Thornbury Voice September 2021 by Thornbury Voice

thornburyvoice www.thornburyvoice.co.uk

September, 2021 Issue 52

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Rain can't stop us Sofiya takes to the stage A YOUNG dancer from Thornbury is preparing to take to the stage to perform in one of the world's best-loved ballets. PAGE 5

'Deception' claim over 336 homes plan

THE rain couldn't stop young people and families enjoying Krunch South West’s Festival Fun event in Thornbury. Full story: Page 3

High Street public meeting called A PUBLIC meeting for Thornbury residents has been called in response to the changes made to the town's High Street. South Gloucestershire Council's cabinet made a ban on through traffic using the street permanent earlier this year, in the face of strong opposition. The scheme, to increase space available to pedestrians by reducing the road to a single lane

and making it access-only, was first introduced during the coronavirus lockdown and has been the subject of petitions and consultations. Now a meeting has been called under the constitution of the town council so residents can air their views in a public debate. Turn to page 2

PLANS for 336 homes in Thornbury hang in the balance after a heated meeting where the developer was accused of “arm twisting” and “deception” by campaigners. PAGE 15

Results round-up

SCHOOLS in the Thornbury area have praised the achievements of pupils who achieved GCSE and A-level qualifications following covid disruption. PAGES 6 & 7

Clubs return

THORNBURY'S clubs and societies are returning to life as events resume following the end of lockdown. PAGE 20

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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

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September, 2021

n NEWS

High Street public meeting From page 1 The meeting is due to take place at the Severnside Suite at Thornbury Leisure Centre, from 7.30pm to 10pm on September 9. The town council has published an agenda on its website, which shows residents attending will be invited "to discuss the restrictions imposed on the High Street". It has been called after Clive Washbourne, who raised a petition of 2,000 names against the changes last year, gathered the signatures of ten residents to officially request it. Clive, who is an ex-traffic police officer, has also been challenging the legality of the orders used to bring in the changes. He said: "There are a Iot of people who feel that the closure decision has not been democratic. "The meeting is being called under the constitution of Thornbury Town Council. It wasn't difficult to find people to request it – people are angry about what South Gloucestershire has done." Clive says he has invited South Gloucestershire Council leader Toby Savage and Thornbury & Yate MP Luke Hall to attend the meeting. A spokesperson for Mr Savage said that he had an existing commitment on the evening of the meeting. However South Gloucestershire Council has unveiled a new series of "briefing sessions" on the changes, which will take place three days before the meeting. A council spokesperson said the sessions at the Turnberries Community Centre in Bath Road will take place on September 6, between 9.45am and 4.30pm, with each one lasting 15 minutes. The spokesperson said: "During the sessions, council officers will be on hand to explain the changes and answer any questions." Anyone who would like to attend one of the sessions will need to book in advance online at www.eventbrite.com/e/167591756455.

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September, 2021

n NEWS

Rain can't hold festival spirit down HEAVY rain may have put paid to plans for its annual skate contest but families still found plenty to enjoy at Krunch South West’s Festival Fun event. The youth work charity organised the event at The Pod, next to Thornbury Skate Park, on August 21. While the wet weather meant the skate park couldn't host the annual competition, dozens of children and parents still came along for a barbecue, art and craft workshops and music. Krunch administrator Liz Ball said: "Circus skills and graffiti art were a big hit with the young people, along with music provided by local DJs and festival face paint, hair and nail art. "Burgers and hot dogs were flying out of the kitchen as plenty of families came along for some entertainment on a rainy afternoon, and Krunch’s team of dedicated youth workers and volunteers were on hand to ensure everyone had a good

The circus skills workshop at Krunch South West's Festival Fun event time." Krunch South West is a branch of a national organisation which has been delivering youth work for more than 10 years and has been in Thornbury since 2013. Krunch has been providing activities all summer for young

people from the organisation's base at the skate park, supported by South Gloucestershire Council’s Holiday Activities and Food Programme. Sessions have included outdoor games and sports, art workshops, dance and vocals, bushcraft and a survival skills

team challenge, with plenty of healthy food options on offer. From September Krunch’s weekly youth clubs will resume at Turnberries Community Centre, for young people in school Year 6 and over. Providing services for all young people aged between nine and 25 years, Krunch SW also offers one-to-one mentoring, motivational support, life skills workshops; a personal development programme in catering, arts or sports, babysitting training; volunteering opportunities and dance, art and music workshops. It is led by project manager Penny Baker, who has more than 25 years of youth work experience, including youth clubs, informal education, mentoring and work with disaffected young people in prison. For more information visit www.krunch.org.uk online or email penny@krunch.org.uk.

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September, 2021

n NEWS A YOUNG dancer from Thornbury is preparing to take to the stage to perform in one of the world's best-loved ballets – after waiting more than a year. Sofiya Perrigo was selected to be part of the cast of English Youth Ballet’s Nutcracker in a virtual audition back in July last year. The performances had to be cancelled due to the pandemic but have now been rescheduled and the 65 young dancers will finally have the chance to perform alongside international professional dancers in three shows at the Wolverhampton Grand Theatre on September 3 and 4, having rehearsed for 60 hours over 10 days of weekend rehearsals. Sofiya, a 12-year-old Castle School pupil, is training at Bristol Russian Dance School and on Elmhurst Ballet School's extended young dancer programme. She will perform the roles of a teenage girl and a Spanish dancer in the ballet, with its famous Tchaikovsky music. Sofiya said: "I started ballet and tap when I was three years

Sofiya takes to the stage at last

Sofiya Perrigo, on the right, with her fellow Spanish dancers set to perform in English Youth Ballet’s Nutcracker "I love the exhilaration of performing on stage best but I also enjoy challenging myself to be better and stronger in every class I do." "I really look forward to

old and I preferred tap at first, because of the noise the shoes made. "I now just concentrate on ballet and I dance with Bristol Russian Ballet School.

each EYB rehearsal because I’m learning a lot about performing and I get to dance for quite a few hours, and I love dancing for as many hours as possible. I’ve also met some lovely new friends. I’m really excited to be dancing in a big theatre." EYB director Janet Lewis said: "The children are obviously so pleased to be back dancing again and taking part in a ballet that they love. "Since the past year of lockdowns with the many restrictions, they are displaying a sense of freedom that is boosting their self-confidence and wellbeing. "The cast are working hard not only on their ballet technique but on their performance quality that expresses the part they are dancing." For more details of the performance call the box office on 01902 429212 or visit www. grandtheatre.co.uk.

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n EDUCATION

September, 2021

A-level success for Castle Sixth Form STUDENTS at the Castle School Sixth Form have been congratulated on their A-level achievements after two years of disruption from the coronavirus pandemic. School leaders praised the students for "demonstrating resilience and flexibility" after home learning during three national lockdowns, coping with self-isolation and safety restrictions in school. This year 85.4% of students in the sixth form, which includes people who studied GCSEs at Castle and Marlwood schools, achieved A*-C grades, with more than 20% of candidates achieving grades equal to or better than three As. Among the highest achievers were Annabel McLaren, with 4 A* grades plus an A* for her extended project qualification, and is going to study law at Oxford University, and Dennis Kiselev, who achieved 4 A*s and has a place at Manchester University to study computer science. Three other students – Jemima Barnes, Rosie Culverhouse and Theo Jordan – will also be going to Oxford to study history, French and law respectively. Angus Chan and Sidra Muhammad won places to study medicine at Leicester and Birmingham Universities respectively, and

Taya Green will study veterinary science at Bristol University. George Bazzone, James Harrod, Josiah Hendy and Jemima Whiteway all achieved at least 3 A* grades. The school also has a strong vocational programme, with students moving on to train in nursing, midwifery, agriculture, and events management. Head of sixth form Sarah Ockenden said: "There is something very special about this cohort of students. Not only did they

adapt to the changing circumstances with determination and good will, demonstrating resilience and flexibility, but they showed so much care for each other. "It has been a genuine privilege to have worked with them, and I wish them all the very best for their futures." Following the cancellation of the usual exams, grades have been awarded through a process of teacher assessment, based on a range of evidence and marked against a national standard. Work was moderated by schools and academy trusts, and approved by exam boards. However nationally there have been concerns about A Level grades being higher than previously, with 44.8% of results at A* or A, compared to last year when 38.5% achieved top grades. However head teacher Joe Docherty said: "Don’t let anyone suggest that the lack of external exams meant that these students have had it easier – it’s quite the opposite. "These students did very well in their GCSEs at Castle or Marlwood, and since then they have had to adapt and develop a wider set of skills than any of their predecessors, so I think they are probably better prepared for higher-level study and training as a result."

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n NEWS

Schools show pride in pupils' GCSE results SCHOOLS in the Thornbury area have praised the achievements of pupils who achieved their GCSE qualifications following covid disruption. The Year 11 cohort of 245 candidates at the Castle School included three – Amy Lyons, Richard Usherwood and Eleanor Clark – who were all awarded the maximum grade 9, in 11 different subjects. Many others were awarded strings of high grades, including Zoe Bonnett, who obtained 10 grade 9s and Shona Pattullo with nine, while Lauren Morgans, Grace Faulkner, Madeleine Elliott, Faith Holley, Francesca Harrod, Bethany Hyndman and Poppy Jones all obtained at least 10 GCSEs at Grades 9 or 8. Head teacher Joe Docherty said: "I’m so proud of this year-group of students. In Luke Ball combined 'outstanding' results with March 2020, they were Year 10 students who a GB athletics call-up had just completed a successful week of work when they will be assessed. experience when we went into lockdown. "I’ve mentioned some students who "Since then, they have had nothing like achieved the highest grades but we recognise a normal pattern of GCSE study – times in the variety of talents and achievements from school, times at home doing online learning, all our students. and many occasions when individual or "These young people are much more than groups have had to isolate at home. They just exam results, and one of the hidden have faced the challenge of studying for WB garden ad.qxp_Layout 20:48 downsides Page 1 of covid is that we haven’t been qualifications, not knowing 1 for29/05/2021 sure how and

able to see them involved in the normal range of extra-curricular activities. "We were thrilled to hear that Luke Ball, who obtained an outstanding set of GCSE results, has also just been selected to represent Great Britain at high jump at Under 18. "I think the greatest progress of all has been made by students such as Poppy Balkwill and Cailey Rice, both of whom have obtained a great mix of GCSEs and vocational awards and have places at SGS college, and Isla Lanfear, who will be moving into our sixth form." At Marlwood School in Alveston, staff said there were "many notable performances", including from Gabriella Williams and Sam McClaren, who each achieved "a sweep of outstanding top grades", and from Laura Evans, Seb Sumner, Stanley Willmott and Freddie Peacock. The school said: "The results of all our pupils are a tribute to the very dedicated and committed staff who always go above and beyond, supportive parents and carers and most importantly a superb group of diligent and conscientious young people who have flourished in what has been an unprecedented time."

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September, 2021

n NEWS

Donation pays for vital science equipment for school PUPILS at Marlwood School will benefit from a new piece of essential equipment for their science studies thanks to Olveston Parish Council. The Friends of Marlwood School applied to the parish council through their grant scheme and were awarded £1,000 to pay for an autoclave. The machine is described as being a bit like a high-tech pressure cooker, and sterilises items used in science lessons. Marlwood head of science Andrew Stoddart said: “These things are ludicrously expensive, but it’s a vital piece of equipment – without it we wouldn’t be able to function and fulfill important parts of the science curriculum. "The old one it replaced had been here pretty much since the school was built back in the 70s." The Olveston Parish Council grant scheme enables people to apply to support a group or organisation that has a specific project, or an individual who

Left: Councillor Di Buckley, Mel Evans (Friends of Marlwood), lab technician Annabel Bishop, head of science Andrew Stoddart and assistant head teacher Anne Hanratty. Right: The autoclave can demonstrate that they bring a sense of enrichment to the parish. Marlwood School isn’t within the parish itself but many children living there attend the school. Councillor Di Buckley has responsibility for the organisation of the grant scheme. She said: “Olveston Parish Council are delighted to be able to support local organisations with our grant scheme, and

Friends of Marlwood School is a great example of where our support has been put to fantastic use." Up to £10,000 of grant funding is available annually which is divided in half and awarded in March and in September. The parish council has a grant committee which considers applications, and these are then approved by a full meeting of the parish council.

The next award round is due this month. Meanwhile, Marlwood School will have a new head teacher from September. Seema Purewal's most recent role has been as an assistant head at Waseley Hills High School, a secondary school in Rubery, Worcestershire. Del Planter is leaving the headship after three years to take over at a large secondary school in Bristol.

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September, 2021

28 thornburyvoice

thornburyvo 9 ■

n NEWS

Fo m op

Vigil at alpaca farm A SOUTH Gloucestershire farmer at the centre of a legal battle over the life of an alpaca has thanked supporters from around the world who have rallied to her cause. Helen Macdonald, who runs a farm at Wickwar, has been fighting for four years to prove that Geronimo does not have a deadly animal disease. Geronimo tested positive for bovine tuberculosis (bTB) after being imported from New Zealand in 2017. But Helen claims the result was a false positive, caused because he had had injections of Alpaca farmer Helen Macdonald with tuberculin – a protein Geronimo combination used in the diagnosis of tuberculosis – as part of a skin test in New Zealand. The impact of tuberculin on Alpacas has never been assessed and Helen has been calling for Geronimo to be kept alive so research can be carried out – a call which has been backed by a group of leading vets, including a former senior official at the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra). But Defra has refused to change its stance and, after an appeal hearing against a 'destruction warrant' was refused by a High Court judge in August, Defra was given until September 4 to put down the animal. Since the order was granted, supporters have camped out at her farm to protest the decision and a 'Save Geronimo' petition on the change.org website had almost 140,000 supporters as the Voice went to press. Helen said the support had turned into a "movement" - but said she had "heard nothing from Defra, nothing from the ministers, nothing from the chief veterinary officer," after calling on the Prime Minister and Environment Secretary to intervene in the case. A Defra spokesperson said: “We are sympathetic to Ms Macdonald’s situation – just as we are with everyone with animals affected by this terrible disease. While nobody wants to cull animals, we need to do everything we can to tackle this disease to stop it spreading and to protect the livelihoods of those affected.”

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MBST Bristol: A real game changer MBST: an award-winning innovation designed to manage long-term injury, osteoarthritis and elite sports injuries MBST is a therapeutic adaptation of MRI used to treat osteoarthritis and soft tissue damage. Unlike an MRI, MBST doesn’t create an image but it does use the same energy James Scrimshaw and Jonathan Webb (Consultant Knee to stimulate a Surgeon) at Cura’s MBST Clinic in Westbury-on-Trym significant repair response in damaged tissue and joints. Here at Cura’s Westbury-on-Trym Clinic here in Bristol, over 90% of the patients we’ve treated have improved levels of pain, joint mobility and stability. Our patients range in age from 21 (generally with trauma or sports injuries) to those in their 80s. Many patients have osteoarthritic change in necks, backs, hips, knee or ankle joints. Most often, these patients are not yet ready for surgery but are suffering with mild to moderate stage of joint damage and some considerable pain. For this group, the results from MBST treatment really are extremely impressive.

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September, 2021

n NEWS

Patients sent home early

Metro Mayor drops in METRO Mayor Dan Norris dropped in to a Thornbury shop and cafe to find out how businesses have been helping families and children during the summer holidays. Mr Norris met Tabi and Garry Marsh, owners of Papilio in the High Street, and took part in an animal-themed activity day where children were making lion, monkey and owl masks, creating fish from paper plates and taking part in sporty activities in the gardens. He said: "I know our High Streets have had a really tough time. "But high streets really matter. Vibrant towns need vibrant high streets and it’s that mix of local independent and quirky businesses that have a real sense of place that make communities special. What Papilio is doing is fantastic, and it was a real pleasure to drop in to meet Tabi and Gary."

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HIP and knee surgery patients are being sent home from Southmead Hospital early in a drive to get through a backlog of elective operations from the coronavirus pandemic. Patients who have had a hip or knee replacement and are deemed suitable for ‘hospital at home’ support are being discharged after two days, rather than the usual five. South Gloucestershire councillors expressed concern about patients getting three fewer days of hospital care after their ops - but a hospital chief assured them the initiative was safe at a public meeting. The council’s health scrutiny committee, meeting in late July, heard that by the end of April, 6,425 patients had been waiting for elective surgery for more than a year, and 41 had been waiting for more than two years across Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire. The delays were because NHS hospitals did not have the staff or facilities to carry out all booked procedures as well as providing treatment for coronavirus patients. The region was chosen to participate in a government ‘accelerator’ pilot to speed up the delivery of elective operations. But Evelyn Barker, deputy chief executive at North Bristol NHS Trust, which runs Southmead Hospital, insisted the orthopaedic supported discharge scheme was well managed. She said: "People aren’t just pushed out the door home without any support." Ms Barker said hip and knee replacement patients are assessed for their suitability for early discharge, some are transferred to step-down beds in the community instead of being sent home, and those who are sent home are managed by a dedicated ‘hospital at home’ team of doctors, nurses and physiotherapists. By Amanda Cameron, Local Democracy Reporting Service

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unBEElie

We have already received over five hundred entries to the South Gloucestershire Bee Trail Challenge to support local high streets. All entries have a chance to win £150 of vouchers to spend at participating traders. Here is the story so far… HANHAM

STAPLE HILL

Nicola Bartlett, owner of participating trader Eclectic Gifts in Hanham www.southglos.gov.uk/ hanhamtrail

Emma-Jayne Barr, Week 2 winner, from Kingswood, with Ivy Bee in Staple Hill www.southglos.gov.uk/ stapletrail YATE

DOWNEND

Toby Savage, leader of South Gloucestershire Council, with Astronobee in Downend www.southglos.gov.uk/ downendtrail

FILTON

Andrew Turner, Week 1 winner, from Pucklechurch with Flora in Yate Station Road www.southglos.gov.uk/ yatetrail

For more information and to take part see  southglos.gov.uk/shopsouthglos # SGBeeTrail

Artist Sara Budd with Pollinator who can be found on Filton High Street www.southglos.gov.uk/ filtontrail

The South Gloucestershire Bee Trail is part-funded by European Regional Development Fund.

ievable

Summer on your high street CHIPPING SODBURY

KINGSWOOD

Jane Wicks outside Bristol Natural Treats in Chipping Sodbury, one of the participating traders www.southglos.gov.uk/ chippingtrail

THORNBURY

How you can still win £150 The Bee Trail Challenge runs until 18 September. You can enter the Challenge in two steps:

Lilian Matua, Week 1 winner, with Carly Morrish of participating trader Fabrics Plus in Downend www.southglos.gov.uk/ kingswoodtrail Louise Granger, Week 1 winner from Chipping Sodbury (pictured are Jack and Ava) with ThornBee in Thornbury High Street www.southglos.gov.uk/ thornburytrail

STEP ❶ Visit a high street featured on these pages and take a selfie at both bees. You can enter to win on all eight of our selected high streets. STEP ❷ Upload your two selfies to the Bee Trail Challenge website immediately by using the QR code on the bee information panel or when you get home by using the website addresses under the photos. To discover our map of the bee locations, information about the artists, and terms and conditions, visit  southglos.gov.uk/shopsouthglos And remember to enjoy the hive of activity and take time to rediscover your high street. If you are a winner, we will let you know within 10 days of entering.

n COMMUNITY NEWS

thornburyvoice

September, 2021

Royal British Legion: Poppy Appeal THE annual RBL Poppy Appeal is a very special time and Thornbury is very lucky to have a team of dedicated volunteer collectors. Edna, at age 97 years, is Thornbury’s oldest poppy collector and has been involved for over 30 years. When asked why she first joined the Royal British Legion, Edna said: “It is because of a very, very deep remembrance of my dad Cyril, my husband Bert, and the War.” Edna’s father was in the Royal Navy in World War II and served

at Dunkirk, helping to evacuate the Allied soldiers off the beach. He also served on the Atlantic convoys and was sadly killed in the last few weeks of the war when his ship, HMS Ebor Wyke, was torpedoed and sunk by a German U-boat. Edna’s husband, Bert, a regular soldier during WW2, was wounded at Ranville, France in 1944. Bert had a distinguished Army career in the Royal Artillery and was also, like Edna’s father, at Dunkirk, where he made his own way along the coast having

been given shelter by a French family. He later transferred to the Parachute Regiment and was honoured by the French Government for his participation in the liberation of Ranville, Normandy on D-Day. After her marriage to Bert in 1946, Edna settled locally and joined the Staple Hill Branch of the RBL, along with other members of her family. Following another move, Edna and Bert became members of the Thornbury Branch and gave a few hours of their time every

November to help with the Poppy Appeal. Over 30 years later Edna, still collects for the appeal and her help and support is very much valued by all the Thornbury RBL’s members. If you could spare a couple of hours in November to help with the Poppy Appeal, please phone or text 07702 591324. Your help will be greatly appreciated. Remember, you don’t have to be a veteran to support one. John Black

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SOUTH Gloucestershire council is inviting people to have their say on plans to introduce a 30mph speed limit is being proposed for the whole length of Morton Way. The council also wants to extend the existing 20mph speed limit in Badger Road, Fox Close and Otter Way to cover new roads built since a 20mph order was introduced. The council also wants to introduce a series of 'speed tables' or road humps in Morton Way, Chiltern Park, Cheviot Drive, Hacket Lane and Crossways Road, to slow drivers down. A consultation on the plans is open until September 11. 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.

Help needed THORNBURY Volunteer Centre is looking for people who are free to help out at the Bristol Memory Walk on September 4. Anyone who wants to get involved should call the centre on 01454 413392 or email mail@ volunteer-thornbury.co.uk. The centre at Thornbury Town Hall will reopen to the public on September 6, from 10.30am-noon, Monday to Friday.

Email: contact@thornburyvoice.co.uk

September, 2021

thornburyvoice

n NEWS PLANS for 336 homes in Thornbury hang in the balance after a heated meeting where the developer was accused of “arm twisting” and “deception” by campaigners. Residents and councillors said Miller Homes had tried to evade planning constraints with its detailed design proposals for housing at the planned new Cleve Park neighbourhood, off Morton Way. Members of the South Gloucestershire Council strategic sites delivery committee said they shared residents’ concerns about the heights of some of the homes when they met on August 19. They agreed to visit the 22-hectare (54 acre) site to see for themselves the impact of the new housing before making a decision. The meeting was told some of the homes are up to 0.5m (about 18in) taller than permitted by the original outline planning consent and a condition set by a planning inspector, heard. Residents and ward councillors also raised a number of other objections, including concerns about the narrowing of a wildlife corridor. But planning officers, who recommended the design plans for approval, said they thought the “slight deviations” from the original plans were justified and “acceptable”. They said the plans were the result of “extensive negotiations” with the developer, who submitted eight revisions, as well as a last-minute change to reduce the height of one house. A Miller Homes representative told the meeting: “Following successive engineering reviews, any deviation has been minimised

Developer accused of 'deception' in homes plan

A developer's image of what the new houses will look like and it should be noted these rare instances are due to existing topography, the drainage and the incorporation of good design principles. “The planners accept that the proposals are consistent overall with the earlier parameters.” But Colin Gardner from campaign group Thornbury Residents Against Poorly Planned Development accused the developer of “deception” and “arm-twisting” to convince officers that the designs accorded with the set height limits. Thornbury councillor Maggie Tyrrell said she found the developer’s reluctance to comply with planning requirements “rather disturbing”, adding: “It’s been bit-by-bit rather than the applicant accepting right from the beginning what the restraints and constraints were." Miller Homes bought the land

early last year from Landform and Welbeck Strategic Land, who had won planning permission from an inspector at appeal in 2018. The council challenged the inspector’s decision, but it was upheld by a High Court judge in 2019. The planning inspector imposed a condition requiring buildings to meet the height limits of a maximum of 12m (39ft). Miller Homes' designs included a number of height “deviations”, according to an officer’s report, which added that the council’s planning team thought the impact would be insignificant and “offset by design quality benefits”. But Mr Gardner said the designs included no “definite” roof ridge heights and said a chartered building surveyor had calculated that up to half

the homes sampled exceeded the height limits by up to 1.8m (almost 6ft). He said: “The council has simply failed to do its due diligence on this point. Residents will be watching this and wondering on what authority a case officer can overrule a condition set by an inspector.” Cllr Tyrrell said the site was "very prominent in the landscape", adding: "To suggest that the odd building here and there going above the parameter height is insignificant seems to be completely false. “A height is a height. It affects the view. It affects the character. It affects the whole outlook from the ridge and across Thornbury, which is acknowledged to be a very special view." She said there were "reasonable grounds" to turn down the application but the committee voted to delay a decision so they could visit the site first, after a planned site visit had been “called off” two weeks earlier. The council received 133 letters of objection from local residents about the design proposals. Thornbury Town Council also opposed the plans. Detailed design plans for the rest of the new neighbourhood, which will also include a 70unit elderly care facility and community/office buildings, have not yet been submitted. By Amanda Cameron, Local Democracy Reporting Service

www.filton-central.co.uk To advertise, contact Richard on 01454 800 120

Email: contact@thornburyvoice.co.uk

thornburyvoice

September, 2021

n LOCAL MP

Helping to give every child the best start in life EVERY child in South Gloucestershire deserves the best possible start in life, so investing in special educational needs and disabilities educational provision in South Gloucestershire must be an absolute priority. As part of our positive plan for schools, I have been working with the council to deliver the new 112-place Two Bridges Academy, which will educate and support children with severe learning difficulties and autistic spectrum disorders. Being built at the current Marlwood site, the brand new educational facility will provide tailored support and specialist equipment to local children ages 2-19 years old. It will be an “all-through” school, which will mean it will provide places from nursery to sixth form, and it will have

approximately 90 specialist staff. The new school is currently planned to open in September 2023. Plans for the new school include a hydrotherapy pool, specialist disability sports equipment for rebound therapy, changing facilities specially designed for young people with additional needs, soft play space for supporting sensory diet needs, outdoor wheelchair accessible play equipment and purpose-built lifeskills facilities. Some of the school’s specialist facilities will also be made available for our local community to use and hire outside of school hours. The Two Bridges Academy will be funded and delivered by the Department for Education, following our successful bid, as part of the Free Schools Programme. Enable Trust, a local specialist

education academy trust which runs New Siblands in Thornbury and Culverhill in Yate, will open and run the school. The new facility in our area is just part of the Government’s wider plans to improve SEND provision across the whole country. High needs funding was increased by £780 million in 2020-21, to ensure every pupil can access the education that is right for them, and a major crossgovernmental review of SEND provision has also been launched. Since 2012, 43 new special free schools have already opened, with a further 48 approved to open in the future. Improving special educational needs provision is just one key part of our positive plan for schools and family life. More widely, plans are in place to redevelop the existing Castle and Marlwood Schools, to

Luke Hall MP writes for Thornbury Voice

construct two new primary schools in Yate, building a new secondary school at Lyde Green offering 900 places to local children and delivering the £78 million of repairs and upgrades for South Gloucestershire schools, including rural schools like Rangeworthy Primary, Iron Acton Primary and Old Sodbury Primary. Delivering this new special educational needs and disabilities school is a key part of our positive plan for South Gloucestershire. I am exceptionally grateful to everyone who has supported this vital project, and as ever, if you have any views about this new school, please do get in touch at luke.hall.mp@parliament.uk.

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Email: contact@thornburyvoice.co.uk

September, 2021

thornburyvoice

n MESSAGE FROM AVON & SOMERSET PCC

Speeding: a choice that puts others’ lives at risk

ELLO to September – and good luck to all of those who are starting or returning to school, college and university. Personally, I still cannot believe that we are almost three quarters of the way through 2021! My team and I continue to gather momentum and I feel well and truly embedded within the role. As I discussed in my last column, the police and crime survey, which closes on September 20, continues to be a focus and I am still calling on local people and communities to tell me what policing issues matter most to them by completing it. The feedback from the survey will help shape my Police and Crime Plan, a legal document that includes various aspects about the policing of the area, how the chief constable will be held to

account and how the PCC will use the money to deliver an effective and efficient service and support other services, such as victim support providers. We’ve had a great response already to the survey, but we want to continue to hear from as many local people, from all walks of life, right up until it closes. The survey is an opportunity for residents and businesses to tell me their views, thoughts and concerns about policing in their villages, towns and cities. As PCC, I am the bridge between local people and the police, and I want as many people as possible to tell me what they want their police service to focus on. The survey takes just 10 minutes to complete and will make a real difference to policing in your communities. You can find it at my website, www.

avonandsomerset-pcc.gov.uk. Last month, the Avon and Somerset road safety and road policing teams carried out enhanced operations across the area as part of a national speed enforcement campaign. Based on information and footage provided by local people, they targeted repeat offenders and speeding hotspots, including the Stoke Gifford area. They have also been working closely with partners including Community Speedwatch groups and local authorities to find solutions to some specific road safety concerns. Speeding is a choice that puts others’ lives at risk and I want to thank those who comply with speed limits to keep themselves and others safe. I am delighted that the police are listening to local people and working hard to

With Police and Crime Commissioner Mark Shelford address them by working closely with partners including local authorities, Highways England and the fire services to find solutions to road safety concerns. We all have a role to play in tackling speeding drivers, so do not forget that you can report speeding concerns to the police at www.avonandsomerset.police. uk/report.

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Email: contact@thornburyvoice.co.uk

n THORNBURY CLINIC

thornburyvoice

September, 2021

Massage therapy: Your questions and answers

Gemma King is a massage therapist at the Thornbury Clinic. Gemma has a wide array of skills to enable her to offer sports and remedial massage as well as relaxation and pregnancy massage.

TO shed a bit more light on what goes on during a typical massage session, we are answer some of your frequently asked questions. What is sports massage for? Not just sports injuries! Sports massage is a deep soft tissue massage that can help alleviate any aches, pains and niggles that may have crept up on you. These may be as a result of sport or training, playing with your children, poor posture, walking the dog or any other form of exercise. It can be delivered before and after exercise to enhance performance, reduce risk of injury and improve recovery. What is a remedial massage? During a remedial massage we will use skilled manipulation, combined with in-depth knowledge of anatomy and physiology, to address chronic conditions, postural or soft tissue imbalances,

4 Castle Street, Thornbury, Bristol BS35 1HB

Facilitating Recovery, Preventing Injury

as well as improving circulation, reducing pain, and bringing a sense of general well-being. This can be used to help with headaches or migraines, stress or anxiety, chronic pain and fatigue and much more. What is included in a relaxation massage? During a relaxation massage we aim to get you to feel as relaxed and peaceful as possible. We use a lighter more fluid technique to increase blood flow, flush out lactic acid and encourage relaxation of the muscles and mind. We will put on some relaxing music so you can zone out and relax as much as possible and we can tailor to your specific requirements – full body, just legs etc. What does a pregnancy massage involve? After your first trimester and up until your baby arrives, you can come for a pregnancy massage. Generally, we offer a more relaxing massage, but we can also help treat things such as sciatica and aching lower back and hips, which are often common complaints we see during pregnancy. Will it be painful? Everyone is different and we will adjust the pressure to suit you and your needs. You may experience some discomfort with some of the deeper techniques. However, we are often told that it is a 'good pain', in that you can feel some discomfort with the pressure but it feels like it is working the muscles well and helping to relieve tension. What do I need to wear? Anything that is comfortable. You

will likely be asked to undress to what is a comfortable level to you, for example removing the top half of clothing to be able to treat back and shoulders. Towels are then provided to cover you and we will only uncover what is necessary. We will also leave the room whilst you are getting changed to make the experience as comfortable as possible. Please tell us if you are uncomfortable with anything that we ask you to do: we are always able to work around this. What do I do during my massage? Relax and get comfortable! Your practitioner may ask you to move to different positions throughout your massage, depending on what areas of your body are being worked on. The main positions are laying down, usually either face up, face down or on your side. During your massage, feel free to talk to us – we are very friendly and love a chat! But we are happy to allow you to relax and have an hour of peace and quiet too, if that is what you would prefer. Are there any side effects? Hopefully, a feeling of calm and relaxation, which is a sign that your muscles have loosened and relaxed. You may get some soreness over the next 24 hours if there was some deeper treatment involved. We hope that we have covered a few of the basic questions that you may have regarding massage therapy. As always, if you would like any more information, please contact us via phone or email and we will be happy to help.

L & J Gulwell 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

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Email: contact@thornburyvoice.co.uk

thornburyvoice

September, 2021

n ADVERTISING FEATURE

A new way to experience Acton Court

Lady Joan Poyntz.” HE historic Acton Court in Iron Acton is re-opening to If this year’s tours prove the public, with a new way successful, there are plans to of enjoying the building extend the range on offer to and grounds. include an archaeologist’s tour, an Acton Court in local history tour In the past, tours of the Tudor and others that concentrate on buildings that hosted Henry VIII special subjects, such as the fabric could only be accessed with a of the building. professional guide. Leaflets for those who don’t But after covid forced a want to take an audio tour will also complete closure, organisers are be available and on most days a trialling a self-guided audio tour. professional guide will be on site to Spokesperson Lisa Kopper answer questions. told the Voice: "Access to the large Special events are also being rooms is generally through narrow offered and Acton Court is taking hallways and staircases and we part in September's National thought that visitors probably Heritage Open Days. wouldn’t want to be squashed together in small spaces. Lisa said: “Acton Court was built for a royal party and it has missed “So this year we’re trialling a self showing off to the public. guided audio tour system. We’ve Acton Court recorded popular tours with our "This year we opened on has a rich guides, some of whom have been August 22, which is exactly the Tudor history guiding here for 20 years. date when Henry VIII arrived 486 years ago.” "We’re starting with a standard tour in two parts, inside and and Tuesdays with the exception of Acton Court is open until outside, and a theatrical tour based bank holiday Monday. 8944-AC-Voice-ads-Aug-2021-180x120B.qxp_Voice 1/2 page 17/08/2021 14:15 Page 1 September 11, closed Mondays on the popular candlelit tours with Booking is essential: visiting

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ACTON COURT is open to the public 22 August to 12 September For booking information visit: www.actoncourt.com Follow us on social media

Acton Court Latteridge Road Iron Acton Bristol BS37 9TL | info@actoncourt.com | Information line: 01454 228 224

To advertise, contact Richard on 01454 800 120

Email: contact@thornburyvoice.co.uk

thornburyvoice

September, 2021

n COMMUNITY NEWS

Many happy returns for clubs and groups THORNBURY'S clubs and societies are returning to life as events and face-to-face meetings resume following the relaxation of covid restrictions. Organisations which have had to suspend activities since the start of the pandemic are announcing the resumption of regular meetings and special events, with many taking place in September. As events resume the Voice will bring back its What's On column to give voluntary groups and nonprofit organisations the chance to publicise events free of charge. Groups wanting to be included should email contact@ thornburyvoice.co.uk, including the name of the organisation, date, time and location of the event and a phone number or email address that anyone interested in attending can contact for more details. Entries should be no more than 40 words in total. Profit-making businesses running events can also contact the same email address for details

Severn Vale Flower Club is among the groups returning this month of advertising in the What's On section or elsewhere in the paper. Groups holding events in September include: Eastwood Gardeners Club, which is restarting meetings with a talk by Duncan Coombs on 'Barks, Stems and Evergreens for the Winter Garden' at 7pm on September 14 in the Avon Hall at

“The best part of my job is the wonderful people I work with, and care for” RETHINKING YOUR CAREER OPTIONS? RETURNING TO WORK? STARTING YOUR WORKING LIFE? LOOKING FOR FLEXIBLE HOURS? Join our local heroes in the health and care sector. As a care and support worker, you can help change people’s lives for the better, promoting independence, equalities and diversity and forming close bonds – in people’s own homes, supported living, a care home or nursing home. Apply for local jobs and find out about different roles, training & development opportunities and career paths: visit www.proudtocaresouthglos.org.uk or email: proudtocare@southglos.gov.uk South Gloucestershire Council supports our local providers to raise the profile of caring as a career, through the Proud to Care campaign.

Got News? Call Richard 0n 01454 800 120

Turnberries in Thornbury. Thornbury Memory Cafe, for anyone with memory issues and their carers, will also be reopening on September 14 and is looking forward to welcoming back existing friends and new ones who would like to join. The club will meet at the Methodist Church Hall in Castle Court from 10.15am to 11.45am, with coffee or tea and biscuits. Contact Sue Rowley on 01454 412941 or Louise Wright on 01454 260371 for more information. Thornbury Picture House is returning at a new venue, Thornbury Methodist Church Hall, on the first Saturday evening of the month. The club's first film is Sing Street, a musical comedy set in Dublin, on September 4 from 7pm, followed by Woman at War on October 2. Organisers promise the same high definition projection and surround sound as in their previous venue, the Armstrong Hall. More details are available by emailing films@ thornburypicturehouse.org. Severn Vale Flower Club will resume its meetings on the third Monday in the month at 2pm in St Marys Hall in Eastbury Close, Thornbury, from September. Meetings are focused on a flower arranging demonstration, usually by a guest demonstrator, followed by a raffle of the designs made by the demonstrator and the opportunity to chat to other members over tea, coffee and biscuits. The club runs classes with a

different theme and competitions each month. For more information contact Sally on ssjjtaylor@hotmail.co.uk or Hazel on 01454 885213. Armstrong Arts Group is hosting an evening of jazz classics from the Jenner Jazz Quartet at the United Reformed Church on September 11, at 7.30pm. Tickets cost £12, including a drink, and are available by calling 01454 850933. The group is also reminding people who booked tickets for the cancelled jazz evening in March last year that refunds are available at Thornbury Town Hall. Alveston Local History Group has announced its first three meetings for the autumn, starting on September 22 at 7.30pm with a talk on the history of Frenchay Hospital with Alan Freke. Meetings take place at Alveston Methodist Church, with talks on the royal palaces of Cheddar and Gloucester Cathedral planned for October 27 and November 24 respectively. Visitors should call 01454 417578 or email dandmcad@ googlemail.com if they would like to attend. Thornbury Good Afternoon Choir will return on Thursday September 2 at Thornbury United Reformed Church with a new leader, Brendan Casey. No auditions are required to join the choir, which has an accent on enjoyment through music together and making new friends. For more information visit www. goodafternoonchoir.org, email gac@ grenvillemusic.co.uk or call 01761 472468.

ALMSHOUSE FLAT AVAILABLE IN THORNBURY The Thornbury Town Trust has a first floor one bedroom flat available in Thornbury. Applicants are required to be over 60, single or widowed, and of good character. Applicants must be resident in Thornbury and able to live independently. There are four flats in the block and residents pay a monthly maintenance fee to help with running costs. The Trustees will take into account the applicant’s financial circumstances and their housing and social needs. If you are interested please contact: Sally Bertram, Clerk to the Trustees to establish eligibility. You can ring 07835 110766, email sallytowntrust@gmail.com or write to Thornbury Town Trust, c/o Town Hall, 35 High Street, Thornbury BS35 2AR.

Email: contact@thornburyvoice.co.uk

thornburyvoice

September, 2021

n NEWS

Ride and stride for churches A GROUP helping historic churches in South Gloucestershire is marking its 40th year. Gloucestershire Historic Churches Trust raises funds and provides £150,000 in grants for churches every year in Gloucestershire, South Gloucestershire and North Bristol. The non-profit group's church renovation and improvement grants help keep the buildings active as centres of community life and landmarks of the area's architectural heritage. The trust's main fundraising event is its Ride and Stride, which this year takes place on September 11, which coincides with Heritage Open Days. Retired priest Rev Tom Keates, of the Benefice of Thornbury and Oldbury-onSevern with Shepperdine, and friends intend to walk around the churches in our area to raise

Fundraisers on last year's Ride and Stride event funds to support this work. Anyone who would like to sponsor the team can do so online by visiting justgiving.com/ fundraising/thomas-keates4. Donors who are not online can give cash or a cheque, payable to Gloucestershire Historic Churches Trust, to Tom personally or to the mail box at

St Mary’s Church in Thornbury. Gift aid donors will need to include their name, first line of their address and post code. The money raised will be shared between the trust and local churches. For more information about the trust visit ghct.org.uk online.

Have a say on green spaces PEOPLE are being encouraged to have their say on plans to improve the network of green spaces and water courses, including parks, nature reserves and other open spaces across South Gloucestershire. The council's draft Green Infrastructure Strategy, known as ‘Greener Places’, is open to comment until September 12. It involves plans to protect the area's "green infrastructure" of parks, woodland, farmland and water, and improve and create more habitat for nature. Council cabinet member for the environment, Steve Reade, said the strategy "recognises that we all have a part to play in responding to the challenges of the changing climate and the nature crisis." People can view the strategy and have their say online at consultations.southglos.gov.uk/ Greener_Places.

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Email: contact@thornburyvoice.co.uk

thornburyvoice

September, 2021

n SPORT

Exciting season ahead for Thornbury Town THE games have been coming thick and fast since Thornbury Town's season started on August 3. The first team started life in the Hellenic Premier Division with a 2-1 win over Tuffley Rovers, courtesy of goals from Frazer Moss and Rhys Hodgson. This set them up for their first ever home match in the Emirates FA Cup, against Royal Wootton Bassett Town. However, in front of a crowd of over 200, Thorns didn’t rise to the occasion and the visitors enjoyed a comfortable 4-0 victory. Three more games against early pacemakers Corsham Town, Fairford Town and Bishops Cleeve showed just how competitive this league will be. An Elliott Gardner header from a corner earned Town a point in a 1-1 draw at Corsham, whilst the home game against Fairford saw Hodgson give Thorns the lead before the visitors proved the stronger in the second half,

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edging a 2-1 win. The trip to early league leaders Bishops Cleeve saw Town match their hosts for a lot of the game, but a 15 minute spell in the second half saw Thorns lose their shape and subsequently lose the game 2-0. Whilst the results have not always gone their way, Town have shown they can compete at this level of football, and an exciting season lies ahead. Most of the club's other sides start their seasons early in

Thornbury v Royal Wootton Bassett Town. Picture: Steve Green Photography. September, including the girls' teams: the growth in girls and women’s football has not been lost on the club's committee, which is expanding its junior section to include three sides, at U10, U12 and U14 levels. The club is always looking out for prospective new players, including those who have never played before, and anyone interested in joining will be made welcome. In the first instance, please contact the girls teams' coordinator Jack Harrison-

Bond on 07539 471637 for more information. The junior boys section continues to go from strength to strength and, with the addition of a new under 9s team, they now cater for U7s up to U18s. Again, any boys interested in playing should contact the relevant age group manager, whose details can be found on the club website. Thorns are also looking to recruit some more match day helpers: anyone who would like to get involved should call chairman Pete Webber on 07732 466606. Whilst it is a voluntary role, helpers will get free entry to games and a cup of tea! Town are also looking to appoint a match-day physio, which may well suit a student studying physiotherapy or sports science at university: contact Pete Webber or Malcolm Carr (07737 163118) for more details. Malcolm Carr

Return to action for Thornbury Rugby

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THORNBURY may have suffered a second pre-season defeat against strong South West Premier side Hornets, but the side will feel they are in a good place with the new season starting in September. The club’s new changing rooms and medical facility were officially opened by local councillor Matthew Riddle, but the focus was on the action on pitch. Thornbury began well. After 15 minutes scrum half Will Beese took a quick penalty deep in the Hornets' 22 and James Wood crashed over for the opening score before converting for a 7-0 lead. This stung Hornets into action and prop Mua Inoke barged over between the posts, with Kieran Hill’s conversion tying the score. Hornets then took the lead, skipper Matthew Parker scoring an unconverted try on the half hour mark, to lead 12-7 at the break. It was Hornets who struck early in the second half when wing Gareth Brock went over in the corner. Jack Martin converted from the touchline with the goal kick of the day, to put them 19-7 ahead. Thorns hit back with a spectacular try after space was created out wide for Sam Garbett to sprint in on his debut. Max Curtis converted to reduce the deficit to five points but lock Courtney Harris barged over for another Hornets try shortly afterwards, with Martin converting again. Max Curtis then scored a fine try, stepping through the Hornets cover defence to score between the posts. His conversion made it 21-26 and Thornbury’s tails were up. But Brock managed to dance his way in for a late try. Martin’s conversion heralded the final whistle and a 33-21 win for the Somerset side. Dave Fox

Email: contact@thornburyvoice.co.uk

September, 2021

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Tel: 01454 822580 or Mobile: 07980 567726 mark.kembrey@hotmail.co.uk www.mkbuildingservicesbristol.co.uk

01454 660046

CARPET CLEANING

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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

RUBBISH CLEARANCE

GARDENING Call 07490 514641 01454 616034

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LANDSCAPING & TREE SERVICES

d.attwellgardenservices@hotmail.co.uk

LALU’S GARDENING SERVICES 

D. ATTWELL

Email: lalugardenservices@gmail.com 11 Years experience Hard and soft landscaping - creating lawns fences and decking - tree and hedge cutting We will design your garden for future low maintenance. We provide clearance for waste and long term regular maintenance We use top 3 UK artificial grass We use Asian stone patio slabs

GROUNDWORKS • Patios • Tarmac • Fencing • Turfing • Decking • Drainage • Driveways • Blockpaving • Foundations • Site Clearance • Concrete Bases • Stump Removal

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

To advertise, contact Richard on 01454 800 120

Email: contact@thornburyvoice.co.uk

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

FRIDAY 8TH OCTOBER 2-5PM

Book your Open Day tour or arrange a private tour with our Headmaster to find out how we could be the perfect fit for your family.

Discover our small friendly classes, wrap-around care and family approach to education. Join us for Year 7 and 8 and benefit from our enviable success in delivering entry into first choice senior schools, many with scholarships. 01454 613229

asymonds@tockingtonmanorschool.com