The Bristol Eight - March 2016 by Andy Fraser

A free community magazine delivered each month through 8,000 letterboxes across Hotwells, Cliftonwood and Clifton The Bristol Eight - 07845 986650 / 0117 259 1964 - andy@bcmagazines.co.uk

The Bristol Eight - 07845 986650 / 0117 259 1964 - andy@bcmagazines.co.uk

CLIFTON OFFICE: 0117

974 1741 WESTBURY ON TRYM OFFICE: 0117 962 2299

Clifton – Guide Price ‐ £375,000.

Redland ‐ Sold STC

Superb & stylish purpose built second loor apartment located in this sought after Clifton location adjacent to Bristol Zoo and overlooking Durdham Downs. Outside there are small established communal gardens, larger than average single garage with the option to park in front of it plus visitor parking. EPC – C

Investment Opportunity. An extremely spacious four bedroom upper loor maisonette situated in an attractive Victorian building overlooking Lovers Walk on Redland Grove. The lat is currently let as a HMO and is producing £21,600 rental income per year. Tenants have been put in place for the 2016/17 academic year at £22,320 per annum. EPC – E

Clifton – Guide Price ‐ £575,000

The property is let until 30th June 2016. A mid terraced modern townhouse with stylish accommodation arranged over four loors. The spacious accommodation including two roof terraces plus a courtyard garden, offers four bedrooms, three bathrooms, an open plan living space and top loor reception room. EPC – D

Cliftonwood ‐ Sold STC

Clifton ‐ £159,950

A 2 double bedroom end of terrace Victorian townhouse situated in the sought after Clifton Wood area with private rear courtyard garden. The well proportioned accommodation mainly comprises fully itted kitchen with window and door providing access to the rear courtyard garden, spacious sitting room to the front. EPC – E

Modern one bedroom retirement apartment situated in an attractive building in central Clifton. Avon Court is a welcoming managed development of one and two bedroom lats speci ically for independent living for those over 60 years of age. There is a resident site manager, an active social scene centred around the attractive residents lounge which in turn opens onto a landscaped rear garden. EPC – C

Call us today 0117 962 2299 / 0117 974 1741 for a FREE market appraisal | Here to accommodate

The Editor’s Small Piece Hello there dear reader(s). I hope this finds you in good health as we launch into springtime ‐ a time of daffodils, warm drizzle and seasonal optimism. I can see plenty of the first two of these as I look out of the office window, and this coming weekend I’ll be doing plenty of looking out of the window in pursuit of the seasonal optimism. The reason ‐ a twelve hour round trip to Newcastle on the train to watch my team take on “the Toon” in the fight for Premier League survival. The last time I ventured to St Jamesʹ Park beer was 60p a pint and my pre‐match meal was deep fried haggis and chips. Prices and my alcohol tolerance have changed dramatically since then (one much higher, one significantly lower) but I’m confident I can still find a tasty northern snack before kick off. I hope you enjoy the Easter break at the end of the month, whether you spend it in spiritual reflection, an orgy of chocolate or the warmth of the family ‐ or indeed on the terraces. Cheers for now, Andy the Editor Deadline for the April issue ‐ 18th March !

The Bristol Eight - 07845 986650 / 0117 259 1964 - andy@bcmagazines.co.uk

open winter hours from 8.00am to 16.15 7 days a week.

Useful Informa on Contact Numbers Gas Emergencies Electricity Emergencies Water Emergencies Avon & Somerset Police Non‐Emergencies Crimestoppers Southmead Hospital Bristol Royal Infirmary Bristol Children’s Hospital NHS non‐emergency Bristol Blood Dona on The Samaritans Alcoholics Anonymous ChildLine Na onal Rail Enquiries

Bristol City Council 0800 111 999 0800 365 900 0845 600 4600 101 (new no.) 0800 555 111 0117 950 5050 0117 923 0000 0117 342 8460 111 0117 988 2040 08457 909090 0845 76975 55 0800 11 11 08457 484950

Postal Services Late Post ‐ there is a late post box at the main Post Oﬃce sor ng depot on the A38 at Filton. Currently the late post is at 7pm. Local Libraries Cli on ‐ tel. 903 8572 Mon, Weds, Fri, Sat ‐ 10.00 to 13.00 and 14.00 to 17.00 Redland ‐ tel. 903 8549 Mon, Tues, Fri, Sat ‐ 09.30 to 17.00, Thurs ‐ 09.30 to 19.00, Sunday ‐ 13.00 to 16.00 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 Centres at Avonmouth and St Phillips on Kingsweston Lane, Avonmouth are now

www.bristol.gov.uk 0117 922 2000 Trains to / From Temple Meads Trains depart from Cli on Down Sta on to Temple Meads at the following mes ‐ Mon‐Fri 0625, 0643, 0740, 0816, 0849, 0929, 1016, 1049, 1130, 1216, 1248, 1330, 1416, 1448, 1531, 1616, 1647, 1729, 1816, 1911, 1945, 2016, 2151, 2232, 2316 Sat 0647, 0731, 0816, 0847, 0930, 1016, 1048, 1131, 1216, 1246, 1331, 1416, 1448, 1531, 1616, 1647, 1731, 1816, 1929, 2009, 2152, 2231, 2316 Sun 1008, 1104, 1204, 1304, 1404, 1504, 1604, 1707, 1806, 1834 Trains depart from Bristol Temple Meads to Cli on Down at the following mes ‐ Mon‐Fri 0514, 0548, 0630, 0703, 0803, 0836, 0916, 1003, 1034, 1116, 1203, 1234, 1316, 1403, 1434, 1516, 1603, 1635, 1713, 1803, 1847, 1933, 2034, 2137, 2216 Sat 0603, 0634, 0716, 0803, 0834, 0916, 1003, 1034, 1116, 1203, 1234, 1316, 1403, 1434, 1516, 1603, 1634, 1716, 1803, 1903, 2034, 2140, 2216 Sun 0908, 1023, 1123, 1223, 1323, 1423, 1523, 1623, 1652, 1753 Journey me is approximately 15 minutes in each direc on

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Craniosacral Therapy Spring is on its way and Nature is showing us this in many ways as new things are emerging a er winter's rest and renewal. There is a promise of lighter and warmer days and we can feel a surge in our own energy in response to this. When we are feeling well and healthy there is a sense of aliveness, openness and spaciousness in the cells, ssues and fluids of our bodies, a sense of wellbeing. The stresses, traumas and injuries we can experience can shut down these natural processes in our bodies. Maybe your energy levels are s ll wan ng to rest and recharge. Our kidney energy can o en become depleted over winter. It's not just an old wives’ saying about keeping your kidneys warm! Craniosacral therapy is a way of working with the body and of having an awareness that there is a connec on between the body and the mind. The stress and trauma that gets held in the body can be felt as tension or pain and may lead to a variety of condi ons such as back pain, headaches and migraines, as well as emo onal or psychological problems such as anxiety, depression or sleeping diﬃcul es. Craniosacral therapy uses a gentle non‐invasive touch to work with the craniosacral mo on and the compressive pa erns held in the body. It is suitable for all ages from the newborn to the elderly. Indeed, craniosacral therapy is probably best well known for its work with babies and children, for example working with birth trauma and specific concerns around sleeping, crying or feeding. Clients remain clothed during a session. Areas of the body such as your head and base of the spine will be lightly contacted. Because your body func ons as a whole, areas other than where your symptoms occur may be worked with too. Sessions last 1 hour and are cumula ve in eﬀect. Some clients report relief a er only one or two sessions. For long standing problems further sessions may be needed. For more details of our craniosacral therapies please contact Claire A ridge at The Chiron Centre

The Bristol Eight - 07845 986650 / 0117 259 1964 - andy@bcmagazines.co.uk

Bristol Energy are a new national gas and electricity supplier from Bristol, for Bristol. Created by Bristol City Council in 2015 to be a force for social good, they pride themselves on powering the community as well as your home.

Better for customers Giving everyone access to straightforward, fairly priced tariffs and great customer care.

Better for Bristol They reinvest the money they make right here in Bristol, supporting council services to citizens and community projects. So when you’re with Bristol Energy every flick of a switch does good for the community around you. Managing Director Peter Haigh, sums up the basic appeal of Bristol Energy: “We have to pay energy bills anyway, so why not pay them to a company that will spend the profits on local services and projects?” “Around 40,000 households in Bristol have never switched supplier before and so are likely to be paying higher standard variable tariffs.”

The power’s in your hands – make your switch count.

To switch visit bristol-energy.co.uk or call us free on 0808 281 2222.

The Bristol Eight - 07845 986650 / 0117 259 1964 - andy@bcmagazines.co.uk

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203 Whiteladies Road, Clifton, Bristol, BS8 2XT March. And typically at this time of year as gardens in Bristol start to blossom, many people turn to thoughts of moving home. There has been much more activity in the last couple of weeks as potential sellers and landlords invite us in to assess and advise on property value and marketing. At the end of this month we’ll see a change in second home stamp duty but on the ground all the current feedback suggests that bricks and mortar are still a preferred option for many investors. Whether you are investing, relocating, up or downsizing, selling or letting, there is little doubt that Bristol remains a property hotspot. Media pundits continue to extol its virtues as a dynamic, growing city and the continued new build and regeneration work in the centre is testament to that. I suggested on these pages earlier this year that it would be prudent to give careful consideration to any move. That advice stands. Employ experts you trust in every step of the process. Best Wishes, Howard Davis MD For any property related matter the team at CJ Hole Clifton would be delighted to help, just call us on 0117 923 8238

For Sale – Clifton - £295,000 For Sale – Clifton - £195,000 Two bedroom top floor flat in Clifton, just a short walk One bedroom first floor flat which forms part of the to Clifton Down and Whiteladies Rd. Offered with no converted All Saints Church. Convenient location for onward chain. EPC E Clifton Village, The Triangle and Whiteladies Rd. EPC C

www.cjhole.com Clifton Sales 0117 923 8238 The Bristol Eight - 07845 986650 / 0117 259 1964 - andy@bcmagazines.co.uk

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clifton@cjhole.co.uk

SOLD – Failand – More Required A detached bungalow requiring modernisation offering: two bedrooms, kitchen/breakfast room, lounge/diner, conservatory, bathroom and separate cloakroom. EPC F

SOLD – Clifton – More Required A top floor flat in a very attractive period building. The interior offers: kitchen/breakfast room, two bedrooms, living room, bathroom and en suite. EPC E

To Let – Clifton - £950 PCM plus fees A MUST SEE! A one double bedroom apartment. The property retains original features and has been recently refurbished. Available immediately on an unfurnished basis. EPC C

To Let – Hotwells - £800 pcm plus fees This ground floor flat offers: double bedroom with en suite shower room, open plan kitchen/living room and separate WC. Available immediately on an unfurnished basis. EPC D

Let – Clifton – More Required Two double bedroom top floor apartment with period features. The property comprises: two double bedrooms, lounge leading to a balcony, kitchen/ breakfast room and bathroom. EPC D

Let – Clifton – More Required A charming period property on the edge of The Downs. The interior offers two reception rooms, kitchen, double bedroom, bathroom and dressing room/study. EPC E

Clifton Lettings 0117 946 6588 www.cjhole.com The Bristol Eight - 07845 986650 / 0117 259 1964 - andy@bcmagazines.co.uk

Carolyn Park on golfing holidays

Tournament held at the end of April every year. Sandals resorts oﬀer complimentary green fees at their resorts in St Lucia, Jamaica and the gorgeous Emerald Bay in the Bahamas. So if you fancy a relaxing holiday with a few social rounds this could be the op on for you.

I got bi en by the golfing bug 12 years ago living in South Africa. It was diﬃcult to avoid: the weather was warm and the beau ful courses in great condi on. Since the early 2000’s, I have worked down from a beginner of 36 handicap to a Canary Islands respectable 12, cu ng my teeth in some Closer to home, Tenerife has some super courses wonderful loca ons. and the Abama (pictured below) is a real treat with great views, Costa Adeje, Buenavista, Las South Africa Americas, golf Del Sur as well as the Jardin Tecina Star ng in South Africa, I am on a personal on the neighbouring island of La Gomera means challenge to play all of the top 100 courses the country has to oﬀer – I have about 40 to go. One plenty of op ons. of my favourites is Leopard Creek, perched right on the edge of the Kruger Na onal Park. The half‐ way house “tea” is legendary and wouldn’t look out of place in the Ritz. Wildlife abounds, and you may even meet the resident hippo in the dam on the 13th (from a safe distance, please).

Having banked some incredible golfing experiences, I am forever in search of the next des na on. Top of my wish list is New Zealand – Cape Kidnappers and Kauri Cliﬀs on the North Island look amazing! I’ll leave you with my Top 5 ps for any golfer taking to the skies.. Whether you s ck to Cape Town, head along the Garden route, enjoy the tropical surrounds of Durban or try your luck at Sun City, this is a wonderful des na on for golf and so much more.

‐ Check which airlines carry golf clubs for free. We favour Virgin Atlan c going to South Africa & the Caribbean as club carriage is free. ‐ Check average temperatures. It may be worth Middle East ge ng up for an early tee me to beat the heat The Middle East is an up and coming golf or tropical a ernoon downpours. des na on and a recent visit to Abu Dhabi let me ‐ Take plenty of water ‐ it is all too easy to experience the Abu Dhabi Golf Club and iconic dehydrate. falcon‐styled clubhouse. Watching the HSBC event ‐ Look out for tournaments or compe ons you this year took us back to standing over the birdie can play in – it saves money and you will meet pu on the 18th in front of the club house – sadly locals. I missed it! Yas Links and Saadiyat Beach are also ‐ Check that the crocodile statue on the back of great courses and, for something diﬀerent, Abu the 1st tee is actually a statue… Dhabi has a 9 hole floodlit course. Lots of good reports on the Dubai courses as well and these two can always be combined into one trip. Caribbean The Caribbean, par cularly in Barbados, are a real treat. We found it be er value to enter a tournament than pay green fees so if you fancy a challenge ask for details of the Sir Garry Sobers

33 North View, Westbury Park, BS6 7PT 0117 428 0570 www.ctheworld.co.uk

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It’s almost me for this year’s Budget!

receives relief at 20%.

Another Budget will soon be upon us and once again George Osbourne will be telling us of tax changes coming our way.

There has been talk of replacing this with a flat rate relief and a figure of 25% has been put forward. Basic rate tax payers would find their pensions boosted but higher earners would lose out. Whether you consider this fair or not may depend on your own circumstances, but any move to reduce tax relief may deter higher earners form contribu ng to their pension and the increased relief may not be suﬃcient for everyone else to contribute more. The result may be a reduc on in pension savings rather than an increase.

Last summer’s budget contained some unpleasant surprises for both landlords and small business owners and then landlords were hit again in the Autumn statement as higher stamp duty charges were levied on second proper es. The announced changes have not yet come into eﬀect but will do so from April and company directors and landlords should be speaking to their advisers now about any ac on that they might need to make before 5 April.

If you are a higher rate taxpayer and are considering the payment of a pension contribu on, then speaking to your pension So what announcements can we expect to hear in adviser before the budget may be worthwhile. Un l next month… this year’s budget? One major possibility is further changes to the tax treatment of pension contribu ons. Recent changers have restricted the contribu ons that some very high earners have been able to obtain, but further changes may be on their way and could impact on those with a more modest income. At present relief is given at your highest tax rate and so a higher rate tax payer receives tax relief at 40% whereas a basic rate tax payer

If you have any par cular ques ons you would like covered, please do get in touch ‐ @wilkinsonpartners.co.uk Phil Jones is a director of local independent tax and accountancy firm Wilkinson & Partners based on Jacob Wells here in BS8.

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Research project looking for mums‐to‐be with family history of eczema Researchers at the University of Bristol are looking for pregnant women to take part in a study into preven ng babies developing eczema. The study, called Barrier Enhancement for Eczema Preven on (BEEP), aims to recruit 1,300 babies and find out if the applica on of non‐cosme c moisturisers, along with best prac ce skin care advice, could prevent the onset of eczema in high‐risk babies. Pregnant women (or women who have very recently given birth) in the West of England, who have eczema, asthma or hay fever in the immediate family, are being invited to par cipate in the study. The babies will be split into two groups, with both groups given the best skin care advice, but with one group, decided at random, asked to supplement that best prac ce advice with emollients. These non ‐cosme c moisturisers so en the skin and are already in common use by people with eczema.

How can I find out more? To find out more informa on visit: www.beepstudy.org Alterna vely contact the study team by calling 0117 331 4575 or emailing beep‐study@bristol.ac.uk Funding acknowledgement “1. The National Institute for Health Research Health Technology Assessment (NIHR HTA) Programme funds research about the effectiveness, costs, and broader impact of health technologies for those who use, manage and provide care in the NHS. It is the largest NIHR programme and publishes the results of its research in the Health Technology Assessment journal, with over 700 issues published to date. The journal’s 2014 Impact Factor (5.027) ranked it two out of 85 publications in the Health Care Sciences and Services category. All issues are available for download, free of charge, from the website. The HTA Programme is funded by the NIHR, with contributions from the CSO in Scotland, NISCHR in Wales, and the HSC R&D Division, Public Health Agency in Northern Ireland. www.nets.nihr.ac.uk/programmes/hta 2. The National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) is funded by the Department of Health to improve the health and wealth of the nation through research. Since its establishment in April 2006, the NIHR has transformed research in the NHS. It has increased the volume of applied health research for the benefit of patients and the public, driven faster translation of basic science discoveries into tangible benefits for patients and the economy, and developed and supported the people who conduct and contribute to applied health research. The NIHR plays a key role in the Government’s strategy for economic growth, attracting investment by the life-sciences industries through its world-class infrastructure for health research. Together, the NIHR people, programmes, centres of excellence and systems represent the most integrated health research system in the world. For further information, visit the NIHR website (www.nihr.ac.uk). This article presents independent research funded by the National Institute for Health Research (NIHR). The views expressed are those of the author(s) and not necessarily those of the NHS, the NIHR or the Department of Health.” The Bristol Eight - 07845 986650 / 0117 259 1964 - andy@bcmagazines.co.uk

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Blair in the 1994 Labour Party leadership election.

No Prize General Knowledge Quiz 1.

The first and last books of the King James Bible are Genesis and Revelation. Name the second and the penultimate book.

In what year was the UK £1 note formally withdrawn from circulation?

What are the following medical classifications primarily concerned with ‐ Pharmacology, Haematology, and Otalaryngology?

From south to north put these English cities in order ‐ Ely, Lichfield, Ripon, Canterbury, St Albans, Chester. 9. Name the songs that these one‐hit wonders got to number 1 in the UK charts ‐ Musical Youth (l), The Floaters, 10. The Simon Park Orchestra, Sam Bailey, and Ricky Valance (r).

11.

Name the capital cities of the following 12. countries ‐ Syria, Lebanon, Iran, Iraq and Afghanistan.

Which, on average, is the heaviest organ of the human body? Which high street name listed in the current FTSE100 (Financial Times Stock Exchange Index) employs most people? Name the next 3 people in the following sequence ‐ Percy Thrower, Arthur Billitt, Geoﬀ Hamilton….

How many calories in a) a standard Dairylea cheese triangle, b) a medium hens egg, c) a standard Curly Wurly, and d) a pint of skimmed milk?

In what year was the Hindenburg disaster?

13.

With which sports do you associate the following “well known” tunes ‐ “The Chain” by Fleetwood Mac, “Soul Limbo” by Booker T. & the M.G.’s, and “Drag Racer” by the Doug Wood

Name the following politicians ‐ the leader of the Conservative Party before 14. David Cameron, the current leader of the Liberal Democrats, and the politician who was runner up to Tony

Band? What linked London in 1665 to Stockholm in 1710? (answers on page 44)

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The Bristol Eight - 07845 986650 / 0117 259 1964 - andy@bcmagazines.co.uk

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Mrs PC Friendly Computer Training Wanted Volunteers for a computer study. Calling all readers for help. I recently heard from Poppy Seager, who is seeking volunteers over 65 with no experience of computers. Here is a copy of her email to me. It would be so wonderful to be able to help her. Please do get in touch with her direct.

individuals that cannot make it here. If you do know anyone that may be willing to volunteer and want more information we would really like to have their valuable thoughts. I can be contacted via email or phone: E‐mail: poppy.seager@ndcn.ox.ac.uk Telephone Number: 07854511856

It is a real privilege to work with people with no computer experience, and to open their eyes to the possibility that the Internet can provide. Helping to send their first email is so exciting, and easy, Dear Mrs PC, and I love seeing the excitement that doing a first search on Google can bring. I am writing to you on behalf of a UK‐wide Modern tablets are very intuitive, and a research study upon healthy ageing and the lot can be worked out by anyone who is benefits of physical exercise. This is a project curious. I always encourage my students funded by the National Institute for Health to explore and click away, and not to fear Research, AGE UK and the University of any consequences. There is nothing to Oxford that will be carried out amongst lose by being inquisitive, and much to several universities including Bristol, Bath learn. This is how young children get to and Exeter. It will involve individuals aged 65 grips with technology. and over with mobility diﬃculties undertaking a 12 month exercise programme and several In my lessons, there is no pressure. You assessments will be carried out over this time. will be working on your own computer in Before initiating this research, we would like to gain some feedback on how accessible older adults find using our computer‐based activities. It would be extremely helpful if you know of anyone attending your computer training aged 65 and over who are not familiar with computers, ideally completely computer illiterate, that would be interested in having a go at these. One activity will involve completing a laptop based activity with a range of tasks such as “snap” and quizzes. The other will be using a touch screen computer to complete a memory task.

your own home, at your own pace. Whatever we cover is written down, so that when you try doing it alone, there is a crib sheet to follow. So if you are someone who is thinking about getting your first iPad or laptop, you need not worry about how to use it.

This will be based at CRICBristol on St Michaelʹs hill and reimbursement will be made for travel expenses, however, if necessary we can make arrangements for us to visit The Bristol Eight - 07845 986650 / 0117 259 1964 - andy@bcmagazines.co.uk

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know how to impart their knowledge. When people have grown up with technology, they can’t remember how they learned, and they never experienced the same frustrations. They are also more Mrs PC can also provide experienced willing to take a chance and try things out technicians to set up a new device. When to solve problems. A lot of my job they do this, they will always leave notes involves giving people the confidence to on any passwords that are created. This try things, and giving lots of way, passwords never become the encouragement (and homework) so that minefield that they often are when nothing they can begin to enjoy IT. is ever written down or explained. This can be very tedious and time consuming to Age is no barrier to learning. I teach folk unravel. from their mid 40’s to 95 of all experiences, from beginners to advanced users. There There are many folk I teach whose families is always something to be gained from a have “taught” their relations how to use lesson, even if it is only to give a few their technology, and they have become shortcuts that will save time in a busy life. frustrated and discouraged that they haven’t caught on. The thing is, that most Happy Computing! people’s children or grandchildren aren’t Mrs PC patient, are not trained teachers, and don’t

The Bristol Eight - 07845 986650 / 0117 259 1964 - andy@bcmagazines.co.uk

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Coaching with Anne Miller Limi ng Assump ons Working with a client recently I got curious about a belief they held about themselves. The implica ons of this belief were undermining their confidence and self‐esteem and I wondered about the assump ons that lay behind this belief. Beyond our session this got me thinking about the power of assump ons and then curious about ones that I might be making myself. The recent news of David Bowie’s death followed so soon by that of Alan Rickman’s, both aged 69 was both a shock and a reminder of the uncertainty of life. This had an unexpected impact on me and I know has touched many people in diﬀerent ways. The shock very quickly alerted me to an assump on I was making about my longevity that I might need to review. On the surface an assump on that I will have a long life sounds good to me. It feels posi ve and encourages me to look a er my health. So it came as a bit of a surprise that there were any nega ve consequences of believing this. For me, this was that a long life might mean a long re rement period and the fear of living a slow life for a long period was quite daun ng. Whilst re rement and ‘slow life’ are not synonymous, for me there was a subconscious connec on and this I realised was a limi ng assump on!

assump on around my longevity, perhaps more lightly. This allows me to think about all the things I want to fit into my re rement phase of life and this is hugely refreshing. It is interes ng to experience for myself, the power of ques oning an assump on having witnessed my clients’ enlightening moments, when a shi happens and a new perspec ve is found. Assump ons can be helpful and unhelpful and even both simultaneously. O en they are not right or wrong but beliefs we have adopted that, for some reason, suit us at the me. It is worth pausing to think about the assump ons we are making and ask ourselves ‘what if…?’ If you’re resis ng a career break for fear of it looking bad on your C.V. perhaps that’s an assump on worth ques oning. What if this broader experience would be seen as an asset by the sort of employer you would like to be working for? If you’re worried that star ng your own business would expose you to too many risks, perhaps there are some assump ons in there that can be usefully challenged. What if you break down your fears and address them one by on? If you’re facing or considering a transi on you’re likely to be making a number of assump ons. Ques oning whether they are true in whole or in part and what alterna ve libera ng assump ons could be adopted may just give you a window on a new perspec ve. I hope by sharing my story I might spark some curiosity in you to wonder about any assump ons you might be making and be prepared to challenge them with a ‘what if…?

Visit www.annemillercoaching.co.uk for more informa on, and to book a free consulta on please tel. 07722 110228 Ques oning this assump on of longevity has revealed an underlying limi ng assump on and freed me up with a new perspec ve. I’m actually s ll amazed at the impact this has had on me: this further limi ng assump on has now completely disappeared! What I now see is something far more posi ve and libera ng. I s ll hold my

Working with a coach you will gain new perspec ves empowering you to make be er choices and achieve posi ve change.

The Bristol Eight - 07845 986650 / 0117 259 1964 - andy@bcmagazines.co.uk

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THE IMPORTANCE OF HONESTY IN FINANCIAL NEGOTIATIONS DURING DIVORCE ALISON DUKES, a Family Law specialist with AMD SOLICITORS, comments on the proper approach to financial disclosure if parties to a divorce want any agreement they reach to be final.

In both these cases the amounts involved were substantial and the Supreme Court found that the husbands had both been misleading and fraudulent in their approach to financial disclosure and that this had been material to the outcome of the respective settlements. In one of the cases the court set aside a previous financial consent order and in the other a draft order agreed between the parties was not sealed by the court.

All parties involved in divorce proceedings have a duty to make a “full and frank” When a marriage breaks down and the disclosure of their financial circumstances. If parties are attempting to reach a financial they deliberately mislead their former spouse settlement one of the first steps that they then a court will consider the non disclosure need to take is to exchange financial to be material and it will be presumed that disclosure. Quite often this will be within what proper disclosure would have led to another is known as a Form E which is quite a outcome unless the party at fault can show, lengthy form prescribed by the court for use on the balance of probabilities, that it would in Financial Remedy Proceedings, which are not have done so. issued where parties are unable to reach an agreement through negotiation, mediation or The test when non disclosure is inadvertent using the collaborative process. is different. There is no presumption that the failure to disclose is material and it will be up The end of the form includes a “Statement of to the other party to show that proper Truth” and a warning that “Proceedings for disclosure would, on the balance of contempt of court may be brought against a probabilities, have led to a different order. person who makes or causes to be made, a false statement”. In order to ensure that the terms of settlement on divorce are final, it is essential Clearly parties need to be able to rely on the that there has been honesty on both sides. information that their former spouse Otherwise, a court order based on fraudulent discloses and to make an informed decision misrepresentation is likely to be set aside if about any settlement offer that is made. evidence of the fraud emerges later. Parties What happens then when parties reach an to a divorce should be careful to ensure that agreement after one of them has deliberately their financial disclosure is accurate, as even hidden or undervalued one or more of their an inadvertent failure to disclose an asset or assets? its real value can lead to the terms of a previously agreed order being set aside. In 2015 the Supreme Court considered two cases brought by ex-wives to re-open their For advice on divorce, financial provision or claims for financial provision against their any other family law issues contact Alison husbands because they had been misled by Dukes on 0117 9621205 or email them at the time that they reached their alisondukes@amdsolicitors.com. financial settlements. Alison is based at our office at 100 Henleaze Road, Henleaze, BS9 4JZ. www.amdsolicitors.com © AMD Solicitors 2016

The Bristol Eight - 07845 986650 / 0117 259 1964 - andy@bcmagazines.co.uk

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Want to lose weight? Have you thought of hypnotherapy to help you?

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

All sessions are completely tailored according to your individual needs.

FREE relaxa on CD included with your hypnotherapy sessions

Summer s ll feels a long way off with cold wintery weather outside but hopefully we will soon get some weather warm enough to remove our thick winter woolies and if we do you may want to ensure that you are feeling and looking great. Many of us know exactly what we need to do to lose weight however o en the ideas seem so much easier than actually achieving our goals. Hypnotherapy can help you change the way you think about food and work towards your ideal weight in a different way. No feelings of guilt, craving forbidden foods or coun ng calories, just understanding what you personally need to do to lose weight. With the help of hypnotherapy you can take control of your ea ng habits to lose weight and keep in control of what you eat & when you eat it. If you have not considered solu on focused hypnotherapy before why not come along for a free ini al consulta on and I will explain how the mind works and how we may be able to help you to improve your confidence and make the changes you want in your life to help you feel you’re back to the real you. Book your free ini al consulta on during March quo ng “Bristol 6/8/9” and you will receive a £10 discount off each session.

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

FOR A FREE CONSULTATION CONTACT

ALISON JONES m: 07730 747 772 e: Alison@solu onshypnotherapy.co.uk

w: www.solu onshypnotherapy.co.uk The Cli on Prac ce, 8‐10 Whiteladies Road, Cli on, BS8 1PD The Bristol Eight - 07845 986650 / 0117 259 1964 - andy@bcmagazines.co.uk

Good Reads with Bruce Fellows

good because he finds sleep impossible. Meanwhile a neighbour earns a precarious and illegal living by digging out badgers, which groups of men will then bait with dogs. As the police begin sniﬃng around, the two stories build to a shocking climax.

In chapter one of Daniel Kehlmann’s Fame, Ebling starts receiving calls for someone named Ralf. Irritated, Ebling begins answering the calls at random. He closes deals Corrupt rulers, the escape and breaks off relationships to the country, dramas of for Ralf willy‐nilly – poor dysfunctional families just old Ralf. In other chapters a like Eastend ers; nothing writer suffers a Kafkaesque much has changed in two loss of identity in a foreign country; Rosalie and a half millennia goes to die at Dignitas; Mollwitz disgraces Natalie Haynes argues in himself at a conference. Chapters stand alone The Ancient Guide to as gripping stories in themselves but then link Modern Life, her together to form a skilful, thought‐provoking discussion of the best and often side‐splitting novel; the novel with authors in Greek and Latin no protagonist that writer Leo proposed in the and the classical world they lived in. The second chapter of this very clever position of women, law, the theatre, religion; commentary on modern life. Haynes covers these and many other subjects and points up the parallels between then and A Moveable Feast, now. Our fears and desires still rule us; Hemingway’s memoir of technology may have developed but human the twenties, is a love nature doesn’t seem to have. This is an letter to a Paris and a way enlightening and entertaining read, full of fun of life now disappeared. and wisdom. Since the recent attacks the book seems to be enjoying You live your life; you deal a new lease of life as a with its problems: the kids symbol of defiance for you don’t see, the Parisians. In cafes Ernie would meet the writers like Joyce, Ezra Pound disgruntled husband. You plan to buy a new iron; you and Scott Fitzgerald who are the subjects of visit your father, whose many of the book’s highly entertaining memory lasts six minutes. anecdotes. Hemingway brings scenes to life Jo lives just such a with a handful of words, offers mouth conventional life as she runs watering descriptions of food and drink and her haberdashery while her writes dialogue that is clever, amusing and friends buy lottery tickets revealing; a real treat from start to finish. and dream of the life they’d lead if they won, The Dig by Cynan Jones is a short novel that when all their dreams would come true. But packs a huge punch. It is elemental and poetic would they? That is the question Gregoire and enthralling, a kind of Old Man and the Delacourt poses in The List of my Desires. Sea of the Welsh hills. A farmer who is weighed Read this charming, elegant and bitter sweet down by tragedy rejects help from his family novel and find out what happens when it’s and handles lambing on his own. It takes up Jo’s ticket that comes up trumps. all his energy, time and thought. But that is

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Films with Chris Worthington The Big Short Directed by Adam McKay For director Adam MacKay The Big Short is a more serious take on contemporary America than his previous films such as Anchorman and The Other Guys but it is also very funny. The film is based on the unfolding of 2008 financial crisis as told through the eyes of three small investment companies. They have one thing in common ‐ a growing realisation that the sub ‐ prime mortgages handed out by the million before the crash were worthless in themselves but bundled together as bonds, known as collateral debt obligations (CDOs), they could be AAA rated and generate huge profits for the merchant banks.

Investment company number one is Scion Capital, where tee shirt and flip flop wearing analyst Michael Burry (Christian Bale) investigates late payments on sub‐prime mortgages and decides to short the sub‐prime bond market; that is to take a position in the market where he will make a profit if the value of the bonds falls. The smug merchant bankers who trouser a large monthly fee for his gamble can hardly believe their luck.

laptop to their name and who are cut out of the action until they go for lunch with Ben Rickert (Brad Pitt) a former banker who has dropped out to grow urine fed organic vegetables. Fortunately his investment advice is better than the lunch. Meanwhile the partying on Wall Street never stops, aided and abetted by former banking staff turned financial regulators at the Securities and Exchange Commission turning a blind eye and the ratings agencies who make sure that their clients do not take their hefty fees to one of the competitor rating agencies by giving the junk sub‐prime bonds an AAA rating. All in it together? Absolutely, up to their necks. Scarcely able to believe that they are right and that all the big players have missed the signs of the impending disaster they decide to take a look at the real world. First a visit to a building site in Florida where construction has stalled and the owners are collecting the rent without paying off the mortgage. Next stop is a lap dance club where one of the dancers owns five apartments and a condominium. Party on dude! They round off the tour by meeting a ghastly pair of mortgage brokers who boast about fleecing their low wage, no wage, immigrant clients but simply do not give a toss. And the bankers? Yes they knew alright, but if you make enough money before the crash who cares?

The Big Short is a true story. Major banks failed, some, including Lehman Brothers went bankrupt, the rest got bailed out by the Investment company number two is taxpayer. There is a lot Frontpoint Partners, headed up by caﬀeine of enjoyable dark comedy in the film and the fuelled Mark Baum (Steve Carrell), who has likeable good guys who shorted the market come to the same unlikely conclusion about come out on top in the end. And guess what, the sub‐prime bond market and is desperately they also made a lot of money. trying to work out how to be fair and ethical Chris Worthington towards his investors. Investment company chrisworthington32@yahoo.com number three is a garage start up with only a The Bristol Eight - 07845 986650 / 0117 259 1964 - andy@bcmagazines.co.uk

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MOLESWORTHS ‐ FOR A TRADITIONAL FAMILY EASTER

Only serve your family and friends the best! ● Free range Local Turkeys, Geese & Ducks ● Local Lamb ● Ribs of Beef ● Large Chicken ● Wild Boar & Venison 101 Henleaze Road, Bristol BS9 4JP

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The Downs Observer ‐ Richard Bland Five of Bristol’s rarest trees are on the Downs It is a while since I last discussed trees on the Downs, but, as there has been a fine programme to replace some 70 trees in the avenues of the Downs this past winter, an action that the Friends of the Downs suggested back in 2011 I think it was, it is time to revisit the subject. And I also do so because my Christmas present was a magnificent volume called Arboretum, by Dr Owen Johnson, tracing the history of all the astonishing range of trees that can, with skill and luck, be discovered across the length and breadth of the British Isles. And to my astonishment among the species mentioned were the four fine Erman’s Birches on the triangle of land at the top of Stoke Hill. They are the only ones in Bristol and the species is native to Japan and NE Asia, and were first brought to this country in 1890. The national champion is at Westonbirt, and our trees were I suspect planted in about 1950. They are very fine upstanding broad trees, quite unlike our native silver birch, but with a silvery white bark that is now breaking up with curling grey patches that give the tree considerable gravitas. Young trees have strikingly white bark with horizontal pink stripes, and it was probably for this feature that they were originally planted.

Ash than a common Walnut, and was introduced to this country by John Tradescant before 1695, but remains very uncommon. Its fruit are spherical, and almost always in pairs, but not really edible. Its wood is exceptionally tough. The Huntingdon Elm at the foot of Ladies Mile is the last survivor of a massive planting of this popular nineteenth century clone, which is a cultivar of the Wych Elm, that originated in Hinchinbrooke Park in 1760, and was very widely planted subsequently for its rapid growth and fine upright structure. They were planted along Ladies Mile and elsewhere in the 1880s, but most succumbed to Dutch Elm Disease in the 1970s. A few remained for many years, but this one is the sole survivor, and I know of no others in Bristol. A response to the Dutch Elm Disease was the planting of an elm variety commonly just called Resistant Elm, which was a cross between the Siberian Elm and the Japanese Elm made in Wisconsin, USA and known as Ulmus Sapporo Autumn Gold. Its autumn colour is a fine bright yellow, though not that diﬀerent from many other elms, but of five trees planted on Clifton Green in 1980 only one has survived to full height, the others having suﬀered catastrophic branch collapse in storms. Finally last March a Red Maple was planted on the triangle of land at the top of Sion Hill. The only others in Bristol are six planted the previous year to improve the Cumberland Basin. It is a North American tree that reached Britain in 1656. It grows fast, has red twigs in winter, red flowers at the branch tips in March, its typical maple fruit have red wings, and its leaves turn a brilliant red in autumn and are an important contributor to the colour of the New England fall.

The Downs are for people, and the management of a vast number of competing interests is sophisticated and subtle. If you enjoy the Downs, or use if for your sport, why not become a Another rare tree close by is the North American Friend? Membership is just £10. Contact Black Walnut. There are two trees, the only ones Robin Haward at in Bristol, that are part of the avenue that marks robinhaward@blueyonder.co.uk 0117 the course of the old road from Clifton to the Old 974 3385 Halt. The species has a leaf much more like an

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the condition as described by the dealer. Not only can drivers find themselves out of pocket or with a string of unexpected expenses, the car could be un‐roadworthy Buying a second hand car can be scary. Will you be ripped oﬀ? Does the car work? or unsafe. But there are some simple steps How do you check if it’s roadworthy? Last drivers can take to make sure what they year, over 66,000 clients in the South West are buying is safe, legal and what it seems.” contacted the Citizens Advice consumer line with problems relating to second hand Sarah Davey from Bristol Trading cars. Standards said: “A second‐hand car that is not up to scratch and is littered with faults can be a danger to the driver and other road users. It is important for consumers to have the right knowledge when buying a used car. We would encourage everyone to carry out checks such as looking at the car’s history, checking the MOT and investigating the seller before making a purchase. Simple checks like this may stop you from buying a mis‐described car – and in the process it will save you time and money.” With an average spend of £5000 on used cars, it is important you know what to look If you have a problem out for. Citizens Advice Bristol and Bristol with a second hand Trading Standards are reigniting the car, you can get help ‘Check it, don’t regret it’ campaign this from the Citizens month to make sure everyone knows what Advice consumer to look out for when parting with their helpline on 03454 04 hard‐earned cash and investing in a car. 05 06 or by visiting www.citizensadvice.org.uk for more Matt Rogers from Citizens Advice Bristol information. said: “Buying a second hand car can be bit of a bumpy road. Whether you have £500 Follow Citizens Advice Bristol consumer or £5,000 to spend, it can be diﬃcult to campaigns on Twitter @CABBristol or at make sure the car you end up buying is in www.bristolcab.org.uk/cep

New campaign urges used car buyers to ‘check it not regret it.’

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In the 1910s it was considered that much of the spas’ curative properties could be attributed to this natural radioactivity. Radon was considered to be the life‐blood of water in the same way that Oxygen is to air, and this Nowadays building survey reports warn of the dangers of Radon gas percolating up from belief led to an upsurge in Spas and a wide variety of radioactive quack cures. A doctor beneath ground to poison the occupants and wrote in the American Journal of Clinical many new build foundations have an Medicine; “Relief may reasonably be expected impermeable membrane. Those located on at the hot springs for …various forms of Gout Radon‐bearing granite strata in Devon and and Rheumatism, Neuralgia, metallic or Cornwall may also have special ventilation malaria poisoning, chronic Bright’s disease, systems to prevent gas build‐up. gastric Dyspepsia, Chronic Diarrhoea, Chronic skin lesions etc….”. This led to a However there was a time, not so long ago boom in the sales of bottled Radon bearing when ingesting Radon was considered to be spa waters, until it was discovered that to be beneficial. I was reminded of this when I eﬀective the water had to be drunk at source, noticed a collection of discarded ‘Sparklets’ (Good for Spa business!). type grey Nitrous Oxide or ‘laughing gas’ bulbs in a gutter in Henley Grove in Henleaze. Recognition of the Nitrous Oxide was discovered by Joseph problem led to an Priestley in 1772 and later used by Sir upsurge of devices Humphrey Davy at the Bristol Pneumatic whereby radon Institute in Dowry Square. His experiments could be added to introduced it to the gentlefolk of Clifton’s drinking water at drawing rooms where it became the fashionable ‘recreational high’. Now of course home. J. C. Barr, as ‘Hippie Crack’ it is indulged in by Bristol’s granted British Patent No. 203848. youth and its use is decried. I digress. Sept. 20, 1923 At one time no one’s drinks explained how the Soda Syphon could provide a constant supply of irradiated water cabinet or club bar was for the home. This terrifying Sparklets Ltd complete without a Soda‐ Syphon, the most famous of advertising included in the box of gas bulbs read “A Spa treatment in your own home”, ‐ which were those made by Radon Bulbs for increased vitality”. As the English Sparklets alarming as this may seem to us today, the use Company. The familiar mesh reinforced glass bottle of radon filled bulbs in Soda Syphons was Soda‐Syphons were popular only one of many such ‘cures’. My thanks to my friend Paul Frame at Oakridge Associated from the 1920s, until the 1960s when superseded by a University* in the USA who told me of other ‘lethal cures’ many of which can be seen by ‘modernistic’ enamelled visiting their website at www.orau.org/ptp/ metal flask. The container collection/quackcures/sparadiumsyphon was filled with water and charged with CO2 from a small metal bulb of compressed gas. In 1903 J. *The founding of ORAU arose from scientific J. Thompson, (the discoverer of the Electron), resources developed in Oak Ridge, Tennessee as found that the waters of many of the world’s part of the Manhattan project. most famous healing spas were radioactive © 2016 Julian Lea‐Jones FRAeS due to the presence of radon gas in the waters www.history4u.info rising from deep down radium bearing rocks.

History Notes ‐ When Radon in the home was encouraged

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Music with Duncan Haskell Album of the month March

Next Step I See A Darkness by Bonnie “Prince” Billy (Palace Records / Domino)

When listening to The Ghosts Of Highway 20 you can’t help but feel like it goes much deeper than the music, you are entering William’s world and gaining a glimpse of her suffering. Another The last decade has record which creates such a feeling is Bonnie been a prolific one for “Prince” Billy’s Lucinda Williams. Her masterpiece from new record arrives less 1999. Like all great than two years after works of art it the critically acclaimed managed to be both Down Where The unique to its creator Spirit Meets The Bone whilst still containing and is another double universal truths which album of blues‐tinged anyone could relate Americana. With the death of her father, the too. renowned poet Miller Williams, following a few years after her mother’s passing there is a Darkness permeated the album as William distinct sense of loss and nostalgia haunting the Oldham’s alt‐folk palette remained entirely tracks, which often meander like the road the muted, but rather than paint an impregnably record is named after. bleak picture the resulting album was somehow accessible and even appealing. Joining in the Williams confronts her father’s Alzheimer’s suffering of Death To Everyone, A Minor Place disease directly on the profound and gut‐ or Black was to immerse yourself in a level of wrenching If My Love Could Kill, singing craftsmanship rarely achieved in the history of “Slayer of wonder, slayer of words/ Murderer of modern music. The title track remains Oldham’s poets, murderer of songs/ Who robbed me of greatest achievement, as recognised by its your memory/ Robbed me of your time”. Her inclusion on Johnny Cash’s American distinctive voice somehow manages to convey Recordings series, mining depression and her anger, desperation, sadness and resignation solitude for the good of all. Loss and loneliness at the same time. The equally affecting Death can be a fertile ground for creativity and one that Came was written about her mother’s death. resonates with all of us. That both Bonnie Over a stark soundscape she laments “Oh I miss “Prince” Billy and Lucinda Williams managed to you so and I long to know why death gave you create such transcendental records from these his kiss.” themes puts them in a very small category of truly gifted songwriters. The sprawling nature of the album allows Williams a freedom over which to mourn, rally Gig of the Month and snarl. Her versions of Bruce Springsteen’s Factory and the lost Woodie Guthrie song House Striking Matches @ The Fleece, Monday 14th Of Earth feel strangely at home on the record, March just a couple more stops along the highway of There’s been a slight Americana / country feel to life. Perhaps most pleasing is the gentle ballad this month’s album selections so it feels like a Can’t Close The Door On Love, a surprisingly good time to check out Nashville‐based duo powerful antidote to the spectre of death which Striking Matches. Sarah Zimmermann and Justin hovers over much of the album and the proof that, much like her music, Lucinda Williams will Davis are two rising stars of the genre and the fact that T Bone Burnett produced their debut endure. album Nothing But The Silence speaks volumes The Ghosts Of Highway 20 continues Williams’ for the talent on display. As with any export rich vein of form and suggests that she is an from America’s Music City, it’s a safe bet that an artist very much at her peak. Who knows where evening of tight harmonies, exemplary the road will take her next. musicianship and great songs awaits us all.

The Ghosts Of Highway 20 by Lucinda Williams (Highway 20 Records)

Duncan Haskell The Bristol Eight - 07845 986650 / 0117 259 1964 - andy@bcmagazines.co.uk

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basket kindly sponsored by the Stoke Bishop Fruiterers for highlighting that onion and grapefruit were the two missing fruit and veg. For no reason other than I don’t think we have Congratulations to the winners and thanks as had one before, this month we have an equine ever to everyone who entered the puzzles. theme to the Prize Wordsearch. Listed below are twenty one of the UK’s professional racecourses. Twenty of them are also included in the wordsearch grid, hidden in any direction (forward, backward, up, down or on a diagonal).

Prize Wordsearch

All you need to do is let me know which racecourse is the one not in the grid. Get your entries in by post (8 Sandyleaze, WoT, BS9 3PY), email (andy@bcmagazines.co.uk), phone (0117 259 1964), text (07845 986650) or Twitter (@BS9Andy). Closing date is 31st March 2016, and the first correct entry draft from the hat after that date will win a pair of standard adult admission tickets to a raceday at either Chepstow or Bath Racecourse this spring / summer. Here are the racecourses you are looking for ‐ Aintree Market Rasen Southwell Bath Lincoln Doncaster Uttoxeter Ayr Ffos Las Cartmel Plumpton

Newmarket Kelso Newton Abbot Chepstow Ludlow Ripon Wetherby Musselburgh Chelmsford City Haydock Park

Congratulations to the winners of our three previous competitions. In the December issue Jayne Duro won a family ticket to Bristol Insight’s open top bus tours for correctly not spotting Noddy as the festive character. In the January issue Mrs S McManus won a Bristol Sweet Mart gift box for not spotting Paneer as the missing Indian foodstuﬀ, and in last months issue Dru Brooke‐Taylor won a fruit The Bristol Eight - 07845 986650 / 0117 259 1964 - andy@bcmagazines.co.uk

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Gardening with Cathy Lewis Stars of the spring garden Magnolias are the undisputed stars of spring. Showy divas of the garden, their flamboyant flowers emerge from silver‐haired buds like designer dresses from fur coats, and steal the limelight with a lavish display that is far too dramatic to be obscured by leaves. Deciduous magnolias are the ones most commonly found in our gardens. Although some grow quite large, there are many cultivars well suited to small urban spaces. Magnolias look too exotic to be robust, yet most are hardy and grow happily in a wide range of conditions, providing the soil is good and they have some shelter from cold winds. Flower colours include white, pink, purple and yellow, with shapes ranging from open stars and waterlilies to closed goblets. Magnolias are more than just a pretty face. They are one of the most primitive forms of flowering plant still in existence, evolving some 140 million years ago. They are unusual in having flowers composed of tepals instead of petals, and they don’t produce nectar. Instead they produce large quantities of pollen that attract insects such as beetles who pollinate the plant in return for a high protein meal. There are both deciduous and evergreen forms of magnolia. Evergreen magnolias such

as the stately Magno lia grand iflo ra or bull bay, are often grown against warm, south facing walls, although I have one in my garden in an exposed site that has survived the worst that Bristol’s winds can throw at it. Bull bays Evergreen Magnolia have leathery, laurel‐like grandiflora makes a leaves with a rust stately and a rac ve coloured underside and tree they produce large, lemon‐scented flowers from early summer into autumn. Popular deciduous magnolias for urban gardens include Magno lia x so ulangeana which grows to about 6m and has large rose‐ pink goblet flowers, Magno lia x lo ebneri ‘Leonard Messel’ with confetti‐like pink flowers, or the dainty white Magno lia stellata. Whatever you choose, my one piece of advice is to give this horticultural diva plenty of space in your garden so you can enjoy her unrivalled springtime display.

There is a spectacular range of magnolias at the University of Bristol Botanic Garden. This one, Magnolia campbellii, is the most beau ful of all. Cathy Lewis, Dip. PGSD Cathy Lewis Gardens & Design Professional garden design, consultancy & maintenance Tel: 07985 008 585 www.cathylewisgardens.co.uk

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learn contemporary songs and have a lot of fun along the way! You do not need to read music and there is no audition. We sing Listings for community events, not‐for‐profit modern music by the likes of Adele, Michael Jackson, Stevie Wonder, Take That, Queen, all clubs and charitable activities are free of charge. If you have something of this nature parts are taught in call and response. We run that you would like listed please get in touch three 10 week terms, with a performance at the end of each term. FFI please contact by calling 0117 259 1964 or 07845 986650, eliza@vocalharmonychoir.co.uk or visit email andy@bcmagazines.co.uk, or post details in to 8 Sandyleaze, WoT, BS9 3PY. All www.vocalharmonychoir.co.uk. notices must be received by the 15th of the preceding month to guarantee consideration The Elgar Society is dedicated to promoting the works of Sir Edward Elgar, our greatest for inclusion. English composer. The Society has regional Details shown are accurate to the best of my branches, and the South‐western Branch is knowledge, but dates, times & locations may based in Bristol. Our next meeting is on Saturday 19 March at 2.15 at the Bristol Music change without notification. So if you are unsure, and to avoid disappointment, please Club, 76 St Paul’s Road, BS8 1LP. Limited free parking is available at 1 Pembroke Road. contact the organiser listed to double check. Admission for visitors costs £3.00 including Theatre, Concerts & Music refreshments. Our speaker will be Barry Collett who will tell us about Elgar’s Powick BYO Baby Choir is performing! Come and Asylum Music. Barry has recently made a see Bring Your Own Baby Choir perform an recording of some of the music that Elgar uplifting collection of songs including songs wrote for this institute in his early years. FFI by Fleet Foxes, Groove Armada and David www.elgar.org/elgarsoc/branches/south‐ Bowie. 3pm on Sunday 20th March at The western/ Greenbank pub, 57 Bellevue Rd, Easton, BS5 6DP. Free & great fun for all the family! FFI Bristol Cabot Choir is delighted to welcome call Julia on 07984 532 535, new members for all voice parts. Why not julia@ekocollective.com/www.juliaturner.co.uk come and sing with us for 2/3 ‘taster’ rehearsals before a simple audition? We meet Itʹs Your Ceili! All dances called and live at Redland URC on Mondays at 7.30 pm FFI music with the Highly Strung Band. At St. Albanʹs Hall, Westbury Park, BS6 7QB. Friday email m.h.morse@btinternet.com, www.bristolcabotchoir.org; or Facebook. 6th May, Friday 1st July, Friday 2nd September and Friday 4th November. 7.30 Fitness, Sport, Walking & Dancing p.m. to 10.30 p.m. Licensed bar in aid of charity. Tickets £10 in advance from Jill Elliot Hydrotherapy Exercise Sessions ‐ group ‐ 01275 847909 ‐ 07515 904 707 or email exercise in lovely warm water at Southmead jillyelliot@gmail.com £12 on the door. Hospitalʹs purpose built pool. Benefits include relaxation, relief of pain & swelling, improved BYO Baby – a unique adult choir for parents, movement, balance & fitness. All ages & carers or parents to be! Bring Your Own Baby abilities welcome. We are a friendly local team is holding free taster sessions for anyone who of Chartered Physiotherapists with expertise fancies singing uplifting songs and meeting in a variety of disabilities & medical new friends, all whilst the babies hang out and conditions. We have a regular group of local enjoy sweet harmonies. Guaranteed no members but new people are always welcome. nursery rhymes! Tuesday 22nd March 3.45‐ For more details please contact Chris & Ali 5pm and Thursday 24th March 11.00‐12.15pm Cowley on 07971 086 628, email and 12.15‐1.30pm at Wildgoose Space, 228 healthyhydrotherapy@gmail.com or visit Mina Road, St Werburghs, BS2 9YP. Just come www.healthyhydrotherapy.co.uk. along, no previous experience is required. Contact Julia on 07984 532 535, Drop‐In Healing Centre at The Friends www.juliaturner.co.uk or email Meeting House, 126 Hampton Road, Redland, julia@ekocollective.com BS6 6JE. Thursdays from 5.00pm to 6.30pm.

What’s On & Community News

ʹVocal Harmonyʹ ‐ an exciting contemporary choir based in Bristol. Meet new people,

Run by Bristol Healing Group on a donation basis and supported by members of NFSH The Healing Trust. Healing is beneficial for well‐

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could oﬀer two to three hours a week to sit with an older or disabled person so that their carer can have some time oﬀ, we’d love to being and health, helping you to relax and feel hear from you. Full training and support provided. Please contact Mike Hatch, Carers better. Come along and try a healing session, Support Centre volunteer on 07503 577830 or e everyone is welcome. For more information ‐mail gp_volunteers@outlook.com phone 0117 9820184.

What’s On & Community News

Tai Chi – These gentle movements can ease the body, quiet the mind and restore vitality. Local friendly classes with an experienced teacher. Classes at all levels at The Greenway Centre and other Bristol locations. Why not come and find out more? Contact Karen on 0117 9424167, see www.taijiworks.co.uk or email taijiworks@phonecoop.coop. Bristol Shambhala Meditation Group oﬀers free meditation instruction from a qualified instructor at the Open House evening each Wednesday from 7.30 ‐ 9.30 pm at 17 Lower Redland Road, Redland, BS6 6TB and the opportunity for a longer period of practice on the second Sunday of each month. Although this meditation practice has its origins in Buddhism, the mindfulness which it cultivates can be of support to those from any or no tradition. For further information please visit www.bristol.shambhala.info

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 term‐time? We are working with twelve schools in the Southmead, Brentry and Horfield areas. Training is oﬀered, and your enhanced DBS 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 well over 100 volunteers. For more information please contact Paul Harrod, paul.harrod@gmail.com Friendship, Social and Support Groups

Westbury Park WI has changed its meeting day to the first Wednesday in the month. Guests are welcome, it costs £4 per session and it is possible to be a guest 3 times in a year without having to become a member. We meet Lipreading class. An evening lipreading class at Westmoreland Hall, Westmoreland Road, to help you cope with your hearing loss runs Redland from 7.30pm. in Clifton from 6.15pm to 7.45pm every The Bristol and District branch of Parkinsonʹs Monday, term time only, at Redland Park UK meet every first Saturday of the month at United Reformed Church, Whiteladies Road. St Monica Trust, Cote Lane, BS9 3UN Fee is £6 per session. For more details email from 10am ‐12 noon. Carers, relatives, spouses Mary Hall at lipreadingmary@yahoo.com or and people with Parkinsonʹs ‐ all are welcome telephone 07790 283 939. for a social and informative get‐together, with Volunteering & Charities speakers from a variety of backgrounds with many diverse interests. Please join us. We also REMAP is a registered charity that designs meet at The Eastfield Inn, Henleaze, BS9 4NQ and makes custom aids which enable a disabled person to enjoy a better quality of life. every second Friday in the month for an We design, make or modify equipment to suit informal coﬀee morning from 11am. We are a their specific needs. No charge is made for our friendly and supportive bunch, exchanging services. Please contact us if we can help ‐ visit tactics, information and social banter! www.remapbristol.org.uk, contact Colin 01275 Bristol Grandparents Support Group. 460288 colin305@gmail.com or contact Ray Founded in 2007 BGSG gives support to 0117 9628729 rwestcott@blueyonder.co.uk grandparents who are estranged from their grandchildren due to family breakdown. Volunteers needed to support carers. Could you please help us to develop and increase our Family breakdown can be as a result of support to carers, people who are looking after separation/divorce, alcohol/drug dependency, an unwell, disabled or elderly family member domestic violence within the home, or friend? If you are outgoing and could oﬀer bereavement or family feud. We give support over the phone, via email, Skype and at our two mornings a month to greet and give info regular meetings held at 9,Park Grove, Bristol. to carers when they visit their GP Practice, or The Bristol Eight - 07845 986650 / 0117 259 1964 - andy@bcmagazines.co.uk

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present CANFORD PARK FAYRE SUNDAY MAY 22nd (Sunday Family Funday) 11.00AM to 3.00PM BOOKING CRAFTERS 3m x 3m STALL PITCHES NOW You bring your own table and gazebo. There is a small charge, discounted for charity fundraisers, towards organisation costs. PLEASE CONTACT DAVID OR VENITA ON 9502232 University of Bristol Botanic Garden Easter Sculpture Festival

Underfall Yard, will bring her forge to show visitors how to make the curves and twists in hot metal, so characteristic of her garden features..

Fri 25th ‐ Mon 28th March 10am to 5pm Palatial ceramic bird houses fit for a king, aristocratic Trojan horses’ heads, captivating fountains and shimmering stained glass creations are just a few of the show stoppers at this year’s Sculpture Festival.

Several exhibitors this year demonstrate the versatility of glass using a variety of techniques and forms. Visitors will be able to create their own pots on Tez Roberts’ potter’s wheel and other exhibitors will be giving demonstrations including creating botanical art and batik printing.

The decorative qualities of the Moorish buildings of the Alhambra and of Cordoba and the ancient Chinese brass vessels at the Ashmolean have inspired sculptor, Peter Garrard, to create his incredible bird houses.

Take time to visit the exotic glasshouses with their amazing collections of tropical plants. Refreshments, Tours of the garden, plants and book sales.

Admission: Adults £4.50. Free to Friends, Regal war horse heads will stand guard at the university staﬀ and children under 16. Moon Gate entrance to the Traditional Chinese Medicinal Herb Garden. Sculptor, Philip University of Bristol Botanic Garden, Thompson, chooses stainless steel for its reflective and contemporary qualities and bronze The Holmes, Stoke Park Road, BS9 1JG. for its patination eﬀects. 0117 331 4906 Joanna Williams, Fire Iron Art, blacksmith, sculptor and designer based at the historical

www.bristol.ac.uk/botanic‐garden

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What’s On & Community News

Interest Groups

Bristol Speakers. Got a speech to make? Bristol Speakers offers a relaxed environment to practise your public speaking. Learn how to construct and present a speech, gain Laugh, Live and Learn with Bristol U3A. We knowledge from experienced speakers, have lots on offer for those who would like to conquer your public speaking anxiety. Most of make new friends with similar interests. If you all, practise in a stress‐free environment where have retired from full‐time work, and want to members give helpful feedback. It’s a well take part in enjoyable learning with friendship structured evening that’s fun and relaxed with and fun, we have a wide range of groups with a nice mix of people. No exorbitant fees, no long term commitment. Meeting 7.30pm over 100 different activities, including art, alternate Mondays @ BAWA Southmead Rd. computing, languages, music, walking, and Contact Ben@Bristolspeakers.co.uk science. Come to one of our social groups ‐ either at the Eastfield Inn, Henleaze, 10.30am on the second Thursday and third Monday in The Bristol & Gloucestershire Archaeological every month, phone Barbara 0117 9629331. Or Society: On Monday 21st March at 7.45 p.m. in the Apostle Room in the basement of at Browns Restaurant, by the Museum, at Clifton Cathedral, Pembroke Road, Clifton, 10.15am on the third Wednesday and fourth Canon Professor Nicholas Orme will give a Thursday in every month, phone Jenny 0117 talk on ʺGoing to school in medieval Bristolʺ. 9043697. Please visit www.bristolu3a.org.uk. Donʹt let life pass you by ‐ make friends, learn Who went to school in medieval Bristol, where did they go, and what did they learn? new skills and have fun with Bristol U3A! Nicholas Orme will explore the evidence for the existence of several schools in the city and Simply Social is a non‐profit making social decode the one surviving notebook of a club. New members always welcome. Our student in a Bristol grammar school from the weekly club nights start at 8.30pm every 1420s. This contains fascinating information Thursday. We have a varied programme of not only about the study of grammar but events ranging from meals out and walks to gliding and badminton. For further info please about local life and culture. contact our New Members Secretary Sue on The Bristol Astronomical Society host a 07757780201 or visit www.bbivc.org.uk. series of talks each week and we regularly get Soroptomists International Bristol are part of experts to talk about historical and topical aspects of astronomy, as well running hands‐ a global organisation founded in Bristol for women from a wide range of professional and on demonstrations, activities, free Saturday observing sessions at our Observatory in business backgrounds who have joined together to give Service, Friendship and have Failand (weather permitting), and often stage ʺStar Partiesʺ around Bristol and at Fun. We meet on the second and fourth Tyntesfield. All details are on our website: Mondays of the month at Long Ashton Golf Club where we enjoy a two course meal with a www.bristolastrosoc.org.uk. All welcome, held at Bristol Photographic Society, speaker. As a member of Soroptomists International we have the opportunity to form Montpelier, BS6 5EE. friendships with other countrywide clubs and throughout the world. For more details please The Bristol Dowsers meet monthly at The Theosophical Society, 14 Tyndalls Park Road, contact our membership officer on 0117 Clifton, Bristol BS8 1PY. We hold talks and 9739894 or email gillbea@aol.com for more demonstrations and field trips in the summer. details. Come along and learn the ancient art of Clifton Rotary Club welcomes new members dowsing! Our next meeting will be held on Thursday 17 March 2016 at 7.30 pm. Our willing to give their time, are interested in speaker is Susan Hale MA and the title of her making new friends, building business talk will be “Exploring Sacred Space and contacts and using their skills to help Sacred Sound.” Admission: £5 (including tea/ others. We meet Wednesday lunchtimes at coffee/biscuits). For further information, please Redland Lawn Tennis and Squash Club. FFI telephone: 01749 678 834 or write to please visit www.cliftonrotary.org or email leasurs@tiscali.co.uk secretary@cliftonrotary.org BS6 7XB. Tel 07773 258270 more information or visit www.bgsg.co.uk

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The Bristol Eight - 07845 986650 / 0117 259 1964 - andy@bcmagazines.co.uk

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What’s On & Community News The Bristol Humanists is a local group for those who make sense of the world using reason & shared human values; who seek to live ethical lives on the basis of reason, humanity and respect for others; and find meaning, beauty, and joy in the one life we have, without the need for an afterlife. We meet every month on the third Monday at 7.30pm in Kingsdown. For more information contact Margaret Dearnaley on 07986 555817 (evenings and weekends only) or email bristolhumanists@gmail.com. Philosophy Discussion Group. We are a friendly and welcoming group who enjoy taking a turn to bring topic to share. We meet at 7 – 9pm every fourth Thursday evening of the month at Eastfield Inn, Henleaze, Bristol BS9 4NQ, and 10 ‐ 12 noon every second Friday morning of the month, also at Eastfield Inn, Henleaze. If you would like to be involved please contact Lorna Tarr on 0770 245 3827.

glasshouses themselves are to become an aviary where a kaleidoscope of birds is to take up residence. Zoë Cameron has invited 20 artists & designers to use their ingenuity to create birds from materials as diverse as recycled plastic, bike parts, wood, steel and clay to flourish in this tropical paradise. A special bird‐spotters guide will aid identification! Antique & Vintage Fair. Sunday 3rd April 10am‐3.30pm at Ashton Court Mansion, Long Ashton Bristol BS41 9JN. 40 quality stalls ‐ all in doors. Antiques & Collectables, Vintage & Reclaimed. Café with afternoon cream teas. £2.00 entry (under 16s free). Car Park access: Kennel Lodge entrance oﬀ Portishead Rd A369. Quiz Answers from page 16

1. Exodus and Jude; 2. Canterbury, St Albans, Ely, Lichfield, Chester, Ripon; 3. Pass the Dutchie, Float On, Eye Level, Skyscraper, Tell Laura I Love Her; 4. Damascus, Beirut, Tehran, Baghdad and Kabul; 5. 1937; 6. Michael New Dimensions meets every month and we Howard, Tim Fallon and John Prescott; 7. have talks on a wide range of esoteric subjects. 1988. 8. drug therapy, disorders of the blood, The meetings are held at the Friends’ Meeting disorders and diseases of the ear, nose and throat (ENT); 9. skin (average 10kg); 10. Tesco; House, 126 Hampton Road, Redland, Bristol 11. Geoﬀrey Smith, Alan Titchmarsh, Monty BS6 6JE. Admission: £5 (including Don (presenters of Gardeners’ World); 12.a) 42 refreshments). The next meeting will be held cals, b) 66 cals, c) 118 cals, and d) 193 cals; 13. on Sunday 20 March 2016 at 3pm. The speaker will be Alan Payne and the title of his they are the BBC theme tunes to their coverage talk is “Iridology – What the Eyes can Reveal”. of Formula 1, cricket and snooker; 14. both had more than 1/4 of their population killed by For further information, please telephone bubonic plague. 01749 678 834 or email: leasurs@tiscali.co.uk The Bristol Philatelic Society meets on the 2nd and 4th Thursdays of each month in the meeting room of the United Reform Church at the bottom of Blackboy Hill (Whiteladies Road) starting at 7.30 p.m. Contact 0117 956 7853. Exhibitions, Meetings, Fairs & Markets On 25‐28th March the Bristol Murmuration will rise again... at the University of Bristol Botanical Gardens Art & Sculpture weekend! Leading visitors to the shelter of the Botanical hothouses a flock of uncollected starlings from last Octoberʹs public participation spectacular will appear, as though flying for sanctuary. Visitors will be able to buy and rehome a starling with all proceeds going to charities working in the current refugee crisis following equally perilous migratory routes. The

The Bristol Eight is published by Bristol Community Magazines Ltd (Co. No. 08448649, registered at 8 Sandyleaze, Westbury on Trym, Bristol, BS9 3PY). The views expressed by contributors or advertisers in The Bristol Eight are not necessarily those held by Bristol Community Magazines Ltd. The inclusion of any business or organisation in this magazine does not imply a recommendation of it, its aims or its methods. Bristol Community Magazines Ltd 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 Bristol Community Magazines Ltd and may not be reproduced without the prior written consent of Bristol Community Magazines.

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The Bristol Eight - 07845 986650 / 0117 259 1964 - andy@bcmagazines.co.uk

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The Bristol Eight - 07845 986650 / 0117 259 1964 - andy@bcmagazines.co.uk