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October, 2017 Issue 7
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Public meeting requested over Armstrong Hall CALLS have been made for a public meeting to debate the future of Thornbury’s Armstrong Hall complex ahead of a decision being made on where a performance venue should be sited. The hall has long been the town’s main location for events such as drama productions and concerts. But it needs a major upgrade if it is to continue in that role
long term and council leaders are considering whether to refurbish the premises or extend the Turnberries community building and transfer performance space to that location instead. That option would then allow the Armstrong Hall to be sold off for redevelopment. A programme of consultation has just ended but there have been concerns among some
residents that a sell-off will take place, despite being told that no decision has yet been made and that people’s views will be taken into consideration. Another way of tackling the issue has also been put forward by those who want to keep the complex - having a new purposebuilt development on the current site in Chapel Street. Full story page 20
Anti-social behaviour crackdown Police launch dedicated patrols in Thornbury PAGE 4
Metrobus to Thornbury? Feasibility study is launched PAGE 11
Public inquiry is new housing battleground Scheme in Falfield referred for decision PAGE 16
Wriggle Jigglers, a young folk band from three three families in Thornbury and Rockhampton, have helped Thornbury Lions celebrate their 30th birthday. More, page 24
You win some, you lose some Thornbury Rugby Club’s season off to a mixed start PAGE 31
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October, 2017
n NEWS
Dance students take their bow on the West End stage
FORTY children from the ages of ten to eighteen are to get the chance to perform at one of the iconic London theatres in October. The Sharon Phillips School of Dancing, which has a base in Alveston, is taking part in the Young Performers show at Her Majesty's Theatre. Sharon told the Voice: “It is a great opportunity to be able to give the children a chance to dance on a west end stage where Phantom of the Opera is staged.” The girls have been rehearsing since April, performing two ballet dances and one modern dance. The costumes have been ordered from America.
Christmas at Thornbury Golf Centre
Slimmers get muddy for charity A GROUP of Slimming World clients have raised £660 for Thornbury charity Jigsaw after completing a gruelling obstacle course. The group managed to tame the Tough Mudder South West course to raise the money. Shell Roberts, a Slimming World consultant said: "I am in complete admiration of these inspirational members" “We decided to raise money for Jigsaw as we wanted to give something back to the local community. We know how invaluable Jigsaw is, supporting families with children with additional needs.”
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thornburyvoice
October, 2017
n NEWS
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Churches get cash boost thanks to Rev Tom and his fellow walkers THORNBURY priest the Rev Tom Keates led an eight-strong team of walkers between four churches in the annual Ride and Stride event - already raising more than £800. The day was organised to support the Gloucestershire Historic Churches Trust, with money donated to be given out in grants to churches in need of repair or improvement. Buildings to benefit can be of any Christian denomination across South Gloucestershire, north Bristol and Gloucestershire, with walkers, cyclists, horse riders and drivers all able to be involved by visiting churches along their chosen route. Some of the money collected through sponsorship can also go to the participants’ nominated churches. The Rev Keates is associate
priest in Thornbury and with his companions from the benefice of Thornbury and Oldbury-onSevern, started their walk at the so-called tin tabernacle of St Mary’s in Shepperdine after morning prayers. A walk along the banks of the River Severn took them to St Arilda’s in Oldbury before going on to St Mary’s in Thornbury and St Paul’s at The Hackett for evening prayers. Rev Keates said: “It was a lovely day of community and fellowship and a great way to raise funds for a good cause while appreciating the glorious gifts of God’s created world.” Meanwhile, Fen Marshall, chairman of Tortworth Parish Meeting, was joined by two friends to cycle about 45 miles between 17 churches and chapels in support of St Leonard’s in Tortworth.
The Rev Tom Keates, third from right, with fellow walkers from the Thornbury and Oldbury-on-Severn benefice, about to set off from Shepperdine for the Ride and Stride event. He said: “We seemed to meet far more people than last year.
If we’d stopped and chatted with them all we’d never have finished in the day.”
The Christmas Memory Tree - a musical Christmas story written for Fascinating Rhythm and Junior FR
. . . a heartwarming story of a family Christmas full of love, sparkle and happy memories. Saturday 2nd December 2017 St Mary’s Church, Church Rd, Yate BS37 5BG Performance times 2.30 pm and 7.30 pm Ticket price £8 adults £6 seniors £5 Under 14s
Where to get tickets Please visit www.fascinating-rhythm.com to purchase your tickets or call 07719368701
‘Save the Date for our Learn to Sing Workshop on February 24th 2018 - Watch this space for more details.’ Got News? Call Richard 0n 01454 800 120
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thornburyvoice November deadline
Our November edition will be going to print on October 23. To ensure your news or letter is included, please contact us by October 18. Advertisers are also asked to contact us by the same date.
Thornbury Voice contacts Lynne Hutchinson
Richard Drew
07739 924421 contact@thornburyvoice.co.uk
01454 800 120 contact@thornburyvoice.co.uk
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Local information South Gloucestershire Council www.southglos.gov.uk 01454 868009 Safer Stronger team sscg@southglos.gov.uk 01454 868009 Anti social behaviour team asbreporting@southglos.gov.uk 01454 868582 Streetcare/litter/vandalism etc streetcare@southglos.gov.uk
Environment/trading standards 01454 868001 Police www.avonandsomersetpolice.uk general enquiries: 101 Fire www.avonfire.gov.uk General enquiries: 0117 926 2061 NHS Health Call 111 Well Aware health & social care information www.wellaware.org.uk Tel: (freephone) 0808 808 5252
PUBLISHER’S NOTE: Thornbury Voice is independent. We cannot take responsibility for content or accuracy of adverts, and it is advertisers’ responsibility to conform to all relevant legislation. We cannot vouch for any services offered. Opinions are not necessarily those of the editor. Thornbury Voice is distributed each month to local residents. If for some reason you do not get a copy, please get in touch or collect one from local pick-up points. Feedback is welcomed, call Richard On 01454 800 120 or contact@thornburyvoice.co.uk
October, 2017
n NEWS
Anti-social behaviour tackled by police patrols POLICE launched a crackdown on anti-social behaviour in Thornbury by introducing dedicated patrols into the town. They were responding to a number of reports of groups of teenagers gathering in rowdy groups, shouting and swearing, climbing onto roofs, drinking alcohol, dropping litter, fighting, causing damage and riding mopeds and motorbikes antisocially. Neighbourhood Inspector Clive Summerill said: “Neighbourhood officers have been working to tackle isolated incidents of anti-social behaviour (ASB) in a number of locations in Thornbury for several months. “Over the summer, reports increased and the team is currently being supported in carrying out extra patrols by officers from other beats.” He said about a dozen boys and girls aged 15 and 16 had been identified as being involved in such behaviour or found in an area where problems had been reported. Letters were written to their parents and carers and officers were also working with schools and youth organisations to raise awareness of the consequences of getting involved in such behaviour. Insp Summerill said: “Where we have evidence of criminal offences we will be taking positive action, which could
include prosecution.” During one weekend, a team of six officers and police and community support officers patrolled Thornbury, speaking with residents and young people. They responded to reports of around 20 under-age teenagers drinking alcohol in the grounds of the Castle School but most ran away when officers arrived, leaving open bottles and cans of alcohol which was poured away. Two 16-year-old girls were found to be in possession of unopened cans of alcohol. One of their mothers arrived and collected the alcohol and all were given words of advice. Police also responded to complaints of a loud house party in Dovedale. Officers were denied access to the property and although the householders were not at home, they returned when contacted by the officers and asked most of the people to leave. Insp Summerill said: “It’s important to remember that the majority of young people do not get involved in ASB. Officers spoke to a number of teenagers who were in small groups in the town and who did not cause any problems.” He said anyone witnessing ASB or who was affected by it should report it to the police or to South Gloucestershire Council's ASB team by emailing asbreporting@southglos.gov.uk or calling 01454 868582.
Help for Heroes seeks volunteers to join collection weekend
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To advertise, contact Richard on 01454 800 120
VOLUNTEERS are needed to help raise money for Help for Heroes during a collection at Thornbury’s Tesco store. The charity has been invited to hold the collection to mark the charity’s tenth anniversary. It will take place over the weekend of October 14 and 15, with people needed to collect money and act as team leader. Anyone interested should visit the charity’s website, email campaigns@helpforheroes.org.uk or phone 01980 846459.
Email: contact@thornburyvoice.co.uk
thornburyvoice
October, 2017
5
n NEWS
Meg and John run to charity fundraising success A THORNBURY couple in their 70s have so far raised more than £3,300 after completing the Bristol Half Marathon. Running newcomer Meg Moseley, 77, and her 79-year-old husband John signed up for the challenge to raise money for the charity Tearfund. John was named the quickest in the race’s 75-79 age group, finishing in just under three hours and four minutes, with Meg the runner-up with a time of just under three hours and 25 minutes. John said: “I suspect we may have been the only ones of that age group taking part to achieve that result. “We both got over the finish line in one piece, albeit with sore feet.” As previously reported in Thornbury Voice, the couple started training for the event despite Meg always saying she could never run. But she changed her mind during a visit to her
son in Nebraska, USA, only last November, when the temperatures were below freezing. During their daily walk, Meg suggested to John that they should run a little to get warm,
jogging for 30 yards before walking to get her breath back and then jogging another 30 yards. Gradually, she was able to run further before stopping for breath, and surprised John by
saying she would like to do a half marathon. John had previously run and he completed the London Marathon in 2002 at the age of 63, going on to enter half marathons periodically. The couple adopted a training regime and decided to support Tearfund to help with its relief and development work in Africa. They said the amount they had so far collected far exceeded their expectations. John said: “We would like to express our thanks to the very many people who have helped us to reach this magnificent total to benefit the poor of Africa.” The money the couple raised through sponsorship was boosted through a charity meal at Romy’s Kitchen restaurant in Castle Street, Thornbury. Chef Romy Gill is a supportive neighbour of Meg and John and also a keen runner. She organised the event, which was attended by 39 people.
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Schools to be part of new TV documentary THE two secondary schools in the Thornbury area are set to feature in a new BBC 2 documentary series. Bristol-based television production company Label1, which recently made the series Hospital, has been asked by the BBC and Open University to explore “the challenges, triumphs and future of our education system”. It will capture life in Britain’s secondary schools across an academic year and has agreed with the Castle School Education Trust that it will film at its four secondary schools, including Marlwood School in Alveston and The Castle School in Thornbury. The six-part series is due for transmission in 2018.
Financial steps taken to help Thornbury nursery finish building project A CASH shortfall of £183,000 is being met by South Gloucestershire Council so work on a new building for a Thornbury nursery can be completed. First Step Pre-school operates at two locations in the town and is having a new building constructed at its Crossways schools site, which will allow it to offer more spaces to local children. But although it received funding from the Department for Education (DfE) and had started the building work, unexpected costs meant the project stalled and the unfinished premises could not be used. The nursery operators approached the council for help and a proposed financial package
was agreed. The council’s investment will see it take over management of the building contract while the building itself, once finished, will be owned by the authority. A larger-than-expected grant to the council from the DfE that can be used for such capital building projects has provided the funding. Toby Savage, the council’s Cabinet member for schools, skills and employment, said the nursery provider was popular in the Thornbury area and with children waiting for places, the council was keen to see the project completed. He said “I am pleased that First Step had already received £225,000 from the DfE and work on the new nursery had
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thornburyvoice
October, 2017
n NEWS
Art club seeks public votes to help it secure a £500 grant
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THORNBURY Art Club is among 30 South West community groups to be shortlisted for a £500 grant. The money will be allocated after a public vote to decide which organisations should benefit from the Skipton Building Society's Grassroots Giving campaign. Hundreds of applications have been received for a share of £82,000 - to be shared between 164 groups across the UK. Having made it to this stage, it will now come down to the community to choose who should benefit. Votes can be cast up to October 13 by either going online to www.skiptongrg.co.uk or visiting any Skipton Building Society branch. David Cutter, Skipton’s group chief executive, said: “We’ve shortlisted the groups who we feel will make the most of the support we can offer them.” The Grassroots Giving programme was started as part of Skipton’s 160th anniversary celebrations in 2013.
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n NEWS A NEW system of using libraries that offers extended opening hours will come into effect in Thornbury on October 2. The library is one of eight in South Gloucestershire where technology has been installed so registered users can access services when the premises are unstaffed. Upgraded membership cards will be issued to people who can browse, borrow and renew books and other materials or use the library for studying. The system, called Open Access, was trialled at Bradley Stoke library before being rolled out to other libraries as part of a series of changes to the service. South Gloucestershire Council had to save £500,000 within the library service and
October, 2017
New tech system gives Thornbury library longer opening hours carried out a review to see how to achieve those cuts. It led to the withdrawal of the mobile library and other changes, such as establishing community libraries in some areas and turning Chipping Sodbury library into a volunteerrun facility, with the council continuing to fund the costs of the service and the training of the volunteers. Staffed hours were also cut the primary way of achieving the savings. But Heather Goddard, the
council’s Cabinet member for communities, said: “I am delighted that despite continued budgetary pressure on the council we have, working closely with the community, been able to develop a solution that maintains peoples’ access to books and other resources, while making a contribution to the savings that have had to be made. “New technology will work alongside our excellent library staff so that as a community we can make the best use of these facilities throughout the week
and even more residents can visit and take advantage of them.” Open Access will allow users to visit libraries from 7.30am8.30pm seven days a week, once they have undergone an induction to the system and accepted the terms and conditions linked to it. They can book a session either online at www.southglos. gov.uk/OpenAccess or by visiting their local library.
News! - Email us at contact@thornburyvoice.co.uk
Town school continues to please Ofsted A GOOD quality of education has been maintained at Manorbrook Primary School since it was last fully inspected in 2013. Ofsted inspector Richard Lucas said the Thornbury school’s headteacher, Darren Stanley, who took up the post a year ago, had made an “accurate and honest” evaluation of its performance to identify action that would result in improvements. Mr Lucas, who made a short inspection of Manorbrook, said: “These actions are successfully improving the quality of teaching and pupil outcomes.”
He said after a decline in performance in 2016 at key stages one and two, Mr Stanley had “immediately provided highly effective training for staff to develop their practice”. Teachers were now more aware of the new, higher expectations of the national tests and staff provided good levels of challenge for pupils, leading to improved rates of progress. The inspector said: “Leaders, including governors, monitor pupils’ learning very effectively and support pupils who fall behind so they can catch up quickly.
“Behaviour in and around school is very good and pupils are respectful and polite towards each other and towards adults. “Pupils appreciate the range of additional activities at lunchtimes and extra sporting opportunities on offer after school. “Teaching challenges pupils to think hard and reflect on improving their work. As a result, pupils work hard and try their best.” Mr Lucas said parents were overwhelmingly positive about the school’s work and appreciated the “extra mile” that
staff went to for their children. His report highlighted the school’s high priority given to attendance and said procedures to follow up unexpected absences were clear and thorough. There was regular monitoring of persistent absence and the school was not afraid to tackle poor attendance. Mr Lucas said: “Pupils like the rewards in place to celebrate good attendance. As a result of the school’s actions, absence rates are now declining for all groups of pupils.”
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Starts at home Metro Mayor Tim Bowles visited a newly refurbished supported housing scheme as part of a campaign to raise awareness of the vital role Supported Housing plays in our country. Merlin invited Mr Bowles and Jack Lopresti MP to tour Buckingham House in Filton to see the results of the housing association’s £1.5m investment in the scheme. Over the past year Merlin has converted eight bedsits and the former warden’s flat into six, modern onebedroom flats. It has also completely revamped and redecorated the rest of the
building, including the communal lounge where residents hold their weekly coffee morning and where the pair chatted with residents about the work.
Now in its second year, Starts at Home is run by the National Housing Federation to celebrate how supported housing helps hundreds of thousands of vulnerable people regain their “It’s completely independence and confidence.
changed; everything is a lot brighter than it was before”
With the work at Buckingham House completed, new residents are now moving in. One of them is Alfreda Verrier and she said as soon as she saw the flat that she knew she wanted to move in.
“It’s absolutely perfect,” she said. “I was so pleased to get it as I never thought I’d have somewhere to live like this. All the other residents are really nice and the staff who are supporting us are wonderful.” Resident Fred Brooks continued living there while the work took place and said he was impressed with the transformation. “It’s completely changed; everything is a lot brighter than it was before,” he said. “They have done a fantastic job.” Merlin is now starting work on a similar remodelling at Langdale Court in Patchway.
Metro Mayor Tim Bowles talks to residents at Buckingham House
Merlin helps people into work Landlord Merlin is supporting customers to achieve their careers goals through its brand new into work service – and it is already having a positive impact. In just the first three months of being set up, the service has helped five people get a permanent job. “My role is to help our customers to overcome any barriers to employment and give them the support they need to reach their career goals and aspirations,” says Katie Coates who is the Into Work Officer. “I help people who have been out of work for a while, people who work but want to do something different, or people who want to increase their hours – as long as they are a Merlin customer, we will support them. “And it doesn’t stop once they achieve their goals, I keep in touch to make sure they are happy with everything and support with any issues that may arise, for as long as they need.” The service is entirely voluntary and tailored to the individual. Whether they need help to identify what kind of job is right for them, to write a CV or
cover letter, want to improve their interview skills or need support accessing training opportunities or voluntary roles – Katie is confident there will be something she can help with. The organisation is building links with local employers and college to maximise opportunities for people, and spending lots of time in local job centres to advise Merlin customers. The programme can even help with the costs of getting to an interview or buying new clothes for it.
“I am passionate about empowering each and every customer ”
“I am passionate about empowering each and every customer I see to gain the skills and confidence to search, apply and interview successfully for a job they really want, both now and in the long term,” added Katie. If you are a Merlin tenant and would like to know more, call Katie on 01454 821028 or 07773 224689. Or you can email katie.coates@merlinhs.co.uk
thornburyvoice 28
October, 2017
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Major transport scheme could see changes along A38 FEASIBILITY studies costing £1.2 million will investigate major transport schemes across the West of England, including in Thornbury and Yate. Council leaders and metro mayor Tim Bowles agreed the funding at a meeting of the West of England Combined Authority (WECA). In South Gloucestershire, the two key areas are the A38 corridor and the A4174 Ring Road and Badminton Road (A432) coming south out of Yate. These two routes comprise the spine of the transport system through and across South Gloucestershire. The A38 corridor study will include looking at schemes such as extending the Metrobus to Thornbury, building a major cyclepath along the A38 to the town and establishing a park and ride facility somewhere along the
route. It will also consider the re-opening of Charfield railway station and improving the M5 at Junction 14 in Falfield. The Yate study will investigate projects such as running Metrobus to the town, having better cycle facilities along Badminton Road and introducing a park and ride facility in the Badminton Road area. Other proposals include improving Yate railway station and building a Winterbourne/ Frampton Cotterell bypass. Matthew Riddle, leader of South Gloucestershire Council. said: “The A38 and Yate corridors are under pressure and we need to build the infrastructure not only to alleviate current congestion, but to allow the residents of tomorrow to get from A to B.”
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October, 2017
thornburyvoice
13
n NEWS
Chamber orchestra Fairy tale ballet to be returns to Thornbury screened in Thornbury A CONCERT of popular classical music will be given in Thornbury by violinist Roger Huckle and members of the Bristol Ensemble. The professional chamber orchestra will perform works by Mozart - including the Clarinet Quintet in A Major - as well as Brahms’ Hungarian Dances, two waltzes by Dvorak and two Nordic Melodies by Grieg. The event at 7.30pm on Saturday, October 21, will be held in the Cossham Hall as part of the fund raising for phase one of the Armstrong Hall redevelopment project. Tickets at £16 each, to include interval finger food, can be bought at Thornbury Town Hall or by phoning 01454 412272.
THE ballet Sleeping Beauty will come to Thornbury on the silver screen when a film of a production staged in Bristol is shown. Thornbury Picture House will show Matthew Bourne’s version of the fairy tale ballet that stars Dominic North and Hannah Vassallo.
Filmed at the Bristol Hippodrome in May 2013, the film can be seen in the Cossham Hall, Chapel Street, on Friday, October 13, at 7.30pm. Doors open at 7pm and tickets, at £10 or £8 for the over-65s and under-16s, can be bought from Thornbury Town Hall or by calling 01454 412272.
Meals include festive novelties and crackers.
Festive Lunch & Dinner at Thornbury Castle
Lunch
£50 per person
Carrot and Cumin Soup
Roasted Jerusalem Artichoke Soup
Grilled Cornish Mackerel Pate, cucumber, brick pastry
The magic and warmth of our extraordinary 16th century castle adorns every aspect of the spectacular festive celebrations on offer at Thornbury Castle.
Goats Cheese Mousse
Make treasured memories with friends, family or colleagues amongst our inspirational British dining and grandeur of Thornbury Castle that once housed Henry VIII and his new bride, Anne Boleyn.
Wild mushrooms, spinach, horseradish mash
Red onion, pickled beetroot, walnut and herb crumb
Sirloin of Beef
See overleaf for festive lunch and dinner menus.
Dinner
£29.50 per person
Truffle oil
Grilled Cornish Mackerel Paté, cucumber, brick pastry
Goats Cheese Mousse
Red onion, pickled beetroot, walnut & herb crumb
Fillet of Gloucestershire Beef
Traditional Roast Turkey
Glazed carrots, wild mushrooms, spinach, horseradish mash
Pan-fried Cornish Hake
“Classic garnish”, cooking juices
“Classic garnish”, cooking juices Shellfish, samphire chowder
Roasted Butternut & Sage Gnocchi Kale, sauce vierge
Traditional Roast Turkey
Pan Fried Cornish Brill Fillet Shellfish, samphire chowder
Roasted Butternut & Sage Gnocchi Kale, sauce vierge
Blood Orange
To join us for the festivities this year visit www.thornburycastle.co.uk or call 01454 281182
Crème, pastry, fennel, bergamot
Blood Orange
Chocolate Torte
Crème, pastry, fennel, bergamot
Warm Christmas Pudding
Coconut, coffee and cardamom, cranberry
Coconut, coffee and cardamom, cranberry Panna cotta, brandy, redcurrant
Chocolate Torte
Warm Christmas Pudding Panna cotta, brandy, redcurrant
For parties of up to and including 9 guests can choose on the day. For parties of 10+ we will require pre-orders via the Events Department. We have endeavoured to ensure that all allergens contained in our food have been documented. For dietary requirements or further allergen information please speak to a member of the Restaurant Team.
Got News? Call Richard 0n 01454 800 120
Email: contact@thornburyvoice.co.uk
14
n ON THE BEAT
thornburyvoice
October, 2017
Anti- social behaviour our priority at the moment
PC Malcolm Webley
I’M Malcolm Webley, the new PC for the Thornbury and Alveston beat. I joined the neighbourhood team of PC Natalie Jones and PCSOs Sheryl Drewett and Tony Blackmore in September after PC Sean White transferred. I put myself forward to take on the role as I do like Thornbury, having worked here before joining the police, and I’m a regular visitor with my family. I’ve been a beat manager for most of my 16 years’ service, mainly on beats in South Gloucestershire. At the moment our priority is tackling anti-social behaviour (ASB). The team has been working to resolve issues for several months, but over the summer reports increased. We’ve focused
our attention on hotspot areas and have been supported in dedicated patrols by officers from other beats. We’re also talking to young people and their parents and carers to make sure they understand the effect of their behaviour on others – and the potential consequences for themselves. Where we have evidence of criminal offences we will be taking positive action which could include prosecution. South Gloucestershire Council’s ASB team are supporting the community and working with us to identify suitable solutions to the problem of people misusing mopeds on public rights of way. We do need help from the community in keeping us informed
so we can target our patrols and resources. There’s information about how to report ASB on our website www.avonandsomerset. police.uk, including information on keeping an incident diary. As a rule, if a crime’s underway or someone could get hurt, ring 999. Otherwise call our 24/7 non-emergency number 101 or report through the website. The council ASB Team are available for advice and support at asbreporting@southglos.gov.uk. I’m hoping to get to know you while on patrol and at the local beat surgeries. Times and dates are available on our website – just type your postcode into the ‘your area’ search box on the home page.
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Tel: 07771652222 / 0117 9569924 Email: imperial.developments@hotmail.com To advertise, contact Richard on 01454 800 120 Email: contact@thornburyvoice.co.uk
thornburyvoice
October, 2017
15
n LOCAL MP
Access to childcare
Luke Hall MP writes for Thornbury Voice
HAVING access to high quality childcare can be part of providing our children with the best possible start in life. It can allow parents to increase their working hours and provide the extra flexibility that modern family life sometimes demands. The difficulty for many parents has been accessibility; putting children in childcare has been simply unaffordable, often costing more than a parent is taking home after tax, and leaving people worse off despite putting in all of the hours and the hard graft. A good life should mean that raising your family feels like an incredible and joyful and, yes, sometimes exhausting journey, but it shouldn't be a constant struggle with the bills. For many local families with young children, childcare is not
one issue among many - it is the issue. They're asking 'How can this work? How can we afford it?' It really shouldn't have to be this way. So I am delighted that working parents of three and four year olds in South Gloucestershire are now able to claim 30 hours of free childcare, per week, from 1st September 2017. More than 200,000 families across the country have successfully applied to take up the 30 hours free childcare already. This is good news the doubling of the previous entitlement of 15 hours free has been really warmly welcomed by the families that I have spoken to over the last few weeks. I have heard stories of parents starting to spend more time together at home with their children, reducing stress and
improving family finances. The reform is worth up to £5,000 per year, per child, and has been possible by curbing pension relief for the highest earners, helping the families who put in the hours to do the best by their families. This major investment in family life has been designed to improve the quality of life for people who are working hard and want to do the right thing; a better work life balance, greater flexibility and improved finances. To find out more information on Government support with childcare please visit; www.childcarechoices.gov.uk If you are taking up 30 hours of free childcare, I would love to hear how it is working for you and your family: luke.hall.mp@parliament.uk
What’s on at The Swan New this month – New loyalty card scheme
Monday to Saturday 3 till 7pm and Sunday 4pm till closed. Buy 10 of your favourite drinks and get the 11th free Ask at the bar for yours!!!
Open Mic night 8.30pm every Thursday with Martin come and show your talents!
Friday 6pm Poker everyone welcome to come and play Sunday 4pm onwards free juke box …… Monday to Saturday off selected menu Two meals for £11 Taking bookings now for Christmas…… Don’t forget the Swan Halloween party some great things are in the planning…. Don’t forget our weekly events Tuesday 8pm Bingo Wednesday 8.30 Charity of the month quiz Thursday 2pm Bingo PLUS Live Music every Friday and Saturday evening from 9.30pm (Visit www.facebook.com/TheSwanThornbury for full details)
Swan Charity of the month Thornbury Fireworks Also available - Function Room – Garden – Bed and Breakfast
www.swanthornbury.co.uk Contact us on 01454 413062 enquiries@swanthornbury.co.uk The Swan, High St, Thornbury, Bristol, BS35 2AE
Got News? Call Richard 0n 01454 800 120
Email: contact@thornburyvoice.co.uk
16
n NEWS
Planning inspector to decide on development in Falfield A PUBLIC inquiry will be held into plans for 115 new homes and a park and share scheme in Falfield. South Gloucestershire planners had turned down the scheme by Cotswold Homes for land at Heneage Farm, Moorslade Lane, earlier this year. There were concerns at the level of building proposed, which would more than double the number of homes in the village, and the effect it would have on roads, especially the M5 junction at Falfield. Opponents said there was already a heavy reliance on private transport and facilities such as schools and health services were only reachable by road, It is anticipated that the inquiry will be held early in 2018.
thornburyvoice
October, 2017
Developers make new attempt to build hundreds of homes at Cleve Park site AN appeal has been lodged by developers to build up to 350 homes at Cleve Park in Thornbury after the scheme was previously rejected by South Gloucestershire planners. The action taken by Welbeck Strategic Land had been anticipated by those who had campaigned against the proposal. Although they celebrated at the time of the refusal earlier this year, they cautioned against the battle being over. They are now waiting to find out if a public inquiry will be held - which the developers want - or whether it will be dealt with in another form.
The scheme includes a care home for the elderly and 14 self-build plots on the site at the junction of Morton Way and Grovesend Road. It was rejected on the grounds of the harm it would do to the town. It is one of a string of house building schemes for the town, with a number of homes already occupied, others being built and more waiting to be determined. The big increase in the level of house building is a major concern within the town due to the rise in population and the effect it has on local services and roads. Three sites under construction at Park Farm,
Thornbury Fields and Post Farm will account for more than 900 homes, with a further 130 recently approved at the junction of Butt Lane and Gloucester Road. Hundreds more are proposed along Gloucester Road from Upper Morton across fields to Crossways Lane at The Knapp, while a 3,000-home garden village has been proposed for Buckover. There have been calls to put a halt to building to let services and infrastructure catch up with the expansion in housing - and to protect the countryside.
Lower speed limit proposed for Tockington road PLANS have been drawn up to cut the speed of traffic on Washingpool Hill Road by introducing a 30mph limit. South Gloucestershire Council recently consulted on a 20mph speed limit in the vicinity of Tockington Manor School, which is sited on the road, and during the exercise received comments from local residents about drivers going too fast along the rest of the road. Requests were made to extend the lower limit further into Tockington village and to its junction with the A38, a move which was investigated by the
council. However, that would involve the introduction of traffic calming measures, which were beyond the remit and funding available for the 20mph speed limit scheme, which will still go ahead in the area of the school. But further investigation showed it would be possible to implement a 30mph speed limit on the remainder of Washingpool Hill Road, which is now part of another consultation. Details are available on the council’s website and comments can be received up to October 11.
Campaigners lose battle to stop homes being built on Thornbury’s north side OPPONENTS of a controversial plan to build more houses on the north side of Thornbury lost their fight against the scheme when council planners narrowly gave it the go-ahead. The controversial outline application for land west of Gloucester Road was originally for 180 homes. It was later reduced to 130 but was still fought by the town council, individual objectors and the organisation Trapp’d Thornbury Residents Against Poorly Planned Development. However, South Gloucestershire Council planning officers recommended allowing the application to go ahead and development control committee members voted 5-4 in favour, with two abstentions.
Trapp’d said the decision was a blow after it had challenged many aspects of the council officers’ reports. It also pledged to “continue to fight against poorly planned developments”, which was its aim when the action group was formed. Thornbury Town Council had said the site was outside the development boundary and was a further example of “speculative and unplanned development” which would result in “a significant and unsustainable percentage increase” in the local population. It said it was unfair that the town, which had already accepted enough new development to meet its housing needs, was being asked to
To advertise, contact Richard on 01454 800 120
accommodate even more homes to meet South Gloucestershire’s five-year housing land supply requirement. Thornbury councillor Clare Fardell said the site was not in a sustainable location and drew attention to the walking distances to local services and facilities, which were considered to be “excessive”. She said nearly all town centre facilities were more than a mile from the site, with only the Anchor pub within reasonable walking distance. She said the proposal went against the core strategy development blueprint, there were concerns about drainage problems and worries about road safety due to the site access proposed.
Councillor Fardell also said the housing would lead to increased traffic congestion within the town and along the A38, while only limited weight had been given to the effect of the development on grade two listed buildings in Upper Morton. But Erica Williams, the council’s executive member for housing delivery, spoke in support of the proposal. She said a preference was expressed for plan-led development but speculative applications had to be given careful consideration given that the council could not demonstrate that it had a fiveyear housing land supply.
Email: contact@thornburyvoice.co.uk
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18
thornburyvoice
n WHAT’S ON IN OUR AREA October 4 n Multiple Sclerosis People's Help are holding a coffee.morning on Wednesday 4 October in the Methodist Church Hall, Alveston, from 10.30. Please come along and support this very worthy cause. October 6 n Haven Memory Cafe, Thornbury United Reformed Church Friday 6th October 10.15 - 11.45a.m. TMTG on Tour- Thornbury Musical Theatre Group October 11 n Come and sing afternoon. The filtones choir invites you to join us for an open rehearsal. On wednesday 11th october.Between 1.45 And 3.45 P.M. At Eden Grove Methodist Church Eden Grove, Horfield, bs7 0pq. For further information please ring Michael, our Chairman on 0117 9655368 or mobile 0797 4280708 or check out our website www.thefiltones. weebly.com October 20 n Haven Memory Cafe, Thornbury United Reformed Church Friday 20th October 10.15 11.45a.m. Talk and Taste: Food, Glorious Food- Wiltshire Farm Foods October 21 n Indoor car boot sale. Saturday 21st October. Thornbury Methodist Church Hall 2pm -4pm Free entry Refreshments available Sellers £5 a table Call Laura on 01454 852069 to book a table October 21 n Bridges for Communities. Saturday 21st October 10am 12 noon at the Chantry. Good Neighbours. That’s the theme of this year’s One World Week, inviting us to explore how we can become
better neighbours, locally and internationally. Dan Green will tell stories of how they have helped individuals and groups struggling with isolation and loneliness, many of them newly-arrived refugees or asylum seekers struggling to find a welcome in this country. For more information, contact Mark Wallis on 419439. October 26 n Avon Organic Group. The local group for everyone interested in organic growing and organic foods. A special event for the group this month with James Campbell, Chief Executive of Garden Organic giving us a talk: "Garden Organic – Vision for the 21st Century". James, will talk about his passion for organic growing and the developing role of Garden Organic - an organisation representing organic growers and gardeners, especially ordinary gardeners and allotment holders, community groups and not-forprofit growers, promoting the benefits of organic growing and sharing best practice amongst a wide range of activities and collaborative partnerships at home and abroad. Thursday, 26th October 2017, 7pm – 9pm at The Station (in the Dance Studio), Silver Street, Bristol. BS1 2AG. All welcome. Visitors £5/Members £2. www.groworganicbristol.org / secretaryaog@gmail.com
Wicked Aromaz and Friends Proudly Presents Craft and Gift Fayres
n Chipping Sodbury Town Hall Saturday 7 October 10am to 4pm. Free Admission n Chipping Sodbury Town Hall
Saturday 4 November 10am to 2pm. Free Admission
What’s on in The Swan Thornbury
Great Food everyday all day. New this month – New loyalty card scheme n Monday to Saturday 3 till 7pm and Sunday 4pm till closed. Buy 10 of your favourite drinks and get the 11th free Ask at the bar for yours!!! n Open Mic night 8.30pm every Thursday with Martin come and show your talents! n Monday to Saturday off selected menu - Two meals for £11.Taking bookings now for Christmas. Don’t forget the Swan Halloween party some great things are in the planning, don’t forget our weekly events n Wednesday 8.30 Charity of the month quiz – Thornbury Fireworks n Thursday 2pm Bingo PLUS Live Music every Friday and Saturday evening from 9.30pm (Visit www. facebook.com/TheSwanThornbury for full details).. Also available Function Room – Garden – Bed and Breakfast . www.swanthornbury.co.uk Contact us on 01454 413062 enquiries@swanthornbury.co.uk The Swan, High St, Thornbury, Bristol, BS35 2AE
Regular favourite events at The Swan n Every Tuesday 8pm Bingo n Every Wednesday 8.30pm The Swan Quiz n Every Thursday 2pm Bingo
October, 2017 n Wednesday 8.30pm Quiz for Charity of the month Thornbury Fireworks n Every Sunday Free Jukebox. Plus Live Music every Friday and Saturday evening
Regular events Monday n 7.00 pm Armstrong Hall Cossham Hall World Dance 7pm - 10 pm Tuesday n 11.00 am - 1.30 pm Armstrong Hall - Excell Room Recycled Teenagers Lunch Club Wednesday n 2.00 pm Armstrong Hall Cossham Hall Tea Dance 01454 412060 n 2.00 pm. Armstrong Hall, Committee Room Lip Reading Classes n Wednesdays starting 6 September Bellydance Classes with SachaFrom 7.30pm . Contact Sacha on 07971 578151 or email sachabellydance@yahoo.co.uk for full details. Ridgewood Community Association, Yate BS37 4AF Thursday n8.00 pm. Armstrong Hall Ceroc Dance Friday n 2.00 pm. Armstrong Hall Committee Room Canasta Club n Alveston: Marlwood School Marlwood Folk Companions 7:45 – 9:15pm (term time only). 01454 414365 Peter.sumner@ btopenworld.com Sunday n Thornbury Ramblers walk. See www.thornburyramblers.org.uk for details, or ring 01454 413924
What’s on at Thornbury Library Like us on Facebook www.Facebook.Com/ sgloslibraries Follow us on Twitter @ southgloslibs Open Access members hours* Monday - Sunday, 8.30am – 7.30pm Looking for opening times, service information or contact details? See our website www. Southglos.Gov.Uk/libraries
our website for latest opening times and information about the changes for all libraries across South Gloucestershire. From October many of our libraries will be open longer thanks to new Open Access technology. This will enable registered users to access the library outside of staffed hours*. New opening hours at Thornbury Library come into effect from Monday 2 October 2017
Important Changes To Library Services In South Gloucestershire Come Into Effect From October 2017 - all details correct at time of going to press. Please check
What is Open Access membership? Open Access uses swipe card technology to enable you to use the library outside of staffed
To advertise, contact Richard on 01454 800 120
hours. Heating and lighting are automated and CCTV is installed. Registration is required and Terms & Conditions apply. Min age 16 yrs. Open Access membership enhances your existing Active Leisure and Library membership allowing you to use the library for up to an extra 42 hrs a week. This will enable you to make the most of the resources at times that are more convenient to you. There is no charge to upgrade to Open Access membership. To register please first book an induction session, either online at: www. southglosevents.eventbrite.co.uk or enquire in person at the library. When the library is available
during Open Access times you will be able to: • S can your Active Leisure and Library card and use your PIN to enter the library • connect to our free wifi • Use a computer • Print and photocopy items • Aaccess online e-resources • i ssue, return, renew items and pay charges using the selfservice kiosks • Collect reserved items • Read books and newspapers For more information see www.southglos.gov.uk/ openaccess *Free registration, terms and conditions apply, please see our website for details.
Email: contact@thornburyvoice.co.uk
thornburyvoice
October, 2017
19
n LETTERS Thank you to a Good Samaritan WALKING up the incline of Castle street my wife was overcome by breathlessness and rapid heart beat; as there is nowhere to sit and rest and feeling faint she entered the estate agents shop requesting to be allowed to sit for a while. The proprietor being concerned, took my wife to the medical centre and insisted on staying while she received attention from the doctor and then took her home. This act of kindness did not end there, as I was in Tockington at the time and could not be contacted by phone, her assistant contacted her husband Dylan asking him to seek me out and tell me of of her plight. With all the problems happening in the world at the moment how fortunate we are to live in to live in a town and country where kindness is shown in this way. And how lucky we are to have a magazine in which we can express our gratitude. J Whitehart
Thornbury Community Composting is looking for support Many people will know of this local facility, at the back of the Leisure Centre carpark, which has been operating now for 18 years. Each year we seem to be more in demand than ever, so that we are now processing almost 500 tonnes of green waste annually. This greatly increased once the green bin charges were introduced. We are only able to operate thanks to the services of our local contractor Martin GIll whose heavy machinery is able to cope with this large volume of material. Our aim is to provide local compost for local people in as an environmental way as possible. We are a group of 14 volunteers who attempt to keep the site organised and remove any usable wood to process into firewood. On two days a week there is a general working party on the site, Saturday mornings from approx 9-11am and a Wednesday afternoons from 2-4 pm.
Our only rewards are coffee and biscuits, good company, grateful thanks of the public, and stocking our gardens with recycled plants and the odd bit of firewood and compost, and also I suspect a greatly increased fitness level without having to pay for a Gym membership! After originally being fully supported by South Glos Council, next year we do not expect to receive funding and hope to be fully self-sufficient. The bulk of the income to cover our costs now comes from the donations that our
customers make for the compost through the honesty box, as well as the small charge for dropping off their green waste. The sale of firewood last year raised ÂŁ1000, but at present all this covers less than two thirds of our expenses. Thank you to the 1000 or more customers who so generously support us. Without you we can not keep going, and new volunteers are always welcome. John Wilson-Smith Chairman Thornbury Community Composters
Wedding Fayre Sun 17th Sept 11am -3pm
Free entry!
Venue for all seasons
venue with beautiful Eastwood Park is an ideal wedding character, set within e uniqu and views, secluded location a 200 acre country estate , Eastwood Park, Falfield, Gloucestershire Photos: Amy’s Photography Bristol
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(top left), JD Photography (top right)
01454 260207 weddings@eastwoodpark.co.uk www.eastwoodpark.co.uk
Got News? Call Richard 0n 01454 800 120
Email: contact@thornburyvoice.co.uk
thornburyvoice
20
n NEWS
October, 2017
Fears raised over Armstrong Hall site despite consultation on its future CONCERNS have been raised that Thornbury’s Armstrong Hall complex will be sold off and an extended Turnberries community building used as a future performance venue, despite a programme of consultation. A number of local residents have suggested the option is a “done deal” and there are now moves to try and hold a public meeting so there can be a full debate about the issue. Three drop-in sessions to outline two proposals were held in the town recently as part of a month-long consultation ahead of a decision being made. The Armstrong Hall - the town’s main performance location - needs significant
refurbishment to allow its continued long-term use. It has seen Thornbury Town Council and South Gloucestershire Council working together for the past seven months, along with trustees of Turnberries in Bath Road, to discuss where community facilities in the town could best be located. One option would be to refurbish and extend the Armstrong Hall to provide changing rooms and extra multipurpose meeting space. The second proposal would involve building a large hall extension onto Turnberries to create a performance area with stage, changing rooms and extra community meeting space,
n ADVERTISING FEATURE
REMEMBER US? BORN 1991-92? WE’D LOVE TO SEE YOU AGAIN Book a Focus@24+ visit now! Phone us: 0117 331 0010 Text us: 07789 753 722 Email us: info@childrenofthe90s.ac.uk www.childrenofthe90s.ac.uk/focus24 Get a shopping voucher as a thank you. All travel costs reimbursed.
To advertise, contact Richard on 01454 800 120
selling the Armstrong Hall site for redevelopment and using the proceeds to part-fund the extension at Turnberries. Questions have also been asked about ownership of any performance hall at Turnberries as South Gloucestershire Council owns the building, while the town council manages the Armstrong Hall and a trust owns the freehold. Among users of the Armstrong Hall is the Thornbury Arts Festival committee, which said it would prefer a new purpose built development on the current site in Chapel Street. In its submitted comments to the consultation, it said the option for Turnberries was “not ambitious enough” and gave the
impression that too much was being crammed into a small area. It had concerns about limited foyer space and the capacity of the bigger of two halls, which it said was not viable for arts festival events. It said it was “disappointed by this proposal” and feared that if the Turnberries option went ahead, the festival would no longer be able to bring the quality of performances to the town that residents had come to expect. A decision of the future of the facilities is set to be taken later in the autumn, when it has been said the views of local people will be considered.
Child of the 90s? Play your part in cutting-edge research VOICE readers have responded enthusiastically to an appeal to contribute to one of the world’s biggest and longest-running health studies – Children of the 90s. Based at the University of Bristol, the programme has been tracking the health and development of more than 14,000 families for more than 25 years. Almost 4,000 young people have taken part in the latest stage of the research, called Focus@24+, volunteering for a series of cutting-edge tests, including blood pressure, liver and lung function checks. Since we featured Children of the 90s in our September edition, a further 146 participants have booked or attended a Focus@24+ appointment – many of them saying that it was the Voice article which prompted them to get in touch. Children of the 90s studies families with a child born in Bristol and the surrounding area between April 1991 and December 1992. It’s also known as the Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children, and is followed by scientists all over the world. Researchers have used the data collected over the last 25 years to help answer important questions on key health issues, including asthma, childhood obesity, and dementia. Now, with the Focus@24+ clinics drawing to a close this autumn, the Children of the 90s team is keen to hear from anyone who was born in or around the city in 1991/2 and would like to play their part in building an even more detailed picture of the health of their generation. The team at Children of the 90s have opened clinic appointments throughout October, including in the evenings and at weekends. There are also new, shorter, two hour appointments available. To find out more, please call 0117 331 0010, email info@ childrenofthe90s.ac.uk or visit the website: childrenofthe90s.ac.uk.
Email: contact@thornburyvoice.co.uk
thornburyvoice
October, 2017
21
n NEWS
New bus services take to the road BUS operator Stagecoach West has started new routes in South Gloucestershire that serve passengers in Thornbury and the surrounding area. The expansion of its network has seen the introduction of a service 77 running hourly between Thornbury and Bristol city centre, including stopping at Southmead Hospital, Bristol Parkway railway station and Aztec West. The bus replaces the former local service 615. Meanwhile, service 622 runs every 90 minutes between Cribbs Causeway and Chipping Sodbury, via Almondsbury, Tockington, Alveston, Thornbury, Tytherington and Yate. Stagecoach said the new links joined existing services 60 and 62 to Gloucester, services 69 and 620 to Stroud and Bath and services 84, 85 and 86 around Yate. The operator said it was running the new routes in conjunction with local authorities, including South Gloucestershire Council, and its expansion also saw the opening of a new North Bristol depot shared with South Gloucestershire Bus and Coach Company. Some 35 new driving jobs were created as a result of the new services.
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thornburyvoice
October, 2017
n NEWS
Cut down to size - volunteers get to grips with scything PEOPLE volunteering at the Thornbury Community Orchard and Morton Bridge Wildflower Meadow have been learning how to cut grass the old fashioned way, by scything. The course, sponsored by Thornbury based law
NEW services to help the victims of domestic abuse in South Gloucestershire have been launched. Provided by Next Link, they include safe houses for women with children, single women and men and women with complex needs. Advisers on domestic and sexual violence are also available through outreach services, at Southmead Hospital’s A&E department and within the maternity service. There is training for all GP surgeries in the district and a range of support, including a group work scheme, available. Carol Metters, the chief executive of Next Link, said: “It is estimated that 6,000 victims experience domestic abuse in South Gloucestershire each year.
firm Barcan+Kirby, saw ten volunteers learn and hone their skills in time to mow the meadow and orchard ready for Autumn. John Mills, scything course organiser for Thornbury Community Orchard said: "In the past we've only had three regular volunteers who have had scythe training, so we had to rely on them to lead when scything was required.” "The sponsorship has enabled us to hold a course so that we will have more volunteers capable to help in future
years."
Scythe Instructor, Chris Riley (centre) with volunteers.
Help for domestic abuse victims in South Glos “Domestic violence remains a significant problem for many individuals. More than 290 South Gloucestershire residents were recognised as being ‘at high risk of serious harm or death’ from domestic violence in 2015. “We know that victims who receive help do go on to have safe fulfilling lives. It is important that professionals and victims know what help there is available.” Women are more likely to be abused, to report abuse and to be killed by their partners. Reported figures show that in
a random group of 16 mothers, there is likely to be one who experienced domestic abuse last year. For single mothers, it is one in four and for fathers, it is one in 24. In England and Wales, two women a week are killed by a partner or ex-partner, with domestic violence accounting for nearly a quarter of all violent crime. Some 30 per cent of domestic abuse starts during pregnancy. On average, a woman will be assaulted by her partner or ex-partner 35 times before
reporting it to the police and in nearly all incidents - 90 per cent - involving domestic abuse, children are in the same or adjoining room. It is also reported that one in seven children and young people under the age of 18 will have lived with domestic violence at some point in their childhood. Anyone experiencing domestic abuse or who is concerned about someone can contact Next Link on 0800 4700 280.
Sixth Form Open Evening – Thursday 12 October Senior School Visiting Morning – Tuesday 17 October redmaidshigh.co.uk 0117 962 2641
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thornburyvoice
October, 2017
23
n NEWS
Challenges to be met by 2020 outlined in public health report THREE targets have been set by health chiefs to improve the lives of people in South Gloucestershire. BY 2020, it is hoped to reduce by 20 per cent both the level of child poverty in the district and the gap in educational attainment between the more well off and the poorer children. The third of the 2020 Challenges outlined by South Gloucestershire’s director of public health, Professor Mark Pietroni, in his annual report is to increase by 20 per cent the number of mothers who breastfeed. Professor Pietroni said South Gloucestershire was generally a healthy place to live, with almost all data indicating better outcomes than the national and regional
averages. But there was a clear link between people’s health and educational achievements and their income levels, so while poverty was lower in the district than in many other areas, those living with less had measurably poorer health. The public health sector and other organisations, including South Gloucestershire Council, will work on achieving the three challenges. The council said one example of supporting families in need was the ActivePlay scheme, which allowed lower income families or those with children with disabilities to get vouchers for their children to use the area’s sports and leisure facilities. Families can be referred to
1 OCTOBER – 20 NOVEMBER
the scheme by health visitors, school nurses, children’s centre staff or the council’s 0-25 service. Professor Pietroni said in his report: “The evidence is overwhelming that children who don’t have a good start in life have worse health and other outcomes when they get older. “It is also very clear that the best value for money comes from interventions targeted at young children. This is a case of being the right thing to do as well as the best way to spend public resources. “In South Gloucestershire, by and large, our population outcomes are good. However, there are issues that we need to address, including the number of children living in poverty.”
Award winning photographer showcases New Zealand OLVESTON Village Hall will be transported to New Zealand in November thanks to a presentation by an Associate of the Royal Photographic Society. Peter Haworth will showcase a photographic travel talk of New Zealand on Saturday 18 November at the Village Hall. Doors open at 19.00hrs. Money raised from this charity evening will be distributed to two charities. PENNY BROHN UK– living with cancer and AUTICULATE a charity helping autistic children and young people to adapt into society. Tickets for this evening are £10 each which includes a glass of wine on arrival. Tickets can be purchased by contacting Jane Haworth, telephone 01454 612441. There will be a bar, tea and cake, raffle and hotspot draw.
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The two-week Free Trial offer is available between 1 October and 20 November
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24
n COMMUNITY NEWS
Thornbury Lions Club THIS year is the 30th anniversary of the formation of Thornbury Lions Club. During this time the Club has become an integral part of the community by supporting a large number of local projects. To celebrate our anniversary we are focussing on youth, and for our first major event we invited local schools to a presentation evening at the Cossham Hall. The Club gave a donation of £500 to each of thirteen schools
to be used for the purchase of books and/or sports equipment. Light refreshments were served and the evening ended with a superb display of folk music by the Wriggle Jigglers, a local band of enthusiastic young musicians. They are members of three families from Thornbury and Rockhampton who have performed at folk festivals nationwide and they gave a rousing climax to a very successful evening.
October, 2017
Brownies enjoy a special year THE 1st Falfield and Stone Brownies have finished their 20th anniversary celebrations. As part of our celebration we had a competition to design a birthday badge to wear on our uniforms for the year and we planted daffodil bulbs on the verge outside our meeting place. Falfield Church, who have been very supportive to the unit over the years joined us on one of our evenings and presented the girls with a trophy for Grateful Service to St Georges Church, Falfield. This was also an ideal opportunity for the brownies to present the church with another kneeler which they had made. A kneeler that was made by the brownies probably around their 10th birthday has been in use and at the church since then. Brownies is about getting together regularly each week in term time - to work on badges, play games, learn skills and see friends. It's about trying adventurous activities and going along to special events, day trips, sleepovers and holidays. We have gained these badges – Seasons, Science Investigator, Boomps–a-Daisy Challenge, Desirable Dens and Spring into Summer, Learnt new Skills – Photography, Cooking and STEM skills. Taken part in lots of activities – Airhop, Visit to the Apple Store, British Science Week,
Thornbury Carnival, Cattle Country, Animal Encounters – Reptile party, Marine Conservation Society Visit, Farm Visit, Penny Hike and Chip Supper, Pyjama Party and Japanese Night Stayed away together – Sleepover at Slimbridge WWT and Holiday at Brockmead Scout Campsite. Taken part in some very special events – Remembrance Parade, Poppy Collecting, Thinking Day Disco, Girlguiding South West Region take over Legoland and Fundays at Woodhouse Park. The brownies have shared amazing experiences together, they have grown together in a safe space where they can be themselves. Brownies is for all girls aged seven to ten if you daughter would like to be a part of this adventure please register their interest at: https://www. girlguiding.org.uk/informationfor-parents/register-yourdaughter/ If you would like to help at brownies or become a Guider so more girls can experience the adventure please register at: https://www.girlguiding. org.uk/get-involved/become-avolunteer/register-your-interest/ If you have an inquiry about 1st Falfield and Stone Brownies you can email: brownowl@1fsb. co.uk
News from Thornbury Volunteer Centre CAN you spare 2 hours a month to act as Committee Secretary for 2nd Thornbury Scout Group? It involves attending 1 hour meetings on a Tuesday evening every 2 months with an additional 2 hours preparing the minutes and providing administration support to the group. Would prefer someone who has had experience of scouting and a DBS check will be required. Home-visiting family volunteers are needed in the South Glos and Dursley/Wotton areas to support families in their own
homes with the aim of building the confidence and independence of the family. Home-Start volunteers will offer support, friendship and practical help and be able to commit to a minimum of 2-3 hours per week according to the family’s needs. A DBS check will be required. Alveston Youth Centre is looking for volunteers to join their team to help with the general running of the facilities. This could include any of the following depending on your skills or preferences: admin, accounts; odd jobs; fundraising;
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bookings. For more information contact Thornbury Volunteer Centre on 01454 413392 or email mail@volunteer-thornbury.co.uk A volunteer companion is required for a female with a learning disability in a home in Almondsbury run by Milestones Trust. She would like a volunteer to visit and support her with activities inside and outside of the home and
have someone to talk to and keep her company. The role requires a volunteer to visit once a week and there is flexibility on what day this is. Full induction training provided. For more information on these opportunities, contact Thornbury Volunteer Centre on 01454 413392 or email mail@ volunteer-thornbury.co.uk
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thornburyvoice
October, 2017
25
n MOTORING
A guide to pre-owned cars with Richard Cooke
Second hand Style Richard continues his investigation into the used Alternatively-Fuelled Vehicles (AFV) market. BMW i3, 2014 – present: The Emperor’s New Clothes BMW posits itself as “The Ultimate Driving Machine”, and for nearly ninety years their claim has been credible. You know what to expect from a BMW – smooth engines powering the rear wheels, sound build quality, sporty and often elegant styling that dates well and always a hefty price tag to match. So how many of the traditional BMW characteristics does their mass-market electric offering the i3 fulfil? All but one, and I can’t understand why buyers don’t spot the problem from a hundred yards. On the used market you choose between two models:
the ‘BEV’ (Battery Electric Vehicle, tested here) and the ‘REx’ (Range Extender). The REx comes with a 650cc two cylinder petrol engine, which acts as a generator for the battery rather than driving the wheels. My 33KWh BEV test model offers a real-world range of 110 miles; the lesser 22KWh only 80. The REx broadly doubles these ranges, but uses two gallons of fuel in the process. Inside, the i3 is a mix of interesting and frustrating. There’s plenty of light and space up front, and the dashboard consists of what looks like two iPads with an aircon unit stuck underneath. The door and dash trim finish has been deliberately pared back to “demonstrate sustainability”; it looks cheap and nasty. My test model came with a T-bar sunroof, which is novel but of no practical use. Room in the back is limited
Advert for Thornbury Voice Interested in Rugby? Join Thornbury Rugby Club Everyone is is welcome welcome Everyone Players from aged 5 Players from aged 5 to to adult Adult We now have a ladies team Now a Ladies team Come along as a player or supporter and enjoy a great social life at a truly amateur rugby club England stars Billy and Mako Vunipola joined Thornbury RFC, so why don’t you? For more information go to www.thornburyrfc.co.uk or call Chairman Michael Tinney on 07986 668068
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to two, with access hampered by narrow and pointless ‘suicide’ doors. The boot is super-mini small, and under the bonnet there is room only for charge cables. Things get better on the move – the i3 feels considerably quicker than the quoted 7 seconds to 60mph. Laughably narrow rear tyres struggled for grip at full throttle, but handling is typically excellent and borderline fun. The regenerative braking system is so powerful that you hardly need to use the brakes, just lift off the accelerator and the car slows dramatically. As with most AFVs, the i3 is incredibly simple to drive. The gearbox is a column-mounted automatic selector, further decluttering the dashboard. The i3 has proven reliable so far, and most are still in warranty having covered low mileages. The market for used i3’s is strong and
shallow though, so prices remain high and BMW dealers hold most of the stock. Depreciation, whilst heavy compared to a standard BMW, is nothing against the drop last month’s Nissan Leaf suffers. So if you want a ‘bargain’ used i3, you will struggle. I suggest you wait for the new model to hit the showrooms in the next few months, as that usually pushes second hand prices down. But before you take a test drive, think about booking an eye test first. Because to desire this car, you must overlook the gawky, poorly proportioned mess that BMW have foisted on us. Take those comical 19 inch bicycle wheels that wouldn’t look out of place on a pre-war Austin 7. Or the graceless “look-at-me” rear door and window styling; I cannot get past the way this car looks, which is like a cross between an old Audi A2 and a penny-farthing bicycle. BMW are already putting this battery technology into their standard cars, so one day the i3 may quietly fade away and I will rejoice. Because whether outside Waitrose in Chipping Sodbury or a Bavarian beer hall, the i3 looks ridiculous. Someone had to say it. What to pay: £15k for a 2014 example with 40k miles, to £35k for a 6 month old with 5k miles Next month: Prime Porker
L & J Gulwell
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26
October, 2017
n VIEW FROM THORNBURY AND DISTRICT MUSEUM
The Armstrong Hall complex WITH the future of Thornbury’s Armstrong Hall complex being debated, we look at the history of the premises in Chapel Street. The hall was opened officially on September 8, 1972, by Frank Armstrong, who had been a magistrate in Thornbury for 27 years and also served as chairman of the bench. The hall was named in his honour as he had made a large donation from a family trust to the project. However, it was believed to be some 12 years earlier that the then Thornbury Parish Council started thinking about the possibility of making additions to the Cossham Hall - the former Wesleyan chapel that had been gifted to the town by Handel Cossham in 1888. Cossham said the hall was to be used for “philanthropic, religious, moral, political, educational, musical and general purposes” but that “liquors and tobacco shall not be sold or supplied”.
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It wasn’t until 1965 that a public meeting authorised the council to raise a loan to buy the house at 2 Chapel Street, which adjoined the Cossham Hall and had a large garden - the open space eventually becoming part of the site for the Armstrong Hall. A later public meeting then supported a loan application for £45,000 for the new hall, which was to be connected to the Cossham Hall with the addition of an entrance foyer. Much of the work on the interior of the building was done by volunteers in a community effort, with members of local amateur dramatic and operatic societies led by Keith Sullivan and George Excell designing and installing the stage lighting. Mr Armstrong - a local businessman as well as a JP donated £13,000 to the project and when the scheme was completed, a plaque was unveiled in the foyer, with a “grand dinner buffet” held to
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The Armstrong Hall celebrate the event. Both the Armstrong Hall and the Cossham Hall play a big part in many events and activities in Thornbury, from concerts and the annual Thornbury Arts Festival to flower shows, club meetings and blood donor sessions. The Cossham Hall provides a smaller venue and from its start had a major role in town life. It was a venue for dances, theatrical productions, concerts,
public meetings and private parties and during the Second World War was leased to the War Office for £50 a year. The last performance in the old Cossham Hall was aptly called Final Curtain and took place in September 1971, a year before the Armstrong Hall was opened. Information and opening ceremony photograph supplied by Thornbury and District Museum.
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The official opening ceremony at the Armstrong Hall with, from left, architect Philip Cooper; Stephen Barnwell, chairman of Thornbury Parish Council; Frank Armstrong, Mrs Barnwell, Joan Cox (now Joan Hall), chairman of the Armstrong Hall Committee and Miss FV Armstrong representing the Armstrong Trust.
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October, 2017
27
n NEWS
Fairer funding system to give boost to Thornbury schools SCHOOLS in South Gloucestershire are set to receive a cash boost next year after Education Secretary Justine Greening confirmed the adoption of a new national fairer funding formula. The district has traditionally been one of the least funded local authorities for secondary and primary schools in England and is among 40 local authorities that joined a national campaign
for the introduction of a fairer funding method. The average increase in funding for South Gloucestershire schools, once the formula is fully implemented, is estimated to be around 4.3 per cent. Under the new formula, in 2019-20 all secondary schools will attract at least £4,800 per pupil, while primary schools will get at least £3,500 per pupil.
Slightly smaller amounts per pupil will be allocated in 2018-19 before the full amounts come into force the following year. Among notable increases for Thornbury schools will be an eight per cent rise for Gillingstool Primary and 6.1 per cent for the Castle School. Thornbury and Yate MP Luke Hall said: “As someone
who has been educated in South Gloucestershire state schools, I am delighted that the previous situation where we have missed out has now been righted.” Toby Savage, South Gloucestershire Council’s Cabinet member for schools, said: “We welcome the Government’s announcement of a proper fairer funding formula.
Trapped horse rescued from lorry by Thornbury firefighters A FIRE and rescue team from Thornbury helped rescue a horse which had become trapped in a lorry in Tytherington. The crew were joined by colleagues trained in animal rescue from Bristol at the incident in Duck Street. A vet also attended the scene to sedate the horse, called Slim, before firefighters freed him from the horsebox. They used cutting equipment to create an access to the vehicle before rescuing Slim from inside using strops. Once freed he was able to stand and was left in the care of the vet.
New music group for those with dementia CLASSICAL music is the focus of a new group helping those with dementia. The Dementia Friendly Classical Music Group is holding its first meeting on Monday 16 October from 10.30 - 11.30. Organisers are are looking for interested carers and cared for people who enjoy listening and possibly playing classical music. There are also opportunities for volunteers who would like to lead and help with the running of the group. For more information contact Hilary Jay on 07792 495 367
Comedy musical THE Thornbury Musical Theatre Group are performing the comedymusical ‘The Wedding Singer’ this October at the Armstrong Hall from 25 - 28 October. Performances are 7.30pm nightly, including a matinée on the Saturday at 2.30pm. Tickets from £10.50, group discount available. Contact the Box Office on 07516 270140 or book online at www.tmtg. org.uk.
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n NEWS
October, 2017
Comments prescribed Book challenge as health leaders assess enjoyed by thousands pharmacy services of young readers
PHARMACY services in South Gloucestershire are under the spotlight to find out if they meet the requirements of local people and whether there are any gaps to be filled. Comments made by users will help in the development of a pharmaceutical needs assessment, which will consider demand for pharmacies and how they can be maintained and developed in the future. The assessment will be used by the NHS to make decisions when applications are received for the opening of new pharmacies. It will also provide information when the commissioning of other services is considered as they could be provided by community pharmacies.
Professor Mark Pietroni, South Gloucestershire’s director of public health, said: “Our pharmacies are an important part of the health service, not only for medication but also in providing valuable advice.” He said there were several healthy living pharmacies now established in the district, which offered extra services such as support to quit smoking, and more pharmacies were working towards achieving that status. Professor Pietroni said: “In addition, many pharmacies also offer routine vaccinations, which with the upcoming flu season helps to improve access and uptake of these vital services.” Anyone who wants to make a comment should visit www. southglos.gov.uk/consultation by the deadline of November 27.
MORE than 6,000 children in South Gloucestershire took part in this year’s summer reading challenge. The annual event is run to encourage youngsters aged between four and 11 to carry on reading during the school holiday, with the help of their local library, including the Thornbury service. The challenge involves children getting rewards each time they finish a book, the aim being to read six books borrowed from the library by the time the holiday ends. Medals and certificates are then presented to those who successfully reach the target. This year’s theme for the challenge was Animal Agents, which saw the young readers
solving clues as well as reading their books. Rachael Hunt, vicechairwoman of South Gloucestershire Council, said: “It’s outstanding that so many children joined Animal Agents and kept reading at their local library this summer. “Children’s reading can often dip during the long school holidays but taking part in the challenge helps them to develop their reading skills and confidence so they return to school ready to learn.” This year’s event also involved 70 young people acting as volunteers to help children who took part in the challenge by listening to them talk about their books, as well as helping with activities in the library.
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October, 2017
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29
n NEWS
Paralympian to take the plunge at Thornbury Arts Festival SWIMMER Kate Grey, who just missed out on the medals in the 2008 Beijing Paralympics, will be one of the star guests at the next Thornbury Arts Festival. Kate, 28, competed internationally for many years, also winning silver and bronze medals at the IPC (International Paralympic Committee) world championships. Illness meant she missed out on qualifying for the London 2012 Paralympic Games but it led to her move into the media and although she has since retired from the pool, she now works as a sports reporter, commentator and pundit. Kate is from Thornbury and is a former pupil at the Castle School. She lost her hand in an accident when she was two but it never stopped her enthusiasm for taking part in sport. Kate went on to study at Bath University, where she also trained, and in 2010 was voted the university’s sports personality of the year. At the 2018 arts festival next April, Kate will give a lunchtime talk about growing up with a disability, the highs and lows of being an elite athlete and switching into the world of broadcasting. Another former Castle School student, Andy Clarke, has been booked to give an evening talk about his career as a producer, director, writer and broadcaster for television food series. He has been involved in TV cookery shows for some ten years, including Saturday Kitchen Live and a number of James Martin programmes. The arts festival runs from Friday, April 20, to Saturday, April 28, and as already reported in Thornbury Voice, will be launched by comedian Jeremy Hardy performing on the opening night. A regular on The News Quiz on Radio 4, his other work on the station includes Jeremy Hardy Speaks to the Nation, I’m Sorry I Haven’t a Clue and You’ll Have Had Your Tea. Other festival highlights include a performance by the Birmingham Town Hall Gospel Choir, winners of the first Songs of Praise Gospel Choir of the Year, and actor Rebecca Vaughan
with her award winning drama Jane Eyre: an Autobiography. The remaining programme is still being developed by festival
organisers, who will announce other acts as they are booked. Tickets will go on sale at a later date.
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30
n TENNIS
thornburyvoice
October, 2017
Tennis Club celebrates double promotion
THORNBURY tennis club has started the area’s late summer league buoyed by two promotions in the LTA Avon summer league. The club entered 9 teams of 4 players - five mens’ and four ladies. There were six teams in each league with each team playing each other both home and away. Each match comprised 4 individual matches - all doubles. The top teams contained some county level players and the lower teams included developing players gaining valuable experience of league tennis, with abilities of all levels in between. This allowed players of all standards to enjoy some competitive tennis, with 60 players involved. The ladies’ second team
of Rae Bezuidenhout, Carole Boulton, Linda Mantle and Claire Hawkins secured second place in their division, gaining promotion for next year. They were given great support by Sarah Hurley, Gill Hardy, Mary Bhatti and juniors Brooke Daunton and Suzanna Ogden. The ladies’ first, third and fourth teams all performed well, finishing in mid-table. The five men’s teams competed in divisions 2 to 9, and had a tough time. The first team were affected by some key absences, meaning that some players were playing at a level higher than they’re used to. The juniors were paired with experienced players to help balance experience levels and provide them with support.
Mark Wilkinson & Oscar Harrison (Thornbury Mens IV’s) dominating the net against Portishead III’s.
Fortunately, the men’s second team put in a strong performance and finished second in their division, gaining promotion. The experienced pair of Malcolm Worster and Mike Peatheyjohns, along with the Junior/Senior combination of Luke Johnson and Wayne Russell were those celebrating. The men’s third team finished mid-table. The Annual Club Tournament is now the focus at the club. This is a knockout competition with categories for Men’s & Ladies Singles, Men’s & ladies Doubles and Mixed Doubles. The preliminaries were in September with all the finals taking place on
14 October. Contrary to popular belief, tennis is played throughout the year. The LTA Avon Summer League programme has just finished and the Late Summer League programme has started. Thornbury has 3 teams of four players competing in this league which requires a mixed doubles format. Once this completes, the winter league season starts with Thornbury fielding a further 3 teams of four. The format of the winter league is a combination of mixed and mens’/ladies doubles. The weather at times can be challenging, but the matches always get played – sometimes a little later than planned.
Rae Bezuidenhout, Carole Boulton, Claire Hawkins and Linda Mantle secured promotion for the ladies second team.
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October, 2017
thornburyvoice
n SPORTS
Thornbury Rugby off to a mixed start
Cricketers enjoy solid season as brothers shine THORNBURY Cricket Club’s first team have finished in a strong middle table position in the West of England Glos/Wilts Prem2 division. Dan Davis finished the highest run scorer in the league with 759 runs at an average of 45, with Luke his brother scoring 526 runs. Luke was the clubs highest wicket taker with 25 wickets with Dan taking 21. Luke also took on the captaincy. The second team also finished in a healthy middle table position in the Gloucester County league division 2, just missing out on a top 4 finish The major success for the club though being the promotion of the third team after beating the top two teams in the last two games. The standout players in the side were under 13 players; Praneel Choughle who scored 240 runs in 9 innings at an average of 40, Rhys Price taking 27 wickets, Harrison Wheeler 15 and Alex Riggs 12. At the end of season youth presentation evening, Josh Riggs was presented with the Outstanding Young Cricketer of the year after cementing a place in the second team scoring 272 runs. Praneel was awarded the Most Improved Youth Cricketer of the season.
Third team captain Richard Hawkins opens the champagne after winning promotion
TREE CARE
31
AFTER four league games Thornbury find themselves fourth in the table having won two and lost two. They could, indeed should, have won the two lost games. However they and league leaders Exeter University are the only teams to have earned a try bonus point in each game. Thornbury’s try-scoring rate has been impressive, but defensively they have conceded too many. Thornbury have fielded a very young side so far. The Development Squad, last season’s Gloucestershire league and cup champions and their emergence into the senior squad has been much anticipated. So far this season new head coach Tom Luke has introduced eight teenagers to senior rugby. The first game in Bideford and was marred by a second-
minute injury to Tim Stephens, an experienced centre and capable goal-kicker. Despite a hat-trick of tries from Alfie Richardson Thornbury were unable to turn early dominance into points and lost by a score. The first home game against Launceston, the former National Leagues outfit, saw Thornbury out-score their opponents on tries but pin-point goal-kicking eased the Cornish side to a narrow win. Thornbury won at Bridgwater for the first time in the clubs’ history, a more comprehensive win than the 2619 scoreline would suggest. They also defeated Gloucester side Matson 46-26 in an outstanding game. Jake Wood, who turned 18 the previous weekend, scored 21 points in an fine display.
Jake Goodridge makes a tackle in the match against Matson, with Harry Tarling in support.
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