THORNBURY Carnival celebrated its 90th birthday in style, with two days of events. Mike Ashfield, of Thornbury Camera Club, captured headliners Louis and the Lovecats on stage. Report and more pictures: Pages 6&7.
A COUPLE who took over a Thornbury pub last year have thanked the community for their "incredible" support after their baby twins were born with a life-threatening condition.
Craig Bright and Kimberley Wall say they have been "blown away" by the support they have received since their boys, Louie and Ray, were born prematurely.
They have announced that they are stepping away from running the pub due to the commitment needed to look after the twins - but have thanked the town's community for helping them through.
Turn to page 4
Pictured right: Twins Louie (front) and Ray
20mph zones
NEW 20mph speed limits are being proposed for 41 roads in new housing estates in Thornbury.
PAGE 2
'Outstanding' pre-school
A village pre-school near Thornbury has been given the highest possible rating by Ofsted.
PAGE 5
Transplant hope
A MUM who appealed in the Voice for a live kidney donor is waiting to see if a volunteer who stepped forward is a match.
PAGE 11
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20mph limits on way
NEW 20mph speed limits are being proposed for 41 roads in new housing estates in Thornbury.
The roads are on new developments built off Morton Way and Butt Lane.
South Gloucestershire Council also wants to reduce the limit on parts of Oldbury Lane that currently have a 60mph limit down to 40mph.
The council published an order to introduce the limits on July 9, with a consultation open until August 2.
Announcing the move on its consultation page, the council said: "Thornbury has recently seen significant expansion with several pockets of new residential development being built along Morton Way and Butt Lane between Morton Street and Grovesend Road.
"Further development is also planned to the south of Oldbury Lane in the near future.
"These proposals aim to manage traffic speeds in this area following the urbanisation of what used to be rural farmland.
"This would bring all the new speed limits under one order, funded by the various development companies involved.
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"These new developments have streets that were designed to encourage lower traffic speeds and so these proposals aim to reflect the residential nature of these streets."
The streets proposed for 20mph limits are: Barley Fields, Bells Close, Bramley Road, Bridge Hill Close, Buttercup Road, Cleve Leaze, Cleve Wood Road, Clover Ground, Clover Road, Collester Way, Colwell Close, Corn Rows, Deer Park, Epicure Road, Farmers Walk, Golden Spire, Harvest Way, Haybob Road, Hay Fields, Horse Leaze, Maize Close, Marbled White Close, Meadow Brown Close, Nelmes Close, Paddock Road, Pastoral Road, Peacock Road, Pippen Drive, Purple Emperor Road, Red Admiral Way, Rye Ground, Rustic Way, Scythe Way, Shrew Gardens, Speckled Wood Road, Squirrel Crescent, Swallowtail Close, Ten Acres Road, Thresher Close, Wild Flower Road and Withy Leaze.
The consultation can be found on the council's website at tinyurl.com/5jjya77u.
The page includes more details of the proposals, maps of the affected roads, and a statement of reasons for the order, along with a link to a questionnaire for people to comment.
Anyone who is not online can call 01454 868009 for more information.
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VOLUNTEERS for Thornbury in Bloom are inviting people to join them in showing off the town at its best when judges for two competitions visit.
The town is due to be assessed by judges for the South West in Bloom competition on Friday August 1, and the Britain in Bloom National Finals on the following Tuesday, August 5.
A big clean-up in preparation for judging has already begun.
Thornbury In Bloom chair Kath Greenman said: "We hope readers have noticed the beautiful floral transformation of Thornbury High Street, Castle Court, Rock Street, The Plain and the Town Hall area and Steps.
"This has all come about following months of planning and collaboration between Thornbury in Bloom, South
Gloucestershire Council, Amberol (planter suppliers) and Thornbury Town Council.
"As we approach our assessment dates, we really hope this combined effort is recognised by the judges, along with all of the amazing work that goes on in Thornbury to make it such a lovely place to live.
"We are enormously grateful to so many local businesses, schools, other community
groups, residents and charities, for their amazing support and sponsorship this year and we invite everyone to join us in the High Street on the 1st and 5th, from around midday, to take part in the final part of the tour.
To help out, contact the group via Facebook, website www. thornburyinbloom.org.uk or email thornburyinbloom91@ gmail.com.
Gromit damaged
THORNBURY'S Gromit statue had to be taken away for repairs after being damaged.
The Secret Keeper at the St Mary Centre is understood to have been damaged at around 1am on July 19 and needed a repair to its leg.
A spokesperson for The Grand Appeal, which is running the Gromit Unleashed 3 trail, said brackets needed to be replaced, adding: "The sculpture itself is fine.”
St Mary Centre manager Alan Cole said there had been a "fantastic" response to the statue, which had brought "lots of new visitors to the town".
A themed fun day with artist Hannah McVicar in July raised more than £800 for the Bristol Children’s Hospital charity. Is your family following the Gromit Unleashed 3 trail this summer? If you'd like to see one of your pictures in the Voice, email it, with the name of the statue and anyone in the picture, to contact@thornburyvoice. co.uk by August 19.
Thornbury in Bloom volunteers with the Gromit statue, before it was damaged
Parents of twins thank 'incredible' community
From page 1
Craig took over the Malthouse in Thornbury High Street just last September, having previously run The Black Horse at Gillingstool.
Partner Kim was pregnant at the time and they thought running the pub together would be a good way to help each other out.
But Louie and Ray were born prematurely at 33 weeks in December, and spent 63 days in a neonatal intensive care unit.
Kim said: "We always knew they had something called laryngomalacia, where the larynx collapsed partially.
"It's something you can manage most of the time at home. But they kept having episodes of stopping breathing."
In March, Craig had just put Louie into the car when his breathing alarm went off.
Kim said: "Craig screamed for me – I thought Louie had gone. Louie was in his car seat, had turned grey and had blood coming down his chin."
By chance, police officers had
just arrived to do a spot check at the pub and told the couple to put Louie in a certain position, then called an ambulance before Louie took a breath.
Kim said Louie needed surgery at Bristol Children’s Hospital and was on a ventilator, before going to London's Great Ormond Street hospital for more surgery.
After ten days there he was brought back to Bristol and both he and Ray were in hospital together after Ray’s airway collapsed in May.
Kim said she had to take the younger of their other three children, aged between six and 15, to London while Louie was there.
The surgery worked and Louis recovered enough to come home in July - but Ray also needed treatment at Great Ormond Street.
Doctors are observing Louie’s recovery from surgery before operating on Ray, who returned home later in the month.
Kim said: "His airway has got stronger but he may need surgery at a future date."
Arrest after cyclist is killed
A CYCLIST died in a crash with a car near the Severn Bridge.
Police say the driver of the car involved in the collision in Aust on June 29 was arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving and drug driving.
They are appealing for witnesses and anyone with dashcam or CCTV video footage that could help their investigation to get in touch.
A police spokesperson said the collision happened at 12.36pm on Aust Road, and involved a grey Mercedes car and a cyclist.
Craig and Kim are grateful for the support they have received.
Kim said: "We have had overwhelming support from the community, from friends and family and all our customers, and staff who have sometimes run the pub for us. Incredible.
"The only downside is we haven’t been able to manage the pub as we would have liked.
"The staff have been phenomenal. We are forever grateful for our staff, customers and community.
"People have cleared our back garden, Thornbury in Bloom planted flowers in pots, we’ve had customers changing barrels, customers holding the baby –we are absolutely blown away by the support and grateful to everybody.
"We have been running on adrenaline; the last few weeks was the hardest thing, and we are now starting to crash. It has affected us mentally, emotionally and financially.
"It will be nice to live a normal life again with all the children home – we are the lucky ones who brought our boys home
The spokesperson said: "Tragically, despite the best efforts of the ambulance service, the cyclist died at the scene.
"Their next of kin have been informed and will be supported by a family liaison officer. Our thoughts are with them.
"We arrested a man, aged 30, from Lydney in Gloucestershire, on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving.
"He has since been released under investigation and our enquiries continue."
No details about the cyclist have been released. Anyone with information should call 101 and quote the crime reference number 5225 181 772.
from the children’s hospital.”
Kim and Craig have not yet decided on their future plans.
Kim said: "Unfortunately the pub wasn’t the right time. The brewery has been very supportive but we’re no longer going to be part of the pub due to our family commitments.
Trial over crash death
A DRIVER is due to face trial next year charged with causing the death of a young Thornbury man.
Tyler Carley, aged 20, died when the scaffolding lorry he was a passenger in overturned on the A4174 Avon Ring Road near Mangotsfield in December 2023.
Michael Jon Ronner was later charged with causing death by careless or inconsiderate driving in connection with the incident.
Ronner, aged 38, of Warmley, appeared at Bristol Crown Court in late June, when a date for a trial was set for March next year.
Craig Bright with twins Ray and Louie.
Pre-school is 'outstanding'
CHILDREN "thrive" at a village pre-school near Thornbury which has been given the highest possible rating by Ofsted.
An inspector who visited Stepping Stones Pre-School at Elberton in June said it was 'outstanding' in all areas: quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, leadership and management, and personal development.
The pre-school operates from Elberton Village Hall and has 35 children aged from two to four on its roll, providing governmentfunded childcare places and also specific funding for disadvantaged children.
The regulator's visit was its first since 2019, when the setting was rated 'good'.
Inspector Linda Witts said: "Children thrive at the pre-school, are highly motivated to learn and make impressive progress from their individual starting points.
"All children have excellent relationships with the staff, who show genuine warmth and kindness to them."
She said children play exceptionally well together and form strong friendships, while staff are "excellent role models, who support children to develop confident social skills, independence and impeccable behaviour".
Said staff promote language and literacy skills through "excellent" use of books, songs and rhymes.
The inspector said: "The staff are all highly enthusiastic in their roles. They work with a passion to ensure that every child has the very best learning experiences.
“Staff have an in-depth understanding of children’s needs, interests and abilities and an excellent overview of where every child is in their learning.
"The exciting curriculum takes full account of what each child needs to learn next. Staff instinctively offer the encouragement and support the children need to foster their all-round learning."
The inspector said staff skilfully challenge children to develop their language and thinking and mathematical awareness, including simple calculations and problem-solving.
Children "relish" outdoor play, including building structures, playing with water and climbing trees under "vigilant supervision".
Staff were recognised for “instinctively knowing when to be actively involved in children's play to extend their learning, and when to stand back and let them play freely”.
The inspector said: "Parents describe the staff as ‘fantastic, friendly and highly supportive’… the provision exceeds their expectations and their children thoroughly enjoy attending.
"Parents feel extremely well informed about their children's experiences and attribute their children's significant progress to the support the children receive from staff."
Manager Anna Thompson said: "We are beyond proud of our recent outstanding grading by Ofsted.
"We have a wonderful staffing team who all go above and beyond, and the inspector saw this on her visit.
"We could not be the setting we are without the support of our staff and parents as well as all the wonderful children that attend Stepping Stones."
Staff and children at Stepping Stones Pre-School
Thousands enjoy carnival's 90th birthday
THORNBURY Carnival organisers say this year's 90th anniversary event was a big success.
Although final attendance numbers had yet to be confirmed as the Voice went to print, the event's committee said "several thousand carnival-goers, ranging from the very young to the still young at heart" had come to the two-day event on the Mundy Playing Fields.
The carnival featured two events - Swing in the Park on the evening of July 4 and The Main Event, which ran for 12 hours on July 5.
It was the culmination of months of planning.
Thornbury Carnival Committee chair Liam Williams said: "Planning actually began back in September last year, so what the public and attendees see is really just the tip of a very large iceberg!
"We’re just a small committee at present - there’s about a dozen of us who work year-round to organise the event, everything from deciding on the line-up and booking performers, to ordering the infrastructure like stages, generators, and port-a-loos, to updating the website and creating content for social media; it’s a very long to do list and the very last thing on that list is delivering the event.
"This is without a doubt the most exciting and rewarding part of the whole process but we really wouldn’t be able to do it without the support and hard work of numerous individuals and groups."
Liam thanked the many people who had ensured the event could go ahead, from local
businesses who had given "fantastic support" to Thornbury Town Council.
He said: "We also must mention everyone who contributed over the weekend, including our community acts, the bands, everyone who booked a stall, the children’s entertainers, the Show ‘n’ Shine participants, all of the volunteers who gave their time in various capacities, our security team but most of all everyone who bought a ticket, came along and created an amazing atmosphere despite the stiff breeze and occasional drizzle!”
The event featured 12 live music performances and five sets from young local DJ KitKat, with a host of children's activities, stalls, fairground rides, inflatables and donkeys from Weston-super-Mare.
It marked 90 years since the first Thornbury Carnival took place in 1935, as part of the official celebrations of King George V’s Silver Jubilee.
The committee is already looking ahead to next year, with a countdown already underway on the website at www.thornburycarnival.co.uk.
Liam said a debrief meeting was due to be held following the event, with the committee taking a break in August before returning to start planning the 2026 event.
OPEN DAY - Friday 19 September
The crowd responds to headliners Louis and the Lovecats. Picture: Simon Riches, Thornbury Camera Club
Carnival captured on camera
MEMBERS of Thornbury Camera Club were on hand throughout Thornbury Carnival to record entertainers and visitors alike enjoying the two-day event. More pictures from club members can be seen via a link on the carnival website, www.thornburycarnival.co.uk.
Bubble artist. Picture: Simon Meeds
Songbirds Women's Choir. Picture: Nigel Newman
Thornbury Rotary Club human fruit machine. Picture: Mike Ashfield
Face painting. Picture: Mervyn Reed.
Getting into the music. Picture: George Collett
Panache steel drummers entertain the crowd.
Picture: Simon Riches
Thornbury Swing Band. Picture: Mike Ashfield
Umbrella tug-of-war. Picture: Colin Waterhouse
Shades Party Band. Picture: Simon Riches
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National awards for Marlwood's stage talent
MARLWOOD School students have won national recognition for their stage performances.
Four Year 11 students who took part in last year's school production of Les Misérables were nominated for prestigious National School Theatre Awards.
They were: Nathanael Moss for Best Actor in a Musical, James Cullyer for Best Supporting Actor in a Musical, Aoibhinn O'Neill for Best Supporting Actress in a Musical, and Owen Hoggarth for Best Solo in a Musical.
A group of six pupils headed to London's West End for the awards ceremony in late June with school head of drama Becky Ferguson, for a showpiece
ceremony attended by hundreds of young performers from schools across the UK at the Gillian Lynne Theatre in Drury Lane.
Mrs Ferguson said: "The four students were nominated for their outstanding performances in last summer’s production, which received widespread praise for its ambition, professionalism and emotional impact."
On the night Owen Hoggarth won the Best Solo in a Musical award for his "moving and deeply emotional" performance of Empty Chairs and Empty Tables, which the school described as a highlight of the production.
Mrs Ferguson said: "This achievement is a phenomenal
testament to the talent, dedication and hard work of Marlwood’s students, and we are incredibly proud of all the nominees.
"The success of Owen and all the nominees on the national stage reflects the strength, dedication and creativity of Marlwood School’s performing arts community."
The school thanked Mrs Ferguson and her team for their "expert direction and unwavering commitment to the performing arts" at Marlwood.
This summer the school performed the gangster comedy Bugsy Malone, with performances taking place in early July.
Traders ask for MP meeting over parking
THE body representing Thornbury traders is set to write to the town's MP to ask for a meeting to discuss car parking charges.
Thornbury Chamber of Commerce will request the meeting with Claire Young as traders say the trade is being badly hit by the charges at the town's main car parks, which were introduced in May.
Liliana Camara, the coowner of Parky's Chippy in the High Street, says lunchtime trade is down by at least 50% since the charges were brought in, with afternoon sales down by 30%.
She said: "We use to open
with people lining up down the road, now we are seeing four or five customers before 6pm - it’s an absolute joke.
"I've been here for 11 years and I’ve never seen it like this."
A chamber of commerce spokesperson said the organisation was gathering an "evidence base" on business performance since the introduction of the charges, adding: "We can then present our views on the charges and ways of mitigating the effects that those charges have on our membership businesses and others in the town."
South Gloucestershire Council says the charges are
needed to raise £800,000 to meet budgetary pressures.
A council meeting in July heard total income from the first seven weeks of charging was £146,000. The figure includes season tickets, which can be for up to a year's parking.
The council says it is "monitoring and evaluating" the effect of the charges on car park usage, footfall and business occupancy.
Asked if car park use was in line with expectations, a spokesperson said: "Typically, a settling-in period of three to six months is required before we begin analysing stable data."
The council confirmed the costs of new machines, signs and road markings for the scheme was £750,000.
Staff time, surveys, groundworks and other set-up costs are just over £240,000 to date, and the cost of the contract to run parking payments is just over £196,000.
The council has employed one extra officer to process notices, at a cost of £31,000, part of an annual cost of £350,000 to operate the 22 council-owned car parks where charges are in force.
Owen Hoggarth won the Best Solo in a Musical award
Marlwood School head of drama Becky Ferguson with the students at the awards in London.
Patients happy with Thornbury surgeries
THORNBURY residents have praised the service they receive from their GP surgeries.
More than than 700,000 patients across the country responded to this year's NHS GP Patient Survey, including more than 100 patients at each of the practices serving the area.
The survey found that 87% of patients at Severn View Family Practice, based at Thornbury Health Centre in Eastland Road, said they had a good experience, up from 80% last year and well above the average of 76% in the region and 75% nationally.
At neighbouring Streamside Surgery, 88% of patients had a good experience, down slightly from 89% last year.
At St Mary Street Surgery 83% of patients were happy with their experience, down slightly from 88% in 2024, and at Almondsbury Surgery the number was 82%, down slightly on last year's 86% satisfaction rating.
Asked how easy it was to reach their surgery on the phone, at Severn View 64% of patients said it was easy – up from 49% last year and above the national average of 53%.
At Streamside 88% found it easy – the same percentage as last year.
At St Mary Street 74% of patients reported no problems getting through, up from 68% last year.
The number of people who could get through easily to Almondsbury rose from 65% to 70%.
When it came to booking appointments, at Severn View 54% were offered a choice of appointment, with 27% seen on the same day, 7% seen on the next day and 28% waiting a week or more. Others were either seen within a week or couldn't remember how long they waited, and 72% felt they waited the right amount of time to be seen, against a national average of 66%.
At Streamside, only 63% of patients were offered a choice, with 85% saying they waited the right amount of time: 30% were
offered same-day appointments, 10% nextday and 24% waited a week or more.
At St Mary Street, 73% of patients were offered a choice of appointment times or days, and the same percentage thought they waited the right amount of time. Sameday appointments were offered to 29% of patients, with 4% offered the next day and 46% waiting a week or more.
Almondsbury Surgery was able to offer 55% of its patients a choice of appointment, with 70% feeling they waited the right amount of time. Same-day appointments were offered to 17% of patients, with 9% next day and 42% waiting a week or more.
More than 90% of patients at all four practices said they felt confidence in the healthcare professional who they saw.
A spokesperson for the NHS Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire Integrated Care Board, which is in charge of funding surgeries, said: "We welcome this valuable feedback on local GP services and it is encouraging to see that results are in line with national averages.
"As in previous years we will continue to use the survey data, alongside other information, to help us identify practices that may need additional support, working with them to improve their resilience and services to patients."
call:07491024606 email:yate@stagecoach.co.uk www.stagecoach.co.uk/yate call:07491024606 join us for an exciting week of singing, dancing and acting, all building up to a spectacular end of week performance! join us for an exciting week of singing, dancing and acting, all building up to a spectacular end of week performance!
Appeal brings Tania hope
AN ALVESTON mum who made an appeal for a live kidney donor is waiting to see if a volunteer who stepped forward is a match.
Tania Allen made the appeal in the Voice last month, and shared the online version of our story on Facebook, catching the attention of the potential donor.
Tania said: "They messaged me via Facebook, as I’d been sharing the article on there - that’s where they saw my appeal. "I was very overwhelmed."
Tania said the relevant paperwork has been completed and tests are currently underway to see the pair are a match.
She has a rare blood group and tissue type, which means she is likely to face a longer wait than other people on the national donor register.
Tania said: "Southmead Hospital have said there’s no medical reason the next steps can’t happen. Blood tests [are needed] to see if they are a match and they need to get their
BMI down.
"So, it’s just waiting now, but keeping my fingers crossed.”
Tania first started having dialysis for kidney failure in March 2023 and currently has it three times a week for four hours at a time.
She told the Voice her illness has had a severe impact on family life and she is no longer able to support her younger child the way she needs “until I get a transplant and have recovered”.
Tania is desperate to “have my family back together and get our lives on track again” after her illness has had a devastating effect on her family life.
Whatever the outcome of the tests, Tania is urging more people to consider becoming a live donor and take a test.
She said: “If not a match for me, someone else out there is hoping for a donor and the person who has come forward could be a match for them.”
Anyone who is interested in becoming a live donor for Tania can call Southmead Hospital on 0117 414 5295 and say they are interested in being tested as a match for Tania Allen.
Charity Kidney Care UK is also backing the call for live donors.
Policy director Fiona Loud said: "Many people don’t realise that you can donate a kidney to someone and live perfectly well
Tania Allen.
with just one kidney - those who have done so say it is one of the greatest things they have ever done."
For more information about becoming a living donor, visit bit.ly/4laEjtZ.
Kidney Care UK runs a support line on 0808 801 0000 and offers email support at support@kidneycareuk.org.
525 new homes for village approved
DEVELOPERS have been granted permission to build hundreds of homes in a rapidly expanding village, despite more than 400 objections.
A total of 525 homes, a neighbourhood centre, football pitches and allotments will be built in Charfield, even though concerns have been raised over a lack of public services.
The new housing estate will be called Pennymeads, and will be built on farmland south of the village.
The plans were approved by councillors on South Gloucestershire Council's strategic sites delivery committee at the end of June, with six votes in favour and three against.
Charlotte Robinson, representing the applicants CEG, said: “This application brings forward a site which has been identified by the council to be suitable, appropriate and deliverable for residential
development.
"The proposal would deliver new homes, including 35% affordable, housing suitable for older people, and 5% plots for self and custom build.
“There would be an opportunity for small businesses to be established or grow at the local centre. "Extensive green infrastructure is proposed, including three football pitches and changing rooms. Other types of open space will be provided, such as walking routes, children’s play areas and allotments.”
Developers would put forward £2.3 million to help reopen Charfield railway station, improve bus services and establish a “greenway” between Charfield and Wottonunder-Edge.
The 402 residents who objected raised concerns including traffic problems, lack of facilities for young people, air and noise pollution, unreliable bus services, the oversubscribed primary school, destruction of the countryside and wildlife habitats, flooding, and claims the proposals would effectively turn Charfield into a town.
Three parish councils objected, saying the development was unsustainable, there was a lack of local employment, and local services were already under strain.
Charfield ward Liberal Democrat councillor John O’Neil said: "There have been many objections - some of these are justified and a lot of them are because of the level of development we’ve had in Charfield.
"It’s quite a distressing thing. We’ve had three [major developments] in the last seven or eight years, and they all come onto the Wotton Road."
While Charfield is close to the Gloucestershire town of Wotton-under-Edge, councillors and local residents believe the village needs its own services upgraded too.
Councillor Liz Brennan (Con, Frenchay & Downend) said: "If it was me living in Charfield, and I was getting all these houses, and they’ve already seen so many new houses, I would want out of this so much more.
"I would want a bigger shop, a guarantee that my children could go to school there, buses, and just so much more. We’re offering them the bare minimum.”
By Alex Seabrook, Local Democracy Reporting Service
The Greenprint Project: cutting grass, cutting carbon
We’re turning everyday grass cuttings into green energy – and helping the planet while we’re at it.
The Greenprint project is testing new ways to manage selected green spaces and roadside verges across South Gloucestershire. By mowing less often and collecting the clippings, we’re making our green spaces better for the environment, our communities, and the local economy.
In seven town and parish council areas across South Gloucestershire, we’re trying something new. Instead of leaving the grass cuttings on the ground, we send it to anaerobic digestion plants, where it’s turned into biogas – a renewable energy source made from methane and carbon dioxide.
This renewable gas, made of methane and carbon dioxide, can be used to generate electricity and heat, or even converted into biomethane for the national gas grid or as vehicle fuel – which is what the lorry that collects our grass cuttings runs on. This means
less reliance on fossil fuels, lower carbon emissions, and potential cost savings for councils and communities.
Last year, in South Gloucestershire, we cut and collected 144 hectares of grass – equivalent to more than 201 football pitches.
In Thornbury alone, we cut and collected over 20 tonnes of grass, from an area which is about the size of 11 football pitches.
Greenprint is part of ADEPT Live Labs 2, a £30 million, UK-wide programme funded by the Department for Transport. It’s all about finding new ways to decarbonise local roads and make our infrastructure more sustainable.
Learn more about the project at:
www.southglos.gov.uk/ greenprint
How the developer say the new homes will look
Wildfires warning after spate of blazes
THORNBURY firefighters are urging extreme caution after having to respond to four wildfires in just 24 hours during a recent hot spell.
The town's fire crew issued a warning via social media.
They said: "Please be careful lighting fires during dry conditions as the fire can spread quickly, especially with strong winds."
An Avon Fire & Rescue Service spokesperson told the Voice: “In the first 17 days of July alone, Thornbury had eight wild fires.
“Since April 2025, there have been 28 fires in Thornbury town itself and in the surrounding area.”
Despite some recent rain, the risk of wild fires is still not far away.
The spokesperson urged residents and visitors to take extra precautions to prevent fires and heat-related illnesses when temperatures rise and vegetation begins to dry out.
They said: "With prolonged dry conditions across the region, the risk of accidental fires has significantly increased.
"Actions like discarding a cigarette or leaving a disposable barbecue unattended can have devastating consequences."
Fire prevention manager Nikki Rice said:
“We’re asking everyone to be mindful of their actions during this summer, as outdoor fires can be preventable. A little extra care can go a long way in keeping our communities, parks and countryside safe.
"By taking small steps – like disposing of waste responsibly and keeping an eye on open flames – we can all play a part in preventing wildfires."
Three years ago a wildfire came close to engulfing St Arilda's church in Oldbury on Severn, at the height of a heatwave in August.
Farmers and residents pitched in to help firefighters stop the blaze reaching the building during a blaze, which damaged 12 acres of fields, hedgerows and the churchyard.
Avon Fire & Rescue Service has issued a series of tips:
*Dry vegetation: avoid open flames or hot machinery near dry grass or woodland. Even a small spark can quickly lead to a wildfire.
*Smoking: always extinguish cigarettes and smoking materials completely before disposal. Never throw cigarette butts on the ground, especially in grassy or wooded areas.
*Glass bottles: Take litter home, as discarded glass can focus sunlight and start fires in dry grasslands.
*Barbecues: use disposable barbecues responsibly. Never leave them unattended, and ensure they are fully extinguished and cooled before discarding.
*Bonfires: Refrain from lighting bonfires during dry conditions. If a bonfire is essential, never leave it unattended and ensure it is fully extinguished before leaving the site.
*Heat risks: Stay hydrated, take regular breaks in shaded areas, and watch for signs of heat exhaustion or heat stroke, especially in children, older adults, and pets.
Thornbury firefighters at a call-out near Thornbury
Grace Care Centre in Thornbury
Located in the historic town of Thornbury, Grace Care Centre is a vibrant care home and takes pride in challenging preconceptions of the sector.
Whether it’s singing along at a festival, sipping drinks at cocktail evenings, or enjoying trips to local landmarks, we believe everyone should continue to live their best life when they move into a care home.
We’re part of The Orders of St John Care Trust
Grace Care Centre is proud to be part of The Orders of St John Care Trust (OSJCT), one of the leading not-for-profit care organisations in the UK. As a longstanding charitable organisation, dedicated to the care of others, we take pride in reinvesting back into our residents, team members, and care homes.
Extra care housing approved
PLANS to build extra care housing for elderly people on the former site of Thornbury Hospital have passed their latest stage.
A housing association could build up to 75 affordable homes could be built on the site, providing independent living with care provision where needed.
Thornbury Hospital closed down a few years ago and was recently demolished.
South Gloucestershire Council's cabinet approved plans to move ahead with the housing development on July 14.
Cabinet councillor for adults and homes John O’Neil said: "It’s important to us because it’s 100 per cent affordable homes for people who will spend the rest of
their lives in these.
"Not only does it help with the elderly people who we’re going to put in there, it will free up social housing and help the HomeChoice list."
South Gloucestershire lacks enough extra care housing, a sort of accommodation where elderly people live independently and individually, with their own front doors, but with additional care and support on site. There are also community spaces too, to help prevent social isolation.
The council will work with a housing association, who will build the accommodation and then manage the building. It’s unclear when construction will begin. Three years ago the council bought the hospital site from the NHS, which will also partly be used for a new health centre.
Planning permission was approved for the new health centre in January, providing a new home for existing GP surgeries. The plans also include consulting rooms
and offices. The progress was welcomed by councillors on the scrutiny commission on Wednesday, July 9.
Matthew Riddle (Con, Severn Vale) said: “This is very good news. It’s good to see the old hospital knocked down because it was built in about 1930 and we’re building something brand new with all the energy conservation and heat conservation things in place. It’s good to see the site carrying on caring, but in a very modern way.”
Council bosses hope that the new site will cut costs, both on expensive care homes and by freeing up social housing for people currently living in temporary accommodation. Social care and temporary housing are eating up huge amounts of money in council budgets across the country, leaving less left over for other services.
By Alex Seabrook, Local Democracy Reporting Service
Chair quits
A COUNCILLOR has quit as the chair of Avon Fire Authority after a report found he breached the organisation's code of conduct in his behaviour towards female employees.
Ben Nutland has also been suspended from the Liberal Democrat group on South Gloucestershire Council, where he represents the Yate North ward, and is currently described as 'independent/other' on the council's website.
A report found he called one colleague “stunning”, followed her into a hotel room then took off his shoes and jacket before getting onto her bed, “unwanted behaviour” which made her uncomfortable.
Cllr Nutland was at a conference when he tried to get a second female member of staff to dance with him, “despite being clearly told she did not want to dance”, the report found.
Defending his behaviour, the former Yate Mayor claimed that his drink had been spiked so he was “not responsible for his actions”.
n LOCAL MP for Thornbury & Yate A year of service to you
SINCE I last wrote for the Voice, I have marked one year since I was elected to serve as your Member of Parliament.
So much has happened in the last year, but throughout it I have always felt the real honour and privilege to be able to speak up for you and be your local champion in Westminster.
The reality of life as an MP certainly came at me fast. Just hours after leaving the count in the early hours of the morning, I was in an urgent meeting with Beko to discuss the closure of its Yate factory and how we support the workers affected.
The pace hasn’t really slowed since. I’ve spoken over 100 times in Parliament – a total that includes three Prime Minister’s Questions.
I was delighted to secure the money promised for Thornbury Health Centre at a time when the new Government has scrapped so many NHS building projects.
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Claire Young MP writes for Thornbury Voice
asks a question to the Prime Minister
I also got a commitment to fund the design of additional flood defences near Severn Beach.
In my short time as an MP, I’ve continued to fight for more money for South Gloucestershire schools and for better provision for children with Special Educational Needs. I’ve been
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+ Wills, Trusts and Probate
making the case for investing in clean energy projects in our area – and making sure local people can benefit from the jobs that come with them.
I’ve been able to raise more specific local issues directly with ministers, such as the ongoing
saga of the Badminton Road bridge over the M4 and the closure of the original Severn Bridge to HGVs.
Being able to spend time out and about locally is just as important for me.
I have met so many wonderful people and organisations who do great work, day in, day out.
Ours is a big and varied constituency, and I do my best to get around every corner.
I have a great team in place that help me support you. In the last year we have had over 8,000 pieces of individual casework.
We have also held around 40 advice surgeries right across our towns and villages, where people can discuss their problems with me face-to-face.
As we look to the future, I promise to keep being the strong, local voice our communities deserve and to do all I can to ensure your voices are heard in the corridors of power.
Claire Young
Head teacher Lee Dunn and MP Claire Young with Olveston pupils
School's shining example
A VILLAGE primary school has become the first to be given a new award for promoting health in education.
Olveston C of E Primary School has achieved 'beacon setting status' in the Health and Promotion in Education programme, run by South Gloucestershire Council.
The award recognises the school’s commitment to nurturing the health, well-being, and holistic development of its pupils.
Thornbury & Yate MP Claire Young visited the school to find out more about its work to achieve the award, as well as its work to achieve the Healthy Roots Award, the Mental Health and Wellbeing Award, the Music Mark, the Woodland Trust Gold Award, and the Modeshift Stars Sustainable Travel Accreditation.
Fly-tipper dumped fridges in lane
A MAN who dumped carpets, tyres, a fridge and fridge freezer at the side of a country lane has been ordered to do unpaid work and pay almost £1,200 in costs.
South Gloucestershire Council prosecuted Robin Callaby, of Chepstow, for fly-tipping and transporting waste without the correct documentation after he was caught on CCTV dumping the contents of a tipper truck in a gateway on Tockington Lane, Tockington, in August last year.
Callaby admitted the two offences and was sentenced to 80 hours' community service and told to pay £1,192 costs to the council at Bristol Magistrates Court at the end of June.
The council’s environmental enforcement team investigated the offence after being sent a CCTV video showing the offence.
Callaby was traced, admitted he was the man in the footage and had fly-tipped the waste. He also admitted using his vehicle to transport waste without a Registered Waste Carriers Licence.
Council cabinet member for environmental enforcement Sean Rhodes said: "We will not tolerate illegal waste activity, and anyone found failing in their duty of care for waste disposal in South Gloucestershire will be brought before the courts. There is never an excuse for illegally dumping waste and damaging the environment.
“Our advice is to be wary of businesses or people advertising waste clearances on social media sites such as Facebook. There are a number of legitimate options for waste removal, including the council’s large household waste collection service. If you hire a thirdparty to dispose of your waste, always ask for a copy of the company’s waste carrier registration certificate and ask where the waste is being taken."
Anyone who sees illegal fly-tipping is being encouraged to report it by contacting the council’s StreetCare helpdesk on 01454 868000, emailing streetcare@southglos.gov.uk or visiting www.southglos. gov.uk/flytipping.
n WHAT'S ON
July 23-August 3
n THORNBURY ART CLUB 60TH ANNUAL SUMMER EXHIBITION, Thornbury Methodist Church Hall (door off Castle Court). Monday to Saturday 10am-6pm, Sunday 2-4pm. Many artworks for sale. More details from www.thornburyartclub.co.uk.
August 21
n KRUNCH SUMMER FEST AND THE SKATE COMPETITION at Thornbury Skate Park, 2-8pm. Inflatables, climbing tower, graffiti workshop, tattoos, carnival face paint, circus activities, music festival and more. Free to enter - small charge for some of activities and skate comp entry. More details at tinyurl.com/3j7vheay.
REGULAR EVENTS
Monday
n SEVERN VALE FLOWER CLUB meets on the second Monday in the month at 2pm in St Mary's Hall in Eastbury Close, Thornbury, for classes, demonstrations and competitions. For more information contact Sally on ssjjtaylor@hotmail. co.uk or Hazel on 01454 885213.
Tuesday
n CITIZENS ADVICE South
Gloucestershire sessions at Thornbury Town Hall Tuesday 10amnoon. No appointment needed.
n JUST SEW IT SEWING CLUB, every Tuesday 6.30-9.30pm at the Chantry Community and Arts Centre Castle Street, Thornbury. Come along and sew with others bring your sewing machine & materials/ pattern. Call Carrie 07753 236095.
n THORNBURY MEMORY CAFE is open on the second and fourth Tuesday of each month (except August) from 10.15-11.45am. Methodist Church Hall, High Street, Thornbury. More information from Sue Rowley on 01454 412941 or Louise Wright on 07800 776998.
n THORNBURY ART CLUB
Painting Studio Group meets at St Mary’s Church Hall, Eastbury Road, every Tuesday 1.30-4.30pm. Also Thursday Painting Studio Group at same time and place on Thursdays. Call 01454 414433 or 0777 627 1010 for more details.
n SUNBEAMS TODDLER GROUP, 1.30-3pm every Tuesday in term time, Thornbury Methodist Church Hall (off Castle Court). All families welcome, no need to book, £2 per family includes snack and drink.
n THORNBURY TOWN BAND
Friendly community brass band, rehearsals at Thornbury URC Tuesday evening's 7.30pm-9.30pm. New players very welcome. www.thornburytownband.com. email: info@ thornburytownband.co.uk. Turn up or call Anna for more information on 07960008843
n CIRCLE DANCING, Thornbury Methodist Church Hall, Castle Court, 6.30-8.30pm, first three Tuesdays of the month. No partner required. Newcomers always welcome - please contact Vicki in advance on 07516 999384 or vickislade1@outlook.com.
Wednesday
n THORNBURY ROYAL BRITISH LEGION, Coffee and Chat, second Wednesday of the month, The Swan, Thornbury High Street, 1011.30am. All welcome
n MEDITATION FOR ALL in the Lancaster Room, The Chantry, Castle Street, Thornbury, 7-8pm. Tea and chat afterwards, all welcome. Details from Dave on 07952 875526 or www.meditationinbristol.org
Thursday
n THORNBURY GOOD AFTERNOON CHOIR, Thornbury URC, Chapel Street, 1-3pm. For info visit
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www.goodafternoonchoir.org, email gac@grenvillemusic.co.uk or call 01761 472468.
n OVER-60S BADMINTON at Thornbury Leisure Centre, 10amnoon, turn up and play. also on Wednesdays at same time and place. More details from 0300 333 0300 or visit activecentres.org.
Friday
n HAVEN MEMORY CAFE, Thornbury United Reformed Church, Chapel Street, first and third Fridays of the month from 10.15-11.45am. More details from Stuart Hill on 07913 241437 or Sue Walton 07794 370903.
Saturday
n THORNBURY PARKRUN, 9am, Mundy Playing Fields. Free.
n THORNBURY ROYAL BRITISH LEGION VETERANS Breakfast, second Saturday of the month, 9am at The Swan, Thornbury High Street. All welcome.
Sunday
n THORNBURY ROYAL BRITISH LEGION branch meeting, last Sunday of the month at the Wheatsheaf pub, Chapel Street, 12.30pm. All welcome.
THORNBURY Library is hosting the Story Garden summer reading challenge throughout the school holidays.
Children’s craft activities include Story Gardeners on August 13 from 10.30am-noon and
Junk Box Challenge on August 20 at the same time. Both are free drop-in sessions.
People can enjoy a free hot drink in the library from 10.30am-4pm on Mondays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays.
People can use the computers or WiFi with their own iPad or phone, read a book, a newspaper, browse the shelves, enjoy a communal puzzle or just relax.
Lego club meets every Saturday from 9.30-10.30am – no booking required. Create a Lego masterpiece and display it in the library for family and friends to see.
Rhymetime takes place every Monday and Friday, from 9.30-10am - library opens early for this event, for families only.
Book group Have You Read…? meets on August 1 from 2pm-3pm: a book group for everyone with no set novel to read, just an hour of chat and refreshments.
A computer volunteer is ready to help with IT and online questions on Thursday mornings, with one-to-one sessions available from 10am.
The library is staffed from 10am-5pm on Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday, and from 9.30am-12.30pm on Saturday.
Open access, for registered users, is from 8am-7.30pm every day.
For bookings and home library service call 01454 868006, email thornbury.library@southglos.gov.uk or visit the website www.southglos.gov.uk/libraries.
n NEWS
AS the nation prepares to mark the 80th anniversary of the end of the Second World War on VJ Day, the Voice met a South Gloucestershire veteran of the campaign in Burma, where fighting continued after the guns fell silent in Europe.
COMMUNITIES around the country held events earlier this year to commemorate 80 years since VE Day.
The date - May 8 1945 - is seared into the national memory as the day when a nation marked the final victory over Germany's Nazi regime.
But the Second World War didn't end then. Furious fighting continued for more than three months in Burma, China and across the Far East and Pacific until the dropping of American atomic bombs on Hiroshima and Nagasaki forced the retreating Japanese empire to surrender.
Celebrated joyously then - but perhaps less well remembered now - August 15 was declared Victory over Japan or VJ Day, marking the final end of the Second World War.
Harry Francis fought in Burma - and does not have fond memories.
Not only was fighting in the jungle "hell", the last of his many encounters with Japanese forces left him close to death, after being stabbed in the stomach with a bayonet.
Harry, who has just turned 100, now lives in Soundwell, near Kingswood, with his wife Gwen. Before the war he lived in the village of Barford St Martin, near Salisbury.
Frustrated at seeing colleagues at the bus depot where he worked being given deferments when they received call-up papers, Harry lied about his age to volunteer in 1942, joining the Royal Navy when he was still 16.
He joked: "I've been a fool all my life!"
After training at HMS Raleigh in Torpoint, Cornwall, he joined the crew of destroyer HMS
VJ Day - a veteran remembers
Brecon, based in Liverpool.
HMS Brecon hunted U-boats and escorted convoys in the Atlantic, before being deployed to Malta in the Mediterranean.
At this point Harry volunteered for the Royal Marines, as he wanted a more 'hands on' role in the war. He went through an unforgiving training programme at the renowned Achnacarry Commando Training Depot in the Scottish Highlands.
One of the first recruits in 1943 to what would become known as the Special Boat Service (SBS), Harry fought in Sicily and Italy during the Allied invasion and took part in raids on Lebanon, which was run by the Vichy France government.
He was also sent on a mission to German-occupied Yugoslavia as a bodyguard for commando officer and MP Fitzroy Maclean, who had been sent as an envoy by Winston Churchill to meet partisan leader Tito.
During the visit Tito - later Yugoslavia's presidentpresented Harry with a medal, from a bunch that he kept in his pocket to present to soldiers.
Harry no longer has the medal but it is believed to have been the Yugoslavian equivalent of the Military Medal.
Soon afterwards Harry and his comrades were given new orders to go to the Far East.
He said: "A few miles from Rome we got pulled back.
"We were told 'you made such a good job of this one, you'll make an even better one over there'."
Harry and his comrades in No. 2 SBS sailed to Ceylon - now Sri Lanka - and from there were sent to the Andaman Islands, between India and Burma, for their first experience of fighting the Japanese.
Harry's unit then went to Burma, operating as part of South-East Asia Command's Small Operations Group, and he admits being "frightened to death".
Fighting in the jungle, often at close quarters, and shooting snipers down from the trees, Harry says the enemy soldiers were "crafty" and refused to
Francis
surrender.
He said: "It was either you or them.
"We had a bloody hard time out there.
"It was bad enough fighting the enemy but when you've got to fight the jungle as well, it's hellit was a bloody horrible place."
Harry and his comrades would swim up on paddle boards to carry out reconnaissance on Japanese units.
Operating around the Irrawaddy river, they carried out lightning raids, going in and "getting out quick".
Harry said: "I was a mad sod, who went in all guns blazing. We'd do whatever we had to and get out."
Harry completed six missions, often returning and having a day to "get cleaned up and be off out again".
On his seventh reconnaissance mission Harry's group was ambushed. Two of his comrades were "shot to pieces" and, as Harry ran to help, he had "the biggest bayonet I’d ever seen" thrust into his stomach.
His best friend Slim Fenton killed the Japanese soldier who stabbed him. After their attackers were wiped out he was carried back to an outpost, "bleeding like a stuck pig".
Harry said: "I remember laughing, and them saying 'you should be crying'. I said, 'I'm laughing cos I shan't be back
Harry in his Royal Navy uniform after volunteering in 1942. No pictures survive from his time in the SBS.
here again!'"
He lost consciousness and the next thing he remembers is "waking up in a nice bed with white sheets" in Ceylon.
Transferred to the UK, Harry was treated at Haslar hospital in Gosport for peritonitis, a potentially-fatal infection caused by the wound, then sent to recuperate at Netley camp in Hampshire.
He was in the UK on VJ Day, when the war finally ended on August 15, 1945.
Once he was back on his feet Harry helped to train others until he was demobbed about a year after the war.
He worked as a labourer then a painter and decorator until he retired. He moved to Bristol around 40 years ago.
Harry stayed in touch with some of his comrades, sometimes meeting up for a drink, but almost all of them have now passed away.
Even at the end of the war, Harry says "no-one wanted to know" about the conflict in the Far East, and few people have any idea about it now.
He said: "They don't know what we went through. They say 'we will remember them' but noone ever bloody does!
"People should remember. But don't say that I'm a hero, because I'm not - I'm just one of the boys."
Harry
at his 100th birthday party in July
n
ARTS
Thornbury Arts Festival reveals line-up
ORGANISERS of Thornbury Arts Festival have revealed details of a programme of music, comedy and drama running over two weekends.
The event will open with an evening of Parisian-flavoured jazz and gypsy swing, courtesy of the allstring jazz quartet Swing from Paris.
The musicians are inspired by the music of the 1930s, 40s and 50s - delighting audiences for more than 15 years at events from festivals to the BBC’s Hairy Bikers show and the opening of the M5 Gloucester Services.
They head to Thornbury on Friday, September 26, performing in Christ the King Church Hall.
The same venue will be used the following night by Badapple Theatre for its production of Crumbs, which follows the life and times of an ex-TV baking show host who claims she was moved on for “being too old for television”.
Trying to re-style herself in the fast-paced and cut-throat world of influencers and social media millionaires, the production follows her slips and trips in setting up her new channel launch as she tries to keep the lights - and the oven - on in the face of almost certain doom.
Comedian James Dowdeswell, who grew up in the Anchor pub in Oldbury-on-Severn,
Get muddy for JIGSAW
FITNESS fanatics are looking for 10 volunteers to take on a challenge to help a Thornbury charity.
Elite Fitness has set up a team to take on the Tough Mudder assault course on August 16, traversing 20 obstacles over 15km.
The team will be fundraising for JIGSAW Thornbury, which supports children and young people with additional needs or disabilities, and their families, and has seen a 78% increase
won the Jongleurs New Act of the Year Award in 2000, and appears in Christ the King Church Hall on October 3.
He headlines comedy clubs around the UK and has also appeared on numerous TV shows.
The festival will also welcome back Lesley Smith, who is known for her entertaining and informative costumed portrayals of historical characters - this time appearing as Nell Gwynne, mistress of Charles II.
While some believe that was all Nell was known for, other than for selling oranges, she was a victory for English womanhood, showing great courage and, against all the odds, becoming a star of the London stage.
Lesley will be joined by her husband, Dr Gareth Williams, in the role of Charles II on Saturday, October 4, in St Mary’s Church. All evening shows start at 7.30pm.
The programme will also feature a twohour town walk on September 28 led by local historian Meg Wise, who will reflect on times when many products were made and sold in Thornbury.
The 10am tour, called Strike While the Iron is Hot, will show where goods were manufactured, from brickworks and forges to mills, with a pinch of gunpowder thrown in for good measure!
Visit www.thornburyartsfestival.org.uk after August 1 for full details of events and tickets.
Lynne Hutchinson
St Mary's Music
St MARY'S Church will hold an autumn festival, called A Week of Flowers and Music.
it starts on September 14 with a "Come and Sing" event in the church which, called 'A Day's Song: From Matins to Vespers'.
Registration is at 11.30am, followed by rehearsals and an informal concert at 6pm.
Bring your own lunch, but refreshments will be available during the afternoon.
Flower displays will be open for viewing on Tuesday to Thursday from 10am-6pm, Friday from 10am until lunchtime, Saturday from 10am-6pm and on Sunday from the service at 10.30am until 5pm.
in the number of local people accessing their services over the last two years.
Last year, the Elite Fitness team raised over £1,000, enough to fund two terms of one of the 18 services that the charity runs.
All volunteers must be aged 14 or older and those aged 14-17 must be accompanied by an adult over the age of 18.
A spokesperson said: "The event is an opportunity to do something amazing in your community by raising sponsorship from friends, family, and colleagues.
"The Elite Fitness Team will help you get motivated to achieve your fitness goals and push yourself further than you have before."
On September 19 there will be a concert by the internationally renowned ensemble the Gesualdo Six, directed by Owain Park, a Bristolian who started his musical career as a chorister at the city's St Mary Redcliffe Church. They have toured extensively throughout the world, receiving acclaim for their imaginative programming and impeccable blend We look forward to a musical treat!
Tickets cost £17 for adults and £5 for under 18s, including refreshments and are available online at ticketsource.co.uk/stmarysmusic.
We look forward to seeing you at these even ts.
Action Arts Group
Angela Hughes
ACTION Arts Group will present a concert by Risca Male Choir at Christ the King Church in Thornbury during September.
Founded in 1970, the choir has established an enviable reputation with its diverse performance styles and trendsetting programmes.
Competition successes have included gaining the Male Choir of the Year award, winning the Welsh Choral challenge shield, the National Eisteddfod, the bronze medal from the Malta International Choral Competition and being Male Choir winners of the International Choir Festival of Jersey.
They have travelled extensively to perform in Europe and the USA.
Besides presenting many pieces by contemporary Welsh composers including Beowulf and Grendel, composers Verdi and Beethoven have featured in their repertoire.
The concert also features soloist Aaron Holmes, accompanied by Nigel Davies.
This performance takes place on September 20 at 7.30pm.
Tickets cost £15, from AAGThornbury@gmail. com or 01454 850933.
Drinks will be available and funds raised will go to the local foodbank.
For more information on the choir visit www.riscamalechoir.co.uk.
Jane Parfitt
People who want to take part will get discounted entry to the event.
The Elite Fitness Tough Mudder team raised £1,000 last year
You can sign up to join the team on the Elite Fitness website at tinyurl.com/5ckur36z. Donations to the ‘Elite Fitness Tough Mudder 2025’ JustGiving page can be made at tinyurl. com/2ttv4muz.
Comedian James Dowdeswell
Lesley Smith as Nell Gwynne
n COMMUNITY NEWS
Thornbury over-60s tea room
THIS year's AGM confirmed that the Over 60s Tea Room in the Town Hall is continuing to thrive and host very successful events.
The committee is now planning yet more fun. The year ahead will bring more fish and chip lunches, entertainers and Christmas activities.
Our success means we can continue to pay back our customers by holding free or subsidised events.
We will also be holding a random free drinks day once every month.
The Tea Room tries to welcome everyone over 60 and encourage them to share with us. In this spirit we are planning a 'bring and share' lunch.
We’re also offering a free drink to any customer who brings in a new friend to join us at any time - the friend will also get their first drink free.
The Tea Room is open from 10am to 3pm, Monday to Friday.
Our customers are not only friendly, they are generous too: in July we raised £220 for St Peter’s Hospice with delicious cream teas.
On September 26 we will be raising money for Macmillan Cancer Support by joining in their coffee morning. Please come and support this charity, which has provided help to so many at a time when it is much needed.
Sandra Doig
Thornbury WI
The visit to the air raid shelter in Bristol city centre
WE had a great trip out in July.
We took the bus to Bristol, walked up Corn Street and had lunch at the Cosy Club, which was delicious.
We had booked a tour of the air raid shelter under St Nicholas Market.
The tour and the young man who guided us round were brilliant.
We saw where hundreds of people crammed in away from the bombings, and there was lots of memorabilia from the Second World War.
We were shown photos of buildings like the Dutch House, which was destroyed in November 1940.
FEEL AT HOME WITH EXCEPTIONAL CARE
It was a great day out, which I can highly recommend.
Gill Blackborough
Krunch Summer Fest
ON August 21 Krunch will once again be running Summer Fest and the Skate Comp at Thornbury Skate Park.
Activities will include inflatables, a climbing tower, graffiti workshop, tattoos, carnival face paint, circus activities, bushcraft, well-being tent, music, and a variety of local craft and food stalls.
There will also be a skate competition hosted by King Ramps, including pro rider demonstrations, cash prizes and workshops.
The event is free to enter but there will be a small charge for some of the activities and to participate in the skate comp.
We are delighted to be bringing this event to the community for the third year.
Each year we have had over 500 people, and with many local contributors taking part as well, it is a highlight in the summer that brings the community together.
This year we are adding a Music Fest in the evening from 6-8pm, featuring local bands and artists. Everyone is welcome!
For more details visit tinyurl.com/3j7vheay
Penny Baker Krunch South West
Town aiming to build on best-ever finish
Most of last season’s squad have remained loyal to the Thorns and, with the return of last season’s leading scorer Callum Chalmers from Larkhall Athletic and the addition of a couple of new faces, hopes are high.
This will be the first time the two sides have ever met, and Town officials are hoping for a good attendance.
Bristol-based The Window Hub progresses on green goals
Bristol-based home improvement company, The Window Hub, is aiming to plant 3,000 trees over the next three years as part of its commitment to being a climate conscious business.
The trees will be planted at Boyd Valley Lake, which is located in Bitton. This is in addition to continuing its policy of recycling all old frames so they don’t end up in landfill.
WHILE it seems just a matter of weeks since the football season finished, preparations for the new season are well under way for Thornbury Town.
The window installation company was launched during lockdown in 2020 by seasoned industry professional Danny, who wanted to create a business that was “built on quality rather than greed”.
Having finished last season in their highest ever league position, all at the club are looking to maintain and hopefully improve on that performance as they approach their fifth season at Hellenic League Premier Division level.
From humble beginnings, The Window Hub now operates from a head office and showroom in Staple Hill in Bristol with offices, showrooms and installation depots across the South West.
First team manager Richard Joyce has been pleased with the way preparations for the new season have been going.
Pre-season friendlies have seen mixed results, with draws at neighbours Tytherington and at home to Mendip Boardwalk.
The visit from National League South side Westonsuper-Mare saw the big difference in league status count, as the Seasiders secured a 4-1 win in front of almost 400 spectators.
A trip to Bishops Cleeve also saw Thorns suffer a heavy defeat, going down 3-0, but Town’s management have been generally pleased with the way preparations have gone.
In fact, a new showroom is scheduled to open this month.
In the FA Vase Thornbury make the short trip to play Shirehampton in the First Qualifying Round on August 23.
The opening League fixtures will be a tough test, starting on July 29 when Royal Wootton Bassett visit the Mundy Fields from 7.45pm.
This is followed by a trip to Worcester Raiders on the 5th; newly-promoted Droitwich Spa come to Thornbury on the 9th.
Fixtures for the Club’s other senior sides are awaited. The U18s know they face a trip to Taunton Town in the FA Youth Cup.
you know what? It is so easy to be amazing if you don’t cut corners.”
Vets and Ladies also start at the beginning of September.
Danny launched The Window Hub because he wanted to be much more than just a double glazing company.
“We know that choosing new windows and inviting someone
The FA Cup and FA Vase draws have been made, with Thorns having been drawn at home to Surrey side Virginia Water, of the Combined Counties League, in the Extra Preliminary Round of the FA Cup on August 2.
The Reserves start their second season in the Premier Division of the Bristol Premier Combination in September under a new manager.
into your home can be stressful, so we have introduced as many initiatives as possible to be fair and reasonable in our approach to give our customers the best experience possible,” he said.
Simon Evans has stepped down after several successful seasons in charge: the Reserves, like the first team, are playing at their highest ever level.
“Sales begin and end with treating customers properly. And
Fixtures for the A team, U18s,
01626 932 964
And the Window Hub has the customer reviews to prove it –90% of reviews for The Window Hub on Trustpilot are for five stars, with customers celebrating the company’s professionalism, friendliness, tidiness, and attention to detail.
Regular visitors to the Mundys might want to consider buying a season ticket for the new season, which includes entry to all 19 home league fixtures and is a significant saving on the gate price.
The hard work of Danny and his company was also recently recognised and commended, with The Window Hub being named the ‘Best in the South West’ at the G24 Awards last year.
The club is also on the lookout for matchday helpers to assist with the many tasks associated with staging a game at the Mundys.
In 2025, The Window Hub will grow to cover domestic homes between Cheltenham in Gloucestershire and Lands End in Cornwall.
For more information, please visit TheWindowHub.co.uk.
If you enjoy your football and would like to help out at a friendly club, come down to a game and make yourself known to any of the club committee members, or contact club chairman Jake Shutler on 07713 750816.
Malcolm Carr
thornburyvoice
New coaching team for Thorns
PREPARATION is underway for the new season at Thornbury Rugby Club.
Players began their preseason training under a new coaching team, headed by former Bristol Bears player Mitch Eadie and including the highlyrespected Callum Pitt.
The side will be led by captain James Wood, who proved to be an inspirational leader last time out in the most difficult of seasons.
He will be looking for an improved season, which begins with three friendlies in August – home to Lichfield on the 16th followed by a match with Old Bristolians the following Thursday before concluding with a trip over “The Bridge” to take on Welsh club Brynamman on the 30th.
Jon Ford has returned as team manager, and there is considerable enthusiasm and excitement amongst the playing group.
League rugby starts on
September 6 with a difficult match at Keynsham.
The league includes Cheltenham and Cleve for the first time in a few seasons, whilst Thorns will also face new opponents in Newbury Blues, a former National League 1 semi-
Summer hockey
THE summer hockey league season has now ended with Thornbury ladies' and men's sides enjoying competitive games in a more relaxed environment.
The club used the matches to develop the skills of the several young players.
The men’s team had a deserved 2-1 victory over a Red Maids parents' XI that included a number of experienced players from top local clubs.
There were several other entertaining games and much experience was gained by the youngsters, with Sam Amos, Paul Stott and Martyn Hopkins providing some senior assistance.
The ladies played all their games at Bradley Stoke School and didn’t let their heads drop against more experienced teams, despite not having a keeper in some games.
There will be a short break before training begins for the new season.
The club, who play their matches at Castle School, always welcomes new players.
As well as two ladies' teams, a men’s side and mixed team, it is hoped to start a walking hockey team soon, and there is a thriving junior section.
Training sessions on Monday evenings start in September, after the new astro pitch is completed, with juniors from 6-7pm and seniors from 7-8.30pm.
For more information email thornburyhockey@gmail.com or visit the website thornburyhockeyclub.weebly.com. David Parry-Jones
professional club.
The Second XV are once again led by Harry Woolf, and they start their league season in early October but will be looking for some friendlies in September.
The Women have a friendly against currently unknown
opposition on August 16, before beginning their league campaign in mid-September at Hereford club Greyhound.
Laura Panting continues as captain and will look to consolidate and bring on several recently-joined players who are new to the sport.
Stuart Adams is getting together a social/veterans team and there are hopes there will be regular matches throughout the season.
A revamped committee under new chairman Jon Day will look to increase involvement in local businesses and community activities to the benefit of all.
Thornbury are continuing to look to recruit at a senior and junior level.
Anyone looking for senior rugby for men and women, good social activities and fun for adults and juniors should get in touch –the rugby club website is www. thornburyrfc.co.uk.
Dave Fox
Coach Callum Pitt working with Thornbury RFC players.
