NEW!
You can now support our High Street shop and also shop online at
short term fix. Rather than go on about what not to do and how exercise is key (as we all know this), I just want to highlight the importance of mental health through this time of year. So here are a few pieces of Christmas advice I would like to share: 1. Try and catch up with family, even if it can only be over the internet. Studies have shown that spending time interacting with a caring family can significantly increase brain function. In a child’s brain it has even been shown that it increased the production of grey and white brain matter, which are the main components of their developing nervous system. Basically, it makes us smarter! 2. Laugh lots. Laughing with friends and family not only makes us feel good but has amazing health benefits. Laughing can help to reduce blood pressure, improve our immune system, help to produce dopamine (our happy
hormone) and even can reduce the risk of heart attacks. 3. Give your family bubble a hug. Did you know that hugs have been shown to be a significant stress reliever? They also aid the release of oxytocin, which can make us feel happy, reduce stress and even increase our immune system. Studies have shown that a 10-second hug can significantly change our mood for the entire day! However, the most important thing is to have a wonderful Christmas and enjoy it with no guilt. Yes, the jeans may be slightly more snug and we may have become festively plump. But remember, the gym will still be there in the new year, and we are always on hand to help you with your aches and pains, and give any advice you need to help you reach your goals in 2021. Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year from the Thornbury Clinic team!
4 Castle Street, Thornbury, Bristol BS35 1HB
Facilitating Recovery, Preventing Injury
www.thornburygardenshop.co.uk
Treatments we offer include: Sports injury treatment Injury assessment & treatment Sports massage • Relaxation massage Pregancy massage • Clinical Psychology
Tel: 01454 838 366
info@thethornburyclinic.co.uk www.thethornburyclinic.co.uk
To advertise, contact Richard on 01454 800 120
Email: contact@thornburyvoice.co.uk
14
n BOOK REVIEW
thornburyvoice
December, 2020
Theperfect Christmaspresent for theknow-it-all local in Bristol That You Shouldn’t Miss is written by local journalist Martin Booth, and the book is brought alive by the images of Bristol-based photographer Barbara Evripidou. It’s not a complicated book, with a page about each place and a picture on the facing page. If you are local, some of the places highlighted may not be a huge surprise; the cross-harbour ferry, Brunel’s Buttery, Bristol Central Library and the County Ground, to name a few. However, Booth digs down into the rich underbelly of the city and surrounding area to highlight some obscure gems. Who knew there was a pub with a picture of Nicolas Cage on its sign, or that there’s a wicker nose stuck on the side of a house in Redland? How about Vale Street in Totterdown, the steepest residential street in the UK? If you like your food and drink there’s plenty to discover, from gin distilleries in Redland, cider houses, chocolate shops and cafes secreted away on the River Avon to the fabulous Bristol Sweet Mart in Easton. Art and culture - even the circus - is well HMV’s Nipper a Bristolian canine WB Generic AW.qxp_Layout 1 21/09/2020 17:08 Page 7 IF, like me, you are a Bristolian, you might think you know almost everything there is to know about the place we call home. Been there, done it and got the ‘Gert Lush’ t-shirt. However, a new book is challenging people who are West Country know-it-alls. 111 places
represented, as well as historic sites and tales. Apparently Nipper, the dog on the HMV logo, was a Bristolian. For those of you who still feel you know the city better than the book, perhaps put it in the guest bedroom and buy the sister book for Bath, which should keep you equally busy. For the rest of us, the book offers a chance to rediscover a place we may not know as well as we thought. Perhaps the first visit (definitely by bus or taxi) should be to Cheers Drive in Speedwell. Voted for by local residents, it is, as the author says, “Bristol’s very own Boaty McBoatface”. 111 Places in Bristol That You Shouldn’t Miss: £12.99, published by Emons
f l e s r u o y t Trea willowbrookshopping.co.uk
BRADLEY STOKE SHOPPING
Got News? Call Richard 0n 01454 800 120
Email: contact@thornburyvoice.co.uk
thornburyvoice
December, 2020
15
n ADVERTISING FEATURE
Christmas Trees bring hope during lockdown
E
ARLY demand this year at Frenchay Christmas Tree Farm, brought about by the lockdown announcement on Hallowe’en, kept the Frenchay growers on their toes. With a fourday window to take reservations before the lockdown came into effect on November 5th, they were inundated with visitors keen to get their tree reserved in case the farm was forced to shut down. In the event, Frenchay Christmas Tree Farm was allowed to stay open, and began its first day of proper trading on November 21st. The owners are hoping that with all the open space available, visitors will be able to continue to pick their own tree from the field as usual. “Please try and avoid the busy weekends of November 28th/29th and December 5th/6th, and come on a weekday instead,” advises owner Simon Maughan, “but if you have no choice but to come on a weekend, then please no more than two people per household.” Trying to explain the early interest this year, Simon believes that it is not just a case of Christmas
getting earlier each year. “We really did wonder whether there would be any Christmas celebrations at all this year, but of course Christmas is a powerful symbol of hope and joy, and the Christmas tree is very much a part of that.” “Lockdown obviously played a huge part, but we were also getting a lot of interest before that. People are just really looking forward to the year’s end, a new beginning, a celebration of having survived a perilous and odd year, and perhaps a way of celebrating friends and relatives they may have lost, or nearly lost.” “Christmas this year is going to
be very important to us all,” says Simon, “and we want to make it fun for everyone, while keeping the farm as safe as possible.” The site is following Covid-safe regulations and Frenchay Christmas Tree Farm will be open from 9am to 5pm every day until Christmas Eve. Pick and cut your own tree will be running as usual. There will also be an option to to click and collect, to pick-up-and-go, or to have your tree delivered, which can be arranged through their website, via social media, or by phoning the number below. A seasonal twist on socialdistancing guidelines means that
For your tree this year - visit the only place in Bristol that grows its own
FRENCHAY CHRISTMAS TREE FARM
customers will be advised to stay at least one Christmas Tree apart from other people, and Christmasthemed face coverings will be warmly welcomed! St Peter’s Hospice are also organising a Christmas Tree Collection Service in January, or return your tree to the farm, where it will be chipped and recycled. Finally, to say a big thank you to all our NHS workers who continue to put their lives on the line to treat or support coronavirus patients, Frenchay Christmas Tree Farm are offering a £10 discount on any tree on production of a valid ID. To know that they are there is tremendously reassuring. Frenchay Christmas Tree Farm will be welcoming visitors from late November until Christmas Eve, 9am–5pm every day. “Choose and Cut” runs for as long as stocks last. Prices start from just £25. Stay warm, stay happy, stay well. Merry Christmas! www.frenchaychristmastreefarm. co.uk Instagram/Facebook: @ frenchaychristmastreefarm
GROW TOP-Q ERS OF UA FRESH LITY CUT TR LY EES
CHOO YOUR OSE & CUT WN TRE E
OLD GLOUCESTER ROAD, FRENCHAY, BS16 1QW TEL: 07717220086
WWW.FRENCHAYCHRISTMASTREEFARM.CO.UK
FREE TOY FOR THE KIDS
CHRISTMAS WREATHS AND TREE STANDS FOR SALE
OPEN EVERY DAY UNTIL CHRISTMAS EVE FROM 9AM TILL 5pm To advertise, contact Richard on 01454 800 120
Email: contact@thornburyvoice.co.uk
thornburyvoice
16
December, 2020
n MESSAGE FROM AVON & SOMERSET PCC
Let’s start the New Year with kindness and tolerance
I
’M sure many of us will be happy to see the end of 2020, which turned out to be an extraordinarily unusual year and a time that challenged us all. Our personal and professional lives changed beyond any of our expectations, and our communities and businesses have continued to adapt during the pandemic. It has also been a year where people across the country have lost loved ones as a result of this awful virus. My thoughts are with those families who will be having a very different Christmas and I wish them all the best for the New Year. This year has also been a time when we saw steps in the right direction for social change. In response to the horrific events in Minnesota that resulted in the death of George Floyd, we
witnessed powerful protests take place across the world and businesses realising the need to support and empower the BAME community. The global pandemic further highlighted the disparities and divides along racial and socio-economic lines and the disproportionate impact coronavirus has had on many communities. This year has served as a stark reminder that we still have so much to do, but such awareness puts us in a better position to start making these changes. On a positive note, during the global health emergency we have seen acts of kindness and wonderful stories of people and organisations coming together to support each other during these unprecedented times. The pandemic has proven the impor-
tance of working together and supporting each other. I’m sure there are still many challenges ahead, but I am reassured that we will face these together. It is undeniable that we will have a very different Christmas to the ones we usually have. However, there will still be officers, police staff, paramedics and other emergency colleagues who will be working during the festive period to keep us safe. Regardless of coronavirus, it is always an extremely busy time of year for those who work in our emergency services and I know they always go above and beyond to keep us safe. I want to say a massive thank you to those in the NHS, police and other emergency services, as well as those in voluntary and charity organisations, for their
With Police and Crime Commissioner Sue Mountstevens hard work to support local communities during the festive period and for their efforts in protecting local people throughout this challenging year. Let’s start the New Year with kindness and tolerance towards one another, and continue to bring our communities together in 2021.
Will Writing & Estate Planning A Will lets you protect your family’s inheritance and decide how your assets are shared out – if you don’t make a Will, the law says who gets what.
Please feel free to call us during office hours on: 0117 952 0698
or email
info@elm-online.co.uk www.elm-online.co.uk We have a Bristol-based team of trained Will writing consultants who provide a home visiting service and can take your instructions in the comfort of your own home.
Mirror Wills Single Or Couples FROM £99.00
Making Secure Plans for Uncertain Futures
Got News? Call Richard 0n 01454 800 120
Email: contact@thornburyvoice.co.uk
thornburyvoice
December, 2020
17
n NEWS
Family devastated after treasured Land Rover is towed away by thieves A FAMILY hopes witnesses can provide vital information to help track down their cherished Land Rover, which was stolen near their Thornbury home. Chris Whitbread and his family had been upgrading the vehicle over lockdown, with the hope of using it to travel overland as far as Africa in years to come. But the 2006 Land Rover Defender 110 was stolen from where it was parked, at the end of Parkland Way, near the Manor Walk junction, at 10.30pm on November 13. The vehicle, which is white, has the registration number HT56 FHK and a distinctive brown Howling Moon roof top tent and awning, was towed away by a dark 4x4. Chris and the police are asking anyone who saw anything suspicious that night, or has information about the Land Rover's current whereabouts, to get in touch. Chris said: "Since purchasing the Land Rover in 2017, our whole family has been involved in the planning, design and installation of the various upgrades we have carried out, including keeping us sane over lockdown by carrying out a major project to add a second battery and upgrade to the electrical system. "We have so far travelled around the UK and into France, where we have been learning the best way to adapt the Land Rover for longer distance travelling and sustaining our family on longer trips, with a view to
Chris Whitbread with wife Laura and daughter Briony during an earlier holiday with their Land Rover Defender, which was stolen travelling further afield across Europe and into Africa in the coming years. "Our Land Rover truly feels like a part of our family and its loss has been a devastating blow in what has already been a difficult year." CCTV footage from a nearby home, showing the Land Rover being entered and then towed away by the dark 4x4, has been examined by the police. Earlier this year insurer NFU Mutual
reported that thefts of Defenders, which ceased production in 2016, had risen by more than a third in the space of a year. They are often stolen for spare parts or to order for sale overseas. An Avon and Somerset police spokesperson said anyone with information who has not yet contacted the police should call 101 and quote the crime reference number 5220 259 382.
wh at ’s in yo u r at t ic .. ... o r g ar ag e? We buy: FOLLOW US: @COLLECTORCAVEUK
l Vintage Toys l Vinyl l Hifi & Gear l Music-related items l Any cool items or collections considered
- HIFI - TOYS - GA MING C - FILM MUSI
THE VINTAGE MARKET | 15 - 19 STOKES CROFT | BRISTOL | BS1 3PY
c o l l ec t o r c av el t d @g mail .c o m 0 7 8 17 4 5 0 0 0 5 o r 07976 827967
• Refurbishments • Kitchens • Bathrooms • Tiling • Interior & Exterior Decoration
J.A. Property Services E: japroperty01@gmail.com
T: 0117 431 5132
To advertise, contact Richard on 01454 800 120
M: 0797 390 5323
Email: contact@thornburyvoice.co.uk
thornburyvoice
18
December, 2020
n LOCAL MP
As a community, we should be immensely proud THIS past year has been a turbulent time for many of us, and I know there are many people in South Gloucestershire who have made tremendous sacrifices. From spring to winter, I know we all have been amazed and comforted by the perseverance and the acts of care shown by people across our society to those in need. As a community, we should be immensely proud. Local businesses, charities and volunteers have worked together to make sure our vital services continue to run and support the most vulnerable people across South Gloucestershire. Everybody has got involved in the collected effort. From children’s drawings of rainbows, and the way that people came out of their homes as a community to clap for our key workers each Thursday night, to the people who have been out delivering food to shielding people and
supporting those in the greatest need wherever possible. To everybody involved in South Gloucestershire’s remarkable response, I just want to say: thank you. For many of us, it may seem as though our lives have been on hold this past year. I want to assure Voice readers that in the background, vital work has been continuing to make the vital improvements that our community has asked for. We’re building the Yate Park and Ride, with the planning permission granted, the funding secured and the location on Badminton Road next to the council offices decided. We’re continuing to invest in our local schools and push for a new secondary school in Lyde Green, directly benefiting students in Lyde Green, Yate, Coalpit Heath, Frampton Cotterell and the surrounding areas.
Weddings | Funerals | Bouquets | or just because…
s
Beautiful flowers for any occasion… Our Shop is open Tuesday to Saturday ~ 9.00am to 5.00pm Taking walk in and phone orders Delivering to BS35 and surrounding areas ~ Tuesday to Saturday from 9.00am to 5.00pm Holding socially distanced meetings for weddings and memorials should you wish to discuss plans Please call for prices or pop into the Shop in The Arcade, Thornbury
t: 01454 416111 e: flowers@joliesfleurs.co.uk
Got News? Call Richard 0n 01454 800 120
We’ve ensured the roll-out of phase 3B of Openreach’s broadband, meaning that homes in Tockington, Petty France, Hill, Little Badminton, Falfield and Cromhall are ready to be connected in the coming weeks and months. We’ve backed local jobs and businesses, through the furlough scheme, Self-Employment Income Support and by administering business grants to closed businesses. The Chancellor vowed that the Government would do whatever it took to get through this crisis, and with recent reports of successes in vaccine trials, it is clear there is light at the end of the tunnel. We’ve continued to work towards getting health executives and council representatives to agree the price for the Thornbury Hospital site so we can get building as soon as possible. Across the country, work has
Luke Hall MP writes for Thornbury Voice
started on building the 40 new hospitals promised at last year’s General Election, and the refurbishment of our own local service will be invaluable to our community. We’ve secured more electric car charging points across South Gloucestershire, so that we can improve the air quality along our busy roads and do our bit to help the UK reach net zero carbon emissions by 2050. I have lived locally all my life, and I could not be more grateful to represent the most beautiful part of our country.
L & J Gulwell
Family Funeral Directors 1 Quaker Lane, Thornbury Bristol BS35 2AD Tel: 01454 418779 Fax: 01454 419764 Email: info@funerals.uk.net Web: www.funerals.uk.net
STYLE SHOES TOP QUALITY
FOR ALL YOUR FOOTWEAR SOLUTIONS
Stockists of Hotter Lunar Cipriata Roamers Childrens shoes Handbags & Accessories Shop address: 2 High Street, Thornbury Bristol BS35 2AQ /styleshoesltd
Opening Hours: Mon-Sat 09:00-17:30 Tel: 01454 549653 @styleshoes_thornbury
Email: contact@thornburyvoice.co.uk
thornburyvoice
December, 2020
19
n COMMUNITY NEWS
News from Thornbury Rotary Club DESPITE the Thornbury Rotary Club not being able to meet physically since March of this year, like many community organisations and charities, its work goes on. Members of the club get together through Zoom meetings to discuss projects and fundraising activities. Recently they have managed to raise money through their COVID-19 Appeal to support local charities and charitable voluntary organisations that continue to struggle through these difficult times. Organisations that have benefited include Kington & District Scrub Hub (a volunteer group making scrubs & masks), Krunch SW (a local charity supporting youngsters through activities and mentoring), Thornbury Radio (community radio station with consistently high-quality publicity for charities), Made a Mark Charity (to support children who have suffered the loss of a parent, carer or sibling), Thornbury Town Football Club (cost of providing equipment, footballs for young players) and PHASE (a charity that provides support and counselling for youngsters struggling with drugs,
Rotary president Barry Williams plus support for their families). Rotary has also handed over a grant from the appeal to the Over 60’s Tea Room in Thornbury, a very popular venue that urgently needed PPE. Mark Wilkinson, Thornbury Rotary’s Fundraising Chairman, expressed his delight that Rotary could help so many worthy causes through the appeal. There are still some funds left in the pot to award small grants
to one or two more organisations, who can find out how to apply through the website www. thornburyrotary.org. Also, anyone wishing to donate to the COVID-19 Appeal can access the Virgin Money Giving page through the same website. Due to COVID, the Swimarathon, which is run every year by Rotary at the Thornbury Leisure Centre, has had to be postponed from early
March to May or June 2021. The new dates will be announced shortly. Rotary wishes to thank all the sponsors, both corporate and individual, as well as all the teams, for their generous support of this fundraising event which has raised in excess of £400,000 over the years. The Tools For Self Reliance project continues to be very successful. Rotarian Robin ColeMorgan has been busy collecting unwanted tools from homes in the area. The UK-based charity renovates the tools and sends them to various Africa organisations and, ultimately, they are delivered to local communities for carpenters, gardeners, builders and blacksmiths. Anybody wishing to declutter and donate can call Robin on 01454 414281. On behalf of the club, Rotary President Barry Williams would like to wish everyone a very happy and safe Christmas, with the hope that a level of normality returns and family members are able to enjoy this festive time together. Adrian Dennis
Thornbury Community Choir FOR many years, Jenny Dennis and Claire Whalley have organised a Macmillan Coffee Morning to raise much needed funds for the charity which provides invaluable support for cancer patients and their families. As with many charities, streams of income have been severely affected in this bleak year which will put considerable strain on the support services for the future. The restrictions caused by the pandemic meant that it was impossible to organise the event in the usual way, but help was at hand! Jenny and Claire are both members of Thornbury Community Choir, which is one of four choirs, collectively known as the Loud Crowd, led by the inspirational Liz Martin. Since March, Liz has run Zoom sessions every week for each of her choirs, as well as providing great cheer and musical riches twice a day on the choir Facebook page. This has helped all
choir members to continue to sing and made the camaraderie of the choir even stronger, even though everyone misses the real thing and the wonderful events in the annual calendar. At one of the weekly sessions, it was suggested that the coffee morning was held on Zoom, so the team devised a way of making it work (above).
To advertise, contact Richard on 01454 800 120
Choir members set about making cakes and thinking up other ideas for the auction, which was led in great style by Adrian Dennis, gavel at the ready. The array of scrumptious cakes and desserts was mouth-wateringly delicious, and the auction was fast and furious. There were also handcrafted Christmas items -
beautiful cards, decorations and bunting and masks for Christmas wear (sign of the times) as well as plants, flowers, a promise for a summer hanging basket, mystery boxes, a beautiful watercolour painting and a silver pendant, made by one of the choir members. Added to this there was a raffle of generous prizes and a pile of jigsaws, which were sold at high speed – another sign of the times! In between, there were jokes, songs and poetry, plus two quizzes run by Liz. It all added up to a wonderful occasion, which raised over £1,500 for the Macmillan Cancer Support charity. This was due to some smart thinking by the organising team, Liz’s uplifting Zoom gatherings, the generosity of Thornbury Community Choir and friends who donated to such a deserving charity. Jackie Jackson
Email: contact@thornburyvoice.co.uk
thornburyvoice
20
December, 2020
n NEWS
Singers set for online carol concert A THORNBURY choir is performing in an online carol concert which can be accessed by anyone needing to get into the festive spirit.
The Thornbury Good Afternoon Choir is joining the other 10 Good Afternoon choirs from across the region for the concert, which will broadcast on
YouTube from 1pm on December 23. Founder Grenville Jones launched regular Wednesday midday online choir rehearsals
The Thornbury Good Afternoon Choir performing last year
TH
OR
NB
UR
Y
after lockdown, with help from fellow conductors Ben England and Matt Finch. Grenville said: "The online choir, from across England and with members from as far afield as Australia, America and Canada, will be joining in and there will be carols for everyone, with on-screen words, as well as a special performance by the talented Finch Family. "The good thing is, that because it is on YouTube, anyone can watch it over the Christmas period and have their own Christmas Carol Celebration in their own homes." Matt, who is also the musical director of the Bath Light Operatic Group, will perform together with his wife Bella and Children Jess and Oli. You can watch the online carol concert by visiting YouTube and searching for GoodAfternoonChoir. A new online rehearsal season will start in January: for more details visit www. goodafternoonchoir.org/online. html.
Help needed
open daily (apaRT FRoM XMaS day) WalK-in oRdeRS & deliVeRy Monday - SaTuRday 11:30aM - 2pM & 4:30pM - 9pM Sunday 4:30pM - 9pM GluTen FRee aVailaBle Sunday & Monday lunch: unTil 2pM & eVeninG: unTil 8pM MeRRy chRiSTMaS FRoM The TeaM ORDER ON-LINE TO PRE-ORDER & PREPAY FOR COLLECTION OR DELIVERY www.deepbluerestaurants.com SOCIAL DISTANCING MEASURES IN PLACE 26A High Street, Thornbury, BS35 2AH
Got News? Call Richard 0n 01454 800 120
DIGITAL friends are needed to help vulnerable people in the Thornbury area learn how to access the internet using a tablet computer. Volunteers are needed to work on a one-to-one basis, online and by phone, for up to three months to help people learn to access essential services and social activities. The roles are among the latest sought through Thornbury Volunteer Centre, which is also looking to help a town charity find a secretary to take minutes at their brief bimonthly meetings who can use a computer and email. Another local charity is looking for a volunteer to manage a project to build a log cabin to set up as a cafĂŠ and safe social space. With space and the money available, the charity needs someone with the time to make it happen to price and source equipment and fittings, mainly working online. For more information email mail@volunteer-thornbury. co.uk.
Email: contact@thornburyvoice.co.uk
December, 2020
thornburyvoice
21
n MOTORING
A guide to pre-owned cars with Richard Cooke
Second-hand Style This Christmas, give the gift of freedom
LET’S not mention 2020 and instead look forward to 2021: specifically, what that might mean for motoring. The Sunday Times reported recently that fewer youngsters are learning to drive (let alone buying cars) and that only in rural areas that are poorly served by public transport is car ownership growing. I wonder if this trend might stall or reverse, given current fears over using buses and trains. The Times article quotes designer and journalist Stephen Bayley, and I will too: “It ceased to be rational to own a car in the capital a generation ago…it was a glorious adventure but now it’s over." Back up there, Mr Bayley. I ran a car when I lived in central London and then Redland in Bristol, and it felt necessary, and certainly never like an ‘adventure’. The Elephant
& Castle roundabout was always more like a bar fight on wheels. For many, driving remains imperative. In the currently fragile jobs market, the ability to drive to work opens up your options. For the younger generation driving is now more, not less important: remember, it is their employment opportunities that have been hit hardest. So how best to aid under-25s with their motoring future, and by extension their employability? Get your teenager to take and pass the driving test for starters. The proper one, not the cop-out automatic gearbox version. This means adding a nervy 17 year old as a named driver to your insurance (or even worse, an overconfident one). Despite doubling or trebling the premium, this is your cheapest option.
The alternative is buying them a car, or at least advising them on what they should buy themselves. Big rite of passage stuff. Try and keep an open mind. The decision, unless you are very wealthy, is likely to be all about balancing a series of tricky compromises. I’m talking about cost, safety, cost, reliability, cost and a vanishingly small chance of anything approaching what kids probably no longer call ‘street cred’. Enter the Vauxhall Corsa. This is the perennial driving school car, so at least it’ll be familiar. Small hatchbacks are no longer the death traps they used to be, but I still wouldn’t want to roll one into a ditch. It’s a consideration. The Corsa is reliable, plentiful, cheap and under some bright lights, cheerful. I drove the 1.4 petrol with a throbbing 99hp. This felt like just enough performance, which, for a new driver, means plenty. My own date with the ditch was in a flighty Peugeot that weighed the same as a Corsa but eagerly pumped out 130hp. Too much power, a touch of ice and crunch. At the bottom end of the performance scale, you risk your precious child attempting an overtaking manoeuvre in something tragically underpowered. That’s almost as dangerous as having too much power. As I say, it’s all about balance. If I was in the market for a Corsa, I’d go for the 1.4, which from
2010 onwards benefited from a more efficient ‘VVT’ engine. There’s nothing really wrong with this car, other than heavy steering and wooden brakes (possibly just this example). You should consider it, along with the Fiesta and a slew of other ‘first’ cars. Take a look at the Fiat 500 (smaller, less reliable, infinitely more character), the Renault Clio (more engaging, French build quality) and so on. My pick, however, is the VW Polo. Yes, it is significantly more expensive than a Corsa, and the image has always been a bit Sloaney. But it is reliable and superbly well built. I also like how VW tune their engines for torque rather than power, which makes them learner-friendly. Missed a gear? Don’t worry, the Polo’s flexible little 85hp 1.4 will manage. In the meantime, if you can, hold off buying a used car until February. The government moratorium on repossessions ends on January 31, and the backlog coming onto the used market will reverse some of the current pandemic-induced rise in values. What to pay: Vauxhall Corsa 2010 – 2014; £3k for a 2010 model with 50k miles or VW Polo of the same year and mileage for £5k.
www.filton-central.co.uk To advertise, contact Richard on 01454 800 120
Email: contact@thornburyvoice.co.uk
thornburyvoice
22
n SPORT
December, 2020
New stand shows work goes on when matches are off THE second national lockdown saw all of Thornbury Town’s teams, both juniors and seniors, immediately cease playing and training, with considerable uncertainty as to when they will actually be able to get back into action. Thorns' first team management probably would have preferred the lockdown to have come a little earlier, as on November 3 the team slipped their first league defeat of the season. After making the short journey to face Stonehouse Town, the team struggled to get into the game in front of a crowd of almost 150, and lost 1-0. However earlier good results had seen Thorns rise to second place in the table, following a 4-1 win at Moreton Rangers, where Craig Lancastle and Pete Fowler both scored twice, and a 3-1 home win against Shortwood United, following goals from Marcus Wormwell, Elliott Gardner and Jacob Farthing.
The new 50-seater stand next to the existing one at the Mundy Fields They had also made progress in the Floodlit Cup, with a penalty shoot-out win over visitors Cirencester Town. The reserves have not played since the middle of October, so have not had the opportunity of extending their 100% record in Bristol & District League Division 1. Nonetheless they lie in 5th place in the league, with 5 wins from 5 games. They will be hoping to get back into action soon, as otherwise they will face a massive backlog of fixtures
come the end of the season. The A team had also continued their winning run prior to the lockdown and had risen to 4th place in the table following a 1-0 win at home to Oldland Abbotonians and a 3-0 away victory at AFC Grace. They also will be hoping to get a couple more games in before the end of the year, to try and avoid fixture chaos at the end of the season. Meanwhile the Under-18 side have continued the successful
streak, and following a 2-1 win away at Olveston United, they currently sit in third place in the Bristol U18 Combination. However, games since October 25 have been postponed, and the league has made the decision not to resume fixtures until January 10. At this stage it is not known when any organised football can return, although the Hellenic League are looking to get First team fixtures underway again on December 12. However much depends on Government and FA advice, and the club will keep supporters advised on its social media sites. Whilst there has been no action on the pitch, there has been off it, with the erection of a second 50-seater stand at the Mundy Fields and the relocation of the existing stand to the far side of the pitch. This is part of the club's aim to further improve facilities to enable them to obtain promotion if the opportunity arises. Malcolm Carr
e p a h s Help RE
U N T U F THE R REGIO U O F O We’re developing a Spatial Development Strategy to create a greener, more connected and inclusive place to live and work. Have your say to make sure new homes, employment spaces and transport are planned in the right places at www.westofengland-ca.gov.uk/future-of-the-region For a paper copy or information in an alternative format, contact 0117 428 6210 or planning@westofengland-ca.gov.uk.
Got News? Call Richard 0n 01454 800 120
Email: contact@thornburyvoice.co.uk
thornburyvoice
December, 2020
thornburyvoice
23
PLUMBING
GROUNDWORKS
Taps, Washers Toilets, Cisterns Leaks, Blockages Tanks, Overflows Lead Pipes, Stopcocks….etc… OAP DISCOUNTS and NO VAT
LOCAL SERVICES DO YOU WANT TO ADVERTISE YOUR BUSINESS?
email us at: contact@ thornburyvoice.co.uk
0117 OVEN CLEANING
AERIAL MAN
956 4475
TREE SERVICES D. ATTWELL LANDSCAPING & TREE SERVICES
www.theaerialman.co.uk
• Digital Aerials • Fully Guaranteed • Repairs • Satellites • Free Quotes • OAP Discount • Additional TV Points • Humax Recorders
All Garden Works Undertaken All Foliage Removed – Roots Destroyed Patios Laid – Slabbing – Decking Block Paving – Gravelling – Fencing Wood Chippings – Clearance – Garden Walls Drives & Patios Jetwashed & Resealed
• FULLY INSURED • LICENSED WASTE CARRIER
For a FREE quote call 07960 681 921
Affordable Prices - Reliable Service
01454 660046
CARPET CLEANING
d.attwellgardenservices@hotmail.co.uk
PAINTING & DECORATING
SJM DECORATING
Professional Decorating Local Qualified tradesmen Internal & External Decorating Fast, reliable & friendly service Fully insured
Free Quotations
Call Scott 07515 523 623 0117 3824411
www.sjmdecorating.freeindex.co.uk
ADVERTISE YOUR BUSINESS
ADVERTISE YOUR BUSINESS From as little as
£18.30 +VAT
Per month EMAIL
contact@ thornburyvoice.co.uk To advertise, contact Richard on 01454 800 120
RUBBISH CLEARANCE Garden, Clearance House, Garden, Office Clearance House,House, Garden, OfficeOffice Clearance
House, Garden, Office Clearance - all Plus all other Plus All Your Other Waste Removal Needs too! House, Garden, Office Clearance -- Plus other House, Garden, Office Clearance Plus all other Plus Your Other Waste Removal Needs too! Plus All All Your Other Waste Removal Needs too! On-average Average cheaper than a skip. On cheaper than aa skip. OnAverage cheaper than skip. removal On average cheaper waste removal On cheaper than aa skip wastewaste removal -Average On average cheaper than than skipa skip
07592 003 Tel: 07592 506 003003 Tel: 07592 506 Tel:Tel: 07592 506506 003 1/4 Load 1/4 £89 1/4 Load Load £89 £89 Half Half £139 Half Load Load Load £139£139 3/4 Load 3/4 £179 3/4 Load Load £179£179 Full Load Full £199 Full Load Load £199£199
www.junkmonsters.co.uk www.junkmonsters.co.uk
WIGS
Wigs Bristol
LOCATED IN DOWNEND
We have been supplying all types of wigs and hairpieces for fashion and medical purposes for 45 years. Wigs can be purchased off the peg or made to measure in hair or synthetic fibre. We stock many styles and makes.
Please book an appointment on:
0117 956 6556 www.wigsbristol.com
Email: contact@thornburyvoice.co.uk
ST. ALDAMS FARM NURSERY EST. 1973
BUY DIRECT FROM THE GROWER
THE BEST PLANTS AT THE BEST PRICES
Christmas at St Aldams
CHRISTMAS TREES • lighting • wreaths • POTS & NOVELTIES • SEASONAL VEG
NEW EXTENSIVE RANGE OF VEG ONIONS, POTATOES, CARROTS, PARSNIPS, CAULIFLOWERS, CABBAGE, LEEKS ETC
CHECK OUT OUR WEBSITE FOR EVENING OPENING HOURS WHY NOT COME AND SEE US AT ST ALDAMS? SOMETHING FOR ALL THE FAMILY
OPEN 7
DAYS
9AM-5 P
M
WESTERLEIGH ROAD, PUCKLECHURCH, BRISTOL BS16 9PY SEE OUR SITE FOR SPECIAL OFFERS staldamsnursery.co.uk