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August, 2019 Issue 29 FREE EVERY MONTH IN THORNBURY AND SURROUNDING VILLAGES
A celebration of Thornbury Hospital closure
THORNBURY Hospital will be empty by the end of the year, with remaining NHS services moving to a former charity shop in the town centre. PAGE 3
£100,000 for forest project
Thousands of people joined Thornbury’s carnival celebrations. More pictures: Page 8
Schools want to block path A PUBLIC footpath in Thornbury could be blocked to protect two schools from anti-social behaviour and vandalism. South Gloucestershire Council has received an application to stop up the public right of way which skirts the grounds of the Sheiling School and the Castle School. Thornbury’s secondary school and the neighbouring independent day and residential
school for children with special educational needs have made the application jointly, as the path, which runs between Park Road and the back of Victoria Close, gives access to both sites. Both schools have been hit by crime and antisocial behaviour, including several arson and vandal attacks on the Castle School last year. Turn to Page 6
A WOODLAND project near Thornbury which supports women in recovery from alcohol and drug abuse has been awarded £100,000 of lottery funding. PAGE 5
‘Intolerable’ noise from wedding venue
A WEDDING venue near Thornbury has been granted a licence extension, despite complaints from neighbours who claim noise from events makes their windows shake. PAGE 14
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August, 2019
n NEWS
Greenbelt homes master plan attacked THE choice of 12 sites to build many of the 105,000 homes planned for the region over the next 17 years have been attacked from all sides. The West of England Joint Spatial Plan or JSP has been put together by Bristol, South Gloucestershire, B&NES and North Somerset councils to be a blueprint for the development of the region until 2036. It is currently being examined at a series of public hearings in Bath. It includes 12 strategic development locations or SDLs, which will each have hundreds of new homes built on them. They include Buckover, near Thornbury, Charfield, Coalpit Heath, Thornbury itself and Yate. Builders Bloor Homes and Barratt Homes are calling for the housing target to be raised to 140,000, while campaigners from Thornbury Residents Against Poorly Planned Development (TRAPPD) say that the impact of the current target
could be “catastrophic”. Persimmon Homes barrister Thea Osmund-Smith said the four councils had failed to consider reasonable alternatives to the 12 SDLs and the plan’s sustainability assessment had “fundamental flaws” that could not be remedied. But barrister Suzanne Ornsby, for the four councils, said the plan was maximising urban living and more than half of the planned homes were in areas that no-one was trying to change. She said: “Everyone around the table is complaining that the assessment of SDLs is wrong because their sites aren’t in.” Miss Ornsby said that SDLs in the green belt were chosen only after councils had exhausted their hunt for brownfield sites – preferably close to the area of housing need – that would allow “sustainable” development. Councils had to prove there were “exceptional circumstances”
to justify building on the green belt. But Colin Gardner, from TRAPPD, told the inquiry the process as described smacked of “post-selection justification”. Bus company Stagecoach, said Thornbury and Buckover are two of five ‘strategic congestion development locations’ from new developments in the West of England will be would make it “practically severe.” impossible” to run a reliable The government examination bus service on certain key of the joint spatial plan took routes, and unless the MetroBus place during the first half of network is extended, the growing July, further hearings planned in communities in Thornbury September and October. and Yate would not be served A decision by inspectors on effectively by public transport. whether the plan is “sound” and Nick Small, from Stagecoach, legally compliant is not expected said: “The impact on passengers until the end of the year.
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August, 2019
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n NEWS
Hospital to shut by end of year as NHS services move to ex-charity shop THORNBURY Hospital will be empty by the end of the year under plans to relocate the last remaining health services to a former charity shop. Health bosses plan to move outpatient and community midwifery to the former Multiple Sclerosis People’s Help charity shop, pictured, in the St Mary Centre around November. The move will address fears that people would have to travel to Bristol for outpatient and midwife appointments. But concerns have been raised about the availability of car parking at the new location in the town’s main shopping centre. North Bristol NHS Trust said it does not need to consult the public about the move because the services are staying in Thornbury. The trust is currently in negotiations over the lease for the shop at 9 St Mary Street. Trust divisional operations director Karen Marshall said that once converted, the new premises will provide improved facilities for patients and better security for staff, with 24/7 CCTV in the area.
Thornbury’s cramped Victorian hospital has been deemed “no longer fit for purpose” and has been plagued by vandalism and intimidation towards staff – but does have its own car park, unlike the new premises in the St Mary Centre. Ms Marshall told South Gloucestershire Council’s health scrutiny committee that the new location was “accessible”, with a drop-off area, eight bus routes within walking distance, and free car parks nearby. But Thornbury ward Liberal Democrat councillor Shirley Holloway expressed surprise at the director’s “innocence” about the ease of finding a space in the Castle Court, Rock Street and St Mary’s Street car parks. She said: “At nine o’clock, the long stay car park is full and by 10 o’clock, it’s very difficult to find a space. Councillors are coming to our town council meetings late, because they just can’t find anywhere to park. People who are elderly are going to find it even more difficult.” Severn Vale ward Conservative councillor Matthew Riddle said people living in the villages around Thornbury have to drive in
because there’s “not much bus service”. Outpatient appointments for colorectal, gynaecology, respiratory and neurology, and community midwifery sessions will continue from Thornbury Hospital until winter, after which the site is set to be redeveloped. By Amanda Cameron, Local Democracy Reporting Service
Police warning on rogue roofers POLICE are warning residents to be on the lookout for rogue traders. Thornbury beat manager PC Paula Manos issued the warning after two reports of people claiming to be from a roofing company knocking on doors in the area and telling residents they had roof tiles missing. They then offered to do the work there and then for cash: a tactic which often leads to people being charged inflated bills for little work. There have also been reports of cold callers in Coalpit Heath telling residents they are ex-offenders and trying to sell them poor quality goods at the door. Residents are being reminded to be wary of tradesmen who cold call with deals, as it is unusual for them to need to cold call to drum up work, not allow any unknown and unexpected visitor inside, to ensure front and back doors are closed and locked if your attention is being diverted elsewhere, to ask for written cancellation rights before agreeing to work and to call the police if they are unhappy or feel intimidated.
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August, 2019
n NEWS
September deadline
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Cannabis worth £5,000 seized
Your views Letters for publication can be sent to us via email: contact@thornburyvoice.co.uk We reserve the right to edit your letter. Follow us on Twitter @thornburyvoice
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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
POLICE in Thornbury seized this cannabis after tip-off that dealing was taking place from an address in the town. Avon and Somerset police Thornbury beat manager PC Paula Manos said the drugs recovered had been tested by an expert within the force and had an estimated street value of £5,020. Details of the seizure, which was made in May by the town’s beat team, were released recently. A suspect is currently assisting police with their investigation. PC Manos said the cannabis had been destined for use in the town before it was seized.
Environment/trading standards 01454 868001 Police www.avonandsomersetpolice.uk general enquiries: 101 Fire www.avonfire.gov.uk General enquiries: 0117 926 2061 NHS Health Call 111 Well Aware health & social care information www.wellaware.org.uk Tel: (freephone) 0808 808 5252
PUBLISHER’S NOTE: Thornbury Voice is independent. We cannot take responsibility for content or accuracy of adverts, and it is advertisers’ responsibility to conform to all relevant legislation. We cannot vouch for any services offered. Opinions are not necessarily those of the editor. Thornbury Voice is distributed each month to local residents. If for some reason you do not get a copy, please get in touch or collect one from local pick-up points. Feedback is welcomed, call Richard On 01454 800 120 or contact@thornburyvoice.co.uk
Complaints Despite our best efforts, we sometimes get things wrong. We always try to resolve issues informally at first but we also have a formal complaints procedure. If you have a complaint about anything in the Thornbury Voice, contact the publisher using the details above. We aspire to follow the Code of Conduct of the NUJ (National Union of Journalists), which holds journalists to a high standard of behaviour. Further details of the complaints process can be found on the Voice website here, or can be obtained by contacting the Publisher.
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August, 2019
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n NEWS A WOODLAND project which supports women in recovery from alcohol and drug abuse has been awarded £100,000 by the national lottery. Run exclusively by women for women, the Hawthorn Project at Tortworth Forest Centre is the first of its kind in the country offering a safe space and support in the woods. Participants learn woodland skills like outdoor cooking, using tools, and plant, wildlife and birdsong identification – but there is also time for a cuppa and a chat around the fire. The initiative originally ran as a pilot for 18 months and the benefits were found to be transformative. It was set up by Bec Cork, who manages 18 acres of woodlands at Tortworth, and her friend Jackie Roby from the company Go Wild Education. Women reported improvements in their physical health, their self-esteem, and their relationships. Now women in recovery are referred by Bristol Drugs Project and Developing Health and Independence Bristol and South Glos. Bec said: “The women who come to The Hawthorn Project are there to learn about bushcraft and lighting fires, about trees and nature. We are not there to dwell on addiction or trauma but to focus on the future, healthy life choices, rekindling interests and rediscovering who they are and what they enjoy.” One woman recovering from alcohol addiction, who asked to be known as Roz, had not left her house for weeks when she first attended. She said: “I woke up that morning looking forward to something. It was exciting to get ready to go somewhere.
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Tortworth Forest Centre manager Bec Cork and Roz of the Hawthorn Project. “I’m always worrying, but when I come to the woods, I switch off my phone. I feel free.” Bec said: “One of the things Jackie and I feel very strongly about is that woodlands are portrayed on films as scary places, where women will be hacked to death by a scary man with an axe. So I really want to show that woods are for women, they are nurturing spaces and we’re allowed to do bushcraft, and it’s not about whose got the biggest knife. The forestry sector is very negatively gendered.” Bec and Jackie find that women start to show an interest in their surroundings, asking about books on wildlife, or whether they can get a qualification in forest skills. Bec said: “There’s one lady who wants to learn forestry – I’m
trying to find her a placement – there’s another lady who, through coming to the project regularly, has completely stopped drinking and has been able to reconnect with her family.” The funding from the National Lottery Community Fund will ensure the project runs for another four years, paying for three members of staff, a minibus, and training. The Hawthorn Project is only a small part of what goes on at Tortworth Arboretum. The Arboretum was left unmanaged for many years, and restoring the woodlands is a huge project under Bec’s management. A small team of volunteers has recently completed a one year project mapping all 610 trees, which was funded with £10,000 from the National
Lottery Heritage fund. Now the public will be asked via the Tortworth Forest Centre website to help choose which new trees should be planted. There are monthly volunteer days which are open to everyone, and various organisations use the woods regularly, including the Scouts, Adventures in Nature, who offer family camps, Go Wild Education who run forest school, and Honeywoods. Honeywoods is Bec’s own company offering women’s retreats where women pay what they can afford. On October 12 there will be a community tree planting day. For more information about Woodland women visit bit.ly/2XXQRyW online and for more information on the arboretum visit tortwortharboretum.org.
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n NEWS Path block bid From Page 1 SOUTH Gloucestershire Council is inviting people to comment on the plans by August 23, either online at bit.ly/2JJmcN2 or by calling 01454 868154. The council said: “In recent years both schools have suffered from incidents of antisocial behaviour, vandalism, and trespass on their sites. There have also been issues caused by dogs, which have not been controlled by owners, straying from the path and fouling the playing fields and school grounds. “These issues raise concerns about pupil safeguarding and both schools feel they could improve their site security if people were unable to gain access to their sites via the public footpath. “The current ease of access via the footpath poses risks to vulnerable people at The Sheiling School who need security, stability and routine."
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August, 2019
Staff strike over workload STAFF at Castle School held a one-day strike in a protest over “workload, safety and wellbeing”. Members of the National Education Union picketed the gates on July 9 and the school was closed to pupils. But planned further strike action was cancelled after “productive discussions” between the union and Castle School Educational Trust, which runs the school and several others in South Gloucestershire. In an open letter explaining their action, NEU members said: “We are committed and experienced members of staff who only want the best for our students and the school. “We are taking industrial action because we feel that our views are not being listened to and that we have been left with no other choice. “Over the last two years, we have raised concerns about behaviour getting out of control, workload increasing with no positive impact on students’ learning and the lack of regard for staff wellbeing. Some progress had been made in some areas but nowhere near enough to keep staff happy and secure.” The union said the dispute centred around
“unmanageable workload” for staff, adding: “Tired and overworked staff have less time for students in need, less time to plan the best lessons, less time to support other tired and overworked colleagues and next to no time to enrich students’ learning by organising trips and so on. We appreciate that cuts to funding have played a part but firmly believe that senior leadership have not taken our concerns seriously enough.” Head teacher Will Roberts said the school had had “little choice” but to close to pupils, as 88 members of staff, mainly teachers, were NEU members. In a letter sent to parents, he said the trust recognised that teacher workload was an issue nationally but said: “The current workload settlement for staff at The Castle is already more favourable than for colleagues at many other schools.” Two days after the strike Mr Roberts issued a statement to parents, which said that there had been “productive discussions” with union and the next strikes had been called off. Pupils’ space project: Page 20
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Join our team We look after adults and children at home, and at school and provide residential and nursing care. We are NHS and Local Authority funded with hundreds of our staff working across South Gloucestershire, parts of Bristol and Bath and North East Somerset. We are always on the lookout for great people and this is an opportunity for you to find out what is available, clinical and non-clinical. Flexible working patterns will always be considered (so long as our services can support your requests). Equally, we have a proactive Bank Team. We offer a wide range of benefits and Agenda for Change terms & conditions for some of our roles. Please submit a short supporting statement or CV as your application via recruitment@sirona-cic.org.uk, call us on 0300 124 5444 or take a look at our current vacancies here www.sironacic.org.uk/work-with-us/ You can also find us on Facebook @SironaCIC or on Twitter @SironaJobs We look forward to hearing from you
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August, 2019
n NEWS JUDGES have been in town examining Thornbury in Bloom’s floral displays. Royal Horticultural Society South West in Bloom competition judges Richard Budge, from Truro, and Jim Collins, from Newton Abbot, spent three hours in the town on a tour of various sites where volunteers have worked for months to give the town displays to be proud of. They were taken to Crossways School, the Butterfly Bank and Morton Bridge Wildflower Meadow, the Anchor pub, Rock Street Gardens, the community garden behind Turnberries, the Ring of Thorns by Tesco, the community composting site by the leisure centre, and Daggs allotments. They also saw the blooms in the High Street and Castle Street. The Swan pub provided a buffet lunch for the people from the many different voluntary groups which help Thornbury in Bloom, and for staff from the town council and South Gloucestershire Council. The judges were said to be ‘very impressed’, particularly by the efforts made by the whole community working together for this year’s entry. The results of the Britain In Bloom competition will be announced in October. Thornbury in Bloom has regularly won Gold and Best Town awards, and organisers are hoping for success once again.
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Blooms at their best on town’s judgment day
Judges and Thornbury in Bloom volunteers inspect the town’s displays. Picture: John Brimacombe
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August, 2019
‘Fabulous’ atmosphere at Thornbury Carnival ORGANISERS are already planning the 2020 Thornbury Carnival – but they will have a job to top this year’s event. Thousands of people enjoyed the colourful parade through the town’s streets and festival atmosphere at Mundy Fields on July 6. Community groups were joined by street entertainers, bands and vintage vehicles. This year’s sports theme brought together clubs from across the area and gave people the chance to have a go at something new.
Carnival committee and Thornbury Rugby Club member Lindsay Kibbey said: “The carnival is one of those things that sums up the spirit of Thornbury – it’s great to have the opportunity to share my sport with people who may not normally think about getting involved. The Sports Arena was constantly full of different things going on that people could sample for free – I think my favourite was when we tried to get a mass participation in some outdoor yoga!” The idea of having different
zones or areas for different activities was new this year. There was a children’s zone, classic vehicles in the Old Down Country Park Arena and craft stalls, community groups and small traders in the main field. Music included evening performances from Abba’s Angels and an Adele tribute act. Carnival chair Paul Caddick said: “This was a fantastic year. The weather really helped create a fabulous atmosphere and everyone seemed to have a great time. We are only a small committee that make
this event happen and we are always grateful to the community groups and people of Thornbury who help make it a success. “We have already started thinking about next year and we have some thoughts to build on the changes we made this year; however, we would really appreciate people taking the time to complete our survey on our Facebook page to help us try and get it right.” Anyone who takes part in the survey has the chance of winning a £25 voucher for the Swan, The Wheatsheaf or Surroundings.
All pictures by official carnival photographers from Thornbury Camera Club
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August, 2019
n NEWS A THORNBURY out-of-school club has been praised by an inspector from the education watchdog. Ofsted visited Gillingstool Out Of School Experience, better known as GOOSE, for its first full inspection since 2015. And the club, based at Thornbury Baptist Church, Gillingstool, has retained its ‘Good’ rating. GOOSE offers before and after-school childcare to children aged from 4 to 11. It has 24 places each day, with currently 30 children attending. The inspection assessed three areas: leadership and management; teaching learning and assessment; personal development, behaviour and welfare and said GOOSE was good in all three. Inspector Rachael Williams said children enjoyed their time at GOOSE and engaged in a variety of activities, with a wide range of resources. They enjoyed sharing books, were encouraged to take turns in conversations and respect each other’s ideas.
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A good report for GOOSE
Playworker Jackie Miles with children attending GOOSE It was noted that since the last inspection outdoor play opportunities had improved. The inspector observed children building a track for their toy cars and said: “Staff help them to extend their designs and challenge their thinking, for example, how they can make their cars flip.” She recorded how younger children listened to the older children and valued their ideas, for example in taking hints on how to better play table football.
The report acknowledged that children are encouraged to contribute to community events, for example by making knitted blankets for elderly people and donating to a food bank. Safeguarding was found to be effective, with staff having a good understanding of their responsibilities. The inspector noted that there was “good liaison” with the nearby primary school to ensure consistency in meeting children’s development needs.
She added: “Staff gather information from parents when children start, so they can provide activities that meet their interests. Staff keep parents well informed about club activities, both verbally and electronically.” Katherine Holmes, who runs GOOSE, said: “Since opening in 2012 I have had the pleasure of working with the children from Gillingstool Primary School. “September this year marks the first children that have reached year 6 since coming to GOOSE from the start of reception.” She said one of the children's favourite activities was using soft play equipment, pictured. Katherine added: “The other firm favourite is Hama beads; the record so far is a tiger that was created using 12 boards.” GOOSE is open from Monday to Friday from 7.30am-9am and from 3.15pm to 6pm in school term time.
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We Help people to live active, healthier, happier lives The move it or lose it programme of exercises are scientifically proven to improve muscle strength leading to better balance to reduce falls risk. This can help older adults to enjoy the activities they always loved and stay physically active which is so important to health. We are currently running group sessions around South Glos with the First one being at Turnberries Community Centre, Bath Road Thornbury bs35 2bb which will run every Monday at 10am. Please contact Shelley for information regarding other venues We also come to you on a 1-1 basis in the comfort of your own home The programme is accessible to all whether you are seated, standing with support or able to stand without support, its purposeful movement your way. On Group sessions the first one is always free
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August, 2019
n NEWS
Suspended sentence after disposal man dumped waste in country lanes A ROGUE waste disposal man who dumped rubbish in country lanes after he had been paid to dispose of it has been given a suspended jail sentence. John Hegarty, formerly of Fox Avenue in Yate, pleaded guilty to three fly-tipping charges at Bristol Crown Court after a lengthy and complex investigation by South Gloucestershire Council’s environmental protection team. The 28-year-old dumped waste at Woodend Lane in Rockhampton, pictured, Lodge Road in Abson and Ham Lane, Doynton, after being paid up to £150 a time to dispose of it. Between August 2017 and November last year he ran a business known as Ever Green Tree & Gardening Services and Rubbish Removal, attracting work through coldcalling and delivering leaflets. The investigation found that in Hegarty was paid £140 to collect waste from a restaurant that was being refurbished in Calne in Wiltshire in August 2017. The waste was later found dumped in Abson and
Doynton. The second incident saw Hegarty paid £150 to collect household waste in Bristol which was later found in Woodend Lane, Rockhampton. He was interviewed under caution in February and admitted the offences. Hegarty, now living in Wales, was given a nine-month suspended jail sentence, a four month curfew and ordered to pay £950 on July 16. Council cabinet member for communities Rachael Hunt said: “Our zero-tolerance
approach to fly-tipping in South Gloucestershire means that anyone who fly-tips here is up to five times more likely to be prosecuted than anywhere else in the country. We want people to realise that fly-tipping really isn’t worth the risk and to dispose of their waste in a responsible manner. “I encourage anyone who has information in relation to instances of fly-tipping in South Gloucestershire to get in touch with our Envirocrime team who will investigate the matter further.” Residents and businesses are advised to only give their rubbish to an Environment Agency-registered waste carrier, who will have a certificate they can show. The council has urged people to avoid offers of cheap waste clearance on sites such as Facebook and Gumtree unless they are registered with the Environment Agency. Fly-tipping can be reported online at www.southglos.gov.uk/flytipping, by email at streetcare@southglos.gov.uk or calling the Street Care helpdesk on 01454 868000.
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August, 2019
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n NEWS
School musical leaves audience wanting more MEMBERS of the audience who watched the end of year production of the musical Oliver! at Marlwood school said they were ‘blown away’ by the talent of the pupils taking part. Parents also praised the professionalism of the show, staged before the end of term at the Alveston secondary school.
The stage stretched right through the centre of the school hall, so that the cast could move around and the audience felt really engaged. The famous songs from Lionel Bart’s musical – based on the classic Charles Dickens novel – were brought to life by the
young people in the lead roles of Fagin, Nancy, Oliver, the Artful Dodger, Bill Skyes and Mr Bumble, supported by a cast of pupils playing the urchins who danced and sang. Ben Humphries led the musicians and Becky Ferguson was the producer.
Members of the cast of Marlwood School’s production of Oliver! Pictures by Imogen Roberts
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August, 2019
n NEWS
Fundraising is start of Lee’s legacy THE family of a boy who lost his life to cancer at the age of eight have announced details of a fundraising event in his memory. Lee Belgium, pictured, was originally from Thornbury but was living in Lyde Green at the time of his death in April. Lee’s family are setting up a charity in his memory called Lee Belgium’s Lasting Legacy. They have organised a fundraiser at a South Gloucestershire pub as they work to establish the charity, which can raise up to £5,000 before it is officially registered and given a charity number. Mum Clare Boxall said she wanted to keep Lee’s name “alive forever” and to benefit other children. She said: “My poor boy is no longer here, and my life has changed for ever. “I know he would want me to help families that have gone through the same: kids who have
cancer and heart operations, kids that die from horrible accidents and their family need memories. We want to help with some of the cost of funeral flowers and a haircut to look their best on their day.” The fundraiser will be held at the Live and Let Live pub in
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Frampton Cotterell, on Saturday August 31 from 3pm, with a barbecue, raffle, face paints, fancy dress, cake stall, auction and evening karaoke. Clare said Lee had managed to beat cancer three times before the disease returned in August last year.
The family managed to raise £80,000 in four months for Lee to have a treatment trial and bone marrow transplant in Turkey, but then he got an infection which he could not survive. She said: “Lee Belgium was my beautiful son, who was so strong and had so much fight in him. “Lee never showed any weakness, he’s my superhero and the bravest boy ever. “On 6th April my angel passed away with a horrible mucor fungus infection. He tried to kick it for a month, but we got told no one makes it out alive with this, it’s what they call the black death.” A new Facebook group set up to support the charity and carrying its name already has over 3,000 members and Clare hopes it will help to generate funds to help other families in a similar situation.
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thornburyvoice
August, 2019
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n NEWS
Appeal after assault POLICE are trying to identify two men in connection with an assault on Thornbury High Street. The victim of the assault was left with a fractured cheek bone. Avon and Somerset police has released CCTV images from the St Mary’s Shopping Centre of two men officers want to question over the incident, which happened on March 17 at 2am. A police spokesperson said: “Do you recognise these men? We would like your help to identify them as we would like to speak to them. We believe they might have important information which could help with our investigation. “We would like to hear from anyone who was in the area at the time or can help with the CCTV images.” Anyone with information should call 101 and quote the crime reference number 5219 057 443.
New mayor will do her best for Thornbury THORNBURY’S new mayor Angela Symons says she is "delighted and honoured" to take on the role for the next year and has promised to “do my very best for the Town and its people”. Her appointment comes following the local elections in May, when a new council was elected, and Angela will also be the council chairman. Jayne Stansfield is the new deputy mayor and council vicechairman. The mayor has expressed an interest in supporting youth services and also in helping to bring additional infrastructure to Thornbury to support the hundreds of new homes being built. Angela was nominated by councillor Claire Fardell, who said: “Angela is always willing to give help when asked, and I know that she will work very hard for Thornbury as our town mayor.” Claire added that Angela is well-known and respected locally after many years as a nurse in the community. Outgoing mayor Shirley Holloway thanked councillors for their support and the people of Thornbury for welcoming her.
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Your Local Business IT Specialists Orchard Computer Services Melford House 6 Oaklands Business Park Armstrong Way, Yate, Bristol BS37 5NA
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thornburyvoice
n NEWS
Lions’ help for carers THORNBURY Lions will focus on helping local organisations which care for people with disabilities during the club’s 32nd year. The group plans to support both the New Siblands schools, the two memory cafes which help people with dementia, Thornbury Stroke Support and charity Jigsaw, for families of children with additional needs and disabilities. Outgoing president Keith Townsend thanked fellow Lions for their support during his successful year in office before handing over to Pete Fish at the club’s annual changeover lunch at the Anchor Inn in Oldbury. Thornbury Lions meet on the second Tuesday of the month at the Chantry in Castle Street. New members are always welcome. For more information contact membership secretary Colin Evans on 01454 414271 or visit the bookshop in the St Mary Centre.
August, 2019
New licence despite venue’s ‘intolerable’ noise A WEDDING venue near Thornbury has been granted a licence extension, despite complaints from neighbours who claim noise from events is already “intolerable”. Old Down Estate in Tockington has been hosting weddings and events since 2010, under a licence allowing alcohol sales and music in the manor house and immediate surrounding area. That licence has now been extended to include a large neighbouring field, known as the Festival Field, within the 66-acre estate, which is owned by millionaire businessman Arron Banks and his wife Ekaterina. An agent for the couple submitted the licence application and said that, other than weddings, the estate holds “occasional” events, mainly over summer. But a South Gloucestershire Council licensing committee on July 16 heard that a dozen Tockington residents had objected to the application, fearing the extension would worsen what one called “intolerable” noise from music and fireworks that “rolls down the hillside” during events. Villagers claimed the noise was so loud at times that it woke sleeping children, “terrified” farm animals, caused windows to vibrate and a pet dog to “shake”. But committee members were told that the council had not received any formal complaints about the estate in the past three years and decided that the terms of its new licence would prevent the noise from events becoming a public nuisance. The committee heard that very loud fireworks were set off during a private party last December, but the company involved had been told not to sue fireworks sand had now been been banned from the venue. The licence says fireworks cannot be any louder than 120 decibels, and all outdoor live and recorded music must stop by 11pm. The licence terms also included a stipulation that “there shall be no painting of body parts that expose genitals or female breasts where those body parts may be exposed to children”. No oxygen bars, shisha or hookah tobacco bars are permitted. A building in the estate grounds, Foxholes Barn, will be the new wedding and events area. Lauren Lever, the estate’s head of operations, told the committee that, other than weddings, Old Down Estate holds around half a dozen events a year. These include events such as a garden party or county fair, openair cinema, and fireworks on bonfire night in November. Ms Lever said the estate usually hosts up to about 750 people at a time, and that most functions finish by 9pm.
Assault on girl in park POLICE are appealing for witnesses to an incident in which a teenage girl was hit over the head in a Thornbury park. Officers were called to reports of an altercation between a man and a group of girls at about 10.30pm on July 4 in Streamleaze Park, after fireworks were allegedly set off. Avon and Somerset police said the man hit one of the girls with what appeared to be a torch, causing a cut to her head, before the girls ran into Dovedale. An ambulance was called and the girl needed hospital treatment. Police say their enquiries into the incident are continuing and anyone with information should call 101, quoting crime reference number 5219 160 792.
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Email: contact@thornburyvoice.co.uk
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August, 2019
15
n THORNBURY CLINIC
Staying fit over 50
Megan Miller-Zutshi is the Lead Physiotherapist at the Thornbury clinic. With 12 years’ experience working in private practice, professional sports teams and with youth athletes, Megan has a wealth of experience treating a wide variety of problems using multiple techniques, including manual therapy, acupuncture, exercise, taping and massage. WE all know the importance of exercising throughout our lives to maintain and improve our health. However, you may not be aware that exercise becomes even more important as we get older. The good news is that it’s never too late to start! So why is exercise so important? There is now an increasing amount of strong evidence that shows that people who are active have a lower risk of developing a number of chronic conditions. There is also evidence to suggest that regular exercise can reduce the risk of falls as we get older (NHS 2018). There are a great many ways in which regular exercise can help us both physically and mentally: Improve/maintain cardiovascular
health – reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease by 35%. Reduce risk of Type 2 diabetes – by up to 40%. Improve/maintain strength – helping to reduce additional loading through the joints and allowing daily activities to be performed without difficulty. Improve/maintain flexibility – movement in and around the joints is important in reducing pain associated with age-related bone changes (osteoarthritis) and maintaining general mobility. Maintain bone density – regular resistance training can help to delay osteoporosis. Improve mental health – exercise has a range of cognitive benefits and has been shown to reduce anxiety and depression, and improve sleep. Help to reduce dementia – some studies have suggested that exercise may help to reduce the incidence of dementia. Assist weight loss – exercise helps to burn calories and, along with a healthy diet, can help maintain or achieve a healthy weight and prevent a number of chronic diseases.
guidelines for adults aged 19 to 64 recommend at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity (cycling or brisk walking) every week, and two or more days of strength training, working all the major muscle groups. Or you could do 75 minutes of vigorous aerobic exercise (running or singles tennis) every week, and two or more days of strength training. Alternatively, try a mixture of moderate and vigorous aerobic exercise, equating to 150 minutes every week, and two or more days of strength training. Over the age of 65 the recommendations are the same if you are already fit and active, with no underlying health problems. If you started exercising a little later in life or have any health problems, the recommendations are 150 minutes of moderate aerobic exercise alongside some strengthening exercises. It is also important to do activities or exercises that train our balance
Alongside these physical and mental benefits, regular exercise in later years can also help to prevent falls, increase confidence and maintain hobbies and social connections, all of which contribute to a better quality of life and bring an additional 3-5 years life expectancy.
4 Castle Street, Thornbury, Bristol BS35 1HB
Facilitating Recovery, Preventing Injury
What exercise should I do? Physical activity is anything that raises your heart rate. Current NHS
Treatments we offer include: Sports injury treatment Injury assessment & treatment Sports massage • Relaxation massage Pregancy massage • Clinical Psychology
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and co-ordination and flexibility, such as yoga, tai chi, dancing and pilates. As everyone is unique, everyone’s bodies have different needs and respond differently to activity. If you are struggling to find the right sort of exercise for you, pick activities that you enjoy doing because, above all, exercise should be fun! For further help and advice regarding exercise or the issues mentioned in this article, the team at the Thornbury Clinic are always on hand to provide help and support in the form of physiotherapy, sports injury therapy, McTimoney chiropractic and massage. We are also holding a free talk at Thornbury Active Lifestyle Centre on Tuesday August 27 at 7pm, where we will be addressing the benefits of staying fit over 50 in more detail. To book onto this talk, simply call us on 01454 838366 to reserve a free place.
17/05/2019 14:34
info@thethornburyclinic.co.uk www.thethornburyclinic.co.uk
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August, 2019
n STROUD AUCTION ROOMS
Stamps, dogs and rock’n’roll at auction house STROUD Auctions’ July sale got the stamp of approval from buyers when all things philatelic went under the hammer. Seven lots of stamps, postal history and albums made the list of top-sellers: a collection of 1854-1902 Indian Convention and Feudatory States took pride of place, going under the hammer for £3,600. The New Ideal Stamp Album volume 1, British Empire 1840-1936 – an extensive collection of mint and used stamps including a number of high values – made £2,600, and a very extensive collection of GB stamps from 1840-2014, in six large Stanley Gibbons GB stockbooks, sold for £1,150. Other high selling lots in auctioneer David Lord's specialist section included a ring binder album of Great Britain stamps 1870-87 on Hagner sheets (£900); an extensive collection of QEII Commonwealth stamps (£800); a ring binder album of Great Britain stamps 1901-35 on Hagner sheets, and a stock card of Chinese treaty port stamps each made £600. Auctioneer Nick Bowkett's
mantra of 'quality sells' was evident once again, as a Royal Worcester pair of two-handled covered vases, decorated with Highland cattle in moorland landscape and signed James Stinton, sold for £2,300. A much-admired Goldscheider Art Nouveau figural lamp in the form of Eve reaching up into an apple tree, with impressed signature of F Goss, made £1,000. A Geoffrey Baxter for Whitefriars banjo vase in kingfisher blue, with original
pattern label to base, was snapped up for £600. In the music section, three USA-made electric basses were the highlights – a 1976 USA-made Fender Jazz went for £1,000, a Fender Precision made £550 and a Gibson Ripper also made £550. A collection of around 120 vinyl albums, including Neil Young, Queen and the Beatles, sold for £550. There was great interest in
a bound volume of 20 coloured engravings of the Great Exhibition of 1851; and set of five Victorian architectural drawings of Tower Bridge, London, dated April 1889, each of which sold for £550. Finally, man's best friend also gets a mention on the top lots list, with a charming oil-on-canvas by Edward Armfield (1817-1893) of Springer Spaniels with a basket of game birds, pictured, selling for £500. The July auction was another very busy and outstandingly popular sale. The next will be on August 7 and 8, when the spotlight will be guns and weapons, medals and militaria, toys, scientific instruments, weights and scales, cameras and binoculars. Viewing will be on Tuesday, August 6 from 10am-7pm and from 9am on sale days. For information about any aspect of buying or selling with Stroud Auction Rooms ring 01453 873800, email info@stroudauctions. com or visit the website www. stroudauctions.co.uk.
STROUD AUCTION ROOMS Entries now invited for our upcoming auction on
September 11th , 12th & 13th Including specialist sections of jewellery, silver, watches, clocks, coins & textiles
Jewellery
Wristwatches
Silver
Contact Alexandra Bowkett (DGA, FGA) Contact Mark Rozelaar Contact Stuart Maule Georgian/Victorian micro mosaic A Victorian brooch set Charles II 17th century International Watch Company with a sapphire surrounded plaque depicting a dove hallmarked silver IWC British military issue stainless by diamonds. Sold for £6000 charger. Sold for £4000 steel wristwatch. Sold for £3,800 Sold for £16,000 FREE valuations every Friday (9am-5pm) & Saturday (9am-12:30pm) at our saleroom, at your home by appointment or why not email us a photograph for an instant valuation to info@stroudauctions.com We are currently ranked no 1 in the country for the number of online bidders
Unit J, Bath Road Trading Estate, Stroud, GL5 3QF
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01453 873800 www.stroudauctions.co.uk
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August, 2019
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n WHAT'S ON IN OUR AREA July 28 n Sunday Afternoon Concert at St Mary's Church Thornbury, 4pm. Organ recital by the director of music in residence, Malcolm Kittle. Malcolm began his career as an organist when just 14 years old and has studied at Canterbury Cathedral and Oriel College Oxford, where he was a choral scholar. Varied programme of music followed by tea. Everybody welcome. August 2 n Haven Memory Cafe, Thornbury United Reformed Church, Chapel Street, 10.15-11.45am. Washday Blues, with Reg King. August 4 n National Garden Scheme opening: Jekka's Herbetum, Shellards Lane, Alveston, 10am4pm. Entry costs £5 for adults, children free. Described as “a living encyclopaedia of herbs, displaying
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the largest collection of culinary herbs in Europe”, Jekka’s Herbetum provides a resource for plant identification for the gardener and a gastronomic experience for chefs and cooks. Homemade cream teas served. Wheelchair access possible, although terrain is rough from car park to Herbetum. August 10 n Thornbury Horticultural Society annual Summer Show, 2pm, Armstrong Hall. Classes for vegetables, flowers, pot plants, floral art, photography, cooking, crafts and children’s classes. Tea and cakes available. Show schedules available from the Garden Shop, T & J Owens and town hall. August 13 n Alveston Methodist Church, 7.30pm. Viola and piano recital: Brahms, Glinka and Britten. Entry Free. Retiring collection. August 16 n Haven Memory Cafe, Thornbury United Reformed Church, Chapel Street, 10.15-11.45am. Desert Island Discs, with Mario Sidoli. August 20 n British Lung Foundation South Gloucestershire Support Group Yate meeting from 2.15pm to 3.15pm, at the Armadillo Cafe, behind the Sports Centre and opposite Morrison’s in Yate. Speaker from Sirona. For further information please contact Christine on 0797 363 7273. August 25 n Festival Players International present Much Ado About Nothing at The Chantry, 52 Castle Street, at 2.30pm. Outdoor performance,
gardens open at 1.30pm. Tickets £12 for adults, £7 for children, £28 for family of four with children under 16. Enquiries call 01454 414268 or email office@thechantry. org.uk. September 2 n The Royal Osteoporosis Society Bristol Support Group will be meeting at 1.45pm in the Methodist Church Hall, Westburyon-Trym, with a talk by Terrie Stocker, Osteoporosis Nurse Specialist from the BRI. Everyone is welcome. For more information call 07710 743613. September 6 n Thornbury and District fundraising committee of Cancer Research UK hosts a quiz at Marlwood School (Drama Hall), Vattingstone Lane, Alveston, starting at 7.30pm. Cost £10 per person, maximum team size of six people. Table buffet, licensed bar and raffle in aid of the charity. For tickets or more information call Tony Flintoff on 07707 159645. September 14 n Roll Over Beethoven at Cossham Hall, Thornbury, 7.30pm: Michael Lunts presents a humorous and irreverent look at classical music with his usual combination of musical expertise and good humour, exploring the boundaries between classical music and comedy as exemplified by Flanders and Swann, Joyce Grenfell, Dudley Moore and Gilbert and Sullivan. For more details call 01454 412272. September 28 n Refuse Reuse Recycle Reduce Replace, St Mary’s Church Olveston, 9.30am-12.30pm. Mike Wildman from Suez will explain what
happens to doorstep collections. Bring along any item for an explanation about how it can be recycled. Prize competition for the most novel model made entirely of recyclable materials, up to half a square metre maximum in size. Refreshments available.
REGULAR EVENTS
Monday n Armstrong Hall Cossham Hall World Dance 7-10pm n Belly Dance classes Beginners 7.00pm, Improvers 8.00pm, Methodist Church Hall (upstairs) with Anna 07971234236 or bristolbellydance@yahoo.co.uk term time only
n Yoga for beginners at Armstrong Hall, 6:30-8pm on Mondays. £6. All kit provided. Contact Moira 07703 536700 Tuesday n 11.00 am - 1.30 pm Armstrong Hall - Excell Room Recycled Teenagers Lunch Club n Sunbeams toddler and parent group Thornbury Methodist church hall Every Tuesday 1.15pm to 2.45pm in term time Time and space to share themed activities with your children ( 0 to 4 years) Contact janet_mann@ hotmail.com or margaretcrocombe60@gmail. com
What's on at Thornbury Library Opening times Staffed Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday, 9.30am to 5.30pm. Saturday, 9.30am to 12.30pm. Open access seven days a week between 8am and 7.30pm. Summer Reading Challenge: Space Chase Runs until Saturday September 14. Come and join in with the summer reading challenge. A chance to gain rewards for reading throughout the summer. This month there are spacethemed activities happening in the library:
Alien Invasion on August 5 from 10.30am-noon, Space Explorers on August 12 from 10.30am-noon and Space Junk on August 19 from 10.30am-noon. Space-themed Lego club on August 9, 10.30am-11.30am. Storytime and Rhymetime for pre-schoolers, babies and toddlers (term time only): Storytime starts again on September 2 and Rhymetime starts again on September 6 (no sessions in August). Craft Group and Repair Café: Thursday August 1, 2pm-4pm.
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New members will always be made welcome by this friendly group. Share tips and ideas for your knitting, sewing or crochet projects. Bring your small items of clothing or soft furnishings for repair. Refreshments provided Computer Support Volunteers: Please speak to a member of staff for dates and times. Vision West of England: Thursday August 1, 10.30am12.30pm. Support and advice for visually impaired people. Carers' back to work support: Wednesday August 7, 9.30-11am.
Are you a carer who would like to get back to work? Get some advice and support specifically for you free from the Carers Support Centre. For more information on any of the above please contact us: Telephone 01454 868006, email thornbury.library@southglos.gov. uk or visit our website to find out more: www.southglos.gov.uk/ libraries. Find us on Facebook at South Gloucestershire Libraries or @ SouthGlosLibs on Twitter.
Email: contact@thornburyvoice.co.uk
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n WHAT’S ON IN OUR AREA n Get Singing. A community choir for anyone who loves singing. All abilities welcome. See www.getsinging.co.uk for more information. Turnberries, Thornbury. Tuesday 7.30 - 9.00pm (term time only). n Thornbirds, Thornbury W.I. meet on the third Tuesday of every month, 7.30pm at the Methodist Church Hall, Thornbury. We are a friendly group offering a range of speakers over the year as well as well as a variety of social activities. Visitors are always welcome so why not come along and find out about our programme for 2019. Wednesday n 2.00 pm Armstrong Hall Cossham Hall Tea Dance 01454 412060 n 2.00 pm. Armstrong Hall, Committee Room Lip Reading Classes n Growing Ideas Garden Club meets at 7.30pm on the first Wednesday of the month from September to June (with a break at Christmas) in the Watkins Room in the Old Grammar School Rooms, Chipping Sodbury. Annual Subs are £15.00 and visitors pay £3. We are a friendly club and by no means all expert gardeners. We enjoy sharing what knowledge we do have and welcome visitors to any of our meetings. For more information come to a meeting or phone Naomi Gathercole on 01454 314476. n Support your Self-Care with Monthly Maintenance Shiatsu Clinic in Iron Acton every Wednesday between 3-8 pm. Naturally restore your energy levels and improve your overall health
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and lifestyle for just £35 per month. Contact Anna on 07487 511516 or email anna@wholehearted-health. co.uk for more information and to book your 1-1 treatment session. n Torn Paper Collage for Wellbeing: Turnberries Thornbury Wednesdays12.30-2.30pm. For more information or to reserve a place on these courses or other courses available throughout South Gloucestershire Please contact Jane Thomas, Community Learning Development Worker Tel: 07860 181352 Mob: 01454 864687 Email: jane.thomas2@southglos. gov.uk n South Glos Aspies, a weekly pub social for adults on the autistic spectrum, meets from 7-11pm at the Malthouse, Thornbury High Street. Friends and family of those on the spectrum are also more than welcome. Board games, skittles, darts, informal conversation and outdoor activities, weather permitting. More information from robert@ southglosaspies.org.uk, george@ southglosaspies.org.uk or at www. southglosaspies.org.uk. n Thornbury & District Townswomen's Guild meets on the second Wednesday of the month at Turnberries at 7.30pm. Varied programme of events and speakers. Pay a visit and perhaps join to celebrate 60 years of TG in Thornbury.
August, 2019
rehearse at the dance studio, Fairfield High School, Allfoxton Road, Bristol BS7 9NL. Every Thursday evening 7.30pm 9.45pm. Tel: Mary 07954170532. n Stokes Singers, a mixed voice community choir meet every Thursday during term time at Coniston Community Centre, Patchway BS34 5LP from 7.30 to 9.30pm. New members are welcome to try their first 2 rehearsals free of charge. For more information go to www. stokessingers.org.uk or phone Membership Secretary Liz on 01454 614148 n Scrapbooking for Wellbeing. Turnberries in Thornbury. Thursdays 12.30pm-2.30pm. n South Gloucestershire Arts Appreciation Society meet at Bradley Stoke Community School, Fiddlers Lane, Bradley Stoke, 3rd Thursday evening of the month. Starting October at 7.00 for 7.30 start. Refreshments provided. Contact: Sallykitching@ googlemail.com Tel. 01454 774401 n Royal British Legion monthly meeting point – coffee and a chat for Armed forces veterans, personnel and families at Hawkes House, St Mary Street, Thornbury. RBL volunteers, together with other organisations will be on hand to offer support and advice to those who need help. Second Thursday of the month, 9.3011.30am.
Thursday n 8.00 pm. Armstrong Hall Ceroc Dance n Avon Harmony are a Ladies A Cappella / barbershop chorus. We welcome visitors for a no obligation taster session. We
Friday n 2.00 pm. Armstrong Hall Committee Room Canasta Club n Folk Companions meet 7.45pm9.15 pm, term time only, at The
Chantry, Thornbury. Call 01454 414952 or email iain.d.gray@ btinternet.com for more details. n 1.30pm Zumba Gold at Thornbury Leisure Centre n Weekly Hatha Yoga, The Chantry, Fridays 1.30-2.30pm. Improve strength, balance, flexibility, health and wellbeing through this transformational and healing practice. Drop-in basis, £8 (£6 concession) All Welcome. There's no need to be bendy! Contact Selina flourish@ selinaratcliffe.com Saturday n Thornbury parkrun is a free, weekly, 5km run or walk, organised entirely by volunteers and taking place every Saturday at 9am on the Mundy Playing Fields. Register once, print your barcode and just turn up. See www.parkrun.org.uk/ thornbury Sunday n Thornbury Ramblers walk. See www.thornburyramblers.org.uk for details, or ring 01454 413924 n The Alternative Sunday Lunch, Butchers Hook, High Street We provide a smorgasbord of food and ask others to bring in homemade/homegrown contributions to share out with everyone in an informal, open-table style Sunday lunch. Suggested donation of £6 per person with all profits to charity. Every Sunday 1pm.
Goodbye, Auntie Jenny THE leader of a Thornbury pre-school has retired after nearly 27 years’ service. Jenny Harris is known as “Auntie Jenny” to the thousands of children she has successfully guided through their start in Early Years education at First Steps Pre-school at Christ the King School in the town. Jenny is often recognised as she walks through Thornbury, not only by children but also by adults who have grown up and pursued careers. A presentation at the pre school was held for Jenny, pictured in the blue top and white trousers, to celebrate her retirement. Parents and pupils new and old came to congratulate Jenny, who many said will be sorely missed. Jenny has maintained three consecutive ‘outstanding’ classifications with Ofsted, the only pre-school to have done so in South Gloucestershire. She thanked her team – Karen, Vicky, Georgi, and Marie – for their vital role in the success of the setting.
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August, 2019
n NEWS A THORNBURY school went back to the 60s to celebrate its 50th birthday. Children at Manorbrook Primary School in Park Road experienced aspects of life in the 1960’s, while former pupils came back for an anniversary celebration. The events aimed to develop the children’s interest in the past and inspire them by sharing the achievements of former pupils. Pupils found out about the Apollo 11 moon landing and built and launched rockets, as well as the very first flight of Concorde, including making balloonpowered planes. The youngsters also learnt about fashions and music, performing a dance to the Foundations’ song Build Me Up Buttercup. One class had a picnic with food from the era – everything from upside down pineapple cake to cheese and pineapple sticks – which they made themselves. They also learnt how to play games with marbles. Year 2 teacher Jodie Haines said: “It went down in history as one of my favourite days of teaching. “It was great to look back at what life was like in the 60s. The children laughed at the fashions and wanted to play with the toys which were inspired by the moon landing. “What the children loved the most was working in teams to create their 1960s picnic – as well as eating it while playing traditional 60s games.” Staff used social media to get in touch with dozens of former pupils through social media, who now live all over the world and
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Back in time to celebrate 50 years of school
Former pupils at Manorbrook Primary School's 50th anniversary celebrations are employed in a wide range of jobs. The children marked where they live on a map which was displayed in the school’s entrance. The former pupils were invited to a summer fair with a 1960’s theme. Many of those who stayed in the area now have children and grandchildren of their own at the school. Among those attending was one of the school’s first ever pupils, who said: “I’m still in regular contact with some of my oldest friends from Manorbrook, which shows how special the friendships are from our early
days at your school.” Later the school’s Year 3 and 4 pupils staged a play to
celebrate the school’s 50 years, recreating some of the most significant events of 1969.
Sophia Pearce, Micah Silverthorn, Roxie Downs and Sam Forsey find out where in the world former pupils have moved to.
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n NEWS MEMBERS of a Thornbury school’s science club have sent their experiments out into space. Pupils involved in Castle School’s Key Stage 3 Science Club designed the experiments themselves before they were sent up to an altitude of 30km, above 99% of the Earth’s atmosphere, to simulate conditions on Mars. It is the second time that the club has taken part in the national initiative, known as the MARSBalloon project, run by Thales Alenia Space. The Castle pupils’ experiments looked at the impact of space travel on battery life, the calcium content of bones and the water-holding properties of an absorbent polymer. They were among 100 which were transported into space for the project. On the way, they experienced conditions similar to those found on the surface of Mars: temperatures of 50 degrees Celsius, pressures 1/100th of that of sea level and increased radiation. The whole trip took four hours, with the balloon bursting and activating
August, 2019
School pupils send science experiments into space
The MARSBalloon project allows schoolchildren to carry out experiments 30km above the Earth’s surface. a parachute, which brought the experiments back to earth for investigation. The Castle School pupils found that a battery which had been to space could only power a bulb for two hours, whereas one
kept behind in the classroom was still going after six hours. Bones were tested by looking at the gas released when they were put into hydrochloric acid. The bones which had been to space gave off less gas. Absorbent polymer –
similar to those used in nappies and to irrigate plants – was able to hold less water after going into space. Science teacher Jennifer Griggs said the project only provided a one-off snapshot but still had huge benefits. She said: “It allowed us to explore a real world problem and gave us an exciting platform to spark discussions about science and how space travel can further our understanding of life on Earth. It also allowed the students to think about how working scientists need to plan their experiments to allow for unforeseen circumstances.” The aim of the MARSBalloon project is to encourage young people to consider a career in science, technology, engineering or maths.
Saturday 20 July – Sunday 1 September Catch Bristol’s greatest show as The Invisible Circus take over Brunel’s famous ship, with amazing acrobatics and jaw-dropping feats. Plan your day and save on tickets at ssgreatbritain.org/summer Supported by:
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August, 2019
n NEWS VOLUNTEERS from The Castle School Friends’ association who joined forces with other groups to revamp the school’s outside spaces, have joined the Royal Horticultural Society initiative ‘It's Your Neighbourhood'. The community gardening scheme enables volunteers to have feedback and advice every year from RHS judges. As two judges happened to be in town to see the Thornbury in Bloom displays as part of the Britain in Bloom competition, they popped over to the school too. Initial feedback was very positive with the judges appreciating how CSF has worked together with Thornbury in Bloom, the Thornbury Garden Shop, Thornbury Litterbusters, parents, teachers and pupils. During the year they have overhauled the area at the front of the school where there is now a raised bed with sculptures made by some of the pupils, created a new science garden complete with a pond and a bug house, and come up with plans for a new sensory garden. The
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Volunteers join community gardening scheme
Music judges will give a full feedback briefing to the CSF in October. The planned sensory garden, designed to particularly benefit children with special educational needs and disabilities, will be paid for using £2,500 raised by Cheryl Jenkinson, a parent who set up a GoFundMe page after a
Viv Cotterill of Castle School with fundraiser Cheryl Jenkinson and Rachel Murphy of CSF.
wooden gazebo for pupils with SEND was destroyed by fire. Cheryl has been working with the CSF and with Viv Cotterill, who is the school’s head of learning support, to develop the idea. Work refurbishing the student centre was recently finished on the final DIY day of the academic
year. The centre is where pupils go for pastoral care, and its been transformed; repainted, with a new reception area, medical bed, and storage. The centre’s own staff are now raising a further £1,500 themselves by doing the Malvern Challenge in August. This will pay for new carpet tiles to be laid, a job which is beyond the scope of the volunteers. Donations can be made online at bit.ly/32Fn0Kp. Although CSF volunteers are taking a break over the summer holidays, a DIY and gardening day is already scheduled for September 14 and a quiz night for September 20. Castle School Friends are on Facebook and can also be contacted by email at enquiries@ castleschoolfriends.org.
Tudor
AT ACTON COURT
Sunday 15 September | 3pm | 1501 - A Musical Revolution performed by InEcho
In Echo perform music from the Odhecaton, the world’s first ever book of printed music, including pieces by the greatest composers of the age; sacred motets side-by-side with bawdy love songs full of fun and innuendo. Tickets £20 | £18 concessions. Book online at actoncourt.com/events Come early and hear music students from the Bristol Conservatoire sing a melody of Latin texts old and new 2:40pm
Acton Court Latteridge Road Iron Acton Bristol BS37 9TL www.actoncourt.com or call 01454 228 224
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thornburyvoice
22
August, 2019
n NEWS TALENTED orators from primary schools in the Thornbury area had a chance to use their powers of persuasion in a public speaking competition. Twelve pupils form years 5 and 6 took part in the grand final of the Youth Speaks competition, organised by Thornbury Rotary, in front of an audience of nearly 100 people. This year seven schools took part, entering a total of 55 children for the heats. The overall winner was Georgia Cooper, of Tockington Manor School, who talked about her passion for junior hockey, and was awarded the Ron Nicholas Memorial Cup. Second place went to Xander Davies, from St Peter’s Pilning Primary School, for his personal account about mental health. Third place went to Sophie Clifton, from Crossways School, who talked about chocolate. The other finalists were Isabella Evans from Almondsbury Primary School, Eva Lewis from Tockington Manor School, Sophie Evans and
Competition celebrates Thornbury’s young speakers
Alexi Milburn from Olveston Primary School, Annabel Shipp and Katy Bray from Stone with Woodford Primary School, and Lucy Biggins and Bradley Tucker from St Helen’s School
in Alveston. They all received a shield, a certificate and a cash prize. The three judges were Christine Marsh, president of Inner Wheel Club, Graham
Cook, president of Thornbury Rotary Club, and the guest judge was Andy Bethell, director of development at Castle School. They were all impressed by the standard of the presentations. Organiser Guy Rawlinson said: “The idea of the competition is part of the Rotary Club’s involvement in serving the community, where young people are helped to develop their confidence and potential, especially in the art of public speaking.” Thornbury Rotary Club runs several competitions for local young people, including for photographers, chefs, musicians and leaders. To find out more visit thornburyrotary.org online or follow Rotary on Facebook @ ThornburyRotary.
Litter bin checks to catch out residents BINMEN will start checking litter bins in South Gloucestershire to try and catch people who are using them to dump their household waste. The council says some residents are “regularly” throwing waste from their homes in street litter bins – and Thornbury is one of the worst problem areas. Anyone whose waste is identified will face enforcement action and a possible fine.
The measure is part of a new 10-year waste strategy being launched by the council, which sets a target of recycling 65 per cent of rubbish by 2035 and sending no more than 10 per cent to landfill. The 44-page document says: “In some areas of South Gloucestershire, litter bins are being used for the disposal of household waste. “This results in overflowing bins and has a major negative
effect on the appearance of our streets." The report to cabinet said the council would review the location of its 1,000 street bins and will also consider calls for public recycling bins. The new strategy does not include any changes to kerbside collections, although from April next year bulky household items will be taken to a new facility to be shredded, removing recyclable materials with the rest sent to be
burned to generate energy, with the aim of zero going to landfill. The council’s new waste strategy is open for consultation until September 27. Comments can be made online at bit. ly/30Rwj8n, at local libraries or one-stop shops or by calling 01454 868154. A community engagement forum will be held at 7pm on September 11, at Easter Compton Village Hall, for people to ask questions.
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thornburyvoice
August, 2019
23
n INTERCHANGE BLOG
Perfect picnics for hot summer days WHAT better way to celebrate the summer months than with some tips on where to go and hints on how to make the most of eating outdoors? WHILST we don’t always get the weather or the opportunity to enjoy a picnic in the UK, when the sun is smiling it’s one of the most simple ways to enjoy a few hours out. Picnics are a throw-back from the mid 18th-century, when the French used to dine outside. A bottle of wine, a loaf of bread and some cheese, and voila! Let’s start with some places to visit for that perfect picnic in North Bristol.
Places to picnic There are dozens to choose from, but here are a few of our favourites: *Blaise Castle, Henbury – Loads of outdoor space, so not a chance that your picnic blanket will bump into someone’s else. There’s a large play park, small café and a good amount of free parking. There’s also fantastic woodland walks and the castle and the museum to explore. More details online at bit.ly/2ss7IJe. *Leigh Woods, Clifton – Leigh Woods boasts tranquil woods, great views of the gorge, its own picnic area and plenty to explore on bike or foot. More details online at bit.ly/2JpClJa. *Old Down Country Park, near Tockington – An award-winning attraction set in the countryside. You can enjoy 66 acres of open space, gardens, woodlands and spend hours of fun in our play areas with jumping pillow, an adventure playground, trampolines, and more. More details online at bit.ly/2JBNjcJ. *Mundy Playing Fields, Thornbury
– With a large open green space, play equipment, football pitches, tennis courts and a new children’s splashpad, a picnic will be just one part of a lovely day out here.
Picnic tips *Jam jars are great for salad dressings, salt and pepper and more *Put ice cubes in a Thermos flask: they won’t melt and you can have cold drinks all day! *Pack right: Wicker baskets may look beautiful but they’re not always practical. Try using an insulated bag with compartments instead. *Take an umbrella. Even if it doesn’t rain, they’re great for keeping the shade off your cool bag. *Take a cutting board. A small board will be very useful for slicing, dicing and dividing.
Picnic facts *The word picnic is derived from the French pique-nique. *The average person picnics at least three times per year – there are an estimated 94 million in the country each year.
*The average family spends £26 per picnic. *The most popular picnic item used to be a cheese sandwich: it’s now a bag of crisps. A final thought…leave only footprints. Make sure you pack up your rubbish and take it with you.
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Read more great stories on www.theinterchange.blog Family, community, lifestyle and entertainment in North Bristol
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thornburyvoice
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August, 2019
n LOCAL MP
Broadband: Fighting for the remaining 4% AS a local man who grew up in rural South Gloucestershire, I feel the frustrations that can come with a slow, or even worse non-existent, broadband connection. As the world becomes ever more dependent on connections – from working at home with email, to streaming the latest iPlayer series or children requiring the internet to complete their homework – a reliable and fast connection is more vital than ever. It is not a luxury: it can be as vital for households as heating or running water. Since 2010, the Government has undertaken one of the most ambitious infrastructure programs ever seen in our rural communities, with towns and villages in South Gloucestershire seeing a leap from 61% coverage in 2012 to the
present day 96%, aided by the Government’s investment of £13.7 million both locally and nationally. And the support hasn’t stopped there, with a number of schemes helping make more connections. From the Better Broadband Voucher for rural businesses to the Rural Gigabit scheme targeting our hardest-to-reach communities, the commitment from Government is to now treat a decent connection as a utility like water, electric and gas; connections are now increasingly fibre to the premises, rather than copper to the cabinet. As the local MP I have remained determined to be a strong voice for both our towns and our villages, ensuring that as a whole community, no-one is left behind. That is why I have consistently pressed both ministers and local
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council chiefs to deliver and fight for the remaining 4%, connecting our cherished surrounding rural communities with our towns. I was delighted to hear that our voice has now again been heard in Government; our demands from ministers have been successful and we have been granted an extra £900,000 for South Gloucestershire, which will help to meet this final element of the challenge for 100% broadband connections. I will continue to fight for the whole community, ensuring that when it comes to important issues such as this we’re not left behind. If you are concerned about the speed of your broadband connection, or if you are in the remaining 4% that we have to connect, please do let me know at luke.hall.mp@parliament.uk.
Luke Hall MP writes for Thornbury Voice
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thornburyvoice
August, 2019
25
n THORNBURY AND DISTRICT MUSEUM
Thornbury’s publiclyfunded schools THORNBURY has several good schools. But of these, only two – St Mary’s School and Gillingstool – have a history going back before the 1950’s. Gillingstool Primary School evolved out of the British School, which was built on the site in Gillingstool in 1863. It replaced an earlier British School, which was built in about 1838 as the property we later knew as 7 & 9 Bath Road. The name of the new school changed several times, becoming the Thornbury Board School and then the Council School. Until 1965, it provided education for children up to school leaving age. That year, the new Castle Secondary School was built in Park Road and thereafter the Council School provided only primary education. In 1968 it changed its name to The Leaze School and in 1985 it became Gillingstool Primary School. A book, The
History of a School by Tony Cherry, tells more of its history. St Mary’s Primary School was founded as the National School in 1837 and was originally sited on a small plot of land adjoining the churchyard outside the castle walls. A new school was built in 1862 on the current site. From the 17th century, Thornbury had two free schools, which provided some education for a limited number of children who could afford the small fees, subsidised by a group of charitable bequests. It was not until 1879 that the endowments of these two schools, the old Grammar School in Castle Street and Attwells Free School in St Mary Street, were combined and Thornbury Grammar School emerged. A new school was eventually built in Gloucester Road. George Nixon was appointed the headmaster and he saw the school through
Thornbury Grammar School in 1932 these changes. Thornbury Grammar School was finally closed in 1972, when it was transferred to new buildings at Alveston under the new name of Marlwood. The old school buildings in Gloucester Road became the Castle Upper School and later the Castle Sixth Form Centre. The Thornbury Union Workhouse, opened in 1839, had its own school, with separate
classrooms for boys and girls. It is unclear when it closed but log books from the National School show children from the workhouse attending. The book I’m a Pauper, Get Me Out of Here, also by Tony Cherry, details the history of the workhouse and includes lots of details and stories about this school. Both books can be bought at the museum or borrowed from local libraries.
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thornburyvoice
26 28
August, April, 2019 2017
■ n NEWS NEWS
Food growing on the menu at Thornbury open meeting ANYONE interested in producing their own vegetables, fruit and salad is invited to an open meeting of the Grow Your Own Food Group in Thornbury. The group was set up to share knowledge about food gardening and last year held two successful open meetings, which resulted in new members joining. With the start of the new growing season, the exercise is being repeated, with the event taking place in The Chantry, Castle Street, on Thursday, March 30, from 7.30pm-9pm.
Horns of plenty in fundshow raising time! concert It’s by Cornucopia quartet Flyin Ryan is back
LUKE HALL MP MP for Thornbury, Yate and the surrounding villages Write to Luke at: Luke Hall MP, 26 High Street, Chipping Sodbury, BS37 6AH e: luke.hall.mp@parliament.uk w: lukehall.org.uk Promoted by Luke Hall MP, House of Commons, SW1A 0AA.
Gotadvertise, News? Callcontact Richard 0n 01454 on 80001454 120 800 120 To Richard
MORE than 25,000 visitors are expected to experience the new attractions and returning favourites at this year’s South Gloucestershire Show. The show, which this year takes place on August 3 and 4, promises to be a weekend of memorable experiences and fun for all the family. A For CONCERT Thornbury bywill Cornucopia, a quartet the veryin first time there be livestock classesofin the NFU professional willofraise money thepigs town’s Livestock Area,horn withplayers, hundreds cattle, sheepfor and competing Armstrong Hall development project.will feature a grand parade of for winners’ rosettes. Both afternoons Music and his son - and Haydn will feature in livestock in by theMozart Gregor- Heating main arena. the in the3Cossham onwith Friday, Onperformance Saturday August there willHall, be a Chapel new dogStreet, village, dog March 31. activities, scent work and agility runs open to visitors and their pets. century piece Bird of the Forest also of beSouth played, A funThe dog19th show will help to raise funds for the will Friends Glos with the closing with Carr’s Chinese Songs. Strays. Onevening the following day theGordon area will become a tartan village, Cornucopia will join up with local fl ute player Nicki Woodward hosting the Royal Scottish Pipe Band Association. After the London (Barnes), baritone Niall Hoskin and pianistrealised Steven that Hollas forwere the and South of England Branch of the RSPBA here ticketsfor forpipe which cost in £12, concessions noconcert, competitions bands thewith South West, theyavailable. joined forces are onorganisers sale in Thornbury TownHundreds Hall, High by with They the show’s to stage one. ofStreet, pipers or and phoning 01454 412272. drummers will take part. Firm favourite Flyin Ryan returns to the main arena this year to perform his renowned motorcycle stunts; jumps over vehicles, wheelies, freestyle jumps and a pyrotechnic finale. There will be a sheepdog display with Thomas Longton, exhibiting the skill and dedication of the working dog. Wings of Wales are also making a comeback with their beautiful birds. In the Sprint Print RMX Arena there will be a BMX team showing off their tricks. For families with younger children, there is a kids’ zone with entertainment, including the Banana Brain Fun Show. For teenagers and adults there will be a music festival with local bands playing. Event sponsors John Lewis will host professional talks on fashion and style, new to the show this year. The show’s chosen charity is once again Jessie May, which supports children with life-limiting conditions and their families in South Gloucestershire and beyond. It will have its own stall dedicated to raising fundsWednesday through activities14th and games. profits from the VIP JuneAll 2017 area are donated to Jessie May, and visitors can upgrade their tickets to gain access. Armstrong Hall, Thornbury Some 250 exhibitors will be selling their wares, with a whole area Tickets fromtochloe-tony@hotmail.co.uk dedicated to available food and another health and well-being. The show opens at 10.30am on both days, with main arena Fabulous cut price bargains from quality high street labels. events running until 5pm and music until 8pm, at the South Glos All items are available for purchase on the night. Showground, Westerleigh, BS37 8QZ. For more information visit Cash or card only please. southglosshow.co.uk online.
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Fashion Show
SD Fashion Show Co Ltd. Second-hand Style will return next month
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August, 2019
thornburyvoice
27
n SPORT
Tie Break Tens are fast and furious THORNBURY Lawn Tennis Club’s third annual Tie Break Tens tournament was once again a fast, furious, competitive and enjoyable day’s play. All matches are between doubles pairs and follow a single championship tie break to 10 points, with a sudden death point played at 9-9. A handicapping system, involving some pairs having a head start and stronger servers only having a single serve, allows juniors, coaches, men’s, ladies and mixed doubles all to play in a single tournament. Both previous winning pairs – Phil Jones and Mair Vaughan, and juniors Toby Sturt and Luke Daniel – were taking part on July 7. After the round-robin starting format, two new pairs – John Brimacombe and Brian Jordan, and Claire Hawkins and Helen Bradley – remained unbeaten, securing their semi-final spots. While Phil and Mair managed to win the champion of champions encounter against Toby and Luke, they also suffered a couple of losses and did not make the semis. The other places were taken by the reigning champions and the new pairing of Carys Tait and Jasmine Xu. Both semi-finals were tense affairs, with long rallies and few mistakes. Cheered on by a captivated crowd, Brian and John narrowly beat Carys and Jasmine, while Claire and Helen lost to Toby and Luke by the narrowest of margins. After Jasmine and Carys fought hard to win the bronze medal match, the crowd loaded their plates with BBQ goodies and filled their glasses with Pimms and sat down to watch the final, which lived up to all expectations and went right down to the wire. Ultimately the consistency of hitting and the decisive shot making of Toby and Luke meant the 14-year-olds retained their title – and we hope to see them back next year to defend their title again. Heather Spalding
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thornburyvoice
August, 2019
29
n SPORT
FA Cup debut for Thornbury Town THORNBURY Town have been accepted to play in the FA Cup and FA Vase for the first time in their history. The FA Cup is the world’s oldest cup competition and, while Thorns have no chance of winning it, a couple of wins at the preliminary stages would raise the club’s profile, be financially beneficial and possibly increase the supporter base. They enter the competition in the Extra Preliminary Round on August 10, facing a long trip to Bedfordshire to face Leighton Town of the South Midlands League Premier Division. If successful, Thorns will be away to Thame United in the next round. The club will be running a coach to the game and any supporters interested in travelling with the team should get in touch as soon as possible. The Buildbase FA Vase is also a national competition, exclusively for step 5 and 6 clubs in the National League System, with the Final played at Wembley. Town have been drawn at home to fellow Hellenic League side Cheltenham Saracens on August 31, with the winners travelling to Wokingham & Emmbrook or Chipping Sodbury in the next round. Manager Jason Rees, pictured, said: “We are absolutely delighted to be taking part in such a prestigious competition. All credit should go to the Squad and Andy Davies for THORNBURY Golf Club’s Ladies Open saw 38 teams of three go out over the course of four hours playing a Bowmaker in glorious weather. The winners were the home trio of Jennifer Budd, Judith England and Julia Faulkes, with 98 points. Clevedon’s Sarah Derrick, Gaynor Richards and Alison Hodgson were overall runnersup on 93 points. Angela Woodward of Cirencester, Sarah Taylor of Painswick and Lorna Sparkes of Tewkesbury Park were third with 90 points. The scores were quite phenomenal but were due to the weather on July 8 and the wonderful state of the course. Just over two weeks earlier, Thornbury Golf Club held its Club Championships over 2 days on the weekend of June 22-23. The overall men’s champion was Jon Barton, with a gross 78 and 75 over the two days. The ladies’ champion was Ruth Hughes, returning scores of 82 and 80 gross, with Carol Symonds the ladies’ net winner with a score of 86 and 88 respectively. Gill Brooks
getting us this far. We hope to play our part in this years FA Cup story.” With Rees and Gary Kemp at the helm of the first team and a third team having been started, pre-season training has seen good numbers attending, with over 40 players regularly taking part. Most of last year’s first team squad have committed themselves to the new season and with the addition of a few new faces, there will be plenty of competition for places. The club have withdrawn from the Stroud League and entered two teams into the Bristol & District League for the coming season, with the second team being a development squad made up primarily of last season’s U18 team. New players should make contact with any of the club’s managers or turn up to training at the Mundys on a Wednesday evening at 6.30pm. Town’s second season at Hellenic League Division One West level will see them facing plenty of new opposition as the league complement has been increased to 16. They face three trips to Hereford, as well as Malvern Town, Bourton Rovers and Moreton Rangers. They will also be renewing acquaintances with Stonehouse Town and Shortwood United. The committee are busy behind the
Jason Rees scenes looking at ways of improving facilities at the ground and new dug-outs that have been constructed are the first step in that direction. The committee have also been busy trying to increase their sponsorship base, and vice-chairman Graham Smith has worked tirelessly in this area: he would be pleased to hear from any individual or company keen to sponsor the club in any way as they make the historic step into the FA Cup and FA Vase. Malcolm Carr
Glorious weather for golf
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30
n SPORT
thornburyvoice
August, 2019
Taryn breaks club record in Thornbury 10k
THE Thornbury 10k was hotly anticipated by the sell-out field and was a sweltering evening of racing. Organised by Thornbury Running Club, the race on July 11 was their second of the year, run on the undulating country lanes from the rugby club to Rockhampton, over the Sundayshill Lane and back. Bristol and West AC’s stranglehold of the men’s race was broken by Gavin Jones from Monross Trailblazers in a winning time of 35:02, followed by Gloucester’s Owen Parry in 36:00 mins and Andrew Kirrup of Wotton Runners in 36:27 mins. Susan Duncan broke the 40 min barrier with an excellent time of 39:34 mins to take first place in the women’s field. In second place, Thornbury’s Taryn Roberts, pictured, went two minutes quicker than 12 months ago, in a barnstorming run of 40:23 mins. Taryn had the
added satisfaction of breaking her club’s 10k record, which had stood for 26 years. Third place in the women’s race was Westbury’s Vicky Tester in 40:45 mins. As well as an army of Thornbury volunteers, there were several TRC runners taking part. Nick Williams was 12th overall in 39:06 mins, followed by Paul Harrod in 16th in 39:59 mins, Adam Frontczak 34th in 42:41 mins, Jay Mosley 35th in
42:50 mins, Paul Saville 38th in 43:06 mins, Chris Gaze 46th in 44:40 mins, Matt Johnstone 47th in 44:45 mins, Ian Hoffman 48th in 44:49 mins, and Martin Abrahams 58th in 45:42 mins. Thornbury’s second woman to finish was Hannah KinlochHaken, 59th overall and 7th woman in 45:42 mins, followed by Digby Lees, 63rd in 46:26 mins, Michael Barnes 67th in 46:38 mins, Melanie Wilson
68th and 8th woman in 46:41 mins, Sean Underwood 124th in 52:30 mins, Ian Shepherd 125th in 52:30 mins and Michael Owen, 151st in 54:56 mins. Peter Blenkiron was 163rd and 3rd in the MV60 age category in 55:33 mins, followed by Chris Lee 178th in 56:21 mins, Sarah Dix 183rd in 56:44 mins, Rachael Underwood 185th in 57:00 mins, Katie Dent 283rd in 1 hour 7:42 mins, Simon Groves 300th in 1 hour 10:30 mins and Carol Mosses, 334th in 1 hour 23:04 mins. Three Thornbury triathletes took part in the gruelling Ironman UK in Bolton on July 14. An open water 2.4-mile swim was followed by a 112-mile bike section and a 26.2 mile run. Emma Barnes took 3rd place in the FV40 age category, 28th woman and 350th overall out of over 1600 finishers, in an overall time of 13 hours 07:07 mins. Matthew Johnstone
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thornburyvoice
August, 2019
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MARKETING SUITE OPEN!
At Cotswold Homes we understand that work/life balance has never been more important for you and your family and your brand new home is likely to be the biggest investment you ever make. With this in mind, we choose the best locations, design versatile layouts and include a multitude of ‘extras’ to save you money. Take a look at The Paddocks; a delightful new community of beautiful bungalows and detached homes, set in the picturesque village of Tytherington.
This country enclave has been thoughtfully designed to blend perfectly with the local area and connects directly to the heart of the village with the community shop, post office, parish church and pub. Our semirural retreat features 2, 3 & 4 bedroom homes with an enviable specification including appliances (oven, hob, feature hood, dishwasher, washer dryer and fridge freezer), contemporary vinyl flooring to kitchens and bathrooms, chrome towel rails, semi pedestal sanitaryware, outside tap plus fully enclosed and turfed gardens – all at no extra cost. If you’re looking for value for money without compromise on design, visit the marketing suite and see why so many people are choosing Cotswold Homes for their next move. Ask About Helptobuy – It’s not just for fIrst tIme buyers.
Marketing suite open at The Swan GL12 8QB 07990 501351 01454 560015
cotswoldhomes.co.uk Help to Buy is subject to the government’s terms and conditions - more information can be found on www.helptobuy.org.uk. *Terms and conditions apply - ask sales consultant for details. CGI for illustrative purposes only.