CAMPAIGNERS have lost their battle to prevent up to 140 homes being built at The Batch in Hanham.
Estate gets go-ahead as developer wins appeal Monkey business!
A Government inspector has allowed an appeal by the developers Ashfield Land and Redrow Homes for the 20-acre site south of Hencliffe Way and east of Castle Farm Road.
The inspector, Matthew Nunn, said that since South Gloucestershire Council planners had refused permission in August last year because the site was in the Green Belt, the Government had introduced the concept of the Grey Belt, where housing development could take place.
He said the site would provide much-needed housing, with half of the proposed homes classed as affordable.
“I find the substantial benefits of the scheme, comprising the provision of market and affordable housing, the various economic, environmental and social benefits, and the accessibility to shops and services, all taken together, clearly outweigh any harms arising,” he concluded.
More than 1,500 objections to the plan, which includes the demolition of a house in Hencliffe Way to create access, were received by the council and opponents, including the Hanham District Green Belt Conservation Society, took part in the planning inquiry in May.
Residents at Avon Valley Care Home in Kingswood were visited by monkeys and penguins. They had trhew chance to interact with the animals up close, including holding, feeding, and stroking them. This resident even dressed for the occasion!
Outcry over plan for supermarket
Residents are not happy about plans for a Sainsbury's Local on a site at the Chief Trading Post estate that had been earmarked for a GP surgery.
PAGE 2
'Think again' call on parking fees
Traders in Hanham and Kingswood are asking South Gloucestershire Council to think again about parking fees, following a drop in business.
PAGE 7
Centre's vital role in community
Writer Jane Duffus has been delving into the fascinating history of Hanham Community Centre, opened after World War Two and serving the community ever since.
PAGE 18
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Sainsbury’s could replace hoped-for health centre
THE new housing estate at the Chief Trading Post in Oldland Common could have a supermarket on the part of the site that had been intended for a GP surgery.
The developer, Oldland Common LLP, says the plan was for the local doctors’ practice to relocate to the site but funding for a new building was not available.
Alternative potential uses including a dentist, a veterinary surgery or a nursery were explored but after two years of marketing there was still no interest, so the developer has drawn up plans for a Sainsbury’s Local on the site off the A4175 at Barry Road.
In its application to South Gloucestershire Council for “a simple, modest supermarket”, it says: “Given the site’s main road frontage and proximity to public transport, it is considered a good location for a new convenience store to serve the existing local and growing community.”
The store would have a 17-space car park and six cycle spaces. New trees would be
planted on the boundaries.
A number of residents have posted objections on the council’s planning website, focusing on the likely increase in traffic and the creation of a dangerous exit and access on a busy road at the top of a hill, as well as the negative impact on local businesses.
One objector said: “The development of the Trading Post area was on the clear basis of a medical facility, which is vitally required for this development and any more plans.
“There is no need for a retail facility in this location - one can walk to one in five mins.”
Another said: “This proposal offers no meaningful benefit to the community and instead poses serious and long lasting harm. It replaces a necessary healthcare facility with an unwanted retail outlet, will worsen traffic conditions, increase safety risk, and damage cherished local businesses.”
The plan can be found on the council planning website with the reference P25/01717/F
How the developer thinks the new store could look
n NEWS
GP surgeries ‘can’t cope with more residents’
GP practices serving Oldland Common will need to be expanded if plans to build up to 310 more homes are given the go-ahead.
That’s the view of local health chiefs in response to the application to South Gloucestershire Council from developer Waddeton Park for a 176.9 hectare site east of Barry Road and High Street.
The Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire Integrated Care Board says the developer would need to contribute £314,992 towards expansion and renovation at local surgeries.
It says the practices at Hanham Health’s Oldland Surgery and Close Farm Surgery are already overstretched for the existing population, while there seems little chance of a hoped-for new surgery at the Chief Trading Post development.
The ICB’s response to the plans will come as little surprise to local people, many of whom have expressed concerns that the existing infrastructure, particularly health services and transport, is not adequate for further housing development.
More than 500 people submitted objections to the planned development, which would involve moving the Green Belt boundary, before the council’s deadline for comments.
Part of the site off Barry Road where developers want to build
It is not yet known when the council’s planning committee will consider the outline scheme, which the developer says would provide “much needed housing and affordable housing and becomes a high-quality, sustainable community that positively enhances Oldland Common”.
The plans include a mix of housing types including 123 affordable homes, with road access from Barry Road and new walking and cycling routes, with all existing public rights of way retained. Two “mobility hubs” would support cyclists and e-bike and electric vehicle users.
The scheme envisages a commercial hub, which could include a convenience store or
workspace, that the developer says would complement High Street businesses.
One objector commented: “The village of Oldland cannot cope with the additional numbers of people, together with the extra number of vehicles on the roads.
“The additional numbers of vehicles on the roads is a huge risk to the safety of our children and elderly residents.
“The doctors surgery and dentist are currently at capacity; trying to get a doctor's appointment is near impossible.
“Also the current greenbelt fields are home to many different flora and fauna. This will kill off our local wildlife.
The site is included in the council’s draft Local Plan, which is being created to identify suitable places for development to meet the district’s housing needs up to 2041.
The Government has said that some parts of the Green Belt will have to be sacrificed as part of its drive to build many more homes across the country.
The council is expected to submit the Local Plan in the autumn for independent examination by a planning inspector.
The Waddeton Park plan can be found on the council planning website with the reference P25/01362/O
QUALITY KITCHEN MAKEOVERS
n
BLOOR Homes has formally submitted its planning application to South Gloucestershire Council for 950 homes in Warmley.
The developer says the proposals, for the land which it owns, include a significant expansion of Warmley Forest Park.
It says the development, which it calls North Warmley, would be phased over 14 years, with building likely to begin in 2029.
Road access to the new homes would be in three places: from London Road, Goose Green and Webbs Heath. There would be a central “mobility hub”, to include e-bike, e-scooter and cargo bike hire and electric vehicle charging. The 43 bus would be diverted to run through the estate and the developer could contribute to future bus services along the ring road.
The scheme envisages 30 per cent of the 950 properties being classed as “affordable” . A site would also be designated for a 75-bed care home, while the plans also include A “mixed-use hub” with small-scale shops,
Developer vows to expand forest park
workspace, a café and a nursery .
Before any building began, the developer says it would agree with the council about the financial contributions it would be expected to make towards local services.
Much of the land is currently in the Green Belt but has been designated by the council in its draft Local Plan as suitable for development if Green Belt boundaries are moved.
The authority is under pressure to find more sites that can be developed before 2041 because it does not currently have a five-year housing landbank.
The Government wants local authorities to build more homes to meet demand.
The developer said it did not expect its application to be decided by the council until its Local Plan had beden adopted,
which would probably be in late 2026.
Bloor says its final plans have been shaped by local views following a consultation earlier this year. It intends to open up 15 hectares of farmland to give people access to green space, including woodlands, wetlands and wildflower meadows .
Mike Kerton, planning director at Bloor Homes South West, said: “We’ve listened carefully to what matters most to people and top of that list was taking full advantage of turning currently private land into new public open space. Warmley Forest Park is already special, and this is our chance to make it even better. The park will be bigger and more accessible, with spaces for play, quiet walks, and wildlife to thrive.”
The plans include two new areas within the park:
n MESS AGE FR OM POLICE AND CRIME C OMMISSIONER
Strengthening neighbourhood policing
YOU’VE told me you want safer streets and more visible policing, and I’m doing it.
I’ve listened to your concerns about antisocial behaviour, retail crime, and criminality in town and city centres, and I am working with the Chief Constable to put more officers where they are needed, tackling crime in high streets and areas you care
about, because you should feel safe in your high street.
I have launched ‘Your Streets, My Priority’ this month – a coordinated programme of action to enhance neighbourhood policing and create safer, more vibrant town centres and high streets across the region.
There are several centres targeted across the Avon and Somerset area.
• Siston Brook Valley Wetlands – a natural corridor with wildflower meadows, timber play areas, wetlands and walking routes.
• Goose Green Meadows – a quieter space designed for nature, walking, views and wellbeing.
Paths will link up with the wider countryside and the Bristol and Bath Railway Path, with two new bridges over Siston Brook and safe, bat-friendly lighting.
“This is a plan for the long term, and there’s a lot still to shape,” added Mike Kerton.
“From the play areas and walking routes, to how we design the streets and homes, we’ll keep working with local residents and local groups to get the details right as we move forward.”
Find out more at www. northwarmley.co.uk, or contact the project team on 0800 130 3270 or northwarmley@jbp. co.uk.
The application was submitted to the council as the Voice went to print, so should be uploaded to South Gloucestershire Council’s planning portal this month.
The focus is on making our town and city centres safer, more vibrant spaces where residents, businesses, and visitors feel secure and welcomed.
Supported by the Neighbourhood Policing Guarantee, which has added more officers to your local teams, and the additional dedicated patrols in targeted areas, the plans will be delivering more proactive, visible and engaging policing in your cities and towns.
From increased foot patrols to street surgeries and crime prevention advice for businesses, the local plans include ways for the police to work closer with businesses to share information, respond to incidents and target prolific offenders, as well as proactive use of powers to address antisocial behaviour.
We will see additional partnership work with licensing colleagues, to address issues relating to licensed premises, as well as diversionary activities for young people, like the outreach and engagement programmes provided by the South Gloucestershire Violence Reduction Partnership (VRP).
My team will also be working with partners to raise awareness of opportunities for young people.
Throughout the summer, I will be visiting different areas throughout South Gloucestershire and Bristol to meet residents, businesses, community groups, and the local neighbourhood police team to see how things are progressing.
I will be monitoring progress to make sure the campaign delivers results for you.
To keep up to date with what’s happening as part of the Your Streets, My Priority campaign, visit my website at www.avonandsomerset-pcc.gov.uk and my social media pages.
PCC Clare Moody with a police officer on patrol
40m cable bridge over Avon gets go-ahead
PLANS for a bridge over the River Avon linking Keynsham and Hanham have been approved.
The bridge will allow pedestrians, cyclists, wheelchair users and horse riders to cross the river, which forms the border between Bath & North East Somerset and South Gloucestershire.
It is a shared project between the two district councils, which have both granted planning permission for it to go ahead.
The bridge, crossing the river near Durley Lane, will be 40 metres long and up to 4.3 metres wide, with a rubber-tiled surface suited for horses.
It has been designed by Buro Happold, the lead consultant, and Moxon Architects.
Contributions to the project’s funding have been made by the West of England Combined Authority as well as Taylor Wimpey, as part of its development of the Somerdale estate.
B&NES Council told the Voice that a potential timescale for construction of the bridge is still to be confirmed.
It said: “Funding to deliver the scheme has not yet been secured. However, by having a detailed design and planning consent, Bath & North East Somerset Council is able to progress funding bids and grant applications.
How the bridge will look
“The proposed bridge has been designed to offer an improved active travel and recreational route between Keynsham and Hanham.”
B&NES Council received 41 comments backing the scheme. There were four objections, with concerns about the lack of access at certain times due to the river flooding, the need to improve paths through Somerdale, including for horses, and pressure on parking in Dryleaze Road.
One resident who commented to South Gloucestershire Council said: “Having lived in Hanham for many years and walking the dog through Hencliff woods and along the river path, I always would have loved a bridge over to Keynsham.
“Now I live in Keynsham it would be
fantastic to be able to walk across through to the other side. Would be great for business both sides and you would be able to safely ride all the way from Keynsham to Bristol.”
Another said: “I’ve been looking at maps for years trying to figure out if there was a better way to commute on foot or bicycle to Bristol and Hanham from Keynsham. But the same problem always gets in the way - the River Avon! There are so few bridges. So the proposed bridge would be brilliant. Please make it happen!”
B&NES Council’s flooding and drainage team raised no objection to the plans.
The Environment Agency did not object to the principle of development. It did initially request greater clarity about the flood risk posed by the new bridge, but additional modelling showed that the risk would not be significantly increased.
The Canal & River Trust also raised no objection but said its code of practice should be followed to ensure the bridge did not impede navigation during its installation.
South Gloucestershire Council said in its submission to B&NES that the main issue in planning terms was the potential impact on the green belt. But it concluded there was “clear and convincing rationale” for the bridge to be built.
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SCHOOL-BASED NURSERY QUALIFIED TEACHER LED
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BASED AT SAMUEL WHITE’S INFANT SCHOOL PART OF HANHAM PRIMARY FEDERATION For information and to book a visit, please contact the school: 01454 8665766 nursery@hanhamprimaryfederation.org
n NEWS
Traders call for rethink on parking fees
TRADERS in Hanham and Kingswood are urging South Gloucestershire Council to think again about parking charges.
They say that business has declined since the fees were introduced in May.
Bernard Jackson, chair of Hanham Business Partnership, said High Street traders had argued - to no avail - that Hanham car park in Laburnum Road should remain free because there was nowhere else where short-stay shoppers could park.
He said the car park was now under-used and the fear was that shoppers were going to places nearby with free parking, such as Longwell Green and Emersons Green.
In Kingswood, traders want the council to consider allowing shoppers to park without charge for two hours at Kings Chase and other council-run car parks.
An online petition on change. org attracted more than 200 signatures in two days.
It reads: “As local business owners in Kingswood, Bristol,
we are suffering tremendously from the recent introduction of parking charges at Kings Chase Shopping Centre. Our customers, who used to visit frequently, now find it inconvenient and costly, deterring them from shopping or spending time in the area. This has led to a noticeable decline in customer footfall, directly impacting our livelihoods and the vibrancy of our local community.
“It's not just our businesses that are affected. Residents and visitors who wish to enjoy a hassle-free shopping experience are being burdened with
n NEWS FROM THE METRO MAYOR
Investing
additional costs. The parking charges are not a nominal fee; they are a significant deterrent, forcing our customers to shop elsewhere. This is ultimately harming the local economy and small businesses that rely heavily on community support.
“We understand the need for effective urban planning and traffic management strategies. However, these charges seem counterproductive, driving people away rather than encouraging economic activity in Kingswood, Bristol. There are more efficient and less harmful ways to manage parking and traffic.
“We propose an alternative approach that includes free parking for the first two hours. This will give shoppers ample time to browse, shop, and dine without the pressure of a ticking meter. Moreover, it would boost the attractiveness of Kings Chase Shopping Centre."
The council brought in charges at more than 20 shortstay and long-stay car parks
in our cultural scene
THIS is my first column for the Voice not to focus on transport, but I will start with a reminder for readers - by the time that you’re reading this, kids go free on our buses.
In South Gloucestershire, Bristol, Bath & North East Somerset, and North Somerset, if you’re under 16 then just hop on board from now until September 5, with no bus pass or registration required! That’s a great way for families and young people to save money and have fun.
On the travelwest.info website, you’ll be able to find details of just some of the brilliant free ways for kids to enjoy the summer.
One thing they can do is visit the Gromit Unleashed 3 trail. This celebration of creativity is not to be missed, and I’m sure you’ve already seen some of the new dozens of unique Wallaces, Gromits, Feathers McGraws and Norbots while out and about.
It’s all in aid of The Grand Appeal, who have raised £90 million for Bristol Children’s Hospital since 1995.
I was lucky enough to see the sculptures at a preview at Aardman, and to meet the team behind the trail. We’re in for a real treat this summer – and a lot of grand days out!
Recently the government has confirmed
that the West of England will be one of six areas in the country to share a new £150 million fund for creative places. This recognition for our cultural sector is a real vote of confidence, and will help support businesses across our region to grow – creating more jobs and opportunities for local people.
The creative industries are already a big part of the West’s economy. People visit from all over the world, whether it’s for our street art or a city so historic that UNESCO listed it twice.
Culture here knows few limits – or equals. It’s part of who we are and now, through the new Industrial Strategy, we can invest more in the future to bring through the next generation of talented creatives and drive economic growth.
From festivals to theatre, sport to heritage, clubs to cinema, everyone in the West deserves to make the most of the best of life here. As I’ve said to sustainable businesses and investors since taking office, the West of England isn’t just the best place to spend money, it’s the best place to spend time.
It’s time for all communities, wherever and whoever they are, to be connected to that –including the economic opportunities offered by a world-renowned cultural scene.
across the district. Some have a few free 30-minute parking slots; otherwise fees range from 70p for an hour to £20 for a weekly season ticket.
The council said the charges were needed to meet an £800,000 budgetary pressures.
Kings Chase is not the only shopping centre to have seen a fall in use, with empty spaces being reported across the area.
In Staple Hill, George Georgiou, chair of the Chamber of Trade, said the charges had led to a 30 per cent drop in trade. His suggestion is to replace the current charges with a £1 flat rate.
A council spokesperson said time was needed to assess car park use before any decisions were made about future changes.
"Typically, a settling-in period of three to six months is required before we begin analysing stable data. This approach allows us to measure the ‘new normal’ and make informed decisions based on observed behaviour rather than immediate reactions."
That’s why I was glad to help launch a new citizens’ assembly on cultural policy in our region with Citizens for Culture. Invitations were sent to 15,000 randomly selected households in the West, with 52 people to be chosen to answer the question: “What would culture and creativity look like in the West of England if they were for everyone?”
Working with partners and councils, their discussions will help shape a new Cultural Plan to be unveiled towards the end of the year. I can’t wait to see their ideas and energy –and the difference that we’ll make together in this new chapter for the West of England.
Metro Mayor Helen Godwin writes for the Voice
Laburnum Road car park
A YOUNG dancer from Willsbridge has been picked to work alongside professionals in a full-length production of classical ballet Coppélia.
Evie Jukes, aged 10, will join a cast of 75 performers in the English Youth Ballet show at the Playhouse Theatre in Weston-Super-Mare.
Cherry Garden Primary School pupil Evie and Rae Fry, also 10, of Staple Hill, both train at First Steps & Carly Elizabeth School of Dance, which holds sessions at Stanbridge Primary School, Frenchay Village Hall and Hawkesbury Upton Village Hall.
They were chosen after a competitive auditions process to join the cast, working with English Youth Ballet principal Ann Wall and other professionals in rehearsals ahead of performances on August 15 and 16.
Evie said: "I started to dance when I was two years old, as I loved twirling around the living room. I feel happy and passionate when I’m dancing and I love challenging myself to
Dancers ready for big stage
improve.
"The best thing about being a dancer is being able to express
yourself on stage. I’m hoping to improve my ballet technique and to learn from the older dancers
at EYB. I’m also looking forward to making new dance friends."
Rae said: "I started dancing when I was three because I really wanted to be a ballerina. I love wearing all the pretty costumes and dancing on stage—it makes me really happy! At EYB, I’m excited to learn fun new dances and make lots of new friends.”
Former ENB and Ballet Cymru dancer Ann, who plays Swanhilda in the production, said: "Teaching the young dancers is incredibly rewarding, as I get to see them learn new steps and grow in confidence.
"It is magical to see how they progress and blossom on stage and it brings me great joy to dance alongside them.
"In a sense, it feels like we all inspire each other. When I watch the children and young people dancing, it reminds me of why I dance, to bring joy, to feel joy and to connect through dance."
Tickets for the production are available by calling 01743 281281 or at tinyurl.com/35pw3m7r.
Evie Jukes (left) with fellow dancer Rae Fry. Picture: Ben Garner
Little Shop of Horrors
Little Shop of Horrors is a delectable sci-fi horror musical with an electrifying 1960s pop/ rock score.
Seymour Krelborn is a meek and dejected assistant at a floral shop who happens upon a strange plant, which he affectionately names “Audrey II” after his crush at the shop.
Little does he know that this strange and unusual plant will develop a soulful R&B voice, a potty mouth, and an
unquenchable thirst for HUMAN BLOOD.
As Audrey II grows bigger and meaner, the carnivorous plant promises limitless fame and fortune to Seymour, as long as he continues providing a fresh supply of blood. Just when it’s too late, Seymour discovers Audrey Ii’s extra-terrestrial origins and his true drive for world-domination.
An hilarious musical event not to be missed, for all ages.
Kitchen fitter jailed
AN interior installations company director has been jailed for 18 months after South Gloucestershire Council’s Trading Standards team prosecuted him for multiple thefts from customers.
James Brown, 55, of All Saints Close, Longwell Green, appeared at Bristol Crown Court on June 20 where he was handed the 18-month sentence. He had pleaded guilty to the 19 charges of theft at an earlier hearing, which relate to business done under his company names of JR Brown Interior Installations Ltd and Brown & Son Interiors Ltd.
The thefts amount to over £101,000 taken from 19 customers of Brown’s companies during 2018 and 2019 and again during 2023.
South Gloucestershire Trading Standards brought the prosecution after officers received a number of similar complaints covering six months in 2023 alleging that customers had paid money to Brown & Son Interiors Ltd, a business that predominantly supplied and fitted kitchens and bathrooms but had received little or nothing in return.
During September 2023 Brown’s customers were told he had suffered a mental breakdown and that all jobs would be delayed, but this was closely followed by an announcement that Brown & Son Interiors Ltd had ceased trading and had entered into liquidation. At this point 15 customers of the company were left out of pocket, with some already having had their old kitchens ripped out by Brown and no prospect of the new kitchen they had paid him for being supplied.
Examination of Brown’s bank accounts revealed that during the six months in 2023 when customers had paid him approximately £85,000 nearly £40,000 had been taken from those accounts as ‘drawings’ for Brown’s personal use.
Trading Standards then started to look at the previous company and discovered a very familiar pattern of complaints.
Action under the Proceeds of Crime Act is ongoing which has involved securing a restraint order over Brown’s £450,000 home.
Particpants in the Tour de Kingswood included former president Roger Windsor, 81, left
Carlos’s defibrillator campaign keeps driver’s memory alive
A BUS driver from Cadbury Heath has achieved his aim of installing lifesaving equipment in the city centre in memory of a colleague.
Carlos Santos attended the unveiling of the defibrillator outside Turtle Bay on Broad Quay – then learned that it was put into use within 12 hours.
As reported in the Voice in March, Carlos raised the money for the defibrillator as a tribute to his friend Richard Dewdney, who died after suffering a cardiac arrest at the location.
Carlos, whose wife and 23-year-old son are also First Bus drivers in Bristol, also set up BristolResus4All – a not-forprofit organisation established to fundraise for more defibrillators in the city and
ensure the current network of devices are properly maintained and available to the public.
His aim is to ensure that no matter where you are in Bristol, you are no more than three minutes return walk away from a publicly accessible defibrillator.
He urges people to contact BristolResus4All if any devices are ‘out of service’ or if they wish to install a defibrillator.
Richard’s son, also called Richard, paid tribute to his dad and thanked Carlos and First Bus.
He said: “My Dad was the type of person that once you met him you would never forget him, he loved his family with all of his heart and soul.
“I’m sure he would have been
very pleased that the fundraising by Carlos has been a success, and if it prevents another family feeling the heartache that my family has felt, then, although bittersweet, Carlos’s efforts are very much appreciated.”
More information about
BristolResus4All, which works with other organisations including Great Western Air Ambulance, Avon and Somerset Police and Defibs4Bristol, can be found on its Facebook page, and donations can be made on its JustGiving page.
Carlos Santos with Richard Dewdney at the site of the defibrillator installed in memory of bus driver Richard Dewdney senior
Men in Sheds share vital health message
GP surgeries in South Gloucestershire have launched a campaign encouraging men to take 30 seconds to check their risk of prostate cancer.
Prostate cancer is the most common cancer in men. The risk is higher for men over 50, if they are Black, or if they have a family history of the disease. But earlier detection makes treatment easier, and that is why the local surgeries are working together to promote the easy checker.
The campaign is being promoted by surgeries including Kingswood Health Centre, Cadbury Heath Healthcare, Close Farm Surgery, Hanham Health, Green Valleys Health, Three Shires Medical Practice, Orchard Medical Centre and Downend Health Group.
To reach more men where they often get together, the practices are delivering drinks coasters to businesses in the area including sports and social clubs, barbers, tattoo parlours and
building suppliers. The coasters feature a QR code which links to a risk checker that asks three quick questions.
Sarah Cole, manager of the local primary care network, said: “One in eight men get prostate cancer. We hope our campaign and the coasters we’re sharing locally will encourage men to check their risk and talk to their
mates about the disease. Look out for the coasters and follow the link to the easy checker. It takes less time to do than boiling the kettle.”
Warmley Men in Sheds and Kingswood Rugby Football Club are lending their support to the campaign by appearing on the promotional posters.
Alan, a member of Warmley
Men in Sheds, said: “My prostate cancer was discovered by chance, but luckily it was discovered early which meant it had not grown. The sooner prostate cancer is discovered, the sooner it can be treated - my cancer has now completely gone. Please don’t leave it to chance to find out you have cancer – get it checked NOW!”.
The main symptoms of prostate cancer are
• needing to pass urine more frequently, often several times during the night
• difficulty in starting to pass urine (hesitancy)
• a poor urinary stream and/or dribbling afterwards
• blood in your urine or semen
The campaign will run over the summer. If you are a local business and want to support the campaign, contact sarah.cole35@ nhs.net. Anyone interested in checking their own risk should go to https://prostatecanceruk.org/ gp-risk-u16600
CADBURY HEATH PRIMARY SCHOOL SMALL SCHOOL • BIG HEART • BOLD DREAMS
Navy chiefs surprise Harry, 100
Harry Francis talks with Jonny Morrish and Chris Kedward at his party
HARRY Francis had a 100th birthday surprise when the Royal Marines delivered a personal message from the First Sea Lord at his party.
Harry, who lives in Soundwell, was joined by around 40 relatives and friends at the party at Pucklechurch Village Sports & Social Club, the day
before his birthday on July 21.
Lieutenant Colonel Chris Kedward, the commanding officer of the Royal Marines Reserve Bristol, and Warrant Officer Class 2 Jonny Morrish delivered the message from General Sir Gwyn Jenkins, congratulating him on the milestone.
Sir Gwyn said: "Having the qualities needed to serve in Special Forces is a remarkable achievement, but the many covert operations and missions you then conducted behind enemy lines during WWII were truly courageous.
"I hope you can recognise the huge impact you had on the course of the war and the numerous conflicts. You remain an inspiration to us all."
Lt Col Kedward said it was particularly fitting that the message came from the first Royal Marines officer to be made First Sea Lord, the head of the Royal Navy.
Harry was moved to tears by the message, and talked with the Royal Marines afterwards.
Born in Barford St Martin, near Salisbury in Wiltshire, one of four children,Harry's earliest memory, according to his daughter Teresa, is when he was five or six, holding a girl's hand walking home from school each day and not wanting to let go.
Harry volunteered for the Royal Navy in 1942, aged 16, after lying about his age, before transferring to the Royal Marines and joining the SBS, fighting behind enemy lines in Italy, Lebanon and Burma.
After the war he returned to Wiltshire and worked as a labourer then a painter and decorator, bringing up nine children in his first family, with 29 grandchildren and "many more" great-grandchildren.
Teresa said Harry, known as H, has also been a father to his second family with wife Gwen, who he met in 1985 and has seven children, 10 grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.
Harry has lived in Bristol for the past 40 years.
Teresa says his secret to a long life is "to be a good boy, have lots of patience, which usually means giving in a lot, and having the odd tot of rum".
VJ Day – a veteran remembers
As the nation prepares to mark the 80th anniversary of VJ Day, the Voice met a veteran of the campaign in Burma, where fighting continued after the guns fell silent in Europe
EARLIER this year communities around the country held events to commemorate 80 years since VE Day.
The date - May 8 1945 - is seared into the national memory as the day when a nation marked the final victory over Germany's Nazi regime.
But the Second World War didn't end then. Furious fighting continued for more than three months in Burma, China and across the Far East and Pacific until the dropping of atomic bombs on Hiroshima and Nagasaki forced the retreating Japanese empire to surrender.
Celebrated joyously then - but perhaps less well remembered now - August 15 was declared Victory over Japan or VJ Day, marking the final end of the Second World War.
Harry Francis fought in Burma - and does not have fond memories. Not only was fighting in the jungle "hell", the last of his many encounters with Japanese forces left him close to death, after being stabbed in the stomach with a bayonet.
Harry, who has just turned 100, now lives in Soundwell with his wife Gwen.
Before the war he lived in the village of Barford St Martin, near Salisbury. Frustrated at seeing colleagues at the bus depot where he worked being given deferments when they received call-up papers, Harry lied about his age to volunteer in 1942, joining the Royal Navy when he was still 16.
After training at HMS Raleigh in Torpoint, Cornwall, he joined the crew of destroyer HMS Brecon, based in Liverpool.
HMS Brecon hunted U-boats and escorted convoys in the Atlantic, before being deployed to Malta in the Mediterranean. At this point Harry volunteered for the Royal Marines, going through a training programme at the Achnacarry Commando Training Depot in the Scottish Highlands, which he says had "some big tough men crying their eyes out".
One of the first recruits in 1943 to what would become known as the Special Boat
Service (SBS), Harry fought in Sicily and Italy during the Allied invasion and took part in raids on Lebanon, which was run by the Vichy France government.
During the visit Tito - later to become Yugoslavia's president - presented Harry with a medal, from a bunch that he kept in his pocket to present to soldiers.
Harry no longer has the medal but it is believed to have been the Yugoslavian equivalent of the Military Medal.
Soon afterwards Harry and his comrades in No. 2 SBS were given new orders to go to the Far East.They sailed to Ceylon - now Sri Lanka - and from there were sent to the Andaman Islands, between India and Burma, for their first experience of fighting the Japanese.
Harry's unit then went to Burma, operating as part of South-East Asia Command's Small Operations Group, and he admits being "frightened to death". Fighting in the jungle, often at close quarters, and shooting snipers down from the trees, Harry says the enemy soldiers were "crafty" and refused to surrender.
He said: "It was either you or them. We had a bloody hard time out there. It was bad enough fighting the enemy but when you've got to fight the jungle as well, it's hell - it was a bloody horrible place."
Harry and his comrades would swim up on paddle boards to carry out reconnaissance on Japanese units. Operating around the Irrawaddy river, they carried out lightning raids, going in and "getting out quick".
Harry said: "I was a mad sod, who went in all guns blazing. We'd do whatever we had to and get out."
Harry completed six missions, often returning and having a day to "get cleaned up and be off out again".
On his seventh reconnaissance mission Harry's group was ambushed. Two of his comrades were "shot to pieces" and, as Harry ran to help, he had "the biggest bayonet I’d ever seen" thrust into his stomach.
His best friend Slim Fenton killed the Japanese soldier who stabbed him. After their attackers were wiped out he was carried back to an outpost, "bleeding like a stuck pig".
He lost consciousness and say the next thing he remembers is "waking up in a nice bed with white sheets" in Ceylon.
Transferred to the UK, Harry was treated at Haslar hospital in Gosport for peritonitis, a potentially-fatal infection caused by the wound, then sent to recuperate at Netley camp in Hampshire.
He was in the UK on VJ Day, when the war finally ended on August 15, 1945.
Once he was back on his feet Harry was put on light duties, helping to train others until he was demobbed.
He worked as a labourer then took up painting and decorating, a trade he stayed in until he retired, and moved to Bristol around 40 years ago.
He stayed in touch with some of his comrades, but most have now passed away.
Even at the end of the war, Harry says "no-one wanted to know" about the conflict in the Far East, and far fewer do now.
He said: "They don't know what we went through. They say 'we will remember them' but no-one ever bloody does! People should remember. But don't say that I'm a hero, because I'm notI'm just one of the boys."
Harry took part in a parade through Staple Hill on Armed Forces Day in June, wheeled by his son Andy
Harry Francis today
Harry in his Royal Navy uniform after volunteering in 1942. No pictures survive from his SBS days
A penguin pick-me-up!
RESIDENTS at Avon Valley Care Home in Kingswood were treated to an unforgettable experience as penguins and monkeys paid a visit.
The event, designed to enrich the lives of residents, proved a huge hit.
Grace Orchard, aged 102, said, “I cannot believe at my age I am still having such marvellous experiences. I held a penguin and a monkey.”
Meanwhile, at Kingswood Court Care Home, Joyce Jones, pictured with manager Mathan Balasubramaniyan celebrated her 108th birthday with a party hosted by singer Frankie Johns.
After 314 years, this stunning grade two listed country pub finds itself centre stage in a dynamic period of rebirth.
Whether you're with us for a relaxed lunch, a jovial meal catching up with friends and family, an extra special Sunday roast, or a group celebration. Our warm and inviting atmosphere will welcome you like a big hug.
n ADVERTORIAL
n COMMUNITY NEWS
MOTHS: This time of year there is so much to see at Willsbridge Mill. It is a particularly good year for moths and volunteers at the Mill have noted some very distinctive
Digging in
Bristol-based The Window Hub progresses on green goals
Bristol-based home improvement
Boyd Valley Lake, which is located
all old frames so they don’t end up
The window installation company
professional Danny, who wanted to create a business that was “built on quality rather than greed”.
species of moth. Where possible we try to take photographs of the different species of moth and we often showcase these in the Mill Cafe. Of particular note this year is the Eyed Hawkmoth.
From humble beginnings, The Window Hub now operates from a head office and showroom in Staple Hill in Bristol with offices, showrooms and installation depots across the South West.
BATS: We also log carefully all the different species of bat at
the site. Last year, thanks to a Heritage Lottery Fund grant we were able to adapt an old barn to make it suitable for Horseshoe bats to bring up their young. In addition to the Lesser and Greater Horseshoe bats, this year we have logged nine different species of bat, including Common Pipistrelle, Daubentons, Serotine, Soprano Pip, Nathusius Pip, Nocturne and Leislers bats. Bats are shy creatures and tend to come out only at dusk, so they are not so easy to photograph. However, we have
In fact, a new showroom is scheduled to open this month.
Danny launched The Window Hub because he wanted to be much more than just a double glazing company.
“We know that choosing new windows and inviting someone
TEENAGERS from Cabot Learning Federation’s (CLF Post) 16 in Kingswood stepped out of the classroom for the annual Community Action Day.
More than 100 Year 12 students volunteered their time and energy to support a wide range of local organisations, including Willsbridge Mill.
you know what? It is so easy to be amazing if you don’t cut corners.”
The Community Action Day gives students the opportunity to develop teamwork and leadership skills while contributing to society by working at parks, food banks, community gardens, schools, church groups, and businesses.
And the Window Hub has the customer reviews to prove it –90% of reviews for The Window Hub on Trustpilot are for five stars, with customers celebrating the company’s professionalism, friendliness, tidiness, and attention to detail.
created a video of some of the creatures, large and small, that live at the mill and this is being shown in the Willsbridge Cafe on site.
into your home can be stressful, so we have introduced as many initiatives as possible to be fair and reasonable in our approach to give our customers the best experience possible,” he said.
“Sales begin and end with treating customers properly. And
The Willsbridge Mill site is a community site and run by volunteers who are passionate about the natural world. Over the last ten years, this community has enhanced and managed the wildlife on site by planting native trees and plants, creating ponds and wildlife gardens to encourage native wildlife and monitoring and recording species and their
The hard work of Danny and his company was also recently recognised and commended, with The Window Hub being named the ‘Best in the South West’ at the G24 Awards last year.
In 2025, The Window Hub will grow to cover domestic homes between Cheltenham in Gloucestershire and Lands End in Cornwall.
For more information, please visit TheWindowHub.co.uk.
progress. The area is now a haven for wildlife and always open to the public to appreciate and enjoy. We always welcome new volunteers who are interested in wildlife and nature. Anyone can apply. Just turn up at Willsbridge Mill on any Thursday at around 10 am and ask for Mike. We should also like to encourage new directors to our board. Volunteers interested in joining the board should send an introductory email to Grahamhoyle@Willsbridgemill.com
Pauline Lovell
n COMMUNITY NEWS
WHITFIELD TABERNACLE TRUST
AS part of Kingswood’s Fun in the Park’ event on July 13, the Whitfield Tabernacle Trust organised a table-top curling game where players were asked to slide miniature curling stones through the pictures of the large Tabernacle windows.
"We‘re proud of the windows that were installed in the first phase of our programme to save and develop the 1741 Grade I listed Tabernacle and we thought the game would generate some interest in what we hope to achieve" said trust secretary Kim Scudamore.
Ten-year-old Park School pupil Marshall Tanton emerged as the overall winner of the competition as his name was drawn from those who managed to get at least two of their four curling stones through the windows. Marshall was presented with his prize by trust chair Anthony Hick.
LOOKING FOR LEGAL ADVICE?
HANHAM WI
WE kicked off our May meeting with a lively and informative demonstration from Peter of Broadleaze Nurseries in Saltford. He expertly showed us how to plant not just one, but three hanging baskets of various sizes, along with two garden tubs. With plenty of humour, Peter shared practical tips on plant selection, colour combinations, spacing, fertilising, and watering. At the end of the demonstration, he generously donated the baskets and tubs for our raffle, much to our appreciation.
Members discussed and voted on the proposed national campaign for 2025/26: Bystanders Can Be Lifesavers. This initiative aims to increase public knowledge of CPR and defibrillator use across the UK. Members were struck by the British Heart Foundation’s statistics — over 30,000 cardiac arrests occur each year in the UK, with fewer than 10% surviving. Alarmingly, survival rates are even lower for women. The motion received unanimous support from our members. June proved to be an especially busy and enjoyable month. We began with an evening historical walk around Hanham, expertly led by Roger Windsor of the local history society.Later in the month, we visited the beautiful Doynton House Gardens We also welcomed back a favourite speaker, Susan Symons, who continued her engaging series on Queen Victoria. Drawing from the Queen’s personal diaries and letters, Susan focused on Victoria’s passionate and complex marriage to Prince Albert. She highlighted Victoria’s challenges as a reigning monarch, a mother, and a wife. Once again, Susan's talk was both enlightening and entertaining.
we are excited for our July meeting, where Katie Bell will take us behind the scenes at the Bristol Hippodrome with her talk Life Behind the Curtain. We’re also looking forward to our August outing to Minehead and Dunster.
Dianna Coles
SOUTH GLOS WINE CIRCLE
IN July the meeting subject was West Coast IPAs, and we were delighted to welcome five new members. Our chairman told us about the origins of IPA [India Pale Ale] and how the beer has changed over the years to the modern interpretation of the style today. He presented four beers all from local Bristol breweries in modern recyclable packaging [tins] in the style of American New England and West Coast IPA. All the beers were supplied by The Southville Deli in Church Rd, Redfield who also have an eclectic cheese counter. So we were able to purchase a cheese wrapped in hops which seemed quite appropriate. The beers made a few converts among our members who professed not to like beer. The cheese was excellent too.
Our next meeting is on 1st October when a committee member will be presenting Portuguese wine and port. Our venue is St Barnabas Church Hall, Warmley, BS30 5JJ. If you are interested get in touch on the email address below or take a look at our website sgwc.org.uk
Carol Coombs – Programme Secretary – carol@applause.co.uk
n COMMUNITY NEWS
LONGWELL GREEN WI
MEMBERS were given a presentation by Lottie Dale, ‘I Wanna Tell You a Story’, named after Max Bygrave’s catchphrase. This is about a book she wrote during Covid following a turning point in her life after having raised three boys, spent 17 years skydiving and then retiring from the NHS.
The book is based on a clever concept, and the memory of her cat Rory, who died 25 years ago after being hit by a car. She writes nine short stories, some are about her cat Rory crossing into different time periods through a ‘rainbow bridge’ and is based on the saying that a cat has nine lives,
One story is about Rory becoming a companion to an autistic teenager. Another story is about Rory being present at the Great Fire of London in 1666. We learned that as people started leaving the city, King Charles II threw coins to encourage people to stay and help put out the fire. Explosives were used to blow out houses and shops to cause a fire break.
Rory also appears with another cat called Sampi, on the HMS
Ask
Amethyst Royal Navy war ship in 1949 during the Chinese Civil War. Cats were kept on board to reduce the rat infestation, aid the recovery of sailors and to keep the morale of the crew up in general. Simon, the cat who served on the HMS Amethyst received the PDSA’s (People’s Dispensary for Sick Animals) Dicken Medal, and is the only cat to do so, after surviving injuries from an artillery shell to continue his role on the ship.
In 1898, the Savoy Hotel in London gained a unique tradition arising from a superstition regarding a table of 13 guests for a dinner party. The dinner party for 14 guests was reduced to 13 when one guest cancelled. A comment was jokingly made about the first person to leave would die. The guest who made the comment was fatally shot after the dinner. To prevent future occurrences of this superstition, the Savoy Hotel commissioned a life-sized wooden black cat sculpture, named Kaspar, to join any dinner party with 13 guests. Kaspar is now a beloved mascot of the Savoy and continues the tradition to this day.
Another tale tells of Rory and another cat called Tarquin visiting No 10 Downing Street, where,
the Expert: My daughter has lost her inheritance –can anything be done?
My first husband remarried several years ago and has now passed away unexpectedly. At this awful time, our 20-year-old daughter has had a huge shock. Because his second wife is still living and they had a child together, she’s discovered she won’t receive most of her inheritance—even the assets he owned before starting a new family. I know this isn’t what he would have wanted. Is there anything we can do?
I’m very sorry your daughter is facing this. What’s happened is sadly quite common and is known as sideways disinheritance. It usually occurs when someone remarries and either doesn’t update their will or dies without one altogether.
Under UK law, marriage cancels any existing will unless that will was made in contemplation of the new marriage. So if your ex-husband didn’t make a new will, he would have died intestate. In that case, the law dictates who inherits—and the surviving spouse takes priority, often receiving the bulk of the estate. Children from previous relationships
Larry, a tabby-and-white cat, from the Battersea Dogs & Cats Home, took up residence in 2011, joining a tradition of official government cats. Larry was the third of three cats to live at Downing Street after Humphrey and Sybil. He stayed there for 14 years living through no fewer than six Prime Ministers and had his own Twitter account.
• Our second Friends and Family Walk took place on Sunday 20 July in Clevedon for a 4-mile walk around the coast followed by a pub lunch.
We will be hosting a coffee morning for Macmillan on Saturday 27 September from 10 - noon in the Scout Hut, at Longwell Green Community Centre.
We have lots of groups that our members can participate in. There are book clubs, walking groups, knitting group, skittles and social suppers. On the first Thursday of the month, we meet at The Chapel Coffee Shop in Longwell Green for Tea and Chat.
The WI’s meetings are held on the third Friday of the month at 7.30 pm at the Longwell Green Community Centre and new members are always welcome. If you are interested in visiting, please get in touch by email at
longwellwi@gmail.com, telephone 0117 9864782 or come along on the meeting evening.
Kamann Humang
LONGWELL GREEN LADIES GROUP
MEMBERS of Longwell Green Ladies Group are looking forward to getting together again on September 5. We have a varied programme of speakers, and demonstrations, to look forward to beginning with a quiz and social afternoon.
The group meet at 2pm on the first and third Tuesday of each month in the Wesley Room at the United Church, Bath Road, Longwell Green BS30 9DU (opp. Aldi). Meetings are friendly and relaxed with interesting speakers and social activities. The group have been meeting for over sixty years having started out as “Longwell Green Young Wives” and we would welcome new members. If you would like further information please phone Maureen on 0117 9322341 or you can just come along to one of our meetings - we’d love to see you and you will be made very welcome.
Will Writing
may receive little or nothing, even if the assets were originally meant for them.
Meet with a local professional and receive full guidance and support.
If there’s strong evidence that your ex intended to provide for your daughter—such as previous wills, letters, or long-standing financial support—she might be able to make a claim under the Inheritance (Provision for Family and Dependants) Act 1975.
Family & Property Trusts
Ensure your loved ones receive the maximum benefit by protecting your estate with trusts.
Lasting Powers of Attorney
Give someone the power to make decisions on your behalf, no matter what happens.
Probate Services
Our specialists help make a difficult time as stress-free and straightforward as possible.
This law allows certain people, including adult children, to apply for reasonable financial provision from the estate. But claims must usually be made within six months of probate being granted, so timing is critical.
It’s a tough situation, but legal advice should be sought quickly to explore any options.
Jim Emsley
Jim Emsley is a professional will writer and the Founder of Bristolbased ELM Legal Services. Have a question related to wills and estates? Send it to Jim at hello@elm-online.co.uk and mention ‘Voice newspapers’ in the subject line for potential inclusion in a future column.
n IN THE SPOTLIGHT
Serving the community for more than 75 years
THOUSANDS of entries appear in the newspaper archives for the Hanham Folk Centre, listing the achievements of the centre’s many sporting clubs, highlighting the successes of theatre shows and celebrating the annual gymkhana.
Now called Hanham Community Centre, this place is like the Tardis. A maze of corridors, side rooms and function suites, the centre has been extended several times and continues to be well-used – but how did it start?
In 1943, six people wanted to rebuild the community they felt had been lost during the two world wars. Writing to the Western Daily Press on 3 May 1944, chairman David Evans announced: “A public scheme has been launched at Hanham for building a folk centre, and we are working very hard in various ways to raise funds and keep up interest in the same.”
With that, the fundraising ball began to roll. A team of 24 formed an Investigation Committee to raise money and awareness and, early in 1933, a plot of land on the High Street was bought for £3,100.
The suggestion that the community could save money by physically building the Folk Centre themselves was dismissed in the Western Daily Press as “an idealistic attempt to overcome difficulties but at the moment it would be too big an effort even if the materials were available”.
What started as an idea from a handful of World War One veterans spiralled to become a hub for Hanham. Jane Duffus takes a trip through time at Hanham Folk Centre
It was certainly an enterprising notion but perhaps an unrealistic one.
With veterans from World War One forming the bulk of the centre’s initial committee, the Great War was obviously close to their hearts. So in 1947, when Hanham’s First World War memorial needed to be relocated from Whittucks Road, it seemed appropriate that it should move to the new Folk Centre. In 1995, a plaque was added honouring the names of Hanham residents who died during World War Two. Since 2014 the war memorial has been Grade II listed.
The first incarnation of the Hanham Folk Centre opened on 29 March 1949 and the trustees had also bought the sports field in Hanham Abbots so that outdoor activities could be offered.
Initially the centre consisted of two huts linked by a corridor and a hall that could seat 160 people. There was also a kitchen and a billiards room. Alderman Joseph Alpass MP, president of the Folk Centre, cut the ribbon and BBC contralto Gwendoline Evans, wife of chairman David, sang ‘Bless This House’.
In his opening speech, Alderman Alpass said: “The energy and zeal that has been displayed is beyond praise and
proof that with determination, with constant and persistent effort, much good work can be accomplished.”
That’s certainly what happened as the decades unfurled. Activities offered at the Folk Centre were all encompassing. As well as numerous sports teams using the playing field, inside activities included jumble sales, snooker, art, dressmaking and a choir.
'The energy and zeal that has been displayed is beyond praise'
In 1949, there was even the Hanham Beauty Show won by Pam Tucker.
By 1957 the centre had a 15-piece orchestra. However, initial reports that the orchestra was all-male were squashed and the Bristol Evening Post said: “Apologies. I referred to this group as an all-male one but learn it has a woman pianist and cellist.” Never forget the women!
By April 1961, plans for the permanent building that we recognise today were approved.
With architect Mr B Woodward at the helm, building work began in 1963 and would lead to a centre with a hall that seated 320 people, a stage, two craft rooms, a lounge, kitchen and several smaller rooms.
“We urgently require these new buildings,” warden Harold Turner told the Bristol Evening Post. “Many of our existing activities have been restricted because of lack of adequate space.”
The opening ceremony was on 6 June 1964 with President Harry Crook cutting the ribbon and members enjoying a gala dance. A temporary bar was set up in the craft room until a dedicated bar could be built in the early 1970s.
Councillor Ian Smith unveiled a new extension that included the Wessex Suite on 6 October 1984. The Radio Bristol Singers were the first to perform in the new hall and director Mary Hales told the Bristol New Observer: “The extensions are very impressive and as a member of the Folk Centre from its earliest days [we] were proud and honoured to be the first musical group to perform there.”
The Centre’s 50th anniversary was celebrated on 19 May 1995 with a grand dinner. A big change came in 2009 when it was decided to rename the organisation as the Hanham Community Centre and it began a whole new lease of life that we continue to enjoy today.
Hanham Community Centre in 2025
The centre's meeting room
hanham&longwellgreenvoice
n WHAT'S ON
August 1-31
n HEDGEHOG HUNT Eleven hedgehogs are hidden around the area. Get a trail map from Warmley Community Centre or download from Siston Parish Council website.
Saturday August 2
n WARMLEY FLOWER SHOW at Warmley Community centre. There are various flower classes, photography, crafts, preserves, vegetables, baking. Brochures with entry forms are around at Warmley businesses, post office, Fonthill etc. Please support this lovely local show, Entry £1.00 doors open 12.00.
Sunday September 7
n CHORAL EVENSONG at St Mary’s Church, Bitton, 6.30pm,to be sung by the Nota Bene choir to mark the patronal festival and the result of the fete. Followed by prosecco and canape reception.
Saturday September 13
n SKATE JAM at Warmley Forest Skatepark, BS30 5JB, 1-4pm. Open to everyone aged 11 to 19 with skateboards, scooters, quad bikes, BMXs. DJ, refreshments and other activities. Run by Siston Parish Council and Creative Youth Network.
Saturday and Sunday September 13-14
n BRANDY BOTTOM COLLIERY, Come and visit the best-preserved 19th Century Coalmine. In association with Heritage Open Days 2025, guided tours will be offered on 13/14th September from 10.30am. Find us by the South Glos cycle path opposite and within walking distance of Lyde Green Estate, it is signposted. Internet details at Brandy Bottom Wednesday September 24 n SINGING CHILDREN OF KENYA AND MILITARY WIVES CHOIR concert at Longwell Green United Reformed Church, BS30 9DF, 7pm. Adults £10, under 12s £5.
Saturday September 20
n WARMLEY SIGNAL BOX Community garden and Grade II listed signal box open 11 am until 4 pm as part of Heritage Open Days.. Table top sale and raffle. See a historic Midland Railway Signal Box and learn about the role of the signalman.
REGULAR EVENTS
MONDAY
n LONGWELL GREEN ART CLUB, no tutors. Would you like to do your own thing in the company of a small, friendly group that meet
Mondays 9.30 to 12.30, arrive and leave as you please. URC Wesley room. Contact Jackie on 01179600273 or email colown@ blueyonder.co.uk
n YOGA CLASSES AT HANHAM COMMUNITY CENTRE - Monday evenings 7-8 pm. To book your place or for further information please email yogashula@hotmail.com or Text/ Tel 07949333548.
TUESDAY
n LIP READING CLASS, 1.303pm at North Common Village Hall, Millers Drive, BS30 8YH. Contact Mary Hall 07790 283939, lipreadingmary@yahoo.com
n TUESDAY CLUB a social group meet every Tuesday 1.45-3.45pm at Longwell Green Community Centre
n EXERCISE AND FRIENDSHIP GROUP at The Community Project in Cadbury Heath (BS30 8EL) every Tuesday, 11:00 – 12:30. Join our over 65s. Improve strength, balance, and more in a fun, inclusive environment. Just £5/session includes tea/coffee and chat. Don’t miss out on boosting your wellbeing! For more information contact Adam - 07875503586
n LONGWELL GREEN LADIES
GROUP meet at 2pm on the first and third Tuesday of each month at the United Church, Bath Road, Longwell Green BS30 9DU (opp. Aldi). Please phone Maureen on 0117 9322341
n HANHAM TENNIS CLUB
Adult Play - Tuesday & Thursday evenings and Sunday afternoons. Monday, Wednesday & Friday mornings, 9.30am - 11 am. . Beginners' session coaching - Wednesday 7-8pm. Junior coaching - most early evenings. New players welcome. Fully qualified LTA coaching. See website for details www. hanhamtennisclub.co.uk
n LONGWELL GREEN SHORT MAT BOWLS CLUB, We meet Wednesday and Fridays 1.30 to 3.30 at the Longwell Green community centre , Shellards road, in the California suite. All equipment provided. Beginners very welcome. We are a friendly group who need additional members. Email. Michael8bence@ gmail.com. Tel 07800869837
WEDNESDAY
n BARRS COURT PROBUS CLUB Retired and semi-retired Professional and Businessmen: Meet 2nd and 4th Wednesdays 10-12 at Longwell Green Community Centre. Please contact our Membership Secretary, Mick Funnell: 0117 932 4104 or email bcprobusclub@gmail.com to arrange a visit. Website: https:// barrscourtprobus.org/
n BARRS COURT LADIES CLUB: Wives and partners of the Probus club members meet 10-12 on the second Wednesday of each month at the United Church, Bath Road, Longwell Green. Website: https:// barrscourtprobus.org/
n ZEST CHOIR is an inclusive happy singing group for all adults who love to sing - even if you think you can’t or might be Tone Deaf! We meet Term Time Wednesdays at Longwell Green Community Centre from 10.15am-11.45am and from 7-8.30pm. Contact Mary on 07954 170532 www.zestchoirs.com.
n LONGWELL GREEN PROBUS CLUB meets at Warmley Community Centre on the first and third Wednesday of each month.. New members welcomefor details contact Mike on 07817094147
n HANHAM BRIDGE CLUB Every Weds 7-10pm at Hanham Community Centre, see www. hanhambridgeclub.co.uk.
n HANHAM AND KINGSWOOD PHOTO CLUB. A friendly club welcoming photographers of all abilities to share our hobby. Meeting 7.15pm for a 7.30pm start on most Wednesdays, St Barnabas Church Hall, Warmley, BS30 5JJ. See the website for where meetings will be held (some on Zoom & some evenings out). For details visit https://www.handkphoto.club or contact Geoff Mallin at email address, geoffmemsechps@gmail. com
n RWP BADMINTON CLUB play at Hanham Woods Academy 6.307.30 social club, 7.30-9.30 league club. Visitors welcome, please look at the website for more details
n LIP READING CLASS, 10amnoon, Warmley Community Centre. Termtime only. Contact Mary Hall 07790 283939, lipreadingmary@ yahoo.com
THURSDAY
n ‘STAND UP REACH OUT’ A
To advertise, contact Emma on 0117 908 2121 Or 07715 770448.
social group meet every Thursday 2-4pm at Longwell Green Community Centre for different activities.
n HANHAM ART CLUB We are friendly group that meets on a Thursday evening at Hanham Community Centre 7pm-9pm. New members welcome from beginners to the more experienced. For more information contact Hilary on 07880548481 or email tweenuk2003@yahoo.com
n AVON SCALE MODEL SOCIETY We are a small friendly club, all subjects are included, aircraft, cars, armoured vehicles, fantasy, etc we meet on the 3rd Thursday of the month, at St. Anne's Hall, Barry Road, Oldland Common. at 8pm. Please contact Ian on 0117 9603435
n BLACK SHEEP HARMONY We welcome new singers to any of our weekly rehearsals, to join in or just to listen. 7:30pm on Thursdays in Hanham Community Centre. Contact Noey: 07899 088180 or check out our website www. blacksheepharmony.com FRIDAY
n LONGWELL GREEN WI meet on the third Friday of the month at 7.30pm at Longwell Green Community Centre. New members are always welcome. Email longwellwi@gmail.com or tel. 0117 9864782.
n TAI CHI FOR PARKINSON'S: Weekly beginners Tai Chi & Qi Gong class for people with Parkinson’s disease, their families and carers. Lincombe Barn, Downend. BS16 2RW. Fridays (term times) 10.15 – 12.15 including tea / coffee break. Contact: Claire - Claire@Taichibodyandmind. co.uk (07769 857672) or Sarah - buqiworks@gmail.com (07815 662844)
n LONGWELL GREEN COMMUNITY CENTRE QUIZ NIGHT, meets normally first Friday of each month at 8 pm. Bar available. For details please contact Marian.r.summerill@gmail.com, or ring 07503 989880.
n CROFT END SILVER BAND Hanham Tabernacle, Tabernacle Road, practice 7.15pm - 8.45pm. Players needed on all sections , all ages welcome and training given. We are a happy Band with a good atmosphere. More details contact Rob (Chairman) on 07788 473404
Prediabetes diagnosis? Don't panic – you can reduce risks
HAVE you been told you have prediabetes? This is a warning sign that you are at high risk of developing Type 2 Diabetes. Prediabetes is also sometimes called borderline diabetes. An estimated 6.3 million people are at an increased risk of Type 2 Diabetes in the UK but Kellaway Pharmacy can help reduce this risk.
Prediabetes means that your blood sugars are higher than usual, but not high enough for you to be diagnosed with Type 2 Diabetes. It also means that you are at high risk of developing Type 2 Diabetes. You are unlikely to be experiencing any symptoms of prediabetes.
Type 2 diabetes happens because insulin can’t work
properly or the insulin your body makes doesn’t work properly, so your blood sugar levels keep rising. This means more insulin is released. For some people with Type 2 Diabetes, this can eventually tire the pancreas out, meaning their body makes less and less insulin. This can lead to even higher blood sugar levels.
Prediabetes doesn’t have any symptoms. A lot of people, however, also don’t get any symptoms when it comes to Type 2 diabetes, or don’t notice them.
These symptoms include: • Going to the toilet more often, especially at night
• Feeling more tired than usual
• Losing weight without trying, and loss of muscle bulk
• Genital itching or frequent episodes of thrush
• Cuts and wounds are taking longer to heal
• Blurred vision
• Feeling extremely thirsty.
Visit your GP as soon as possible if you experience any symptoms of diabetes.
Did you know that being at risk doesn’t mean you will definitely develop Type 2 Diabetes? The good news is you don’t have it yet, and with the right support, up to 50% of cases of Type 2 Diabetes can be prevented or delayed.
How? Research has consistently shown that combined lifestyle interventions—encompassing diet, physical activity, and sustained weight loss, alongside
giving up smoking and reducing alcohol intake —can be effective in reducing the risk of Type 2 Diabetes by half!
Today is a great time to start making healthy changes to your diet, increasing your physical activity levels, and losing weight to reduce your risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
Making these lifestyle changes can seem daunting, while achieving and maintaining sustainable weight loss can be a challenging task. However, the good news is that we now see daily at Kellaway Pharmacy that this possible , and our team is here to help you too.
Come in or contact Kellaway Pharmacy on 0117 9246579, we will offer you support.
n ANTIQUES
WHAT links Elvis Presley, Tony Curtis, Ringo Starr and Roger Moore? One woman; Suzanna Leigh. The London-born actress had a series of roles during the sixties and seventies, but a special ‘lucky’ necklace worn by her has now found it’s way to our saleroom and is set to sell for thousands of pounds later this year.
The necklace – a simple single-strand faux pearl necklace - was purchased by Leigh in 1962 on the King’s Road in London. The purchase came as a celebration of her first television acting role, alongside Roger Moore in an episode of The Saint. Other small roles soon followed, but her big break came when she was cast as Elvis Presley’s love interest in the 1966 movie Paradise, Hawaiian Style. When her character was required to wear a necklace, she turned up on set with her lucky pearls, and the rest is history.
n KINGSWOOD HISTORY SOCIETY
Brunel in a changing world
by Iain McGregor – 1st July 2025
IAIN delivered a captivating talk, initially covering the life of IKB then linking the great innovations of his age to the major changes in the world. IKB was born in 1806 in Portsmouth and was 53 when he died in 1859. Educated in France. He is well known for his designs relating to the GWR, Clifton Suspension Bridge, SS Great Western and SS Great Britain in relation to Bristol. Do you know what the SS stands for?
The SS Great Britain full of innovation being the largest ship in the world at the time. Screw propelled and made of wrought iron. 14 days to New York when previously could take months albeit only 42 on first trip due to some scare mongering.
In the 1830s there were 3 major developments that would change the world, Trains, Ships and the Telegraph and IKB had some input into all 3. Iain made the connections, showing how these innovations increased trade around the world, making goods a lot cheaper, travel, distribution of foods improving the health for many people. An example being the Pineapple, once a status symbol costing thousands of pounds and not even eaten compared to today’s price. A fourth innovation was touched on, being Print (Newspapers), holding governments to account, albeit requiring distribution.
The talk finished with a chart demonstrating how these developments had impacted the UK. The population of the UK had grown from 10.5 million in 1800 to 41.5 million in 1900. There were a few questions from the audience, one being "How do you weigh large ships?".
Next meeting at the Park Centre, Kingswood is Tuesday 5th August, 7pm for 7,30pm start. Visitors £4 incl tea/coffee and biscuits.
Full schedule of presentations can be found at www.kingswoodhistorysociety.org
As well as rubbing shoulders with Presley, the necklace was also worn to the premiere of Boeing Boeing starring Tony Curtis and Jerry Lewis, and was with Leigh during her time alongside Ringo Starr in the 1974 musical comedy Son Of Dracula
Quite an amazing history for an otherwise unremarkable necklace! It’s come to us all the way from Nashville, Tennessee, on behalf of Leigh’s daughter. It also comes with loads of original photographs, a signed photo and a full letter of provenance. For collectors, it doesn’t really get much better!
Selling Hollywood History Slimming World
I sometimes have to pinch myself with the items we get to sell, and this item is no different. To even be in the same room as an item that was touched by Elvis Presley himself is incredible, let alone having the opportunity to handle it. Its estimate when it comes up for auction later this year is £5,000 to £8,000. Well, it’s one for the money, two for the show…
Andy Stowe, Auctioneum
Longwell Green Community Centre, Shellards Road
Longwell Green BS30 9DU
Monday: 6.00pm & 7.30pm
Tuesday: 9.30am
Tel: Karen 07889 408969
Hanham Baptist Church
157a High Street, Hanham BS15 3QZ
Saturday: 9:00am
Tel: Izzy 07581715665
AEK Boco FC, Greenbank Road, Hanham BS15 3RZ
Thursday: 9.15am, 11.00am
3.45, 5.15 & 7.00pm Friday: 9.00am
Tel: Kate 07979 494964
North Common Village Hall, 16 Millers Dr, North Common BS30 8XX
Tuesday: 6pm & 7.30pm
Tel: Emma 07773 689229
KINGSWOOD Rugby Football Club once again made history on July 12 by hosting the world’s largest Walking Rugby Festival at its Grimsbury Road grounds in Bristol.
The seventh annual event welcomed more than 520 players across 52 teams from 39 clubs, drawing participants from across the UK.
The festival, organised by the Kingswood Titans Walking Rugby Section, showcased the growing popularity of walking rugby - a simplified, inclusive version of the sport designed for all ages and abilities. There were 156 matches played across 12 pitches, making the day a celebration of camaraderie and sportsmanship.
Steve Deery, director of walking rugby at Kingswood RFC, said: “This festival just keeps getting better each year. At Kingswood, we believe in making the game fun and inclusive, so we don’t keep score. This creates a relaxed, enjoyable atmosphere for everyone involved. It’s all about participation, camaraderie, and fairplay.”
Despite the intense heat, the event ran smoothly and all the matches started and finished on time. Organisers provided ample water and shaded areas, with support from local community group We are BS15.
The festival wasn’t just about the games, it was a full-day experience. Spectators enjoyed food stalls, refreshments from the clubhouse bar, and live music in the evening. Special guests in-cluded George Taylor from the Bristol Bears, whose mother was among the players, represent-ing Nailsea and Backwell RFC.
Kingswood RFC fielded
Club hosts world's largest walking rugby festival
nine teams from across its club sections, including the Titans, Seniors, Vets, and Women’s Rugby. The club’s inclusive ethos was evident throughout the day, with players of all backgrounds and abilities taking part.
Awards were presented to Guildfordians RFC, winners of the Kingswood Walking Rugby Memo-rial Shield, while Crickhowell RFC won the Titans Captain’s FairPlay Award.
Walking rugby continues to grow, with Kingswood Titans actively participating
Plea for tools to help veterans
CHIPPING Sodbury Rotary Club has been supporting Tools for Self Reliance (TFSR) for several years and has been collecting old carpentry or engineering tools, or electrical tools (without batteries). We have collected many donations and delivered them to the Bristol centre in Warmley where they have been processed, polished, sharpened and renewed – all being packed into complete tool kits to
in festivals across the UK and even internationally, including a recent trip to Brussels. The club maintains strong ties with local and Welsh teams, promoting mixed training sessions and community engagement.
Looking ahead, Kingswood RFC has already announced the eighth Walking Rugby Festival, set for Saturday July 11, 2026.
For more information about the Walking Rugby Festival and other Kingswood RFC events visit: https://www. kingswoodrfc.co.uk/
Kingswood RFC president Richard Cains looks on as Steve Deery presents the Memorial Shield to Ian McKie from Guildfordians RFC
send to Africa. These are given to students to enable them to take a technical college course, or to young entrepreneurs to enable them to start a small business.
We now have news of a new initiative started by TFSR. It's called A Building Kit for Building Heroes and it's designed to help Armed Forces veterans to get back into work after leaving the Servicesspecifically into the building trade.
So now we would like to hear from anyone who can offer builders' tools such as brick bolsters, cold chisels, masonry drill
bits, hammers (brick, lump, sledge) mallets, pliers, shovels, spades, spirit levels etc. anything to do with the building trade. .....and by the way, TFSR is now also happy to accept old gardening tools. We are happy to collect in the Kingswood, Warmley, Marshfield areas, so if you're clearing out your shed and can offer any of these things, (carpentry, engineering, building, gardening) please call Clive on 0117 932 2673, and we will collect.
Marian Gilpin Yate
n NEWS
Poppy party
THE Bitton & Oldland Branch of the Royal British Legion (RBL) held its annual summer thank-you event at the Golden Valley Café in Bitton. The evening brought together members, supporters, and local representatives to celebrate the branch’s achievements and ongoing commitment to supporting the Armed Forces community.
The branch was founded in 1927 so is two years short of its centenary. Its oldest member is aged 99.
Last year, the Bitton & Oldland Branch raised an impressive £36,000 for the Poppy Appeal, largely thanks to customers of Asda in Longwell Green, who visit and support the branch’s Poppy Stand.
Nationally, the Royal British Legion continues to make a significant impact. In 2023/24 alone, the charity awarded £11.8
million in grants and provided care for nearly 800 residents across its care homes.
Anne Lewin, manager of the RBL Dunkirk Memorial House in Somerset, gave a talk at the event and was presented with £1000 from the branch.
The branch’s Poppy Appeal
Loft Boarding & Insulation
stand in Asda, Longwell Green.
Guests also heard from branch president Lt.Col KCR Gibson TD DL and branch chairman S.Ldr JF Dando RNR. Representing Oldland Parish Council, Martin Farmer (Chair of the Council) attended the event and praised the RBL’s vital work both locally and nationally.
“It was a privilege to hear first-hand about the incredible support the Legion provides to veterans and their families,” he said. “The Golden Valley Café, nestled in the heart of the countryside, provided a perfect setting for a warm and uplifting evening.”
organiser Dawn Harrill was presented with a 20-year membership certificate. Special awards went to six-year-old Flynn, who with his dad walked the 20-mile Dartmoor Three Bridges Challenge to help raise funds and Florence, aged eight, who regularly helps on the Poppy
The parish council and the RBL share a longstanding partnership, including the annual launch of the Poppy Appeal at Payne Green, Barrs Court. This year’s launch is scheduled for Friday October 24 at 11am.
For more information about the Bitton & Oldland Branch or to get involved with the Poppy Appeal, please email: dawners@ btinternet.com.
To join the branch, contact Cathryn Short on 07800 690339. Annual membership is £22.
Martin Farmer, Ken Gibson and Dawn Harrill
n LOCAL HISTORY
The Crown & Horseshoe, Oldland Common A History by Julie Johns
THE Crown & Horseshoe public house in Oldland Common has existed for over two centuries, though its exact origin remains uncertain. Records suggest it was already operational by 1794, when a Friendly Society met there. The Quarman family is closely tied to its history, managing it for nearly a century during the 1800s. James Quarman (1757–1815) and his wife Martha LONG (1767–1848) are believed to have been its earliest owners. The Quarman family also farmed in the Oldland area with some older people still remembering a local field known as Quarman’s, field, behind 98 Cloverlea Road.
The couple had nine children, and their lineage played a crucial role in the pub’s continuity. Census records from 1841 list Martha as the publican, with several children and grandchildren residing on or near the premises. Newspaper reports from the early 1800s reflect the pub’s role as a community hub, hosting auctions, dinners for military groups like the North Somerset Yeomanry, and inquests.
By 1851, Martha’s grandson James Quarman (b.1822) was running the Crown & Horseshoe with his wife Ann (Martha having died in 1848). He continued in this role through the 1860s and 70s. His children included Alfred, Samuel, and William. Notably, James faced legal disputes, such as a trespassing case in 1867 initiated by his neighbour Jesse Fudge over the shooting of game. This was eventually dismissed due to the erratic behaviour of the accuser.
Throughout the 19th century, the pub was the site of several inquests—many tied to mining accidents, such as the deaths of George Fudge and John Bush in 1863 and young Luther Waugh in 1885. Despite such tragedies, the Crown & Horseshoe maintained a reputation as a respectable and orderly establishment, unlike other pubs often cited for licensing issues.
After James Quarman’s death in 1880, the pub was leased out. By 1891, his grandson William Henry Quarman (b.1868) had become the landlord, living there with his
wife Mary and newborn daughter. That same year, however, the licence transferred to Alfred Lear, who continued running the pub into the early 1900s. Ownership changed hands in the early 20th century to W. Hall and Sons Brewery, later acquired by Georges & Co. in 1912.
The Crown & Horseshoe continued serving the community, hosting local cycling clubs, Conservative meetings, and other social functions. In 1911, it was managed by widow Eliza Drake and her son George. By 1921, Caroline Rose Marsh, previously married to George Drake (killed in WWI), held the licence. She stayed until the late 1920s.
In the 1930s, William John Elliott and his wife Winifred (“Winnie”) took over. William’s family may have had ties to Eliza Drake. Following William’s death in 1934, Winnie continued managing the pub into the 1960s. The 1939 Register shows her still living at the pub, with housekeeper Ida Parry, who later became Mayo—possibly through marriage to lodger Cyril Mayo.
The pub maintained its local importance during this time, with a popular skittles team and continued use by clubs like
Bitton A.F.C., which celebrated its 20th anniversary there in 1939. Anecdotes from the 1940s describe a hollow tree on the premises, affectionately dubbed “The Hole in the Tree” by children.
In the late twentieth century the pub was managed by Ken & Rita Dando, then Dave & Pauline Scrase.
Through generations, the Crown & Horseshoe has stood as a cornerstone of community life
in Oldland Common—hosting social gatherings, supporting local causes, and serving as home to generations of the Quarman family and others who carried on its legacy.
Our local pubs both past and present have featured in many articles written by either Julie Johns or David Noble published by Bitton Parish History Group. For further information please visit www.bittonhistory.org.uk
The Crown & Horseshoe 1937 (George’s Brewery). Photo kindly shared by David Noble with kind permission of I.S. Bishop. Original photo provided by Ken Thomas (Courage Ltd)
The Crown & Horseshoe, early 1900s, photo courtesy Bristol Records Office
FRANKIE HOWERD
Kingswood Heritage Museum has an extensive collection of images of the many celebrities who have grown up in and visited the area. Many of these images are featured in one of the Museum’s new exhibitions for 2025.
This month’s “Memory” features the late Frankie Howerd (born Francis Alick Howard), the well-known comedian and comic actor.
Frankie began his career in radio after the Second World War, and was also a regular on the Music Hall circuit. During the 1960’s Frankie appeared in a number of television and stage
Museum opening hours
The Museum is open until the end of November from 2 – 5pm every Saturday, Sunday and Tuesday, and from 11am to 5pm on Bank Holidays, including the August Bank Holiday. Children under 16 are admitted free.
Museum talk: The History of Place Names
This month’s talk takes place at Kingswood Heritage Museum on Wednesday 13th August, when Alan Clarke will be explaining “The History of Place Names”.
Admission costs £4.50, including tea or
roles, including “A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum”, which led into regular television work.
During the 1960s and 1970s Frankie was involved in television shows for the BBC, Thames and Yorkshire Television. He became well known for his seemingly off-the-cuff remarks to the audience, direct addresses to camera and comments such as such as "Oooh, no missus" and "Titter ye not". This was perhaps best illustrated in the show “Up Pompeii!”
Frankie’s film credits include his debut appearance in 1954 opposite Petula Clark in “The Runaway Bus”; "The Ladykillers"; appearances in
coffee; doors open at 7pm and the talk commences at 7.30 pm; Seats must be booked in advance via 0117 9605664, or by email: kingswoodmuseum@gmail.com
Events and activities
The Museum hosts a range of events and activities throughout the year, including an opportunity from 1pm to 4pm on Sunday 2nd August to walk and draw the historic Warmley Gardens with Cai Burton.
three of the “Carry On” series of films; “The Great St Trinian’s Train Robbery”; “Up Pompeii”, and "Sergeant Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band" Frankie continued working on stage and television until his death at the age of 75 in 1992. The featured photograph (courtesy of the South Gloucestershire Gazette) illustrates a visit by Frankie to present awards at the NSPCC Young League in Downend in 1980.
If you were present when Frankie visited Downend please share your memories with Kingswood Heritage Museum by email at kingswoodmuseum@gmail.com, or by phone on 0117 9605664
Join us
Follow us on Facebook and Instagram or see our website at www.kingswoodmuseum.org. uk for more details of this event and the latest news about the Museum and our other events and activities.
Kingswood Heritage Museum is run entirely by volunteers. Would you like to help us to conserve and display the history of our area, and to pass our knowledge on to future generations?
Whatever skills you can offer, Kingswood Heritage Museum would like to hear from you. If you would like to join our enthusiastic and friendly group of volunteers do get in touch by emailing us at kingswoodmuseum@gmail.com, or simply call us on 0117 9605664. We would love to hear from you!
hanham&longwellgreenvoice
n SPORT
FRYS BOWLING CLUB
Frys Bowls Club entertained the Unstoppables group at the bowling club on June 24. The evening was a huge success and builds on the relationship with the group.
On the evening two members of the group, Lucy and Alice, won the competition .
The club provided food and drinks at the club, which everyone enjoyed. The Unstoppables started in 2008 funded by Time2share, in 2019 funding stopped, but the Group continued to be run by volunteers. All staff members are volunteers and nobody gets paid. At present there are 20 members with three volunteers.
Lianne Morse, whose main job is working as an intensive care nurse at the baby unit at the RUH, runs the group.
Most members are independent due to the group and it helps to build confidence and develop friendships. Some work at the RUH and local schools/university.
The volunteers have to run events to find the money to keep the group going, planned events coming up are a train trip and meal in Bradford on Avon, a fundraising football match Sunday July27 at Radstock Football Club 2pm and the most adventurous trip is a Disney cruise.
Robin Eveleigh who runs Eveleighs Estate Agents is a very generous supporter donating
KEYNSHAM BOWLING CLUB
BEING situated at the heart of the town within Keynsham Park is a constant reminder that our club is part of the community.
So we were delighted to welcome a group of Explorer Scouts to our green at the start of July, when 12 girls, five boys and three leaders joined a session hosted by our club coaches.
Although the boys coped well, the girls found it more of a challenge to land close to the elusive jack.
excellent prizes for events.
Frys Bowls club look forward to the next event at the club with the Unstoppables.
Bristol and District League:
The first half of the Bristol and District League season came to an end with Fry's welcoming fourth placed St Anne's Park. After a close start, rinks 2 and 3 were a formality for the home side as both rinks would close out wins. A topsy turvy game on rink 1 saw St Anne's hold on as Fry's picked up 8 points to finish the first half of the season top of the table, 13 points clear of Imperial.
After Fry's took 10 points at home to Ardagh, the visit to Avonmouth proved tricky as two rinks struggled. Rink 1 dominated settling any nerves, but the other two rinks came down to the final end. Rink 3 went the way of Avonmouth picking up a single. On rink 2, some excellent leading and a good bowl
Seven of them returned for a second session later in the month when we set out the rinks differently using the targets and cones, to make it more of a fun evening.
Our gardening team, headed by Margaret Bevan, has made the paths around the green an absolute delight with a fantastic display of tubs, hanging baskets and troughs. We were judged at the start of the month by Keynsham in Bloom and eagerly await the verdict.
Our green continues to be
from Fry's number 3 saw Fry's hold a close 2 shots with the skips to bowl Avonmouth knocked up Fry's thirds bowl to count for a tight third shot. Fry's took the extra two points, picking up 8 points, extending their lead at the top of the table.
Scores:
26th June: Fry's 61-30 St Anne's Park: Rink 1: 14-15; Rink 2: 26-7; Rink 3: 21-8 (8-2).
3rd July: Fry's 78-29 Ardagh: Rink 1: 28-10; Rink 2: 32-6; Rink 3: 18-13; (10-0)
10th July: Fry's 64-42 Avomouth: Rink 1: 38-14; Rink 2: 15-14; Rink 3: 11-4; (8-2).
Cups:
Fry's reached the final of Triples League Cup on Tuesday in the semi-final against Victoria Park (Bristol). A good performance saw Fry's come out winners by 9 shots and will now face Keynsham in the final in September. Fry's gave Keynsham a good run in their Bristol and District League Lloyd Trophy 1st round match. Fry's were unable to pull the early deficit back as Keynsham edged away to 46-39 win.
Following a 41-81 defeat in the Somerset Bowls Association Turnbull Cup to Knowle, Fry's travelled to Paulton in the Wedmore Plate, taking the match 78-57.
Scores:
24th June: Fry’s 39-46 Keynsham 1st July: Fry's 41-81 Knowle
16th July: Fry’s 78-57 Paulton
used daily and there are just a few brown patches caused by the lack of rain. While we have an irrigation system around the green, there is nothing like the “real stuff” to keep the grass green.
On the playing front, our men suffered a narrow loss to Weston Bath in the fifth round of the Wedmore Plate. This is a Somerset-based competition open to clubs that lose in the early rounds of the Turnbull Cup.
The semi-finals of the Friday Triples Cup were held alongside
To advertise, contact Emma on 0117 908 2121 Or 07715 770448.
each other on the Knowle green, when we had a convincing win over Avonvale. The second semi-final was between Fry’s and Victoria Park, with Fry’s being victorious. We therefore look forward to the final against our local rivals at St Anne’s Park on Friday September 26.
Things to look forward to include the annual fixture between our ladies and gents, plus our captains’ charity barbecue.
The Unstoppables in action
Mike Barrow
