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August, 2017 Issue 5

Thornbury Self Storage

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Keep on running: Thornbury couple in their 70s ready for half marathon A ROOKIE runner and her husband - both in their late 70s - will soon be lining up to take part in the Bristol Half Marathon. Meg and John Moseley, of Thornbury, have secured places in the event in September and will run to raise money for a charity that helps fight poverty and hunger around the world. Although John has previously run the London Marathon and completed a number of half marathons, running and jogging were new to Meg until a visit to a cold part of the United States only last November changed her mind. Claims that she could never run were put aside when she started jogging to keep warm in Nebraska during a visit to see her son. Now the couple, with a combined age of 156, hope to raise plenty of money for the charity Tearfund by completing the half marathon in support of its relief and development work in Africa. Full story page 5

Sniff the leather

“We will improve rapidly” Marlwood School's pledge after Ofsted criticism PAGE 2

More affordable homes pledged Housing association signs two new deals PAGE 4

Car seat checks find faults Police stop cars in Thornbury PAGE 20

Thornbees make history Rockhampton’s Guy Brothwood batting against Aston Rowant. More sport, page 28

Thornbury ladies rugby team take to the field PAGE 30

thornburyvoice

August, 2017

n EDUCATION

Marlwood School leaders confident of rapid improvements after inadequate rating LEADERS at Marlwood School have said they are confident it will “improve rapidly” in the coming months after being placed in special measures. Education watchdog Ofsted judged the school in Alveston to be inadequate after a recent inspection and referred to “a culture of of complacency and low expectations”. It said: “This school requires special measures because it is failing to give its pupils an acceptable standard of education. “The persons responsible for leading, managing or governing the school are not demonstrating the capacity to secure the necessary improvement in the school.” Marlwood has been part of the Castle School Education Trust (CSET) since November

2014 and its chief executive William Roberts, jointly with Marlwood headteacher James Pope, told parents in a letter: “It will clearly be extremely disappointing for the whole school community that Ofsted has judged Marlwood to be inadequate and to require special measures. “The experience of other schools has shown that a special measures judgement can help to accelerate progress. “Therefore, whilst this will be a difficult time for Marlwood School, we are confident that the school will improve rapidly over the coming months.” The Ofsted team, led by inspector David New, said the school’s decline had been characterised by low expectations at all levels. Pupils, especially the most

able, did not make expected progress across a range of subjects and disadvantaged students made much less progress than others nationally. Students’ attendance was below average, governance was ineffective and teaching, learning and assessment were inadequate, with too many parents dissatisfied with the school’s work . However, pupils made better progress in maths and attained in line with the national average. Ofsted also said: “The chief executive of the trust has acted to support improvements in the curriculum, assessment and behaviour management since his appointment in September 2016.” Mr Roberts and Mr Pope said the school had undertaken substantial restructuring in

recent years in order to save £2.3 million after a 40 per cent funding cut. More than 50 staff had left during that period and fundamental changes had been made to the school’s curriculum, culture and ethos. Their letter said: “Some of you will not recognise what is described in the inspection report. Many students’ daily experiences are positive and many parents/carers have given positive feedback about the school and the impact of recent improvements.” Mr Pope said in an end-of term letter: “I would like to thank parents and the wider community members for the kind words of support and encouragement following the publication of the report.”

Ofsted inspector criticises Sheiling School parents for taking children welcomes Ofsted inspectors’ rating on term time holidays AN education inspector said too many parents were still taking their children out of their village school for family holidays in term time. Iain Freeland, who carried out a short inspection of Oldbury-on-Severn Primary School for Ofsted, maintained its overall rating of good. Mr Freeland said at the time of the last full inspection in 2012, attendance was well below the national average and the school had actively challenged parents to improve their child’s attendance. He said: “As a result, attendance has improved and is now broadly in line with the national levels. However, too many parents still take their child on family holidays during term time. Governors have not given sufficient attention to overcoming this.” The inspector said the

leadership team, led by headteacher Deborah Dix, had maintained the good quality of eduction at the school. A new curriculum had been introduced, which was raising expectations of pupils and staff, and standards were improving. There had also been higher levels of pupils joining the school during key stage two and they had been assessed swiftly to ensure they made good progress. Mr Freeland said: “Pupils arrive at school with a bounce in their step. All were keen to speak with me to tell me about the aspects of school that they particularly enjoy.” He said improving writing was an ongoing priority and while there had been improvements, Ms Dix was keen to continue to raise standards, with the emphasis this year on improving pupils’ spelling and punctuation.

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THE Sheiling special school has maintained its rating from Ofsted inspectors, who have judged it to be good. Pupils with moderate and severe learning difficulties attend the independent, co-educational school in Thornbury, having been placed there by their local authority. Ofsted said headteacher Paul Gawdan led the school with “clear vision and determination” and had brought about significant improvements in a short period of time. It’s report said: “The quality of teaching, learning and assessment are rapidly improving. Teachers know their pupils well and plan learning to meet their individual needs. “In most parts of the curriculum, pupils make good progress. This is particularly the case in mathematics but less so in pupils’ reading. “Behaviour is good. As a result of higher-quality teaching and learning, the number of incidents of poor behaviour have fallen dramatically. “The 16-to-19 study programmes provide students with academic study, independent living skills and work experience. Consequently, students are successful in the next stage of their education or employment. “However, there is still room for pupils to achieve more highly, particularly in reading.” The school said: “We are immensely proud of this achievement and would like to thank all staff, pupils and governors for their hard work and commitment. “We will continue to build upon our efforts to further improve the school with the ultimate goal of moving from a good rating to outstanding.”

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thornburyvoice

August, 2017

n NEWS

Fears raised by parish leaders about extra traffic from Thornbury housing sites on their roads PARISH leaders in Falfield have raised concerns about the knockon effects of continuing house building in Thornbury on their roads. They have formally objected to the latest plan for up to 370 houses on farmland south of Gloucester Road - the B4061 that passes into Falfield parish at its eastern end. In its submission to South Gloucestershire planners, Falfield Parish Council said it was “disappointed” not to have been formally notified about the outline application by Bovis Homes as it affected the road network going though its parish. It said traffic numbers using the B4061 to the A38 were increasing year on year, partly due to the demands of new

developments being built in the north of Thornbury and partly because of increasing traffic congestion at the traffic lights at Grovesend and Alveston. That level was set to increase further due to the approved housing commitments in Thornbury yet to be built, it said. The council said: “The B4061 Gloucester Road is a popular commuter route towards the A38 and M5 junction 14 for those already living in Thornbury and we cannot see why the future residents of this estate will behave any differently. “We are concerned that the knock-on impacts on the Gloucester Road/A38 junction, the A38 signalled junction in Falfield village and the M5 junction 14, have been vastly

underestimated. “We note the application proposes that a speed limit reduction on Gloucester Road is extended by 60 metres and this is welcomed. “However the impacts of the additional traffic loads caused by this development will extend far past this point. “The B4061 passes eastwards across the boundary into Falfield Parish, where a higher national speed limit of 60mph applies and the impact on our parishioners living further along the same road has been ignored. “There is no mention of a junction capacity assessment being carried out by the

applicant at the Gloucester Road/A38 junction, even though this junction will clearly be heavily affected by both construction traffic and development traffic. There is also no consideration of mitigation measures east of the site.” The council said claims that an exercise to look at the effect of the proposal on junction 14 of the M5 was not considered necessary had caused it “great concern” as the junction was already operating at or close to capacity and it still remained the closest point to reach the motorway network from the application site.

Library to close for two weeks THORNBURY’S library will be closed for a fortnight in August as part of preparations for the introduction of seven-day-a-week opening. A system called Open Access will start in the library - and eight others in South Gloucestershire - in October to allow registered card holders into the premises even when they are unstaffed. The extended hours offered will give people the chance to browse, borrow and renew books and other materials, or to use the space for studying. But extra security and computer equipment has to be installed ahead of the system being launched and the two-week closure at Thornbury will allow that work to be carried out. South Gloucestershire Council said users would still be able to access all online services while the library was shut and no-one would be fined if their book should have been due back during the closure period. Heather Goddard, the council’s cabinet member for communities said: “We are very pleased to be able to bring the benefits of extra opening during unstaffed hours in our libraries. “We anticipate many people will be able to use the library where they couldn’t in the past because of work or other commitments. It is great to get extra use out of these important buildings when they would otherwise be closed.” Thornbury library will close on Wednesday, August 9, and reopen on Wednesday, August 23.

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Local information South Gloucestershire Council www.southglos.gov.uk 01454 868009 Safer Stronger team sscg@southglos.gov.uk 01454 868009 Anti social behaviour team asbreporting@southglos.gov.uk 01454 868582 Streetcare/litter/vandalism etc streetcare@southglos.gov.uk

Environment/trading standards 01454 868001 Police www.avonandsomersetpolice.uk general enquiries: 101 Fire www.avonfire.gov.uk General enquiries: 0117 926 2061 NHS Health Call 111 Well Aware health & social care information www.wellaware.org.uk Tel: (freephone) 0808 808 5252

PUBLISHER’S NOTE: Thornbury Voice is independent. We cannot take responsibility for content or accuracy of adverts, and it is advertisers’ responsibility to conform to all relevant legislation. We cannot vouch for any services offered. Opinions are not necessarily those of the editor. Thornbury Voice is distributed each month to local residents. If for some reason you do not get a copy, please get in touch or collect one from local pick-up points. Feedback is welcomed, call Richard On 01454 800 120 or contact@thornburyvoice.co.uk

August, 2017

n NEWS

Deals agreed by housing society to build more affordable homes in Thornbury HOUSING association Merlin has completed two deals to build a total of 63 affordable homes on two of Thornbury’s development sites. The deals, completed in the space of a week with Linden Homes and Barratt Homes, will see the houses built as part of the Post Farm and Park Farm developments. Chipping Sodbury-based Merlin said the homes would be a mixture of social rent, affordable rent and shared ownership properties. Martyn Blackman, Merlin’s director of investment, said: “We increased the number of new homes we built last year by 66 per cent and we have exciting plans to continue this growth in future years. “This year we will be starting on site on a record number of homes and these new schemes in Thornbury will play an important part of increasing our homebuilding by a further 77 per

cent in the current year. “The expansion of our development programme is only possible due to our financial discipline, which is demonstrated by the posting of our strongest financial results for the fourth successive year. “This financial strength in challenging economic circumstances, which have seen rents cut by one per cent, is allowing us to step up our development programme. “We're already working with Barratt Homes and David Wilson Homes in Thornbury to bring 44 new affordable homes into the first phase of development at Park Farm. “In the last month another 21 of these homes have been completed, with new residents set to move in soon. We're aiming to accelerate our development programme so that we build 230 homes this year and increase this to 300 by 2019.”

Ride and Stride event to help raise funds for church repair grants PEOPLE in the Thornbury area are being encouraged to join in a fund raising event to help churches in need of repairs or improvements. The annual Ride and Stride day will support the Gloucestershire Historic Churches Trust, which offers grants to eligible churches of any Christian denomination across South Gloucestershire, north Bristol and Gloucestershire. Those enrolling for the event on Saturday, September 9, will be urged to seek sponsorship to ride, walk or drive between their local churches. All money raised will be split between the trust and the participants’ nominated churches. Last year’s Ride and Stride raised nearly £50,000 while the trust distributed £130,000 in grants. It is hoped as many churches as possible will be open on the day to welcome visitors.

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thornburyvoice

August, 2017

n NEWS

Rookie runner Meg, 77, to take on half marathon with 79-year-old husband

A THORNBURY couple with a combined age of 156 are in training for Bristol’s half marathon - less than a year after one of them took up running. Meg Moseley and husband John will be 77 and 79 respectively when the event takes place in September. But they have kept up a training regime, spurred on by hopes of raising money for the charity Tearfund. Meg always maintained she could never run but a visit to her son in chilly Nebraska, USA, last

November changed her mind. Although the days were bright and sunny, the temperatures were below freezing and she and John had to wrap up for their daily walk. Early in the visit, Meg was so cold that she suggested running a little to get warm, jogging for 30 yards or so at first before walking to get her breath back and then jogging another 30 yards. But as the days passed, she found she could run further before stopping for breath, eventually surprising John by

saying she would like to do a half marathon. John had previously done some running and inspired by watching his son complete the London Marathon in 2001, he took part himself in 2002 at the age of 63. Unwilling to lose fitness, he periodically entered half marathons until 2006, after which he stopped due to the development of a specific form of vertigo. As it is now not so much of a problem, he agreed to have a go again and support Meg, with part of their training involving completing the recent Oldbury Fun Run. John said: “We both have entries for the Bristol Half Marathon and will use our vision of achieving something special in order to raise money for Tearfund to help with its relief

and development work in Africa because we want to help fight poverty and hunger around the world” The couple are collecting sponsorship via 01454 417932 and through a Just Giving page at http://www.justgiving.com/ john-and-meg-s-bristol-halfmarathon Hair salon Bryant and Co on The Plain also has a sponsor form and a charity meal has been organised at Romy’s Kitchen restaurant on Wednesday, September 20 after the half marathon. Chef Romy Gill is a supportive neighbour of Meg and John and also a keen runner. The buffet meal will cost £15, of which £12.50 will be given to Tearfund. Contact the restaurant by email at eat@romyskitchen. co.uk or by calling 01454 416728.

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July, 2017 Issue 4

Thornbury Self Storage

COUNTRYSIDE campaigners have added their voice to opposition against the latest large-scale housing plan for Thornbury. The Campaign to Protect Rural England (CPRE) has submitted an objection to the plan by Bovis Homes to build up to 370 homes on the north side of the town oﬀ Gloucester Road. If the outline scheme is approved, it will extend housing out of the town towards the A38 across nearly 60 acres of agricultural land from Upper Morton to Crossways Lane at The Knapp. It will also add even more homes to the many hundreds already built recently or which have been granted planning permission. A large number of objections to the plan have been posted with South Gloucestershire Council, including from the residents action group TRAPP’D and the CPRE, as well as individual residents of the town. The CPRE said the Bovis site, alongside the B4061, had not been identiﬁed in the local core strategy. Full story page 3.

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Green light for homes on council office site Go ahead given for retirement complex on Castle Street PAGE 2

Big dig gets underway in Oldbury Work starts at Iron Age camp PAGE 5

Pieces fall into place for Jigsaw Charity moves into new Thornbury HQ PAGE 8

In the swing Having a blast: Firefighters in Thornbury sign up some young recruits. Find out more in our community news, Page 7.

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n NEWS

August, 2017

Alby’s a winner Bus passengers urged in house building to have their say on industry award scheme THE site manager at a Thornbury house building scheme has won through to the next round of an industry-wide competition. Alby Morris works at the Bloor Homes development at Thornbury Fields and was a winner in the first round of the annual National House Building Council (NHBC) Pride in the Job awards. This year saw more than 16,000 site managers compete across the UK to win one of 450 quality awards. Mr Morris will now join other regional finalists to compete for seal of excellence and regional winner titles. The winners will be announced later in the year. Each site manager is assessed in 37 areas of site management,

PEOPLE who travel by bus are being asked to get involved in a consultation on subsidised services so council leaders can ensure they are funding the routes that matter. South Gloucestershire Council supports services which are entirely funded by the authority, as well as commercial services that receive top-up payments to extend the route or to run in the evening or on bank holidays. It currently supports 32 bus services at a cost of £1.76 million and wants to know the travelling public’s priorities for public transport as it faces up to continued cuts in the funding it gets from the Government. The council said subsidies for bus services were due to be reviewed, with spending set to be reduced by £250,000 in 2019/20. The consultation runs until September 3 and anyone who wants to have their say should visit www.southglos.gov.uk/ consultation to complete a survey. Copies of the survey can also be collected from libraries or one-stop-shops.

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thornburyvoice

August, 2017

n COMMUNITY NEWS

4th Thornbury Brownies 4TH Thornbury Brownies have enjoyed another exciting month of activities. They have done more STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths) activities to complete their STEM challenge badge. This included setting off rockets, designing and making foil boats to hold the most marbles and making ice cream in a bag using ice combined with salt to freeze it. The brownies thoroughly enjoyed the activities and were surprised by some of the results. They have also been climbing at Woodhouse park, something new for some members of the unit and

enjoyed a Samba drumming workshop delivered by Jamma de Samba. In just over 1 hour the brownies mastered their part in the samba band and successfully played as a group. They were fantastic and all are very eager to do samba again. In 2017 Girlguiding celebrate 30 years of their youngest section (Rainbows who are girls age 5-7) Severnvale Division celebrated this milestone on 22nd June with a joint rainbow and brownie party at Cattle Country. 185 girls with 47 adult leaders and helpers descended on Cattle Country to enjoy all the facilities on offer and eat cake!

Thornbury Lions, the end of another year SUNDAY July 2nd saw the changeover of Presidents, which signals the start of another year for the Lions. Outgoing President John Poole handed over the reins to Shekar Bheenuck at a lunch at the Anchor Inn at Oldbury on Severn. John reported another very successful year with the

John Poole (L) handing over to Shekar Bheenuck (R) at the lunch

bookshop still the major source of funds to use for donations. A large number of groups and organisations, local and national benefited from our support with some of the more recent being the Red Cross with donations for the victims of the Manchester and London attacks, the Chantry in Thornbury with help towards a new stair lift and Jigsaw the children’s charity in Thornbury. The latest project for us was actually started by our Lions Young Ambassador Lizzie O’Brien who gave her bursary from winning the Lions District public speaking competition towards the purchase of defibrillators. Lizzie’s mother Elaine has set up courses for young people including members of Castle School sixth form to enable them to learn how to use the equipment. The Club members became traffic marshals for the Thornbury Carnival Parade.

Let us know your community news Thornbury Lions Club president John Poole presents a table football game for Thornbury Baptist Youth Club to youth pastor Mike Levy.

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thornburyvoice

n NEWS

August, 2017

Heavy load set to slow down traffic DRIVERS have been warned they could be held up near Thornbury when a large and slow moving load is on the road. National Grid will be transporting new transformers to the Iron Acton sub-station on Sunday, July 30, to replace old equipment at the site. A heavy haulage lorry will carry the transformers, which are needed to change the voltage of electricity before it is transmitted through the power network. The vehicle is due to set off from Avonmouth at 9am but due to the indirect route it will follow, won’t get to Iron Acton until between 3pm and 3.30pm. Measuring 187ft (57 metres) in length, the lorry will weigh in at 231 tonnes and due to its size

and weight will only be able to travel at between ten and 15mph.

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National Grid said a police escort and haulage team would accompany the lorry to ensure the safety of the public and its team. The police will also manage traffic and stop vehicles for a short time at certain places, such as when the lorry needs to straddle two road lanes, turn or travel along narrow roads. The route chosen avoids weak bridges, narrow turning

points and other hazards and after leaving Avonmouth on the M49, will go east along the M4 before joining the northbound M5. It will then continue to junction 13 at Stroudwater before returning on the southbound carriageway to junction 14 at Falfield, where it will join the B4059 and head up Tortworth Hill. The route then goes through Cromhall, Bagstone and Rangeworthy to Latteridge and its final destination. Paul Taunton, project engineer at National Grid, said the route had been planned with Allelys Heavy Haulage to keep disruption to a minimum. However, he said: “There are likely to be some delays on the Sunday morning on the motorway and on smaller, narrow roads close to the substation. “Our last delivery to the sub-station was successful with little disruption to roads in the area and we expect the same this time.”

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July, 2017 Issue 4

Thornbury Self Storage

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Campaign group joins opposition to proposed housing estate COUNTRYSIDE campaigners have added their voice to opposition against the latest large-scale housing plan for Thornbury. The Campaign to Protect Rural England (CPRE) has submitted an objection to the plan by Bovis Homes to build up to 370 homes on the north side of the town oﬀ Gloucester Road. If the outline scheme is approved, it will extend housing out of the town towards the A38 across nearly 60 acres of agricultural land from Upper Morton to Crossways Lane at The Knapp. It will also add even more homes to the many hundreds already built recently or which have been granted planning permission. A large number of objections to the plan have been posted with South Gloucestershire Council, including from the residents action group TRAPP’D and the CPRE, as well as individual residents of the town. The CPRE said the Bovis site, alongside the B4061, had not been identiﬁed in the local core strategy. Full story page 3.

Green light for homes on council office site Go ahead given for retirement complex on Castle Street PAGE 2

Big dig gets underway in Oldbury Work starts at Iron Age camp PAGE 5

Pieces fall into place for Jigsaw Charity moves into new Thornbury HQ PAGE 8

In the swing Having a blast: Firefighters in Thornbury sign up some young recruits. Find out more in our community news, Page 7.

Tennis club enjoys a good start to the season PAGE 30

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August, 2017

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n NEWS

Fo m op

Yate man selected for blind sailing championships

ANYO is inv Thorn Th last y mem W repea Thurs

A BLIND man from Yate has been selected for the Great Britain Blind Sailing team as they defend their world title in America. Mark Austen will helm one of four yachts representing Britain at the 2017 Blind Fleet Racing Open World Sailing Championships to be held at Sheboygan on Lake Michigan. Mark who has trained and sailed with the GB Blind Sailing team for two years, said: “When I started sailing with British Blind Sailing in 2015 I set myself the goal of representing GB and I am so very proud to have been selected to race with the GB Team in the World Sailing Championships for Blind and Partially Sighted people.” Mark has to find the money for training and racing. His personal expenses to attend all training during the year comes to almost £5,000. Mark said: “I’ve been Fundraising by playing my Saxophone at public and private events. The Tesco Superstore in Yate and Waitrose in Chipping Sodbury have both allowed me to busk in their stores over the past two years. Yate and Chipping Sodbury Rotary Clubs, the Lions Club and Chipping Sodbury Yacht Club have supported me”. For further information, Mark can be contacted at mja_ blindsailing@btinternet.com

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August, 2017

n NEWS

Youngsters to turn detective in annual summer reading challenge CHILDREN will turn into super sleuths to crack a case during this year’s summer reading challenge in South Gloucestershire’s libraries. Youngsters between the age of four and 11 can take part in the challenge, which has a theme of animal agents. It is based on a detective agency staffed by a variety of creatures who set out to solve a case at their local library with help from their friends. The challenge runs until September 16 and is free to join. Children should go to their local library and sign up to read six library books during the summer. As they finish each one, they will collect stickers to help them crack the clues and assist the animal agents find out what’s really been going on behind the scenes. Those who manage to read all six books and solve the case will get a medal, certificate and a free child’s ticket for the Wild Place Project or a free library DVD hire.

Rachael Hunt, vicechairwoman of South Gloucestershire Council, said: “Children’s literacy skills can dip during the long summer holidays but taking part in the challenge keeps children reading.

“More than 6,600 children in South Gloucestershire took part in last summer’s challenge and this year we hope more children than ever will be inspired to take part and make use of their local library.”

Libraries are also holding free activities throughout the summer to help children complete the challenge - from Bristol Zoo workshops to craft sessions and meeting a guide dog.

The trust that runs Thornbury’s Castle School has been chosen to help train the next generation of teachers THE Castle School Education Trust (CSET) has been awarded national teaching school status in a joint enterprise with Bradley Stoke Community School. As a partnership, they will work together on key aspects of local education provision. Although Bradley Stoke has been named as the lead school in the arrangement, CSET is an equal partner and staff will work alongside each other on the project. Teaching schools take a leading role in recruiting and training new entrants to the profession. They identify and develop leadership potential, provide support for other schools to bring about improvements and work to raise teaching standards.

Will Roberts, the CSET chief executive, said: “Teaching schools play a fundamental role in developing a system where

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trainee teachers learn from the best, where professional development is school-based and classroom focused and staff

demonstrating potential are encouraged to lead.” Bradley Stoke Community School was the founding school of the Olympus Academy Trust that now comprises seven South Gloucestershire schools. It is already working with CSET in providing support for Winterbourne International Academy (WIA) to get it out of special measures, with the Castle School’s headteacher Peter Smart currently acting as interim principal at Winterbourne. As reported in last month’s Thornbury Voice, Mr Smart will continue on secondment at Winterbourne during the next academic year, with Angie Browne taking on the role of interim head at the Castle School for 2017-18.

Email: contact@thornburyvoice.co.uk

thornburyvoice

August, 2017

n ADVERTISING FEATURE

An exciting year for Sixth Formers at Colston’s SIXTH Formers at Colston’s have just completed a very successful year, both inside and outside the classroom. Alongside their academic studies students participated in a range of co-curricular sporting and creative activities, community volunteering projects and the school’s innovative Future Leaders programme. Through this programme students are not only taught specific employability and life skills, but are also given the opportunity to experience reallife projects designed to stretch them and to fill any gaps they have in their professional profile. Involvement with real companies (this year’s students worked with Rolls-Royce, TasteTech and Superdry among others) gives the students a valuable insight into what employers and universities are looking for. The professional projects culminated in a presentation evening, during which the students confidently pitched their ideas to industry experts, with an added dimension of excitement as they competed against their peers to be the winning team. Sophie Reed, who is studying sciences and mathematics, described the professional project she took part in this year: “We really enjoyed developing our research skills in the field

of science whilst learning a lot about the marketing and financial side of the industry too. My favourite part of the project was our visit to TasteTech as it enabled us to see how products, similar to the one we designed, are being developed in the industry.” While Dr Paul Hill, Deputy Headmaster at Colston’s, commented “We have seen a tangible impact of the Future Leaders programme with some incredible university, apprenticeship and employments offers being made to our students. It is clear the universities and employers really value the work our students are doing to develop outstanding employability skills.” It’s not just the staff and students who are proud of the Future Leaders programme; it has received external recognition and was recently a finalist for an Education and Business Partnership Award at the Bristol Evening Post Education Awards. These students are now looking forward to joining the Upper Sixth in September, with all the opportunities for leadership that Colston’s provides through its prefect system and peer mentoring scheme, ensuring that they are well equipped to continue to succeed when they leave school.

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Register online at www.colstons.org Email: admissions@colstons.org Telephone: 0117 965 5207 Got News? Call Richard 0n 01454 800 120

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n ON THE BEAT

thornburyvoice

August, 2017

Increase in thefts from vans

PC Natalie Jones

WE’VE recently seen an increase in thefts of tools from vans across South Gloucestershire and I’d ask everyone to look out for anyone acting suspiciously around vans. We understand the impact on tradespeople of having their tools stolen and vans taken off the road for repairs. We know it’s not always possible to empty a work van overnight, but we’d recommend it if you can. Otherwise: • Permanently mark tools with your business name or postcode to make them identifiable • Keep them inside an anchored, secure storage cage or box within the vehicle • Set the alarm as well as locking the van • Park it in a secure garage or with the doors against a wall or

another vehicle to make access more difficult We’ve put up warning signs in the hotspot areas and have been carrying out regular patrols. Remember, if you see anyone trying to break into a van, call 999 immediately. If you see something suspicious but aren’t sure then ring 101 and if you have any information about those responsible for crime get in touch with the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. Don’t help to create a market for stolen goods – we’d also like to hear from you if you see tools offered for sale, online or in person, at a suspiciously cheap price. We’re also still working to tackle anti-social behaviour (ASB) in the town after reports of young people climbing onto the roofs

of buildings including Thornbury Hospital and Turnberries. Staff at both premises have also reported nuisance and damage, and there has been littering and damage in the community garden. It’s clearly dangerous for young people to be on roofs and I’d ask parents and carers to help to keep their children safe by making sure they know where they are, who they’re with and what they’re up to. Officers are carrying out targeted patrols and have written to the parents or carers of a number of young people. We’ve asked people living nearby to report incidents to us as they happen. Even if we’re not able to respond immediately, the information will help us plan our patrols.

Clinical pharmacists to help ease pressure at GP surgeries A GP practice in Thornbury is among a number of surgeries chosen to benefit from a scheme to give patients access to clinical pharmacists. Streamside Surgery will be able to offer appointments with a medicines expert who can clinically assess and treat patients using their expert knowledge of medication for specific illnesses and conditions. The scheme is jointly funded by NHS England and GP practices and comes after a successful pilot project in the South West in 2015. By making use of the pharmacists’ knowledge, GPs will have more time to see patients with more complex conditions. The clinical pharmacists will work alongside family doctors and nurses to help manage long-term conditions among

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patients, including those taking multiple medications. Amanda Fisk, of NHS England in the South West, said: “Getting drug treatment right is crucial in keeping people well and independent - and clinical pharmacists are the experts. “They can make a real difference, especially for patients with long-term conditions and who rely on multiple medications. “We also know that some practices have been struggling to cope with rising workloads and to recruit new doctors, so bringing in pharmacists will help ease the pressure as well as offering better care to patients.” Two GP practices in Yate will also have pharmacists under the scheme - Courtside Surgery and Wellington Road Family Practice.

Email: contact@thornburyvoice.co.uk

thornburyvoice

August, 2017

n NEWS

Chairman chooses two charities to support during his term of office A CHARITY that provides mental health support and information to young people has been chosen by the recently elected chairman of South Gloucestershire Council to help during his term of office. Councillor Ian Blair has selected Off the Record (OTR), which has been a registered charity since 1965 and offers free, confidential help to those aged between 11 and 25, as one of two organisations to benefit. As well as a base in Bristol, it runs sessions in South Gloucestershire, including in Yate, Little Stoke and Patchway. The second organisation to be supported is Borderlands, which helps refugees and asylum seekers. Each year the new chairman or woman of the council chooses a charity or charities to promote, with any donations received

From left, Roger Eynon and Tony Marson from Avon Valley Railway, Richard Rollings from Wild Places, Councillor Erica Williams, Councillor Ian Blair, Karen Black from Off the Record and Mohammed Hammad and Richard McKay from Borderlands. during that time presented to their representatives at the end of the term of office.

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Mr Blair, who represents Yate on the council, said: “I picked Off the Record because for many

young people, mental well-being is not as good as it could be and this charity does some fantastic work in South Gloucestershire and Bristol to help improve people’s life chances. “Equally, Borderlands reaches out to refugees and asylum seekers who need help to settle into communities after overcoming challenges many of us would struggle to comprehend. “I’m looking forward to working with both charities during my year in office and hope my support will help raise the profile of the invaluable services they provide to people.” Last year’s chairwoman, Erica Williams saw £3,730 raised through a variety of fundraising events for each of her charities - the Avon Valley Railway in Bitton and the Wild Place Project at Cribbs Causeway.

What’s on at The Swan Bingo Tuesday at 8.00pm Charity Quiz for Ezzy every Wednesday at 8.30pm Bingo Thursday at 2pm Every Sunday - Free dessert when you buy starter and main course at just £11.95 Special offers on drinks and food offers throughout the month 1st to 6th a chance for newcomers to enjoy a free pint of Fosters or John Smiths during our pub fortnight offer 6th to 12th 10% off any cask ale between 10am and 6pm 28th August Bank Holiday Fun Day with live music from Elevation at 3pm - Bouncy Castle and lots of activity for the kids 31st August Join us to celebrate National Burger Day – Build your own burger and receive a free soft drink (T&Cs apply) Available throughout the day PLUS Live Music every Friday and Saturday evening from 9.30pm

(Visit www.facebook.com/TheSwanThornbury for full details) Swan Charity of the month

Please come along and support Ezzy and help us raise £5000 to achieve our target

Also available - Function Room – Garden – Bed and Breakfast

www.swanthornbury.co.uk Contact us on 01454 413062 enquiries@swanthornbury.co.uk The Swan, High St, Thornbury, Bristol, BS35 2AE

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Email: contact@thornburyvoice.co.uk

n NEWS

Vintage rally set to bring in enthusiasts for annual show VINTAGE and classic cars will be on show when an event near Thornbury celebrates its tenth anniversary. The annual Tortworth Vintage Rally will take place on the weekend of August 12 and 13 on a site off the B4509. There will also be displays of motorbikes, tractors, stationary engines, commercial and military vehicles, as well as fairground organs. Organisers said a star attraction this year would be the world’s biggest travelling Verbeeck concert organ, which would arrive from Holland and feature in a traditional bioscope or travelling cinema - show on the Saturday night. Gates open for the rally at 10am on both days, with the bioscope event starting at 7.30pm.

thornburyvoice

August, 2017

New contract leads to pledge of better help for victims of domestic violence and abuse VICTIMS of domestic violence and abuse have been promised an improved service in South Gloucestershire. The charity Next Link has been awarded the contract to provide safe accommodation and support services, with improvements including an increase in refuge capacity to help an extra 20 households. A support line will also run longer, there will be more frontline staff available and the service will meet the needs and demands of not only women and their children but also extended to men and members of the LGBT community. Carol Metters, chief executive of Next Link Domestic Abuse Services, said: “For more than

18 years we have provided innovative domestic abuse services, including safe houses for victims who need to flee and community services for those who want to remain in the community and be safe.

“It is important that victims know there is help available to make them and their children safe. It’s not their fault, it shouldn’t be happening and it is a crime. “Our extensive experience has shown us that victims who

receive support go on to have safe fulfilling lives free from violence and abuse.” Under the new contract, there will continue to be training, support and advocacy in all GP practices in South Gloucestershire. Help will also be available within Southmead Hospital in both the A&E department and maternity unit. Anyone in South Gloucestershire who needs to reach the service can do so by emailing southglos@ nextlinkhousing.co.uk; chatting online at www.nextlinkhousing. co.uk/southglos, phoning 0800 4700 280 or sending a text to 07714 290011.

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August, 2017

n NEWS

Music and drama to be Free screening of awardcombined in portrait winning film to herald cinema club’s new season of composer Chopin

COMPOSER Frederick Chopin will be portrayed in drama and music when Michael Lunts returns to Thornbury with his one-man show Winter in Majorca. The production is a play and concert rolled into one, with professional actor and classical pianist Lunts appearing as Chopin as man and musician in the drama about his stay in a deserted monastery with the so-called first modern liberated woman, George Sand. Incorporated into the action are live performances of some of the pieces Chopin composed while there. The event on Saturday, September 9, starts at 7.30pm in the Cossham Hall and will be the first in an autumn series of concerts to raise funds for phase one of the Armstrong Hall redevelopment project.

Tickets cost £13 and are on sale in Thornbury Town Hall or can be obtained by phoning 01454 412272.

THE Oscarwinning movie Cinema Paradiso will be screened by Thornbury Picture House ahead of the launch of the film club’s new season. Set in Sicily, the film tells of a young boy’s fascination with cinema and his relationship with a kindly projectionist. It has sub-titles and features a music score by Ennio Morricone, with the 7.30pm screening on Friday, September 8, in the Armstrong Hall free to attend. The club’s regular season of 11 films will than start on Friday, September 29, with The Olive Tree to be shown in the Cossham Hall. The movie is a family tale of love and loss and the significance of an ancient olive tree. Other highlights of the season include the documentary Listen

Bootleg Blondie heading for Chipping Sodbury THE official Debbie Harry and Blondie tribute band are to play at Chipping Sodbury Town Hall this November. Bootleg Blondie have been booked by Cotswold Edge Events as part of their annual events programme and will appear in concert on the evening of Friday 10th November. The band has played at some of the world’s most legendary venues, including the CBGB in New York where Blondie first kicked off their career, and some of the top festivals around the UK and Europe. They have also opened concerts for The Undertones, Slade, Bad Manners, The Beat, Heaven 17, Tony Hadley, Toyah and Hazel O’Conner. Debbie Harris of Bootleg Blondie and the boys in the band have met the real Blondie and are officially endorsed by the

band. As Bootleg Blondie’s lead vocalist Debbie Harris has the looks, the voice and the attitude of the original Blondie bombshell and like her heroine is typically outrageous on stage. She has been known to wear dustbin liners, thigh length boots and t-shirts with more holes than t-shirt. Her pride and joy is her guitar, which she plays at every

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show and is signed by all the Blondie members. Debbie Harris is the niece of the celebrated singer and actress Shani Wallis who played Nancy in Lionel Bart’s musical film 'Oliver'! Full details of the band are available at www. bootlegblondie.com For ticket information call 07733 898762 or email marklloyd56@virginmedia.com

to me Marlon; Ken Loach's second Cannes Palme d'Or winner I, Daniel Blake; the sub-titled Labyrinth of Lies and the animated movie Ethel and Ernest. Details of all the films can be seen on the club’s website www. thornburypicturehouse.org and are also in a brochure available from Thornbury Town Hall. Club membership for the whole season costs £27.50 but audiences can also pay £5 at the door to see each film.

Annual summer show returns to Armstrong Hall GARDENERS are getting ready to display their best produce at the annual Thornbury Horticultural Society summer show. The event will take place at its traditional venue in the town’s Armstrong Hall complex on Saturday, August 12. Classes will be held for flowers, vegetables and floral art, with the show organisers also catering for handicrafts, cookery and photographs, as well as running a number of sections for children. Visitors will be able to see the entries from 2pm-4pm, when tea and cakes will be served. Rex Davis, chairman of the society, said schedules were available from the Garden Shop in High Street, the town hall and T and J Owen on The Plain. Details are also available on the society’s website.

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n WHAT’S ON IN OUR AREA August 4 n Friday 4th August 10.15am 11.45am: Popular Classics- piano duets by Sue Harbottle & Helen Kirby. Contact Barbara Goom, tel 01454 424826; Robin Pencavel tel 01454 632064. August 18 n Friday 18th August 10.15am 11.45am: The O'Briens - Singing, keyboards and violins. Barbara Goom, tel 01454 424826; Robin Pencavel tel 01454 632064. September 4 n Avon Wind Band Association. Registered Charity No 1165352 A new learner class will begin on Monday 4th september 2017 at Bailey’s Court Primary School, Bradley Stoke starting at 7.30 p.m. for those wishing to play a woodwind or brass instrument. To join the Class please contact Keith Hunt, Chairman of the Association on 0117 9049125 or by e-mail keh35@blueyonder.co.uk Don’t worry if you do not have your own instrument as the charity can loan you one at no extra cost. For more information visit our website www. avonwindbandassociation.com September 21 n Candlelit Flute Recital 'One World, One Flute' - Rockhampton Church Nicola Woodward, flautist, know locally as Nicki Barnes, will be launching her new programme

of folk-influenced flute music 'One World, One flute' in an atmospheric hour-long candlelit concert on September 21st at 7.45 in St Oswald's Church, Rockhampton. The concert is timed to coincide with the UN International Day of Peace and all proceeds will go to WarChild Charity. Tickets £10 ( students £3 ) to include a glass of wine, from 07973 796508

Severn Vale Flower Club

Armstrong Complex, Thornbury BS35 2BJ . Annual subscription £42, visitors £5. Demonstrations 3rd Wednesday in the month at 2.00 PM. Practice classes at 1.30 PM members £3 visitors £5 n June 21st 60 glorious years (Mini demonstration) followed by celebration tea at eastwood park 1.30 Pm for 2.00 Pm start n June 26th practice the joy of the garden – basket arrangement n July 19th members day lunch, entertainment & kay evans competitions. Doors open 12 noon for 12.30 Pm n July 31st practice in the green – foliage arrangement Secretary jill morgan 01454 228408 jillmorgan36@btinternet.Com

'Ezzy's Wish To Walk' at The Swan n Friday 7 July 7pm Trades People Auction. n Saturday 15 July 4pm Ezzy's

Bushtucker Swan Trial (entry fee applies) n Sunday 27 August 2-6pm Ezzy's 'Fanks' Fun Day - Live Music - BBQ. 7pm Ezzy's Got Talent and Karaoke n Saturday 2 September Ezzy's Farewell Thank You Ball - Marriott Bristol

Regular favourite events at The Swan

n Every Tuesday 8pm Bingo n Every Wednesday 8.30pm The Swan Quiz n Every Thursday 2pm Bingo n Every Friday 9am to 12pm Coffee Morning with all proceeds to the Charity of the Month n Every Sunday Free Jukebox. Plus Live Music every Friday and Saturday evening from 9.15pm Swan Charity of the Month Thornbury Lights Association 'That's all folks'

Regular events Monday n 7.00 pm Armstrong Hall Cossham Hall World Dance 7pm - 10 pm Tuesday n 11.00 am - 1.30 pm Armstrong Hall - Excell Room Recycled Teenagers Lunch Club Wednesday n 2.00 pm Armstrong Hall Cossham Hall Tea Dance 01454

August, 2017

We would love to publicise your event Send details of your events and activities in the following format:

WHAT IT IS WHERE IT IS WHEN IT IS in no more than 40 words: email us at: contact@thornburyvoice. co.uk

412060 n 2.00 pm. Armstrong Hall, Committee Room Lip Reading Classes Thursday n8.00 pm. Armstrong Hall Ceroc Dance Friday n 2.00 pm. Armstrong Hall Committee Room Canasta Club n Alveston: Marlwood School Marlwood Folk Companions 7:45 – 9:15pm (term time only). 01454 414365 Peter.sumner@ btopenworld.com

What’s on at Thornbury Library *Connect *Keep Learning *Be Active *Notice *Give #Fivewaystowellbeing Free Event Wednesday 5 July 3.30-5.30 Drop in to discover easy tips for improving your wellbeing and lifting your mood, with Curo Community Connectors. Try a free 20min Mindfulness taster session in a small group – book your free place in advance online at: bit.ly/ mflTh or in person at Thornbury Library. Watch the #FiveWaysToWellbeing slideshow on the library screen – showing throughout the summer during library opening hours. South Gloucestershire Council One Stop Shop Office Has Left Thornbury Library The council’s One Stop Shop service, which operated inside

Thornbury Library for the past three years, closed permanently on Friday 30 June. Alternative One Stop Shop offices are situated in Patchway, Yate and Kingswood, full address details at www. southglos.gov.uk/contactus. You can also report a range of issues from missed bin collections to pot holes online at www.southglos. gov.uk/reportit Storytime & Rhymetime For Babies Pre-SchoolerS Join us in June & July for Storytime until Monday 17 July 2.15pm-2.45pm & Rhymetime until Friday 21 July 11.15am11.45am before we take a break over the summer. Toilets & nappy changing facility available – ask a member of staff. Breast-feeding welcome. It’s a great way to meet other local parents and new faces are always welcome – and

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it’s FREE! No booking required, just turn up! We look forward to welcoming everyone back after the summer from Monday 4 September. Animal Agents, Summer Reading Challenge 2017 Starts Saturday 15 July and runs until 16 September. It’s FREE to join! Best suited to 4-11 year olds. Read six library books to get your medal and certificate, picking up goodies including stinky stickers, bookmark and wristband along the way. Libraries are also holding free activities throughout the summer to help children complete the challenge including: Bristol Zoo workshops, ‘Meet a guide dog’ visits and craft sessions. Go to www.southglos. gov.uk/childrenslibrary or drop in to your local library to find out

more. See Facebook for latest updates. Macmillan Cancer Support And Information Service Friday 21 JULY 1.30pm-3.30pm Do you have questions about cancer, for you or someone you care for? Drop-in to Thornbury Library to see the Macmillan Cancer Information Specialist. This is a free service, no booking is required. Like us on Facebook: www. facebook.com/sgloslibraries Follow us on Twitter: @SouthGlosLibs Looking for opening times, service information or contact details? See our website www. southglos.gov.uk/libraries

Email: contact@thornburyvoice.co.uk

thornburyvoice

August, 2017

n NEWS

New man aims to promote healthy lifestyles The organisation behind South Gloucestershire’s leisure centres is aiming to get more people living healthy lifestyles after hiring Jim Rollo. Jim has been appointed Healthy Lifestyle Manager at Circadian Trust, based in Thornbury. He will focus on providing a referral scheme for inactive people who have existing health conditions, as well as those at risk of developing them. The Health Referral Scheme will be for health professionals to refer patients to get involved with physical activity to support a healthy lifestyle. It covers a wide range of conditions including high blood pressure, diabetes, asthma, arthritis, overweight or obesity, depression or anxiety and osteoporosis. Jim is on familiar ground as he worked closely with the Active Lifestyle Centres in

his previous role delivering the award winning exercise on referral scheme for South Gloucestershire Council. Circadian Trust is a not for profit organisation that operates five leisure sites and two dualuse sports centres across South Gloucestershire, including Thornbury Active Lifestyle Centre.

Artistic talent on show at club’s annual exhibition WORK by members of Thornbury Art Club can be seen at a summer exhibition in the Methodist Church Hall, Castle Court. The event runs from Saturday, July 29, to Sunday, August 6, and entry is free. Visitors are welcome to view the paintings from 10am-6pm each day, except on Sundays when the opening hours are 2pm-4pm. Those going along will also be asked to vote for their favourite exhibit. The club developed from a regular painting class that started in 1965 within Thornbury and District Community Association. It now meets on most first Wednesdays of the month, except in the summer, in the Cossham Hall, with the next club night scheduled for September 6.

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July, 2017 Issue 4

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Green light for homes on council office site Go ahead given for retirement complex on Castle Street PAGE 2

Big dig gets underway in Oldbury Work starts at Iron Age camp PAGE 5

Pieces fall into place for Jigsaw Charity moves into new Thornbury HQ PAGE 8

In the swing Having a blast: Firefighters in Thornbury sign up some young recruits. Find out more in our community news, Page 7.

Tennis club enjoys a good start to the season PAGE 30

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from across the South West. The main arena will host motorcycle action, dog and falconry displays as well as the ‘Ham National’ - pig racing that will raise money for charity. Other attractions include a motoring field, country fair, kids zone and a country fair.

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n NEWS

August, 2017

Faults found during School marks child car seat checks 70th birthday in Thornbury PUPILS at Tockington Manor School have celebrated it’s 70th birthday. Founded in 1947 the school was originally set up as a boarding school to serve military families. now it functions as a prep school for children aged 2 to 13 years, from the UK and overseas, with wrap around care for day and boarding pupils. The school’s official birthday was on Friday 5th May but the festivities took off at the school’s annual Fun Day in July.

The event included a guest appearance from Bristol Zoo’s Denzil the Dinosaur, the Clifton College Soul Band and Rock Pipes Local company Anana loaned their stunt plane, piloted by Richard Goodwin who provided flying display and the Red Arrows did a slight detour to fly in formation over the Tockington Manor house on their way home from the Weston Air Festival and Armed Forces Display.

South Glos Council has been holding a series of safety checks

A NUMBER of child car seats were found to have faults when they were checked in Thornbury. Police officers stopped vehicles carrying children so members of South Gloucestershire Council’s road safety team could examine the seats. Of the 126 seats checked, 12 had major faults and another 35 had minor faults. The officers also found five children with no seat or any type of restraint, despite their height dictating they should have protection. The checks were carried out at Thornbury’s fire station as part of a campaign to ensure the safety of children when travelling

by car. Heather Goddard, the council’s cabinet member for community services, said: “Every car seat safety check day we carry out confirms how necessary these events are, as large numbers of drivers we talk to are unsure of the correct fitting for their seats. “They often have lots of questions to ask our experts, particularly about booster seats at the moment, and are always very appreciative of the help and advice given.” The road safety team will be holding similar events around South Gloucestershire in August and September.

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thornburyvoice

August, 2017

n NEWS

Summer circus comes to SS Great Britain

Own a local business? A VICTORIAN Summer Circus is coming to the SS Great Britain for the summer holidays. Cirque Bijou will be entertaining visitors to the historic ship in Bristol, inspired by the Great Britain’s voyages. Based on the ‘Crossing the Line’ initiation ceremonies performed by sailors to mark the first time one of their own crossed the equator, the spectacle will feature juggling and acrobatics. Visitors can learn new circus skills with free, drop-in workshops on Brunel Square.

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Improved broadband service set to reach more parts of South Gloucestershire FASTER broadband has been pledged for more people in South Gloucestershire in the latest phase of a project to improve the service. A contract has been awarded to BT for the next stage of the ongoing roll-out of ultra-fast and Next Generation Access broadband to about 4,300 homes and businesses by the end of 2018. The service will be provided after a successful bid by South Gloucestershire Council for £2 million of funding from Broadband Delivery UK and £1 million from the West of England Local Enterprise Partnership. Communities to benefit as a result of the bid include some rural areas not previously covered and remaining areas within communities that were part of the previous two phases. They include Almondsbury, Alveston, Aust, Cromhall, Dodington, Falfield, Frampton Cotterell, Horton, Iron Acton, Olveston,

Rangeworthy, Rockhampton, Sodbury, Tormarton, Tortworth, Westerleigh, Wickwar, Winterbourne and Yate. All areas are subject to the standard survey and planning work which will need to be carried out. John Goddard, the council’s cabinet member for corporate resources, said: “So far, more than 20,000 homes and businesses have been able to access fibre broadband as part of our roll-out. “Once complete, thousands more homes and businesses in more rural areas are set to benefit from a service that would not have been available without the council’s continued efforts to bring about these improvements.” Work to provide the service will start later this year, with more information on when communities will be able to benefit from the final phase of the roll-out publicised in due course.

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Can you help please? We may pay you! Trusted Traders is new to this area, and needs your help. We are looking for your local business recommendations. They will be invited to join Trusted Traders, and when they do, we send you £20 as a “Thank you” for helping. Visit our website, and use the ‘Contact us’ form to get in touch.

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thornburyvoice

August, 2017

n NEWS

Gatcombe festival set to host stars of the eventing world - and Valegro, the most famous dressage horse on the planet MANY of the world’s top event riders will be in action at Gatcombe Park for one of the most prestigious horse trials fixtures - with the best known dressage horse also making a guest appearance. British team regulars Pippa Funnell and William Fox-Pitt are among the entries for the Festival of British Eventing, along with their team-mates from the Rio Olympics, Kitty King and Gemma Tattersall. Other Rio stars set to take on the Gatcombe challenge are the British-based New Zealanders Mark Todd and Tim Price, as well as Aussie Christopher Burton. Crowd favourite Mary King will be joined by her daughter Emily on the start list, while Zara Tindall will be competing on home ground aboard BGS Class Affair. South Gloucestershire will be represented throughout the weekend courtesy of Harry Meade, whose yard is in West Littleton and has several rides accepted; Chipping Sodbury’s Nick Gauntlett with Cosmic Order and Alveston’s Simon Vatcher on Camblin Hill. Other leading British riders include Nicola Wilson, Izzy Taylor and Oliver Townend. Meanwhile, recently retired dressage star Valegro is set to draw a big crowd when he parades in the main arena. With his rider Charlotte Dujardin, the horse won a string of Olympic, world and European medals, retaining the individual gold medal won at the London Games when competing at Rio last year. Valegro will be stabled close to the collecting ring after his display on the Sunday of the festival, allowing people to get close to the equine superstar. The festival runs from Friday, August 4, to Sunday, August 6, and will be presented by BETA

- the British Equestrian Trade Association. It features the main British Open Championship, incorporating the Event Riders Masters, as well as the British intermediate and novice championships, the British Amateur Championship for the Corinthian Cup and a separate advanced class for the Neptune Trophy. Captain Mark Phillips has again designed the cross country courses and this year has added a second water feature at Avening Banks as the next phase of development in an area of the park fast becoming popular with spectators. He said: “The new extension to the water looks great and I’m looking forward to seeing the riders take on this challenge, which will ask new questions on this part of the course.” Pictures courtesy of Chas Breton

Above: Cross-country course designer Captain Mark Phillips (right) with Festival of British Eventing director Tim Henson at the new water fence. Below: Festival of British Eventing cross-country course designer Captain Mark Phillips.

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thornburyvoice

August, 2017

n LETTERS Thornbury Horticultural Summer Show Summer has come,the longest day has passed, flowers are blooming, fruit is ripening, veg is ready to harvest and Thornbury in Bloom has been judged. Thornbury Horticultural Society Summer Show 2017 is now here. If you are young or old you could enter or visit the show. There will be veg, flowers, floral art, cooking, handicraft, photographs and children’s classes if you are interested in any of these subjects please have a go. There will be tea and cakes for refreshment. This will be taking place on 12th August 2017 2:00 to 4:00pm at the Armstrong Hall Complex, Thornbury. Schedules available from The Garden Shop, Thornbury High Street, Owen’s The Plain, and Town Hall. Details also available on our web site : http://www. thornburyhorticulturalsociety. org.uk Rex Davis, Chairman Thornbury Horticultural Society

Looking Back At Policing Dear Sir, I was interested in the article, View From Thornbury and District Museum about Thornbury police in the July edition of Thornbury Voice as I served as a beat officer in Thornbury from 1965 to 1972. Having been born and brought up in Severn Beach, the article was a reminder of my past. During my time I was one of four constables, two sergeants, one inspector, one cadet and a civilian clerk/typist. I should also mention Mrs Else Davies, who was the station cleaner. This establishment policed not only Thornbury but the surrounding district. We were aided by officers stationed in Falfield, Alveston and Olveston. The officer at Cribbs Causeway came under Filton. These officers gave the area a 24/7 cover and were well known by the local people. We also extended our area of cover at night to cover the area bounded by the village of Stone in the north to the Bristol boundary in the south and the River Severn in the west

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to the boundary with Wiltshire in the east. A formidable area to cover using a Morris J2 diesel engined personnel carrier. We did eventually 'modernise' with a Morris 1000 Traveller. The only other form of transport was an Ariel Leader motor cycle, of which at the time I was the only licensed/ authorised rider. During my time at Thornbury I also served as treasurer to Thornbury Youth Club, getting to know many of the area’s youth, good and bad. I was also instrumental in setting up cycle proficiency classes at local schools and youth movements. This led to an annual road safety quiz with teams of four taking part for a cup donated by a local business. Most of these activities were sometimes in addition to my normal duties. The benefit was that the local police were known to and formed part of the local community. Some of these activities would not have been possible without the help of many local residents.

This part of my police service, though very enjoyable, was hard on my wife and family as I could work seven different shifts in as many days. Also, after leaving my home for work, my wife would not know when I would return as in those days if you became involved in an incident you had to stay at work until you had finished dealing with it. No one ever considered telling a spouse what had happened. Out on the beat, an officer’s only means of contact if on foot was a whistle or, if lucky, a telephone box. If you had a police vehicle, you did have a radio. As I had two children who were being brought up in a different world to what I had experienced ,I decided to keep notes on my life. This eventually led to me writing my life story. That publication, called My Life, From War Time to Spare Time can be bought through Thornbury Museum. From Clive Washbourne, Thornbury

Citizens Advice takes a stand against scams in South Gloucestershire CITIZENS Advice South Gloucestershire has been taking part in a campaign to help prevent people falling victim to scams. The organisation, which runs twice-weekly sessions in Thornbury as well as having its office in Yate, wants to encourage those who have been conned to report their experience. The drive comes as Citizens Advice nationally has revealed a 17 per cent increase in people being scammed after buying phantom goods. It said the scam works by conning shoppers into buying high value items, often online, which turn out not to exist. The average loss was £1,100. People were most likely to be scammed when buying cars, flights and furniture. Other phantom goods included jewellery and cameras. The Citizens Advice consumer service received 555 reports of such scams during January and March 2017, compared with 495 over the same period in the previous year. Scams reported to Citizens Advice South Gloucestershire in the past year include online shopping and auction scams – the most commonly reported type of fraud in the area. Chantal Watts, general manager of Citizens Advice South Gloucestershire said: “Being scammed can ruin people’s finances. “People can lose significant amounts from phantom goods scams, so it’s important they don’t rush into online purchases until they’re sure the seller is genuine. “We’re encouraging people to report and talk about scams so that more fraudsters can be stopped. “People can also come and see us or call the Citizens Advice consumer service if they want advice on whether something is a genuine deal or a scam, or for advice if they have been scammed.” The consumer service can be contacted on 03454 040506. Scams or suspected scams should be reported to Action Fraud by email to www.actionfraud.police.uk or by phoning 0300 123 2040.

Email: contact@thornburyvoice.co.uk

thornburyvoice

August, 2017

n MOTORING

A guide to pre-owned cars with Richard Cooke

Second hand Style With diesel cars falling out of favour, and not everyone willing, or able, to buy new, Richard starts his investigation into the used Alternatively-Fuelled Vehicles (AFV) market: Toyota Prius 2009 – 2015: Uberquitous. FOR drivers wishing to contribute to cleaner air in South Gloucestershire, let’s start at the beginning: Toyota’s Prius was the starting point for mass-produced hybrids, and after a slow start these odd-looking hatchbacks are now everywhere - 4 million worldwide sales over twenty years. Many of us have been in a Prius, if not as the driver then as a passenger; Uber would be lost without them. The model I’m testing is a 2009 third generation, with a very gently tuned 1.8 litre petrol engine combining with a

1.3KWh battery to produce 134hp. The Prius comes with a lot of very clever technology, including the ‘Hybrid Synergy Drive’ (Toyota’s all-electronic gearbox) as well as regenerative braking, which charges the battery as you slow down. That’s all fine as long as it’s working, but should you buy one over a conventional car? Toyotas are supremely reliable, and despite added complexity the Prius upholds that reputation - see minicab ranks for further proof of their longevity. Battery failure rates are very low, and the battery warranty was extended to 8 years from June 2010. Toyota claim the battery should last the lifetime of the car, whatever that means, and if it does fail, Toyota charge £955 plus VAT and fitting. In 2012 they introduced a plug-

Advert for Thornbury Voice Interested in Rugby? Join Thornbury Rugby Club Everyone is is welcome welcome Everyone Players from aged 5 Players from aged 5 to to adult Adult We now have a ladies team Now a Ladies team Come along as a player or supporter and enjoy a great social life at a truly amateur rugby club England stars Billy and Mako Vunipola joined Thornbury RFC, so why don’t you? For more information go to www.thornburyrfc.co.uk or call Chairman Michael Tinney on 07986 668068

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in option, which only really works if you have a driveway. Replacement batteries for this version are an eyewatering £4,700. When new, Toyota claimed an incredible 70mpg, and there is no road tax payable on a third generation Prius (whereas a new one will cost you £110 for the first year). This test car has enough room inside, however the rear seats would be more suitable for two rather than three. Storage is good - there’s a wide and low-lipped boot and plenty of cup holders and cubby-holes. I noticed some hard interior plastics, understandable evidence of Toyota trying to keep weight and cost down. On the move I expected performance to be soporific, but instead the engine felt quite punchy although too harsh to be

relaxing. The A432 to Yate section of my test route showed up the electronic fly-by-wire brakes as tricky though – they were the subject of a recall, so check this has been done. Pedal feel and bite was unpredictable, ditto the automatic gearbox, which has that peculiar ‘elastic band’ sensation you get from this type of system. You might get used to it after a while. Driving on purely electric power proved to be a difficult and pointless challenge – I managed one mile at less than 30mph before the petrol engine almost imperceptibly joined the party. Don’t push the Prius, cruise it that’s really the point of this car. Toyota’s 70mpg claim turns out to be fantasy – expect 55mpg, which is still exceptional for a 5 door petrol hatchback. The Prius used to be the only hybrid show in town, but is now competing in an increasingly crowded market. If the alternative was a soon-to-be-obsolete diesel hatchback, I might choose the Prius. However I suspect there are now other, better AFV options out there. What to pay: £6k for a 2009 mega-mile ex-Uber, £18k for a low mileage end of the line 2015 model. Next month: Do Androids dream of an electric Leaf?

L & J Gulwell

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August, 2017

n VIEW FROM THORNBURY AND DISTRICT MUSEUM

Former market hall and toll house THE former market hall in Thornbury’s High Street has been taken over by a restaurant chain, giving a new role to one of the town’s most prominent buildings. According to an English Heritage survey, the building is listed as a probable mid-18th century remodelling of 17th century premises. It is assumed that at one time the market hall was of the classic town market design, with pillars surrounding an open area at ground level that was used on market days and an enclosed room on the upper floor used as a court house and for other official purposes. An article published in 1909 in the Western Daily Press said records indicated that such a market had existed since 1662. It said that in March 1670, King Charles II granted Viscount William Stafford and the Lady Mary the right to hold a weekly market for the buying and selling of corn and

cattle, as well as other merchandise - a right that continued until 1911. With the right went the ownership of the market hall and the adjoining toll house, where market traders paid their tolls, and the responsibility to maintain the buildings. During its lifetime, the market hall also doubled up as the town hall, had its own lock-up or “gaol” and was even used to store a fire engine and apparatus, while a significant feature is the clock on the front of the premises. Although designed as an eightday clock, it was necessary to wind it every five or six days due to the drop for the massive weights being too short. The lock-up had been referred to in an account written by an Edmund Lloyd in the late 1840s or early 1850s as the “blind house” - a common name for such facilities because they had no windows, just a ventilation grille. Prisoners were locked up,

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The former market hall when it was used as a fire station. usually overnight, before being released, taken to the local court or moved to a bigger prison in a larger town. Their crimes would have included drunkenness, burglary, picking pockets, stealing livestock and poaching. Meanwhile, the toll house was occupied by families from the 1840s onwards and according to census records had occupations other than toll collector. It is possible that they combined two or more jobs as the collection of market tolls was only a part-time task. With increasing concern about the position of the market in High Street and cattle roaming freely due to a lack of animal stalls, the livestock market was moved to a

site off Bath Road in 1911. It is believed the last High Street market took place in the same year but there was certainly a Christmas market there in December 1910. More recent uses of the market hall were for retail purposes, occupied by the likes of department stores Worthington’s and Wildings. The toll house was also used as part of the stores, except for short periods when it was let out as an independent shop. Now the market house has been occupied by restaurant chain Prezzo. Information and photographs courtesy of Thornbury and District Museum

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Adrawing of the former market hall showing how it would have looked when the ground floor was open.

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thornburyvoice

August, 2017

n TAKE A BREAK PUZZLES FOR EVERYONE Adult puzzles Children’s puzzles

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August, 2017

SPORTS STARTS HERE

Tense times in Thornbury’s Tie Break Tens tennis tournament

THORNBURY Lawn Tennis Club has held its first Tie Break Tens tournament. All matches were played using a championship tie break format with some minor adjustments to keep matches short and to provide a handicap to some players, making matches tense and extremely competitive. A typical match lasted 10 minutes, so there was no sizing up your opponent and every point counted. The format provides fast entertaining tennis and there are parallels with the successful format of 20-20 cricket. This was a doubles tournament with men, women, juniors and mixed teams competing against each other. 12 pairs entered the competition with ages ranging from 9 years to 79 years. They were divided into two leagues of 6 teams with each pair playing against the other pairs in their

Competitors in Thornbury Lawn Tennis Club Tie Break Tens Tournament. league. The top two in each league qualified for the semifinals which determined the pairs in the final. The playing conditions were perfect for tennis: dry, warm with some sunshine and only a light breeze. A total of thirty matches were played in the league section of the tournament. There were many very close matches with

Mair Vaughan & Phil Jones with the Tie Break Tens trophy.

thornburyvoice

2017 Issue 3

MONT

as nst developers proposed are New battle agai e new houses hundreds mor could be UP to 370 houseseld site on the as built on a greenﬁ of Thornbury the northern edge target continue to developers

homes town. 1,000 new With nearly in or approved already built with others in the recent years - opponents ﬁght planning pipeline for another for are preparing latest scheme to stop the of Gloucester farmland south from the town way Road on the and the A38. to Whitﬁeld

at Thornbury Farm Three sites has Farm and Post more application Fields, Park The outline accounted for by Bovis Homes have already with a decision been submittedof the Fear family, than 900 homes, on land west and members access roads oﬀ housing be for further Road yet to with two main proposed to of Gloucester Road Gloucester up decided. proposal for serve the site. plan, there will However, a Cleve Park, Under the at building, to 350 houses end of Morton a also be a community at the southern by South play areas and allotments, provided. Way, was refusedCouncil recently. country park in house Gloucestershire a The large rise causing is the town page 10. building in of concern among Full story large amount council leaders. residents and

3 01454 41334o.uk

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& Brendan Wilde. This match was also closely contested. With the score at 9-8, Mair held her nerve and hit an excellent shot down the line to give Phil & Mair a 10-8 victory. The final was played between Phil Jones & Mair Vaughan and Joe & Louise Sturt. Again, there was some very high quality tennis played, but ultimately the experience of Phil & Mair was the difference between the pairs and they won 10-6. Phil & Mair have the honour of being the first winners of this new annual event.

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nine going to a ‘sudden death’ deciding point to determine the winner after the scores were tied at 9-9. The first semi-final was between Joe & Louise Sturt and Linda Mantle & Brian Jordan. This was another cliff-hanger with the match going to 9-9. In the deciding point the ball hit the net tape, thought about climbing over before falling back giving Joe & Louise the win by the narrowest margin. The second semi-final was between Phil Jones & Mair Vaughan and Megan O’Connor

Cricket club to season PAGE 30

enjoy

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MONTH IN

June, 2017

THOR

Issue 3

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NBURY AND SURROUNDIN New battle agai G VILLAGES hundreds mor nst developers as e new houses Not so secret agents are proposed needed

UP to 370 houses built on a greenfi could be The outline northern edge eld site on the been submittedapplication has of Thornbury developers as continue to and members by Bovis Homes target the town. with two main of the Fear family, With nearly access roads Gloucester Road proposed off already built 1,000 new homes serve the site. or approved to recent years in - with others Under the plan, planning pipeline in the there will also be a community - opponents are preparing building, allotments, for another to stop the play areas and fight latest country park a farmland south scheme for provided. of Gloucester The large rise Road on the in house way from the building in to Whitfield the and the A38. town large amount town is causing a residents and of concern among council leaders.

Three sites Fields, Park at Thornbury Farm and Post have already accounted for Farm than 900 homes, more with a decision for further housing on land of Gloucester Road yet to west decided. be

However, a to 350 houses proposal for up at the southernat Cleve Park, end of Morton Way, was refused Gloucestershire by South Council recently. Full story page 10.

Thornbury Library for the summer is recruiting reading challenge PAGE 3

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Email: contact@thornburyvoice.co.uk

August, 2017

thornburyvoice

n SPORTS

Let us know how your team are getting on

Chris enjoys successful race LOCAL race driver Chris Hignell from Yate enjoyed another successful Saloon Car Championship race at an overcast and chilly Castle Combe in mid July. A time of 1m24.3 in his Peugeot 106 Gti was Hignell’s second fastest lap time ever and placed him 33rd on the grid ahead of two of his class protagonists and directly behind his brother Stuart in his more powerful Citroen Saxo. Changeable conditions in the hours leading up to the race led to anxious sky watching however the race started in the dry. A good start from Hignell kept him ahead of his class competitors for quite some time but eventually he conceded a place. An extremely hard fought battle coupled with improved reliability after the previous race weekend, helped Chris bring the car home in a best ever 20th overall, and 4th in class. The 6 valuable points gained maintains his 4th in class and a fantastic 11th overall in the championship. The racecar will be on display at the South Glos show on the 5/6 August on the Sodbury Fuels stand and Chris will be in attendance on the Sunday afternoon for race fans to get a close look at the car and for youngsters to enjoy a very rare opportunity to sit in the car for photos. The next round of the Saloon Car Championship is at Castle Combe is on Sunday 13th August.

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n RUGBY

August, 2017

Thornbury Ladies make history By Dave Fox

THE first ever match for ‘The Thornbees’, Thornbury’s senior women’s rugby team, showed great promise for the future despite defeat at Aretians. They may have lost 19-5, but Thornbury Ladies showed there is huge potential in the side with a committed performance. The side, known as the Thornbees, gave as good as they got and responded to an early

converted Aretians try with great determination. After several minutes pressurising Aretians, Sadie Giles broke through several tackles to score a fine individual try and became the first points scorer for the fledgling side. Aretians responded well and a well-timed tackle from skipper Gemma Tyrrell prevented a certain try. But the home side were not to be denied and crossed for a second try after persistent pressure. Aretians led 12-5 at half time. A further converted try put Aretians 19-5 ahead but although the Thornbees had a significant deficit to address they never gave up and were the stronger side in the final quarter. Good defence kept them out as they drove for the line in the last few minutes. The coaching team of Quent Jackson, Gary Kingston and Ian Maunder plus the forwards guru Jonny Wilson, guided a team with only two players with

previous experience of the game. The outstanding Bobbie Jackson looked very much at home on the pitch and follows two generations of Jacksons before her at Thornbury. Scorer: try - Sadie Giles Team: Rachael Underwood; Gail Daniel, Jade Bingham, Lou Oakey, Sharon Kingsland-Wain; Gemma Tyrrell (c), Bobbie

Jackson; Catherine Preston, Elaine Romaeo, Kim Fox, Jo Johnson, Laura Panting, Dani Telka, Sadie Giles, Lindsay Broughton. Replacements: Tina Pincott, Claire Kingston, Cath Fishlock Also in attendance: Beth Kane, Zoe Boxall and Lauryn Clayton

The Thornbees - the start of something special? THE side was brought together by Gemma Tyrrell and consists mainly of mums of players in Thornbury Juniors, plus partners and family of other Thornbury members. They are coached by Quentin Jackson assisted by Ian Maunder and Gary Kingston, with expert forward coaching from Jonny Wilson. There is huge potential for a strong

ladies side at Thornbury, but it is early days. They play their first home fixture on August 12th and the Thornbees will be building a list of friendly fixtures against ladies teams of a similar standard. The club would be delighted to hear from any women who fancy giving rugby a go. Anyone interested should call Gemma Tyrrell on 07572 646136 or Quent Jackson

To advertise, contact Richard on 01454 800 120

on 07814 032213. Thornbury’s senior men have three pre-season games – home to Reading Abbey on August 12th, then away to Chichester the following Saturday and Old Patesians on August 24th. Their first league game is at Bideford in Devon on September 2nd.

Email: contact@thornburyvoice.co.uk

thornburyvoice

August, 2017

n CRICKET

Rockhampton enjoying solid season despite cup disappointment WITH the cricket season now into its’ second half, Rockhampton can reflect on a successful campaign to date with the First XI having won 7 of the first 11 matches to sit well up the WEPL 2 Glos/Wilts league table. The club has also had another good run in the National Village Knockout and won the Gloucestershire group before defeating the Hampshire winners, Liphook, by just 1 run in the first national round. This put them through to the last 16 in the country with dreams of another appearance at Lords, but these were dashed when another away trip, to Oxfordshire winners Aston Rowant, resulted in a crushing 8 wicket defeat. At the beginning of July, Rockhampton also hosted 3 day game between Gloucestershire 2nd’s and Ireland ‘A’, with good weather and over 1100 runs scored. Another Gloucestershire 2nd’s game is being hosted from 29 – 31 August. Rockhampton is now running four adult sides on a Saturday and has a record youth membership in 2017, but new members are always welcome. Although the cricket season will be drawing to a close in September, winter coaching is now being planned so please contact Paul Williams on 07895 156689 if you are interested in joining.

Guy Brothwood batting in Rockhampton’s defeat at Aston Rowant.

Wins across the board for Thornbury in strong season THORNBURY enjoyed a successful weekend towards the end of July strengthening league positions for their sides. With many games cancelled in the WEPL, Gloucester and Bristol leagues, all four Thornbury sides picked up vital wins The 1st and 2nd teams both beat Gloucester City Winget and in doing so cemented strong middle table positions in the West of England Premier 2 and Gloucester County League division 2 respectively. The 3rd and 4th teams are now sitting second in their leagues in the Bristol and District

With two thirds of the season now completed, the first team have won 5 and lost 7 games, a far better position than at the same point the previous season. Luke Davis the newly appointed Captain this season has been particularly impressive with 328 runs and 15 wickets so far. At the start of the season the club made the decision to keep Tuesday evenings at the club free of games to ensure a proper structured training night for all players to attend. On average 35 people a week have practised on the square, in the nets and enjoyed various training drills.

Cricket Chairman John Wormwell says this has bonded all the players together, giving great team spirit and made a difference to the fielding on Saturdays. The current average age of the 1st team is 21 which bodes well for the future, with some talented young

players throughout the youth section, where all sides are enjoying success. Dan Davis has been the stand out player so far this season with 494 runs and 19 wickets, which puts him in the top five runs scorers and wicket takers in the WEPL league

Deliverers needed for Thornbury Voice Would you like to help deliver Thornbury Voice to our readers? We are looking for people to help us with this important role. It’s a once a month commitment, so whether you are looking for some paid exercise or extra pocket money, we’d like to hear from you. You need to be reliable, as it’s important the paper goes to homes in the area every month. The minimum age for a round is 13 (with parental permission) - there is no upper limit! Email contact@thornburyvoice.co.uk

Deliverers needed for Thornbury Voice Distributer needed Would you like to help deliver Thornbury Voice to our readers? We

Brothers Luke and Dan Davis

Got News? Call Richard 0n 01454 800 120

are need looking for people to help usThornbury with this important role. a once We someone to make sure Voice gets outIt’s every a monthYou commitment, so whether you are looking someand paid month. would be responsible for receiving thefor papers exercise or them extra to pocket money, we’d tobusinesses. hear from you. distributing our deliverers and like local YouYou will need your to beown reliable, as it’sand important the paper homes in the need transport, be available for agoes day to once a month. area every month. The minimum age for a round is 13 (with parental Interested? Email contact@thornburyvoice.co.uk permission) - there is no upper limit! Email contact@thornburyvoice.co.uk

Distributer needed Email: contact@thornburyvoice.co.uk We need someone to make sure Thornbury Voice gets out every month. You would be responsible for receiving the papers and

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