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May, 2017 Issue 2
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Arguments aired over latest homes plan during site visit A DECISION on another controversial house building scheme for Thornbury is unlikely to be made imminently, despite a sites inspection visit taking place. South Gloucestershire planners and Thornbury residents who are fighting the scheme for land west of Gloucester Road went to the field in the north of the town to view the location and consider the developer’s proposals. A big increase in the amount of house building in the town is a major concern, with three sites alone at Thornbury Fields, Park Farm and Post Farm accounting for more than 900 homes already. The Gloucester Road proposal would take the number over 1,000 but those opposing it are hoping to be able to persuade planners not to grant permission. They will use arguments that were raised successfully against the Cleve Park plan for up to 350 homes at the southern end of Morton Way and which resulted in that plan being rejected
recently. A number of objectors have said Thornbury was always considered the jewel in the crown of South Gloucestershire
but that attribute was in danger of being lost through large scale development in the town. Full story page 8
Making Thornbury Carnival fly Carnival organisers reveal this year’s theme PAGE 3
Have your say on Thornbury’s future Town plan to map out next 20 years PAGE 8
On your marks…. Entries open for Oldbury Fun Run PAGE 12
Schools funding crisis Campaign launched to improve South Glos situation SPECIAL REPORT: PAGE 24
A net gain for Rockhampton Right up their street. Children from Manorbrook Primary School have helped name roads in the new Park Farm development in Thornbury. More, page 5.
Gloucestershire greats open new training facility PAGE 31
£1 BILLION REASONS TO VOTE FOR YOUR WEST OF ENGLAND MAYOR Our £1 billion deal with the Government puts new investment and decision-making power in local hands. Your vote counts on 4th May: www.wevote.org.uk
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May, 2017
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Carnival to fly high as entertainment lined up for thousands of visitors THE team behind Thornbury’s annual carnival said planning was in full swing for the summer event, which is now just two months away. Some 10,000 visitors are expected to enjoy the day, which starts with a parade of marching bands, classic cars, military vehicles and an open-top bus with its own jazz band on board. Local groups have been encouraged to join the procession through the town on foot or on floats, while stilt walkers will entertain those lining the streets and later mingle with the crowds on the Mundy Playing Fields show site. Carnival organiser David Goldring said this year’s theme for the event was “things that fly” and could lead to appearances by insects, birds, aeroplanes or kites. He said: “We are hoping it will be taken up by the many children’s groups which take part in the parade each year. The challenge is to be imaginative and resourceful.” The carnival takes place on Saturday, July 1, with the parade setting off at 10.30am from the Castle School and making its way along Castle Street and High Street to the playing fields. A programme of entertainment will then run through from noon to 7.30pm,
ranging from a funfair, birds of prey and electric karts to face painting and live music. Mr Goldring said old favourites such as the Gugge 2000 Band from Bournemouth and The Femmes from London had been booked to perform, along with Thornbury Town Band, Street Envy, Irish dancers and Thornbury Musical Theatre Group. Carnival newcomers include gipsy violin duo Peroucki from Bristol, while rock fusion band Rock Pipes will lead into the
finale by Queen tribute band The Bohemians. Meanwhile, the carnival committee is looking for volunteers to help out on the day, in roles such as street marshals and stewarding for stallholders. Anyone interested should email organiser@thornburycarnival. co.uk for details.
Singing out for charity in Thornbury and Alveston THE Alveston Singers are about to perform their traditional two spring concerts to raise money for charities they have chosen to help in 2017. Established 40 years ago, the group was formed to support various organisations and charities through song. No tickets are sold for its spring and Christmas concerts but audiences can make donations after each performance. This year all money collected will go to the Julian Trust for the homeless and Off the Record, a mental health charity for young people. Jenny Parsons, the group’s spokeswoman, said money raised was divided equally
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Tickets for the event are already on sale and are available in the town hall, Surroundings and Maison Interiors. Those attending will be supporting the carnival’s chosen charity, Jigsaw, the town-based group formed by parents to help families with children and young people with additional needs.
between the charities, with nothing taken out for choir funds. She said: “We have a new conductor, James Davies, who will be conducting his first concert in Thornbury so we are hoping for lots of support.” The programme features Vivaldi’s Gloria and Magnificat, together with a selection of choral classics, with Sue Phillipson-Masters the accompanist. Soloists from Bath Spa University will also be involved in the concerts, which take place in Thornbury Baptist Church on Saturday, May 20, and St Helen’s Church, Alveston, on Tuesday, May 23. Both performances start at 7.30pm.
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PUBLISHER’S NOTE: Thornbury Voice is independent. We cannot take responsibility for content or accuracy of adverts, and it is advertisers’ responsibility to conform to all relevant legislation. We cannot vouch for any services offered. Opinions are not necessarily those of the editor. Thornbury Voice is distributed each month to local residents. If for some reason you do not get a copy, please get in touch or collect one from local pick-up points. Feedback is welcomed, call Richard On 01454 800 120 or contact@thornburyvoice.co.uk
May, 2017
Neighbourhood plan in pipeline to give people more say in Thornbury’s development A BLUEPRINT aimed at shaping the future of Thornbury for the next 20 years is being launched. The town council recently hosted a public meeting to start the process of establishing a Neighbourhood Development Plan (NDP), which will be written by local people to reflect needs and issues. Mayor Helen Harrison said: “A neighbourhood plan will give local people more say in how Thornbury develops and grows over the coming years. “We will be involving the whole community in deciding the future of our town over the coming months as the plan is researched, consulted upon and developed, so it is essential that local people and businesses have a say and are involved at every stage.” The NDP will cover matters such as the number of new homes to be built, where they should go, the type of housing needed and how new properties are designed and built. It will also consider the local economy and the location for jobs, shops and town centre services, as well as transport, schools, health facilities and
protection of the environment. Thornbury is one of only a few communities in South Gloucestershire to start the NDP process and it is estimated the plan will take 18 months before it can be approved through a local referendum. Once that approval is given, it will become part of the local plan and the policies contained within it will then be used in the determination of planning applications. But the council stressed that the neighbourhood plan cannot block development that is already part of the local plan. However, it can shape where that development will go and what it will look like. A working group of volunteers will now be recruited to undertake research, consult local people and draft policies, with the support of the town council, which will also discuss it at key stages. The council has set aside £10,000 for the proposal and will be applying for grants to help fund some of the technical work and research that will be necessary.
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PLANS for an indoor ski slope, ice rink and skydiving centre at Cribbs Causeway have been approved by South Gloucestershire Council. Full permission was granted for nearly 14,000 square metres of new floor space, which will also feature a drive-through coffee facility.
Separately, outline consent was given for a retail store, hotel, restaurant and car showroom. But due to the scale of the proposals, the plans had to be referred to the Communities Secretary Sajid Javid for a final decision.
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May, 2017
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Leisure centre newcomers donate Easter eggs to families EASTER eggs were donated by potential new leisure centre members to give a chocolate treat to families in need. The Circadian Trust, which runs Thornbury’s leisure centre and six others across South Gloucestershire, invited those people signing up as members to contribute an egg in return for a reduced joining fee. It resulted in nearly 140 being collected and passed on to charities such as Thornbury Baptist Church foodbank for distribution to families who would otherwise be unable to afford Easter eggs. Trust spokeswoman Erica Cross said: “Food banks rely on donations to help local people in crisis and it was nice to be able to give a little something to families who wouldn’t normally have the pleasure of an Easter egg. “We were delighted to be able to support other local charities and at the same time encourage more people to start a healthier,
active lifestyle by joining our leisure centres.”
OPEN DAY Friday 12th May 2:30pm to 5:00pm
Jon Dobson, from North Bristol Foodbank, receives some of the donations
Schoolchildren name new roads on Thornbury housing development PUPILS at Manorbrook Primary School in Thornbury have chosen names for roads on one of the new housing schemes in the town. The children voted for their favourites from a list of names for the Park Farm development put forward by housebuilder David Wilson Homes. Each reflected the site’s medieval and agricultural history, with Buttercup Meadow, Deer Park and Haybob Way proving the most popular. Deer Park is significant as Edward Stafford, the third Duke of Buckingham, applied for a licence to create a 1,500 acre
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deer park in the area in the 16th century. Jurgen Bowering, of David Wilson Homes, attended an assembly at the school to present certificates in thanks for the contribution made. Headteacher Darren Stanley said: “It’s fantastic that our pupils have had the opportunity to influence the changes happening in their community. “The naming of the roads involved the whole school and the children were really excited to be involved. We also used the project as an opportunity to revisit our teachings on road safety and local history.”
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TICKETS are about to go on sale for the farce Funny Money, which is being performed by the Octopus drama group in early June. Mistaken identities and a mix-up over a briefcase full of cash forms the story for the production, which will run for four nights in Christ the King Church Hall, Castle Street, Thornbury. The comedy opens on Wednesday, June 7, and tickets are available from May 7. They cost £7, or £6 with concessions, and can be bought from Chappell and Matthews in High Street. Alternatively they can be ordered from www.octopusthornbury.co.uk or by phoning 01454 413783.
Pop up shop to give boost to town’s volunteer centre A POP-up shop is returning to Thornbury to promote volunteering and encourage more people to help others in their spare time. Thornbury Volunteer Centre is behind the scheme, which last year resulted in at least 15 potential new volunteers registering and many more people taking away information. Spokeswoman Kim Webb said the shop would open on Saturday, May 27, in 1a St Mary Street and initially operate for a week until Saturday, June 3. However, it will be closed on Monday, May 29, for the spring bank holiday. The launch coincides with National Volunteers’ Week and
from 10am-4pm the shop will sell an assortment of donated goods, from clothing to furniture and toys, to raise funds for the centre. It will also host a number of voluntary and community organisations so they can promote their work to those calling in, while a 1940s-themed tearoom will sell tea, coffee and home-made cakes. It is then planned to open the shop on four consecutive Saturdays on June 10, 17 and 24 and on July 1. Kim said: “We may also pop up at other times during those weeks.” She said anyone with items to donate should contact her
via email at mail@volunteerthornbury.co.uk or phone 01454 413392. Any items not sold will be donated to other charity shops in the town. Meanwhile, the centre is currently looking for a number of volunteers to fill posts in Thornbury, Alveston and across South Gloucestershire. St Mary's Church Hall in Thornbury urgently needs a bookings secretary, Alveston Methodist Church lunch club requires helpers once a month and the social enterprise Growing Support is recruiting volunteers to work on therapeutic gardens in residential and day care facilities across the district.
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thornburyvoice
May, 2017
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Heritage in the spotlight at new exhibition set to visit Thornbury
High demand for memory cafes leads to launch of second facility in Thornbury
A NEW exhibition devoted to the heritage of South Gloucestershire will visit Thornbury in June. South Gloucestershire Museums were due to launch the display in Patchway library as Thornbury Voice went to press. After a month there, it will move to Thornbury library, where it will remain from June
A NEW memory cafe is about to open in Thornbury to help meet a demand from people with dementia and their carers. The town already has one such facility that is held in the Methodist church every two weeks. Now Haven Memory Cafe will provide a similar service in the United Reformed Church on alternate weeks from June 23. Organisers said Haven would complement the first cafe, opening on Friday mornings and serving Thornbury and the
5-30. Organisers said it was the first time the area’s heritage had been featured in such an exhibition and was designed to bring to life its history for people of all ages. In years to come it will be seen at museums, sites and events all over South Gloucestershire.
Tributes paid to former bishop of Gloucester THE former bishop of Gloucester, Michael Perham, has died of cancer. Bishop Michael led the diocese for ten years and will be remembered particularly in Thornbury for his support when vicar John Suddards was stabbed to death in the Castle Street vicarage five years ago. The bishop led a special service in the town to remember Rev Suddards in the immediate aftermath of the killing, returning to conduct his funeral service in St Mary’s Church. In a message to the diocese, the current bishop of Gloucester, the Right Rev Rachel Treweek, said: “It is with great sadness that I am writing to inform you that Bishop Michael died peacefully at home on Monday evening, April 17, following a special Easter weekend with all the family. “I will always be grateful for Bishop Michael’s wisdom, insight and friendship which I first experienced as a member of General Synod. “It is an immense privilege to have followed in Bishop Michael’s footsteps as bishop of Gloucester and I am deeply aware of the significant impact of his ministry on the lives of individuals and worshipping communities across this diocese.” In 2014, Bishop Michael announced plans for his forthcoming retirement but later
that year had to step back from his ministry while a subsequently dismissed allegation of indecent assault made against him was investigated. Police found there was no case to answer and a Church of England committee approved Bishop Michael’s continuing ministry in retirement. More than 1,000 people later attended a service of thanksgiving and celebration in Gloucester Cathedral to bid him farewell and he was also given a prolonged standing ovation at the General Synod when he received a tribute from the Archbishop of Canterbury, Justin Welby. • Stephen Farrow was jailed for life for murdering the Rev Suddards, 59, and retired Worcestershire teacher Betty Yates.
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surrounding area. With a large and growing demand for such services, it is hoped the second cafe will be well supported. But ahead of its opening, a steering group needs to recruit volunteers to help out, welcome and chat to visitors and serve refreshments. An information and training morning for potential volunteers will be held on Friday, May 19, and anyone interested should contact Barbara Goom on 01454 414826.
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thornburyvoice
May, 2017
Site visit gives opponents chance to have their say on house building OBJECTIONS to the latest scheme for large scale housing in Thornbury were voiced when planners visited the project site on the north side of the town. Ainscough Strategic Land had originally applied for outline permission to put 180 homes on the farmland to the west of Gloucester Road, opposite the already developed Thornbury Fields homes. But those attending the sites inspection claimed they were told the number had now been cut to 130. Thornbury Town Council is opposing the plan as the site is outside the town’s development boundary. It said it was a further example of “speculative and unplanned development” which would lead to a significant and unsustainable percentage increase in Thornbury’s population. The council said Thornbury had already accepted enough new development to meet its housing needs and it was unfair that it should accommodate even more to meet South Gloucestershire’s
five-year housing land supply requirement. It has also raised “serious concerns” about drainage and flooding in the area, “dangerous” access to the site, the size of homes proposed, “unimaginative” layout and “bland assortment” of properties, as well as increased traffic and road safety fears. Residents’ group TRAPPD - Thornbury Residents Against Poorly Planned Development was represented at the site visit. Spokesman Roger Hall said: “Ainscough said it was reducing the number of homes from 180 to 130.” But he said the scheme still pushed the settlement boundary beyond Post Farm and TRAPPD would rather the development wasn’t built at all. Its concerns mirror those of the town council and it has questioned where all the new residents are going to work as job opportunities locally are limited. It is also pushing for brownfield sites to be considered for housing ahead of green space. Mr Hall said: “Once these farm fields have gone, they’ve
gone forever. We are just fighting for a bit of common sense.” Objectors have also pointed out a lack of public transport and the pressure on schools and health services from the increased population. Meanwhile Oldbury-on-
Severn Parish Council has added its objection to the scheme on several grounds, including its worries about flood and surface water travelling downstream and exacerbating existing flood issues in Oldbury.
Time for tea with the mayor to help local charities THORNBURY mayor Helen Harrison will host a tea party in the town to raise money for two locally-based charities she is supporting during her term of office. The event in the Armstrong Hall takes place on Saturday, May 20, and will include musical entertainment by groups of young people from the Thornbury area. Starting at 2.30pm, the party is a fund raiser for Brain Tumour Support and Jigsaw, the group that supports families with children and young people with extra needs. An invitation has been extended to local people to go along but the number of seats will be limited and attendance has to be registered ahead of the event by calling the town hall on 01454 412103. Donations to the Mayor’s Charity Fund can also be made at the event or at the town hall. Councillor Harrison said: “My aim is to arrange events which will attract different sectors of the community.”
Candidates for Thornbury and Yate seat start to come forward for June’s General Election TWO political parties have already confirmed their candidates in the forthcoming General Election for the Thornbury and Yate constituency. Luke Hall, who became the area’s Conservative MP at the last election in 2015, said he would be seeking re-election on June 8.
Mr Hall took the seat from long-standing Liberal Democrat MP Steve Webb but with a reduced majority of 1,495. Local councillor Claire Young will now try to regain the constituency for the Lib Dems after Mr Webb decided not to stand. Councillor Young represents Westerleigh on South Claire Young
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GloucestershireCouncil and is her party’s deputy leader within the authority. She said: “I am ready for the challenge ahead and will be looking forward to standing up for the people of the Thornbury and Yate constituency.” Mr Hall said: “It has been the greatest honour of my life to serve our area. I am delighted
to be re-seeking election so I can continue to ensure that our community is heard right at the top in Westminster on the keys issues that matter to us all.” Announcements of further candidates are expected in the coming weeks and Thornbury Voice will carry details of all those standing in its June edition. Luke Hall
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Customer satisfaction CUSTOMER SATISFACTION
with the services provided by South Gloucestershire’s biggest landlord have reached a 12-month high. Housing association Merlin has revealed customer satisfaction from January – March 2017 was at 85.3%. Added to previous results, it means overall customer satisfaction with Merlin’s services in 2016 – 17 was 83.6%. Customer satisfaction with the quality of their home is also high, at 84.5% over the past 12 months.
them, Merlin is determined to do even better. Its target is to increase overall customer satisfaction to 90% and satisfaction with their neighbourhoods by 2019. And it is confident that two ongoing projects will help Merlin achieve this goal.
A Merlin spokesman said: “Our 2020 Project aims to improve customer access to our services by giving them more choice about how to contact us. We’ll be introducing new smartphone and tablet apps and improving our online customer portal, where customers will be able to view their account, request a repair and make a payment.
“Our 2020 Project aims to improve customer access to our services by giving them more choice about how to contact us”
One customer who responded to the latest survey said: “I am very grateful for the way Merlin Housing and their staff look after the home I live in and have for the last 40 years. I live on my own and my dear wife past away after 70 years being married. So to all staff who have taken care of our home all these years, I would just say again thank you to you all.” Although the vast majority of customers are either very satisfied or fairly satisfied with their home and the services the housing association provides
“We’re also reviewing our repairs policy at the moment. We know that getting repairs right is the biggest issue for customers. Our new contract with Travis Perkins is already helping to improve this service, and are working to ensure we improve the service we provide to customers from the point where a customer decides to contact us to the work being finished. By making these improvements we’re confident that customer satisfaction will increase even further.”
Window cleaning team aim to provide sparkling service Merlin’s new window cleaning service has taken to the road in their bespoke van kitted out with everything they need to clean a window in just 45 seconds – with the aim of increasing customer satisfaction with the quality of the service. Every month they’ll be cleaning all of the communal windows at Merlin’s general needs blocks of flats and inside and out at the four independent living schemes in Thornbury. Merlin has decided to take the window cleaning service in-house in an effort to improve satisfaction levels with the quality of the service. In total the two-man team will be cleaning windows at more than 300 sites and they’re using the latest technology to deliver it. The state-of-the-art water system allows the 600 litres tank in our specially kitted out van to be filled in just six minutes. And Merlin is already
New apprenticeship opportunities at Merlin coming soon
receiving compliments from the first customers to receive the service about the way their windows are shining. Cleaning Services Team Leader Carl James said: “We’ve decided to bring our window cleaning service in-house in order to deliver the best possible service to customers. We had some complaints from customers with our previous contractor and thought we’d be able to do a better job. It’s in our best interest to make sure that customers are happy. We now have more control and if something does happen, we’ll be able to put it right much faster. “The previous contract was just for the window pane to be cleaned, so when we started we found that although the glass was clean, the frames were really dirty. We decided that in order to deliver the best service to customers on the first visit we’d also clean the frames as well as the panes to make it all sparkle.”
If you’re looking for a new opportunity keep your eye on the Merlin website in the next few weeks.
We’re one of the largest employers in South Gloucestershire and recognise our responsibility to provide opportunities for people to start or learn a new career.
The South Gloucestershire housing association will be opening up applications for its latest intake of apprentices. The successful candidates will spend four days a week with Merlin and one day a week studying at South Gloucestershire and Stroud College.
“We’ve always had a lot of interest in all the apprenticeships that we’ve offered and are sure that this year’s positions will be no different.”
HR Business Partner Vicky James said: “We’re committed to investing in people and giving them the opportunity to develop. Apprenticeships offer a valuable route into employment for people, giving them the chance to learn and earn money at the same time.
Merlin’s current five apprentices are around halfway through their apprenticeships and recently came together to spend a day helping out at Grimsbury Farm in Kingswood as part of its volunteering programme. The apprenticeships will be advertised on Merlin’s website, www.merlinhs.co.uk/apprenticeships and on the national www.gov.uk/ apply-apprenticeship website.
thornburyvoice
May, 2017
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Thornbury woman Tockington girl strides ahead at publishes first the London Mini children’s book A THORNBURY woman has published her first book, aimed at young children. Carol Bush, has teamed up with a Frampton Cotterell artist Amber Rose to write Today I…, aimed at two to five year olds. Carol, who has three children of her own, has worked with children for over 20 years and currently works with hearing impaired children Today I..., is a first book for the pair. Carol said; “We have both enjoyed learning about the process of publishing a book and are thrilled with the end result. The positive feedback from children, teachers, parents and grandparents has been amazing,
we are looking forward to creating another book.” Amber studied animation at the University of West of England and went on to become a digital designer at an e-learning company in Gloucester. She now works as a freelance artist. Carol said “Its clear words and beautifully illustrated, colourful pictures are all relatable to children, allowing opportunities to encourage conversations, develop awareness of the days of the week, senses - hopefully resulting in smiles.” The book is available through their website: rosebushbooks@ outlook.com
Marathon
A PUPIL at Tockington Manor School has finished in the top ten of the London Mini Marathon, held on the same day as the main race. Year 8 pupil Dalis Jones came sixth in the under 13 girls race, just behind the British number one. Dalis led the pack for most of the 3 mile course but was overtaken by strong runners near to the finish line. She completed the race in 17 minutes 30 seconds, just 29 seconds
behind the winner who broke the course record. Deputy Headmaster Jonathan Jones, who is also Dalis’ dad, said “We are immensely proud of Dalis, she has had a fantastic cross country season and this really is the icing on the cake.” Dalis is both the Gloucestershire and Gwent League cross country Champion and the National CC Silver Medalist.
Carol (left) with Amber and their children’s book
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thornburyvoice
May, 2017
On your marks for annual Oldbury Fun Run
UP to 1,000 people of all ages are expected to take part in the annual fun run in Oldbury-onSevern - one of the biggest events of its kind in the South West. Registration has opened for the event, which involves serious runners coming under starter’s orders first for a competitive road race, followed by the rest of the field setting off on the fourmile course. Runners, joggers and walkers, including some in fancy dress, will line up outside the Anchor pub in the heart of the village to be sent on their way. Each will be given a timing chip to record their performance and prizes will be awarded in a number of sections for adults and children, as well as the best team. The route to be followed takes in local roads that will be closed to vehicles while people are making their way round. Meanwhile, a small part of the village on Church Road will be closed all day for a number of activities taking place throughout the afternoon, ranging from displays, competitions and games to live music and a Punch and Judy show. Food stalls will also be set up. Organisers said they were encouraging as many people as
possible who want to take part to register in advance to make it easier on the day, as well as cheaper for the entrants. Pre-registering costs £8 - or £5 for under-13s - but will be £3 more expensive for same-day entry. Traditionally, the fun run has raised money for the children’s cancer charity CLIC Sargent and to date has collected many
Appeal for more firefighters to join service AVON Fire and Rescue Service is looking to South Gloucestershire to help it recruit full-time firefighters for the first time in eight years. The service currently employs 455 full-time firefighters - a number that has been falling since 2010. As a result of reduced Government funding, firefighters leaving or retiring have not been replaced. As any further reductions in the operational headcount would take the service below its minimum crewing levels, Avon Fire Authority recently approved the recruitment of 16 new firefighters. Applications are being sought from across the former Avon area, including South
Gloucestershire. Assistant chief fire officer Simon Shilton said the service was encouraging applications from groups currently underrepresented, particularly women and people from black and minority ethnic backgrounds. Mr Shilton said: “There are lots of myths about becoming a firefighter. Of course you need to be fit and have good upper body strength but with training that can be achieved.” Visit www.yesyoucan.careers to find out more information. Applications will be available for those interested in the role to download for one week only from Tuesday, May 2. Those selected will then take part in a training school in October.
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thousands of pounds for its work, as well as helping village-related charities and events with smaller donations. Chris Awde, who heads up the fun run committee, said: “It’s a great day out with some very competitive and fun racing. Hundreds have already registered.” The event takes place on Sunday, June 25, with the Red
Start road race, organised in association with Thornbury Running Club, getting underway at 11am. The Blue Start fun run action is scheduled to begin ten minutes later. Details are available online at www.oldburyfunrun.co.uk and include information on registering. Photo courtesy of Jo Sutherst.
Life-saving cancer screening missed by many over-60s HEALTH experts said a large proportion of people over 60 in South Gloucestershire were failing to take up the offer of potentially life-saving screening for bowel cancer. Just 58 per cent of those between 60 and 74 in the district were using the opportunity to be assessed within six months of being invited to take part through the use of home screening kits. More than 41,000 people nationally are diagnosed every year with the condition yet nine out of ten patients are treated successfully when the cancer is found in its earliest stage. The number of people dying from the disease has been falling since the 1970s due to earlier diagnosis and better treatment. Dr Glenda Beard, the clinical lead for cancer for South Gloucestershire Clinical Commissioning Group, said: “Bowel cancer is the second biggest cancer killer. But it shouldn’t be as it is both treatable and curable, especially if it is diagnosed early “However, thousands of people in our area are missing the chance of early detection of their bowel cancer as they are failing to do their screening.”
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May, 2017
13
n NEWS
Festival opener Ann Widdecombe to stop off at Olveston mural to view new artwork FORMER Home Secretary Ann Widdecombe will come face to face with her own image before formally opening Thornbury Arts Festival. Olveston artist Angus Macaskill has been asked to promote the annual festival by painting a mural to be displayed on the gates of his home Churchill House. Angus is well known for creating pictures when inspired by what’s in the news - from the London Olympics to the death of Labour politician Tony Benn - and fixing the work on boards onto his gates for passers-by to see. So he was approached by the arts festival committee to paint a picture of Ann Widdecombe, who will be the special guest on the nine-day event’s opening night on Friday, May 5. She will declare the festival open in the Armstrong Hall before giving a talk about her life both inside Parliament and after
leaving the House of Commons, which included her appearance on Strictly Come Dancing. When told about the mural, she was keen to see it and plans to drop by before heading onto Thornbury for the evening show. The festival continues until May 13, with highlights including the acclaimed Reduced Shakespeare Company comedy team with another irreverent celebration of the Bard - as seen through the eyes of three Americans wearing trainers. Their production of William Shakespeare’s Long Lost First Play (abridged) is claimed to be a shortened form of a “new” play discovered in a Leicester car park and has already been seen at venues such as the renowned Folger Shakespeare Library in Washington and the Edinburgh Fringe. An illustrated talk on the restoration of Dyrham Park’s gardens, an evening with The Antiques Roadshow regular
Judith Miller, electric string band Stringfever and Squashbox Theatre’s Sea Show - a mix of puppet show, natural history and comedy cabaret aimed at families - are also in the packed programme. Online booking has been available for some time via the festival website but a box office is now also open in Thornbury library on Saturdays from 10amnoon and in Thornbury Town Hall in the week during the same hours.
Steam rally back for 32nd year THE Castle Combe Steam & Vintage Rally is back for its 32nd year, with organisers expecting thousands at the event on May 20 and 21. It will feature displays of vintage steam engines, tractors, cars, military vehicles and motorcycles. Fairground rides and attractions will keep the children entertained and evening music will come from live band Tundra, which will play hits from six decades. Live arena events this year include the Terrier Racing display team, Shetland ponies, Kooky the Clown, radio-controlled buggies, mini Land Rover rides and sheepdog demonstrations. As with the previous two years, the event will raise money for local charity Jessie May, which provides care for terminally ill children within their own homes. It is open from 10am-6pm on Saturday and 10am-5pm on Sunday. Adult tickets £8 (for one day), OAPs £6 and children free.
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14
n ON THE BEAT
thornburyvoice
May, 2017
Beware of rogue traders
PC Sean White
WE’VE teamed up with South Gloucestershire Council Trading Standards to prevent vulnerable people in our community from falling victim to rogue traders. Rogue traders call door-todoor and try to talk householders into having unnecessary work done, overcharge or leave jobs unfinished. We’ve visited local builders’ merchants and banks to make sure they know when and how to report suspicious incidents. Older people, who are more likely to be at home during the day, are unduly affected by doorstep crime, which also includes coldcallers selling overpriced products and distraction burglars conning their way into homes in order to steal. However, these crooks can be deterred, so I’d ask you to help to keep vulnerable elderly relatives,
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neighbours and friends safe by sharing our tips: • Remember, it’s ok to say no! • Always use the safety chain and ask to see ID • Check ID by calling the organisation using a number from the phone book or your bill • D on’t be rushed – if they’re genuine they won’t mind coming back another time, when you can have someone with you • Remember you should always have a ‘cooling off’ period before work starts • If you need work done, get three quotes from reputable local tradespeople – ask for recommendations from family or friends • Never give cash upfront • Keep your money in the bank, rather than at home • If you’re suspicious of a caller, do give us a call on 101 with a
description of them and any vehicle. If you feel intimidated or alarmed, call 999 straight away. I’m pleased to report that the anti-social behaviour (ASB) we told you about last month is beginning to improve. Often teenagers involved in ASB simply haven’t thought about the impact and consequences of their behaviour on others – or themselves. We’re working with other agencies, parents, carers, the community and young people themselves to raise awareness. For example the Krunch youth group and the fire service teamed up with us to run a session at the fire station to demonstrate the dangers of starting fires. When we identify young people persistently involved in ASB we’ll continue to use the legislation available to us to deal with them.
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May, 2017
15
n NEWS
Plea for parents to get their children vaccinated HUNDREDS of children in South Gloucestershire have missed key vaccination doses or not been immunised at all. Now a new campaign has been launched to urge parents and carers to check their child’s vaccinations are up to date in order to protect them from serious diseases and to prevent outbreaks of the illnesses. Health experts said the majority of parents made sure their youngsters were protected through childhood immunisation from diseases such as some strains of meningitis, diphtheria, measles, mumps, rubella and whooping cough. Successful vaccination programmes had helped to make such diseases much rarer but they were still in circulation and if vaccination levels fell, the likelihood of an outbreak was
increased. Last year, 91 per cent of South Gloucestershire children had received both doses of the MMR jab, leaving 293 potentially unprotected. Similarly, 93 per cent of eligible youngsters had received the four-in-one pre-school booster, with 239 not fully protected against the risk of diphtheria, polio, tetanus and whooping cough. It is likely that these children missed other earlier jabs too. The NHS said it was particularly important for a child to be up to date with their vaccinations before starting school, as this was when they came into contact with many more potential sources of infection. Nigel Acheson, Medical Director for NHS England South,
said: “While the majority of parents are ensuring their child is fully vaccinated, many children are still missing doses, putting them at risk. “Vaccination protects children and the wider population from serious diseases and it is vital that they complete all the doses to build up the right levels of protection, particularly before they go to school. He said parents should speak to their GP practice to check if their child was up-to-date with their jabs.
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Theatre school to stage Dylan Thomas drama in Armstrong Hall ACTING students at Bristol Old Vic Theatre School will be bringing their production of Under Milk Wood to Thornbury. They have included the Armstrong Hall in a West Country tour of Dylan Thomas’ tale of the people of the fictitious fishing village of Llareggub. The performance on Saturday, June 17, starts at 7.30pm and is part of a series of events to raise funds for the first phase of the hall redevelopment project. Tickets cost £14 - or £10 for under-18s - and can be bought in Thornbury Town Hall or by phoning 01454 412272
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n NEWS
May, 2017
Following the trail of art Claims of “broken” housing around the Severn Vale market as buyers struggle with new home prices ONE of the most popular events of the year is now underway in and around Thornbury with the opening of the Severn Vale Art Trail. Organisers hope the success of the trail will continue this year, with the work of more than 60 artists on show in studios and exhibition sites from April 28. Thornbury hosts the biggest number of venues but those following the trail can also travel down to Alveston and Olveston in one direction and up to Dursley, North Nibley and Berkeley in the other to see a wide range of displays. Among the locations in Thornbury is the town museum in Chapel Street, which features three artists throughout the event and is staying open for longer to allow as many people as possible to see the work and chat to whichever artists are present. Claire Alway creates glass engravings; Rosemary Millar’s
hand-crafted silver and gold jewellery with semi-precious stones has proved a big hit in previous years, while painter and printmaker Robert Hirstwood makes up the trio. A group exhibition is running at The Elms in Earthcott, Alveston, featuring woodturning, painting, glassware and textiles, and visitors to Olveston can call into St Mary’s Church - one of two venues in the village - where three artists have combined to display their work. The trail runs until May 7 as part of Thornbury Arts Festival, with information on all the locations and opening tines on the festival website. Brochures giving full details are also available from Thornbury Town Hall and other outlets. Anyone unable to follow the trail will be able to see an exhibition of work by some members of the art trail group from May 5-13 in the town hall.
What’s on at The Swan May 2017 May Day Sunday 30th Ezzy’s May Day charity event starts at 12 mid-day Monday May 1st 5pm Prize Bingo for Ezzy Thursday 4th Quiz for Ezzy at 8.30pm Saturday 6th Lids Sponsored Walk for Ezzy from the Swan at 2.30 to the Cross Hands where refreshments will be provided for the kids. The child that makes the most money will win a high-street voucher of £20 Friday 12th Coffee morning for Ezzy between 9.30 and 12.00. Cake stall and other activities with a free raffle ticket for every hot drink sold. Prize: a meal voucher of £20 to be used in The Swan Saturday 21st Skittles Match and killer skittles at 7.30pm. A chance to win a hamper Thursday 25th Ezzys Musical Bingo at 8.30pm Sunday 28th Spring Fun Day for Ezzy from 12noon: live music: BBQ: Double C’S bar (Cider and Cocktail Bar). All proceeds for the cider will be donated to Ezzy. Manpower Auction: come and bid for a person with a trade that you need: kids stalls with ice cream supplied by Ivor’s Ice Cream.
COUNCILLORS have spoken of a “broken” housing market in South Gloucestershire, with people in areas such as Thornbury having to earn high salaries to be able to afford a starter home. In a recent South Gloucestershire Council debate on affordable housing, Thornbury South and Alveston councillor Maggie Tyrrell said: “We’re not against development in Thornbury but we are against poorly planned development. “I know of a young person with every advantage, who went looking for an affordable home, and was told to ‘try Westonsuper-Mare’. “It is completely ridiculous. Developers are putting up large, five-bedroom homes then the town is importing families to fill them. “We’re not addressing the need for smaller homes for
younger people and smaller families - people who have grown up in the area and want to continue living there.” Westerleigh’s Claire Young, the Liberal Democrat spokeswoman for the environment and community services on the council, said: “To buy a three bedroom starter home at 80 per cent of market value, people in a town like Thornbury would need to earn around £39,000 a year - £10,000 more than the median income. “Even our so-called ‘affordable’ schemes are only accessible to the well-off. “Councils should be able to adopt policies that are appropriate for their local area. There are huge discrepancies around the national housing market and we have some of the highest prices outside of London.''
Frampton Cotterell man debuts new album FRAMPTON man John Douglas will be revealing his band’s new album at a special concert in Bristol this summer. September Song’s new release ‘The arrogance of time’ will be showcased on Thursday July 6 at the Cube Cinema in Bristol. September Song is the latest collaboration between John and Steve Hogg, alumni of Bristol favourites including; Wushcatte,
Kid Sinister and Augustine. Over the last twenty years, John and Steve have been signed to Atlantic Records and EMI, amongst others, and have a loyal cult following, especially in Germany and Japan. The album and live band features a cast of local musicians who make up the fifteen-piece line up.
Help us reach our 15k target by the end of May. Our Charity of the month is Thornbury Volunteer Centre - weekly quiz at 8.30pm every Wednesday.
www.swanthornbury.co.uk Contact us on 01454 413062 enquiries@swanthornbury.co.uk The Swan, High St, Thornbury, Bristol, BS35 2AE
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May, 2017
17
n COMMUNITY NEWS
News from 4th Thornbury Brownies 4TH Thornbury Brownies have had a busy and exciting term including a visit from local artist, Lorna Page for a drawing and flower arranging workshop. They also started their STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths) challenge badge which included experimenting with omitting ingredients from a cake recipe and dissecting flowers, and completed their hostess badge while raising money for their adventure weekend to PGL with a coffee evening. The girls have also attended local division events: a disco and movie night, been to the cinema to see Beauty and the Beast and had a visit from Eco Animal Encounters where they were able to handle a snake, tarantula and large toad, saw how a scorpion fluoresced under UV light and touched a bearded dragon and large tortoise. Girlguiding Severnvale are looking for volunteers to help young girls grow in Guiding. Register your interest by visiting the Girlguiding website; https://enquiryv.girlguiding.org.uk/
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18
n WHAT’S ON IN OUR AREA 19 May n Concert at St Helen's Church, Alveston on Friday May 19th 8pm. Simon Mayor and Hilary James bring together exquisite music, poetry and humour. Tickets £13 from Steve on 07760 991297 or steve.c.hitchins@gmail.com. 17 & 20 May n Thornbury Methodist players “Look who’s talking” – a comedy by Derek Benfield. Wednesday May 17th – Saturday may 20th 7.45Pm. Thornbury methodist Church Hall Tickets £7 01454 414749/ 01454 600503 or on the door. First night charity cancer research UK. 20 May n Bullfish Craft and Therapy Charity Fayre'. At Chipping Sodbury Town Hall on 20th May from 10.30am -3.30pm. Refreshments available. 20 & 23 May n Alveston Singers Invite you to our Spring Concerts Vivaldi Gloria and Magnificat. With A Selection of Choral Classics, Soloists from Bath Spa University. Conductor James Davies, Accompanist Sue PhillipsonMasters. Saturday May 20th Thornbury Baptist Church 7.30pm. Tuesday May 23rd St. Helen’s Church, Alveston 7.30pm. Retiring collection for The Julian Trust – a charity for the homeless
Off the Record – a mental health charity for young people. 25 May n Avon Organic Group The local group for everyone interested in organic gardening and organic foods. Our last meeting before the summer break is on Thursday, 25th May 2017, 7pm – 9pm at The Station (in the Dance Studio), Silver Street, Bristol. BS1 2AG. 25th May 2017: Talk "Pests & Diseases" with Tim Foster, local author & lecturer. We will be holding our annual Plant sale on the night so bring along any spare plants and seedlings too. All welcome. Visitors £5/Members £2. www.groworganicbristol.org / secretaryaog@gmail.com 30 June n Bite Size Theatre. Journeyman Theatre Productions are performing four ten minute comedy plays between the courses of a fine four course meal. The Park Hotel, Falfield. Tel 01454 260550 for tickets (£35) Friday 30th June 2017, 7pm.
Bingo for Ezzy n Thursday 4th Quiz for Ezzy at 8.30pm n Saturday 6th Lids Sponsored Walk for Ezzy from the Swan at 2.30 to the Cross Hands where refreshments will be provided for the kids. The child that makes the most money will win a high-street voucher of £20 n Friday 12th Coffee morning for Ezzy between 9.30 and 12.00. Cake stall and other activities with a free raffle ticket for every hot drink sold. Prize: a meal voucher of £20 to be used in The Swan
n May Day Sunday 30th Ezzy’s May Day charity event starts at 12 mid-day n Monday May 1st 5pm Prize
We would love to publicise your event Send details of your events and activities in the following format:
WHAT IT IS WHERE IT IS WHEN IT IS in no more than 40 words: email us at: contact@thornburyvoice. co.uk
n Saturday 21st Skittles Match and killer skittles at 7.30pm. A chance to win a hamper n Thursday 25th Ezzys Musical Bingo at 8.30pm n Sunday 28th Spring Fun Day for Ezzy from 12noon: live music: BBQ: Double C’S bar (Cider and Cocktail Bar). All proceeds for the cider will be donated to Ezzy. Manpower Auction: come and bid for a person with a trade that you need: kids stalls with ice cream supplied by Ivor’s Ice Cream.
Regular events 'Ezzy's Wish To Walk' at The Swan
May, 2017
Monday n 7.00 pm Armstrong Hall Cossham Hall World Dance 7pm - 10 pm Tuesday n 11.00 am - 1.30 pm Armstrong Hall - Excell Room
Recycled Teenagers Lunch Club Wednesday n 2.00 pm Armstrong Hall Cossham Hall Tea Dance 01454 412060 n 2.00 pm. Armstrong Hall, Committee Room Lip Reading Classes Thursday n 8.00 pm. Armstrong Hall Ceroc Dance Friday n 2.00 pm. Armstrong Hall Committee Room Canasta Club n Alveston: Marlwood School Marlwood Folk Companions 7:45 – 9:15pm (term time only). 01454 414365 Peter.sumner@ btopenworld.com
What’s on at Thornbury Library Like us on facebook: www. Facebook.Com/sgloslibraries Follow us on twitter: @ southgloslibs Looking for opening times, service information or contact details? See our website www. Southglos.Gov.Uk/libraries Digital library services 365/24/7 All library buildings wi ll be closed on bank holiday mondays 1 May & 29 May. Digital services are available 365/24/7 at www.Librarieswest. Org.Uk Log-in with your borrower number (as printed on your card) and your 4 digit pin. If you don’t know your pin reset it easily by
selecting “forgot my pin” and an email with reset instructions will be sent to the email address we hold for you. Severn Vale Art Trail At Thornbury Library 28 April – 6 May. Pick up your free printed guide - which includes the map of venues - from the library. Watch the slideshow of selected art & photography from this year’s featured artists on our big screen, during library hours (closed sundays & thursdays). Thornbury Arts Festival Saturday Morning Box Office Saturday 6 May 10am-12. Come to the library to buy your tickets for this year’s thornbury arts
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festival (5-14 may). Discover this year’s dazzling line-up in the printed programme, available from the library, or browse online www.Thornburyartsfestival.Com Craft & chat drop-in Saturday 20 may 2pm-4pm Calling all knitters, crocheters, and all people who love to make things. A chance for people who love crafting to get together and share inspiration. No charge and no booking required. Just turn up and bring your craft project with you. Drop-in for free half-term holiday childrens stories & crafts
Tuesday 30 may 11-12. Drop in anytime between 11-12 noon for free family fun, aimed at primaryaged children. Adult supervision required, no child under 8 years to be left unattended. Free Computer Support – available at Thornbury Library Drop-in without an appointment on monday mornings 10-12 to see mike, our computer volunteer. Mike can help with quick enquiries. Bring your device and charger with you and connect to our free wifi, or use a library computer (at no cost). Our computer volunteers only offer support in the library and not in customers’ homes.
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thornburyvoice
May, 2017
19
n VIEW FROM THORNBURY AND DISTRICT MUSEUM With Thornbury Grammar School
A WEBSITE that was created to build up a collection of former Thornbury Grammar School memorabilia has just become the responsibility of the museum. The site was originally developed by Mick Munns, a pupil at the school in the late 1950s and early 1960s who went on to become a biochemist. Born in West Yorkshire in 1947, Mick and his family moved to the Bristol area when he was young. Mick later studied at Exeter University and despite moving away from the area, continued to have a strong interest in his schooldays, including attending reunions and developing the website. With the help of Dave Webb, Mick gathered together a collection of photographs and thanks to him putting this information online, a lasting record is now available to everyone. Material on the website features not only the school itself but also its teachers and pupils. Changes in fashions alone give a fascinating record of social change from the late nineteenth century to the 1970s. After Mick’s death, the website was taken over by Steve Heaven of Thornet but when he retired, the museum agreed to take over responsibility for it and preserve the collection. The school has a long history, with an original free school in existence in Castle Street in 1606 and probably much earlier. In 1869 the charity
Grammar School, Gloucester Road, circa 1932
commissioners suggested merging the school, which was already referred to as a grammar school, with Attwell’s Free School in St Mary Street. Ten years later, the new Thornbury Grammar School was formally established and George Nixon was appointed headmaster, a position he held for the next 28 years. The Castle Street premises were also sold and a piece of land in Gloucester Road bought, on which the first schoolroom was built. At first only boys were taught but in 1906 a
new classroom was built and alterations made to admit girls. Further development over the following years led to the school having more than 600 pupils on roll by 1956. The Thornbury Grammar School name survived for 93 years but it closed in 1972 when the staff and pupils were moved to Marlwood School in Alveston, leaving the Gloucester Road site
to be taken over by the Castle School and used as their sixth form block. Visit www. thornburygrammar.org.uk for further information about the school and to view the collection of pictures, Information and photographs courtesy of Thornbury and District Museum.
Headmaster John Rouch and pupils in the 1950s on their way to St Mary’s church for the Founders’ Day service.
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May, 2017
n NEWS
Golden line-up for Badminton Horse Trials with top riders from Rio Olympics OLYMPIC medallists are among leading riders looking for glory at this year’s Mitsubishi Motors Badminton Horse Trials. Individual gold and team silver medallist Michael Jung prepared for Rio 2016 by winning Badminton for the first time just a few months before the Games. He now returns to South Gloucestershire with hopes of retaining the title with his top horse La Biosthetique Sam. Among challengers to the German rider will be his compatriot Ingrid Klimke, while France’s Astier Nicolas - team gold and individual silver in Rio - will be in familiar territory at Badminton, having previously been based in Chipping Sodbury. British team stalwarts Kristina Gifford and Nicola Wilson are in the mix, with Kitty King hoping to impress after her Olympic debut with Ceylor Lan. Oliver Townend would like a second Badminton victory after his first success in 2009, while UK-based New Zealander Andrew Nicholson will be back in action at the prestigious event after suffering a serious neck injury in 2015. Although Nicholson’s miraculous recovery saw him competing again within months of surgery, he pulled out of last year’s Badminton through lack of fitness. He has two horses entered this year, including his stable star Nereo, and is keen to win the international having achieved a record 35 completions without victory. Other Kiwis lining up are Mark Todd, Tim Price and Caroline Powell, with Australia fielding former Badminton winners Sam Griffiths and Paul Tapner, along with potential favourite Christopher Burton.
Victoria Hanson with her prize winning cross-country fence. ©Kit Houghton/Mitsubishi Motors This year’s cross-country course, designed for the first time by Eric Winter, has been described as chunky. Badminton regulars include the lake complex, Huntsman’s Close and fences at the quarry but Winter has also reintroduced a 1980s classic, the KBIS Bridge, and a revamp of a thick rail over a ditch - the Rolex Grand Slam Trakehner. The new PHEV Corral should be influential and the four-mile, 30-fence course is completed by the Mitsubishi Final Mount, an obstacle designed in a competition won by swimwear creator Victoria Hanson after 13,000 votes were cast online. Badminton runs from May 4-7 with two days of dressage followed by cross-country action and the final show jumping. The Mitsubishi Motors Cup competition for amateur riders is on May 3.
New course designer Eric Winter at the lake complex of fences at Badminton. Picture ©Kit Houghton/Mitsubishi Motors
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May, 2017
21
n NEWS
Walk for Glo brings in £14,000 A BRISTOL Rovers fan has smashed a £10,000 fundraising target in memory of his wife Gloria who died following complications during brain surgery. Mark Brimson raised an incredible £14,000 - which included on and offline donations - for Headway Bristol, a charity that helps people with brain injuries live as independently as possible. It follows a number of fundraisers, the most notable being a recent 'Walk for Glo" sponsored trek with eight friends from the home of Plymouth Argyle FC to Bristol Rovers' base at the Memorial Stadium. His sterling efforts have not gone unnoticed and now Mark
has been asked to become an ambassador for the charity. "It's a massive privilege for me," Mark said. "It means I can carry on doing things for the charity and raising money. We will probably do another event with the team that did the walk as they are all really keen." The walk took place from March 20-24 and involved the team of nine walking around eight hours a day and covering a total of 127 miles. Mark, 42, said: "The first sense was that of relief! I'm really proud of the whole team.
Everyone was fantastic" For Mark, pictured left punching the air as he crosses tbe finish line, the campaign was a positive way to mark the 10th anniversary of his wife Gloria's death. Gloria, who was 33 when she died, was diagnosed with an AVM - Arteriovenous Malformation - a cluster of abnormal blood vessels in the brain. She underwent a 15-hour operation to remove the vessels but sadly died on June 7, 2007 from complications. He said: "I set out with the aim that the fundraising would help me move forward and get on with my life and I feel like I've been able to achieve that." Mark, who runs a business providing till systems and credit and debit card machines, said the walk had cemented great friendships.
"We all kept each other going. There were some tough moments because 26 miles a day is one hell of a trek. Everyone brought something different to the mix and it was a fantastic experience. Gloria's sister walked the last couple of miles with us, which was great. "Everything changed for us on the Friday afternoon when Headway Bristol brought along the people who use their services to meet us. We realised what this was all about - helping others and that was a big moment for us. Having come out of the worst experience of my life, it was quite nice to experience one of the best. I think Gloria would have been really proud." Mark is organising a dinner and dance at the Holiday Inn, Filton on Friday June 9 and tickets cost £39. To book email markbrimson@gmail.com To donate to the Gloria Brimson Foundation for Headway Bristol visit https:// www.justgiving.com/ fundraising/Mark-Brimson1
Man takes on 266-mile charity challenge BEING able to get to hospital before the baby arrives can keep some expectant parents awake at night, however in some parts of the world accessing medical care during labour is impossible. But a man from Frampton Cotterell is hoping his sporting efforts this year will help change this. Alan West has already successfully completed the Paris Marathon in 5 hours (and in 26-degree heat), but the 40-yearold will have little time to recover as his focus moves to his next physical trial - a London to Paris cycling challenge which covers 240 miles. Alan chose to sign up to the two gruelling sporting events to help raise the profile of Transaid. The international development organisation, for which Mr West is an ambassador, works to transform lives through safe, available, and sustainable transport in economically developing
countries. People living in rural areas of Africa often struggle to access vital services. Around 75% of maternal deaths can be avoided through timely access to vital childbirth-related care. In sub-Saharan Africa, road deaths are the third biggest killer following HIV/AIDS and Malaria. Transaid is working with partners and governments to train driver trainers. Its driver training programmes make drivers more competent, vehicles safer, and reduces death and injury on the road. Alan, who works for DHL Supply Chain, said “My day job involves improving driver safety and efficiency through good practice and new technology. When I first heard about Transaid and what they do I was blown away by the statistics.” “The Paris Marathon was an amazing experience, exhausting but well worth the hours of training, the sore feet and the
numerous injuries I picked up along the way including a stress fracture – luckily this was all healed before the big day.” “I’m allowing myself a few days off the training before I jump on my bike in preparation for my next challenge.” The Transaid European Cycling Challenge starts on 22 September. He has set himself a fundraising target of £1,600 for the two events with all money raised going straight to the charity. JustGiving page is www.justgiving. com/fundraising/ AlWestParisMarathon He’s also hoping for corporate sponsorship and can be contracted at alwestparischallenges@ gmail.com or 07771 506549.
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May, 2017
23
n NEWS
Cinema celebration brings movie magic to Thornbury A FIESTA of favourite film songs will entertain audiences in a concert staged by Thornbury Musical Theatre Group. Singers, dancers and a live band will feature in A Night at the Movies - billed as a celebration of the silver screen. There will be two performances of the summer showcase in the town’s Armstrong Hall on Friday and Saturday, June 2 and 3, both starting at 7.30pm. Tickets for the event cost £10 and can be bought online at www.tmtg.org.uk or from the box office on 07516 270140. They will also be on sale at the Lisa Costa estate agency in Thornbury’s High Street after April 29.
Warning to car and van owners to protect their property after spate of thefts DRIVERS in Thornbury and Alveston have been warned to protect their vehicles after a number were broken into recently. Over a two-month period, officers received 16 reports of thefts or attempted thefts from cars and vans, with tools, loose change, a holdall of clothes, a dash cam and number plates among items taken. Some vehicles had their windows smashed but nothing was taken and one incident involved a car being broken into and the thieves making off empty-handed when the alarm sounded. Most of the vehicles were in streets across Thornbury, with three broken into in Alveston and one in Milbury Heath. Some incidents happened overnight while one happened in broad
daylight while the vehicle was unattended for less than 30 minutes. Neighbourhood PC Natalie Jones said: “It’s important to empty vehicles of valuables, lock then and set the alarm when left. “I know it’s not always possible for van drivers to take everything out of their vehicle but ideally tools and equipment should be kept in a secure box or cage anchored inside the van.” PC Jones urged people to make tools and equipment identifiable to help deter thieves or reunite owners with their property if recovered. They can also be registered at www. immobilise.com Other means of protection include parking a van with the rear access doors against a wall or another vehicle.
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n EDUCATION
May, 2017
Crisis in South Glos schools as funds squeezed Education in South Gloucestershire is facing a double challenge. Secondary schools are underperforming and must make rapid improvements - while at the same time managing the huge budget pressures affecting schools at all levels. Leaders, teachers, parents and councillors are rising up to tackle the crisis, which is sure to be a big issue in the general election campaign. Linda Tanner reports MORE than 300 people turned out for a public meeting to launch the Fair Funding for all Schools - South Glos campaign and hundreds more have signed a petition calling for action. So what’s it all about? Doesn’t the Government keep telling us that it is spending more on education than ever? Yes, Kevin Courtney, general secretary of the National Union of Teachers, told the meeting at the Holiday Inn in Hambrook on April 6, that’s true - but only because there are more schools and more children than before. Individually, almost all schools are facing a squeeze
on their budgets that is going to get worse, even before the introduction of the proposed new National Funding Formula in April 2018. Increased National Insurance and pension contributions, wage rises and the apprenticeship levy mean that in real terms schools are set to have about eight per cent less money, according to the National Audit Office. These constraints will force them to make tough choices: cutting jobs, reducing the curriculum and stopping trips and after-school clubs. Head teachers say they are torn between wanting parents to
be aware of the financial realities yet trying to reassure them that schools will do their very best for the children with the money they have available. A website set up by the NUT and other unions - schoolcuts. org - gives predictions for every school in England and the budget crisis each could face by 2020 based on Department for
Education figures. It is these forecasts that have provoked anger around the country, feelings are running particularly high in South Gloucestershire, which has historically been one of the worst funded local authorities in the country. Schools in the district receive per-pupil funding that is several hundred pounds below
You can win this battle, parents are told PARENTS will this month step up their campaign for more money for South Gloucestershire schools after what they describe as a phenomenal start. The organisers of Fair Funding for all Schools - South Glos were overwhelmed when 300 people turned up for their meeting at the Holiday Inn on April 6. And they were encouraged by the message from Kevin Courtney, general secretary of the National Union of Teachers, who said he believed they could win their battle. The meeting heard from a number of speakers, including Angela Athay-Hunt, who read out anonymous quotes from
school staff including one that said: “This has to be led by parents. ‘They’ won’t listen to teachers.” Mr Courtney said the power of the campaign was that it could be supported by parents across the country, no matter which political party they voted for or which way they cast their ballot in the referendum. No parent had voted for the increased class sizes, reduced opportunities for dance, drama and PE and cuts in individual support that would come about if, as expected, schools across England had £3bn less a year to spend. “If you think education’s expensive, try ignorance,” he said.
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Sixth former George Angus said it was heart-breaking that children just starting out in education would get a less good deal than those who were about to leave school. Schools were reducing their curriculum offer at a time when they should be increasing it to meet 21st century needs, he said. George also voiced concerns about cuts to special educational needs funding and the impact on young people’s mental health. Speakers from the panel and the floor spoke of the workload pressures that were driving teachers out of their jobs, prompting a recruitment and retention crisis. A university student said teaching was
becoming a taboo profession, with young people reluctant to go into training because of the stress levels. Parents, governors, teachers and students voiced their concerns and vowed to take further action to highlight the crisis. Nigel Varley, from the National Union of Teachers, urged people to demand that the management of their local schools issued impact assessments on the cuts. Parent Rish Shellard, who has children at schools in Bromley Heath and Winterbourne, who started the local campaign, said protesters should “shout loud” and spread the word.
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May, 2017
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FAIR FUNDING FOR ALL SCHOOLS - SOUTH GLOS fffassouthglos@gmail.com Facebook: https:// www.facebook.com/ groups/650593441811495/ Twitter @FairFundSGlos PETITIONS https://www.change.org/p/ stop-unfair-school-fundingin-south-gloucestershire 2,625 SIGNATURES https://www.change.org/p/ stop-school-funding-cutsall-our-children-deserve-agreat-education 37,990 SIGNATURES
that for Bristol, for example. The National Funding Formula was supposed to iron out those differences, but campaigners say 98 per cent of children across the land will be worse off. Some Conservative MPs are putting pressure on Ministers to think again, and their views are shared by Tory
leaders on South Gloucestershire Council. That’s why Fair Funding for all Schools is urging parents, teachers and governors to lobby their local MPs - none of whom has yet spoken out against the formula - to persuade them to join the protest. Ofsted concerns: Page 26
Decision delay 'is causing distress and uncertainty' THE delay over selecting a new permanent sponsor for Winterbourne International Academy came under fire from parents and councillors. Parent Debbie Porteous and Lib Dem Councillor Claire Young, who has a child due to start at the academy this year, said the hold-up was having an impact on students, families, staff and school leaders. It was causing uncertainty and distress, especially for those children due to make the critical transition from primary school in the summer, Ms Porteous told the South Glos CAH meeting. Ms Young said parents and children were concerned after being told the decision about which trust should take over from The Ridings Federation would be after the start of the 2017-18 academic year. Nigel Varley, from the National Union of Teachers, said: “The whole Ridings saga is an absolute tragedy.” Jo Thomas, deputy director of the office of the Regional Schools Commissioner (RSC), said the RSC needed to see the exam results for WIA and for the schools in the two trusts providing support, CSET and Olympus, first. “We need to see the outcomes and impact. Winterbourne presents many challenges. We don’t want to undermine the strength or capacity of those two trusts by approving a sponsor match without being assured they are able to deliver,” she said.
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26
n NEWS
thornburyvoice
May, 2017
Ofsted chief: Urgent action needed to improve schools COUNCILLORS from all parties have agreed that all 70 members of South Gloucestershire Council share a “moral imperative" to seek rapid improvements to secondary education in the district. Sixteen of the area’s 17 schools were below the national average for GCSE results for disadvantaged students last year - a situation described as “dire” and “unacceptable”. The issue was in the spotlight at a meeting of the council’s Children, Adults and Health Committee on April 5, attended by the regional director of Ofsted Bradley Simmons and Jo Thomas, the deputy director of the office of the Regional Schools Commissioner (RSC). Mr Simmons said South Gloucestershire’s educational underperformance was his biggest concern in the whole of the South West and he had the area under “special supervision”. He said he felt that school leaders and council officers had finally “grasped the nettle of accountability” and understood the scale of the problem, but he was waiting to see the impact of the measures put in place before deciding if he needed to write a
warning letter. Mr Simmons said that the fact that 15 of the 17 secondaries were academies, having opted out of the local authority, did not mean the council had no responsibility for them. It was part of the authority’s general duty to monitor the schools, hold them to account and intervene if necessary, he said. “It is absolutely your place to challenge schools you don’t think are doing well enough,” he said. Ms Thomas said the RSC Rebecca Clark, who has ultimate responsibility for overseeing all academies in the region, was absolutely clear that schools and multi academy trusts must work in partnership with local authorities. She was reassured by the renewed ambition and said the 2017 outcomes would be incredibly important for South Gloucestershire. Conservative councillor Ben Stokes said members had often felt frustrated and powerless to intervene in schools. “We have a responsibility to monitor and comment but feel very remote from direct involvement,” he said. “We do have a lot of wisdom to offer.” Liberal Democrat councillor
Ian Blair said this had been a problem even before academisation. “It has been very difficult to get them [schools] to cooperate with one another in an effective way,” he said. Will Roberts, chief executive of CSET, the multi-academy trust that runs the Castle School in Thornbury and Marlwood School in Alveston, and leader of the South Gloucestershire Education Partnership, which involves all schools, admitted that while there had been “a veneer of collaboration” in the past it had not been deep seated or focused on standards. Now, he said, with many new headteachers in place and the multi academy trusts becoming established, a cultural change was taking place. Trusts, schools and individuals were working together to drive improvements with greater pace and intensity and tackle the legacy of underperformance. Checks were being carried out with a “timescale of weeks rather than years” and leaders were holding one another to account. Labour councillor Gareth Manson and Pat Rooney said school leaders had been saying
for two years that things would start to get better and it was time to see some new initiatives and a strategy that would bring results. The funding crisis facing schools in South Gloucestershire also came under discussion. Debbie Porteous, from the Fair Funding for all Schools - South Glos said children in school now were the victims of poor political decisions and a lack of funding. Nigel Varley, from the National Union of Teachers, called on councillors to support the parents’ campaign and put pressure on Ministers, who he said were “wobbling under mounting national pressure”. Committee chairman Jon Hunt (Conservative) said the council had made it clear to Government that it believed South Gloucestershire schools needed additional funding and had asked Ministers for a meeting, so far to no avail. Labour’s councillor Adam Monk said councillors should not underestimate the strength of public anger about the underfunding of schools, which was outlined in a letter to all parents by Dave Baker, the chief executive of Olympus Academy Trust.
Free booklet up for grabs in libraries A FREE booklet which helps parents get their child to sleep is up for grabs in libraries in South Gloucestershire. The Bath, Book, Bed booklet features top tips and advice from TV parenting expert Jo Frost as part of an initiative encouraging families to make stories part of every child’s bedtime routine. Jo says reading a book before bed as part of a regular nightly routine is the perfect way to get your little one ready to visit the land of nod. Bedtime routines are associated with improved sleep in young children and benefits include earlier bedtimes, a shorter amount of time in bed before falling asleep, less night-
wakings and sleeping for longer. Bedtime reading has the added bonus of feeding a child's imagination, creativity and confidence. Children who are read to every night start school ahead of those who aren’t - and the gap only widens as they get older. Mother of Sophia, aged two, said: “We visit the library every week and choose books which I read to Sophia before bedtime. I believe that reading to Sophia everyday helps her language development and greatly helps with her creative play.” Downend librarian Helen Egarr said: "The library has lots of lovely picture books for you to choose from and they are all free
to borrow. There are no library fines for children and no charge for any damage to books taken out by children under five." Visit www.southglos.gov. uk/childrenslibrary to find your
nearest library or go to www. booktrust.org.uk/bathbookbed to download the booklet and get more practical ideas and tips for making stories part of your child’s bedtime routine.
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May, 2017
27
n TAKE A BREAK PUZZLES FOR EVERYONE Adult puzzles Children’s puzzles WORDSEARCH
2
Y H B D E N G I N E E R W W F U X I
C Y A U A Q L K C G A P R I N T E R
H S R A C L A B O U R E R B Y O J E
O I S P H T T G U L C D D P U R C C
L C T I E K U T R E H O I V B Y H T
O I A L R L R I I C I S O D A F E O
G S F O I A N W E T T U D K R S M R
I T F T I B E C R U E R C R R U I W
S D D N S L R F L R C G A Y I R S A
T U E E D Q M A A E T E S B S V T I
E R N E S A B B R R A O H C T E E T
D F R U N I P N A I M N I L E Y Q R
I C D A R B G A I K A E E E R O O E
T V G Q B S L N R O E N R R H R L S
O E G A R D E N E R R R C K B A W S
R H T O L A W Y E R F S Z C H E F O
3 4 1 3
Each horizontal row, each 2x2 square and each column must contain all the numbers 1-4, only once each.
SOLUTIONS
S P H O T O G R A P H E R S U T Z D
TXT PERT
P S X T R A N S L A T O R A Z S W D
EASY for children
Across 2 Altar, 6 Nun, 7 Shrine, 9 Imam, 10 Hell, 11 God Down 1 Sin, 3 Taoism, 4 Reverend, 5 Instill, 8 Myth
Can you find 41 jobs or professions vertically, horizontally or diagonally?
SUDOKU
A-MAZING
There’s only one way to help the dog find her bone – but which is it?
TXT PERT
The numbers point you to the letters on a phone keypad
Clues Across 2 25827 (5) 6 686 (3) 7 747463 (6) 9 4626 (4) 10 4355 (4) 11 463 (3)
Down 1 746 (3) 3 826476 (6) 4 73837363 (8) 5 4678455 (7) 8 6984 (4)
2 is A, B or C 3 is D, E or F 4 is G, H or I 5 is J, K, or L
6 is M, N or O 7 is P, Q, R or S 8 is T, U or V 9 is W, X, Y or Z
1
2
3
4
5 6 7 8 9
10
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n SPORT
May, 2017
Tennis club ready for the summer THORNBURY Lawn Tennis Club says it’s looking forward to the warmer days with a busy summer shedule. The President’s Plate tournament, a mixed doubles event for club members, is set to be one of the highlights. Last year’s winners, Brendan Wilde and Megan O’Connor, will be defending their title, although there is likely to be stiff competition from several other pairs. The event will be followed immediately by the club’s Wimbledon Draw. The club has 13 pairs of tickets for Wimbledon which will be distributed to eligible members through a ballot. The allocation includes a pair of tickets for the ladies’ singles final. The club has also entered 10 teams of four players in the Avon Summer League. Each team will play five home and five away matches against teams from other tennis clubs in the Avon area. It is hoped the club
will be represented by more than 60 members through the league programme. The Club Annual Tournament for members is also likely to be a busy time, with mens and ladies singles as well as Men’s, Ladies and Mixed Doubles. The highlight of last year’s event was the success of two 12 year olds, Luke Johnson and Brooke Daunton, in winning the Mixed Doubles title. As well as the tournaments, the club also has five Club Sessions each week, making use of the facilities that have had over £120,000 invested in them recently. It’s also looking for new members to join the 200 already signed up.
Club Tournament Ladies Final between Sarah Hurley and Megan O’Connor.
Thornbury’s tennis tradition THORNBURY has a long tennis heritage. Records suggest that Real Tennis - an early form of tennis much favoured by Henry VIII - was played at Thornbury Castle on a purpose-built court. The game and court layout that we are familiar with today was conceived during the 1870s and soon became popular at the established universities. Tennis became a hugely popular social activity and several of the larger houses in Thornbury regularly arranged tennis parties on their own grass tennis courts. The game was also played at Thornbury Grammar School.
By 1911, tennis in Thornbury had become sufficiently popular for a tennis club to be formed. The first two courts were built together with a bowling green on part of Lower Marlwood Farm, adjacent to what is now the Mundy Playing Fields. By 1969 the bowling green had been converted into two additional tennis courts and a small clubhouse was constructed. In 1985 the tennis club purchased the adjacent land and four additional courts were constructed together with a larger clubhouse.
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May, 2017
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n SPORT
Thorns snatch defeat from the jaws of victory Kingsbridge 25 - 24 Thornbury Thornbury failed to close out a game they had seemingly won and lost to a long-range injury time penalty in an exciting game in the Devon sunshine. With Thorns two points ahead they chose to play rugby as if to win the match rather than control the last few minutes and close out the game. Despite the defeat, they left Kingsbridge with two points and completed their league campaign in sixth place. Thornbury made several changes for the game and took the opportunity to select three seventeen-year olds in the side. Harry Tarling and Jake Wood joined Rich Bennett and James Donohue in the three-quarters whilst Jake Goodridge made his first start for the First XV in the back row. Tom Luke made his first start since early December whilst Bob Adams continued at fullback. In the forwards Sam Evans’
injury saw Luke Workman move to hooker and with George Sheldon available Jonny Heaven switched to loosehead. George Maggs and Adam Hodgkins were reunited in the second row and Liam Pemberton and Jack Hussey played at 7 and 8 for the twentieth time this season. Kingsbridge relegated and Thorns not going anywhere there was nothing other than pride in the jersey to play for. But Kingsbridge were determined to bow out of South West One on a high. Early on,Thornbuty were penalised and Kingsbridge put the ball in the corner for their forwards to rumble over for a try by lock James Palmer. The conversion went wide but after just three minutes Kingsbridge were 5-0 ahead.
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Brooke Daunton & Luke Johnson (combined age 24 years) won the club Mixed Doubles title last year.
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n SPORT
thornburyvoice
May, 2017
As friendlies begin, cricket club hopes for successful season THORNBURY Cricket Club have been playing pre-season friendlies ahead of what they hope will be another successful campaign. Enjoyable and well contested matches at The Ship Ground against Defan CC from Llanelli and Pak Bristolians, saw half centuries for Josh Slade, Vishal and Luke Davis in the Saturday match, with 85 from Danny Slade and 105 by Marcus Wormwell on Sunday. Claverham is the final friendly before the league season starts on 6 May. Newly appointed first team captain Luke Davis leads Thornbury’s side in the West of England Premier 2 Glos/ Wilts league, with experienced skippers Greg Mallitte, Richard Hawkins and Derek Davis taking
the reigns of the other seniors XI’s. Thornbury are a GCB Focus Club boasting four Saturday league senior teams, as well as Sunday and midweek fixtures. It also has a strong youth section (under 9 to under 19 XI’s), and enjoys a close relationship with Gloucestershire. The club are always on the look out to welcome new members. Thornbury hold senior training on every Tuesday throughout the season, for more information contact Cricket Chairman John Wormwell on 07974 191110 or the clubhouse 01454 4102121. Further information can also be found on the TCC website : www.thornburycc.co.uk.
A sunny start to the season: Thornbury in action at The Ship Ground
Jessie May is charity of year for GCCC JESSIE May, the charity that provides hospice at home services to children with terminal illnesses in Bristol and surrounding areas, has been appointed as Gloucestershire County Cricket Club’s “charity of the year”. The partnership will run for the whole of the 2017 season, with players wearing the Jessie May logo on players’ shirts at the first match on March 28. The charity will have the opportunity to fundraise on match days and hospitality tickets will be given to the charity’s beneficiaries. The sponsorship initiative is also being supported by Bristol financial management business Ovation Finance. Will Brown, Chief Executive of Gloucestershire Cricket, said: “Jessie May is an unbelievable
local charity and one hopefully well known to many of our supporters. This is the first time that the iconic Gloucestershire County Championship ‘Whites’ will bear the name of a charity and we are really excited to be playing a part in making that
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happen. Many thanks to Ovation Finance and all the business and personal supporters who have made this possible in what we hope will be a great year for Jessie May.” Jessie May cares for children with terminal illness in South
Gloucestershire, Bristol, Bath, North Somerset and Wiltshire. It costs about £1,200,000 to provide this care annually and the charity is almost entirely dependent on public support.
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May, 2017
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n SPORT
Gloucestershire legends open new nets ROCKHAMPTON Cricket Club have unveiled their new practice nets ahead of the new season. The £30,000 nets were funded by club fundraising events and a grant from South Gloucestershire Council. The opening event was graced by three Gloucestershire County cricket legends; Andy Brassington, Andy Stovold and Phil Bainbridge. Phil Bainbridge, who made a handful of appearances for Rockhampton after retiring from the professional game, had the honour of bowling the first ball in the new net to Rockhampton’s first team vice-captain, Will Cartlidge. The facility was then opened up to members of Rockhampton’s youth section. Club chairman John Hore said. “These youngsters are the future of cricket not just in our club, but in all cricket clubs. If we want them to stick with the game, to enjoy it and to improve at it, then they need to have the best level of facilities and coaching that we can give them. As a club we are committed to raising the level of cricket we play and provide for the community. Supported by an army of volunteers on whom this club like all other clubs depends, these new nets are part of a larger project to upgrade our whole ground and coaching systems for the future.” Last year, with the help of a loan from the ECB, Rockhampton purchased a strip of land next to their ground
Will Cartlidge (first team vice-captain), Andy Brassington, Andy Stovold, John Hore (chairman), Phil Bainbridge, Alec Hurley (president) and jack Spence (first team captain) to build the new nets. The club have plans to increase the present boundary size and to move and re-lay their pitch square. For such a small, and to some obscure, village the success of Rockhampton cricket club has been remarkable. Their first team play in the West of England Premier Division Two and they have another three senior teams competing in lower leagues. Allied to their friendly and inclusive attitude, the foundation of their growth and success has been their youth section. The vast majority of their senior teams are made up of players who have passed through or are still playing in their youth
Fourth place for Thornbury Town and reserves THORNBURY Town’s first team signed off the season with a win that secured fourth place in the Gloucester County Premier League. They beat Henbury 2-1 away from home with Tom Webb and Jo Guest scoring Thornbury’s goals. The result left them five points ahead of fifth placed Kingwood. The Reserves finished fourth in the Stroud and District division three. Their season wrapped up at the end of March with a win over Cotswold Rangers.
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teams and many of the volunteers who run the club are parents of those past and present youth players. The club runs junior teams from undernines to undernineteen, but is happy to see children from the age of six or seven at its Friday night practices.
Still got it - former Gloucestershire player Phil Bainbridge bowls the first ball at Rockhampton’s new nets
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Email: contact@thornburyvoice.co.uk
Specialist legal advice, right on your doorstep.
Choosing a solicitor doesn’t mean making a choice between convenience and expertise. At Barcan+Kirby we’re perfectly placed to offer you both – all from our branch on your local High Street. We’ve been advising businesses and individuals in Thornbury for over 20 years. Whether you’re buying a home, writing a Will or dealing with the affairs of a loved one, you can find specialist and experienced solicitors nearby. If you have a family matter, we provide much more than just divorce advice - from prenups and cohabitation agreements, through to
financial disputes and child arrangement issues. We can also advise grandparents and other family members. Or if you need help with an employment or commercial matter, talk to us. A member of our team will see you in your local office – at a time that suits you. Convenience is important. But with six offices across Bristol and South Gloucestershire, you can rest assured that you won’t have to travel far for expert legal advice. Professional advice, simply stated.
Barcan+Kirby CLIFTON 199a Whiteladies Rd, Bristol BS8 2SB BEDMINSTER 31 North St, Bristol BS3 1EN KINGSWOOD 111/117 Regent St, Bristol BS15 8LJ HORFIELD 374 Gloucester Rd, Bristol BS7 8TP QUEEN SQUARE 49/50 Queen Sq, Bristol BS1 4LW THORNBURY 36 High St, Thornbury BS35 2AJ
0117 325 2929
info@barcankirby.co.uk
This firm is authorised and regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority. No: 568743.
www.barcankirby.co.uk
@barcankirby