The Bristol Nine - February 2016 by Andy Fraser

A free community magazine delivered each month through 12,000 letterboxes across Stoke Bishop, Westbury on Trym, Sea Mills, Coombe Dingle, Henleaze and Sneyd Park.

The Editorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Small Piece

WANTED - GROUND FLOOR FLAT in Henleaze/Westbury Park, near shops and bus routes. Reception, 2 bedrooms, fitted kitchen and bathroom. Small garden if possible.

Cash buyer. Contact: Alison Bordes email: alisonh.lang@virgin.netâ&#x20AC;?

Would you like to be more confident? Do you find yourself wondering how other people cope with things you find difficult?

What can hypnotherapy help with? • Difficulties sleeping • Lack of confidence & self esteem • Achieving your goals • Public speaking anxiety • Exam / interview nerves • Anxiety, stress & tension levels • Fears and phobias

There are sometimes things in life we find hard. Things such as speaking in public, taking exams or being interviewed. Maybe these feelings effect us everyday because of what we do for a living or because we know we are capable of more and are struggling to overcome those feelings. If this sounds familiar to you then hypnotherapy may be the answer you are looking for. At Solutions Hypnotherapy we use the findings from the latest neuroscience research helping us to understand how the mind works to make the positive changes we want in our lives.

• Weight management • Unwanted patterns of behaviour • Negative thought patterns

• Stopping smoking

I have worked with and helped many people who want to overcome these feelings of anxiety and doubt and be able to confidently perform to the best of their ability, from professional sports men and women, students, writers and perhaps, you.

• Pregnancy and childbirth •••

and much more

All sessions are completely tailored according to your individual needs.

FREE relaxation CD included with your hypnotherapy sessions

If you have not considered solution focused hypnotherapy before why not come along for a free initial consultation 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 initial consultation during February quoting “Bristol 6/8/9” and you will receive a £10 discount off each session.

Alison Jones Solution 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@solutionshypnotherapy.co.uk

w: www.solutionshypnotherapy.co.uk The Clifton Practice, 8-10 Whiteladies Road, Clifton, BS8 1PD -

The Bowen Technique Anne Brunton Is this cold and wet weather causing your dodgy knee or hip to give you grief again? Or is your sore neck exacerbated by hunching up against the rain and wind? Or has your New Year resolution to become fitter already left you with a torn muscle? Bowen Technique might very well be your saviour! Bowen is a gentle, non-invasive hands-on remedial therapy. Even long standing pain may be relieved within 3-4 sessions. As itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s such a gentle therapy, it is suitable for people of all ages and conditions including children and babies. As the precise moves may be made through light clothing, there is no need to undress for the treatment. Bowen treats the whole body and although considered particularly effective for musculo-skeletal problems, such as back, neck and shoulder pain and sports injuries, many people also report that they sleep better, their digestion is improved or that long standing migraine symptoms reduce. Given how common back pain is, it is not surprising that this is one of the most common presentations. A simple home remedy to help reduce pain in arthritic, sore or stiff joints is to dissolve a cupful of Epsom Salts in a relaxing warm bath. With this damp weather, many people will suffer the miseries of asthma and sinusitis. Bowen may help relieve the symptoms and regular treatments may also help prevent a flare-up. An emergency move for an asthma attack, that may be used whilst waiting for the emergency service, is illustrated on www.relieve-childhoodasthma.com

No Prize Quiz - answers on p92

Constituency Matters Charlotte Leslie MP

engaged in politics. That is their prerogative, but it must be galling for a 16-year-old who knows the issues inside out and who approaches matters with a level of maturity.

I saw the future recently – and far from being scary, it was remarkably inspiring. We have made the mistake for too long of focusing on things like age when what we BS9 residents who were in or around Kondi need to focus on is engagement. We need to Brasserie on Henleaze Road one Friday be bringing as many people, of as many ages lunchtime last month might have noticed a and beliefs, into the debate as we possibly hubbub of filming activity. This was for a can. new programme for children’s TV channel CBBC which takes a look at different careers We have seen what can happen when groups and has two young presenters following the of people believe the ‘process’ has let them person with the job – in this case me – down. In severe cases, this disillusion can around for the day. turn to violence. The filming coincided with one of my Café Politics sessions so it was a good opportunity for the youngsters to meet real constituents with real issues rather than simply trail around meetings at the Houses of Parliament. Each of the girls for this particular episode – Henrietta and (another) Charlotte had been chosen from thousands from across the country who auditioned. And you could tell. They were quite outstanding. They had researched not just what being an MP is all about but also the issues affecting transport in Bristol North West. Impressive, and even more so when you realize neither girl is from Bristol. And both are only aged 10 and 11! They were superb with the residents, asking and answering pointed questions and always with charm and courtesy. Periodically – and with increasing frequency – the issue of voting age comes up. Is it too high, at 18? Do teenagers understand enough of the issues? My CBBC experience taught me that other than obvious extremes, age is really not a factor in how informed or other a person might be. We all know adults who are simply not -

Politics can inspire, and Charlotte and Henrietta proved that it can excite, so it is up to people like me to try to bring as many voices to the table as possible. If you get the chance, the programme will be broadcast in May and it’s called All About the Workplace.

I’d like to thank the fabulous, and patient, staff at Kondi for hosting us, as well as the Empire Fighting Chance Boxing Club in Easton. I just hope I never have to face Charlotte or Henrietta at the ballot Charlotte Leslie MP for Bristol North West Office: 184 Henleaze Road, Henleaze, Bristol BS9 4NE 0117 962 9427 www.charlotteleslie.com E: charlotte.leslie.mp@parliament.uk -

How often do we hear “you’ve not got the enough experience”? Whether it’s applying for university or a job, experience is often held in higher regard than formal qualifications. I am fortunate to have had a decent education, but my past employers have all admitted it was my interesting travel background and hobbies that won me an interview. Experience is what gives you something to say for yourself. A story. A little difference among the masses. I believe the same applies to holidays. As the world seems to shrinks on a daily basis, it becomes ever easier to rack up an impressive list of countries visited, but I argue that this list means nothing if it comes with no experience. We have a choice on how we spend our precious holidays and I’d like to show the great void that exists between destination and experience and highlight some examples where I believe you can visit the same region, even to take part in the same activity, and yet have a very different experience. When we go on holiday, we tend to focus on location - where we want to go – rather than the experience – what we want to do. Of course, destination and experience are inextricably linked (you’re unlikely to have similar encounters in the Brazilian Amazon as you are in Hull, however hard you try). Having said that, you can have two families travel to the same destination and come back with very different stories.

the Canyon helps escape the crowds - either hike to the bottom or visit the quieter north side. Better yet, visit the lesser known but equally impressive Bryce Canyon. A massive succession of amphitheatres, Bryce is technically not a canyon but its extraordinary sandstone pillars are considered more spectacular than the Grand Canyon by many, and it is considerably easier to access and walk around. 2. Kilimanjaro is a mountain climbed by 25,000 people every single year, 95% of whom walk by one of two routes. Visualise the traffic on the narrow paths, and the crowded camp sites. This is an unfortunate result of an attractive mountain, but there is no need to compromise and follow the masses. Climb Mount Kilimanjaro via a route trodden by just 450 each year, staying in your own campsite each night. It costs no more but you’ll be pleased you went to the effort of finding the quieter route. I did this and it enhanced my experience…I saw Kilimanjaro for what it really is: wild and pristine.

3. According to the Guinness Book of Records, it is not Rio that hosts the largest carnival on Below are five examples of popular travel Earth. Oh destinations that can be done in very different no. Salvador Salvador Carnival ways. This is just 5 of the dozens I have Carnival holds the encountered both first and second hand. record as the Biggest Street Party on the Planet, with more than 2 million revellers taking the designed 1. The Grand Canyon should not be missed. If 30km of streets by storm the week before Ash you’re ever in the American mid-west, you must visit Wednesday. this scar on the Earth’s surface. 95% of the 5 million annual visitors 4. Everyone has an image of Mount Everest. The flock to the great hulking mass that is the tallest mountain on Grand Canyon Earth towers with such grandeur. Trekking to Village, where Everest Base Camp is, for most, a worthy challenge they’re herded and about as high as we’ll ever venture. About onto crowded 40,000 walk to Everest BC every year – a staggering platforms to view number – and the toll this is taking on the local the spectacle population and environment is evident to anyone from afar. who travels there. (continued on p22) Knowledge of Bryce Canyon -

A more environmentally friendly, remote, adventurous and certainly more picturesque alternative is to trek near another Himalayan Mount Annapurna giant: Mount Annapurna. Less trodden, rich in culture and dramatically beautiful, the Annapurna Sanctuary trek is a perfect alternative with around 20% of the visitor number that Everest attracts. 5. Closer to home, as magnificent as Stonehenge is, it receives well over 1 million visitors per year. Just 20 miles to the north lies Avebury, a mystical circle of stones erected in

Avebury

the same era as Stonehenge, but is much larger and has better access to the stones themselves. Avebury receives one fifth of the visitors that Stonehenge does. Those who have visited both know the difference and, whenever relatives come to stay, we’ll always walk around Avebury and save our viewing of Stonehenge for the inevitable traffic jam on the A303. Most of us have less ‘free time’ than ever, in which holiday-planning takes place. But sometimes help is needed to see a location through different eyes, so I encourage you to take the time to either scour the internet yourself for ideas, or speak to an expert – someone who’s actually been there and done that. So, next time you think about booking a holiday or some travel time, consider what you want to do, and how you want to do it, rather than where you think you should go.

C the World, 33 North View, Westbury Park www.ctheworld.co.uk 0117 428 0570

Bristol Citizens Advice

“What we do and how we can help you” writes Sue Evans, Director of Bristol Citizens Advice

enquiries from the public covering a vast range of topics – debt, benefits advice, employment rights, housing, consumer issues, relationship breakdowns and many general legal issues.

Readers may also be interested to learn that we offer advice on pensions through our government funded Pensions Wise scheme which helps people to understand the pension options available to them on reaching retirement. We also have a team of Macmillan caseworkers providing advice to anyone diagnosed with cancer in Bristol on dealing The national Citizens Advice service was set up with the extra costs that a cancer diagnosis in 1939 as a response to the huge demand for brings. advice and support created by the outbreak of World War II. During the 1940’s the service We are a volunteer-led service with over 80 delivered advice (often from a mobile office) fully trained and experienced advisers on hand on keeping chickens and growing your own to help you resolve your problems. Our vegetables! volunteers are the backbone to our service and without their skills, loyalty and dedication we wouldn’t be able to offer the high quality of advice we do. If you’re interested in finding out about volunteering do visit our website at www.bristolcab.org.uk Our service is supported by numerous different organisations including Bristol City Council, Bristol and Wessex Waters, the Quartet Community Foundation and Macmillan Cancer Support amongst others.

Citizens Advice Bristol is one of over 300 local offices who together make up the National Association of Citizens Advice Bureaux. We are the largest advice provider in the country, working to make society fairer by providing free, confidential and impartial advice to everyone on their rights and responsibilities. We value diversity, promote equality and challenge discrimination. Our Bristol Citizens Advice was opened in 1977 in a former restaurant opposite the Odeon on Union Street. On our first morning open we dealt with 120 clients. Since then, in the last 43 years, we’ve been delivering free advice to hundreds of thousands of people in Bristol. Last year we received over 32,000 -

On 15th February this year, after 31 years in our offices on Broad Street, we will be moving to new premises at 48 Fairfax Street, BS1 3BL. Our drop-in will be open from 9.30am-1pm Mon-Fri. We also have drop-ins at Southmead, -

Knowle West, Hartcliffe, and Easton. Visit www.bristol.org.uk for more information or if you’re interested in volunteering, you can also follow us on Twitter @CABbristol.

Our history: Here’s a quick tour of our first three decades of delivering advice to the people of Bristol: The Eighties ▪ ▪

▪

Homelessness was an increasingly important issue in Bristol in the early 1990s and we built relationships with homelessness hostels and charities to help support clients.

▪

We crept towards the cyber age with the purchase of a single computer.

The 2000's

No proper case records, everything was paper based. Enquiries were numerous - over 30,000 in 1980 – but rather less complex than they are today, with most focusing on consumer issues. We were under continual threat of closure in the early 80s, due to lack of funds and problems with premises. In 1982 Bristol City Council offered premises in the old Bank of England in Broad Street described by the Evening Post at the time as “a spacious modern building”.

▪

In October 2000 we received a visit from our national Patron the Princess Royal.

▪

Information and case recording systems were computerised.

▪

We were awarded funding from national government for the first time in 2005 to support our financial inclusion work.

▪

In 2007 we held our 30th anniversary celebrations at Circomedia.

▪

Our Macmillan funded Cancer Advice Service started in 2009.

In the second half of the decade, half of all new enquiries to Citizens Advice ▪ Bristol were debt-related. We were quoted in the Evening Post as saying: “Five years ago someone with multiple debt problems was a rarity. Now it is much more common.”

The Nineties ▪

the following line: “A huge proportion of the problems affecting our users have been prompted by the economic climate or are adversely affected by it, unemployment rates have risen and job security is weaker.” This was reflected in the appointment of the first paid Money Adviser and specialist Welfare Rights Worker in the early 90s.

2010 saw the opening of our Bristol Advice Point on Quay Street, offering drop-in advice five days a week in a far more pleasant environment.

Our 1991/2 Annual Report opens with -

HENLEAZE guide £775,000. Park Grove. A substantial, civilised & engaging 5 double bedroom semi-detached family residence situated in a prime location directly opposite Henleaze Infant School. Further benefiting from off street parking for at least 2 cars, 2 reception rooms plus a 26ft kitchen/dining room leading through to a conservatory with bi-fold doors and accessing a wonderful 85ft westerly facing rear garden. Has a truly impressive loft conversion (2007) with generous en-suite & Velux balconies offering views over Henleaze. EPC: E.

SNEYD PARK guide £650,000 An exciting opportunity to update and possibly remodel a 1950’s era detached house with 3 bedrooms and 3 reception rooms plus a flexible 1 bedroom annexe, generous gardens, a garage and off street driveway parking. The house is discreetly positioned at the end of a long driveway, shared with one other house, and set in the prestigious, highly prized leafy surroundings of Sneyd Park with close proximity to the Downs. No onward chain simplifies moving. EPC: D

STOKE BISHOP guide £595,000 A bright & well-proportioned 3 double bedroom 1930’s semi-detached family house with a stylish interior full of natural light. Further benefiting from ample off street parking, converted garage store / utility & an enviable large social kitchen and dining space with bi-folding doors accessing a south easterly facing rear garden. Lovingly refurbished by current owners within the last 2 years inc. a new kitchen, log burner stove & much more. A beautifully appointed family home in a favourite Stoke Bishop location. EPC: D

WESTBURY-ON-TRYM guide £299,950 Recently refurbished to a high standard this 2 double bedroom house has its own off street parking space and is in a highly convenient location close to the Westbury on Trym village centre with immediate access to the excellent shops and amenities. Has a very generous open plan thro’ living and kitchen area and is beautifully finished to a modern specification with oak veneer flooring, new wooden double glazed casement windows & an under floor heating system. No onward chain. EPC: C

Richard Harding, the independent Estate Agents selling fine homes in & around all BS9 areas - professionally, reliably, successfully

Welcome to Paul and Sophie who have recently taken over the fruit and vegetable shop on Stoke Hill. I popped in to say hello to BS9’s latest “shopkeepers” (see page 43) and had a chat with the really friendly new owners. “We moved to Bristol from Stockholm (where we'd lived for 14 years) in Aug 2015, into a house in St Werburghs that is crumbling around our ears. We chose Bristol as we wanted to live in a city, but somewhere smaller than London. Bristol appealed as it has a lively cultural scene and lots of lovely pubs and restaurants! We first looked at the shop in February last year and fell in love with it. There is a strong sense of community in Stoke Bishop and our customers have made us very welcome. We have jars of homemade jams and pickles given to us by customers, and even a little fan heater from one who felt sorry for us when it was cold. Our plans for the shop are relatively modest - the most important thing is to keep it here! Local shops provide such a focal point for the community, and are a life-line for our elderly customers who can't necessarily get to the large supermarkets. As one customer said to me - if you don't use it, you lose it. So we are aiming to keep the quality of our products as high as possible. We are also hoping to install a fridge later this year, and to sell some local cheeses, milks and creams. We are also hoping to build the delivery side of the business, offering free deliveries on orders over £10. We can pack a box to a value so the customer gets a surprise, or the customer can order specific items.”

   

stepchildren to claim up to an additional £175,000 free of inheritance tax.

The government's new tax promises - how does it affect you? George Osborne's promise of a shiny new £1 million inheritance tax threshold • at the Conservative Party Conference back in 2007 finally came to fruition in the Summer Budget of 2015.

If your total estate is worth more than £2 million, special rules apply which will limit your possible tax savings.

• However, the government's proposals are not quite as generous as the headline figure would have us believe, and the legislation has left many unanswered questions.

Importantly, those without children and those who do not leave their estate to children or step-children will not benefit from the new residence nil rate band.

•

The total relief available under the new residence nil rate band will be phased in over a period of four years from the 2017/18 tax year, when the first additional £100,000 will be available. This will increase to £175,000 per person by 2020/21.

Here is our guide to the key changes: •

£1 million equals the total inheritance tax (IHT) relief which the children of spouses or civil partners can claim at death.

•

£1 million equates to the existing individual's IHT allowance (currently of £325,000, or £650,000 per couple) plus the new residence nil rate band of up to £350,000 per couple.

•

The new residence nil rate band will enable individuals who leave their home to their children or

Do you own property at home and away? Another key development of 2015 was the introduction of new European regulations affecting those who own property abroad.

In recognition of the many people who live and work outside the country of their nationality, the new European Succession Regulation was introduced. The general principle is to simplify those estates where two or more laws of succession previously applied, by establishing that just the law of succession governing the member state in which a person was ordinarily living at the time of their death, will apply. It is possible to opt for the law of your nationality to apply instead, if you wish.

for example a holiday home in France, still need to ensure that their Will makes their choice of law clear. Despite its laudable goals, it will take time before the practical consequences of the European Succession Regulation become clear and in this most complex of areas, it remains vital to seek professional advice if you have assets in more than one country.

If you would like more information or advice, please contact Mary Importantly, the UK has opted out of the McCrorie on European Succession Regulation. 0117 314 5368 or at However, we are still affected and MMcCrorie@vwv.co.uk Britons with property in other EU states,

Films with Chris Worthington The Hateful Eight Directed by Quentin Tarantino The latest film directed by Quentin Tarantino is always eagerly anticipated by fans of Reservoir Dogs and Pulp Fiction, films that I watch again almost every year. As in most of Tarantino’s films the dialogue is largely based on the implacable logic of criminal minds.

alive, at least for the time being. A conversation on the relative merits of prisoners being dead or alive ensues. As the weather draws in they stop to take in a callow young man with the unlikely story that he is the new sheriff of Red Rock. They duly arrive at Minnie’s Haberdashery to find not Minnie herself but a motley crew of other travellers stranded by the blizzard. First up is Oswaldo Moseley (Tim Roth) passing himself off as an English gent turned hangman in Red Rock. He is in the company of Joe Gage, a cow poke who is allegedly visiting his mother (god help her) played by Michael Madson, the psychopathic Mr Blonde in Reservoir Dogs. General Sandy Smithers, an aging renegade from the civil war is the final member of the joyous gathering. An uneasy calm descends as they are all forced to shelter from the blizzard, drink coffee, eat stew and exchange pleasantries about the moral justification for hanging criminals and the murder of prisoners by General Smithers at the battle of Baton Rouge.

The film is set in a mountain pass in Wyoming some years after the American civil war. It was shot on 65 mm film creating a widescreen image, the shots of mountain scenery and the six horse stage coach driving through the snow are spectacular. A blizzard is approaching as a stage coach hurtles on to a stop over at Minnie’s Haberdashery. The sound of the blizzard combined with the ominous sound track written by Ennio Morricone, the composer of the music for the spaghetti westerns, suggest that things may not turn out too well. The passengers include three dead bodies on the roof of the stage coach being taken in for a bounty to the nearby town of Red Rock. The bounty hunter, civil war veteran Major Marquis Warren (Samuel L. Jackson) is in good company. Another passenger, John Ruth, played by Kurt Russell is also a bounty hunter taking in one Daisy Domerque (Jennifer Jason Leigh) a dentally challenged murderer who has been kept

Events take a turn for the worse when Major Warren announces that the stew does not taste like the stew that Minnie usually makes. So who made the stew and where is Minnie? As this is a Tarantino film the answer to this and other matters can only be resolved through very considerable pain and bloodshed. The soundtrack at the end of the film includes “There won’t be many coming home” by Roy Orbison, an accurate description of the final outcome but a sentiment that The Hateful Eight certainly do not deserve. The cinematography of The Hateful Eight and some of the dialogue are brilliant. However at times the unfolding of the story line is a little plodding and introducing an ensemble cast slows down the overall pace of the film but it is a must for fans of Quentin Tarantino, westerns and civil war movies. Chris Worthington chrisworthington32@yahoo.com

History Notes - Julian Lea-Jones FRAeS This series of notes on Bristol’s history started out 99 articles ago with Nick Clark for The Redland Directory magazine (now The Bristol Six), subsequently expanded by Andy Fraser to include BS8 and here in the BS9, so for this centenary article I thought I would consider something different. Although I have been researching and writing about Bristol’s history since 1979 my ‘day job’ has involved researching and developing future technologies therefore I will split this month’s article between what was and what will be. Nowadays we complain about bureaucracy and the effects on our lives, but as this small selection of early documents show when we were at war and everything was rationed instruction was given on the minutiae of daily life, from what food to cook to how not to wash curtains, (to maintain wartime blackout). I am sure that some older readers will remember the frustrations of petrol rationing back in the 1940’s, but how many will also remember that these books of petrol coupons were also used in 1979 – the time of shortages and power cuts. The wartime ‘out of work’ benefits book has small print warning that any involvement in a trade dispute will completely disqualify the claimant. Also during the war many houses were requisitioned for service personnel, I touched on this only last January, No 90, but during the Civil War Cromwell is reported to have stabled his horses in Temple Church. I wonder if the Vicar was forewarned by Cromwell’s harbinger or more likely just force majeure. As recently as 1825 a harbinger issued this notice to householders in Temple Parish, “you are to provide accommodation for …men and stabling for … horses” By order of CC Gevens. Also for a burgess public -

office wasn’t a privilege it was a duty with hefty fines for avoidance. These few examples remind us that however annoying present bureaucracy is, historically it was a lot worse. But enough of the past, we all know that down the centuries Bristol has been at the forefront of innovation, remember INMOS at Aztec West, the 1970s ground breaking semiconductor company that at one time captured 60% of the world market for a specific type of computer memory chip. They will be most remembered for the ‘Transputer’ which formed the basis for the first super computers. Many if asked will mention aerospace – certainly, we have a roll call of firsts, all innovative, but not always commercially viable – often the price for being first in the field. To quote Terry Pratchett who said; “The future is coming down the track fast, & who knows what’s going to arrive next!” Still with Aerospace, for those amazed by Concorde, how many realise that its fuselage would almost fit through the Engine intake of Airbus’ newest plane. Also at Filton EADS & GKN have come together at the Innovation Works develop the revolutionary manufacturing process known as Additive Layer Manufacturing (ALM). Planes are already flying with metal parts that have been ‘grown’ direct from the drawings rather than painstakingly cut and machined (r), and this technology can be applied to anything from, planes, cars, furniture and even food, (sausages and ‘burgers from a cell culture!). Body parts, such as hip joints and even a trachea are now grown from the patient’s body scan, a perfect fit, less trauma. It is gratifying when I give STEM talks at schools, to see how many already have their own 3D printers, enabling their pupils to ‘grow’ solid objects from their own 3D designs.

Other significant advances are in the field of Biomimetics – Engineering learning from nature. Observation of the ever-clean Lotus leaf resulted in self-cleaning windows and car windscreens. Emulating sharkskin can reduce the drag on future planes, needing less fuel, resulting in less CO2. Some other amazing developments: Invisibility cloak, no not Harry Potter Fiction! BAE Systems have (continued overleaf) -

Vehicle camouflage that, chameleon-like, mimics the background terrain even at 40KMph! How about things that you can see, feel and manipulate but aren’t really there. A convergence of technologies; haptics and laser holograms provide 3 dimensional images - tactile holograms. Lastly I must mention UWE’s Robotics laboratory where they have developed robots that emulate rats and can see

with their whiskers.

This has only been a very brief mention of some of the developments that I have been privileged to be involved with. If you would like to know more go to my website http://history4u.info/technology.htm to see one of my ‘Future technology’ talks. These include some of the actual examples shown available which are available to examine and handle. Perhaps next month I will revert to more historical topics. © Julian Lea-Jones 2016

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Talking Pets with Viking Vets Does it matter who owns a veterinary practice? It may well be something you've never thought about. Twenty years ago you wouldn't have had to. Many animal owners do not realise that over the last few years we have seen a huge change in the ownerships of veterinary practices. Until 1999 only vets were allowed to own a veterinary practice and as part of that traditional model a vet would join a practice and become a partner in time. However, this was deemed anticompetitive and ownership was opened up to anybody and veterinary practices became investment opportunities for people with no veterinary experience. The veterinary world now operates under a number of business models. The franchise models such as Vets4Pets consist of individual vets and nurses that have their own practice, they will pay a management fee to the main company for things like HR, health and safety etc. This is a heavily branded chain that is easy for the consumer to recognise. The fact that each branch is in competition with the next may be a

surprise to some. Vets4Pets and Companion Care is now under the same ownership. Investors has embraced the veterinary market. There have been two types of investors. The pure equity investors that work on a set time cycle, buying up practices and then selling the bundle of practices to the next investor. An other model is to buy practices and create a company large enough to float on the stock market. My concern is that it is nearly impossible for you as a client to know when a practice has been sold to a big company. There are advantages for the clients, there are more competition, there will be some headline bargains. Disadvantages of going to corporate practice - staff have targets, less flexibility in treatment, admin costs need to be recouped, higher staff turnover. The irony is that what started up as trying to increase competition, may long term decrease it since there will only be a handful of large companies left. Bristol, which prides itself in its large number of independent traders and even its own currency, has been flooded with corporations taking over around 70% of its veterinary practices. Maria Lowe, Veterinary Surgeon Viking Vets

Music with Duncan Haskell Album of the month February ‘Not To Disappear’ by Daughter (4AD) Elena Tonra, Igor Haefeli and Remi Aquilella have returned with a second album that expands upon debut ‘If You Leave’ and allows them to reveal their true grandeur. The sentiments are bigger, and darker, and the sonics bolder, with the combined effect landing emotional blows from the moment ‘New Ways’ kicks things off with the words “Washed out brain.” Echoes of Sigur Rós and Beach House can be found in the group’s soundscapes, which manage to sound at once desolate and bursting with emotion. Tonra’s delivery provides a similar dichotomy, a cold and detached vessel in which to carry her confessional and heartfelt words. This is perhaps best heard on ‘Doing The Right Thing’, a song from the viewpoint of somebody suffering from dementia, complete with the shattering lyrics “Then I'll lose my children/ Then I'll lose my love/ Then I'll sit in silence.” ‘Mothers’ is an equally unflinching with lines like “You will drain all you need to drain out of me” admitting to the physical and emotional cost of motherhood.

Next Step ‘Blue’ by Joni Mitchell (Reprise) Though much less poetic, there was something in the lyrics to Daughter’s song ‘Mothers’ reminiscent of Joni Mitchell’s ‘Little Green’ and so (for no other reason) the track’s parent album is this month’s next step. Released in 1971, ‘Blue’ was the fourth album from the Canadian singer-songwriter and remains the highpoint of her remarkable career. A break-up album that set the template for future generations, ‘Blue’ is confirmation of the timeless qualities in Mitchell’s writing. The line “We don't need no piece of paper from the city hall / keeping us tied and true” from ‘My Old Man’ still sounds like a fresh statement over four decades later. Much of the album hints at the suffering she was going through having split with Graham Nash, nowhere more so than on ‘California’ and ‘A Case Of You’, and of the new love she had discovered with James Taylor, as referenced in the title track and ‘All I Want’. There is a sadness and confessional nature to ‘Blue’ which can be overwhelming at times, Mitchell is leaving nothing unsaid, and perhaps that is the other parallel with ‘Not To Disappear’ - a dedication to fearless honesty.

Gig of the Month King Gizzard & The Lizard Wizard @ The Fleece, Wednesday 17th February The prolific Australian There are plenty of highlights elsewhere on the alpurveyors of psych rock bum. ‘No Care’ is a skittish deconstruction of an made one of 2015’s most afterhours encounter in which no one asks Tonra to enjoyable albums, ‘Paper dance “because I only know how to flail.” ‘Fossa’ is a Mâché Dream Balloon’, tempo-shifting behemoth which changes gear as the latest in a career that emotions deepen; that it hangs together is testament has been marked by exto the group’s prowess as musicians. The numb hush perimentation and a willof ‘Made of Stone’ closes the album, the outpouring ingness to blend genres. clearly having taken its toll on all concerned. Packed with a tunefulness to accompany their explorations of sound, it was Themes of darkness and demise dominate ‘Not to their most accomplished offering yet and the opporDisappear’ yet by being so overpowering they embolden the listener to face their own doubts head on tunity to see them perform songs from the record live should be one that is too good to turn down. Be and what could have been cloying and depressing sure to expect the unexpected - and flutes. ends up as a powerfully cathartic listen. Duncan Haskell -

Some people find that wearing a fitness watch is a good way to track both calories and fitness, as well as hours asleep. Fitbit is one of the first of these type of trackers and reasonably Mind body and soul fitness inexpensive. It is worn like a watch, and tells the time, your heart rate, I am writing this in mid January, as I have recently how many steps you have taken, been surrounded by a lot of people on diets, and miles you have run, how many carrying out New Year’s resolutions to become fitter floors you have climbed, and hours or healthier, counting their daily steps or calorie slept. It works with an app on your intake, and I felt it would be topical to discuss all the phone. You can also input your options available to help you if you wanted to join in. food and water intake.

Mrs PC - Friendly computer training

There are many apps, some free and some not, that If it is your mind you want to train, there are lots of can be downloaded onto your smartphone or tablet to help you to improve your fitness both in body and options. I have just downloaded Fit Brains, which will help you to work on many different brain areas, mind. and tests your speed as well. You can set a daily reminder so that you keep up the training, and it will For the battle of the bulge my Fitness Pal is very decide which areas you need to focus on. Again your effective. You basically put your details – age, height progress is tracked in the app, and you will notice and weight into the app, and it will count calories for you. You have to log what you eat, and you can look that you do improve dramatically with practice. The tests start off quite simple and become more up food values on the app, so it can help you to complicated. It takes about 5 minutes to complete know how many calories are in common foods, or even branded foods and drinks. There is a database your training. Scrabble or Sudoku would also do the same job I expect. of about 5 million foods. You can even scan the barcode of foods to assess how many calories are In our busy world, that there is often so much contained in it. The app can help you set your goals rushing about, that we spend very little time resting and track your progress and motivate you to keep up our brains, which can lead to stress overload, anxiety, your diet. depression and insomnia. Spending 10 minutes As we all know, calorie counting alone is not enough daily on a guided relaxation or meditation could be the very thing that you could try to include in your to keep you in shape, and some exercise should be daily life. I found an app called Headspace, but thrown in to the mix as well. Most smartphones there are many more. It is incredibly soothing to be come with apps for tracking fitness. The latest guided into a state of tranquility. software update for iPhone included an app for health. Look for the white app with the red heart. If you keep your phone in your pocket all day long, it Hope you may be inspired to try one of these suggestions, or to learn more about the technology can then be used to track your exercise- count your you already have. Do contact me if you would like steps, how many floors you have climbed and how to know more, or if there are any topics you would far you have walked or run. It’s incredibly like me to cover in future articles. incentivizing. If you want to track other activities, you can use Runkeeper, Nike Fitness, Strava or many others. They will map your activity, be it walking, hiking, cycling, running etc and show you how far and fast you have travelled, and compare your workouts over time. You can also see how many calories you have burned. Freeletics is an app that was recommended to me to try. It brings a gym workout to your house. It’s free, and it gives you short movies to follow like an exercise class. -

203 Whiteladies Road, Clifton, Bristol, BS8 2XT It’s all hands on decks in the next couple of months as buyers and solicitors rush to complete purchases before April’s higher stamp duty rates are applied to properties bought for buy-to-let or second home purposes. April will also see higher-rate tax relief on Landlord’s mortgage interest payments disappear. It’s an uncertain time that will certainly need expert support. And for people just looking to move? The coming months also look eventful with analysts suggesting a possible lift in house prices of between five and eight per cent. But it’s been a slow and frustrating start. The stock of unsold properties is currently the lowest ever recorded. Is it the lack of new homes that is causing the logjam or is it that people are just staying put? There are currently many challenges in the property market. However we are very used to handling challenges for our clients. Our advice, as always, is purchase carefully within your means – taking into account the Buy to Let changes and a potential interest rate rise. This year will not be a perfect one for property speculation without the greatest prudence and care. Getting the right expertise will be key. You can call the CJ Hole Clifton team for advice on all property matters on 0117 923 8238. Howard Davis MD Clifton

For Sale – Stoke Bishop - £519,950 An attractive three bedroom semi-detached family home with an extensive rear garden and garage. EPC D

For Sale – City – £450,000 This Southey House apartment is on the first floor with a large sun terrace overlooking Castle Park. It has three double bedrooms and open plan living/ dining/kitchen. EPC B

www.cjhole.com Clifton Sales 0117 923 8238 -

clifton@cjhole.co.uk

Sold – Stoke Bishop

Sold – Sneyd Park

A well presented two bedroom apartment on the top floor of a well known Druid Woods development. EPC F

A stunning Grade II listed apartment with two double bedrooms located in a tranquil area of Sneyd Park. EPC D

Let – Sneyd Park - £1,050pcm A lovely first floor apartment with double bedroom, open plan lounge/dining/kitchen and a family sized bathroom. EPC C

Let – Stoke Bishop - £1,150pcm Located in the tranquil setting of Druid Woods, this three bedroom apartment has a separate kitchen, two reception rooms, bathroom and ensuite. EPC C

Let – Sneyd Park - £1,200 pcm A purpose built two double bedroom apartment with fantastic views across The Downs, Redland and surrounding areas. EPC D

Let - City - £1,850 pcm A three storey end of terrace town house that offers: four bedrooms, three bathrooms, a carport plus panoramic views across the City. EPC D

Clifton Lettings 0117 946 6588 www.cjhole.com -

Westbury-on-Trym Guide Price £575,000 An attractively presented extended 4 bedroom 1930's semidetached family home situated in a popular side road within the 2015 Elmlea school primary admissions area. The house has been sympathetically improved provides comfortable living space for growing families. EPC – D

Westbury-on-Trym Guide Price £475,000 A classic, well presented 1930’s semi-detached family home with 3 double bedrooms, 2 large reception rooms & a conservatory situated in the popular area of Westbury-onTrym. This house is within the 2015/16 admissions area for the Westbury-on-Trym Primary Academy and the increasingly popular Free School for secondary education. EPC- D

Sneyd Park Guide Price £550,000 We are delighted to offer this stunning 3 bedroom detached mews house built by Bovis Homes in 2012 and still in superb order both externally and internally. It is particularly well presented throughout with a garage, parking space and a wonderful landscaped garden. EPC – C

Westbury-on-Trym Guide Price £625,000 An opportunity to acquire this 4 bedroom detached 1970's built house that is set in a lovely quiet cul-de-sac with a lovely garden, a garage and ample parking Situated just along the road from the popular local shops in Stoke Lane and also only a short walk to the highly reputed Elmlea School. EPC rating – D

Westbury-on-Trym Guide Price £545,000 An attractive 3 bedroom 1930's semi-detached house situated on a popular road with a circa.70 foot long level rear garden. Possessing a bright and airy feel throughout with scope for huge internal improvements (subject to necessary consents) but it is also very comfortable just as it is. EPC – E

Coombe Dingle Guide Price £450,000 An individually designed 1960's 4 bedroom detached family house set in a highly sought after location. There is still plenty of scope for anyone to put their own stamp on it but equally would be very comfortable for anyone to move straight into it just as it is. EPC – D

Selling? Call us today on 0117- 962 2299 for a FREE market appraisal -

| Here to accommodate

Happy Birthday Zest Ten years ago to the day on which I write this I left the corporate world and set up on my own. Ten years on I am reminded that at the same time back in 2006 another business was starting up here in BS9. Sam, Camilla and Richard of Zest Café & Deli on Stoke Lane opened their doors for the first time, eager, enthusiastic and welcoming. I remember this fondly because I spent many hours in Zest poring over the plans for my first magazine and secretly hoping that they might become one of my first customers. In the meantime Sam in the kitchen, Richard in the café and Camilla in the deli were busying themselves charming customers and impressing them with excellent food and service.

creatures of habit, aren’t we?) and sadly the passing of time means that some of Zest’s most loved customers are regulars are no more. The ethos of quality and service that has made Zest so successful however remains the same, even if the personnel might have changed both in terms of appearance and age. I soon hung up my apron when the magazine took off, to be replaced by younger more attractive models (Magda, Kasia and Lynne spring to mind) while more recently founder Richard headed into a retirement that seems to be one long cruise. Sam and Camilla are still on the bridge steering the good ship Zest forwards - all that has changed with them is a slight change in hair colour (less to do with fashion and more to do with the passing of a decade). Their passion for the business is clear to anyone who knows them or visits the shop regularly. They are though often supported by the next generation - sons James and Oliver are often to be seen working in the shop, and in my view the long term future of Zest is in safe hands.

My persistence paid off - not only did they become one of my first features they have also become good friends, and their persistence has paid off as Zest has established itself as a much loved local business, Camilla and younger son Oliver - Sam as ever wasn’t serving both loyal regulars and passing shoppers with quality produce and first class service. Whether or allowed out of the kitchen for the photo opportunity not Napoleon was genuinely the source of the expression, England as “a nation of shopkeepers” is So from my perspective I wanted to pass on my a concept that always makes me smile, and in Zest’s congratulations to Sam and Camilla on their first case they have a shopkeeping recipe that has served decade - thanks for the laughs, fun and breakfasts. them and their customers well. The final word (as ever) comes from Camilla - “All A lot can change in ten years - but in other ways little of us at Zest would like to take our anniversary as changes. Back then when the magazine was a the opportunity to thank all our lovely customers, fledgling brochure and hardly a full time occupation past and present, for their custom, support and I even worked in Zest on occasions. I might not friendship over the last 10 years”. have made a brilliant barista but I got to learn the art of ham slicing, the shop was a lovely place to work Zest Deli Café, in and meet people, and if I worked hard I was 130 Stoke Lane, rewarded with Sam’s scrambled eggs for lunch (the Westbury on Trym, BS9 3RJ best scrambled eggs in the world, ever!). Customers 0117 962 2848 have become regulars, with regular tables (we are www.zestdeliandcafe.co.uk -

The Downs Recorder - Richard Bland

important and urgent. If we are doing most of our tasks because they are urgent then we are not using our time effectively and we are not giving due attention to the things that are important to us. Things that are important will be those tasks or In my last article I talked about lists: the benefits and considerations that are in line with our values and ways to manage them more effectively. Maybe goals in our lives. Ideally we will be spending most of because it’s January I’ve been noticing the topic our time doing things which are important before coming up a lot recently and I’m always fascinated to they become urgent. hear about systems that work for other people.

Coaching with Anne Miller

Under the umbrella heading of ‘lists’, there are many ways of recording tasks that require action or consideration and a popular way is to use ‘post it’ notes. What’s great about this is that we don’t need to be distracted by priorities or categories; we can write just one thing per note and set it aside, to be organised later. This works particularly well if you are starting or running a project, but if you’re feeling creative there are many other uses: collecting contributions from members at a meeting or workshop or delegating tasks for example. Last week a client brought along a photograph of his desk covered with post it notes to demonstrate where he had got to in planning his business for 2016. This is a great start because it gave him an overview of all the areas to consider. With these clearly identified he is now able to consider how he wants to display them to best effect. Categorising is one option and if there are a lot, this is probably a necessary step.

Once all the post it notes have been grouped into categories, applying the urgent and/or important question will help us prioritise and allocate time slots. If there are too many things that are both urgent and important, choices will have to be made and some reconsideration also. If planning like this sounds time consuming, don’t be put off: a small investment of time now will allow a clarity that will increase your effectiveness and save you time later. How we display this collection is important too: If it looks like an overcrowded mess it will not inspire or engage you! As with any list, we will all have our preferences: don’t be afraid to experiment and find what works for you!

Visit www.annemillercoaching.co.uk for more information and to book a free consultation Tel: 07722 110 228 Working with a coach you will gain new perspectives empowering you to take actions that create positive change.

Stephen Covey in his book ‘The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People’ talks about recognising tasks as

Planning for Inheritance Tax - What To Do about the Family Home? Part Four. With residential property prices seemingly booming again in BS9 we are finding a high demand for planning around the family home, particularly where it represents a significant part of the estate and where there is a strong desire to maximise the amounts received by beneficiaries. The new additional main residence nil rate band for inheritance tax will help, but what if you are planning on downsizing? If you sell and repurchase at a lower price, would the difference become liable to inheritance tax again? Luckily, the government has recognised many people wish to downsize in later retirement. You may no longer need a large property, it may make life simpler to have less to maintain, or an alternative property might have better accessibility. The latest draft Finance Bill includes provision to gift the proceeds realised when downsizing to direct descendants on death without IHT, as long as the residence disposed of would have qualified under the residence nil rate band. While the new rules wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t come into effect until 6 April 2017, they will apply to house sales from 8 July 2015 onwards. As always with tax planning, the devil is in the detail. The precise formula for calculating the residence nil rate band and the downsizing addition is complicated so we strongly suggest seeking professional advice if you intend to take advantage of the new rules. Please remember tax rules can change and the value of any benefits will depend on your personal circumstances. Richard is a Chartered Financial Planner with a specialist interest in providing friendly, old fashioned, face to face financial advice to local people at retirement age and the elderly. He has particular expertise in investments, pensions, inheritance tax and long-term care planning. He can be contacted directly by email on richard.higgs@wealthwest.co.uk, through the website at www.wealthwest.co.uk or by telephone on 0117 966 5699.

Richard Higgs Wealth West Ltd, Trym Lodge, 1 Henbury Road, Westbury-on-Trym, Bristol BS9 3HQ

Tel. 0117 966 5699 www.wealthwest.co.uk Email richard.higgs@wealthwest.co.uk -

Stoke Bishop Fruiterers Prize Wordsearch Last month it was curry components, this month we spread the shopping bag a little wider and look at fruit and vegetables as the ingredients of the prize wordsearch. Why? I hear you ask - well because the prize this month will be a lovely fruit basket fresh kindly donated by the new owners at the Stoke Bishop Fruiterers, Sophie and Paul. You know the rules - listed below are twenty two types of fruit and veg. Twenty of them are hidden in the wordsearch puzzle - lurking forwards, backwards, up, down or on a diagonal. That means there are two fruit or veg that have gone missing. Scour the puzzle, track down the missing foods and let me know which they are. Entries need to be in by Monday 29th February - yes this is a Leap Year - to be in with a chance of winning the prize. One correct entry will be drawn from an electronic hat to determine the prize winner. Entries please by post (8 Sandyleaze, WoT, BS9 3PY), phone (0117 259 1964), text (07845 986650), tweet (@BS9Andy) or email (andy@bcmagazines.co.uk). Best of luck. Here’s what you are looking for:KIWI BANANA GRAPEFRUIT TANGERINE GRAPE RHUBARB PINEAPPLE RASPBERRY FIG APRICOT GREENGAGE

AVOCADO CUCUMBER WATERCRESS CHILLI TURNIP AUBERGINE CELERY ONION BROCCOLI POTATO PEA

Last months wordsearch answer was Paneer. Thanks to everyone who entered. The draw hasn’t been made at the time of going to print so the prize winner will be announced next month. -

Manna - Westbury Park Hands up - who remembers Derek Batey? The genial host of the gentle 1970’s game show “Mr & Mrs” when you could appear on television without needing to be a C-list nobody desperately trying to elongate a showbiz career. I used to love the show, and I was reminded of it last week when I had the real pleasure of eating out at Manna for the first time. My wife and I had planned to pop up to this highly recommended eatery on North View for “a spot of supper”, only for the good lady to come home from work streaming and sneezing and feeling more like an early night with a hot water bottle than a night out with a bottle of something cool and refreshing. “You go”, she said, “and if it is any good we can re-book”. So I did - and we will.

Manna sits opposite its stablemate Prego on the borders of Westbury Park and Henleaze and has attracted some great reviews since it opened a couple of years ago. I don’t know if there is an optimum size for a restaurant but this must be pretty close - small enough to be cosy but large enough to accommodate enough diners to generate a nice atmosphere, which there certainly was when I went on a mid-Thursday evening. My hosts for the evening were recently installed manager Alex and his wife Emily, and bar manager Jack, all of whom exuded a relaxed charm and bonhomie. When shown to my table I was immediately reminded of one of the advantages of dining alone - you get to choose which side of the table to sit. Normally I’d do the gentlemanly thing and end up with my back to the room, unable to see what is going on. No such problem this time as “Billy-no-mates” settled in, back to the wall, and enjoyed the view of happy customers, unobtrusive staff and decidedly unflappable chefs visible in the kitchen. -

Now, back to “Mr & Mrs”. We like to think we know each other well enough to know what the other person will order from a menu, or at least be able to whittle it down to a couple of choices for each course. So to replicate the game show I sent a photograph of the menu home to the poorly bird and asked her to guess what I was going to order, while I sat and perused the list myself. This made me realise how easy Mr & Mrs was because contestants only had to choose which of three options their husband or wife would select. Credit then to the team at Manna for coming up with a list of eleven starters, nine of which I would happily have ordered (and it only missed out on a full house because of my dislike for butternut squash and fennel). Clearly the choice was too much for my wife - and daughter - as both unsuccessfully selected starters for me. So the homemade local sausage with beetroot and tarragon and the scallops with beetroot and hazelnuts stayed in the kitchen as I opted instead for “Arancini with Cheek and Tail Ragu of Nailsea Beef”. Sometimes it pays to be brave in a restaurant, and while I knew what arancini were (fried balls of rice, or “little oranges” in Italian) the “cheek and tail” description might put a timid diner off. It turned out however to be one of the best things I think I have ever eaten. No really, if I had just had the dish for all three courses, and more with coffee too, I’d have gone home an exceedingly happy bloke. The arancini were crispy on the outside, sublimely light inside, flavoured with parmesan and bobbed attractively in a sea of super-rich beef sauce that was just stunning. When I return it will be hard to look beyond this on the starters listing. Main course and the family at home did just as badly - both guessed wrong again. Five choices, including two fish dishes of gurnard or sea bass, all winked at me but in the end the Overnight Lamb Shoulder, Smashed Chickpeas and Burnt Leeks seduced me the most and again delivered in spades. Rich fall-apart lamb (and lots of it) mounded up on a bed of chickpeas that were cooked so tastily I had to ask the chef for the recipe (it is a secret so I have to keep it to myself - but I will try it myself so friends might strike it lucky). Add in braised and shredded leeks and the dish was an exceedingly large triumph on a plate.

Unusually after two courses I was pretty well stuffed, such was the generosity of portion and richness of the first two rounds. Less unusually I still went for a pudding anyway - I’m a firm believer in the principle that if the chef has gone to the trouble of making deserts it is rude not to help him by consuming one. This evening he had created five final courses, as well as a cheese selection. I asked if the Amaretto Semi Fredo was a light option. “Ish” was the response and while it may not have had the solidity of the hazelnut and chocolate brownie or the blood orange cheesecake it still managed to find all the remaining gaps and left me suitably full. The almond flavouring was subtle and sweet and this was beautifully offset by the tartness of a burnt orange caramel and the crunch of a pistachio crumble. Another masterpiece.

As I concluded with a cup of English Breakfast and scribbled some notes to remind me of the highlights of a terrific meal I was interrupted with a “hello Andy” from a couple of ladies I know who, unbeknown to me, had been sat in the booth next to me all evening. Now if I had been sat in my usual position with my back to the restaurant I would have seen them and we could have chatted and compared notes. But no, so instead I made do with their departing comment “We love it here, it’s a regular thing” - and I fully understood why. Next time I hope my wife is with me - and we can play “Menu Mr & Mrs” together face to face, in whatever direction we choose. Manna, 2B North View, Westbury Park, BS6 7QB Open Monday 6-10pm (last order for food 9pm), Tuesday to Thursday 6-11pm (last orders for food 10pm), Friday & Saturday 6-11.30pm (last orders for food 10pm). Closed Sunday.

www.mannabar.co.uk Telephone 0117 970 6276 for reservations

The Veg Growers Diary - Reg Patch Well I don't want to bleat on about the weather (not an entertaining attribute says the wife) but I think it's fair to say we have had our share of the wet stuff, and my heart goes out to northern folk who have taken the brunt of things. I, for one, like seasons to be exactly that - a division of the year marked out by the changes in weather, ecology, and hours of daylight. It feels good to have snow and frosts in winter, abundant new growth in spring, summer warmth and autumnal colours. We cannot control what Mother Nature will throw at us, so best to work with her. As I write this we have been enjoying the mildest winter on record, great for low temperature sensitive plants, and of course ones energy bills! We have seen daffodils flowering in December, and plants usually dormant at this time of year springing into life. The squirrel that sits and pinches food from our bird feeder is the fattest we've ever seen! Mrs P reckons this is caused by easy pickings and lack of exercise, he best get out of her way as she will soon have him on a diet! For ecological balance, we need Plant of the Month Leeks are a delicious mild tasting winter vegetable, that are enjoyed steamed, boiled, braised or in soups or stews. Whilst they have an unfair reputation to be difficult to grow, success can be achieved following appropriate growing techniques. To grow leeks from seed, sow indoors 8-10 weeks before the last frost is predicted. Plant six seeds to a pot at least 6 inches deep and thin to 1 inch apart when plants are 3 inches tall. Growing on the cool side makes for hardier plants. There are a couple of ways to set out the seedlings, I prefer to drop plants into 6 inch deep holes made with a dibber. Do not fill the hole with soil, but water well and soil will collect around roots to anchor in place. Leeks are best planted in a sunny spot with free draining soil, and need to be watered well in dry conditions, a monthly feed of nitrogen will boost your crop. Begin harvesting leeks when they are big enough to handle, once lifted they store well in the fridge for up to two weeks. Recommended varieties are Apollo, Toledo and Pancho. -

some heavy frosts to kill off pests and diseases, that would otherwise lay dormant, gaining strength to attack emerging new plant growth. Forecasters say that a cold snap is on its way with Artic conditions expected. This will be welcomed by fruit farmers as a continuation of warmth could promote early flowering of the nations fruit trees. If a sharp frost were to follow, the blossom would be destroyed, meaning no fruit! Now is a good time to prune apple and pear trees. Start by removing dead, weak or rubbing growth. Shorten this years growth on main branches to a third, to a bud facing the direction you want it to grow in. Cut side shoots back to five or six buds. Save all pruning and dry for burning on an open fire, it gives off a delightful aroma. Gardening manuals always set out 'when to' and 'best times' for planting and sowing etc, but do be guided by the actual weather for the season currently in, as we are seeing more and more irregular weather conditions. I like to keep a gardening diary, as I attempt to plant and grow by the same methods each year. But, I get varying levels of success, and it's always good to reflect on a previous year, when about to embark on a new. Jobs for Feb. Seed potatoes can be 'chitted' now, by standing in old egg boxes eyes end up, to promote sturdy new shoots. Put potatoes on a bright window seal or greenhouse bench, and keep a watch on them, as if light levels are low weak shoots will grow and that's not a good start. I prefer to follow tradition and plant my spuds out on Good Friday - whatever the weather. Rhubarb can be divided now, if weather allows. This is a job best done every couple of years to avoid the crown becoming too congested. Lift and carefully separate the crown, retaining as much root as possible, and aim for a good shoot per clump, cut up with a sharp knife if needed to achieve suitable division. Cover the largest clump with a Rhubarb forcer for an early crop of this sherbet tasting delight, best enjoyed in a crumble with custard... champion. (continued overleaf) -

More than half a million people in the UK took part at the end of January, and counted 8,546,845 birds, in the worlds biggest wildlife survey. For one hour people recorded what birds visited their gardens. I was there with my binoculars, note pad, flask and biscuit barrel, and look forward to reading their findings. Last year saw the humble House Sparrow come out top as most spotted garden bird, followed by Starling, Blackbird, Blue Tit, Pigeon, Chaffinch, Robin, Great Tit, Goldfinch and Collared Dove. With the weather having an impact on plants, it also does on wildlife. Let's not forget our feathered friends and put out bird feed, and ensure a supply of fresh water, as they will be more vulnerable at this time of year. Top Tip of the Month Now is a good time to prepare for the impending growing season. Wash all seed trays and pots, to limit chances of disease. Get out the propagator and ensure it's working correctly, and obtain fleece or bubble wrap to insulate an unheated greenhouse against the elements. Purchase seed growing compost, vermiculite and labels. Select seeds if you have not already done so... and you're raring to go!

My cheeky Robin also enjoys the odd cake crumb or two... that said so do I.. Book of the Month How to Grow Winter Vegetables By Charles Dowding ÂŁ10.00 In the depth of Winter months this excellent book shows how it can be possible to enjoy an abundance of Winter vegetables. They may be harvested from fresh, or from previously being stored. It also covers growing for the 'hungry gap' from April to early June. The book tells the reader how you will need to carefully plan well ahead, for sowing and planting at specific times throughout the year. The main part of the book has an extensive sowing and growing calendar, most useful to anyone new to veg growing. Further sections cover harvesting, storing and protecting crops during winter months. The beauty of Winter and it's produce are captured in glorious photographs from the authors garden. A great winter read.

Happy Gardening

Bruce Fellows’ Good Reads One Man Tango is the frank and intriguing autobiography of Anthony Quinn, star of La Strada, Zorba the Greek and countless other films. Quinn’s father rode with Mexican revolutionary Pancho Villa but then took the family to California where he eventually found work in movies. The young Tony gave up architecture in favour of acting but even marrying Cecil B. De Mille’s daughter didn’t bring immediate success. The book has Quinn on a cycle ride which prompts countless memories of his acting career and of the many women who shared his life. Quinn knew everyone and has great stories to tell, not just his own.

counterpoints to the stories of the three artists. Barker brilliantly conveys the fear, the horror and the absolute exhaustion experienced by all but also the strange inspiration for art that the raids occasionally produce.

Chan Koonchung, in his novel The Unbearable Dreamworld of Champa the Driver, presents a racy and, to Western eyes, disturbing portrait of modern China and its domination of Tibet. When business woman Plum persuades car mad Tibetan Champa to dump his taxi and become her paramour as well as the driver of her huge new 4x4 Toyota, Champa finally achieves the ambition of all Tibetans and visits Beijing. This is a riproaring read featuring sex, daylight-destroying clouds High flying law professor Claire Chapman has of pollution, racism, selfeverything: professional success, a beautiful immolation, dog trafficking daughter, a wonderful husband, Tom. Then after and a vibrant and booming dinner at the local mall two men in suits arrive to black economy. It manages arrest Tom and turn Claire’s life upside down. to be both funny and Joseph Finder’s fast-paced and always gripping frightening while remaining thriller, High Crimes, gives a blow by blow account surprisingly optimistic about of how Claire copes with China. hearing shocking allegations of mass-murder against her In Six Poets, Alan Bennett edits an anthology of husband and how she work by British verse giants Hardy, Houseman, defends him in court Betjeman, Auden, MacNeice and Larkin; no, no against the might of the women. Seventy wonderful poems are chosen and Pentagon. Fascinating legal in his brief biographies and comments, Bennett is as lore, black-hearted villains, endearing as ever: ‘a poem should be understandable skulduggery in high places at first hearing’, ‘how baffled one can feel in the face and an ending that comes of books.’ He drops in out of left field make this a delightful snippets, too: novel that’s impossible to Larkin said, ‘Deprivation is put down. for me what daffodils are for Wordsworth’; It’s 1940 and the artist protagonists of Pat Barker’s Houseman, author of ‘A two previous novels: Life Class and Toby’s Room Shropshire Lad’, didn’t now complete the trilogy in the magnificent know Shropshire very well Noonday. Elinor, Paul and Kit are in London, still and wrote his great work painting but this time also slogging through the prompted by a prolonged nightly air raids as ambulance drivers and air-raid sore throat. Hardy’s cat was wardens. Buildings fall and relationships crumble called Kiddleywinkempoops but like London, they soldier on. An unlovely Trot. evacuee and an even less lovely medium provide Bruce Fellows 2016 -

We would like to invite all who enjoy making music to join us on February 27 th 2016. We hope those who can sing and those who are not so confident, will come along and experience a day of music making. It will be a day for people of all ages and all abilities. For those who feel they would love to sing but feel a bit unsure, come and have a go! For those of you already in a choir do come and have a day to enjoy with perhaps a different style of singing. We were unable to get ‘Gareth Malone’! however the day will be lead by Bristol’s own Barbara Rusbridge and her team. The venue is Redland Park United Reform Church, Whiteladies Road. BS6 6SA. Doors open at 9.30 to start singing at 10.00am. We will finish at about 4pm and will sing all we have been practising for family and friends who would like to join us. Beverages will be available also soup and rolls, or bring your own lunch.

To register your interest contact : Jane Beazer 01179623922 or janebeazer@blueyonder.co.uk -

Her Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary reported a 31% national increase in reports of domestic abuse between 2013 and 2015 and that not enough is being Most people think of violent behaviour when they done to protect victims. This included our own see the term ‘domestic abuse’ and don’t consider this Somerset and Avon Police force. Although a priority in our fairly affluent area. However a new domestic violence was a top priority, burglary was law came into force on 29 December that reinforces rated higher. Officers needed a better understanding the message that domestic abuse also applies to of domestic abuse and better management for the coercive and controlling behaviour by partners or protection of victims was required. family members, and that it can be found in the most ‘respectable’ of households, as in the recent storyline Polly Neate, chief executive of Women’s Aid, hopes in Radio 4’s “The Archers” where middle-class that the new law will lead to a real culture change so outwardly charming but manipulative Rob Titchener that every woman experiencing control can get the is slowly reducing his wife Helen from an support she needs to break free safely." independent business woman and mother to a Of course, it is not just women who are the victims surrendered wife whose only valued role is to serve in such cases and men can find it very difficult to him up a tasty casserole. Helen, who thought she had come forward and get help. Witness testimony can found the perfect partner, is gradually losing be supported at prosecution through a variety of confidence and suffering mental ill health as she ways, including documentary evidence of threatening ceases to trust her own judgement. She is also losing emails and text messages, or bank statements that her financial independence which will make her and show the perpetrator sought to control the victim her son all the more dependent on Rob, so leaving financially. him presents a huge challenge. The Council has sought to ensure that domestic The drama has abuse is a priority in all Neighbourhood Partnerships stirred up so and this should include our NP. Let’s hope that the much reaction new law and the developments in “The Archers” that the national story-line help promote a culture change and press have encourage anyone in an abusive relationship to seek commented and the support they need. the actor has had to take himself If you would like more information, advice or off social media. support on domestic abuse, here are some useful It has provoked telephone numbers: wide-spread comments from people in similar situations, eg Annette: “I am quite intelligent but it Nationally took me nearly 15 years to see through a partner like this. I ended up being physically abused as well.” ▪ National Domestic Violence Freephone Helpline: 0808 200 247; The new law is designed to protect victims from such extreme psychological and emotional abuse and ▪ Men’s Advice line: 0808 801 0327. the maximum penalty for the new offence in England and Wales is five years in prison and a fine. Locally: Home Secretary, Theresa May said: "Coercive control can be tantamount to torture. In many cases, ▪ Next Link (for women and children): dominance over the victim develops and escalates 0117 925 0680; over the years until the perpetrator has complete control. Putting a foot wrong can result in violent ▪ Womankind, a Bristol Women’s therapy outbursts, with victims living in fear for their lives." centre 0845 458 2914 or 0117 916 6461. She added that coercive and controlling behaviour can include the abuser preventing their victim from See also the Council’s website: having friendships or hobbies, refusing them access www.bristol.gov.uk and search for Domestic to money and determining many aspects of their Violence and Abuse. everyday life.

Domestic Abuse - Glenise Morgan

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

- 1,600 children die every day for the want of clean water. Proceeds from their stall at various Christmas Fairs have helped provide warm winter coats for In recent issues, including this month, a new not-for- homeless refugee children. profit company has been advertising to encourage local individuals interested in crafting and baking, Any profits made by the company will be donated to especially to raise funds for charitable causes, to join charity. their database. The name is Onen Hag Oll (UK) Ltd which is Cornish Celtic for 'One and All'. The biggest venture to date is raising the phoenix of the Canford Park May Fayre on Sunday May 22nd. Like me, you may have seen the ad and wondered what this new venture is all about? As well as a fundraising outlet for our local, and talented, crafters and bakers, they hope to make it a BS9 residents David and Venita Vicary have been Family Funday with fairground rides, flying frogs, fundraising for various charities for over 40 years, racing pigs, a circus juggler and a rhythm for life but on many occasions had not been able to find drummer providing entertainment for the kids. suitable events to sell home made items or promote their work or cause. They became aware that other, Many charities are equally enthusiastic fundraisers had similar problems, already supporting and so have established Onen Hag Oll to arrange the Fayre and I such events, with an emphasis on providing outlets know that David for charity fundraising. and Venita will look forward to seeing The first venture was a sing along concert with all you there. proceeds going to Wateraid - on the night they raised enough for four fresh water wells in African villages

The story behind â&#x20AC;&#x153;One and Allâ&#x20AC;?

14th February - Valentines Day. Celebrate this most romantic of months with Kemps Jewellers We have some beautiful gift ideas at prices youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll love - and we are offering a complementary rose with every jewellery purchase up to 14th February If you need help we offer professional and friendly advice and once youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve chosen that special gift we will also wrap it beautifully for you

Kemps Jewellers 9 Carlton Court, Westbury on Trym 0117 950 50 90 www.kempsjewellers.com -

You tell us what you want to achieve and we will help you achieve it. Tell us what concerns you have and we will find a solution. 76 Macrae Road, Eden Office Park, Ham Green, Bristol, BS20 0DD 01275 373348

AUTO ENROLMENT - Do you employ anyone?

Have you heard of Auto Enrolment? If not or if you have, but have put it on the ‘to do’ list, it may well be you are reaching a time when you can put this issue off no longer. Since 2012 (with the largest employers first), all employers in the UK have had to provide an appropriate pension scheme to their employees. -

Now as we go into 2016 those companies employing less than a handful of people are having to deal with this issue. Failure to do so results in fines and these are being imposed by the Government. By now you should be aware of your staging date and you need to be in a position where you have a plan of action of how you will deal with this. If you are a little behind in respect of this, don’t worry -

there may be time to catch up, but there is a great deal to learn and do, so procrastinate no longer!

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Does it affect you? It is true that most companies are affected by this, but not all. This depends on the age and earnings of those people employed. We have also found the very occasional situation where a pension scheme may not have to be established straight away and possibly not at all, so knowing if this applies to you is important.

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You will most likely have to pay into the pension but how much it will cost depends on various issues which you need to be aware of. Most employees will have to be automatically enrolled into the scheme.

Help is at Hand What is clear is that some companies need assistance with this, but often the costs in seeking information and advice are prohibitive. This is why we at Grosvenor Consultancy Ltd have devised a menu approach to our Auto Enrolment proposition, particularly for small companies. You decide which issues you need help with and we will provide you with that specific level of service.

Automating as many of the requirements as possible is important and making sure your pension scheme runs smoothly in conjunction with If it does affect you… your payroll provision is perhaps the most You are required to establish an Auto Enrolment important aspect – well that and making sure you scheme, what are some of the things you need to are signed off by The Pensions Regulator and do? avoid any potential fines!

  

You need to decide ‘who’ in your Phil James company will deal with this.

Grosvenor Consultancy Ltd.

You have to offer a pension scheme and 01275 373348 decide which one. You need to consider how the pension contributions will be compatible with The Financial Conduct Authority does not regulate tax advice and some forms of offshore investments. The your payroll arrangements.

value of investments and the income from them can fall

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You will have to communicate this with as well as rise and you may not get back the full amount you invested. your employees.

AASP Domestics Repairs and servicing: Washing machines, cookers, hobs, ovens, dishwashers, fridges, tumble dryers and all other appliances

Call Steve Pinnell

07720 735 943 / 0117 965 8363 -

Dogwoods

sanguinea ’Midwinter Fire’ should be more lightly pruned, cutting back a few of the stems and reducing the length of others. Once the pruning is done, give the plant a good dose of compost to kick-start fresh growth.

Let’s face it, most gardens don’t look great in winter, so plants that add seasonal colour and interest are particularly welcome. One of the most dramatic is dogwood, sporting brightly coloured stems that glow and sizzle in the low winter sun, lighting up subdued corners of the garden.

To see dogwoods growing on a large and spectacular scale, visit public gardens with winter displays. Most will also grow spring bulbs and exquisitely scented winter-flowering shrubs such as Daphne, so they will delight your senses in more ways than one.

Dogwoods are members of the wide-ranging Cornus family. Not all Cornus have colourful stems, so look out for Cornus alba, Cornus sericea and Cornus sanguinea cultivars. Popular choices include Cornus alba ‘Sibirica’ which has vivid red stems, Cornus sericea ‘laviramea’ (shown here) which is a gorgeous lime and olive green, and the burning orange of Cornus sanguinea ‘Midwinter Fire’.

Sir Harold Hillier Gardens in Hampshire, RHS Wisley in Surrey and Cambridge University Botanic Garden are just three that are well worth venturing out into the cold for.

Gardening with Cathy Lewis

Dogwoods should be planted in groups of at least five to look eye-catching. Mixing and matching different colours also looks good – in particular, swathes of red Cornus alba ‘Sibirica’ and green Cornus sericea ‘Flaviramea’ will complement each other perfectly. The effect is even better if you underplant with contrasting ground cover such as variegated ivy or black mondo grass, or set them against a backdrop of hedges and walls. Winter stem dogwoods are easy to grow and tolerate a wide range of soils. They are happy in shade but their stems look much more dramatic lit by sunlight. Once established, it’s important to prune dogwoods properly. New stems have the strongest colour, so to encourage these, cut the stems right back to just above a bud at the base of the plant every spring. The less robust Cornus

A spectacular display of dogwoods, ornamental grasses and Hellebores at the Sir Harold Hillier Gardens, Hampshire

Cathy Lewis, Dip. PSGD Cathy Lewis Gardens & Design Professional garden design, consultancy & maintenance Tel. 07985 008 585 www.cathylewisgardens.co.uk

What’s On & Community News Listings for community events, not-for-profit clubs and charitable activities are free of charge. If you have something of this nature that you would like listed please get in touch by calling 0117 259 1964 or 07845 986650, post details in to 8 Sandyleaze, WoT, BS9 3PY or emailing andy@bcmagazines.co.uk. All notices must be received by the 15th of the preceding month to guarantee consideration for inclusion. Details shown are accurate to the best of my knowledge, but dates, times & locations may change without notification. So if you are unsure, and to avoid disappointment, please contact the organiser listed to double check.

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. Experience of orchestral playing not essential. For more info please contact the Secretary on 968 3998. 'Vocal Harmony' - an exciting contemporary choir based in Bristol. Meet new people, 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 modern music by the likes of Adele, Michael Jackson, Stevie Wonder, Take That, Queen, all parts are taught in call and response. We run three 10 week terms, with a performance at the end of each term. eliza@vocalharmonychoir.co.uk for more info or check out www.vocalharmonychoir.co.uk

Ship & Castle Theatre Co present "Breaking The Code" at the Newman Hall, WOT, Bristol, BS9 4DR from Monday 29th Feb - Friday 4th Mar. Westbury on Trym Methodist Church Tickets £10 each. “Breaking The Code” by Hugh Orchestra are a group of instrumentalists of all Whitemore is a play about mathematician Alan ages who play for morning worship once a month. Turing who was a key player in breaking the Our rehearsal time is before the service from German Enigma code at Bletchley Park during 10am. If you play any orchestral instrument, but World War 2 and founder of modern day particularly violin, you are very welcome to join us. computer science. The play links Alan Turing’s Experience of orchestral playing is not essential, cryptography with his attempts to grapple with his but you will need to be able to read music. We are homosexuality. To book your tickets please a friendly and helpful group, who enjoy playing telephone 07745 208639 or email together. Parts are always provided for personal shipandcastletickets@yahoo.co.uk. The auditorium practice. To find out more telephone 9686589. will open at approximately 19:00 for you to select your unreserved seat. Performances will start at Organ Elevenses at Westbury Parish Church on 19:30. Saturday February 13th from 10-30am. A welcome return from John Marsh, well-known in Bristol as a The choir at Horfield Parish Church, consisting popular and versatile musician. He is much in of adults and children, sings at 10.00 a.m. Mass on demand as organist, composer, conductor, Sundays, and once a month, also presents an accompanist and adjudicator. He was Director of evening service with more elaborate music - either Music at St. Mary Redcliffe for many years and is a fully choral evensong or a service of readings and now D of M at the Lord Mayor's Chapel. He was music. New singers are always welcome, and at on the music staff at Clifton College for most of present, more sopranos and altos are particularly his teaching career. Luscious cake and real coffee required. For further information, please contact served from 10-30 followed by recital at the Director of Music on 0117 3300792 11. Donations of minimum £5, please, (to include refreshments!) for the Church Organ Fund. The The Mosaic Singers are a compact group and guest organist for Sat. March 5th will be Daniel currently seek an accomplished Bass to complete a Moult. nicely balanced mix of voices. We rehearse in Stoke Bishop on Tuesday evenings, where a warm West Bristol Orchestra. A chamber orchestra, and friendly welcome is assured. Please phone playing a wide range of classical music arranged for David on 0797 346 0994. Theatre, Concerts & Music

Henbury Singers’ Spring Concert is at 7.30pm on 19th March 2016 in support of the Jessie May Trust at Trinity-Henleaze United Reform Church. The programme, directed by Richard Jones will Bristol Bach Choir and the Liberty Brass Ensemble include Vivaldi Gloria. Tickets £10 (£8 conc., £5 present Rutter’s Gloria, Poulenc’s Mass in G students). Henbury Singers welcome new and Finzi's Lo, the Full Final Sacrifice. members. We meet at Stoke Bishop Primary Saturday 5 March 2016, 7.30pm at Bristol School in Cedar Park on Thursday - 7:45 Cathedral. Liberty Brass Ensemble, a group of to 9:15 pm. Fees are currently £40 per term. There exceptionally talented young professional musicians is no audition. We sing mainly choral music from a based in the South West, who delighted audiences classical tradition, but we also sing carols, songs at the choir’s Christmas concerts, return to from musicals, gospel and folk songs. For perform alongside Bristol Bach Choir in the membership or concert tickets contact Maggie magnificent surroundings of Bristol Cathedral. In Cavanna 0117 973 4794 or all, an evening to enthrall, entertain and challenge. secretary@henburysingers.org or tickets can be Tickets: £22, 17, 14,10; students and under 25s, £5. bought on the door. Visit bristolbach.org.uk/tickets or call 0117 214 0721 Nova Bristol’s new early music vocal ensemble invite you to ‘Passion’, our next concert on March Bristol Choral Society and Music for Awhile 13th. The music is by some of the greatest present Johann Sebastian Bach “St Matthew European composers of the 15th and 16th centuries, Passion” on Saturday 12th March 2016 6.00 pm, Lassus, Victoria, Guerrero, Mouton, Manchicourt Colston Hall, Bristol BS1 5AR. Tickets from £10 and the English 15th century composer John to £25. (under 25s £5.00, Seniors 10% discount). Browne. The music follows the events from Palm Full details at www.bristolchoral.co.uk. Book Sunday to Easter. In the stunning acoustic of All online or by phone on 0845 652 1823 Saints Church Clifton, the concert starts at 7.30pm. Admission is by programme (£8) at the door. We Henleaze Ladies Choir is a friendly and hope to see you there. www.choirsites.co.uk/Nova welcoming group which meets in St Peters Church Hall, Henleaze, on Thurs between September and An evening of entertainment by Avon and May from 1.45 – 3.45 pm (with a short break for Somerset Constabulary Male Voice Choir on tea). We give 2 charity concerts a year in Saturday 20th February at 7.30 pm. Trinity December and May in St Peters Church Hall and Henleaze United Reform Church, Waterford Road, from time to time we are invited to entertain Henleaze. Tickets £7.50 including a glass of wine. community groups around the city. There are also Contact Jenny 9620108 for tickets or more occasional social events organised. We are always information. pleased to see new members but would particularly welcome first sopranos at the moment. Please Bristol Cathedral Choir School Choral Society come and try a rehearsal without obligation. To is always looking for new singers to join our choir! find out more please contact either Jane English We are an enthusiastic amateur choir specialising (0117 951 1430 or 07752 332278) or Jean mainly in classical works (ancient to modern). We Wickham (0117 962 4466): are loosely associated with the Choir School, joining in with some of their concerts and using the Bristol Cabot Choir is delighted to welcome new school (on College Green) for practice on members for all voice parts. Why not come and Wednesday evenings. There is no audition and no sing with us for 2/3 ‘taster’ rehearsals before a requirement for musical expertise. Contact simple audition? We meet at Redland URC on Matthew Smith mattmsmith@virginmedia.com if Mondays at 7.30 pm More info via you are interested. m.h.morse@btinternet.com, www.bristolcabotchoir.org; or Facebook. Out There Music Bristol Children's Choir has been running for eight years and we have recently moved to Cotham School. The new rehearsal

What’s On & Community News

Henleaze Tennis Club Daytime Ladies

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are holding open mornings on Monday 14th March, Thursday 17th March and Monday 11th April

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starting at 9.30am and would love to welcome any ladies who would like to attend. These are relaxed, social mornings (free of charge) and open to players of all standards whether you have played recently or not!

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Just turn up or give Anne Dickins a call on 01179 621066 to find out more.

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Clifton Swim School Established 1972

Courses for children 4.5 years & over. Classes for non-swimmers, improvers, ASA awards for distance badges, speed, Bronze, Silver, Gold & Honours Challenge, snorkelling & diving. Friendly & sympathetic tuition from professional staff, experts in small group teaching in warm & pleasant surroundings. Clifton High School private pool Clifton Park Rd, BS8 3HL

2016 Easter Swim School 10 half-hour lessons mornings 9am - 1pm 28th March - 8th April 2016 (weekdays only)

Bookings by telephone - 0117 973 7245 (9am-6pm) Mrs P Holmyard, ASA Coach Wood Lodge, Valley Road, Bristol BS8 3PZ

www.cliftonswimschool.com

What’s On & Community News facility is amazing and is helping build the Choir into something quite special. Founded by local musician Tom Jones, the Choir is open to children age 7-13 from any school in Bristol. We meet every Wednesday in term time in the Performing Arts Studio, Cotham School, BS6 6DT from 4.45pm – 6.00pm. Come along to a free taster session before deciding whether to audition. We sing songs that children are guaranteed to love and we always have fun! For more information contact Holly Shannon on admin@outtheremusicbristol.co.uk / 07866 587424 www.outtheremusicbristol.co.uk Stoke Bishop Ladies Choir meet at Stoke Bishop Village Hall, new members welcome and no auditions are necessary. We are a friendly group that sings for pleasure, and we hold a concert at the end of each term (Christmas and Easter) to raise money for charity. Please contact Maureen on 9567894 or Carolyn on 2791409 for more information. Gardening & Horticulture Sea Mills Garden Club have regular monthly meetings, every 3rd Wednesday, held at Sea Mills Methodist Rooms, Sea Mills Square at 7.30 pm. Our forthcoming programme of talks is :- 17th February, Jim Billings - Spring's Around the Corner (lets hope so!); 16th March, Nick Macer Global Plants; and 20th April, Dede Liss - Heritage Breads & Grains. Visitors always welcome at £3 per meeting. Hope to see you there. FFI contact Gail Mitchell 0117 9685350 or Esme James 0117 9682571. Henleaze & District Flower Club meets on the second and fourth Thursdays of the month at Bradbury Hall, Waterford Road in Henleaze. Flower demonstrations are held on the second Thursday and practice classes on the fourth Thursday. New members always welcome. For more details please contact Debra ward on 07974 937741 or email debragailward@hotmail.com Friends of Old Sneed Park Nature Reserve. It only costs £5 a year to become a friend of the nature reserve, a wonderful area for wildlife in -

Stoke Bishop. The land is owned by the council and run with the help of volunteers & Friends. There are 4 informative newsletters a year, and regular events on the reserve. Check www.spnaturereserve.com for more details and to download an application form to become a Friend. Henleaze Garden Club is a thriving club for anyone interested in anything to do with gardening! We meet the first Wednesday of each month in the main hall at St Monica's, Cote Lane, with a summer break when the club arranges coach trips. Expert speakers, a quarterly newsletter, and great Christmas event. Annual membership is £20 plus a £1 per visit, visitors are most welcome at £5 per visit. Contact Brian Dury on 9621227 or www.henleazegardenclub.co.uk for more info. Fitness, Sport, Walking & Dancing Shirehampton Cricket Club welcomes new members to join our fantastic local club. All playing ages and abilities from Junior Beginner to Experienced Senior will be encouraged to improve their skills. If you are enthusiastic, willing to learn and want to enjoy the excellent facilities at Shirehampton then please contact shirehamptoncc@gmail.com and see website www.shirecc.net for more information. Check out the dates for indoor practice sessions that start in February. Westbury Walkers is a group of walkers who assemble at Lloyds Chemist Canford Lane Westbury on Trym. We meet usually at 9.20 am on a Tuesday morning. New walkers always welcome. If you would like details of any of our forthcoming walks please contact Jean Maish 0117 3301194 / 07789 741892, email jmaish@blueyonder.co.uk. Drop-In Healing Centre at The Friends Meeting House, 126 Hampton Road, Redland, BS6 6JE. Thursdays from 5.00pm to 6.30pm. Run by Bristol Healing Group on a donation basis and supported by members of NFSH The Healing Trust. Healing is beneficial for well-being and health, helping you to relax and feel better. Come along and try a healing session, everyone is welcome. For more information phone 0117 9820184. Bristol Shambhala Meditation Group offers free meditation instruction from a qualified instructor at -

Holy Trinity Church Churchyard â&#x20AC;&#x201C; We need your help

To keep our churchyard safe we need to test all of the monuments regularly and the unsafe ones are laid down flat. Some of them though, with some remedial work, can be left standing. Dear fellow villagers of Westbury on Trym, The church council has spent some money We are a very blessed community with so much on this over recent years, doing this remedial that makes living here a great pleasure. One of work but there is a limit to what we can do. these aspects of our community life is our This letter is a request all who live in Westbury parish churchyard. Many walk through the churchyard every day or jog through it. Others on Trym and who enjoy the churchyard to make a contribution, if they can, to maintain sit in it during a lovely day or walk their dogs the monuments and ensure that as many as through it regularly. It is a special place for us all to enjoy in a host of ways, even our church possible can remain standing. This will ensure that we have a safe churchyard and a beautiful school uses it to do flora and fauna surveys. one which can all enjoy for the years to come. Many thanks for considering this. If you would like to make a contribution, please send a cheque payable to Westbury Parish Church PCC to the Parish Office, Church Road, Westbury on Trym, BS9 3EQ. Please indicate on the back that it is for the monuments in the churchyard.

Our monuments in the churchyard are lovely and some very ancient and make our churchyard a very special but each of these monuments belong to the family who erected them and they ought to maintain them. Over time many of the families have lost touch or moved away from the places where their ancestors have been buried.

All monies given for this request will be ring fenced for this work only. Thank you for your support

Fr. Andre Hart, Vicar

What’s On & Community News the Open House evening each Wednesday from 7.30 - 9.30 pm at 17 Lower Redland Road, BS6 6TB. For further info please see our website: www.bristol.shambhala.info 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 or email taijiworks@phonecoop.coop or see www.taijiworks.co.uk

10:30 (improver), 10:30-11:30 (beginner), Wednesday 18:15-19:15 (intermediate); Southmead Community Centre 12:10-12:50 (mixed ability). For bookings call Leanne 07817 189474 or visit www.pilatesdowntime.co.uk Henleaze Tennis Club has vacancies for players of all standards and ages. Whether you are an established player looking for a club, someone who is rusty or a student come along and try us out. For further information take a look at our adverts on p75 & p79, www.henleazeltc.com or contact the secretary Philip Price Tel: 07787 566246 E-mail: philpriceqs@gmail.com Zumba Gold / Light 5.30pm/ Zumba Fitness 6.35pm. Westbury -on-Trym Village Hall. Weds. £5 on door. Just drop in with water and a sense of humour! Phone Marie on 963 4104 or visit www.bristoldancezumba.co.uk for more info.

Dance fitness - for flexibility, co-ordination and body conditioning, exercise to music every Tuesday, 2pm - 3pm at Filton Folk Centre, Elm Park, BS34 7PS. Have fun whilst keeping fit, all abilities welcome. For further information, contact Ladies Badminton. A friendly group that meets Eileen Scott, 07969929733, e: on Tuesday mornings is looking for some more scottyartois@hotmail.com, or visit www.emdp.org players. Westbury Village Hall, Eastfield Road, 9.45 am to 12 noon. Please contact Anne on 909 1714 Moves Fitness - exercise to music for all ages and for more details. fitness levels at St. Peter's Church Hall, Henleaze, every Wednesday morning from 10am to 11am. Tai Chi Classes for beginners in the New Year. The class carries on throughout the summer. The Always wanted to try Tai Chi? For centuries the session consists of structured and enjoyable Chinese have practised Tai Chi as simple but routines designed to promote overall fitness and powerful form of exercise for strength, balance and mobility. You put as much energy as you feel like it mindfulness. Always want to give it a try, now you on the day and you should leave feeling great. This don't have to go to China. The Bristol School of is a friendly welcoming class - come and give it a Tai Chi has lots of daytime and evening classes in try - £5 per session. Phone Jane on 9681042 for Henleaze and Bishopston starting from the 11 more information, website www.movesfitness.com January. Try something new in 2016! Any questions contact Ben Milton, 0117 9493955, Tai Chi Movements for Wellbeing (TMW) is a taichi@bristoltaichi.com, www.bristoltaichi.com specially developed sequence of movements which promotes physical, mental and emotional health. Get Involved in Netball. The Avon Netball Based on the essential elements of both Tai Chi League is well established in Bristol and welcomes and Chi Kung, the simple TMW sequence is easy all types of players – whether new to netball, taking to learn, allowing greater confidence, reducing it up after a few years absence and all the way up to stress and releasing tension. Courses start regularly premier division teams that cater for high level at Trinity-Henleaze URC, Waterford Road, BS9. players. Independents Netball Club is a friendly £68 including DVD or book for support at home. team looking to recruit new members, with training Contact experienced teacher Jackie Wright on on Monday evenings at Red Maids School. Please 07741 609885/jackie@tmwtraining.com email bristolnetball@hotmail.co.uk for more information. Pilates Classes at Henleaze URC, Monday 9.3010.30 & 10.30-11.30 (mixed ability), 11:30-12:30 The Lawrence Weston Badminton Club play at (Postnatal),18:30-19:30 (beginner), Tuesday 9:30the Greenaway Centre ,Greystoke Ave in -

Henleaze Tennis Club is a small, friendly, traditional tennis club offering play of all standards to all who are interested. Regular club players would like to invite all comers to Open Afternoons on the following dates:

Saturday 13th February 2.30-4.30pm, Sunday 13th March 2.30-4.30pm, and

Sunday 10th April 2.30-4.30pm. These are free, no obligation sessions with tea and cakes afterwards! Come and join in whether you are looking for a club or not. We like to meet new people and share our enjoyment of tennis! Just turn up or call Heather Forrest on 01179 9247441 to find out more.

What’s On & Community News Southmead on a Monday night from 7.00pm until 8.30pm. Our players are of a good standard, both male and female, and we are a very friendly club. We would welcome new players – please contact Marilyn on 0117 239 1005 for more details. Scottish Country Dancing for beginners and experienced dancers at St Monica Trust’s Hall on Thursdays, 7.30 pm. New dancers welcome, come on your own or with friends. Contact Margaret, 01275 794638 or Graham 01275 854782, or visit www.rscdsbristolinfo.co.uk Lipreading class. An evening lipreading class to help you cope with your hearing loss runs in Clifton from 6.15pm to 7.45pm every Monday, term time only, at Redland Park United Reformed Church, Whiteladies Road. Fee is £6 per session. For more details email Mary Hall at lipreadingmary@yahoo.com or telephone 07790 283 939.

www.bristolzumba.com or tel: 07545 625 089.

Westbury Scottish Club country dancing classes for beginners at Leonard Hall, Trinity-Henleaze URC, Waterford Road, Henleaze. Tel. Maggie on 01934 838175. Classes for more advanced dancers at St Peter’s Church Hall, Henleaze. Tel. Cheryl on 0117 9590970. Every Tues 7.30 - 9.30pm. See www.wscbristol.com for details. Volunteering & Charities REMAP is a registered charity that designs and makes custom aids which enable a disabled person to enjoy a better quality of life. We design, make or modify equipment to suit their specific needs. No charge is made for our services. Please contact us if we can help - visit www.remapbristol.org.uk, contact Colin 01275 460288 colin305@gmail.com or contact Ray 0117 9628729 rwestcott@blueyonder.co.uk

Team members needed. At Bristol Child Contact Centre in Henleaze children of all ages spend time with the parent they no longer live with, in a Fancy a ramble? How about joining us for session supported by our volunteers. Most of the enjoyable 8-10 mile walks on two Sundays per ‘contact parents’ are fathers, so we would month ? Our usual group size is 12-15 walkers. especially welcome more men to join us. The Interested ? If so, please come and give Stoke volunteer team prepares the hall and toys, serves Lodge Ramblers a try. FFI refreshments, welcomes parents and children, www.stokelodgeramblers.wordpress.com or phone listens non-judgmentally when needed, and keeps Secretary 0117 9684140. everyone safe and happy. If this appeals to you, and you’d be free to join our Saturday volunteer Bristol based charity LinkAge hold a number of rota every 4-6 weeks, do get in touch for further fitness classes for the over 55’s running in the details. You will get an enhanced DBS check, Henleaze area. Contemporary Dance 55+ on training and support, plus the satisfaction of Monday from 10am-11am at Bradbury Hall, maintaining a much-valued service which helps Trinity Henleaze Church. Cost £4. Tai Chi 55+ on families stay in touch after separation. For more Tuesday between 11am-12pm at Studland Court information see our website Community Room, Henleaze. Cost £3.50. Zumba www.bristolchildcontactcentre.org.uk. and/or ring Gold 55+ on Helen or Anna on 07511 290505. Tuesday between 1pm-2pm at St Peters Church, Henleaze. Cost £4. For more details please contact Wanted - Volunteer Drivers for transport, once Laura on 0117 353 3042 or visit or twice a week, of local elderly patients to the www.LinkAgeBristol.org.uk Westbury doctors’ surgery or to a hospital. We have a small group of volunteer drivers, all over Zumba Gold Class @ Horfield Parish Church 50, who enjoy being active in the Westbury Hall every Weds 2pm-2.45pm (£4.00 per class) for community. Please come and join us and the mature movers aimed at age 55+ (All other experience the gratification from helping others in ages including Beginners) Zumba Class your own neighbourhood. We operate within the @ Orchard School every Thurs 7pm-8pm Charity RSVP-West, who provide us with liability Contact Georgina for further details on insurance for these drives and with practical help -

Inheritance and the Changing Family

effectively denied their inheritance

While many of the families who seek our advice on planning for inheritance remain a traditional structure, there are increasing numbers of more complicated families. There are often challenging issues to resolve when advising on succession planning for modern-day families.

It is key that the possibility of such an eventuality is considered, and that the terms of the Will are drafted to prevent this outcome.

Second Families As the number of second and third marriages increase, the concern for many who have children from a first marriage, will be how to meet the needs of their current spouse, while ensuring that their children are not denied their inheritance. One option is to create a Will under which the surviving spouse is given a life interest in the estate, on the basis that the assets will eventually pass on to the children of the first marriage, on that spouse’s death. An alternative is to trust the surviving spouse to do the ‘right thing’, which might perhaps be to leave their estate divided between the children of each side of the family.

Unmarried Families The Intestacy Rules (which determine how an estate passes where no Will is left) have not kept pace with the changing structure of society. The Intestacy Rules do not provide for any automatic inheritance by unmarried partners, however long the couple have lived together. A claim against the estate can be made by the surviving partner, but only if they have been living with the deceased throughout the two years to the date of death, or were receiving financial support from them. It is clearly vital that unmarried partners have created a valid Will providing for the surviving partner, and that the terms of the Will are kept up to date in light of any change in circumstances.

For advice on Wills, Trusts, Lasting What happens if the surviving spouse sets up a Powers of Attorney new Will leaving their estate entirely to their and the own children, leaving out the children of their administration of former spouse? These children may be deceased estates effectively disinherited, since some will be contact Shelley unable to make a claim against the estate. Faulkner (r), and the other members The Inheritance (Provision for Family and of the private client Dependants) Act 1975 sets out the categories of team at AMD Solicitors on those who are permitted to make a claim against info@amdsolicitors.com or call 0117 962 1205. an estate, where they feel that the Will has not For advice on claims under the Inheritance Act made reasonable provision for them. One contact Alison Dukes on category is children of the deceased, and another alisondukes@amdsolicitors.com or call 0117 962 is those who have been ‘treated as’ a child of the 1205. marriage. Whether an adult child can make a claim for a share of their step-parent’s estate will You can also call into one of our four Bristol depend upon their age at the time of the second offices: marriage. If the relationship began after that child had left home, it will not be possible for a 100 Henleaze Road, Henleaze BS9 4JZ claim to be made. The child is therefore 15 The Mall, Clifton BS8 4DS

139A Whiteladies Road, Clifton BS8 2PL 2 Station Road, Shirehampton BS11 9TT

www.amdsolicitors.com

What’s On & Community News and advice. And of course we work closely with the Staff of the Westbury-on-Trym practice. For information please contact Zina Wilson on tel.nr 9078744 or by e-mail on Bernzina@blueyonder.co.uk , or ask the Westbury Practice Reception or your local GP on tel. 9623406. Do you love Weddings? Westbury-on-Trym Village hall is a very popular wedding venue and has another busy wedding schedule set for 2016. We're looking for more volunteers to help these events run smoothly. If you're interested, please contact Debbie Furlong on 07791 882127. Volunteers needed to support carers. Could you please help us to develop and increase our support to carers, people who are looking after an unwell, disabled or elderly family member or friend? If you are outgoing and could offer two mornings a month to greet and give info to carers when they visit their GP Practice, or 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 hear from you. Full training and support provided. Please contact Mike Hatch, Carers Support Centre volunteer on 07503 577830 or e-mail gp_volunteers@outlook.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 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 Trinity Henleaze Ladies Guild meet fortnightly on Monday evenings at 7.30pm in the Leonard -

Hall Waterford Road. Good varied programme of speakers followed by tea and coffee. All are welcome. For further information contact Jenny on 9620108 Bristol Brunel Lions Club. We have our business meeting at Shirehampton Golf Club on the first Tuesday of every month at 7 for 7.30. On the 3rd Tuesday of each month we have a social gathering normally with food. We raise money for charity both locally and beyond through a variety of activities - our Frogs game, our new Racing Pigs game, our carol float at Christmas, quizzes and auctions for example. Lots of fun and fellowship raising money for very good causes. For more details see Bristol Brunel Lions Club on line or contact our Club Secretary Bill O’Neill at lion.bill@virginmedia.com. Westbury Park WI has changed its meeting day to the First Wednesday in the month. In February we have Mark Fox-Powell coming to talk on Astro Biology and “Life on Mars”. 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 at Westmoreland Hall, Westmoreland Road, Redland from 7.30pm. The Bristol and District branch of Parkinson's UK meet every first Saturday of the month at St Monica Trust, Cote Lane, BS9 3UN from 10am 12 noon. Carers, relatives, spouses, and people with Parkinson's - all are welcome for a social and informative get-together, with speakers from a variety of backgrounds with many diverse interests. Please join us. We also meet at The Eastfield Inn, Henleaze, BS9 4NQ every second Friday in the month for an informal coffee morning from 11am. We are a friendly and supportive bunch, exchanging tactics, information and social banter! On the first Tuesday of the month the North Bristol Alzheimer Café opens at St Monica Trust, Oatley House Atrium restaurant, Westburyon-Trym, Bristol, BS9 3TN from 3.30pm – 5.30pm. The purpose of the café is to provide a relaxed and safe space in which issues surrounding dementia can be aired in a friendly and informal environment. Our café is staffed by trained, caring and experienced volunteers and you will find a very relaxed and friendly atmosphere. Every week refreshments are served and most weeks live music -

What’s On & Community News is played. There is no charge to attend, free on-site parking is usually available and the number 1 bus stops right outside the main gate. For further info or to register your attendance, please contact Jacqui Ramus (Dementia Lead for St Monica Trust) on 07854 185093 or email jacqui.ramus@stmonicatrust.org.uk Bristol Grandparents Support Group. Founded in 2007 BGSG gives support to grandparents who are estranged from their grandchildren due to family breakdown. Family breakdown can be as a result of separation/divorce, alcohol/drug dependency, domestic violence within the home, bereavement or family feud. We give support over the phone, via email, Skype and at our regular meetings held at 9,Park Grove, Bristol. BS6 7XB. Tel 07773 258270 more information or visit www.bgsg.co.uk

St Peter's Ladies Guild meets at 2.15 on the third Wednesday of the month at St Peter's Church Hall, The Drive, Henleaze. Varied programme. All welcome. Further details from Wilma on 9628895. Laugh, Live and Learn with Bristol U3A. We have lots on offer for those who would like to make new friends with similar interests. If you have retired from full-time work, and want to take part in enjoyable learning with friendship and fun, we have a wide range of groups with over 100 different activities, including art, computing, languages, music, walking, and science. Come to one of our social groups - either at the Eastfield Inn, Henleaze, 10.30am on the second Thursday and third Monday in every month, phone Barbara 0117 9629331. Or at Browns Restaurant, by the Museum, at 10.15am on the third Wednesday and fourth Thursday in every month, phone Jenny 0117 9043697. Please visit our website: www.bristolu3a.org.uk. Don't let life pass you by make friends, learn new skills and have fun with Bristol U3A! Stoke Bishop Townswomen's Guild will meet next in the Hulbert Room, St Mary Magdalene Church, Mariner's Drive, Stoke Bishop (accessed via the path next to the steps to the main hall in Mariner's Drive) on Thursday 14th January 2016, -

when we look forward to seeing old members and visitors to greet the New Year. The Friendly Club meets every Thursday from 2 to 4pm (except August and Christmas ) in the Methodist Church Hall, Westbury on Trym. We are a lively group of Senior Citizens who meet to chat , play Scrabble and card games. Regular trips out and entertainments are arranged plus we have delicious tea and biscuits for only £1 ! Do come and make some new friends. Transport can be arranged if needed. Contact 0117 950 8644 for more details. Simply Social is a non-profit making social club. New members always welcome. Our weekly club nights start at 8.30pm every Thursday. We have a varied programme of events ranging from meals out and walks to gliding and badminton. For further info please contact our New Members Secretary Sue on 07757780201 or visit www.bbivc.org.uk.

Knit and Natter. We invite you to "knit and natter" every Thursday between 10am and 12 at the Methodist Church in Westbury on Trym. It is a sociable and informal time when you can chat while pursuing your choice of crafts. If you prefer we can provide patterns for knitting for charity. Tea and coffee will be available. Men at St. Peters (MASP) is a group which meets Saturday mornings at St Peter’s Hall, Henleaze. The meetings start at 8.30am with a full English breakfast. This is then followed by entertaining and interesting talks by a guest speaker. New members are always welcome. In conjunction we also provide well directed “Keep Fit” sessions for men every Tuesday morning. Further information may be obtained from Keith Bonham tel 968 4972. Westbury on Trym Women’s Institute meets on the 3rd Monday of the month in the WoT Methodist Church Hall, next to the car park, at 2.00pm. We have a programme of varied speakers, outings, discussions etc. New members and visitors always welcome. For more information please contact: Sue Murphy – Tel: 950 2826. Do join us for Parish lunch at St Mary’s Church Stoke Bishop, every Thursday from 12.15. 3 course -

What’s On & Community News buffet lunch. Civil Service Retirement Fellowship. The Westbury-on-Trym group welcomes all retired Civil Servants and their spouses to their meetings held on the first Thursday of the month at Studland Court, Henleaze Road at 2.00pm, Those people without a civil service background are welcome to join our group as Friends of the Fellowship. For more info phone Beryl Webb on 01454 614 451. Westbury-on-Trym Probus Club provide a meeting point for retired and semi-retired professional business men, to promote social well being through friendship, companionship & discussion. The club meets on the third Thursday of every month at BAWA, Southmead Road, from 12 midday. If you are interested in joining contact the secretary on 968 4270 or email graham.horne5@btinternet.com. Rotary Club of Bristol – we meet at the Bristol Hotel, Prince Street, Bristol BS1 4QF at 7.00pm for 7.30 pm on the 1st, 3rd and 5th Mondays and at 12.30pm for 1.00 pm on the 2nd and 4th Mondays. Meetings start with a meal and are followed by a speaker. New members are very welcome – see www.bristolrotary.org or contact our Club Secretary Martina Peattie at mpeattie@btopenworld.com for more details. Calling all Carers. Would you like the opportunity to share your experiences, relax and make new friends? Then come and join the Henleaze Carers’ Group. We meet on the second and fourth Thursday morning of each month, 10am to 12, in Bradbury Hall, Waterford Road, Henleaze. For more information please call Mrs M Rudston 942 6095. Instep Club for Widows and Widowers. Weds evenings 8.00 pm-10.00 pm at Stoke Bishop Village Hall, Stoke Hill. Dancing - Ballroom and Sequence (If you haven’t danced for a long time, don’t worry, we will help you learn). Social activities Annual membership £8. Members: £2 per session. Visitors welcome: £3 per session. Come in to see us or telephone Donna on 01275 -

832676 or Wilma on 9628895 for further information. The Fielder Club is an association for local women - though friends and family are welcome at all events. Membership is £5 p.a. to cover delivery of quarterly programmes of events such as lunches, theatre, visits, talks and walks. Weekly/monthly sub-clubs of badminton, book group, bridge, discussions, Scrabble, skittles and whist plus coffee. Thursday mornings at Coffee#1 in WoT and twice-monthly pub lunches. Details from Gloria on 0117 239 3376 or Anne on 0117 907 7425. Henleaze Townswomen's Guild meet on the first Wednesday of the month (except Aug) at St Peter's Church Hall, The Drive, Henleaze. Lady visitors are always most welcome to attend. Further details can be obtained by ringing Shirley Phillips on 0117 962 2243. Soroptomists International Bristol are part of a global organisation founded in Bristol ninety years ago for women from a wide range of professional and business backgrounds who have joined together to give Service, Friendship and have Fun. We meet on the second and fourth Mondays of the month at Long Ashton Golf Club where we enjoy a two course meal with a speaker. As a member of Soroptomists International we have the opportunity to form friendships, not only in our own club but other countrywide clubs and throughout the world. Our charitable projects enable us to participate in all manner of fund raising events. So if you are interested in joining our club and helping women and girls throughout a global network of members please contact our membership officer on 0117 9739894 or email gillbea@aol.com for more details. Henleaze (Morning) Townswomen's Guild. This is a recently formed Guild and we meet from 10.00am – 12.00 noon on the third Thursday of every month at The Eastfield Inn, Henleaze Road. New members and visitors are most welcome. Further information can be obtained by ringing Elaine Anderson on 907 5279. Clifton Rotary Club welcomes new members. All we ask is that people give their time, are interested in making new friends, building business contacts -

Have you ever wondered…

tax take goes on this, but it includes a whole range of expenditure including in-work as well as out-of -work benefits, child benefit and winter fuel …where our taxes are spent? allowance. Moving on, in descending order, we The general election in 2015 brought the question have Health (19%/£2,300), Education (13%/ £1,600), and State Pensions (a marginally lower of taxes and government expenditure into sharp focus. But as is often the case when so much is at cost than Education). Then we have a big drop down to £836 (about 7%) but it is another stake, discussion on the subject was invariably politically charged one: national debt interest. affected by ‘spin’ of one political persuasion or another. So what about a straight look at the The Defence and Criminal Justice budgets both numbers? account for about 5% of your taxes and we are left with a long-tail of relatively small expenditure In the last couple of years, such expenditure on the rest which include Transport, Business, statements have started being rolled out to tax payers. You may have received one yourself, but Culture, the Environment, Overseas Aid and at the very end, our contribution to the EU Budget. some won’t have. Various media channels have published samples and we will conduct a quick run-down of one of these for someone with an income of £45,000. The sample tax take for this person is just shy of £12,000. Top of the list is Welfare – rather an allencompassing term and certainly one that is politically charged! About £3,000 or 25% of the

There you have it: a rough guide to how your Income Tax and National Insurance is spent. Maybe it will raise more questions for you than answers, but at least it’s an interesting starting point to seeing where your money goes. Huw Bendon www.onpointcopywriting.co.uk

What’s On & Community News and using their skills to help others. We meet Wednesday lunchtimes at Redland Lawn Tennis and Squash Club. FFI please visit www.cliftonrotary.org or email secretary@cliftonrotary.org Interest Groups

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. Contact Margaret Dearnaley on 07986 555817 (evenings and weekends only) or email bristolhumanists@gmail.com for more information.

The Bristol & Gloucestershire Archaeological Society: On Monday 29th February at 7.45 p.m. in the Apostle Room in the basement of Clifton Cathedral, Pembroke Road, Clifton, Roger Leech, Visiting Professor of Archaeology, University of Southampton, will give a talk on "Bristol Town Houses - some thoughts post-publication" Having completed his lengthy study of the town house in medieval and early modern Bristol, Roger Leech The Bristol Astronomical Society host a series of will reflect on future directions for research. In talks each week and we regularly get experts to talk Bristol future archaeological opportunities might about historical and topical aspects of astronomy, ensure the better preservation of the medieval and as well running hands-on demonstrations and early modern structural remains that so often activities. We also run free Saturday observing reflect more on the lives of the past urban elite, but sessions at our Observatory in Failand, weather might also add to our knowledge of the lives of the permitting, and often stage "Star Parties" around poor. More widely the social distinctions Bristol and at Tyntesfield. All details are on our embedded in the houses and vocabulary of late website: www.bristolastrosoc.org.uk. All welcome, medieval Bristol will be seen to have a significance held at Bristol Photographic Society, Montpelier, across England and beyond. BS6 5EE. The Bristol Branch of the ESU meets in the An Introduction to Prehistoric Objects. 20th Apostle Room of Clifton Cathedral at 7.15 for 7.45 Feb 2016, 10.30 am - 4.00 pm at Bristol Museum talk which ends by 9 pm. There is ample parking, & Art Gallery. £35/£30, suitable for 16+. Find out and entrance is £5. The aim of the English how artefacts from the earliest stone tools to Iron Speaking Union is to encourage friendship and Age coins were made, used and discovered with global understanding through English. On this introduction to prehistoric objects. Join Thursday 11th February Professor Raymondo museum curators and explore highlights from Ascione, Director of the Bristol Cardiac Centre, Bristol’s amazing Prehistoric Collections. This is a will be talking on “Research for Patient Benefit in fantastic opportunity to handle real archaeological Cardiac Surgery” while on Tuesday 15th March objects and study objects not usually on display. Alvin Hansen, a retired Queen’s messenger, will be To book your place: Visit our website talking on “Being a Queen’s Messenger” www.bristolmuseums.org.uk/bristol-museum-andart-gallery/whats-on/an-introduction-toPhilosophy Discussion Group. We are a friendly prehistoric-objects/ and select the course you and welcoming group who enjoy taking a turn to would like to book, or call the Bristol Museum & bring topic to share. We meet at 7 – 9pm every Art Gallery Shop between 10.30am – 4.30pm, Tel: fourth Thursday evening of the month at Eastfield 0117 922 3650. Inn, Henleaze, Bristol BS9 4NQ, and 10 - 12 noon every second Friday morning of the month, also at The Bristol Humanists is a local group for those Eastfield Inn, Henleaze. If you would like to be who make sense of the world using reason & involved please contact Lorna Tarr on 0770 245 shared human values; who seek to live ethical lives 3827. Henbury Art Club are looking for new members for our Thursday morning club, we meet at10am till noon in Southmead Library, we are a very friendly mixed ability group, and have our annual show in the Henbury Village Hall every May Day. Please contact Gill Dix by email. gill@dix.org.uk for more details.

What’s On & Community News The National Trust Bristol Centre programme of Winter talks continues on Saturday 20th February at 2.15pm with Gina Merrett-Smith who will be presenting “Kew’s Victorian Gem - the intrepid Marianne North”, a remarkable botanical painter. A charge of £3 is made to members and visitors. Visit www.ntbristolcentre.btck.co.uk or call 0117 9658014 for more details. Bristol Photographic Society is now based at Montpelier Central (opposite Montpelier Station) The Society caters for all levels of photographer and meets every Wednesday evening at 7.30 throughout the year when it has a full and varied programme of courses, visiting speakers and inhouse competitions. You can find out more about the Society by visiting its website at www.bristolphoto.org.uk or emailing membership@bristolphoto.org.uk Local winemaking and social club are looking for new members to join us. Meeting the second Wednesday of every month at the Common Room, Studland Court elderly peoples residence on Henleaze Road, from 8pm to 10pm. Small friendly group now in our 37th year, with a varied programme of wine making, tastings and social events. For further information please contact the club secretary Liz Johnson on 0117 950 8370.

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. Twyford Art Club. We are a small group of artists of mixed ability, we meet at the public hall, Station Road, Shirehampton, 10am to 12am Mondays and Wednesdays, chose your day or days. New members warmly welcomed, help and advice given. For more information visit www.shirepubhall.org.uk then click hall users. Contact John Case Tel: 01179507916, or email : jacase@blueyonder.co.uk Social Bridge for Improvers Stoke Bishop Village Hall Thursday afternoon 2 - 4 p.m. Further -

details can be found at www.BridgeTuition.co.uk.

Stoke Lodge History and Archaeology Group meet on the second Thursday of every month at the Friends Meeting House in Hampton Road, Redland, BS6 6JE at 7.30. We host a rich diversity of lectures. New members are always made very welcome. For further details please contact Annette Martin on 0117 979 3209 North West Bristol Camera Club are an enthusiastic group of amateur photographers who meet each Wednesday at 7:45pm at Westbury Fields. New members of any level of ability are most welcome. For details contact Pete on 07870 589555. Excel Bridge Club meets in Stoke Bishop Village Hall on Stoke Hill every Monday, beginning promptly at 7.15pm. There is a very cheerful & relaxed atmosphere and as we just play 24 boards we are always finished by 10.15pm. For more info ring Ralph Smith on 01275 840006. Stoke Bishop & Sneyd Park Local History Group welcomes all to a series of talks at the Stoke Bishop Village Hall, 42 Stoke Hill, BS9 1EX. Talks start at 7.30pm and anyone interested in local history is welcome. Membership is just £6 p/a and visitors pay just £2 a meeting. Our next talk is on Friday 11th March when Helen Thomas presents “Bedminster Tobacco Women”, the stories of the people who worked in the tobacco factories of south Bristol. For more details please visit www.stokebishop.org.uk/ local_history_group, call 0117 9686010 or email sblocalhistory@gmail.com. Please do also contact us if you are clearing out documents and pictures of Stoke Bishop! Ray Bridge Club meet every Tuesday 6.30pm to 9pm at the Sea Mills Methodist Church, Shirehampton Road (new venue) for social rubber bridge. New members welcome. Please ring 942 7760 or 968 2652 for further details. West of England Bridge Club meets for duplicate bridge on Monday, Wednesday and Friday at Golden Hill Sports Club, Wimbledon Road, Henleaze from 7.30pm - 10.30pm. New members and visitors welcome. £4 per evening for members, £5 for non-members, special rates for -

views expressed by contributors or advertisers in The Bristol Nine 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 juniors/unemployed. Licensed bar. For further aims or its methods. Bristol Community Magazines Ltd details please contact Alan Williams on 07538 cannot be held responsible for information disclosed by 509670 or visit www.woebc.co.uk. advertisers, all of which are accepted in good faith. Reasonable Social Bridge, every Tuesday at 7.30 p.m. at Stoke efforts are made to ensure the accuracy of the information Bishop Village Hall. New members welcome. Tel contained in this magazine but no liability can be accepted for any loss or inconvenience caused as a result of inclusion, error Chris on 968 5640. or omission. All content is the copyright of Bristol Community Westbury Art Club meet every Thursday evening Magazines Ltd and may not be reproduced without the prior written consent of Bristol Community Magazines. from 7pm to 9pm at The Greenway Centre, Doncaster Rd, Southmead. We are a mixed ability Get In Touch group of artists For more details visit www.westburyartclub.org.uk, e-mail us at westburyart@blueyonder.co.uk or phone our club ▪ 8 Sandyleaze, Westbury on Trym, secretary on Bristol 962 9799. BS9 3PY

What’s On & Community News

Exhibitions, Meetings, Fairs & Markets Get in the creative zone and come to a Mosaic Workshop on Saturday, February 27th - 10am to 3pm - at my studio in Coombe Dingle. No experience needed - just come and make a lovely mosaic! For more details, visit my website www.felicityballmosaics.com - or phone me on 07944 635487 Jumble Sale, Saturday February 27th at 10am to be held at Westbury-on-Trym Methodist Church hall, Westbury Hill. Proceeds to charity. Free Admission.

Table Top Sale - Saturday 19 March 10.00 - 12.30 Westbury on Trym Methodist Church Hall. Tables £10.00 - please contact Kate on 0117 4010646 for reservation. Entry 50p. All proceeds going to Children's Hospice South West. Country Market. Every Friday morning from 10.30 to 11.30 in Westbury on Trym Methodist Church Hall. Homemade cakes, arts, crafts, plants, vegetables, jams and chutneys. Refreshments are also available in a relaxed and friendly environment. For more details contact Sue Sills on 962 8306. The Bristol Nine is published by Bristol Community Magazines Ltd (Co. No. 08448649, registered at 8 Sandyleaze, Westbury on Trym, Bristol, BS9 3PY). The -

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andy@bcmagazines.co.uk 0117 259 1964 (New Number) 07845 986650 @BS9Andy

Deadline for contributions for the March issue - 15th February 2016 Quiz Answers from page 16

1. 1978, 1958, 2002; 2. The Fighting Temeraire by J.M.W. Turner, and The Son of Man by Rene Magritte; 3. Liberia, Sierra Leone and Guinea; 4. 4th century, 1st century, 15th century; 5. Peter Glaze and Don Maclean; 6. Belarus; 7. Brazil, China, USA; 8. rabbits; 9. Herman Melville, John Milton, Helen Fielding; 10. Lady Gaga, Vic Reeves, John Wayne; 11. Calm, and Near Gale; 12. (clockwise from top left) Comma, Painted Lady, Brimstone, Red Admiral; 13. Howard Carter and the 5th Earl of Carnarvon; 14. a) Malaysia and Indonesia (Sumatra), b) Panama both sides, and c) USA (Alaska) and Russia; 15. Laura Palmer in Twin Peaks; 16. Ljubljana in Slovenia; 17. Bridge Over Troubled Water (Simon & Garfunkel 1970), Super Trouper (Abba 1980), But Seriously (Phil Collins 1990), 1 (The Beatles 2000) and Progress (Take That 2010); 18. Cavaliers (Royalists) v Roundheads (Parliamentarians) in the English Civil War; US Marines v Japanese Imperial Army in the Second World War; the Lakota Sioux, Northern Cheyenne and Arapaho tribes v the US Cavalry in the Great Sioux War; and the Galactic Empire v the Rebel Alliance in Star Wars. -

Useful Information

We have just exchanged on the purchase of our next home and Ben couldn't have been more helpful. All queries and requests for viewings were dealt with promptly and politely and the whole process was as speedy as it could be. Ben went the extra mile to make it all happen and we would therefore recommend Maggs and Allen to any other North Bristol house hunters. From the buyer - Metford Road

Chris supported us in both buying a property and selling another. He was very prompt at putting our house in the market advertising with brilliant photographs and informative details. Maggs and Allen were very good at keeping in touch with us, answering any questions and chasing solicitors and other parties if necessary. We sadly lost the first property we were buying due to unforeseen circumstances of the vendor. Chris quickly arranged for us to view another property knowing exactly what we were looking for. We are now very happy in our new home and would highly recommend Maggs and Allen estate agent. From the buyer - Wellington Hill West I am very happy with the service I received from everyone I dealt with at Maggs and Allen during the process of selling my house. All the Staff I dealt with were very helpful and dealt with everything in a very professional manner. James arranged an Open Day and subsequent viewings and this resulted in a very quick suitable offer which we accepted. Since then we have dealt mostly with Lewis, who guided us through all the process very efficiently and in a very friendly manner and was most helpful throughout the whole stressful process and we would most certainly recommend Maggs and Allen to anyone wishing to sell their house. We would like to thank everyone at Maggs and Allen for guiding us through the process and making it as smooth as possible. From the vendor - Grove Avenue

Maggs & Allen were very professional in every way. A big thanks to James Goodchild for his negotiating skills in the sale of my mothers bungalow

From the seller - Knights Close

Just a small selection of the letters & testimonials we have received from sellers and buyers. If you are thinking of selling or would like advice please contact us: 0117 949 9000 agency@maggsandallen.co.uk