VOCALISE
Welcome!
Welcome to the summer edition of Vocalise, the community magazine for St. Paul’s, St. Werburgh’s St. Agnes and Montpelier.
Dear reader,
Thank you for picking up the newest edition of Vocalise Magazine. By opening these colourful pages, not only are you supporting the only printed magazine dedicated to our ward, but you are also joining a movement that celebrates the bright and wonderful things that happen in St Pauls, St Agnes, St Werburghs, and Montpelier.
Good things are abundant in our area. Vocalise was born to highlight and champion the positive actions and actors among us: from carnival spirit to community gardens, from local artists and activists making ripples across the city to wonderful organisations that call Ashley their home.
Vocalise is run by a dedicated team of local people. They don’t rely on algorithms or AI to bring you content; they walk our streets and speak to their neighbours. They don’t write to get you to buy more stuff or to control your way of thinking. They write about things that are relevant to them and to anyone living, working, and even just hanging out in our fantastic corner of Bristol. Neighbour to neighbour, human to human.
I hope you enjoy this Summer Edition of Vocalise Magazine that the team has put together for you. And if you do, please consider supporting it. You can bring copies to your neighbours or local shop, volunteer your time and skills, sign up for their online newsletter, or follow Vocalise on social media. I’m not going to lie—printing an attractive magazine like this does cost money, so please consider donating if you can.
Happy Summer!
Silvia Jiménez Cruz
Published by:
Vocalise Bristol CIC
Backfields House
Upper York Street
Bristol
BS2 8QJ
Co-ordinated and designed by: Julia Widz
Thanks to all our volunteers and directors.
Vandna Mehta (Founder)
Judit Davis (Director)
Hilary Finch (Director)
//Kabbo Hue Qua (Director)
Julia Widz (Project Coordinator)
Ian Jones
Anna Ruggiero
Lucille Smith
Bob Lawson
Silvia Jiménez Cruz
Also special thanks to all our contributors.
Front cover:
Mural by Vandalist Murals and Stvis Art. Photo by Hilary Finch, our amazing director!
Vectors and photos from: Vecteezy.com.
Vocalise Bristol CIC
Donate here
Introducing...
You may have seen the new murals on the side of the air b n b opposite Sonni’s on Mina Road. This is a colab between Stivs Art and Vandalist Murals. They are street art versions of Art Nouveau. ‘Traditionally art nouveau features fair haired women so I used my partner and Stivsart used another friend of ours’. It’s Tommy’s partner, Lucy, the mother of their 1 year old, who is featured on our cover. Tommy graduated from UWE with a Degree in Fine art in 2017 ‘Although I didn’t do any graffiti at uni my roots are in street art, and this was always the plan. I have been doing this since I was 13.’
I caught up with Tommy The Vandalist as he was doing what he called his breadand-butter work painting a mural at a
Vandalist Murals Stvis Art
Written by Lucille Smith
vintage car place in Westbury. If you have ever been to an AirHop party room its Tommy’s work, you can see when they light up the UV murals. Even more exiting than this, Tommy was featured in Jo Rush’s Carhenge at Glastonbury Festival this year. The portraits on the cars, each one of a underground rock icon, were painted by Tommy including a including an artistic tribute to the late Keith Flint, whose band The Prodigy, closed The Other Stage on Sunday night and a portrait of a young Michael Eavis (pictured)
If you would to see more of their work or enquire about a mural for your home or business you can find them on insta @ Vandalist_Murals @Stivsart
Do you want to promote your business or event? Vocalise reaches over 10,000 residents per issue.
Do you want to support your local area? Vocalise has the community at its heart
Get in touch... info@vocalisemagazine.org Advertise Here!
The importance of life's small pleasures
Written by Anna Ruggiero Certified Hypnotherapist
‘Smallpleasures are the last healthy refuge in a complex world’ Oscar Wilde.'
Hey Bristol. I hope you are all enjoying some beautiful summer vibes in the city and this summer.
As the days feel hotter, and the nights are longer, it's the time of year when I feel myself naturally slowing down a little and being pulled towards the outdoors and a simpler way of existing.
We are so often consumed by the big events in life, the milestones of what we perceive to make for a successful life – a fancy career, a big house, a shiny car, the list goes on. But what if the real magic in life is made up of something much better than those big fancy moments, what if we started to notice the small pleasure that exist subtly in everyday life?
When we start to ‘tune’ into the small pleasures of life, our awareness grows alongside our gratitude for each and every precious moment.
We can start to find happiness in the here and now, and we don’t have to search very far to find these small pleasures as they exist all the time, we just need to pay a little more attention.
After realising how much happier and content I started to feel once I took note of all the small every-day pleasures in my life, I felt inspired to share some of them with you lovely Vocalise readers.
My small pleasures happy list: Coffee! I love the smell, the taste and the gentle preparation each morning of making the perfect cup of coffee. Eating breakfast outside! Whether it be camping, sat on a balcony looking out at a beautiful view, or in the garden with my mum or partner, eating breakfast outside always reminds of life's best pleasures, fresh air and food! Catching someone you love smiling to themselves. I love that moment after you have shared a joke, or kiss with someone special, and you catch them gently smiling to themselves in their own little world of happiness.
Learning to identify plants, trees and flowers! This is a wonderful small pleasure and really helps me to connect on a deeper level to the natural world. Sending surprise gifts to people you love. The whole process of surprising people with gifts is one of my favourites all time small pleasures. I love buying the gift and most importantly, I love how happy they are to receive something lovely in the post!
Spending time in nature. So often in life, we tend to rush from thing to the next with little time in-between. One small pleasure that always reminds me to slow down is watching nature do its thing. Whether it be looking at the sunshine as it shines through the trees, noticing new flowers appear in the garden, listening to the waves as they crash on the shore, nature never fails to remind me that it really does hold the key to many of life’s beautiful small pleasures.
If you find yourself feeling low or stuck in your own mind, why not take a bit of ‘you time’ and put some pen to paper gently noting what small pleasures make you happy. You will find it really does lift your mood and raises your awareness to the everyday magic that life has to offer, one small pleasure at a time.
The Time, The Place
We set two alarms just to be sure; wake on cue at 4:15am. Out on the empty, yawning street, lamplights shine on morning blue. A beaky chorus echoes round the park. It’s early, so early. Some people haven’t even gone to bed yet. But we’re not your usual night owls. And we’re not up to catch a flight or work a shift or steal a car. No, we’re off on a date. Going to meet a star.
Down Mina Road, past shuttered shops and bulging bins. A carefree crossing at the mini- roundabout. Penfield Court, on pause, dreams of lives well lived. So quiet outside The Miner’s you could hear a pin(t) drop. 28 Days Later, less zombies. We take a right at The Church and begin the steep ascent up Cut Throat Lane. Nothing grisly to report, but beware brambles and mind those stingers on bare legs.
Other venues are available. Cabot Tower could have worked, Dundry Hill would have done. But if you’re lucky enough to live anywhere near BS2, there’s a more immediate option. An inner-city Stonehenge, Avebury and Glastonbury Tor all rolled into one. We’re making for The Mound.
The signage reassures us, beckons us on. “Welcome to Narroways Millennium Green. Enjoy your visit to the Hill.” The Trust is 21st century modern, but the site is ancient; scrub, hedgerows, meadows and woodland stretching back through time.
Off the path now, through the turnstile, steps leading up to an open plateau. Panoramic views; a magical space. A place to meet with friends, to laugh, to chat, to shoot the breeze; to celebrate, and commemorate. A place to sit alone, to recharge, to reconnect with nature; to feel on top of things. And this morning, on Saturday, 21st June 2025,
21st June 2025
Written by Ian Jones Narroways,
to join with other early birds to watch the sun rise over our city on Summer Solstice, the longest day.
So this is where everyone is! A huddle of humanity united in common purpose, we join the free-form gathering on the dry grass. Standing. Sitting. Anticipating. Someone is doing yoga, a blur of legs cartwheels by. A couple on a picnic blanket wait with the Zen-like serenity of pros. We’re novices in comparison, phones primed and ready for action. East is over there, right?
Just before 5:00am, we’re rewarded. Sun, sun, sun, here it comes! Creeping out from behind the trees. Peering through industrial railings (no sarsen stones for us!). A golden glow, grabbing our attention, beginning its stately ascent. We watch, captivated in a communal moment. Children of the sun. High above, contrails cut the morning sky; sometimes the best adventures are closest to home.
People peel off, heading down the hill. We feel virtuous, energised. The day stretches out before us, bursting with potential. We could do anything! We’re back asleep by six.
St Werburghs Community Update
Picnic in the Park 2025 - Sunday 7th September, 1pm – 5pm Mina Road Park, St Werburghs, BS2 9TW
Picnic in the Park is a free and open to all, community-led and orientated event ran by St Werburghs Community Centre. Come along and bring your picnic blanket to Mina Road Park and enjoy an afternoon of music, arts and entertainment. We’re excited to be able to showcase everything St Werburghs Community Centre has on offer and celebrate the creativity and diversity of our area.
Join us for a wide range of entertainment and activities, including:
- Performances: Live music, dance and DJ sets
- Workshops and activities: Have a go at a taster session or get involved in some arts activities
- Stalls: Meet local organisations, artists and makers
- Kid’s area: Free bouncy castle, ice cream van, craftss and much more
- Wellbeing area: Breathe in the fresh air and relax with lots of
treatments and workshops
- Raffle: Win some amazing prizes from local Bristol businesses
- Food and Drink: Enjoy some delicious Ethiopian food from Ababo’s Cuisine, and grab a drink from the Fierce and Noble bar
It is not about big bands and fancy stalls - it’s about local people performing, playing and sharing a great day with their families, friends and neighbours. We’re looking forward to seeing you all there!
Get involved – we need you!
Picnic in the Park is a truly communityled affair so it can be whatever you want it to be! We have many opportunities to get involved and be a part of our event. We’re looking for people to volunteer, perform, lead an activity or run a stall.
If you’re a local organisation that can support our event – either by donating a raffle prize or sponsoring an activity – we would also love to hear from you. To get in touch, please contact Ella at events@stwerburghs. org.uk or call the Centre on 0117 955 1351 .
Be part of our Community Hub
Are you part of a local group that could benefit from some meeting space? Would you like to run a community event but don’t know where to host it? We want to hear from you!
As a Community Hub for Ashley, St Werburghs Community Centre can support local groups to access up to 12hours of free room hire at our community centre. This can be for any size room on any day of the week, subject to availability.
Eligible groups include nonconstituted groups, small charities, CICs, voluntary groups and communities of interests. The activity or event must benefit and/ or engage Ashley residents. We will prioritise existing groups led by Ashley residents that are new to the Community Centre. Please note that political and faith groups are not eligible.
For smaller groups, we can also offer free space on our Community Table which sits up to 8 people and is available for free to any group or individual. This guarantees you use of our large table in our lobby for your group.
If you would like to have an informal chat about being part of our Community Hub, please get in touch with Silvia on silvia@stwerburghs. org.uk or call 0117 955 1351.
Climate Action Plan for Ashley
A Community Climate Action Plan is a document that outlines actions that a community can achieve to reduce the effects of climate change and adapt to the challenges they might be facing as a result of it. There are already so many great things happening in our local area, having a Community Climate Action Plan will enable these efforts to be more widely recognised and to identify gaps and new ideas.
We want to ensure that this Climate Action Plan responds to the priorities and needs of the people who live in our local area, and that it sets realistic and effective actions for climate resistance. We want to invite local residents and organisations interested in participating to join these efforts.
If you would like to find out more, please email us on climateaction@ stwerburghs.org.uk.
Thoughts from an Oldie
I'm pretty good at keeping deadlines but this month l've struggled to find a subject to ramble on about! There's a heatwave going on here but other people are dying and suffering dramatic floods and fires in many parts of the world and the wars keep going on - and here l am in a relatively safe country but wary of doing too much in the heat as l am old.
We are fortunate in St Werburghs to have Mina Road Park with a stream l can at least put my feet in, huge trees offering shade and a pretty good kids play area where l take my two great grandsons who live on the Dye works site. But what l miss here are shops other than booze and food. Yes there is Artrageous (expensive) and the Scrapstore (good value) but no chemists for convenience or charity shops to browse in. I gave up my car several years ago and my driving licence is out of date so l can't borrow one of the free electric bikes to wander off somewhere. The 25 bus can take me to Fishponds but no longer via Snuff Mills and stops about 7 in the evening limiting access to evening entertainment. Yes l get the occasional taxi from Dads Cabs but if l want to do something in town it all adds to the cost. Watching TV has become my evening go to after the occasional pint or G&T at one of the local pubs. Oh yes, then there is playing word games on my phone, much too addictive! I used to read a lot but hard work now with old eyes.
written by Hilary Finch
Curious, most areas around Bristol are losing pubs for one reason or another, but despite St Werburghs being a relatively small area, we have seven (two of them being breweries as well), and at least nine restaurants, cafes and takeaways. However l mostly cook for myself from a mixture of Fareshare and shop bought foods to keep costs down. I am, after all, living on my state pension and even with my pension credits my cash flow does not stretch to fancy living!
I was glad to hear the St Pauls carnival events seem to have gone well this year. I had to go to Bath so missed it but was grateful for a lift both there and back.
St Pauls Advice Centre
St Pauls Advice Centre Relocates After 53 Years of Community Advocacy
After over five decades of service to the local community, St Pauls Advice Centre has announced its relocation to a new, fully accessible venue, just a 10-minute walk from its longstanding home in St Pauls.
“Given the supportive role we’ve played for generations of people in our former neighbourhood, this was not a decision we took lightly,” said Rob, the charity’s Executive Director. “Whilst we’re now more accessible to East Bristol, we’re adamant on maintaining strong ties to the St Pauls community.”
“Demand for our service is rising every year. It’s essential we can still meet it, in a comfortable, safe, and spacious venue,” Rob added.
Established in 1972, the Centre has been a vital support hub for thousands across St Pauls, Ashley, and East Bristol, offering free, specialist advice on immigration, debt, and welfare benefits. The move marks a significant new chapter in the organisation’s long-standing commitment to challenging poverty and inequality.
The new offices were officially opened in May by Roger Griffith MBE, a prominent Bristol-based writer, lecturer, and social commentator known for his work on race, history, and community development.
Roger, who grew up experiencing homelessness and unemployment, began his career as a Trainee Housing Adviser in St Pauls. He described how it was a “lovely personal piece of symmetry” for him to open St Pauls Advice Centre’s new venue.
Founded in response to community needs during a time of systemic neglect, St Pauls Advice Centre played a pivotal role during the 1980 St Pauls Uprising, helping to develop a community-led defence campaign. By the mid-1980s, it had expanded to offer outreach services for racially minoritised communities, Disabled people, and older residents, empowering them to exercise their rights.
Today, the Centre operates as a trusted, multi-lingual team of 17 staff and 7 volunteers. As well as serving clients from its offices, the Centre also runs regular dropin sessions at five community hubs, aiming to reach people before their issues escalate.
Rob France emphasised the charity’s commitment to its former neighbourhood: “Our history is deeply rooted in St Pauls, and that connection will never fade. This move allows us to keep being there for those struggling, whilst staying close to the communities that have made St Pauls Advice Centre what it is today.
“To the communities of St Pauls, Ashley, and East Bristol, we feel honoured to have served you over the years and will continue to welcome you here whenever you need.”
The new location is fully wheelchair accessible and situated along a step-free route from the previous site.
Bristol Voices
Bristol Voices is a community choir which meets at St Werburghs Primary School between 7.30 – 9.30pm every Wednesday during term time. We celebrated our 25th anniversary this year and consider ourselves to be one of the best community choirs in Bristol. We usually give 2 – 3 public performances a year.
It’s surprising what a lovely sound can be achieved by a good number of people, some of whom think they can’t sing!
We have a charismatic, funny, brilliant choirmaster, Jeremy Avis. We asked Jeremy some questions we thought you might find helpful:
1. What are the musical influences and background you bring to the choir?
I grew up on a diet of swing (from my dad) and Bach and G and S (from my mum) so they might be described as early influences, however my background as a choir boy also influenced me hugely within the English choral tradition.
However I soon started playing rock music at school (I was a Deep Purple fan aged 9!) and spent much of my teenage years both playing in school rock bands and going busking with a Barbershop quartet: so these were
written by Marion Lovell-Jones
early influences. Once I turned 18 I started to travel and spent over two years listening to traditional music in central and West Africa before 3 years spent living in the middle East. So to be honest a lot of musics passed across my ears and influence and inspire me to this day.
2. What do you enjoy about working with a Community choir?
I love the way singing together forges friendships and a sense of togetherness. Over time you get to know the people you are teaching and can be responsive to their particular interests and enthusiasms. There is just something inspiring about seeing ordinary people excelling themselves and being joyously surprised at the pleasure of making harmonies acapella together without any prior training. Singing in harmony is especially sweet when done by people who are learning by ear.
I really get excited by trying to give hobby singers the experience of singing in a way that is thrilling and uplifting.
3. How is singing good for both physical and mental health?
Well on the basic physical level singing works as a controlled breathing exercise, improving lung capacity, oxygen circulation, and even cardiovascular health too. Breathing in deeply and then out slowly also helps the body let go of stress hormones like cortisol while releasing endorphins, the body's natural mood elevators. Singing literally makes you feel better!
Also the way singing requires you to breathe in and out rhythmically in time with the musical phrases helps regulate breathing patterns which really help with basic stamina and breathing conditions things like asthma/COPD.
Singing also activates multiple brain regions simultaneously. This literally helps clear the head and activates the various types of memory, a workout for the mind!
Finally singing also stimulates the magic vagus nerve, which regulates the nervous system and promotes relaxation and good sleep. Of course singing together in a group of like-minded people also creates social connection and can reduce feelings of isolation. When you feel good and are connected with others in rhythm and melody, you make friends and connections more easily than in everyday life.
On top of that you also feel part of something bigger than yourself….all this has a great impact on general well-being.
4. What would your message be to anyone thinking of joining a choir
Firstly you will be fine, joining a choir is easy…just take the plunge!
It’s good to know that our community choir is a truly welcoming and friendly space and my sessions are there to make everyone feel they belong.
You don’t need to read music or even have any prior experience of singing.
You learn how to sing simply by doing it and Bristol Voices is a great supportive community where you can learn how to take your first steps.
You will soon be part of a group of likeminded individuals making glorious and uplifting sounds together…
All the songs you learn have supporting materials such as words sheets and recordings of your parts so you can practice at home easily and remind yourself of the tunes during the week (as well as have something to sing out loud in the car!)
Fairfields High School
Isla, a Year 7 student at Fairfield High School is making waves as a rising star in the world of dance, earning recognition on a national level. Remarkably, whilst Isla only began dancing in 2021, she now trains nearly 15 hours a week — a true testament to her dedication, talent and drive.
Most recently, Isla competed in the prestigious Iconic Freestyle Competitions held in Stoke-on-Trent. Performing in the under-14s category, she impressed judges with her skill and stage presence, securing second and fourth place in the ‘slow’ and ‘fast’ dances respectively. Isla’s achievements highlight not only her talent, but her rapid progress and commitment to excellence in a demanding sport.
Isla explains that it hasn’t always been an easy journey: “When I started dancing, I really wasn’t that good! I started entering competitions just for fun, winning a few medals here and there. However because my slow dancing is quite mature, when I moved to the under 14s category, that’s when things really took off! I’ve found a style of dance that showcases my strength and I’m excited about what the future holds.”
“I would recommend to anyone wanting to try out a new hobby or sport to give it a go.
It will be difficult at first, but it does get easier and you will improve the more you try. My body has changed so much and become more flexible the last few years. My confidence too has grown because I’m dancing in front of people and putting myself out there.”
Sharmaine, Isla’s mum adds: “I am a super proud, and slightly embarrassing, Mum who has seen Isla grow stronger and more confident with every step over the past few years. We all truly believe that, if she carries on this path, she will be a famous face who may even be looking after me someday!”
Isla hopes that, in the future, she will have the opportunity to attend international dance conventions, with destinations such as the United States among her dreams.
Summer Recipes
Mango, Wild Rocket, and Tomato Salad
Ingredients:
- 1 ripe mango, peeled and cubed
- 2 large handfuls wild rocket (arugula)
- 60–80g soft goat cheese (fresh chèvre), crumbled (use chickpeas for a vegan recipe)
- 1 medium tomato or a handful of cherry tomatoes, sliced
- ½ cup crispy fried onions (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar or lemon juice
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions:
First, prepare the ingredients by peeling and cubing the mango, crumbling the goat cheese, slicing the tomatoes, and having your crispy onions ready, whether store-bought or homemade.
Next, spread the wild rocket evenly across a large plate or mixing bowl, then scatter the mango cubes and tomato slices on top.
After that, sprinkle the crumbled goat cheese (or chickpeas if preferred) and crispy onions over the salad.
Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar or lemon juice, then season lightly with salt and cracked black pepper.
If you like, add a handful of toasted nuts or seeds such as walnuts or pumpkin seeds for extra crunch. Finally, toss the salad gently and serve immediately to keep the onions crispy and fresh.
Turkish Eggs in Garlic Sauce
Ingredients: YOGURT:
- 250 ml Greek yogurt
- 1 garlic clove
- 0.5 teaspoon lemon juice
- 0.5 tablespoon chopped dill + for garnish
- salt and pepper
AROMATIC BUTTER:
- 60 g butter
- 1 teaspoon paprika powder
- 0.5 teaspoon ground cumin
POACHED EGGS
4 eggs
AND fresh mint bread
Instructions: Mix the Greek yogurt with garlic pressed through a garlic press, lemon juice, chopped dill, salt, and pepper. Spread on the bottom of the plates.
Prepare the aromatic butter: melt it in a pan, bring to a boil, remove the foam, and continue heating on low heat for about 2 minutes until it releases its aroma. Remove from heat, add paprika and cumin, and stir.
Prepare the poached eggs: bring water to a boil in a pot, stir with a spoon creating a whirlpool. Crack an egg into a small bowl and then gently slide the egg from the edge of the bowl into the swirling water. Cook over medium heat for about 3 minutes until the white is set but the yolk remains soft. Remove with a slotted spoon and place on the yogurt. Serve 2 poached eggs per portion.
Drizzle with aromatic butter, sprinkle with dill and fresh mint leaves. Serve with bread.
St Paul’s Carnival Wrap 2025
To Carnival or Not Too Carnival!
To Carnival or Not Too Carnival? Was there ever any doubt that people would show up? And show up they did on Saturday, July 5, 2025. Thousands, dressed to the glittering T’s, lining St Paul’s streets, in full carnival-stylie mode. We were heaving to the ritual sonic pulse and vibrations of soundsystem culture, in true carnival spirit. It was amazing! I’m driven by nostalgia to recall the sweet and spicy aromas of Caribbean street food filling the air. St Paul’s Carnival Day’s street celebrations were cancelled, yet the turnout of revellers contradicted this. It was energising, if nothing else, it highlighted Carnival’s enduring spirit.
However, I’m aware that other members of the community are working on a letter of concern regarding the events that unfolded on the 5th. We were invited; “... to be mindful? What happened …, was not St. Paul's Carnival, nor did they support it … ” the message continued; “ … only two or three streets had organised the closure of their streets legally. The rest was pure and utterly people doing for themselves with no give back to the community… ”. I empathise with this sentiment, as it was chaotic with people walking on active streets. It was a miracle that, allegedly, only one serious incident occurred. Our ancestors truly watched over us.
Recent history should have prepared us for what transpired. The cancellation caused by a lack of support mattered not. People were setting up from sunrise, as is the custom. Sound systems boomed rhythmic vibrations from Ska, Rocksteady, Reggae, cue world music;
Written By //Kabbo Hue Qua Tura
into Bristol’s very own indigenous and traditional “Bristol Sound(s)” of Jungle, Drum & Bass and “Trip Hop”. Our cultural thermometer has been reset; the question is to what end? Members of the St Paul’s community feel undermined. This experience is not foreign to us, as a people living, loving and enriching the social fabric of the UK.
St Paul's Carnival is a local and national cultural treasure. It’s shameful that it’s not supported as it deserves from the government. We’re poorer for it, without it and need to reinvolve ourselves again and again. It is that important, and needs to be protected by the descendants of its creators. We risk losing an important part of our cultural heritage. A living expression of our collective agency and resilience. Created amid a hostile environment by our elders for us. A beacon of cultural sustenance, ingenuity, beauty and pride for our children and thus to the benefit of all society.
The soul of Carnival is the Afrikan and Caribbean community. Only we can restore it to its true cultural cohesive potential. Yes, the community wants and needs collaboration. They want it within supporting capacities and not in leadership and/or leading roles. The joy experienced on the streets is evidence of its harmonising impact. The temperament of Bristol communities allows me to at least dream of this possibility. Carnivals around the world are facing similar challenges.
Yet, people keep on doing carnival on their terms, nonetheless. Witnessing people setting up sound systems, selling food and fruit punch, ‘inna di yard’ giving it a truly ‘back a yard’ feel. Young people were managing portable toilets at £5 a turn. An invigorating experience observing the community’s entrepreneurial spirit. An opportunity that only Carnival creates.
Carnival would not be complete without some form of procession. I followed a Maracatu marching band that went from Brunswick Square to Montpellier. Enjoyed a good dance and played some Capoeira Angola to the rhythms. Afterwards, I spoke to one of the musicians, Diana Sabogal, a percussionist in the Afro-Brasilian procession band tradition, Afon Sistema.
What did you think about Carnival? She said: “I was surprised by the number of people and sound systems that were present, although it wasn't an official carnival. I am always touched to see people from different generations, ethnic groups coming together and enjoying themselves. We need more places where people come together like this. She continued: “I liked performing Maracatu here. It's always my favourite performance of the year. It just feels right, and people savour our musical offering. The essence of Maracatu and Carnival is Afrikan, and perhaps why it was received so well. It’s got that bass, and because of Bristol’s drum & bass culture, people naturally vibe to it. It's connected to Afrikan spiritual ancestry that was brought to Brazil through enslave-
ment. It’s our way to honour the musical traditions, I just loved seeing people smiling, dancing and appreciating the music.”
There were officially sanctioned events as part of the watered-down “Back-a-Yard” events’ offering by the carnival board. Another bone of contention that the community feels dissatisfied with. A different approach is needed. St Paul's has spoken by coming together and organising their own celebrations. Other members insist that it was fraught and cannot continue in this vein. We are at a nexus point of discontent vs cultural cohesion. Now we need to find a balanced collaboration between the current custodians, the community and the Council to bring back St Paul’s Carnival in 2026. At least that is what I’m hoping for.
One
Love!
Atonement & Reparations Motion Bristol
the Moment!
“The passing of this motion will be the first milestone in a long journey that began centuries ago,” - Jendayi Serwah, 2021.
On 2 March 2021, the City Council passed the Motion for Atonement & Reparations for Bristol’s role in the Transatlantic Traffic in Enslaved Afrikans. Historic in gesture, initiated by years of courageous grassroots campaigning by local and international activists. A power-sharing city is a worthy and possible cause. Uniquely, situating Bristol as the ideal, fertile ground of cultural diversity for seeding a new, culturally cohesive city. A dignified, equitable socioeconomic home for all. Thankfully
The significance of this notion cannot be overstated. Addressing this crime against humanity is non-negotiable for our individual and global societal well-being. The motion passed at an extraordinary council meeting that I attended and contributed to. Invigorating continuing support for a reparations and atonement strategy and plan. This initiative is led by grassroots organisations and is being developed with local and global multisectoral input.
The aim is to address the city’s role in the transatlantic trafficking of enslaved Afrikans and its lingering legacy of injustice. We can now start creating the conditions for ourselves to flourish as a city. However, Bristol’s call for an all-party parliamentary commission of inquiry is still to be heard by the government. A hopeful sense of ‘not if, but when?’ persists. Minds are now focused on thinking about how reparations can and will be delivered.
The question that has the beneficiaries of the profits of this wilful act of kidnapping, cultural sabotage and terror in human trafficking of enslaved Afrikans is: “Who must pay and why?”. One of the most widely used rebuttals is: “Why must we pay for what our ancestors did, it wasn't us, we did not do it?” I’ve been asked this question myself and admittedly had trouble answering until.
That fateful day on 9 February 2018, when the HM Treasury Department tweeted on their “surprising #FridayFact” page and wrote, “Millions of you helped end the slave trade through your taxes,” continuing, “Did you know? In 1833, Britain used £20 million, 40% of its national budget, to buy freedom for all slaves in the Empire. The amount of money borrowed for the Slavery Abolition Act was so large that it wasn’t paid off until 2015. (Sic) “Which means that living British citizens helped pay to end the slave trade.”
That amounts to the modern day equivalent of £17bn that was paid out to compensate slave owners for the loss of their human property and nothing offered to the freed Afrikans. People are expressing genuine shock and embarrassment that nobody wants to acknowledge or take any sort of
Words by //Kabbo Hue Qua Tura In
responsibility for it, let alone apologise for this crime against humanity. The claiming of generational innocence thus does not suffice in the wake of this disheartening revelation.
How things are progressing since the Motion was passed four years ago?
Reparations as Afrikan Liberation - A Power-Building Strategy for Pan-Afrikan Liberation is the leading reparations framework on the issue in the UK.
Conscientiously guided by Esther Xosei, renowned international legal expert in reparations and Co-Founder of the Stop the Maangamizi: We Charge Genocide / Ecocide Campaign and supported by respected cultural activist the calibre of Jendayi Serwah, Cleo Lake and the esteemed Asher Craig. Supported by organisations like Afrikan Conexions Consortium, Bristol Legacy Foundation and Black Southwest Network, to name but a few.
Esther has been at the forefront of the reparations movement since 2014, seeding the Atonement Motion’s origins and culminating in the annual Pan-Afrikan Reparations Rebellion Groundings (PARRG) on 1st Mosiah(1 August). A Pan-Afrikan procession through the streets of London to Westminster annually. The ritual is grounded by the handing over of the petition calling for the All Party Commission. She is currently on a nationwide awarenessraising campaign.
Here are some of the key tenets of the evolving reparations plan:
1. Rememory
*“How we proceed with repair depends on how we remember” - Robin D.G. Kelly
- Reparations by our own People's Power! Stop the Maangamizi!
- We Charge Genocide/Ecocide!
* Overstanding the Maangamizi Maangamizi = Afrikan Holocaust/Hellacaust with ongoing manifestation - Historical crimes: Enslavement, Colonisation, Neocolonialism,Genocide - Continued impacts: Structural Racism, Economic exploitation, Cultural denigration, Environmental racism, Political marginalisation.
2. All-Party Parliamentary Commission of Inquiry for Truth and Reparatory Justice.
*Formal mechanism to acknowledge historical injustice.
*Creates official space for community testimony and evidence.
*Forces institutional accountability through documentation.
*Establishes a framework for policy development.
*Shifts power dynamics by centring Afrikan perspectives in policy-making.
The background to the Motion for Atonement & Reparations for Bristol’s role in the Transatlantic Traffic in Enslaved Afrikans started here and is mobilising for the next steps. Bristol’s motion has 4 resolutions that are essential in guiding us to embrace the healing potential of collective reparations.
In the words of Cleo Lake: “This motion today is about equity and understanding … towards our own reparations plans …, Reparations, as I hope was made clear … goes beyond (just) monetary compensation. The contribution of African civilization, culture and people versus how we have been treated is one of the world’s great paradoxes”
One Love!
More Info: https://stopthemaangamizi. com, https://www.accglocal.org/ afrikan-reparations/, https://www.praler.net
Celebrating
What a weekend! Against the backdrop of a scaled-down official St. Pauls Carnival, the Full Circle Project’s ‘Join Di Mas’ Youth Parade shone brightly—an unforgettable display of culture, creativity, and community spirit that brought the heart of St Paul’s to life.
Young people from across the area proudly danced through the streets in handmade mas costumes, each one crafted during our community workshops with the guidance of incredible local artists and designers Kulcher Lee and Carene Leslie. It was a celebration of youth empowerment and Caribbean heritage, made even more powerful by the unity it represented.
This year’s parade wasn’t just about the costumes or the music—it was a statement of resilience. Despite funding cuts and a scaled-back Carnival programme, our community showed up in full force. Families lined the streets, neighbours reconnected, and generations came together in the true spirit of St Paul’s. This is the power of community-led celebration - when official platforms scale down, we scale up in togetherness.
We’re especially proud to mark this event during a milestone year for Full Circle: our 45th anniversary of serving the St Paul’s community. Since our beginnings in 1979 (and with roots going back even further to the late 60s through pioneers like Marion), we’ve been a hub for youth, elders, and families—a place of possibility, care, and connection. Serving four generations, we continue to build on our legacy with authenticity, heart, and purpose.
We’re deeply grateful to our amazing partners who helped bring the parade to life: Felix Road Adventure Playground,
Written by Tawny Buck and Charmaine Lawrence Community, Culture & 45 Years of Full Circle
Holiday Hub, Southmead Adventure Playground, Ujima Radio, Eastside Trust, St Werburghs Community Centre, Reparations Bristol, Chaysestar Entertainment, and Young Bristol's Got Talent. Your collaboration strengthens our work and reminds us what collective care truly looks like.
As we reflect on the joy and success of ‘Join Di Mas’, we invite you to keep the momentum going by joining us for our Community Open Day on Saturday 19th July, from 12–5pm at our home base, Docklands Community Centre.
This free, family-friendly event will be a celebration of all we offer year-round, from breakdancing and yoga, to breakfast clubs, professional development, parenting support, and more. There’ll be music, games, treats, a sizzling BBQ, and plenty of chances to connect with the vibrant people and programmes that make Full Circle Docklands so special.
Whether you’ve been with us for years or are just discovering what we do, there’s a place for you here!
Once again, a massive thank you to our FCP Team, delivery partners, volunteers, families and young people who make Full Circle Project the heartbeat of our community.
Storyhunt
Bristol families can embark on a unique digital storytelling experience at Ashton Court Estate this summer, with the launch of Storytale Festival’s free Storyhunt adventure on 1st August.
Storyhunt combines a short walking trail on the estate with a story that references real-life features of the grounds and some of its wildlife. Families will help protagonist Miley the Mouse find her way to the most magical party of the year, solving riddles and meeting enchanting creatures along the way.
Aimed at three to nine year olds, there is a series of story sections to track down and unlock with answers. The trail lasts around 30 minutes at walking pace starting at Ashton Court’s Courtyard Cafe, where children can also collect a reward once they’ve completed the story.
The story was created by local writer and cultural historian Zakiya McKenzie, with Bristol-based children’s book illustrator Lauren Tobia bringing her characters to life in the illustrations.
Storytale Festival has been championing children’s
A Free Summer Holiday Story Experience to Ashton Court Estate
literature and local creative talent in Bristol since 2019 through in-person events. This is their first digital venture.
“It’s been a pleasure developing the digital Storyhunt adventure with Zakiya and Lauren,” comments Storytale Festival Founder Ellie Freeman. “With our main festival on pause in 2025, it’s fantastic to still be able to bring accessible literary experiences to the city’s community spaces, like the beautiful Ashton Court Estate.
“We can’t wait for families to meet Miley the Mouse and spend some quality time together centred around storytelling.”
Families can extend the adventure at home with colouring sheets featuring Lauren Tobia’s character illustrations, available to download from the Storytale Festival website once the trail has been completed.
The Storytale adventure can be accessed via https://www.storytalefestival.com/ storyhunt/ on a smartphone and will be available all summer.
Volunteer with Vocalise
Are you looking to get some experience in social media? Would you like to get involved in a local magazine? We are looking for a volunteer to run our social media and a newsletter connecting local organisations with our community members. No experience needed, you will be mentored by a communications and engagement officer from St Werbughs Community centre, Silvia. The role will only need your two hours a week, with a desk space in the community centres, ideally on Mondays. You will have the opportunity to gain experience in a magazine, attend community events and learn the ins and outs of online marketing! Get in touch to info@vocalisemagazine.org with a couple of sentences about yourself and why you want to get involed.
Our Bank Details: Vocalise Bristol CIC 20662491, 16-58-10.
Let's Talk About Race (yes,
Join the Diverse Artists Network (DAN) on Thursday, 11 September, 6pm-9pm, at the St Paul’s Learning Centre, for an interactive, group conversation about race and community resilience. Please arrive at 5.30pm for a 6pm start.
In the wake of the far right riots of last summer, and the rise of populist fascism both here inour country and elsewhere, DAN would like to create a safe space where people can speak freely, and be heard and understood, through facilitated conversation and creative workshop elements.
Race can be a loaded, painful and highly incendiary subject, and talking about it in public spaces can be challenging. But, as we face increasing division and uncertainty, DAN is asking the questions:
● How can we come together in community?
● What do people feel they need to say within a safe space?
● And how can we use creativity to help people heal and connect to themselves and each other? Donate here!
For more information, visit the diverseartistsnetwork.com to subscribe to DAN’s newsletter. Or email hello@diverseartistsnetwork.com.
Vocalise Bristol CIC
Baba Ganoush Kitchen
Dael and Shad, owners of Jerusalem Falafel and Baba Ganoush Kitchen, have been in the falafel business for many years and in several locations.
Before settling—along with their dog, Rudy—on the corner of St Nicholas Road in St Paul's, they spent years perfecting their craft.
That was seven years ago, and since then they've established one of the best falafel wrap spots in town.
Their reputation is backed up by being voted, five years in a row, among the top 10% of falafel destinations worldwide, as honored by TripAdvisor’s 'Travelers’ Choice Award.'
As Dael explains, “It’s not about the number of wraps sold; it’s about the quality of the food served.” This commitment is reflected as they consistently score 5-star ratings across the board.
Their mantra is “Made and served with love,” and I can truly taste that every time I grab a wrap and a great coffee there.
Although I’m a local, I’m not always nearby at lunchtime. But when I am, it’s such a treat! It always makes me smile when Dael shouts my order through—“no pickles!”— and Shad, a bit hard of hearing, calls back, “extra pickles?” This bounces back and forth a few times, Shad grinning as I receive my well-loaded falafel and halloumi wrap, pickle-free. They know my order now.
Dael and Shad are two of the most welcoming, generous people around. They serve the community not just through their food, but by regularly supplying free meals to local charities like Second Step, Greenhouse, and BDP, as well as offering discounts to charity workers and catering for various outside events.
Both were keen to express their thanks for the loyal support they've received from customers over the years.
Written by Bob Lawson
They especially love watching all the “falafel babies," as they affectionately call the little ones enjoying their chickpea balls, growing up and embracing the delight of perfectly prepared vegan and vegetarian Mediterranean and Middle Eastern food.
Although they’ve been featured in this great magazine before, it’s always worth catching up with one of Ashley Vale’s most beloved eating spots.
Jerusalem Falafel has recently undergone a refit, including a new juice bar, and they’re planning to open in the evenings, serving their usual fare—mezze, wraps, and superb baba ganoush.
Check out their Facebook page for opening details and to apply for an amazing offer they’re about to announce: a wrap for just 99p!
Just mention that you read about it HERE! Go and enjoy!
Evenings and Weekends by Oisin McKenna
Book review
by:
Ian Jones
Evenings and weekends, how do you spend them? Chances are, if you’re nose to the grindstone weekdays 9-5, it’s the in-between times that really count. Around half way through the novel, there’s a flashback scene, featuring Rosaleen’s big new TV. The old one works just fine but “watching TV on evenings and weekends was the most relaxing time in her stressful life”; she needs to make the experience as enjoyable as possible. Her son Phil, meanwhile, is plotting a more literal escape, via the first train to London, where he’ll live his best gay life and generally cram in as much as possible, which is also a neat reflection of Oisin Mckenna’s debut.
Released in paperback just in time for the summer, “Evenings and Weekends” is a scorching, kaleidoscopic read. Variously described as “a love letter to cities and people and heartbreaks” and “a bit like the book version of a Richard Curtis film but with more grit and more sex”, it grips you from the opening line- “A whale gets stuck in the Thames”- and doesn’t let up till the end. We’re introduced to the key characters in rapid succession- Ed, a courier, sweating his way around Canary Wharf; his girlfriend Maggie, 30, pregnant and broke, reluctantly contemplating a return to the suburbs; her best friend Phil, loathing his office job whilst yearning for coupled-up housemate Keith. Current and past lives are all messily intertwined but, once you get the hang of it, you’re away.
There’s an older generation too, and Phil’s mum Rosaleen is a powerful presence. Her doomed attempts to bond with her son during an awkward visit to the capital and her karaoke debut are standout scenes, alongside a poignant backstory featuring Pauline, her best friend, muse, and possibly more, from her Dublin childhood.
Then there’s London itself- a teeming metropolis of half-naked boozers, stoners and cruisers, hen parties, football fans and lots more besides. A city where anything’s possible but also slightly unattainable; where drag queens fantasize about normal jobs and Phil can be both a “vivacious young queer” and a “lonely old gay” in the blink of an eye.
This is a story of love and friendships, connections and deceptions, things said and things left unsaid. And ultimately, as events come to a head over an intense midsummer weekend, it’s a story of finding your authentic voice, ‘Vocalising’ in the truest sense. Enjoy!
What’s on...
RWC2025 Crochet Cafe at St George's Bristol
Running an event? Let us know and we'll help promote it!
Until 11 Sep
Join with friends, family, or your local rugby team to create a crotchet Red Rose to help support our England Red Roses team in the upcoming competition.
ntroduction to Permaculture at Grow Wilder
Find out how it can help you and the planet on this accessible, friendly weekend course.
PS. With Love: Park Street
Until 21 Sept
Until 31 Aug
This summer, one of Bristol’s most iconic neighbourhoods bursts into life with colour, creativity and community celebration.
Children's Holiday Club at Adventure Bristol
Kids can spend the day with Adventure Bristol this summer
Until 28 Aug
Bristol Pride x Martin Parr at Bristol Museum and Art Gallery Until 23 Nov
Legendary photographer Martin Parr teams up with Bristol Pride and Bristol Museums to showcase a retrospective of his photos of the city’s annual Pride festival.
Gender Stories at Bristol Museum & Art Gallery Until 12 October
Step into a thought-provoking journey with Gender Stories, an exhibition that sensitively begins to examine the fluid, multifaceted world of gender across cultures, eras, and personal experiences.
Dubtendo Day Festival at The Prospect Building 2 Aug
Dubtendo lands in the courtyard on Saturday 2 August for their biggest and best show to date
Bristol Sober Spaces Day Rave at Trinity Centre 3 Aug
Bristol Sober Spaces x Trinity presents a sober day rave
Balloon Fiesta Sunset Party at Clifton Observatory
Celebrate the Bristol Balloon Fiesta in style at the exclusive Sunset Party.
8-9 Aug
Tie-Dye Workshop - Revamp Your Clothes At Wiper and true 17 Aug
Come and learn how to tie-dye, explore different techniques and revamp your old clothes with colour! Make a heart T-shirt; revamp your socks, add a swirl to your pillowcases!
FORWARDS
FORWARDS returns to The Downs in August 2025!
22-23 Aug
Bristol Craft Brew Festival 2025 30 Aug
Join Bristol Craft Brew Festival 2025 for a top craft beer experience on 30 August at Document.
Let's Talk about Race at St Paul's Learning Centre 11 Sept
Join us on Thursady the 11th of Septermber at 6pm till 9pm for an interactive group conversation about race and community resilience. Free entry. For further information contact: hello@diverseartistnetwork.com
Ocean Film Festival World Tour at Redgrave Theatre
17 - 22 Sept
Climb aboard for a night of ocean adventure! The Ocean Film Festival World Tour features a new collection of the world's most incredible ocean films!
Encounters Film Festival 24 - 28 Sept
In 2025 Encounters celebrates 30 years of championing fresh and exciting new voices in filmmaking. Expect bold, boundary-pushing cinematic visions, essential insights from industry insiders and exciting headline guests, all located on Bristol's beautiful and historic harbourside.
PUZZLES
How many palm trees do you see in this edition?
Colour the truck with the correct colours!
SUDOKU
Difficulty level: EASY
Difficulty level: MEDIUM
Difficulty level: HARD
Your Councillors say...
As your Green Party councillors for Ashley Ward, we wanted to share this update on what we’ve been doing together to address local concerns and make sure St Paul’s stays firmly on the city’s agenda.
This is a community built on strength, solidarity, and survival. But I’m not going to pretend it’s easy right now. Residents and local traders are telling me the same stories again and again—rubbish piling up, street crime and tagging on the rise, and a lack of visible response from those meant to serve us.
Crime, Graffiti and Protecting
Our Shops Crime and anti-social behaviour are real concerns— especially around local shops effecting young families, and elders. Traders along Ashley Road and Grosvenor Road are regularly complaining about tagging, and petty theft, Some have told me they’re considering shutting up shop altogether.
That’s unacceptable. Small businesses are the backbone of our community—and they shouldn’t be left to face this alone.
We’ve been in contact with the neighbourhood policing team, council enforcement officers, and city centre business support to demand more visible patrols, targeted action on drug-related hotspots, and urgent clean-up of graffiti. We’ve also asked for improvements to the reporting system, so victims aren’t left feeling ignored.
We are also working with police, council officers and Carla Denyer MP to set up a Town hall meeting in September to discuss Crime and Anti Social Behaviour in the area. Provisional date is the evening of 4th September
If your shop, home or street is affected, report it: - 101 (non-emergency police) - www.avonandsomerset. police.uk/report - graffiti@bristol.gov.uk for tagging and vandalism - Or email me directly and I’ll raise it for you
Social Housing, Landlords & Communal Spaces
Many tenants in St Paul’s— especially those in council or housing association properties— are paying service charges for caretaking, cleaning, or CCTV that either doesn’t happen or doesn’t work. Larger landlords are not meeting the standard expected when it comes to helping their tenants. We’ve had enough.
We are working with residents to challenge unfair service charges, demand urgent repairs, and ensure that communal green spaces are safe, clean and genuinely accessible—not fenced off or left to decay. These areas belong to the people who live there—not the companies who collect the rent.
Helping You Navigate the System
A lot of people don’t know where to go when something’s wrong. Whether it’s fly-tipping, housing repairs, a neighbour dispute, or an incident outside your
shop—don’t give up.
We will help you get it to the right place, escalate if needed, and make sure it’s followed up.
You don’t need to go it alone. This is what being a councillor means to us—standing up for those who’ve been overlooked or let down.
We also chase things that take too long. For example we have chased up developers who are putting in the pelican crossing on Sevier Street as part of their planning commitments. This should be done soon, they are just working a date out.
Cost of Living – From Words to Action
The cost-of-living crisis isn’t over. People in our community are still struggling to heat their homes, feed their children, and keep their heads above water. Iwe’ve pushed the council for better support schemes, and I’ve supported frontline projects.
accountable for repairs, safety, and transparency
Our Promise to You
We are not here to tick boxes or make excuses—we are here to fight for real change. We walk these streets, we speak to those who are unheard, and we work every day to hold those in power accountable.
● cllr.abdul.malik@bristol.gov.uk
● Surgery times available at Green Melon Community Shop: currently 2-5pm every Saturday
●07386698626
Cllr.tim.wye@bristol.gov.uk
07584182830
Cllr.izzy.rusell@bristol.gov.uk
This isn’t charity—it’s community justice.
What we are Working On Next
- Cleaner Streets: An audit of missed collections and action on fly-tipping
- Crime & Anti-Social Behaviour: Better reporting tools, stronger police presence, business support
-A local survey to understand the priorities on our streets and in our communities
- Youth Safety: Funding for free, safe activities for young people
- Tenant Rights: Holding landlords
Super Saturday
2025 Planned Dates
Join us on the first Saturday of the month between 10:00am - 11:30am for all sorts of FREE family activities at our Super Saturday monthly events! Look out for our individual event posters for more information!
Saturday 2nd August
Saturday 6th September
Saturday 4th October
Saturday 1st November
Saturday 6th December
Scan QR Code to see all our upcoming FREE events!
https://www.childrensscrapstore.co.uk/free-events
