The Bristol Eight Magazine

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Feb ‘13

No 48

In This Issue - Let’s Rock Bristol - Nathan’s Garden Diary - Paths up the Gorge Protect yourself against burglary - The joy of Macs - Organise your life - and more

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4 Hello there. February ‐ Winter must be nearly over ‐ or is it? I reckon there’s a few more snowballs left to be thrown before the season is out. But don’t think of winter ‐ why not look ahead to summer, and specifically an exciting music event that is coming our way? “Let’s Rock Bristol2 is a one‐day festival featuring a fine line‐ up of 80’s bands and singers including Billy Ocean and ABC at a family‐friendly event in Blaise. There is a family ticket to the event up for grabs in our prize wordsearch on page 26.

Do please get in touch if you want to say anything about the magazine, submit an event or notice for future publication, enter the competition or enquire about advertising your business. The deadline for inclusion in the March issue is Tuesday 19th February. To get in touch please just drop me a line (8 Sandyleaze, WoT, BS9 3PY), an email (andy@thebristoleight.co.uk), a call (0117 968 7787) or text (07845 986650) or even a tweet (@BS9Andy).

Thanks for reading and have a great month .

Andy

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Find out more The first step is to contact Bluebird care to arrange an ini al visit. This is nothing more than an opportunity to ask all your ques ons face to face.

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Bluebird Care (Bristol West) is owned and managed by Cameron MacLeod. Although Cameron hails from Scotland he has lived and worked locally in north Bristol for the last 16 years.

“The reason I wanted to start the Bluebird Care business in Bristol is that I have personal experience of the care industry as my mother unfortunately suffers from demen a and I have seen the impact that missed visits or inadequate service can have.

I therefore want to provide a fantas c service, and stand out as a company that really and truly cares.”

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There’s Gold in them there houses – and the chances are it’s under‐insured.

If there’s been one sure fire investment during the past 5 years in one of the deepest and longest‐ running recessions in recent history… it’s been Gold & Silver.

Gold has increased in value by more than 500% in the past decade as investors see it as a safe haven in a world of economic uncertainty, while the value of Silver has increased by around nine mes in the last 10 years.

But while the number of Gold & Silver items being insured on home insurance policies has doubled over the last two years, an es mated six‐million UK households could well be under‐insured due to the rapid rise in the value of precious metals and gems.

And with a reported increase of 22% in the number of jewellery items stolen in house the s in the past two years, the danger is that many householders who become vic ms of the could well miss out on full insurance pay‐outs because values of insured items are simply out of date.

Jelf Private Client Execu ve, Ma hew Shearing, said.

“We are experiencing a rise in the number of stolen jewellery claims as the value of Gold and Silver has increased. We would urge homeowners to have the

current value of their jewellery checked on a regular basis and to update their home contents insurance cover accordingly to prevent under‐ insurance issues in the event of a claim”.

As well as providing you with expert advice on poten al under‐insurance issues, we can arrange a comprehensive and flexible policy that meets with your current circumstances. We have access to a wide‐range of niche High Value household insurers which can accommodate a number of different assets under one unique policy, including cover for your; Main Residence, Second/Holiday Home, Valuables & Fine Art, Vintage Cars, Family Motor Fleet, Small Cra / Yachts and Annual Travel etc

If you would like to receive a confiden al review of your private insurances from a well‐respected local Broker, we would be delighted to arrange a visit from one of our Private Clients team, where we would be able to carefully select cover to meet with your individual needs. For a review or for further informa on, please do not hesitate to contact our Private Client Execu ve, Ma hew Shearing, by email or telephone

Ma hew Shearing Private Client Execu ve Tel: 0117 2402084 ‐ Mob: 07866 202692 Email: ma hew.shearing@jelfgroup.com

Jelf Insurance Brokers Ltd Edgecumbe Hall, Richmond Hill, Cli on, Bristol, BS8 1AT

12 Guarding against burglary I’ve received a copy of a letter than has recently been issued Avon & Somerset Police to BS8 residents in Failand, following a recent spate of thefts from the area. With it came a request from the Local Neighbourhood Policing Team to see if it could be shared more widely with readers of The Bristol Eight. It contains sensible precautionary advice from the Police, and seems well worth sharing.

POLICE NOTICE

Dear Local Residents

Please Be Aware ‐ Your local Neighbourhood Policing Team are making you aware that there is currently an increase in dwelling and garage burglaries and theft from cars in your area.

Opportunist burglars will seize any chance if they spot a window or door left open or an empty home (or what looks like an empty house) or a hedge which allows them to work hidden from view.

Help to beat the burglars by taking a few easy steps to protect your home: ▪ Secure garden boundaries and entry points to

houses – consider putting a lock on a side gate.

▪ Making your home looked lived in while you are

away can prevent a burglary – consider

automatic timer switchers to switch lights,

radio on and off in downstairs or upstairs

rooms.

▪ Clear any garden tools / ladders – very useful to

a burglar!

▪ Lock the garage and shed with proper security

locks / consider an alarm.

▪ If you are away, cancel deliveries of milk,

newspapers etc., discretely – don’t announce

your departure to a shop full of people. Only tell

people who need to know you’re going away.

▪ Mark any valuable items with your postcode

and take photographs of jewellery. Consider

the use of “Smart Water” a security marking

product.

▪ Install a small floor safe.

▪ Lock all outside doors and windows – don’t

leave keys on show or in the locks.

▪ Remember your door step code – if you cannot

view who is at your door from a window and

you have a chain, please open the door on this

or if you have a spy hole use it. Check the back

door is locked. Ask for ID. Please remember you

do not have to open your front door.

▪ Consider outside security lighting – which react

to movement or light conditions

Please Be Vigilant – if you think something is suspicious it probably is – let us know. 101 is the non‐emergency number where you can report an incident after it has happened or if something is happening right now dial 999.

If you are interested in a free Crime Prevention visit to your home please contact us on 101 or visit the Avon and Somerset Constabulary website and follow the links to your local Beat Team.

Thank you for your diligence in this matter.

Yours faithfully PCSO 8017 Charlotte Thompson PC 2707 Adam Clarke Your Local Neighbourhood Policing Team

www.avonandsomerset.police.uk

13 The Bristol Downs Recorder

How to climb the Gorge

The Avon Gorge is three hundred feet deep, and people have been finding ways to clamber up and down it for centuries. Today there is a single vehicle route, Bridge Valley Road, built in 1820 by the great road engineer John MacAdam, who more or less singlehandedly doubled the national average vehicle speeds to around twelve mph, and ushered in the coaching era. But there are four pedestrian routes.

The oldest is probably what some maps call the New Zig Zag, otherwise known as the Fairyland Path which starts at the top alongside Bridge Valley Road, but is far more direct, and precipitous, ending in a flight of steps on to the Portway. It has a tarmac surface, but today is very rarely used as there is no safe access in any direction along the Portway itself. However it lies opposite the very ancient route down Nightingale Valley which ends on the bank of the Avon. This route is protected on either side by two very large iron‐age encampments, at Burwalls and in Leigh Woods, and they were clearly there to protect and control this strategic route. How the Avon was crossed is uncertain; a ferry would only work effectively during about an hour at the top of the tide, because otherwise any ferryboat would be carried miles up or downstream by the current. Or there could have been a bridge of boats at low tide, with a paved approach on either side. But the nearest route up the Bristol side of the gorge would have been up the Fairyland path.

The next oldest route is I suspect the path down the Gully. This was clearly a good path in Victorian times, with steps and railings and seats, remnants of which remain, but it is in fact much older as a map of 1748 shows a track down it leading to a building at the bottom. This building was originally the New Hotwell, because a second hot spring had been discovered in 1702,but it was never a commercial success, and the structure may have become a hut for quarrymen. Today the track goes down through the Goat enclosure, and is wilder and rockier than it has been for centuries. Recent

rains have dug a deep channel in what used to be a fairly even path.

The third route was the ZigZag on Sion Hill, of 18th century construction, designed to link the fashionable Hotwell with the fashionable villas of Georgian Clifton. It was of course briefly replaced by the Clifton Rocks Railway, opened in 1892 and abandoned in 1939. It is still well maintained by the council, and well used, as it remains the shortest pedestrian route from the Cumberland Basin to Clifton. There is a safe footpath along the Portway towards Bristol, which passes the Colonnade, a row of 18th century shops originally linked to the Hotwell House. See if you can beat five minutes from top to bottom and back again.

The fourth route is the most mysterious. I call it the Green Lane, but it is unmapped and un‐signposted. It starts opposite Trafalgar House on the Promenade, and is just a grassy space between trees. It gets steeper and narrower, and then ends abruptly in a spectacular series of steps leading down to the very bottom of Bridge Valley Road. These steps were dramatically rebuilt when the work on Bridge Valley Road was complete last year.

It is possible to cross both Bridge Valley Road and the Portway using the pedestrian lights, and then to travel on foot or by bike in either direction.

There is a fifth route, the Inclined Plane, which was built c 1880 linking the bottom of the Great Quarry to the top of the Downs near the Gully. The bottom section of the route was constructed of scaffolding from the vertical lip of the quarry down to a temporary barge dock on the river. A stationary engine at the top hauled tubs of spoil from the Cumberland Basin up the incline and they were then pulled by horses across temporary tracks laid across the Downs to fill the huge quarries scattered across the surface of the Downs. There must have been an up rail and a down one. The remnants of the structure are now engulfed in woodland, but can still be found by the adventurous.

If you enjoy the Downs, why not become a Friend?

Membership is just £10. Contact Robin Haward at robinhaward@blueyonder.co.uk or tel 0117 974 3385.

Richard Bland

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Kemps Jewellers - established1881 Let us help you celebrate Valentine’s Day - receive a complimentary rose with every jewellery purchase up to 14th February.

♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦

Professional Friendly Advice Wedding ring and gift packages available Beautiful Gift Ideas Gift Wrapping Service Registered Pawnbrokers Jewellery and watch repairs undertaken

www.kempsjewellers.com

How much is Your gold worth?

Gold - we buy it Old jewellery Krugerrands Sovereigns

In the last five years the price of gold has almost tripled, and the trend is still rising. So there has never been a better time to trade in your old unwanted gold. Come in for a free valuation and maybe raise the deposit on that special piece of jewellery.

Kemps Jewellers, 9 Carlton Court, Westbury on Trym - 0117 950 5090

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16 Former interna onal swimmer and Bri sh record holder Penny Porter, has opened a new physiotherapy and aqua c fitness centre, on Dragons Well Road, in Henbury.

The state of the art facility has four treatment rooms, a rehabilita on gymnasium and an amazing endless hydrotherapy pool with twin fast lane units, which generate a variable current of water that you can swim against, rather like the water equivalent of a running treadmill.

Penny is one of the countries leading physiotherapists and fitness experts, and is currently working with England Rugby, Bri sh swimming and Bri sh universi es.

A er gaining her physiotherapy degree in Bristol, she completed an MSc in Exercise Physiology at Loughborough University and went on to work as a biomechanist to Bri sh Swimming and then as first team physiotherapist for Bristol Rugby Club. A er working with Bristol Rugby for 7 years, she went on to work for England Rugby. She is also a highly skilled swimming teacher and an interdisciplinary Sports Scien st being a member of the Bri sh Associa on of Sports & Exercise Scien sts.

Now bringing all her considerable experience together, Penny has assembled a team of na onally recognized, highly qualified, sports physiotherapists, with the aim of offering an integrated approach to injury management,

analysing the cause and pu ng together a complete package of care to prevent further injuries. The team have extensive experience of trea ng a variety of pa ents in NHS hospitals, private prac ce and working with elite athletes. But you don’t have to be an athlete capable of compe ng on a na onal stage to benefit from the centres help. Whatever the cause of your injury, spor ng or otherwise, the team aims to provide a tailor‐ made approach that will help deal with your injury, return you to fitness and if you are a sports person, enhance your performance.

What makes Penny Porter Physiotherapy unique, is that they really do offer a ‘World Class’ Physiotherapy service, with all therapists being members of the Associa on of Chartered Physiotherapists working in Sport. Their clients include England Rugby, Bri sh Swimming, Bri sh Water Polo, Bri sh Ice Ska ng….to name but a few….an impressive client list that speaks for itself!

In addi on to expert physiotherapy, the centre also offers a number of other services based in and out of the endless pool, with a par cular emphasis on post and pre natal, parents and babies in the water and injury preven on.

So, what’s on offer?

Hydrotherapy Hydrotherapy has been shown as the quickest way to rehabilitate many injuries, and is widely used by elite sports teams. But you don’t have to be a super‐fit athlete to benefit since it is an excellent therapeu c, low ‐impact ac vity for everyone. The heated pool is 1.2 metres deep and because buoyancy decreases the stress on joints and the spine, it provides an opportunity for non weight‐bearing ac vity that is great for a wide range of condi ons. These include arthri s, rheuma sm, scia ca, aching joints, back pain, fa gue, insomnia, poor circula on, stress, muscular pain, s ffness, cramps or tension as well as spor ng injuries. There is also an underwater treadmill.

Swimming If you are looking to improve your swimming technique

17 and efficiency, then try the aqua c fitness programme.

It caters for everyone of all ages, from those wishing to learn to swim, through to those looking to break world records. And to help swimmers “picture” their technique, and so learn to improve it, the centre offers underwater video analysis using the latest HD cameras.

Various packages are available, including the op on to take a filmed swim session and analysis away on DVD or a memory s ck. Further informa on is available on the web site.

help them to exercise safely during and a er pregnancy.

There are numerous benefits including strengthening the pelvic floor muscles, reducing pelvic and back pain by strengthening the core, and helping to fla en the tummy a er pregnancy.

To make an appointment at the centre, you do not need a GP referral, simply phone, or call in to arrange a consulta on. The centre is affordable, and is recognized by health insurance companies.

Parent and Baby Adult and baby swim sessions are available now. These

Penny working

courses are for up to six parents and their babies. Each class lasts 30 minutes and is an excellent way to develop physical and psychological skills in babies. It’s also a safe environment where children can enjoy the water while learning. Perhaps most importantly, these sessions provide an excellent opportunity for bonding and relaxa on. There is a facility to offer, if wanted, above and below the water photographs and video of baby using the state of the art camera system.

Pre– and Post‐Natal The centre features FitBack and Bumps. This is an Ante and Post Natal Educa on Exercise Programme, run by chartered physiotherapists. It brings mums and mums‐to ‐be together to share pregnancy experiences and will

for England Rugby at Twickenham

The Penny Porter Physiotherapy Centre is at; 18A Dragons Well Road, Henbury, Bristol, BS10 7BU. Web: Www.pennyporter.co.uk Email: info@pennyporter.co.uk Tel: 0117 3302448 or 07957 871605

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HISTORIC TOURS of GOLDNEY or ROYAL FORT GARDENS 2013

19 Nathan’s Garden Diary Hello, it's me again, and I'm looking forward to sharing a new season with you all. This year, rather than focusing on just growing veg, I will also be including general garden and plant maintenance tips.

It's February, and spring is almost in sight! This month I will be doing different things for different customers.

Vegetable gardens

▪ Remove any weeds that have over wintered in your beds.

▪ Plant bare rooted Raspberry canes as long as the soil isn't frozen or water logged. A good tip is to sprinkle mycorhizall fungi on to the roots, this will help them establish much faster.

▪ Start 'chitting' your seed potatoes. Always buy certified seed potatoes from the garden centre. To 'chit' your potatoes (encouraging the seed potatoes to sprout before planting) put them in a container (an egg box is ideal!) facing upwards so you can see the eyes. Keep them dry, in a light place, and keep them protected from frost, and within a month you should have dark, stubby shoots appearing from the eyes. These are then planted out in March.

▪ You can also sow seeds now for a variety of vegetable crops. I will be cracking on with indoor sowings of Leeks, early Peas, and summer cabbages. You can also plant your onion sets now to. Have a look at my blog for more information: www.victory‐gardens.co.uk/blog

Garden maintenance

▪ Prune hardy evergreen hedges. Don't be tempted to get the hedge trimmer out on broad leaved evergreens. The blades will slice through the leaves, making them look

hacked and ugly, they will then start to go brown and die back. It's best to work through the hedge, with a sharp pair of secateurs, selectively pruning to shape.

Always prune back to healthy buds.

▪ Cut back deciduous grasses, that have over wintered.

Cut the dead foliage down, being careful not to cut any of the new growth.

Prize Draw

During this cold weather, it's important to encourage birds into our gardens, and to keep them well fed. With this in mind I thought I'd offer 3 wild birdcare packages.

The package includes a bird nesting box (installed by me), and a fat ball feeder topped up with some tasty fatballs, giving the little critters somewhere to call home, and have easy access to some good food!

Simply go to my Facebook page www.facebook.com/ VictoryGardensBristol, 'Like' my Facebook page, and share the link 'Wild bird care package' to be in with a chance of winning! Good Luck!

Deadline for entries is midnight, 28/02/2013. Applicants need to live within Bristol as I will be delivering package personally.

20 Is your business in safe hands? By Grant McCall - Director AMD Solicitors

Forming a business relationship with your commercial lawyer should be a proactive decision rather than a reactive one. Many legal commercial issues can arise over the course of a year.

At start up, a business should ensure that it is set up in the most favourable way possible. There are many ways to conduct a business, for example as a partnership or as a limited company. It is essential that the owners of a business know where they stand from the start.

This means having a bespoke ownership agreement in place and having tailored terms and conditions of business that actually correlate to the way you run your business.

As a business grows, it should start to see a value in its’ trading name or business logo, “the brand”. Brand protection is essential for all businesses and something a good commercial lawyer will identify and register with you.

A growing business may need to take on premises. Our commercial department have specialist commercial property lawyers who can work with you to

negotiate suitable terms for your business premises.

Acquisitions may be on the radar for growing businesses.

Time is frequently a critical factor.

Recently I received a telephone call from an existing client to complete the sale of a business within 5 days! This was only possible because I already knew the business. Had I not known the assets, contracts, employee position, it could have taken much longer to complete - my client clearly benefitted from having an existing relationship with his commercial lawyer.

So what are the challenges or targets for your business in 2013? Our commercial department are currently offering a free 30 min business legal health check over coffee.

AMD Solicitors are the winners of the Local Law Firm of the Year award 2011 and have been highlighted as one of the UK’s progressive law firms at a prestigious legal conference and awards dinner held at the Belfry.

Grant and the other members of the Commercial Team can be contacted on commercial@amdsolicitors.com or telephone 0117 9621205.

Copyright AMD Solicitors

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From the people that brought you the UK’s 2nd largest 80’s Fes val, Let’s Rock Bristol takes place on Saturday June 8th 2013 at Blaise Castle Estate. With an ac on packed day of the best 80’s music at this Bou que, Family Friendly Fes val, there is plenty of general silliness to do for everyone.

Let’s Rock Bristol is set to be the biggest 80's Fes val in the West of England but ckets are limited ‐ so don’t miss your chance to buy your ckets!

Alongside Billy Ocean, Howard Jones, ABC, Nick Heyward, Go West, The Real Thing, Modern Romance, Brother Beyond plus more to follow, there is a lot more on offer. See Dave Benson Phillips (from CBBC/CITV) and other children’s entertainers on the main stage.

In our fantas c Big Top, Professor Panic’s Circus arrives for its first showing at Let’s Rock Bristol! A full programme of events including circus shows, circus workshops, puppet shows, puppet workshops, storytelling, bubble fun games sessions, Balloona cs, s lt walkers and anything else you can think of! They’ll provide enough excitement to fill the whole day, with something extra up their sleeves!

A wide range of rides for all ages including Bumper Boats, Bubbles of Fun, The Banana Boat, Chair‐O‐Planes, Toy Set Roundabouts, The Big Slide and of course, The Dodgems! Plus, our indoor cinema for children of all ages – complete with popcorn and candy!

A fabulous selec on of catering is on offer including Mul ple Bars, award winning Tandoori, The Noodle Bar from Noodle Na on, Gourmet Burgers and Steaks, Burritos, Tradi onal Fish and Chips, Rolls and Bague es, Doughnuts, Ice Cream, Coffee, Cake and more!

Wacky stalls, merchandise and a whole lot more going on, set you up for a great day out.

Tickets are only £35 for Adults, £18 for Children (3‐12) and £80 for a family of 2 Adults and 2 Children! And if you are a resident of BS8, BS9 or BS10 postcodes, you can get 15% off if you buy your ckets before March 1st! See over for details on how to purchase.

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26 Let’s Rock Bristol Prize Wordsearch With the announcement of the Let’s Rock Bristol family festival in Blaise in the summer it seemed appropriate to have an 80’s music theme to the wordsearch this month. So here it is. Nineteen pop bands and singers of the 1980’s are listed below, eighteen of which are included in the grid below. (forward, backwards, up, down or diagonally). See which you can find and let me know which performer is missing. First prize, which has been kindly donated by the festival organisers, is a £64 family ticket to Let’s Rock Bristol ‐ which will gain a family of four (2 adults, 2 children) access to the festival. A cracking prize so well worth entering. Just get your answer to me by 1st March to be in with a chance of winning. Answers please by email to

andy@thebristoleight.co.uk, by post to 8 Sandyleaze, WoT, BS9 3PY, text to 07845 986650, phone to 0117 9687787 or by Twitter to @BS9Andy. Best of luck.

I’m conscious that I’ve omitted to mention the result of previous wordsearch competitions in recent issues, so congratulations to the following on their success ‐ and thanks of course to everybody who has taken the trouble to enter.

Keep trying ‐ someone has to win. In November Penny De Lacy took the biscuits by spotting that garibaldi was missing, and in December Anne Moore won the calendar and coasters by spotting that detonate was the missing word.

Right, here are your bands and singers to look out for:‐

omd billyocean nickheyward gowest howardjones abc therealthing modernromance brotherbeyond alteredimages bananarama garynuman funboythree bronskibeat so cell visage duranduran ultravox haysifantaysi

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28 Computer Corner with Mrs PC The Advantages of Apple’s Macbook Pro Laptop as an alternative to a Windows Laptop.

Macbooks are twice the price of a normal laptop. Are they worth the extra cost? Here are some of the reasons people love them so much: ▪ They are fast to turn on and fast to do everything.

They stay fast all their lives and don’t slow down over time.

▪ You don’t need antivirus software‐ it is included.

▪ The machines are sleek and smart and feel lovely. They are great to type on ‐ the keyboard is fantastic. The trackpad is very clever and can be customized in many ways to suit you. You can expand photos and move screens by swiping or pinching and different amounts of fingers on the pad will do different things if you wish.

▪ If you have an iphone, it is designed to work with it, likewise an ipad.

▪ The software is clever and when you import photos it knows which ones you have already put onto the computer, and only imports the new ones.

▪ They come with an email client already‐ this makes email easier.

▪ You can run Microsoft programmes designed for Mac‐ called Office for Mac so that you can continue to use Word and Excel and don’t have to learn to use Apple’s Pages and Numbers programmes.

▪ They are easy to use, but different from Windows. The close down buttons are on the left for instance, and are different colours instead of a red cross you have a red dot to close down.

▪ They are designed to be idiot‐proof.

▪ They don’t usually fail, but it is best not to be complacent.

▪ Their back up is easy‐ you can back up to iCloud online as standard and if you have a plug in device like an external hard drive, you just plug it in and let the machine do it for you.

▪ You can buy Applecare protection for your Macbook.

For £200, you can protect the hardware, software and

have access to daily support on the phone. This is covered for 3 years. If you don’t know how to do something, ring up anytime 7 days a week until around 9.30pm and get an expert to talk you through it.

▪ You can buy unlimited lessons in the Apple store for £80, either one‐to‐ one or group. You can extend this if you wish. However, this isn’t quite as good as it sounds and generally people only use it for a year and only make it to 4 or so lessons.

▪ You can look at very good videos and tutorials on the Apple website to show you how to do things.

▪ You can go into the shop anytime you like and make an appointment with a “Genius” or expert helper, and have free help for 10‐15 minutes as many times as you like.

▪ They have amazing battery life‐ 10 hours of continuous use‐ so you can take it round the house with you all day or on a long journey and not have to plug it in!

▪ When you do plug in, the plug has a special magnetic connector so if you accidentally knock the wire, it instantly disconnects and doesn't knock your laptop off the surface.

▪ Once you have connected to WiFi in a certain place, you will never have to re connect‐ it does it for you and remembers the details.

Mrs PC’s conclusion is that you get what you pay for. I was converted almost 3 years ago and now would not have anything else for email, Internet and documents. I love the speed of it and use mine all the time and travel with it. Making the transition involves learning new things and some things are very different. Some features are not immediately obvious if you aren’t used to it. Macs do things their own way, and is hard to make them do things your way sometimes this is only a problem for experts really. Macbooks are worth considering next time you need a new laptop! You will get faithful service for many years.

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Hamilton’s Natural Dry Carpet Cleaning We don’t leave you with a wet carpet.

Carpets are DEEP CLEANED, PILE LIFTED and left totally DRY. Toddler and pet safe, non-toxic and environmentally kind.

For a no obligation survey and quotation please call Michael on 0117 908 9843 or 07976 060424 michael.hamilton@blueyonder.co.uk www.hamiltonscarpetcleaning.co.uk

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Valentine’s Quiz

As it is February it would seem wrong not to make a mention of Valentine’s Day in some way, so here’s a little test of your knowledge of love and romance. No prizes, just a bit of sentimental fun. Answers are on page 44 1.

Gerald Rusgrove XXXXX and Charles XXXX founded which publishing company in 1908?

2.

In Shakespeare’s “Romeo & Juliet”, Juliet came from which family?

3.

Who was the Greek goddess of love?

4.

Courtney Love was married to which US rock singer?

5.

Which actor played James Bond in “From Russia With Love”?

6.

Where Brook?

7.

Who had a hit with “Love Plus One” in 1982?

8.

Who captained the USA to defeat in golf’s 2012 Ryder Cup?

9.

What “fruit” has the nickname of a “love apple”?

10.

What is particularly loving about the albatross?

11.

would

you

find

Who summarised the responses on Blind Date?

12.

The beautiful “Lovin’ You” was a number one for which female singer in 1975?

13.

What sort of car was Herbie, the Love Bug?

14.

Who sculpted “The Kiss” in 1889?

15.

Which of these foodstuffs is not generally considered to be an aphrodisiac?

Honey, Oysters, Cream Crackers or Asparagus.

16.

Which famous statue can be found at the junction of Regent Street and Piccadilly?

17.

Name the lead actress and actor from the 1970 film Love Story.

18.

Name Joan Armatrading’s only UK top ten hit.

19.

Emily Bronte’s “ W u t h e r i n g Heights” was written in which decade?

20.

Who was Mellors?

Valentine’s

contestant’s

Oliver

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Boiler / Central Hea ng

Installa ons Landlord Gas Safety Inspec ons Power Flushing Boiler Breakdown Repairs

Email: paulhooper40@googlemail.com

34 Tips for an easier life

February is the shortest month – so it’s time to ‘eat your frog’!

Having set your resolutions in January it’s time to actually get on with it and attempt to complete some of them! It’s likely some of your resolutions are not things you immediately wake up desperate to do, they may be time consuming and you just don’t know where or how to start. It might be sorting out your photos – printing off all those that you have saved on your computer, but would actually like to look at in an album, or sorting out your medicine cabinet or larder, or tackling that tricky email you really need to respond to.

There's an old saying that if the first thing you do in the morning is to eat a live frog, you'll have the satisfaction of knowing that it's probably the worst thing you'll do all day. So if you tackle your most challenging task at the start of the day you will feel you have achieved and can do anything thereafter! There is a book by Brian Tracy called ‘Eat That Frog!’ which shows how successful people don't try to do everything, but instead focus on the most important tasks. He gives tips on effective personal time management: decision, discipline and determination to help you get more of those important tasks done – today – without procrastinating!

It is always helpful to break the task down. So if it’s tackling the photo situation, firstly decide how you’re going to print them off – upload to a website; or save to a USB memory stick and take to a shop? If it’s the latter

Carpet, Vinyl & Laminate Specialists - Mobile Showroom. We have an expert measuring & fitting service with a full range of carpet, vinyl & laminate samples for you to choose in the comfort of your own home. If you would like us to call and give you a free estimate please call on

0117 9663917 or 07944 147485

then allocate (i.e. find!) your USB stick. Make a cup of tea then just sit down at your computer and give yourself half an hour to make a start. You will enjoy reliving the memories when you go through the photos and select the ones you want to print out.

Writing a response to a tricky email straightaway relieves the burden hanging over you ‐ you’ll feel relieved and invigorated and achieve more in your day as a result.

As a reward for ‘eating a frog’ there is another job you can do early this month: plant spring bulbs – maybe snowdrops or daffodils – this can be done during late winter and early spring. They make a big impression and are perfect for chasing away the winter blues.

Louise England is a Lifestyle and Home Assistant and her service aims to free‐up your free time. Her passion is to make a positive difference to people’s lives by helping them sort things out and complete jobs in their homes quickly and efficiently.

Website: www.louiseengland.co.uk Mobile: 07780 474256 Email: louise@louiseengland.co.uk Twitter: @L_England

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37 What’s On & Community Events

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Useful Contacts Gas Emergencies

Electricity Emergencies Water Emergencies Avon & Somerset Police Non‐Emergencies

Crimestoppers

Southmead Hospital Frenchay Hospital

BRI / Children’s Hospital NHS Direct

Bristol Blood Donation The Samaritans

Alcoholics Anonymous ChildLine

National Rail Enquiries Telephone Pref Service Mailing Pref Service

0800 111 999 0800 365 900 0845 600 4 600 101 (new number) 0800 555 111 0117 950 5050 0117 970 1212 0117 923 0000 0845 46 47 0117 988 2040 08457 90 90 90 08457 69 75 55 0800 11 11 08457 48 49 50 0845 070 0707 0845 703 4599

Postal Services Late Post ‐ there is a late post box at the main Post Office sorting depot on the A38 at Filton.

Currently the late post is at 7pm,

Local Libraries Clifton ‐ tel. 903 8572 Redland ‐ tel. 903 8549

Public Transport Visit the excellent Bristol City Council website www.travelbristolorg to plan out your routes in, around or out of the city ‐ whether you are planning to go by bus, train, ferry, air, bike, car or foot.

Recycling and Household Waste The Household Waste and Recycling Centre on Kingsweston Lane, Avonmouth for pretty much everything. The Avonmouth centre is now open winter hours from 8.00am to 4.15pm, 7 days.

La Pe te Grange ‐ “Gite rurale” to let in Gascony, SW France. Recently converted barn. Rural loca on with stunning views towards the Pyrenees. One double bedroom with child bed / cot available on request, and addi onal B&B accommoda on also on site.

For more details visit www.closdecandele.com or call Lavinia or Nicholas on (0033) 05 62 35 39 81 or (0033)06 89 82 49 41

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40 What’s On & Community Events Listings for community events, not for profit clubs and charitable activities are free. If you have something that you would like listed please get in touch by telephoning 0117 9687787 or 07845986650 or emailing andy@thebristoleight.co.uk. The deadline for listings in the March magazine is 18th February ‐ any received after that date will be held over until the April 2013 issue.

This February, Bristol University students are hoping to raise as much money as possible for local charities through the annual RAG (Raising and Giving) week! As the highlight of the RAG calendar, it is full of chances for students to get involved in various fundraising opportunities and raise money for some worthy causes.

As well as events throughout, the week kicks off on Saturday 16th February with the annual RAG procession ‐ a carnival style parade through the streets. Procession is a Bristol tradition, and will be in its 88th year this RAG week!

The Procession starts up at the downs at 1pm and then makes its way down Whiteladies Road, Queens Road and Park Street. With a multitude of vehicles, performers, costumes and music, it really is a sight to behold! Then join us at The Bristol Folk House on Park Street from 2pm onwards for the end celebration where there will be food, drink and entertainment.

It’s a great way to spend an afternoon, and fun for all the family, so come along and get involved!

[Want to get involved? We are still looking for groups to perform along the route and at the end event, so email rag‐procession@ubu.org.uk if you’re interested.]

‘Calendar Girls’ This wonderfully moving and humorous play is being performed by Failand Drama Circle in the Failand Village Hall on March 13th – 16th at 7.30 pm.

Tickets £10 ( which includes 10% cancer charity donation and free programme) can be booked on 01275 393302 or 01275 219363. Don’t delay, tickets for this very popular show are sure to sell out quickly.

“Bristol and Beyond” ‐ 19th January ‐ 28th February.

Pastel Landscapes and Portraits by Linda Alvis. The

Long Gallery, Royal West of England Academy, Queens Road, Bristol, BS8 1PX. . Free Entry. “Reigning Cats and Dogs” also showing in the main galleries. Daily 10am ‐ 5pm. Sunday 11am ‐ 5pm. www.alvisfineart.co.uk

Family Den‐Building Workshops. Come to Leigh Woods and learn to make a fantastic den out of materials found on the woodland floor. Our experienced instructor will teach you everything you need to know to make a cosy woodland dwelling. Tuesday 12th February 2013, times: 10:00‐11:30, 12:00‐13:30 and 14:00 ‐15:30, in Leigh Woods, Bristol BS8 3PZ. Park on North Road and follow the signs to the event.‐ Price: £3 per person.

Booking is essential, online at www.nationaltrust.org.uk/leigh‐woods/things‐to‐see‐ and‐do/events, or by phone on 08442 491895. For more information, please contact Victoria Stanfield, 0117 9731645, or email leighwoods@nationaltrust.org.uk

Bristol Concert Orchestra play 3 great works with an American connection at its 2nd March St George's Bristol concert: Gershwin's Piano Concerto with the critically‐acclaimed soloist Ashley Wass, Bernstein's Candide Overture and Dvorak's 9th Symphony 'from the New World', all conducted by Stefan Hofkes. Tickets £8‐ £15 (concessions £2 discount), children £1 are available online from www.bristolconcertorchestra.org.uk or from St George's Bristol in person, by phone: 0845 40 24 001 or online.

Bristol Gilbert & Sullivan Operatic Society present HMS Pinafore ‐ on 16th‐20th April at the Redgrave Theatre, Percival Rd, Clifton. Tickets £14 Full Price, £11 Concessions available from boxoffice@bristolgsos.co.uk Tel 01179079122 or go online at www.bristolgsos.co.uk.

Bristol Bach Choir will be performing Bach’s B Minor Mass with the accomplished period ensemble Canzona and a superb collection of vocal soloists who all perform frequently with illustrious ensembles such as The Sixteen, Polyphony and the Monteverdi Choir. The concert forms part of St George’s Bristol Baroque Festival of Music and takes place at St George’s, Bristol on Saturday 16 March 2013 at 7.00pm. Tickets cost between £10‐£25 and are available from www.bristolbach.org.uk or on 0117 214 0721.

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42 What’s On & Community Events West Bristol Orchestra. A Chamber Orchestra, playing a wide range of Classical Music arranged for the smaller orchestra, meets at the United Reformed Church, Muller Road on Thursdays 7.15pm.to 9.15pm. Additional String players of Grade5+ standard welcomed. Previous experience of orchestral playing is not essential. For more information, please contact the Secretary on (0117) 968 3998.

Bristol Choral Society holds its annual Come & Sing on Saturday 16 February (10am ‐ 4pm) at Tyndale Baptist Church, Whiteladies Road. This year, Mendelssohn's St Paul will be the work explored under inspirational conductor Adrian Partington. All welcome ‐ £15 (£7.50 u18s) including score hire, hot drinks and cake! Advance booking essential ‐ phone 0117 962 3223 or see www.bristolchoral.co.uk for details and online booking.

Saturday March 23 at Colston Hall: Bristol Choral Society with the English Symphony Orchestra and a quartet of fine soloists performing two wonderfully dramatic Italian works ‐ Rossini's Stabat Mater and Verdi's Four Sacred Pieces. Concert tickets (£10‐£23, u25s £5) from Colston Hall (0117 922 3686) or see www.bristolchoral.co.uk for more details / booking.

Join the ”Sing Acappella” workshop by Avon Harmony.

An opportunity to experience singing four part harmony, acappella style, in a one‐day workshop for all female singers and would be singers. If you enjoy singing, and would like to find out whether this style of singing is for you, join us at Alma Church in Clifton on 9th March or 6th April. The workshops will be led by Avon Harmony Musical Director Alex de Bruin, and leaders of voice sections of the chorus. After each workshop participants can join the rest of the Avon Harmony Chorus to show off their newly acquired harmony skills to families and friends. To find out more see www.avonharmony.co.uk for details, or register your interest by emailing: enquiries@avonharmony.co.uk

Friends of Welsh National Opera (Bristol & West of England) meet regularly at 7.15 pm in the Performing Arts Centre, The Red Maid’s School, Westbury Road. All

are welcome (small charge applies) and more details from Valerie on 01275 844401. On Wednesday 20th February 2013 we feature “It’s not just Bats and Merry Widows!”. Andrew Borkowski explores the charming and very tuneful world of Viennese operetta, richly illustrated by recordings of great singers such as Elizabeth Schwarzkopf and Richard Tauber.

The Bristol Group of the Alpine Garden Society meet once a month in the Methodist Church Hall on Westbury Hill at 7.30pm for talks, plant sales, social occasions and refreshments. Our next meeting is on 15th February when Richard Horswood will be talking about southern Norway. A friendly society where new members are welcome ‐ annual subscription or £2 for visitors. For more details please ring Marion Monahan on 0117 950 3422 or email marionmonahan@myguide.net.

Zumba Gold Class @ Horfield Parish Church Hall every Weds 2pm‐2.45pm (Gold Class) £4.00 per class, for the mature movers aimed at age 55+ (All other ages Including Beginners) Zumba Class @ Orchard School every Thurs 7pm‐8pm Contact Georgina for further details on www.bristolzumba.com or tel: 07545 625089.

Westbury Harriers Running Club meet for a run every Monday and Thursday at 7pm, Coombe Dingle Sports Centre in Stoke Bishop. We are a thriving club consisting of nearly 300 members aged 7 ‐ 70. Training runs cater for all abilities from beginners to advanced. The club has many members who just run for pleasure, but there is also a thriving competitive structure for those who are so inclined! For more information, just turn up on a club night or contact John on professorterry@gmail.com.

More Reading Buddies Wanted! Would you enjoy offering reading and language support to children for whom English is a second language? Can you help them improve their reading ability, benefiting both them as individuals and the wider class? Can you commit to giving one hour of reading time a week in termtime? We are working with ten schools in the Southmead, Horfield and Brentry areas. Training is offered, and your advanced CRB check is paid for by Bristol City Council.

You would read with the same children each week and be part of a growing group of volunteers. For more information please contact Paul Harrod, at

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What can hypnotherapy help with?

Difficul es sleeping Lack of confidence & self esteem Achieving your goals ▪ Public speaking anxiety Exam / interview nerves Anxiety, stress & tension levels Fears and phobias ▪ Weight management Unwanted pa erns of behaviour Nega ve thought pa erns ▪ Stopping smoking Pregnancy and childbirth and much more

If you want 2013 to be a year when you achieve and s ck to your resolu ons then Hypnotherapy could be the answer you are looking for. It combines leading brain research and solu on focused coaching with a state of relaxa on enabling us to come up with solu ons and not problems.

Did you know that the brain is far more recep ve to posi ve input than nega ve? Recent research proves this and once we have decided on a new posi ve course of ac on then the brain will want to support this decision and help to “make it work” for All sessions are completely tailored according us. to your individual needs.

This is fantas c news for any of us who want to make posi ve changes in our lives. I work with many clients from all backgrounds and for many reasons. They all however have one thing in common ‐ the desire to make a posi ve change in their life; changes that they may have been trying to make for a number of years or just recently, changes in behaviour or thought pa erns, at home, at work or in their rela onships. The moment you decide on a posi ve course of ac on your brain will register this firm inten on to change and help you to succeed...this could therefore be as soon as you pick up the phone to book your first, free ini al consulta on.

If you are star ng this new year wan ng to make posi ve changes and are finding this hard on your own do give me a call and I will explain more about how the brain works and how with the aid of Hypnotherapy you can find you way back to being you.

FRE E rela inclu xa on C ded wit D hyp h yo not ur her ap sess ions y

Alison Jones Solu on Focused Clinical Hypnotherapist & Psychotherapist DHP ▪ HPD ▪ MNCH (Reg) ▪ LNCP ▪ CBT (Hyp) SFBT (Hyp) ▪ SFBT Sup (Hyp)

44 What’s On & Community Events paul.harrod@gmail.com, or on 07576 150706.

Volunteers Wanted. Could you help young children with their reading? Do you have a little time to spare each week? Volunteers are required in almost all Bristol's Primary schools usually for half a day a week during term‐time. Some training will be provided. If you are interested in this worthwhile and rewarding activity please contact Vanessa Kitchen of Community Service Volunteers.

Tel: (0117) 9096858 or vckitchen1949@gmail.com.

New Dimensions meets every month and we have talks on a wide range of esoteric subjects. The meetings are held at the Friends’ Meeting House, 126 Hampton Road, Redland, Bristol BS6 6JE. Admission: £5 (including tea/ coffee/biscuits). The next talk will be held on Sunday17 February 2013 at 3pm. The speaker will be Caroline Nettle and the title of her talk is “Detox and Improve your Health.” (www.toxinfreetoday.com) This will be a really interesting and informative talk. Come and meet new like‐minded friends. For further information, please telephone 01749 678 834 or write to: leasurs@tiscali.co.uk

Mahjong. Is there an existing Mahjong group in the Bristol 8 or 9 areas which is looking for new players (beginners), or alternatively is there anyone who would be interested in setting up a group? Please contact Lee on 0790 567 2979.

The Bristol Grandparents' Support Group. If you are a grandparent who is going through the trauma of not being able to have contact with your grandchildren, due to family breakdown, a Bristol support group has been set up. We meet every two months at 9, Park Grove, Westbury Park, Bristol, BS6 7XB. FFI please visit www.bristolgrandparentssupportgroup.co.uk, contact Jane Jackson tel. 0117 9246496, mobile 07773 258270, or email jackson.jane@me.com.

Bristol & Clifton Dickens’ Society will meet at Westmoreland Hall, Redland, on Thursday 14th March at 7.30pm where Liz Croucher will be presenting

“Danger ‐ Women at Work”. For more details please contact Eveline Fitt on 0755 2939392 or email eve.fitt@btinternet.com.

The Bristol and Gloucestershire Archaeological Society: Next meeting will be on Monday 25th February at 7.45 pm in The Apostle Room, Clifton Cathedral, Pembroke Road, BS8. “Abona – A town of the Past in a Place of the Present”. This lecture will be given by Paul Driscoll, Archaeological Officer, S. Gloucestershire Council and Peter Insole, Archaeological Officer, Bristol City Council.

Community archaeology work at Sea Mills in Bristol is slowly beginning to unravel evidence of the port side of the Roman town of Abona. Volunteers have been utilising test pit excavations and a range of other techniques to piece together the history of the site and place it within the wider context of Roman Bristol and the South West.

The Bristol Eight ‐ The views expressed by contributors or advertisers in The Bristol Eight are not necessarily those held

by The Editor. The inclusion of any business or organisation in this magazine does not imply a recommendation of it, its aims or its methods. The Bristol Eight cannot be held responsible for information disclosed by advertisers, all of which are accepted in good faith. Reasonable efforts are made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained in this magazine but no liability can be accepted for any loss or inconvenience caused as a result of inclusion, error or omission. All content is the copyright of The Bristol Eight and may not be reproduced without the prior written consent of the Editor of The Bristol Eight magazine.

Quiz Answers from page 32 ‐ 1. Mills & Boon; 2.

Capulet; 3. Aphrodite; 4. Kurt Cobain; 5. Sean Connery; 6. Aintree racecourse; 7. Haircut 100; 8.

Davis Love III; 9. the tomato; 10. It will mate for life; 11. “our Graham”; 12. Minnie Riperton; 13. VW Beetle; 14. Auguste Rodin; 15. Cream Crackers; 16.

Eros; 17. Ali MacGraw and Ryan O’Neal; 18. “Love and Affection”; 19. 1840’s; 20. Lady Chatterley’s Lover.

Get In Touch! andy@thebristoleight.co.uk 8 Sandyleaze, WoT, BS9 3PY 0117 968 7787 / 07845 986650 Tweet @BS9Andy

Deadline for March issue ‐ 18 February

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Great Western Air Ambulance Charity (GWAAC), providers of an air ambulance for the 2.1m residents of our region, are encouraging people to support their cause this February as part of a new initiative called “Love Your Air Ambulance” month.

The charity, based in Filton, Bristol, is currently trying to raise £250,000 of additional funds for a new Eurocopter EC 135 helicopter in order to replace the ageing Bölkow 105 model that it currently uses. A new helicopter would attend to patients four minutes faster, would allow a mother and child to fly to hospital together and would allow more space for the patient, equipment and mid‐air treatment.

During February, local businesses, schools and community groups are being encouraged to “love” their air ambulance by wearing red or pink for a dress down day, by holding a raffle or a heart themed cake sale.

In 2010, Ian Taylor, 63, suffered a cardiac arrest while out with family in Gloucestershire and was attended to by the air ambulance at the scene, before being transferred to the intensive care unit at Bristol Royal Infirmary Hospital.

Ian visited the air ambulance’s base in Filton to thank the crew that went to his aid, and in support of Love Your Air Ambulance month said: “Without the critical

care support I received from the Great Western Air Ambulance, I wouldn’t be here today. It’s amazing to think such a vital service is actually a charity, so in addition to the medical team, thank you to everyone who generously donates to the organisation, which made my invaluable care possible.”

John Christensen, Chief Executive of GWAAC, said “The air ambulance attends on average one cardiac arrest per day. With love and hearts normally at the forefront of people’s minds during February, we thought that this would be the perfect time to remind the people of our region that in order to continue operating, our charity relies on the support of the people that we serve as we receive no Government or National Lottery funding. You never know when you might need us, and that’s why it’s so important for people to support our cause and to help keep our air ambulance flying.”

For more information about Love Your Air Ambulance month and to get involved with a fundraising activity, please contact Emma Carter on 0303 4444 999, email emma.carter@greatwesternairambulance.com or visit www.loveyourairambulance.com

Posi ve Health and Happiness Restore your well‐being and get back on top with a personalised programme of holis c therapies and mentoring Relax and revitalise with reflexology, aromatherapy massage and energy healing Create the happy, healthy life you desire with encouragement and support

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Half-price joining fee.

Please contact Georgina Brown for details on 01275 393474 ext. 5

At Bristol and Clifton Golf Club we are known for our warm welcome, excellent course and practice facilities. Our beautiful, mature parkland golf course is always immaculately maintained to the very highest standards and provides an enjoyable challenge that engages with golfers of all abilities.

The course regularly hosts both the English Golf Union and English Women's Golf Association events and has earned its reputation as one of the finest in the region.

www.bristolandcliftongolfclub.co.uk Â

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