Somerdale one-stop shop plan scrapped
PROPOSALS for a convenience store at Somerdale in Keynsham have been withdrawn.
Local councillors have expressed their disappointment that One Stop Stores has decided not to proceed after licensing was granted by Bath and North East Somerset Council in February 2024.
Cllr Alex Beaumont (Keynsham North, Liberal Democrats) has been in correspondence on the matter with Tesco, owner of One Stop Stores, since May 2024 on behalf of residents.
He said: “While I understand it is for One Stop to take a commercial decision, nevertheless residents will be deeply disappointed.
“We’ve spoken to lots of residents who were keen for a nearby shop for everyday essentials, so this is an unfortunate setback.”
Tesco confirmed to Cllr Beaumont last month that it was not proceeding with the store and further confirmed to Keynsham Town Council this was due to a “strategic review”.
n Turn to Page 2
Pre-school to shut
Queens Road Methodist Church
Pre-School in Keynsham is to close this month after 50 years.
PAGE 3
Future of banking
The former Halifax branch in Keynsham High Street looks set to become a permanent home for the town’s banking hub.
PAGE 5
Warehouse bid
Keynsham company IJ McGill Transport is seeking to extend a warehouse at its base in Avon Mill Lane.
PAGE 11
Go-kart teamwork
A group of teenagers from Keynsham put their skills and teamwork to the test at a national karting final.
PAGE 19
Striking gold
Three former students from Wellsway School in Keynsham have received their Gold Duke of Edinburgh’s Award.
PAGE 26
The Keynsham Re-Loved event offered a showcase of local sustainable fashion, homewares, and eco living. See Pages 24 & 25
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n NEWS
Disappointment as store plan withdrawn
n From Page 1
One Stop Stores had said it hoped to open a store in May last year after being granted a licence for the unit at the Chocolate Factory, the commercial block next to St Monica Trust’s Chocolate Quarter retirement village.
At the time, some neighbours were concerned that alcohol sales could lead to antisocial behaviour in the area, causing noise and litter.
But St Monica Trust backed the application, saying that its residents had been petitioning for a shop, including the provision of selling alcohol, since the retirement village opened in 2017.
Cllr George Leach (Keynsham North, Liberal Democrats) added: “It is frustrating for residents, who were promised various amenities by developers
over 10 years ago when they first purchased their properties in Somerdale, that have yet to materialise.
“I do believe the government should do more to prevent developers advertising features that, in practice, they have little control over.
“It is a bit misleading to claim a new development will have a shop if you don’t have a committed operator lined up, for example. Residents want infrastructure when new housing is built, such as GPs, dentists, shops and other amenities, and there should be more emphasis on developers to make their proposals a reality when applying for planning permission.”
The Voice approached One Stop Stores for comment but had received no reply before going to press.
Church pre-school to shut after 50 years
QUEENS Road Methodist Church Pre-School in Keynsham is to close this month after 50 years.
The managing trustees of the church said the decision has been taken due to falling numbers and changes in the childcare needs of parents.
In a statement, they said of the pre-school: “When it first opened its doors, it was staffed by volunteers from the church, and since those early days many hundreds of children, some of whom who have become parents or even grandparents of current children, took their first steps towards preparing themselves for primary education.
“Such was the reputation of the pre-school in helping children in terms of learning and social skills that it always had long waiting lists from those living in Keynsham and the surrounding areas.
“But sometimes good things must sometimes come to an end and that is what has happened with Queens Road Methodist Pre-School.”
The pre-school’s final sessions will be delivered on Tuesday July 22. Until now, it has been offering morning, afternoon and all-day sessions between 9am and 3pm Monday to Friday.
It has had about 50 children aged from three to five on its roll recently, but the parents of more than half of them had already indicated they would be withdrawing them at the end of term.
The trustees said staff who had been working there for many years had been closely involved in the decision-making process,
and letters had been sent to all parents about what was happening and why.
Reflection on the background to the closure, the trustees said that when the pre-school opened, there were few such facilities in the area and maintaining maximum numbers was not an issue. But this had changed dramatically in recent years.
“Our local primary schoolsChandag, Castle, St Kenya and soon to be joined by St Johnsall now have nursery classes, and parents are more likely to send their child to a pre-school that is part of the primary school that their child will be attending.
“In addition there are many more private pre-schools operating, many of them part of a conglomerate. All of these reflect the demand for a wider range of care, from before school and through to the early evening, that many working parents are now seeking. Our premises and facilities are simply not designed to accommodate this kind of support.
“As a result, we have fewer
children on our roll with fewer registering, some of whom are only attending for three hours a week. This has brought about a dramatic drop in our level of funding.
“Despite the efforts of our wonderful staff, some of whom have been with us for over 25 years, plus the best efforts of our church members and the preschool committee and supportive parents, the pre-school is running at a considerable financial loss, at a level which is impossible to sustain.”
The statement said that, over the years, the church had committed much time, resource and money to ensure that “this valuable asset to the community” was able to continue.
It said it did so in the same way that, for over 30 years, it supported open youth work at the Key Centre, part of the Methodist church’s premises in the High Street, which had to close in 2002 when the local authority reduced its annual grant aid.
Six staff will be affected by the
closure of the pre-school. It is not yet known what will happen to the premises, but the church envisages that they will be used for “new ventures of mission and support for the community.”
Its current Ofsted rating, following an inspection in 2023, is “good” in all areas, covering overall effectiveness, behaviours and attitude, personal development, and leadership and management.
The Rev John Carne, former minister of the church, said: “As a church we have always been proud of the support that for many years we have given to the children and young people in our community.
“It is therefore with a heavy heart that we have had to make this decision in relation to Queens Road Pre-School” .
Parents have expressed their sadness at the news on Facebook, with comments such as:
“Without doubt, the best pre school ever with the kindest, most caring team. We’ll always treasure the time our son spent at Queens Road.”
“So sad forever grateful to all the staff at the pre school that always went out of their way for my son. He loved every minute.”
“That is really really sad news. My children loved going to you and had many happy years there. I went there as well over 40 years ago! This is a real shame.”
“So sorry to hear this, you were the best preschool for our children!”
“Very sad, I attended around 1970 and my children in the 90’s, even my grandson for a while. So 3 generations of us. Great memories.”
Outcry at pay freeze for council workers
MORE than 100 council workers are having their pay frozen under a policy called “BOB” - a name a Keynsham councillor has called demeaning.
A new pay structure at Bath and North East Somerset Council lowers the pay for 106 roles.
People in roles facing pay cuts will have their pay frozen for three years, after the national pay award is applied, under the council’s pay protection policy. The pay structure will also mean a pay rise for 62% of the council’s 3,500 staff.
It is part of the council’s “Being Our Best” programme, which is often shortened to “BOB.” A council service to answer staff’s questions about how the pay cut will affect them is called “Ask BOB.”
Dave Biddleston, Labour councillor for Keynsham South, said: “I’m talking to residents in Keynsham that are affected by this and they are having to say they are losing money under “BOB.” And the acronym feels demeaning.”
Mr Biddleston was speaking at a protest organised by Unison outside a full meeting of Bath and North East Somerset Council on May 22.
A spokesperson for the B&NES branch of Unison said:
“Whilst we accept that some staff will see a pay increase, we cannot be expected to turn our backs on the members who are worse off because of BOB.
“Some members have shared the dire impact this is having on their mental health, how they feel undervalued and ignored, at a time when we have been told
we are to celebrate the council’s values of bold, empowered, supportive and transparent.”
About a third of the council’s IT department will be affected by the pay cut.
The new pay structure came into effect from June 1. People in roles for which the pay is being cut will have their pay frozen for three years at its current rate under the council’s pay protection policy.
If the new lower pay level for the role increases to more than the level a council worker’s pay was frozen at, they will be paid
the higher wage, and the council has said: “At the end of that period it is possible no individual will see an overall reduction in pay.”
But there is no guarantee that pay will catch up, and three years of frozen pay will still be a real terms pay cut, meaning it will gradually be worth less due to inflation.
A further 245 more council workers in the passenger transport and waste and recycling departments could also face pay cuts when the proposals for those departments are implemented separately in the coming weeks.
The new pay policy was unanimously approved by the council’s employment committee on May 14.
Will Godfrey, the council’s chief executive, said: “This agreement marks an important step towards establishing a fair, sustainable, and modern pay structure that is fit for purpose.” John Wimperis, Local Democracy Reporting Service
QUALITY KITCHEN MAKEOVERS
Plan to give banking hub a new home
THE former Halifax branch in Keynsham High Street looks set to become a permanent home for the town’s banking hub.
The Halifax – the town’s last bank – was originally due to close in January this year, but this was delayed until May to allow for a banking hub to be set up.
A temporary hub at MakeSpace on Riverside Square, opposite the leisure centre, was then opened by Cash Access UK, an organisation set up to protect access to cash across the country.
Now Cash Access UK is seeking planning permission from Bath and North East Somerset Council to set up signs, marketing posters and an ATM surround at the vacant Halifax premises at 53 High Street.
A spokesperson for Cash Access UK said plans for a permanent hub were progressing well but that timings could not yet be confirmed.
“The temporary hub at Makespace will remain open until the permanent hub is up and running. Once opened, the permanent hub will offer all the same services as the temporary hub.”
Customers of all major banks can carry out regular cash transactions at MakeSpace
on weekdays from 9am to 5pm, including cash withdrawals and deposits, as well as checking balances or paying bills.
The hub also offers a community banker service where customers can talk to their own bank in a private space about more complicated issues on the day their bank is in the hub.
Banks providing services at the hub are Halifax (Monday), NatWest (Tuesday), Lloyds (Wednesday), HSBC (Thursday) and Barclays (Friday).
Cash Access UK is a not-for-profit company owned and funded by major banks, including AIB NI, Bank of Ireland UK, Barclays, Danske Bank, HSBC UK, Lloyds Banking Group, NatWest Group, Santander, TSB and Virgin Money.
It has opened 150 banking hubs throughout the country in the past four years.
Cash Access UK states: “Cash is still important to millions of people in the UK. Between five and six million adults say they rely on cash in their day-to-day lives.
“Digital or online solutions don’t yet work for everyone all the time. We’ve found that banking hubs can make a real difference to individuals, small businesses and the communities they live in.”
The former Halifax bank branch in the High Street closed in January this year, leaving the town without a bank
Chew Valley 10k is a winner once again
THE 13th Chew Valley 10k was another sellout, with 635 runners taking on the scenic route around the countryside lanes of the Chew Valley.
Matthew Battensby (Bristol & West) finished first in 33:59, and this year’s fastest female was Caroline McAleese (Vegan Runners UK) in 39:27. Oliver Day (43:49) and Steph Hamilton-James (42:08) were the first juniors (15-18 years) to finish.
The event on June 1 brought out crowds of cheering supporters in Bishop Sutton and Hinton Blewett. Some youngsters even fired water pistols to help them cool off after the infamous Coley Hill climb.
A team of Chew Magna firefighters
Left, Chew Valley 10k runners get under way
Photo: Dynisma Right, delight at the finish:
Photo: photo-fit.com
(and others from the service) took on the challenging race in full firefighting gear, which weighs 29lbs.
They raised over £1,000 for Cancer Research and the Fire Fighters Charity, which supports the health and wellbeing of current and past firefighters.
Set up as a school fundraiser by parents from Bishop Sutton Primary School, the event now raises funds both for this and Chew Valley School Society. Each year, Bishop Sutton Pre-School provides teas and cakes, raising almost £1,000.
Besides the schools, the main beneficiaries are neonatal support charity NICU Support and the star* scheme, which enables children
n NEWS FROM THE METRO MAYOR
who have experienced adversity to build resilience through the help of the grassroots rugby community. Over £1,600 was donated by runners as they entered the race online.
This year saw a record 32 junior runners aged 15-18 enter the race, including 15 Chew Valley Rugby Club U15 players who raised over £2,000 for the charity star* scheme.
Many people are drawn to running via this community event, so there is always a mix of elite club runners and novice runners taking part, with every age group and ability in between well represented.
Denise Mellersh, Chew Valley 10k race director, said: “It is a collective community effort and we couldn’t do it without you all.”
n MESSAGE FROM POLICE AND CRIME COMMISSIONER
Improving support for victims of crime
Getting our region moving
IT’S been a busy first two months as your new Mayor, but I’ll continue my focus on transport for our region in this month’s column.
VICTIMS of crime and antisocial behaviour across Avon and Somerset now have access to enhanced, tailored support services.
We recently shared our exciting plans for free bus travel for all under-16s across Bath & North East Somerset, Bristol, South Gloucestershire and neighbouring North Somerset during the school summer holidays from July 19 to September 5. This includes WESTlink and WESTlocal: no registration or bus pass is needed, just hop on board!
I recently held a launch event to showcase a comprehensive suite of services, designed with victims of crime, to help them recover from its impacts.
That new investment from the West of England Mayoral Combined Authority could benefit 150,000 children and young people, and children from Perry Court E-ACT Academy who helped us announce it couldn’t have been more excited.
Just a month after being elected as your new mayor, we’ve set the wheels in motion like never before to start that journey. That’s thanks to record investment from the new government for our part of the world: £752 million.
Three-quarters of a billion pounds of new transport money can go a long way. It’s time to really start to catch up with other city regions.
It highlighted the support offered by Safe Link Plus, Young Victims Service, Avon and Somerset Victim Services, and Unseen, all of which provide holistic support ranging from advocacy and emotional care to practical advice, specialist interventions, and restorative justice.
It’s right that we help people save money and encourage greener travel, so I hope that local families can more easily have busloads of fun this summer.
The launch event brought together service providers, volunteers, and community members to celebrate the recommissioned services. It featured workshops, survivor contributions, and addresses from key figures, including Baroness Helen Newlove, Victims’ Commissioner for England and Wales.
For us and our families, this will mean better buses, more trains, and mass transit.
We can secure more brand-new electric buses and the infrastructure to go with them, while also continuing to seriously invest in fixing potholes, restoring bridges, and making active travel easier.
For many, the aftermath of crime is not just about what happened but about the ongoing struggle to regain a sense of safety and stability.
Working with Visit West and local councils, we will also be compiling a list of dozens of free activities for families and sharing on social media.
In these moments, the presence of skilled, compassionate professionals can make all the difference.
But we all know that it will take more than one summer to sort out our transport system –and get to where we want to be.
I’ve seen this first-hand since being elected, and it is truly inspiring.
As a West Country girl, I know the frustration: we’ve been stuck in the slow lane on transport for too long.
One of the most poignant moments of the day was the performance of Ghosts, a song written and performed by Georgie, a survivor supported by Safe Link. Her deeply moving lyrics and beautiful vocals made a big impression on everyone in the room.
We can also invest in our rail infrastructure, with an ambition for four trains per hour at stations across our growing suburban railways. New tracks and signalling improvements would allow more regular trains between existing and future stations, with stronger connections between two economic growth zones at Brabazon and Bristol Temple Quarter.
That is why ensuring victims receive the help they need, when they need it, is a core priority in my Police and Crime Plan.
The event also celebrated the collaborative effort behind the services being launched, with a wide range of providers like One25, Resolve West, Victim Support, The Lighthouse, Stand Against Racism & Inequality, and more.
This new money will empower our region to start to fill the gaps in our transport network. It’s time to give local people proper alternatives to their cars.
We can cut the congestion that’s holding
With Commissioner Clare
communities, whether that’s at public forums, visiting local businesses, or engaging with community organisations.
Through my visits, I’ve seen the incredible work being undertaken across the Avon and Somerset force area: innovative projects tackling crime, organisations supporting victims, working with young people to build their futures and partnership working to make neighbourhoods safer.
back our full potential. Trams, metrobuses, rail, light rail, and guided buses are all on the table to make that a reality.
Over the years, as a region, we have talked too much about mass transit and delivered too little. We can deliver an overall system that people can rely on, even if we all know that can’t be built overnight.
These services, supported by the OPCC, NHS England, Bristol City Council, Avon and Somerset Police, and the Ministry of Justice, reflect a long-term dedication to providing independent and effective support
I recently had the pleasure to visit the Wheels Project, where I saw young people in action learning motor vehicle studies.
When the first 74 electric buses in Bristol are on the road this autumn, I look forward to sharing a joined-up transport vision for our region. Working with the new government, and with genuine collaboration between local councils, it’s time for real change.
They run four, providing with practical teamwork, communication and understanding issues.
Reducing a priority in my The Wheels been working Gloucestershire Partnership (VRP) To find out role, share concerns or join one of forums, visit avonandsomerset-pcc.gov.uk.
The project supports young people between 14-18 years of age, struggling in education or with specialist educational needs from Bath, Bristol Gloucestershire.
Metro Mayor Helen Godwin writes for the Voice
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Mo Jones & Jimmy Hewson
‘No gap’ pledge to families on respite care
RESPITE care home Newton House will stay open until at least September 2026.
Bath and North East Somerset Council promises that families will face no gap in support while the service is re-tendered.
The facility in Bath is the only place in the area where people with the most severe care needs who live with their families can access overnight respite care, a short stay away from home so their full-time carers can have a break.
Keynsham window cleaner Richard Franklin, whose son Ryan Probert attends Newton House, raised the alarm on Facebook after the council and care provider Dimensions, which runs the home, announced in November 2024 that it would be closing as it had become unaffordable.
He launched a petition now signed by almost 3,000 people and took the issue to the council with the support of his local councillor David Biddleston (Keynsham South, Labour).
Leading councillors had been unaware of the decision to close Newton House until Mr Franklin shared the news.
After an outcry from parents, the closure was put on hold until the end of January 2026.
Now the council has said that Newton House will remain open until the end of September 2026 while it puts the contract for a replacement service out to tender.
Council cabinet member for adult services Alison Born said: “We know how important Newton House is to the families
Campaigning parents (left to right) Derek Greenman, Julie Franklin, Richard Franklin, and Wendy Lucas
Top left, Ryan Probert, of Keynsham, who is Julie and Richard’s son
Top right, Rhiannon Lucas, daughter of Wendy
who use it. We are committed to keeping that support going while we work on a long-term plan.
“We’re grateful to the families and carers who’ve worked with us, and to Dimensions for agreeing to keep the service running until next September. This gives families some peace of mind.”
“I also want to reassure everyone that future respite care
will stay within Bath and North East Somerset, and that the needs of families will be at the heart of every decision. There won’t be any gaps in support.”
Four family representatives were part of the council working group which recommended that Dimensions continue running the service until a new provider could be found.
Wendy Lucas, whose
daughter Rhiannon is 28 and has attended Newton House a couple of nights a week for 10 years, said: “The process has gone some way to rebuild the trust that was shattered last Christmas.”
Speaking at a meeting of the council’s scrutiny panel on children, adults, health and wellbeing on June 16, Ms Lucas said parents understood that the council needed to balance its budget.
She said: “We realise that contracts must go out to test the market, that we cannot hang on to Newton House forever. But it has to be hung on to until that process has been worked through.
“We cannot have a gap in services. We cannot survive as families with a protracted gap where we don’t have access to respite.”
She said that if a new respite care home replaced Newton House, the transition would need to be carefully managed.
She said: “These are not the type of young adults you can simply pick up on a Friday and drop somewhere new on a Monday. There are behavioural issues that will take time to address to get these young adults used to any new provider.”
Council officers said that a new provider would be secured at least three to four months before Newton House closes in September 2026.
A meeting to update all 17 families who use Newton House is due to be held this month. It will be discussed again by the scrutiny panel in September.
John Wimperis, Local Democracy Reporting Service
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Ban on single-use vapes is welcomed
THE NEW national ban on single-use vapes has been welcomed by Bath and North East Somerset Council.
The council’s trading standards team recently successfully secured a closure order for Keynsham Mini Market in the High Street over the sale of illegal vapes and tobacco.
The government’s action, which came into force on June 1, is aimed at reducing the environmental impact and fire risk caused by such vapes.
Vapes are made of plastics that do not break down in the environment, are often littered and introduce harmful substances into the ecosystem. They can also cause fires if not recycled properly.
Research by Material Focus shows that, nationally, an estimated 8.2 million vapes are thrown away every week or recycled incorrectly, which amounts to 13 per second.
B&NES Council is reminding residents to place used vapes in loosely tied clear plastic
bags on top of their green recycling boxes or visit www. recycleyourelectricals.org.uk to find the nearest collection point. Batteries from rechargeable vapes should be removed and recycled with other batteries.
Traders are reminded of their legal duty to provide collection points for waste vapes to their customers and that all waste vapes should be collected by a registered vape recycling service.
Councillor Manda Rigby, cabinet member for communications and civic services, said: “We welcome
the single-use vape ban, which will reduce the amount of environmental waste and damage to our ecosystem. However, the challenges posed by these products will remain.
“Vapes placed in bags of rubbish or left loose in recycling containers can lead to fires, so please leave them in a clear plastic bag on top of your green box.
“Illegal vapes are unregulated and pose a risk to consumers. Our trading standards team will continue to work hard to stop illegal vapes being sold,
including making checks on local retailers.”
Bath Magistrates Court imposed a three-month closure order on Keynsham Mini Market on May 8.
The order followed a large number of complaints being received and investigations undertaken into activities at the premises, which were found to be contributing to anti-social behaviour in the area.
For the period of closure, only those who are named residents and authorised persons are permitted to enter the premises.
OPEN MORNING AND EVENING
Developing confident, respectful and successful young people
Visitors always comment on the purposeful, caring and happy ethos of the school, so what better way for you to find out about our vision and values than to come and experience the for yourselves?
Open
Morning - Tuesday 1st July starts at 9.15am-10.45am
No pre-registration required.
We are delighted to confirm that, we will be offering tours to students and families who are interested in joining Wellsway School in September 2026. Members of the senior leadership team will welcome you from 9.15am in the Mendip Hall; you will then be able to tour the school with students.
The morning will provide an opportunity to see the school in action; to visit curriculum areas and discuss the Wellsway School experience with students and staff. Please be advised that the morning finishes at 10.45am but the last tour will depart at 10.20am.
Open Evening - Thursday 18th September Headteachers Introduction starts at 5.30pm
The Headteachers introduction will be repeated at 6.15pm and 7.00pm to ensure all our visitors have the opportunity to hear about our unique community. Families will then be able to freely explore our facilities and will be guided throughout by our wonderful young people. A variety of activities will take place throughout the evening - showcasing all aspects of life at Wellsway School.
Police dogs sniffed out vapes and tobacco at Keynsham Mini Market in an operation before the closure order
Flourish named one of best places to work in UK
Flourish Foodhall & Kitchen, which has a shop in Saltford, has been named as one of the best places to work in the UK by the Sunday Times.
The company, along with wholesale partner Cotswold Fayre, has been accredited as one of the top medium businesses for the second consecutive year.
Flourish’s first site, Glenavon Farm, opened in Saltford in 2021 as a “people and planet-focused” destination to eat and shop.
Since then, Flourish has expanded into home and lifestyle in 2022, a pottery painting barn in 2023 and transformed Farleigh Road Farm Shop at Norton St Philip into Flourish at Farleigh Road in just four months, before its opening in November last year.
In March this year, Flourish opened its own production kitchen supplying both sites with homemade scotch eggs, sausage rolls, sponge cakes, cookies and more using local ingredients.
The Sunday Times chooses the winners from the results of an employee happiness survey conducted through the WorkL app.
The survey celebrates the UK’s top employers – more than 500 organisations
across industries and scale. With a score of 79% average happiness, Flourish says its reflect the company’s commitment to putting people and planet before profit.
The survey also revealed a score of 85% in wellbeing, empowerment, instilling pride and job satisfaction. Flourish provides pay above the national living wage, private healthcare and a 30% staff discount to more than 100 employees across both its sites.
Paul Castle, Flourish managing director, said: “To be listed by the Sunday Times along with Cotswold Fayre for the second year running is a huge accolade as we continue to put people and planet before profit.”
Cheers! Top Gear star Richard to visit store
RICHARD Hammond
– host of Top Gear and The Grand Tour – will pay a visit to Flourish Foodhall & Kitchen in Saltford on Friday July 4. He will meet customers at the Glenavon Farm site on the A4 Bath Road and sign bottles of his new spirits to celebrate their launch.
Richard has collaborated with Hawkridge Distillers to create his own Ratio London Dry Gin and Iron Ridge English Single Malt Whisky. The gin features locally sourced ingredients such as bilberries, wild gorse flowers and nettles, blended with local honey.
The whisky’s name comes from a hillside ridge visible from Richard’s home in the Lake District.
Flourish is the first retailer to stock Richard’s new products, acquired through its wholesale partner, Cotswold Fayre. Flourish was also the first retailer to stock Jeremy Clarkson’s ‘Diddly Squat Farm’ range in January this year.
Richard Hammond will be at Glenavon Farm in Saltford from 11am. He will visit Flourish in Farleigh Road, Norton St Philip, Bath, from 2.30pm the same day.
Firm seeks approval to extend warehouse
KEYNSHAM company IJ McGill Transport is seeking to extend a warehouse at its base in Avon Mill Lane.
The firm has depots in Devon, Buckinghamshire, Midlands and Manchester but runs its UKwide transport company from Keynsham.
The former Keynsham Paper Mill site was used for 20 years by DS Smith as a paper recycling depot until IJ McGill took over in 2019.
The company has now submitted a planning application to Bath and North East Somerset Council to extend a warehouse it built in 2022 and demolish some other buildings to improve the layout of the site.
Its planning statement says: “Since Covid and with the impact of Brexit and the war in Ukraine, together with other global issues that are affecting supply routes to the UK and beyond, UK companies are making greater use of storage to ensure that they have a good supply of stock for their customers. This has seen a
growth in the warehouse storage business for IJMcGill Transport Ltd with the new warehouse that was built in 2022 is now full to capacity.”
Goods for storage arrive on site in shipping containers for unloading and transfer into the warehouse.
The firm says the extra capacity it proposes would help alleviate local councillors’ concern about the loss of warehousing in the Keynsham area.
An “extensive appraisal” of the site has been undertaken to establish the best location for the
extra warehouse space.
“It is understood that a proposal for a new link road to the north of the site is back under consideration, although no details of the proposed route are currently available. This is one of the major constraints that need to be considered when developing the site.
“As the actual position of the link road has yet to be determined, it was clear that to avoid delay any further expansion needed to be made to the southern section of the site and in that respect an extension to the 2022 warehouse would be
the best option, even though this will require the demolition of part of the old paper mill that is currently used for warehousing and offices.”
It is envisaged that the warehouse extension would increase the workforce by 10. It is currently 116.
Three people who commented on the planning application raised concerns about noise and traffic.
One said expanding the premises would result in more large vehicles using roads not designed for them.
Another said people living south of the nearby railway line were already affected by the beeping of reversing lorries early in the morning and late at night. They suggested that planning control of noise and vehicle movements should be included, particularly between the hours of 11pm and 7am.
The deadline for public comments was due to pass on July 3. The council’s target decision date is August 26.
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Wombles are the pick of the festival!
THE volunteer litter-picking group Keynsham Wombles is gearing up to keep the 2025 Keynsham Music Festival as spick and span as ever.
The Wombles, designated litter pickers for the festival since 2014, have become a familiar sight at the event, whose Big Weekend this year takes place in the Memorial Park on July 5 and 6.
“I like to think that our music festival is one of the tidiest in the country,” says ‘Chief Womble’ Erica Davies, who founded the organisation in 2012.
“With 40 slots to cover across the whole event, it’s a big undertaking for us as a group, but our volunteers are relentlessly keen, and the vast majority of festivalgoers do their very best to help us in our mission.”
In addition to roaming the festival grounds hunting for stray litter, the Keynsham Wombles will also be sorting the collected bags behind the scenes to ensure as much of it as possible gets recycled.
They’ll also have a stall at the event, where visitors can learn about their efforts and discover how they can get involved in keeping their streets or areas tidy.
“The festival is a great opportunity for community outreach,” Erica continues. “Our wider mission is to shift people’s mindsets about litter - from being something that’s
just ‘there’ to something that’s out of place and shouldn’t be.
“By showing how much more pleasant the festival - and our community - becomes without litter, we aim to encourage everyone to play their part.”
This past year, the group’s ambitious goals received a welcome boost from a small team of Wombles who have stepped up to assist Erica with organising litter picks, public awareness, education, social media, and the website - along with, perhaps most importantly, cake-baking duties.
“I was so heartened by how many people came forward,” says Erica. “I must admit, it’s great to turn up to an event and not be in charge. I can focus on picking litter and enjoy some cake afterward!”
As well as recruiting new volunteers, the Keynsham Wombles are also making an appeal to past volunteers who have been allocated litter-picking equipment but whose circumstances no longer allow them to use it as often as they would like.
Anyone with Wombles-issued litterpicking equipment gathering dust in their shed or garage is encouraged to get in touch via the contact form on keynshamwombles. org to arrange collection or drop it off at the stall during the music festival. l Festival sculpture: Page 17
Volunteers from the Keynsham Wombles proudly display a haul of collected litter
ON THE BEAT
You can help us tackle speeding drivers
AN ISSUE often raised in and around Keynsham is that of vehicles speeding. We have various ways of dealing with offenders , one of which is to ask local people to get involved through the Community SpeedWatch scheme.
Under the scheme, after suitable location is identified, volunteers operate a speed detection device and record information on offenders. Then the police contact the drivers concerned to advise them of the offences they have committed and also deal with repeat offenders.
These schemes have seen great success across our force area. If you are interested in supporting one of them in and around Keynsham, please contact with our beat team through the community pages of the Avon and Somerset Constabulary website.
We need a pool of people to support this initiative, so we are
with PC James Evans
looking for several like-minded people to help.
n Last month, we were pleased to be able to return a stolen bike to its owner. This was only possible because the owner had taken comprehensive photos of the bike which showed its recent condition as well as modifications the owner had made.
I would suggest keeping photos not only of cycles but anything of value that could be targeted, so that if we recover it we can return it.
We are still suffering a large
number of motorbike thefts across the force area. I would suggest using the best-quality locks you can afford and, if possible, to lock the motorbike to a strong static object.
Thieves simply walk off with bikes and then hotwire them at a different location. Quite often these bikes are hidden in plain sight, so if a bike appears at a location that is unusual, please let us know, as it is better for us to check it out and offer some crime prevention advice to the owners than have a stolen bike continually used.
n We still get reports of items being stolen after they are advertised through marketplaces such as Facebook and eBay. Would-be buyers make contact and ask to view the item with no intention of coming at a prescribed time and date, but instead attend at their leisure and try to steal items. They often use fake accounts to make this contact, so it is best to do some
research on these accounts to see if they are genuine.
If you are not sure, then meet the person at a public location and do not share your home address details.
n We have been out and about in the last few months at our busier locations, to meet people and catch up about what is going on in the local area, and find out how we can be more effective.
The old style of beat surgery was struggling to gain public interest, so we are looking to do more pop-up style events in busy locations to try to encourage more interaction.
We hope this will enable us to reach more of the public who live in the area, giving them the opportunity for more face-toface contact, which in turn we hope will help us to support the local area better. I will be monitoring how this works and hope to be able to report on its success.
n LETTERS Letters for publication can be sent to news@keynshamvoice.co.uk or by post to Letters, Keynsham Voice, 16 Ashmead Business Centre, Ashmead Road, Keynsham, BS31 1SX. The editor reserves the right to edit your letter.
Our new recycling centre is a boon
Cllr Chris Warren (Independents for B&NES) astonishingly claimed in your last edition about the Keynsham Waste and Recycling Centre that “there was nothing actually wrong with the (old) tip. Communities had been using it for years with no issues.”
The reality was that the old site was cramped, physically challenging for all but the most able, with limited opportunities for re-use and recycling. We all remember the queuing, especially at weekends.
The new, state-of-the-art waste and recycling facility at Worlds End Lane, Keynsham, was opened by B&NES Council in 2023.
The expanded site, four times the area of the old, decrepit facility, now provides local residents and traders with vastly improved waste and recycling facilities.
The new site has enhanced bio-diversity with the planting of meadows and trees, and provides for greater efficiency, lower fleet mileage, and carbon reduction with the use of solar panels and enhanced recycling.
Bath continues to have its own waste and recycling centre which next year moves to a new site at Locksbrook Road.
At Keynsham, we have additional benefits such as a re-use shop and an MOT centre available to the public. It is not, as claimed by Cllr Warren, a regional facility. If it was, why are users asked to produce proof of address?
The recycling lorry fleet previously operated from a cramped site nearby in Ashmead Road, and was re-located around the corner to the new site. This meant no increase in traffic movements on local roads.
The “black bin” waste fleet was also relocated to the new site. The black bin lorries now simply head in the opposite direction to when they were based in Bath.
Indeed, the transfer station moving to Worlds End Lane means that the articulated lorries transferring consolidated black bin waste on to Avonmouth no longer have to travel through Saltford from Bath as in the past.
Lorries from the new transfer station at Keynsham take waste onwards to Avonmouth along the Keynsham bypass and ring road without any need to go through Saltford or other single-lane local roads. So Cllr Warren’s assertions about big increases in refuse
Resurfaced pavement is still a hazard
The article about proposals to pedestrianise Keynsham town centre in last month’s Voice
one-way system proved very unpopular due to being an alleged trip hazard. However, safety now seems to be much better following modifications, and the pedestrian experience could be enhanced with more crossing points.
BathNES draft local plan proposes more than 3,000 new dwellings around Keynsham and Saltford, and central government now demands many more in the next five years.
Keynsham’s new waste and recycling centre provides vastly improved facilities, says Cllr Duncan Hounsell, above
trucks passing through Saltford are spurious.
The collection lorries leave the Keynsham depot around 7am and they return from their first trip of the day between 10am and 11am. The operatives take their breaks and go back out about 11.30am and return from about 1pm. All are generally back by 2.45pm. Thus, the lorry movements avoid peak times on the main roads.
The recycling trucks used to have to refuel at the filling station on the A4 near Saltford which caused some congestion there. This no longer happens as there are fuel tanks at the new site and the capacity to have an all-electric fleet in the future.
All in all, the new waste and recycling centre is a boon for residents in my ward. I have not received a single complaint
about the new facility or a single complaint about any perceived negative impact on Saltford.
The facility is widely popular, shortlisted for a construction award, and a good example of investment in our area by the Lib Dem run B&NES Council, which clearly would not have happened if Cllr Warren had anything to do with it.
Cllr Duncan Hounsell (B&NES, Lib Dem, Saltford ward)
Don’t ignore bigger picture on traffic
Due to ring-fenced “regeneration” money coming available, full pedestrianisation of Keynsham High Street is now back on the cards. A “vibrant” town centre with shady trees, people shopping and socialising is certainly an attractive prospect.
The current contraflow cycle lane and one-way traffic was trialled in 2017–2018 to bring emissions within legal limits. The preceding comprehensive vehicle movement study by Bath and North East Somerset Council traffic engineers showed full pedestrianisation would cause excessive congestion in the adjacent roads. High Street closures during implementation confirmed it!
The “expertly designed”
There has been no major road building anywhere near Keynsham since the bypass was built in 1964, and the Avon Ring Road connection at Hicks Gate in 1994 (apart from traffic lights and road markings).
In fact, the whole of BathNES is seriously short of major roads to alleviate congestion. Bus services connect to town and city centres but don’t serve people heading anywhere else. BathNES active travel proposals are wildly overoptimistic.
Keynsham is notorious for its narrow roads, and traffic barriers including the Chew Valley, River Avon, Brunel’s historic railway and A4 bypass. Five radial feeds connect with the town centre: Wellsway, Charlton Road, Keynsham Road, Bristol Road and Bath Road. Already congested, they will suffer significantly more pressure from the proposed extra housing plus the repercussions from the proposed High Street closure.
Focussing on the High Street pedestrianisation in isolation is completely short-sighted. We cannot afford to spend money on it (let alone extending it to Keynsham Road) – then have to take it out again!
Beforehand we need comprehensive verified traffic flow studies for High Street and Keynsham/ Saltford areas that allow for projected growth. Otherwise, Keynsham will seize up. Clive Honeychurch
n LETTERS
Pollution will just increase elsewhere
Here we go again. A council that spent millions to part-pedestrianise Keynsham High Street - which resulted in terrible building delays and accidents, and now severe congestion and pollution on Bath Hill etc during peak hours - is trying to spend even more money, which I thought the council were short of (‘Pedestrianisation idea to boost town centre’, June issue).
What for? Yes, High Street pollution will be down but elsewhere will substantially increase.
Bath and North East Somerset Council are not really looking for public suggestions as the amount of time for us to comment is too short. Like last time, the council will interpret the results to match what they want. Every house in Keynsham should be sent a survey paper to return.
Are the weir changes really necessary?
David Whalley, Keynsham
High Street needs proper shops again
Your June issue suggests BANES Council currently claim there is an opportunity to change the High Street to create a better placeanother change to our High Street dictated by the council! For once I strongly agree and have some suggestions, although BANES will doubtless regard them as far too outlandish.
When I moved to Keynsham, as a young schoolboy, the town was well managed by Keynsham Urban District Council. Then the pointyheads of lacklustre Avon moved in, followed, in 1996, by BANES, each managing to utterly destroy the community feel of the town.
All that had successfully existed for centuries, bending slightly as required in order to meet social and commercial needs, was swept away in the name of modernisation
Removing park weir is a bad idea
and progress. So, what ideas might any local now have? I cannot answer for all, but many longstanding residents I talk to feel as I do.
Perhaps the council should encourage local residents to venture out to the High Street, making a start by encouraging shops selling the merchandise people desire back to the town.
Interestingly, people tend to shop in places where they know the goods they want are likely to be available, the very reason shops sprang up on High Streets in the first place.
David Cameron’s Cafe Culture was never going to work in Britain as it does in Europe, and Keynsham is no exception. Bring back proper shops. Lower their business rates to that of Bath – or lower still. Discourage charity shops, pound shops and chav shops. Encourage
an enhanced shopping experience – and make that experience enjoyable.
To such end the High Street should be properly policed. Get the cops out on the streets and clear the town centre of the feral brats now marauding with impunity.
Offer free parking, particularly for those visiting for short periods. Free parking successfully existed before the council swamped our streets by day with their workers’ cars, filling all parking spaces, necessitating a charging system. Above all, reduce the current congestion and confusion caused by the ludicrous one-way system.
Keynsham and its High Street worked well before it was ‘improved’. It could work well again and to everyone’s interest, save perhaps a few ‘enlightened’ council mandarins.
Colin Brook
n NEWS
Free summer bus travel for children
CHILDREN under the age of 16 can travel for free on buses in the West of England region this summer.
Around 150,000 children aged five to 15 years old will be able to hop on a bus in Bath and North East Somerset, Bristol, South Gloucestershire and North Somerset without paying.
The initiative - paid for by the West of England Combined Authority - runs from the start of the school holidays on July 19 and runs until September 5.
Helen Godwin, the new West of England mayor, said: “We really want all families across the West of England to have something to look forward to this summer. We know that times are quite tough at the moment, a lot of families are struggling and going on holiday isn’t an option for everyone.
Bus travel for children aged from five to 15 is currently capped at £1 per journey.
Children under five already travel for free on most services in the West of England. The initiative will be paid for using some of the £13.5 million bus grant funding from the Department for Transport.
Alex Seabrook, Local Democracy Reporting Service
Dial-a-ride roadshow
KEYNSHAM & District Diala-Ride (KaDDaR) will take a vehicle to various locations in the town over the coming weeks as a roadshow to promote its services.
People are encouraged to visit the KaDDaR team at Keynsham Music Festival from 10am to 7pm on Sunday July 6, the Ashton Way car park on Saturday July 19, 10am-4pm, and the Tesco car park on Saturday August 2, 10am-4pm.
The community transport scheme provides a door-to-door service from Monday to Friday (except bank holidays) between 8am to 6pm and is run by local people. It has no set timetable as it operates a flexible service.
For more information, call 01225 395321 or email Admin@ keynshamdialaride.co.uk
VOICE reader Andrew Harrison took this photo of a Second World War Lancaster bomber as it flew over Manor Road Community Woodlands in Keynsham on May 31. It was taken during the Great Vintage Fly-in
Weekend, held at the Cotswold Airport near Kemble in Gloucestershire. Andrew also sent us this photo of a Desert Wheatear spotted around Somerdale on June 15. Our thanks to Andrew for sharing them with us.
Have your say on new fashion museum
KEYNSHAM residents are being invited to help shape the future of the new Fashion Museum Bath.
This summer, Bath and North East Somerset Council is holding a series of dropin events across that will offer a first look at early-stage designs for the museum and the reimagined public space around it.
One of those sessions will be held at Keynsham Library on July 10 from 10am to 4pm. Everyone is welcome and no preregistration required. Visitors will be able to preview the designs and share their thoughts.
Bath Fashion museum closed in 2022 when the National Trust took back the Assembly Rooms, where it had been for nearly 60 years.
The new Fashion Museum Bath will be located in the Grade II listed Old Post Office building in New Bond Street, in the heart of the city’s Milson Quarter.
Larger and fully accessible exhibition spaces will span two floors, with new learning and event spaces and a café and shop. A courtyard garden at the centre of the building will be free and open to all, and will explore the connections between fashion and nature.
Outside, plans are also under way to transform the streets and public spaces around the museum, making them more welcoming and accessible. A new public
square will also be created, featuring trees, seating, and space for events.
Thanks to a founding grant from the West of England Mayoral Combined Authority and development funding from the National Lottery Heritage Fund, B&NES Council is now moving forward with development plans and designs for both the museum and the public spaces around it and are keen to seek ideas from the public to help shape the museum’s best possible future.
Helen Godwin, the new Mayor of the West of England, said: “Fashion Museum Bath will
A sustainable summer NEWS
No
Stay
The Old Post Office building will be the fashion museum’s new home Image: 6a Architects
Simone Rocha, dress of the year 2023
Image:
Fashion Museum Bath
be a unique jewel in the crown of the Milsom Quarter regeneration in the historic centre of Bath.
“Local people will be at the heart of these exciting plans. I know that Bath & North East Somerset Council are looking forward to hearing everyone’s ideas and suggestions.”
For those unable to attend the Keynsham drop-in event in person, information will also be available online from July 19.
Visit www.fashionmuseum.co.uk to explore the plans and complete the survey to have your say.
CHANGING FOR THE BETTER
It’s the end of June as I’m writing this, and summer is well and truly here. Lots of friends and family are jetting off to foreign climes, and it got me thinking – what does a sustainable summer holiday look like? Here are a few ideas…
First the big one – flying. If your destination is accessible by train and the journey isn’t that much longer than by plane, why not consider that instead? Last year, my partner made it from Bordeaux to Keynsham in eight hours. If you decide it’s easier to fly, perhaps consider taking trains, buses or bikes when you’re at your destination instead of hiring a car.
Hotels and holiday accommodation account for 2% of global emissions. So, why not choose to stay somewhere that’s eco-friendly? The EU’s eco-label is a guarantee of a hotel or campsite’s commitment to sustainability.
If that’s not available, ask whether your accommodation uses energy-efficient lighting, avoids single-use packaging and disposable cutlery, if it has bikes to hire, or sources ingredients locally. And you can do your bit too, by not asking for your towels and bed linen
to be changed every day. Sustainable packing’s also a thing! Take a reusable water bottle for on-the-fly hydration. You could even bring your own stainlesssteel straw and cutlery for picnics. Natural shampoo bars are great for travelling, as are refillable bottles for lotions and potions.
Think green when you’re out and about. In nature reserves, stay on paths to protect wildlife and biodiversity. Avoid using excess water, and don’t use disposable barbecues when the undergrowth is dry. There’s been a huge increase in wildfires across the UK and Europe, which as well as being catastrophic for wildlife and people also creates vast amounts of greenhouse gases. Ultimately, sustainable tourism isn’t just about doing our bit for the planet. It’s about engaging more deeply with the place we visit, supporting local people, nature and culture. By making our holidays more climate-friendly, we can have a better experience overall. So, enjoy whatever holiday plans you have, and give nature a break too with a little climate-friendly planning.
Elizabeth Willitts
Young people’s art takes flight at festival
TEN young people in Bath and North East Somerset who may be vulnerable to child exploitation have created a sculpture for Glastonbury Festival and Keynsham Music Festival.
The welded butterfly sculpture with a birdcage design was made possible by Arcadia Reach CIC and funding secured by Keynsham Music Festival, with the support of the Willow Project.
The Willow Project is a partnership between Bath and North East Somerset Council and the Avon and Somerset Police and Crime Commissioner to identify children and young people who may be at risk from factors outside of the home and provide early help.
The funding was used to offer a welding course for 10 young people who were vulnerable to harm in the community, with the training provided by the Bristol-based creative metalwork studio Women Teaching Fabrication.
After going on display at Glastonbury Festival, the sculpture was due to move to Keynsham Music Festival on July 5.
“Bringing together the artistry, technical skills and support required for such an ambitious project was always going to be a challenge, but it led to working with some of the most generous and skilled people in the industry and, thanks to the continual support from the Willow Project, we were able to bring the project to life with 10 young people taking part.
“Seeing the completed butterfly for the first time was amazing, but the real joy was seeing the young people enjoy the experience during the workshop sessions and grow in confidence with their newly learned skills.
“I am so grateful to the Roper Family Foundation, Quartet Foundation, Nisbet Trust and Curo for their financial support of the project –it wouldn’t have been possible without them.”
Councillor Paul May, cabinet member for children’s services, said: “It is wonderful to see this beautiful and expressive sculpture by our young people.
“Congratulations to everyone involved and
to Keynsham Music Festival for initiating and managing the project.”
Mike May, chair of Keynsham Music Festival, said: “From a chance conversation with a group of young people at last year’s festival grew the idea of trying to build an art sculpture – now called the Butterfly Project.
The Willow Project provides preventative child exploitation support services to vulnerable children aged between 11-18 in B&NES at a lower risk of criminal and sexual exploitation and who do not meet thresholds for statutory intervention. The support is offered within the school setting. There are also support groups for parents and carers.
BEYOND INFINITY
KEYNSHAM MEMORIES
with Keynsham & Saltford Local History Society
The Keynsham Carnival was a feature of town life in the 1970s through to the 1990s. The annual parade of floats, bands and entertainers ended at Somerdale, where there were stalls and amusements. This picture shows the scene in about 1995, with the old Fry Club building on the left.
“Suchlovelypeopleandsuch afantasticplace.Highlyrecommend mademesorelaxed. Justgreatpeople”.
Kart team on fast track to success
A GROUP of teenagers from Keynsham put their skills and teamwork to the test at a national karting final.
The youngsters raced the go-kart, which they built themselves, on one of the UK’s top circuits on June 14.
The students had been working on the kart at afterschool workshops since February. Then they tested its speed, reliability and design at a trial run at the Whilton Mill track in Northamptonshire.
In the grand final, they went head-to-head against teams from other schools. Four of the group drove the kart, with the others acting as pit crew.
The team finished sixth out of 17, which was an impressive result at their first attempt.
The project at IKB Academy brought together 10 boys from Wellsway, Broadlands and Sir Bernard Lovell schools. The students, aged 13 and 14, who are all set to join IKB in September, were supported by two sixthform engineering students at the academy, which specialises in science, technology, engineering and maths subjects (STEM).
Sponsorship from manufacturing firm Apex Pumps in Staple Hill, Bristol, and Bath software developer DevMonki Solutions provided vital funding for parts, tools, and materials.
The team testing the kart for the national final andbelow - in action on race day
IKB head of school Peter Headeach said creating the highperformance kart had given the group invaluable experience in STEM, teamwork, and project management.
“It has been a triumph of commitment, creativity and hands-on problem solving,” he said.
“Every part of the processfrom initial set-up to the final test runs - was led by students, supported by staff, and powered
by a shared passion for design and innovation.
“The students, ably led by our sixth-form STEM ambassadors, have shown incredible dedication and gained real-world engineering experience.
“They have demonstrated not only the kart’s capabilities but also their own skills in analysis, troubleshooting, and collaborative working— hallmarks of future engineers and innovators.
KEYNSHAM AND SALTFORD LOCAL HISTORY SOCIETY
Discovery of the Keynsham Jelly Apple
IN 1903, the Long Ashton Research Station was established with the help of the Smyth family of Ashton Court to aid the growing of apples and production of cider in the West Country. Old maps show that small orchards were then commonplace in and around Keynsham, as in many parts of the Somerset.
At a Bristol conference in June 1912, involving scientists from the research station, much discussion took place regarding a “nameless apple” whose great value for cidermaking was much extolled.
This apple was said to have been discovered by a member of staff during his wanderings in local orchards, and it was stated that only one tree was known, but that others were being propagated from it as rapidly as possible. This was reported in the Bath Chronicle and led to a Mr T Sherwood Smith of Clifton recording the fact that he was the true discoverer of the apple and setting out the story.
He had moved to Keynsham in 1884 and purchased the house on Dapps Hill that had previously belonged to Sir Frederick Armstead Steele, until his death in 1876, and then to his daughters. The property had been known as Grove Cottage, but Sherwood Smith renamed it The Pynes.
Among several very large apple trees in the grounds alongside the River Chew, he found one especially beautiful tree, but could not find its variety. His description reads as follows:
“Its age would be quite thirty years; its shape that of an enormous umbrella; its branches long, low and horizontal. When in blossom, later than the rest, it was very handsome, and still
more so when covered with red apples about the size of hens’ eggs. The first year’s crop was over four sacks, rather too acid for eating,
and requiring much sugar when cooked, but yielding a rich pink syrup.
Steve
“As I had no use for such, I sold
Car pets
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them to a local cider maker for 10s [50p], after sending some to several friends, one of whom made jam and jelly of such a quality and colour I had never seen equalled.
“The next year the cider maker returned, and on being told that I had discovered a better use for them and about ten times the price he gave, candidly informed me he never made such cider in his life, as they produced, and mixing onefourth with ordinary fruit greatly increased the value of the lot.”
Sherwood Smith did his best to discover the name of variety, sending samples to various experts. A friend grew a tree from a pip and planted it in his garden, where it flourished. He drew the attention of the manager of the research station to the tree and its location, no doubt leading to the interest at the conference.
Finally, he reaffirmed that he was the true discoverer of this wonder apple, that the place of its origin, so far as can be traced, was Keynsham and he named it “the Keynsham Jelly Apple”, saying that he hoped it might be extensively cultivated for making jelly, in the quality of which it had no competitor.
The Keynsham Jelly Apple does not appear on a modern list of 156 Somerset apple varieties. So, we have to conclude that, despite the initial enthusiasm, the name did not survive and, as far as I can tell from exploring the south end of Keynsham Park, neither did the original tree. Let me know if you can add to the story.
(This story was discovered by Sue Tatford, the society’s archivist, when researching the history of The Pynes.) Richard Dyson
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no hidden
the price quoted is the price you pay Tel: 07860 441776 or 0117 2565994
There are no photographs of the Keynsham Jelly Apple, but it was smaller than modern apples, probably like a large crab apple as shown here Photo: Wikimedia Creative Commons, author Wehha
The Pynes in 1966. The history society has no photographs of the house in good condition
Football coaches score for hospice
THREE intrepid coaches from Fry’s Junior Football Club in Keynsham went the extra mile to support Children’s Hospice South West (CHSW).
Mark Grinter, Tom Burns and Andy Glover walked 227 miles from Land’s End to Somerdale Pavilion between June 7 and 14.
Covering about 30 miles a day, the walkers stopped at each of the three CHSW hospices along the way - Little Harbour near St Austell, Little Bridge House near Barnstaple, and Charlton Farm in North Somerset.
Their efforts had raised close to £2,000 by the time the Voice went to press.
Mark Grinter said: “It was an experience of a lifetime, and the
hardest thing I have ever done, but to visit the hospices and see the amazing work they do for families was truly inspirational. We will continue to raise awareness and fundraise for the children’s hospice for years to come.”
Heidi Roberts, area fundraiser for CHSW, said:
“Fry’s Junior Football Club are an inspirational team who have created a wonderful ethos of giving and teamwork with the young people at the club.
“I cannot thank the coaches enough for all their hard work raising awareness of our cause.”
The walkers’ Crowdfunding page can be found at www. justgiving.com/crowdfunding/ andrew-glover-2
From start to finish: Tom Burns, Mark Grinter and Andy Glover pictured at Land’s End as they prepare to set off
Above, Mark, Andy and Tom celebrate the end of their 227-mile journey at Somerdale Pavilion
The walkers on part of their scenic route
BOOKS OF THE MONTH
Adult Fiction
There are Rivers in the Sky
Elif Shafak
Elif Shafak is a beautiful writer of touching stories. This one revolves around three separate strands linked by a drop of water.
It charts the story of an Abyssinian king in the ancient city of Nineveh in Mesopotamia and a long-forgotten poem when a natural disaster strikes.
Then in Victorian England, a boy is born on the edge of the River Thames. He has a photographic memory that earns him a way out of poverty.
The third strand is perhaps the most poignant. In 2014 on the banks of the River Tigris, Narim, a Yazidi girl, is confronted with the horrors of war.
It takes Zaleekhah in 2018 to bring all the strands together. Her marriage has ended but she finds a deep connection with her homeland that changes everything. A great read from one of my favourite authors.
Children’s Fiction
This month sees the launch of our libraries’ annual Summer Reading Challenge for children aged between four and 11. You only have to read six books over the summer holiday, and you’ll receive lots of goodies along the way. The theme this year is Story Garden so expect lots of gardenthemed activities and displays around the libraries. So, to get you started:
The Day I Fell into a Fairytale
Ben Miller
adventures, but there are many more to investigate. Great fun.
Granny
Anthony Horowitz
This book was recommended to me by one of our younger customers and it is a fantastic read. Lana loves stories, particular ones where she can makebelieve with her brother Harrison. But one day Harrison thinks he is too old for this, and Lana feels left out.
Then she stumbles on a supermarket called Grimms and discovers a portal into a fairytale world, with fantastic characters and an evil witch. Can Lana defeat the witch? Can she persuade Harrison to believe in stories again and help her?
A great story with an imaginative twist on the Grimm fairy tales.
Asterix the Gaul
Goscinny and Uderzo
In the year 50 BC, all of Gaul is occupied by the Roman Empireapart from one small village that holds out against the invaders. Join Asterix, his good friend Obelix and the cunning druid Getafix in their adventures running rings round the Roman legions with only a small bottle of magic potion. This is the first book of the Asterix
A spooky tale from a great author. Grannies are supposed to be nice and cuddly and give you loads of sweets, but not Joe Warden’s. Joe lives in splendour in Thattlebee Hall. Although his distant parents are very rich, he rarely goes out and feels a bit like a prisoner. But this is not his real worry – that happens to be his Granny!
Joe’s Granny is horriblephysically repulsive and very mean. She descends on Thattlebee Hall with an evil scheme involving the Golden Granny Awards and wants Joe to help her. Can he stop her before disaster strikes? A great read, with a new perspective on grannies!
Picture Books
reviewed by Emilie Bioud, Keynsham Library assistant Roller-coaster
David Broadbent Vincent is spending the day with his granny and they take the bus to go to the seaside.
Ride
On the way she says they could go to the rides and try the roller-
coaster. Vincent gets very excited; you see his imagination going wild. Sometimes as parents we see our children starting to get too excited and the fall is inevitable. This book shows us exactly that but also that children are pretty good at bouncing back.
Dim Sum Palace
X Fang
Liddy is told by her mother that tomorrow they will go with the family to Dim Sum Palace.
She falls asleep and goes into a most wild, strange, and wonderful dream where she visits a palace, becomes a dumpling, and meets an empress. This book is absolutely gorgeous. I can’t tell you how much I loved the illustrations - everyone has plump cheeks and you want to eat the feast with them. I’m left wanting more!
Library news
Alongside our Summer Reading Challenge, Keynsham Library is delighted to announce a series of author events. Starting on July 18 at 2pm, you can meet Rachel Ward, a local author of the Supermarket mysteries, who will chat about her latest book based on Keynsham. Refreshments will be provided. Please book on Eventbrite or in person in Keynsham Library.
There’s always so much going on in all our libraries, and it’s all free. So drop in and see what’s on offer. You can also visit www. librarieswest.org.uk or our ‘Virtual Library’ at baneslibraries.co.uk
IN BLOOM
Join our Golden Watering Can Club!
WE passed the summer solstice on June 21, and what a hot one it was.
Our volunteers have been busy watering the High Street containers. l would like to ask Keynsham businesses to help us by giving the nearest container to their business a cool drink when necessary, but let’s make it a bit of fun.
The Golden Watering Can will be a competition between businesses to adopt a plant container and keep it looking beautiful, and these will be judged in the autumn. The winner will receive a prize and earn a mention in Keynsham Voice - all good advertising.
Please look out for our volunteers, who will be dropping into all High Street businesses to explain our thoughts about making our town a
prettier place to visit and stay a while.
There are discussions about the pedestrianisation of the High Street, which would mean more people drinking coffee under outside umbrellas enjoying the warmer weather. The effect of beautiful flower displays will filter back to the wider community and encourage folk to visit and spend money. It’s a win-win situation. Please contact me at catherinemarywoodman@gmail.com information.
From left, flowerbed at the train station, the Pocket Park and a High Street planter
Our station is blooming and the new sculptures are looking bright and cheerful. The Dee James Memorial Train, flowerbeds, wildflower border and containers are beautifula testament to hard-working volunteers. The Pocket Park has undergone a revamp
duohairdressing
July
Bandstand in the Park 2025
August
September
Come enjoy free music at the Keynsham Memorial Bandstand!
Celebration of style
On Sunday 8th June, Keynsham Town Council held its second Keynsham Re-Loved event, offering a showcase of local sustainable fashion, homewares, and eco living. The event was designed to spark conversations and share practical ideas, and brought together local experts and businesses to highlight how small choices can lead to big change. Timed to coincide with national Great Big Green Week, the event was well received by all those who attended.
The highlight of Keynsham Re-Loved included two fashion shows featuring local volunteer models and clothing from Keynsham’s High Street charity shops. More than just a catwalk, it was a platform to rethink how we shop, dress, and value what we wear.
Sustainability stylist and speaker Becky Barnes returned for 2025 to host the Fashion Show and encouraged attendees to rediscover their personal style without compromising the planet. One lucky winner also walked away with a one-to-one Sustainable Shopping Consultation with Becky, showing just how rewarding slow fashion can be.
Alongside an ecomarketplace of local makers, AliBikes offered free bike health checks to promote greener transport, while Keynsham Beekeepers shared knowledge on pollinator protection and sold local honey. The Makers’ Bee was also on hand to provide an eco craft workshop.
“Events like Re-Loved are worth it if even one person leaves with a new mindset. Small changes really do add up and we encourage all residents to rethink how they shop or to try making simple swaps at home,” said Katherine Sears, Deputy Town Clerk.
“Many thanks go to Becky for sharing her knowledge and to the volunteers for making the event come to life.”
and sustainability
1st Keynsham Rangers
1st Keynsham Scout Group
Age UK BANES
Avon Wildlife Trust Keynsham Branch
Bath and District Citizens Advice Bureau
Combe Down Holiday Trust
Half of Keynsham businesses that responded to the survey said changes to the layout of the High Street have had a negative impact on footfall
Volunteer models joined sustainability stylist and speaker Becky Barnes at the successful Keynsham Re-Loved event
Have your say on funding
THE Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) is a nationwide scheme that enables local councils, (such as Keynsham Town Council) and District Councils (such as B&NES) to collect funds from new developments to help deliver infrastructure projects that benefit the local community.
has accepted a submission of a proposal from St Francis Church for £8,156 for new toilets and solar panels and as part of the process now needs to consult the community on the proposal.
Dorothy House Hospice £1,000
These can include improvements to parks, community buildings, transport links, and other facilities that support the local area. The funds can be spent on new projects or maintaining and improving existing ones, and residents have a say in how the money is used in their community.
In November 2024, Keynsham Town Council put a call out to the community for suggestions from residents on small projects that meet the CIL criteria.
Keynsham Town Council
The CIL funding is not classed as a grant for individuals, community groups, charities or businesses but is funding towards an infrastructure project’s costs - in this case a project idea submitted by St Francis Church - and the result of this consultation will determine whether the project will be funded.
If you would like to provide your input, please visit the Keynsham Town Council website or scan the QR code printed here and fill in a quick online consultation in respect of this application. Deadline for comment is Sunday 13th July 2025.
Grants for the Community
THE Keynsham Town Council Grants Committee met in June to award grant funding to local Charity Organisations and Community Groups. For more than 17 years, Keynsham Town Council’s Grant Award Scheme has supported new events, projects, activities, and items in the town that demonstrate a benefit to the Keynsham area and/or residents.
We look forward to hosting the Grant recipients at the Grants Presentation Evening on Thursday 11th July. See the table on the right for details of where the money went.
Keynsham & District Mencap Society
Keynsham & District Mencap Society - Club 25 £550
Keynsham Amateur Swimming Club £550
Keynsham Community Fridge
Keynsham Community Hub
Keynsham Explorer Unit
Parish
Keynsham Repair Café
Keynsham Snap and Stroll £550 Keyvoices
Phoenix Youth Theatre Group
Sight Support South West
Former Wellsway students strike gold
THREE former students from Wellsway School in Keynsham have received their Gold Duke of Edinburgh’s Award.
Lauren Askew, Kitty Brenden and Roan Turner attended the ceremony in the gardens of Buckingham Palace.
Also there was Dave Sage, a former head of biology at Wellsway School, who returned from retirement to establish a thriving DofE programme across Wellsway School, IKB Academy, and Sir Bernard Lovell Academy in 2016.
The growing success of the scheme culminated this year in more than 170 students participating in the bronze, silver, and gold programmes, starting from Year 9.
Dave - who was joined at the ceremony by Wellsway principal Rob Pearsall - presented each gold award recipient with a photograph from their DofE journey.
Although Dave is stepping down from leading the programme, he intends to continue inspiring students to embrace outdoor learning and personal growth.
The ceremony was addressed by the Duke of Edinburgh, Prince Edward, as well as speakers including TV presenter and columnist Dr Ranj Singh, and Chelsea and England goalkeeper Hannah Hampton. Hannah shared her story of overcoming strabismus, an eye condition that affected her
depth perception, and spoke about resilience in the face of adversity.
Lauren Askew and Kitty Brenden paid tribute to Dave Sage’s inspiration and encouragement during their award journey.
They said: “Doing gold DofE was one of the best experiences of our time at Wellsway and it’s something we’ll always remember.
“Part of what made it so memorable was the presence and impact of Mr Sage. He really made our experience the best it could possibly be and supported us so much throughout - and made sure we had a lot of fun. He made doing the award as a team feel
Left, Roan Turner flanked by Rob Pearsall, left, and Dave Sage
Right, Kitty Brenden, Dave Sage and Lauren Askew
like a family, and it wouldn’t have been the same without him.
Roan Turner said: “DoE was about having an adventure with my friends. We really enjoyed it and loved every minute. Mr Sage was always there with a smile and put his heart and soul into it.”
Wellsway principal Rob Pearsall said: “We’re incredibly proud of our gold award recipients. This achievement speaks volumes about their determination and character. It also reflects the care and dedication Dave Sage has shown in guiding so many students through their DofE journeys.”
n BACK TO NATURE
A bountiful month for beautiful butterflies
JULY is a great month for butterflies. There are about 59 species of butterfly in the UK, and most of us can recognise some of the common ones.
Butterflies are the adult stage of this group of insects, and their purpose is to find a mate and reproduce. Adult butterflies feed on plant material and some need a narrow range of food plant. For example, the Peacock feeds on Buddleia, the Brimstone feeds on thistles and purple flowers, and the Comma likes fallen fruit. While visiting food plants for nectar, the butterflies help in pollination.
After mating, the adult female lays eggs in small clusters on host plant leaves. The eggs last 4-7 days, after which the larva or caterpillar emerges. Their function is to feed and grow, and they can be a problem when they feed on our crops.
Most caterpillars only consume the host plant on which they were laid – this is not the same plant as the adults feed on. Caterpillars can increase their mass by 2,000 times. They shed their skins or exoskeletons a number of times to allow for this growth, and each stage is called an instar.
After a period of 2-5 weeks, the caterpillar forms a pupa or chrysalis. They hang head-down from a leaf and moult for the last time. Inside the outer layer, the tissues are reorganised into the adult form – a process called metamorphosis. After some time, the adult emerges with soft wings and pumps insect blood into the veins so that they become fullsized, and it can fly away.
You can help conserve butterflies by creating a butterflyfriendly garden:
l Include both adult nectar plants and caterpillar host plants.
l Choose sunny but sheltered spots when planting nectar plants.
l Choose different plants to attract a wider variety of species.
l Place the same type of plant together in blocks.
l Provide flowers right through
Thursdays 7:30am, 9am, 10:30am, 5:30 and 7pm
Keynsham Baptist Church, High Street, Keynsham, Bristol
Contact: Trina 07538 309708
the butterfly season.
l Be prepared to live with caterpillars, chewed leaves and some untidiness.
l Avoid using pesticides. Buddleia, Verbena, Lavender, Perennial Wallflower and Marjoram are all good choices.
Butterfly Conservation is
having its 16th Big Butterfly Count running from Friday July 18 to Sunday August 10. It only takes 15 minutes, so why not join in? Visit https://bigbutterflycount. butterfly-conservation.org/ or download the free Big Butterfly Count app.
Rita Andrews
Just a few of the 59 species of butterfly in the UK - from top left, clockwise are Peacock,
Fritillary on Bramble, Brimstone on Teasel, Marbled White, and Comma on Buddleia Photos: Rita Andrews
Musicians weave their magic Choir stages workshop and concert treat
make our performance such a unique experience.
“Then came the second half, where everything seemed to lock in perfectly.”
Gavin Osborn will be special guest for the evening concert
Below, John Hare, leader of Keynsham Good Afternoon Choir
Conductor Phil Draisey was full of praise for the performers.
“Holst’s Perfect Fool was a bold way to open - vivid, strange, and full of theatrical flair. Butterworth’s Shropshire Lad is subtle and atmospheric, and there were some lovely textures and sensitivity in the playing that deserve credit.”
He said that a high point for him, and for many in the audience, was The Three Bears by Eric Coates, played with the perfect mix of charm and wit, and lifted beautifully by Carole Jenner-Timms’ narration.
“It was a brilliant collaboration with a past conductor’s widow, and I’m delighted she was able to
He said Britten’s Soirées Musicales was slick, characterful, and bursting with energy. The detail and focus were exceptional, and the musicians handled the changes of style and tempo extremely well.
The Fantasia on Welsh Nursery Tunes by Grace Williams made for a wonderful close - lyrical, expressive and full of heart.
“It really landed with the audience, and felt like a shared, joyful moment.”
Keynsham Orchestra’s next concert is on November 29 at Saltford Hall. It will feature Scheherazade and other pieces with a Middle Eastern vibe.
AWARD-WINNING international pianist Leon McCawley captivated an audience in Keynsham with a piano recital on June 7.
Leon played a Yamaha concert grand in St John’s Church, where the programme included pieces by Scarlatti, Beethoven, Chopin and Frank.
It ended with an encore by Rachmaninov which received a standing ovation.
The event was presented by Keynsham Concerts, a
voluntary and not-for-profit group of people who aim to bring high-quality classical music concerts to the town.
Leonora Mullen, a member of the Keynsham Concerts organisation team, described the church’s acoustics as first class.
She said: “The concert was well attended and extremely well received. We hope that Leon will return to play for us again in the future.”
A SINGING workshop and concert are to be held by Keynsham Good Afternoon Choir at St John’s Church on July 23.
The fun workshop from 2pm to 5pm will be led by Laurie Jones and John Hare.
John, who lives in Keynsham, is a freelance musician and conductor of the weekly Keynsham Good Afternoon Choir.
Laurie is head of music at Westonbirt School and the youngest son of Good Afternoon Choir founder Grenville Jones.
Grenville said: “It’s going to be a great day of music, with new pieces to learn in the afternoon by the hundred-plus singers who will attend the workshop.”
The concert, from 7pm to about 9.15pm, will feature special guest Gavin Osborn, a popular entertainer known to listeners of BBC Radio 4 and Radio 6.
Grenville said: “He has toured across the UK, Europe and Australia, and we are delighted that he is coming to entertain us on July 23.”
If you want to take part in the workshop and evening concert (music will be provided) call the Good Afternoon Choir office on 01761 472468 for tickets priced £15.
To attend the evening concert only, tickets priced £8 are available in advance from gac.ticketlight.co.uk or by calling 0844 888 9991. They will also be available on the door.
KEYNSHAM Orchestra’s summer soirée of music by British composers was a huge success at St John’s Church.
SCOUTS
An exhilarating weekend camp fit for a king
THE 1st Saltford Cubs and Beavers had an unforgettable weekend at the Wansdyke District Camp, which embraced a royal theme in honour of the King’s birthday.
The young people immersed themselves in a variety of fun and challenging activities designed to build skills, teamwork and a spirit of adventure.
On the Saturday, the group enjoyed a packed schedule that included archery, crate-stacking and target games, testing their precision and coordination. Creativity and craftsmanship were also on display as the Cubs and Beavers tried their hand at woggle-making.
An indoor caving system provided an exciting and safe way to explore the underground world, while circus skills brought laughter and amazement. The young adventurers even learned to communicate using Morse code, adding a historical twist to their day.
Sunday was no less action-packed. The Scouts tackled a challenging obstacle course that pushed their agility and determination. The day ended with a vibrant colour run, where
everyone celebrated with splashes of colour, water and smiles all around.
Leaders and parents alike praised the enthusiasm and camaraderie shown by the Cubs and Beavers throughout the weekend. The royalthemed camp was not only a joyful celebration of the King’s birthday but also a memorable opportunity for the young Scouts to grow and have fun together.
A heartfelt thank-you to all the amazing volunteers and leaders who make it possible for our Cubs and Beavers to experience this weekend. Your patience, experience, time and energy made it possible for them to make memories and have an adventure.
One Cub enthusiastically shared: “Best camp ever, especially the colour run!”
The 1st Saltford Cubs and Beavers are already looking forward to their next adventure. If you or your child would like to be part of this, please email Tina.curtis@wansdykescouts.org.uk
Saltford Cubs and Beavers embracing the great outdoors at the Wansdyke District Camp
Norris votes to support assisted dying
LOCAL MP Dan Norris was among those who voted in favour of plans to legalise assisted dying.
The private member’s bill by Labour’s Kim Leadbeater, sister of murdered MP Jo Cox, was backed in its crucial third reading by 314 MPs and opposed by 291 - a margin of just 23 votes. It will now need to go through the House of Lords before it can become law.
Ms Leadbeater said the Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill would “offer a compassionate and safe choice to terminally ill people who want to make it.”
But critics, who include mother of the house Diane Abbot (also Labour), have warned that the bill lacks safeguards and vulnerable people could end up losing their lives.
Speaking in the House of Commons debate, Liberal Democrat Bath MP Wera Hobhouse said she had received emails from constituents implying that MPs were “too
Dan Norris was suspended by the Labour Party after his arrest in April
stupid or careless” to care for the vulnerable.
She asked Ms Leadbeater: “Is it not true that we all do care, whatever decision we make today, and that we have to continue to educate people and tell them what this bill is about?”
Ms Leadbeater said Ms Hobhouse was “absolutely right.”
She said: “We know that there are different views within the public, and we have to take on board the concerns of vulnerable groups - that is why
the safeguards are so important - but I would also say that there is no one more vulnerable than someone who is dying.”
It was a free vote, allowing MPs to vote according to their conscience instead of being instructed by their party.
Dan Norris’s proxy vote was cast by Labour whip Chris Elmore.
The North East Somerset and Hanham independent MP is understood to be banned from the parliamentary estate under
Parliament’s risk-based exclusion policy.
This follows his arrested in April on suspicion of sexual offences against a girl, rape, child abduction, and misconduct in a public office.
He has not been charged. The investigation is ongoing and he remains on police bail. Mr Norris was elected as a Labour MP but was suspended from the party upon his arrest.
John Wimperis, Local Democracy Reporting Service
KEYNSHAM SCOUTS
Cubs get out and about for adventure
Our Cubs have certainly been putting the “out” in Scouting!
These pictures from recent weeks tell the story of adventure and discovery with Keynsham Scouts. From camping under the stars to sailing in Bristol docks, our young people have been creating memories to last a lifetime.
The sailing trip was a particular highlight, with Cubs learning about wind patterns, mastering their first knots, and discovering the importance of teamwork on the water.
Back on dry land, cratestacking challenged them to trust their teammates while building confidence for future climbing adventures.
Getting into nature has been equally rewarding. Our Cubs have built rafts to navigate local streams, learned to cook over wood fires, and discovered the simple joy of outdoor living. A huge thank-you goes to all the adult volunteers who gave up their weekends to make these adventures possible.
n Mark your calendars – the annual Keynsham Scout auction, book sale and toy sale returns to the Scout HQ on Saturday September 27.
How you can get involved:
l Donate quality items you no longer need
l Join the fun on auction day and discover amazing bargains
l Enjoy homemade refreshments What makes this special:
l Free entry for everyone
l Sealed bidding available if you can’t stay for your item’s turn First time at an auction? Don’t worry! Our friendly atmosphere makes it the perfect place to try bidding for the first time.
l No commission charges – all items are donated
l Three distinct areas: main auction room, book sales, and toy corner
POETRY CORNER
The Scout HQ is located at BS31 2UF, behind the Ashton Way car park.
Doors open at 9am for browsing. The auction begins at 9.45am.
A Birthday Celebration
A birthday in summer’s a memorable one, When family and friends their best clothes they may don. With presents and cards to make the day swing The person who’s celebrating will feel like a King.
The weather just perfect - well hopefully so, Seats for all in the garden the fine day will go. Candles and cakes, laughter and joy, No matter whose birthday, a girl or a boy.
And when the days over and time to depart (Who is that sneaking the very last tart?) Give thanks for the time spent with people you love, And count all the blessings that come from above.
Sylvia Kirby
Save the date for festive fun run
GET ready to jingle all the way through Saltford and Keynsham as the Saltford Santa Dash returns on Sunday December 7.
The fun run is a highlight of the local calendar – and organisers say this year’s event promises to be bigger, bolder, and more brilliant than ever.
Whether you’re a seasoned Dasher or a first-time festive trotter, the familyfriendly day out brings the community together in a flurry of red suits, laughter, and good cheer.
This year, organisers are proud to support CRY (Cardiac Risk in the Young) and Keynsham & District Mencap Society – two charities making real
change in people’s lives. Every runner and every step taken helps raise funds and awareness for these good causes.
Organisers are calling on local businesses and people to get involved.
They say: “Whether it’s through sponsorship, donating prizes, loan of time or rallying a team of Santas – your support makes all the difference to our charities. It’s a great opportunity to show community spirit, raise your profile, and be part of something joyful and meaningful.
“So save the date – December 7, 2025 – and don’t miss out on the merriest event of the season.”
Thank you for taking the plunge!
KEYNSHAM Mencap want to say a huge thankyou to everyone who took part in our abseil fundraiser.
Held at St John’s Church in late April, and supported by so many familiar faces, it raised nearly £10,000 for Keynsham & District Mencap Society. Every pound goes towards supporting people with learning disabilities right here in our area, from weekly social groups and activity sessions to fun and accessible day trips for our members.
We’re proud to be part of a community that shows up and gets involved. And if you’re looking for something different to do this summer, we’ve got a couple of great events coming up.
On Sunday August 4, we’re running the Big Avon Paddle in partnership with CK SUP & Paddle, a relaxed and fun paddleboarding event on the River Avon. Whether you’re on the water or cheering from the banks, it’s a great way to enjoy the local area while raising money for a local cause. Then on Saturday October 19, we’re
holding a Fire Walk at Saltford Hall and Saltford Sports Club. It’s a real challenge, but a rewarding one. There will be music, drinks, and a brilliant atmosphere throughout the evening.
You can find out more and book tickets for both events through the events page on our
THOUGHT FOR THE MONTH
‘ Belonging is more than being present; it’s being known, valued, and loved.
“THE need for connection and community is primal, as fundamental as the need for air, water, and food” – Dr Dean Ornish.
In the heart of Keynsham, belonging isn’t just a feeling - it’s a way of life. Whether it’s the music and fun shared at the Keynsham Music Festival, the quiet conversations over coffee at the market, or the collective effort behind community projects like the food bank or litter picks, our town pulses with a spirit of togetherness.
Belonging is more than being present; it’s being known, valued, and loved. At One Church Keynsham, we believe that every person carries intrinsic worth and is created for connection. Our values of community, welcome, and shared purpose are lived out not just on Sundays, but in the everyday moments - when
neighbours check in on each other, when volunteers give their time freely, and when strangers become friends.
Summer in Keynsham offers countless reminders of this beauty. The parks fill with families, the high street buzzes with life, and local events draw people from all walks of life into shared spaces. These aren’t just gatherings - they’re glimpses of what it means to belong.
In a world that often feels fragmented, our community stands as a quiet but powerful witness to the truth that we are better together.
As we enjoy the warmth of the season, may we also extend the warmth of welcome - to the newcomer, the lonely, the overlooked. Because in Keynsham, there’s always room for one more at the table.
website: www.keynshammencap.org.uk.
Everything we raise stays local. Together, we’re helping make sure people with learning disabilities in Keynsham and the surrounding area have the same chances to connect, grow and enjoy life in their community.
Chris Williams, Pastor
One Church Keynsham
n WHAT'S ON
Friday July 4
n Keynsham RUHX fundraising group meets at Keynsham Library (ground floor by Pam’s Pantry) on the first Friday of the month, 10am-2pm. Free refreshments, chat and a chance to discuss future events and plans. Please drop in, everyone welcome. All help gratefully received. No financial or time obligations/commitments necessary.
Wednesday July 9
n German conversation group, The Old Manor House Hotel, Keynsham, 7pm-9pm, 2nd Wednesday of the month, July 9 (August holidays). Free. Organiser Steve James. Join Keynsham Stammtisch on Facebook.
Thursday July 10
n Welsh conversation group, Burdall’s Yard, London Road, Bath. 3pm-4.30pm. 2nd Thursday of the month. July 10 (August holidays). Free. Organiser Catherine Dhanjal. Call Catherine on 07941669925 or follow Sgwrs Gymraeg De Bryste a Chaerfaddon - Welsh Chat BristolS & Bath on Facebook.
Thursday July 10 to Saturday July 12
n Keynsham Light Opera Group are proud to present JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR at The Space starting at 7.30pm (Saturday matinee 2.30pm). Contact Tracey on 07432 828235 for tickets. Website: www.klogs.co.uk for more information and online booking.
Saturday July 12
n Open day at Saltford Brass Mill, The Shallows, Saltford BS31 3EX, 10am to 4pm. Visit this unique museum and remnant of the Avon valley brass industry. Admission free. Park at The Shallows B&NES car park .
Monday July 14
n Messy Church at Keynsham Methodist Church, Queens Road, BS31 2NN, 3.30pm to 5.30pm, with our usual mix of craft activities, Bible Story, songs, food and fun. Our theme this month is “Messy Summer”. Please book your place with the church office on 0117 9149408 or bookings@ keynshammethodistchurch.co.uk.
Tuesday July 15
n Welsh conversation group, The Old Manor House, Keynsham,
Send details of your events and activities in the following format:
information is available at www. trioparadis.com and Facebook @ trioparadisbath.
Friday July 25
n Free Introduction to social table tennis at Compton Dando village hall, 2pm-4pm. All abilities - pensioners especially welcome. Bats supplied.
Saturday July 26
Email us at: news@keynshamvoice.co.uk or call us on 0117 908 2121/ 07715 770448
7pm-8.30pm. 3rd Tuesday of the month. July 15 (Aug holidays). Free. Organiser Catherine Dhanjal. Call Catherine on 07941669925 or follow Sgwrs Gymraeg De Bryste a Chaerfaddon - Welsh Chat BristolS & Bath on Facebook.
Tuesday July 22
n Saltford and Keynsham Flower Club is visiting a garden for this month’s meeting. Please refer to the club’s website saltfordfloralclub.com and contact Val if you haven’t already booked your place.
Wednesday July 23
n French conversation group, The Old Manor House Hotel, Keynsham. 7pm-8.30pm. 4th Wednesday of the month. July 23 (Aug hols). Free. Organisers Steve James and Catherine Dhanjal. Call Catherine on 0794 1669925 or join L’Amicale Francaise de Keynsham on Facebook.
Friday July 25
n Trio Paradis - Jacquelyn Bevan (piano), Ruth O’Shea (violin) and Linda Stocks (cello) - play ‘Planes, Trains & Automobiles’ - a café concert suitable for young people of all ages – at St John’s Church Hall, Keynsham, at 1pm (café from 12.15pm). Concerts last about 45 mins and attendance is by pay-what-you-feel donation. More
n Open day at Saltford Brass Mill, The Shallows, Saltford BS31 3EX, 10am to 4pm. Visit this unique museum and remnant of the Avon valley brass industry. Admission free. Park at The Shallows B&NES car park.
Friday August 1
n Keynsham RUHX fundraising group meets at Keynsham Library (ground floor by Pam’s Pantry) on the first Friday of the month, 10am-2pm. Free refreshments, chat and a chance to discuss future events and plans. Please drop in, everyone welcome. All help gratefully received. No financial or time obligations/commitments necessary.
REGULAR EVENTS
Mondays
n Keynsham Brass Band, Broadlands School, St Francis Road, Keynsham, 7.30pm to 9.30pm term time. Trombonists particularly needed for traditional brass band. Friendly, relaxed group who play at summer fetes in Keynsham Memorial Park and a few concerts. Call Sarah Medley on 0117 4625626 or email sarah.medley1@btinternet.com, or see the Facebook page or webpage (Keynsham Brass Band).
n The Royal British Legion Women’s Section Keynsham Branch meets on the first Monday of each month upstairs at the RBL Club, Charlton Road, Keynsham, BS31 2JA, 7.30pm. Occasional speakers, social events and outings.
n Key Voices Community Choir meets Mondays at 7.30pm at St. Dunstan’s Church Hall, BS31 2BQ (or third Monday of month at Royal British Legion). We sing a wide range of music, with occasional performances and social events. Friendly non-auditioned choir, all are welcome. First session free.
n Keynsham Bridge Club can now welcome new experienced players to our Monday evening sessions. Contact Pat 07442 160553 or Diane 0117 9861267.
n The Victoria Centre of the Methodist Church in Keynsham High Street is open from 10am to 12pm for coffee, biscuits and a chat. A great place to meet people, so pop in - you will be most welcome.
n Saltford Whist Club, Saltford Hall. Monday afternoons 1.30pm-4pm. Contact Malcolm 01225 872555.
n Children’s Code Club (Years 4-6), Keynsham Community Hub, 67 Queens Road. Create games and animations, 4.30pm–5.30pm.
Mondays/Weds/Thursdays
n The Victoria Centre of the Methodist Church in Keynsham High Street is open from 10am to 12pm for coffee, biscuits and a chat. A great place to meet people, so pop in - you will be most welcome.
Mondays/Thursdays
n Yoga For Men
Monday 7-8pm, mixed ability, St John’s Church of England School, BS31 2NB Thursday 7.30-8.30pm, mixed ability, Two Rivers School, Hygge Park, BS31 1GE Free 1st class, £9 thereafter. Loyalty card. Drop in and pay on the night. Cash or contactless. See www.yogadad.co.uk for further details.
Mondays/Fridays
n Butterflies Haven, charity for families of children with autism, sessions Monday 6.30pm-8.30pm for our older 11-18 year olds and Friday 5.30pm-7.30pm for our 4-11year olds. Sessions are held at St Francis Church, Keynsham. A safe space for children to be themselves supported by volunteers. To join Butterflies Haven and get two taster sessions, complete the child application form on our website www. butterflies-haven.com
Tuesdays
n Badminton - friendly, beginners and improvers, mixed, adult (18 - 80!) group play every Tuesday 10am-12 noon at Keynsham Leisure Centre. Ring Clive 0117 9866793 or just turn up.
n Keynsham Orchestra rehearsals, Queen’s Road Methodist Church Hall, 7.30pm-9.30pm. For more information, visit www. keynshamorchestra.org.uk/
n WHAT'S ON
n Seated Pilates Class Tues at 11-11.30 am Saltford Hall - Avon Room, Wedmore Road, Saltford. Seated Pilates includes all the benefits of a general class but the exercises are adapted for a seated or standing position. Ideal for those with a long-term health condition (e.g arthritis or Parkinson’s), loss of confidence or those wanting to get fitter but have difficulty attending a floor-based session.
6-week block of classes £54. You are welcome to do a trial class first £10
Please book your place by contacting Kate 07454 047536 www.corerehab-physio.co.uk
n Keynsham Girls’ Brigade for girls aged 4 to 15 meet during term time from 6pm to 7.30pm at the Key Centre, Charlton Road, Keynsham. Contact Linda on lindachrisp@hotmail.com
n Scrabble Club, Keynsham Community Hub, 67 Queens Road, 2pm-4pm.
n Keynsham Sequence Dance Club, 7.30pm-10pm, Fear Hall, Keynsham, every Tuesday. Contact Brian and Jo, Keynsham Sequence Dance Club, on 0117 9868540, or just turn up. Everyone welcome.
n St Keyna Townswomen’s Guild meets at the Fear Hall, Keynsham, from 10am to 12pm on the second Tuesday of each month. Contact Jill on 07446915414.
n Public Living Room, Keynsham Community Hub, 67 Queens Road. An open space to relax, keep warm, have a lunch, and meet other people. 12.30pm-4pm.
Tuesdays/Sundays
n Indoor rowing classes Tues 7pm & Sun 10.15am, Saltford Rowing Centre, Bath Road, Saltford, BS31 3JS. Go Row Indoor exercise class caters for people of all ages and levels of fitness. Classes last 45-60 minutes using rowing machines. First class free, then £5 (or £18 pm). Email gorowindoor@ avoncountyrowingclub.org. uk to book. More details http:// avoncountyrowingclub.org.uk/ Wednesdays
n Coffee and Craft, Keynsham Community Hub, 67 Queens Road, 10am-12 noon. For anyone who enjoys crafting with like-minded people.
n Keynsham’s popular Good Afternoon Community Choir from 2pm-4pm at Keynsham Methodist Church / Victoria Centre. NO auditions and NO charge to attend your first ‘meet us’ rehearsal. Everyone welcome www.goodafternoonchoir.org
n Oldland Ukulele Club is a mixedability group who meet every Wednesday at 1.30pm at Oldland Common United Reformed Church (the blue church), High Street, Oldland Common, BS30 9QN. Call/ text ‘Ukulele’ Ben on 07910 668258.
Wednesdays/Thursdays
n Walking Tennis coached sessions at Saltford Tennis Club. Wednesday 10am for 45 minutes for the active and Thursday 10.45am for People with Parkinson’s. Cost £5 per session. Racquets and balls provided and stay on for a cuppa and chat afterwards. if you are interested do come along to a session.
Thursdays
n ASP Poetry Circle, free entry, every third Thursday of each month, 11am-12pm, Keynsham Library, upstairs balcony, diagonally across from table in corner, by the window. Bring two or three poems, own or another poet’s, to share. https:// asppoetrycircle.wordpress.com/
n Keynsham & Saltford Dementia Action Alliance runs Music for the Mind sessions for people living with dementia and their carers. St Dunstan’s Church Hall, Keynsham, 2nd and 4th Thursdays of each month, 10.30am-12.15pm. Singing and gentle exercises from 11am. No charge. www.keynshamdaa. co.uk, ksdaa22@gmail.com or 07392442966.
n Longwell Green Orchestra meet each Thursday at Longwell Green Community Centre, 7.30pm to 9.40pm. We have players of all abilities. Email Contact@ longwellgreenorchestra.org.uk or 07972 844073 beforehand to tell us what instrument and what level.
n Midweek worship at the Keynsham Methodist Church coffee morning (Victoria Centre, BS31 2JA). Join us for a relaxed short service at 11am and enjoy the informal atmosphere. All welcome.
n Spanish class, Keynsham Community Hub, 67 Queens Road, 7pm-8.30pm. A chance to improve your Spanish.
n Art class, Keynsham Community Hub, 67 Queens Road, 10am-12 noon (term time only). Run by Bath City College. Learn and develop your artistic skills.
n Dorothy House Coffee Connection, Keynsham Community Hub, 67 Queens Road, 10am-12 noon. A social group for anyone affected by cancer or life-limiting.
Fridays
n Café Plus at Keynsham Methodist Church (Queens Road, BS31 2NN) during term time. Come and share breakfast, chat and a place to relax, from 8.45am. Looking forward to seeing you there.
n Babies and Breakfast, Keynsham Community Hub, 67 Queens Road, 10am-12 noon. For all mums with babies (up to 6 months). Meet other mums and share experiences.
n Keynsham Sequence Dance Club Monthly Dance, 7.30pm to 10.30pm, Fear Hall, Keynsham, third Saturday of the month. Contact Brian and Jo, Keynsham Sequence Dance Club, on 01179868540 or just turn up. Refreshments (coffee/tea and biscuits), £5 each.
n Volunteers at Keynsham Repair Cafe – a free monthly event, with a café, at Keynsham Baptist Church, High Street – fix everyday household items like toasters and lamps, sew a button onto a jacket, glue a handle back onto a mug, as well as more unusual items. Every second Saturday (same as Keynsham Farmers Market), 10am–12pm. keynshamrepaircafe. wixsite.com/home.
n Bible group, Keynsham Community Hub, 67 Queens Road, 12.30am-4pm, every alternate Saturday. Come along and explore the Bible. The next sessions are on May 10 and 24.
Saturday
n Keynsham Abbey’s remains are open on alternate Saturdays, March to October, from 2pm-4pm (weather permitting) at the top of the Memorial Park, Abbey Park road entrance near the station. Volunteers will be on site and can give details of its history, as well as the work currently being undertaken. For more details, see the Keynsham Abbey web site at keynshamabbey.com.
Sundays
n Keynsham Kings Flag American Football. Do you fancy trying out a new sport? Do you love the NFL? Flag American football is taking the UK by storm as a fastpaced, non-contact version of American football. Training: Sundays 10.30am-1pm, Manor Road Playing Fields. Mixed sport - anyone 16 yearsplus welcome. No previous experience needed. Contact us for more info on the Keynsham Kings Facebook or Instagram pages.
n NEWS
You can join the wildlife champions
RESIDENTS can take advantage of help to set up wildlife zones within Keynsham and Saltford through Avon Wildlife Trust’s Wildlife Champions Programme. From planting for pollinators, bringing people together to share their memories of nature, creating a community garden, or organising walks and talks, the year-long monthly training programme can help you bring your ideas to life.
Training sessions include - ‘An Intro to Basic Ecology’, ‘Community Engagement & Organising’, ‘An Intro to Wildlife Monitoring’, ‘Fundraising Top Tips’, along with some seasonal events.
Over the past couple of years, Avon Wildlife Trust been supporting residents across 12 postcodes to create their vision for nature where they live, including setting up and running community gardens, nature festivals, community nature reserves, litter picks, guided walks, foraging and cooking events.
With funding from the National Lottery Community Fund, Avon Wildlife Trust is now launching a new programme for residents living in BS31.
To find out more, visit the website at www. avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/ wildlife-champions where you can sign up for the online taster talk on Thursday July 10.
PEN TO PAPER
Hailey Bailey’s Ukulele
There once was a girl who had everything, a poster of Westlife with everyone in, a rock from the moon and a piece by Disraeli. She’d just turned thirteen, she was called Hailey Bailey.
Now Hailey’s collection it grew every day ‘cos she made it her thing to throw nothing away, two photos of Churchill and one of the Pope, a map of Iran and a brass telescope.
An early edition of Watership Down, a badminton racket, a silk dressing gown, she collected it all and she checked it all daily, the one thing she missed was her own ukulele. She looked on the net and she wandered the shops, she pushed in the buttons and pulled out the stops, she asked all her friends and her family too but she just drew a blank, because nobody knew.
The more she demanded this musical thing, the more that she longed for the songs it would sing, for a while she grew unbelievably sad, so to cheer herself up she recalled what she had.
A Japanese bonsai, an old pair of specs, a tin of spaghetti and six cigarettes, a Victorian brolly and something Israeli, a puncture repair kit, but no ukulele.
Her head in her hands, her tears ran in streams, she began to lose sight of her wildest dreams, but she knew all the fixes for stopping the rot, when she gladly recalled all the stuff she had got.
A half-written poem, a hamster called Mike, a broken headlight from her mum’s motorbike, she collected it all and she checked twice daily, the only thing missing – her own ukulele.
She wandered in circles and wept as she went, how she pined and she pined for this fine instrument, all the years she had waited, the tears she had cried for this wonderful item that fate had denied.
But for all of her sadness, she still lived in hope, she still had her trumpets, her soap on a rope, her jigsaws, her plus-fours, her antique tea kettle, her collection of wigs and her old wooden settle. Her rabbits, her brothers, her dad and her mum, her hopes and her fears about all still to come, her faith that one day she would go to a ceilidh and dance to the tune of her own ukulele.
Vyv Nugent
Keynsham Creative Writers welcome new members – call George Liddell on 0117 914 8654
Schools
trusts
KEYNSHAM WALKERS ARE WELCOME
Taking a step into the past
THE forecast weather of torrential rain and thunderstorms did not put off 17 keen participants on Keynsham Walkers are Welcome’s outing on June 7.
The group caught the 10.11am train from Keynsham station to Bradford-onAvon, where the walkers strolled along the Frome Road, through Culver Close playfields and up to the Tithe Barn, a 14th century monastic stone barn and one of the largest medieval barns in the country. Here, our walkers took a route up to a public footpath for a 2.5-mile stroll along the edge of Kennet and Avon Canal to Avoncliff.
On reaching Avoncliff, our walkers had the choice of refreshments at the No. 10 Tea Garden, which had a great selection of cakes and some tasty sausage rolls, while others chose to have a drink in the Cross Guns pub.
and increasingly heavy
meant visibility on the day was not so good.
The route back took a slight diversion onto a lower path alongside the main river back to the Tithe Barn. Here, our walkers had time to visit the arts, craft and gift shops at the Tithe Barn workshops, before heading into town for lunch and more shopping.
Some walkers took an additional walk
This historic church, dating back to the late 15th or early 16th century, provides a unique perspective on the town’s architecture and the surrounding countryside. Despite the worsening weather in the latter part of the afternoon, the walk was enjoyed by all before the train back to Keynsham.
merger takes a step closer
TWO successful schools trusts in the West Country are planning to join forces to create one of the largest educational organisations in the region.
The Department for Education has approved a proposed merger between Futura Learning Partnership and Olympus Academy Trust. Futura runs Keynsham schools Wellsway and IKB Academy, plus St John’s, Two Rivers and Chandag primaries, as well as Saltford School.
Staff, learners and families at the 36 schools involved will now be consulted on the plans before a final decision is taken by the two trust boards.
If agreed, the new trust – to be called Halcyon – is expected to launch early in 2026. It will operate 25 primary, one all-through and 10 secondary schools across Bristol, South Gloucestershire, B&NES, North Somerset, and Somerset.
Halcyon will be led by Gary Schlick, CEO of Futura. Dave Baker, founding CEO of Olympus, will take on a new role within the organisation that utlilises his extensive skills and experience.
Those proposing the merger say it will provide security and opportunities for nearly 20,000 children aged two to 19 as well as 2,350 staff.
New role: Gary Schlick
to the Chapel of St Mary Tory, atop one of Bradford-on-Avon’s hills. The chapel offers exceptional views of the town, although the dark skies
rain
n MESSAGE FROM POLICE AND CRIME COMMISSIONER
Celebrating our volunteers
LAST month I marked Volunteers’ Week with an event to celebrate the 66 dedicated volunteers supporting the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner across Avon and Somerset. These volunteers give their time, energy, and expertise week in, week out - not for recognition
or reward, but because they deeply care about fairness, transparency, justice, and community.
Each of our volunteers plays a vital role in helping me and my office hold the police to account. What they do isn’t always easy, but it matters enormously.
Reflecting on their impact in 2024, these volunteers achieved the following:
• 646 individuals in custody were interviewed by independent custody visitors. Their treatment, rights, and entitlements were checked and upheld.
• 96 police complaint files were reviewed in full. Their insights identified areas for improvement and prompted action to be taken.
• 191 cases of police use of force were scrutinised, with over 240 hours of body-worn video footage reviewed. Their findings shaped themes for change, identified areas for improvement, and highlighted examples of good practice.
• 87 Community Resolution cases were reviewed, including cases involving sexual offences, domestic abuse, hate crime, and youth knife possession. Their feedback was shared with magistrates and the Local Criminal Justice Board to drive
With Police and Crime Commissioner
change.
Additionally, an independent expert board continued to oversee the Tackling Disproportionality programme, helping to ensure it remains focused on achieving long-term, anti-racist reforms in our criminal justice system.
I am deeply grateful to all those who volunteer to support me, for their ongoing support to create fairer criminal justice services for all.
To find out more about the roles please visit the volunteering pages on my website, www. avonandsomerset-pcc.gov.uk.
Clare Moody
Clare Moody (front, centre) with volunteers at the celebration event
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The property boasts parquet flooring throughout the ground floor and generous living spaces, including two elegantly designed reception rooms.
A standout feature is the open-plan kitchen, dining, and family room, enhanced by bi-folding doors that seamlessly connect the indoor area to the patio and rear garden.
The home includes a dedicated cinema room, perfect for movie enthusiasts. Two of the bedrooms come with en-suite facilities, complemented by a downstairs w/c and a study. A private large driveway provides parking and a small garage.
The location is superb, with Keynsham railway station just a short distance away. The newly opened Chocolate Quarter nearby offers a delightful array of amenities, including restaurants and leisure facilities.
Do not miss the opportunity to make this remarkable property your new home. Schedule an internal inspection today. Arrange
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Gene helps England reign in Spain
KEYNSHAM badminton player
Gene Joyner helped England’s masters team win gold at the Senior Nations Cup.
They defeated reigning champions Denmark in a closely fought final at the tournament at Rondo, Spain, which involved 12 nations.
Each tie consisted of six age groups - 40, 45, 50, 55, 60, and 65as competitors played mixed, men’s and ladies’ doubles.
England breezed through group C, beating Ireland 5-1 and both Spain and Scotland 6-0.
Meeting the Netherlands in the semi-finals, England seemed to struggle at the start before going on to a comfortable 5-1 win.
They were very much the underdogs going into the final against a quality Danish side that included a former world champion.
While the tie ended three-all, the last match of the tie went to three ends, which England won 21-18. This proved pivotal, with England winning on countback, 13 match wins to 11. Had Denmark won the final game, they would
have taken the top spot.
Gene has represented England masters several times, having played in the winning Senior Nations Cup team in Stuttgart four years ago. He has also played a couple of times in the annual England v Scotland McCoig Trophy competition.
As an individual, but proudly wearing an England shirt, Gene
is the winner of several senior European and world doubles titles. His next tournament is the World Senior Championships in Thailand this September.
Gene, who lives in Keynsham, is chair of Chew Valley Badminton Club, Avon Badminton Association, and a board member of Badminton England. He has played as a visitor at Chew Park Keynsham, St Lukes,
Broadlands and Monday night Saltford Badminton. He said: “For anyone thinking of playing, I can recommend badminton as a very social sport, with the many health benefits that regular exercise brings, and the Keynsham and Saltford area offers badminton for everyone at whatever level, social or competitive.”
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Gene Joyner, right, with the trophy after England’s badminton triumph in the Senior Nations Cup
n SALTFORD TENNIS CLUB
n ADVERTORIAL
We’re celebrating 65 great years
Bristol-based The Window Hub progresses on green goals
Bristol-based home improvement company, The Window Hub, is aiming to plant 3,000 trees over the next three years as part of its commitment to being a climate conscious business.
Boyd Valley Lake, which is located in Bitton. This is in addition to continuing its policy of recycling all old frames so they don’t end up in landfill.
Ladies from the club celebrating its 21st anniversary, with Pat Dyke, right
Club chair Rachael Tonkin admiring the cake baked by Kate Lamb at the club’s 65th birthday celebrations, while trustees, members and family enjoy the day
WHEN Laura Sinclair, an established member of the ladies’ first team, looked through old newspaper clippings and photos collected by her late grandmother, Pat Dyke, little did she know that this would lead to a major celebration at Saltford Tennis Club.
The window installation company was launched during lockdown in 2020 by seasoned industry professional Danny, who wanted to create a business that was “built on quality rather than greed”.
From Pat’s archives, the club was able to work out that it was established in 1960. So on Sunday June 1, members enjoyed a wonderful afternoon celebrating 65 years since the club’s foundation.
“friendly” game of rounders and boules.
the company’s professionalism, friendliness, tidiness, and attention to detail.
In fact, a new showroom is scheduled to open this month.
They were hosted by the Saltford Sports Club, where there was a barbecue, salads, and a tennis-themed cake made by Kate Lamb.
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.
Over the years, the club has consistently been at the heart of the community. It has coached the young, the old, beginners and winners of the Avon League divisions. It has also provided accessible sport such as walking tennis, tennis for people with Parkinson’s, as well as children’s inclusive tennis, which was recognised with our coach Andy Gray being a finalist at the national LTA coaching awards in April.
Danny launched The Window Hub because he wanted to be much more than just a double glazing company.
The competitive spirit continued off the court as members and guests took part in a
“We know that choosing new windows and inviting someone
The club is proud of its fundraising efforts, which have afforded us a new clubhouse, tennis equipment and contributed towards Saltford Community Association.
projects, including a Mbarara tennis club in rural Uganda - providing them with funding, clothing and tennis equipment - and raising funds for Iringa School for the Deaf in Tanzania.
Everything the club achieves is through the commitment of volunteers, so if you would like to join our tennis community, please get in touch and try a social session for free to meet some of our members.
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.
In addition, we have supported overseas
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.
While the style of clothing, racquets and the tennis may have changed since 1960, the welcoming appeal of the club has never diminished, and our ever-growing membership is testament to that.
“Sales begin and end with treating customers properly. And
For more information, please visit TheWindowHub.co.uk.
Happy birthday to Saltford Tennis – here’s to 65 more years!
a FREE no obligation quote from the
company in the South West & South Wales in the final of the industries Prestigious G24 Awards!
01392 642 634
Abbot: 01626 932 964
Award caps a season of triumphs
KEYNSHAM Hockey Club has officially been named Emerging Club of the Year at the England Hockey Awards 2025.
Club chair Katherine Sears said: “We are immensely proud of this award, and this national recognition is a testament to the incredible hard work and commitment of our players, coaches, volunteers, and community over the past year.
“From record membership growth to our most successful season ever, this award highlights our mission to make hockey accessible, welcoming and thriving in the Keynsham area.”
Pictured celebrating the award with England Hockey president Alex Danson (fourth left) are Keynsham Hockey Club committee members (from left) Tim Sears, Mandy Haskins, Katherine Sears, Rich May and Rachel May.
n FRY’S BOWLING CLUB
Top of the
Bristol and District League: Henleaze B made the trip to Somerdale in Fry’s third game of the Bristol and District League Division 3.
A back-and-forth game was in the balance until Fry’s made a late surge to take a commanding 71-48 win, with all 10 points, to take them into second in the league.
A local derby between the second and third placed teams took place on a sunny and windy night at Somerdale. Fry’s took the early advantage against Keynsham
district league after flying start
B across the rinks and continued to pull away. Fry’s claimed a 64-22 win with all 10 points, which saw Fry’s move 7 points clear at the top of the table.
Fry’s continued their good form in the trip to Page Park B, missing out on all 10 points on the final bowl.
Fry’s extended their lead with a 10-0 win over second-placed Imperial. Imperial kept 2 rinks tight, with rink 1 battling to get their noses in front. A late 6 for Imperial on rink 3 saw them take
TOM DAY LTD
the lead, but Fry’s closed out the game on the final two ends, winning 63-36 to extend their lead to 17 points.
Fry’s stayed top at bottom club Keynsham C. After a slow start, Fry’s picked things up to come away with a comfortable win, just falling short of all 10 points on the last couple of ends, taking 8 points from the 69-38 win. Fry’s currently top the table, 15 points clear of Imperial.
Scores:
May 22: Fry’s 71-48 Henleaze BRink 1, 24-18; Rink 2, 18-12; Rink 3, 29-18 (10-0).
May 29: Fry’s 64-22 Keynsham BRink 1, 19-10; Rink 2, 20-7; Rink 3, 25-5 (10-0).
June 5: Fry’s 62-30 Page Park BRink 1, 30-9; Rink 2, 19-7; Rink 3, 13-14 (8-2).
June 12: Fry’s 63-36 ImperialRink 1, 18-12; Rink 2, 25-11; Rink 3, 20-13 (10-0).
June 19: Fry’s 69-38 Keynsham CRink 1, 21-14; Rink 2, 32-7; Rink 3, 16-17 (8-2).
Friday Triples League:
In the trip to Begbrook Green, Fry’s were able to win two rinks, but with a big deficit on the third rink, Begbrook took 8 points, winning 58-40.
A tight encounter at Avonvale went to the home side. Both teams took control of a rink, and with Avonvale taking the third rink, they took 10 points from the 55-53 win.
Fry’s bounced back the following week with a 10-2 against Keynsham, taking a 57-45 win, narrowly missing out on the third rink.
Another tight encounter saw Fry’s come out on the wrong side of scoreboard at home to St Anne’s Park, with the visitors finishing on top by a single shot to take 10 points, leaving Fry’s with 2 points from the 54-55 scoreline.
Fry’s had a successful Triples Cup quarter-final against Severn Vale. They advance to the semifinal against Victoria Park at Knowle on July 8.
Scores:
May 23: Fry’s 40-58 Begbrook Green - Rink 1, 4-32; Rink 2, 15-12; Rink 3, 21-14 (4-8).
May 30: Fry’s 53-55 Avonvale - Rink 1, 16-30; Rink 2, 25-8; Rink 3, 12-17; (2-10).
June 6: Fry’s 57-45 KeynshamRink 1, 23-13; Rink 2, 16-18; Rink 3, 18-14 (10-2).
June 13: Fry’s 54-55 St Anne’s ParkRink 1, 17-18; Rink 2, 16-30; Rink 3, 21-7 (2-10).
n KEYNSHAM BOWLING CLUB
Mixed fortunes as teams battle it out
BOTH our ladies and men at Keynsham Bowling Club have now completed a number of fixturesboth league and friendly matches - with varying degrees of success.
Our ladies compete in the North Somerset League, where they have played six games, winning four, and are currently in second position. They also play in the Ladies County Triples League, having won one of their three matches.
In their cup matches against other clubs, they beat Alexandra Park in the Southey Cup and now play Bath in the next round, whilst Purnells are their opponents in the Fear Cup.
They have held their internal Triples Day, which has resulted in Sheila Hillier, Jennie Crockford and Maureen Cavill set to play Sally Difazio, Joan Harvey and Jan Iles on the Finals Day in September.
Our men field three teams in the Thursday Bristol & District League. The A team was promoted last season to Division 1 and is finding the going a little tough, having won just one of their seven games and accruing 20 points.
Both of B and C Teams play in Division 3, where the B Team has won four of its seven games and is in fourth position with 42 points. The C Team has lost all its six games and has gained 11 points.
The men also field three teams in the
Saturday Somerset County League, with the A and B teams both playing in the East 1 Division. Both teams have won two of their four games, with the A team currently on 25 points, with the B team three behind on 22 points.
The C team plays in East 2, where it has won one of its four games, gaining 4 points.
The men also play in the Friday Triples League, which starts much earlier in the season than the other leagues. Nine games have so far been played and we have won five, gaining 50 points to be in fourth position.
In the knockout club competitions, we beat Paulton and then Clarence Park in the National 2x4 rinks, before losing to Portishead RBL. We lost away to Bath in the Top Club competition.
In the Lloyds Trophy, we had a bye in the first round and then came up against our local rivals Fry’s in the next round, played on our green. Before the game, players gathered on the green in silence remembrance of Peter Fiedor, the much-respected chairman at Fry’s, who had passed away earlier in the day.
The game was a close encounter which resulted in a win for Keynsham by 46 to 39 shots, meaning that we now progress to the next round, at home to either Olveston or GB Britton.
The club also fields a team in the Friday evening Mid Somerset Mixed League, where we have won one out of four matches. Unlike other clubs, who field their strongest players possible, we select a combination of new and experienced players. This helps new players to understand playing competitively whilst receiving support from those “longer in the tooth”.
The first all-day competition took place, when members played against one another in a series of mixed triples matches to compete for the Ray Percival Shield.
Our photograph shows the winning side of Graham Cavill, Jennie Crockford and Roy Wilton.
