The Bristol Nine Magazine - January 2021

THE BRISTOL NINE MAGAZINE JANUARY 2021 - ISSUE 172 12,500 COPIES DELIVERED FREE EACH MONTH ACROSS STOKE BISHOP, HENLEAZE, SEA MILLS, COOMBE DINGLE, SNEYD PARK & WESTBURY ON TRYM

In this issue - desert island albums (p44), the history of wassailing (p57), problems facing small makers and crafters (p75), prize wordsearch (p54), the big quiz (p26) plus all the usual bits and bobs .....

You may be concerned that increasingly, solicitors’ practices are becoming ‘law firms’ with a solicitor meeting the client, taking on a matter and then supervising paralegals and legal executives to carry out the work. Corfield Solicitors does not operate in this way; we simply offer three fully qualified solicitors, personally dealing with your matter from start to finish.

Deciding to leave his city centre firm, Jonathan Corfield established his own practice in Sneyd Park in 2009 where he and his wife have lived for many years and raised their family. Charles Corfield joined the practice later that year after graduating from Bristol University with a Masters in Law and both were later joined by Stuart Corfield when he also qualified as a solicitor.

Our fees are set in order to make a living rather than a fortune. No ‘extra costs’ are added for home visits.

No additional ‘out of hours’ charges are made.

Fixed Fee Conveyancing House sale or purchase Flat sale or purchase

£1,300 £1,300

Our fixed fees for conveyancing do not apply to new build or off plan purchases, or properties priced in excess of £900,000.

Wills

Single Will Joint (Mirror) Wills

£250 £375

Probate

Charged at usual hourly rate with no additional percentage of the value of the estate added.

No extra charge for home visits or evening appointments 2

Lasting Powers of Attorney

One type of Both types of LPA LPA Individual £400 £600 Couple £600 £900

Hourly Rate

For work carried out on a timed basis, our hourly rate for all three solicitors is £225. All prices exclusive of VAT.

Residential Conveyancing & Property Issues • • • • •

Purchase & Sale Freehold & Leasehold Remortgage Retirement property purchase Probate property sale

Commercial Property

• Purchase, Sale & Lease • Renewal, variation or surrender of leases • Rent Deposit Deeds & Rent Reviews • Licences to Assign • Local Authority planning agreements • Preparation of auction documentation • Options, conditional sales and pre-emption

Services for the Elderly and Carers

• Home visiting • Nursing home & hospital visiting • Residential, Nursing care provision & funding issues • Retirement property purchase • Wills & Powers of Attorney

Wills Probate and Trusts • • • •

Joint & Single Wills Codicils & updates Provision of Executor services Immediate assistance when a loved one has died • Probate & Administration • Trust administration assistance • Declaration of Trust

Powers of Attorney

• Lasting Powers of Attorney • Registration of Enduring Powers of Attorney • General Powers of Attorney • Appointment of a Court of Protection deputy

Telephone:

0117 968 8890 Office: 2 The Avenue, Sneyd Park, Bristol, BS9 1PA

Email: info@corfieldsolicitors.com

Or visit our website: www.corfieldsolicitors.com

Honest, down to earth fixed fees and hourly rate 3

THE EDITOR’S SMALL PIECE

CAP

Hello there, and welcome to the first magazine of the new year. I hope this finds you in good spirits after as enjoyable a Christmas break as was possible under the circumstances. I guess most, if not all, of us will be going into 2021 in the hope that it can’t be worse than the year just gone, and heaven knows we’d like that hope to turn into reality. If we keep those fingers crossed, remain as optimistic as possible and look back at the positives that came from 2020 (I know, that’s not easy right now) then maybe 2021 will not be so bad overall. We are generally a pretty resilient, stoical, adaptable, supportive and creative bunch - all qualities which helped us get to where we are now - and I am sure that with continued commitment and spirit there will soon be brightness on the horizon.

Corinne Hazelby And Pam Thomas Traditional & Modern Upholstery Service, Restoration & Repairs

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TOP NOTCH

The Gentleman Painter & Decorator of Distinction Colin Hazelby City & Guilds Certificate

Of course before all that we have to get through this winter, but already (on 16th December) I’ve seen crocus raising their heads and redwings massing in the berry-bearing trees - both sights I’d not normally expect to see before the Christmas decs come down. Maybe the green shoots we so crave - literally and figuratively - are closer than we think.

For a friendly, free quotation & colour co-ordination advice call 01275 371 729 07770 944 423

YOUR HOME IN SAFE HANDS

Semi-Retired Builder

living & working in BS9, available for winter services etc.

• Fencing • Gates • Hand Rails • Steps • Sheds Re-Felted No Job Too Small Materials at Cost

I hope you enjoy the magazine - a bit of a rush job before Christmas, and a bit thin on content, so I promise more in the February volume. Until then may your resolutions and ambitions for 2021 be achievable and the start to the new year be as healthy and upbeat as possible.

Tel. Declan 07836 535 535

Cheers, Andy

Do Get In Touch andy@bcmagazines.co.uk 0117 259 1964 / 07845 986650 8 Sandyleaze, WoT, BS9 3PY

Embracing Pilates PILATES CLASSES on ZOOM every Tuesday, Thursday and Friday ‐ 9:30am to 10.25am; o Over 60’s classes Wednesday ‐ 10.30am to 11.25am.

Block of 6 classes only £24 ‐ or £5 per class!

Please book via www.embracingpilates.co.uk o

Print Deadline for the February issue All contributions, listings and advertising must be confirmed by 18th January

Experienced & fully qualified Pilates instructor, Denise Dobbins, can be contacted for more info either via <info@embracingpilates.co.uk> or by tel. 0117 903 0331

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Custom Made Curtains & Roman Blinds Handcrafted in our Bristol Workshop

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Thermal lining on all curtain orders placed in January 2021!

Visit us in our showroom at: 119 Coldharbour Road BS6 7SD 0117 924 8383 www.sofamagic.co.uk

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Every item of furniture is carefully crafted by our master craftsmen in our Bristol workshop, and as they are made-to-order, each piece is uniquely yours.

Investing in girls who act out, play up and make some noise!

to them take LAMDA (London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art) qualifications. The investment amounts to approximately £600 per pupil and is in addition to the timetabled music and drama lessons for the whole class.

As we put 2020 behind us and look towards the future, Redmaids’ High Junior School is placing a renewed emphasis on the arts – an area that has been a true casualty of the pandemic.

This offer will run until the end of the 202122 academic year, but the school guarantees that anyone who joins their Year 3 waiting list by 31 August 2021 – even if their daughter is currently in infant or nursery school – will qualify for these lessons when their daughter starts at the school.

Headteacher of the school, Lisa Brown said, “Careers in the arts are essential to our country’s economy, not to mention our collective wellbeing, sense of community and general enjoyment of life. At Redmaids’ High Junior School, we feel passionately that the future of music and theatre needs to be preserved and invested in, rather than side-lined and ignored.

As well as encouraging a love of performing arts, there is also an academic benefit. Studies have found that music students often outperform their peers in English, maths and science, and engagement with theatre can boost academic performance, social bonding, emotional and cognitive skills in children.* “Our aim is to inspire a generation of children who have a discerning appreciation of music and performance, as well as enhancing their general development. Long gone are the days when children should be seen and not heard.

We want our pupils to act out, play up and make some noise!”

“Our feeling is so strong that we are making a significant financial investment,” continues Mrs Brown. “Any Year 3 pupil joining the school from September 2021 will have one-toone music or drama lessons with a specialist teacher, completely free of charge for a year.”

*www.discovermagazine.com/mind/studentswho-take-music-classes-also-do-bettera c a d e m i c a l l y - s t u d y - f i n d s h t t p s : // w w w. psychologytoday.com/gb/blog/the-athletesway/201906/music-participation-is-linkedteens-academic-achievement

With this amazing offer, girls can choose between singing lessons or an instrument of their choice. Alternatively, they can opt for weekly speech and drama lessons, building confidence and vocabulary, that could lead

T&Cs apply – please visit www.redmaidshigh. co.uk for details.

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Look after your home - after all, it is your biggest asset Whether you need to maintain things - or are looking to upgrade

GARCIA BUILDING SERVICES

will bring you peace of mind and help you add value to your property Upgrading Maintaining Open Extensions Boiler Servicing for Gas Loft Conversions Servicing & Building Repairs Breakdowns Bathrooms & Kitchens Emergency Call-Outs supplied & fitted From Foundations to Roofs Working from home? Considered converting your garage into an office? Contact us now for a free appraisal.

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Happy New Year from the Crystal Clear Bristol Team

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USEFUL INFORMATION Helplines and Emergency Services Gas Emergencies 0800 111 999 Electricity Emergencies 0800 365 900 Water Emergencies 0845 702 3797 Avon & Somerset Police Non-Emergencies 101 (new no.)

Crimestoppers 0800 555 111 Southmead Hospital 0117 950 5050 BRI / Children’s Hospital 0117 923 0000 NHS non-emergency 111 Council Dog Warden 0117 922 2500 Bristol Blood Donation 0117 988 2040 The Samaritans 08457 90 90 90 Alcoholics Anonymous 08457 69 75 55 ChildLine 0800 11 11 National Rail Enquiries 08457 48 49 50 Telephone Pref Service 0845 070 0707 Mailing Preference Service 0845 703 4599 WE Care Home Improvements 0300 323 0700

Stapleton Road and Lawrence Hill) and out to Severn Beach via Shirehampton and Avonmouth.

Cheap, fun and reliable.

Due to the current Covid-19 situation train timetables may be liable to change. Please check www.gwr.com for comprehensive up to date advice or call 03457 000 125 (09:00-17:00, 7 days a week) - or indeed download the National Rail or GWR apps.

Local Churches

Late Post - there is a late post box at the main Post Office sorting depot on the A38 at Filton. Currently the late post is at 7pm.

St Mary Magdalene, Stoke Bishop www.stmarysb.org.uk 0117 968 7449 WoT Methodist Church www.westburyontrymmethodistchurch .org.uk 0117 962 2930 WoT Baptist Church, Reedley Rd, www.westburybaptist.org.uk 0117 962 9990 WoT Holy Trinity Parish Church, www.westbury-parish-church.org.uk 0117 950 8644 Sacred Heart Catholic Church, WoT www.sacredheartchurch.co.uk 0117 962 0676 St Peter’s Church, Henleaze www.stpetershenleaze.org 0117 962 4524 Highgrove Church, Sea Mills www.highgrove.church 07966 028 046 Trinity URC, Henleaze www.trinityhenleazeurc.org.uk 0117 962 9713 The Community Church, WoT www.the-community-church.net 0117 946 6807 St Edyth’s Church, Sea Mills www.stedyths.org.uk, 0117 968 6965

Waste & Recycling

The Silver Line

Get your waste & recycling collection dates for 2021. Be ahead of the game and download your new waste and recycling collection calendar for 2021. If you are planning to visit the Recycling Centre at Avonmouth do check the Bristol Waste website - www.bristolwastecompany.co.uk - first as they are currently running alternate access days depending on your car registration.

The Silver Line is the only free confidential helpline providing information, friendship and advice to older people - open 24 hours a day, 365 days of the year. Call anytime on 0800 470 80 90.

Postal Services (please check times in advance if possible as opening hours may vary) Westbury on Trym Post (now on Canford Lane) Mon-Fri 9am - 2pm, Sat 9am - 12.30pm Henleaze Post Office Mon 8.30am - 6pm, Tues to Sat 8.30am - 6pm Sea Mills Post Office 9am - 5.30pm Mon to Fri, 9am to 12.30pm Sat Stoke Bishop Post Office (in Spar) 7.00am to 8.00pm Mon to Sat, 7.00am to 5.00pm Sun

Local Trains Great Western Trains run from Sea Mills station along the scenic Severn Beach line, in to Temple Meads (via Clifton Down, Redland, Montpelier,

Bristol City Council The Council website offers residents information about BCC services including council tax, bins & recycling, schools, leisure, business, streets and parking. Visit www.bristol.gov.uk or contact the General Enquiries switchboard on 0117 922 2000.

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INTERIOR AND EXTERIOR

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I provide a wide range of high quality interior and exterior painting and decorating services in the Bristol area.

Based in Henleaze, and available for all sizes of job from a single room or home-off ice conversion to a complete house makeover, with fixed price estimates in advance.

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Senior Snippets

How to boost a seniors self esteem

Welcome to the latest edition of Senior Snippets: the monthly advisory column with the older members of our community in mind, brought to you by John Moore, Director of Home Instead Senior Care in North Bristol.

Many seniors lose their self-esteem as they get older. Significant life changes can rock their feelings of control and confidence. Boosting the self-esteem of your loved ones can lead to them living longer, safely in their own familiar surroundings and an overall greater feeling of happiness and well-being.

Social connections - No matter your age, we all want to have strong friendships and close family. Studies show that seniors who are surrounded by supportive family and friends have higher self-esteem.

Squashing negative stereotypes - Stay positive when you are around your loved one. Let them know you value their contributions and that you respect them. If they are self-conscious of their limitations, reassure them that their hearing loss or lack of stamina is nothing to be ashamed of. We all have our own limitations in life.

Strength and balance - If your loved one is steady on their feet and less likely to fall, they will be able to feel more confident caring for themself and getting around. Encourage gentle exercise such as chair yoga or offer to walk regularly with them to keep up their strength.

Ask for their advice - Your parent is a fountain of wisdom, experience, and advice. Ask them for their input or to help you work through a problem.

Being helpful and having a sense of purpose can really boost confidence.

Make their home accessible - Many times, a dip in self-esteem is the direct result of the loss of independence. Be proactive by installing handrails in the tub, checking that rugs don’t slip, keep frequently used items within easy reach, and make sure pathways in the house are clear for easy walking. Give them the tools they need to live safely in their home.

If you would like to speak to someone at Home Instead, please do get in touch. Telephone 0117 989 8210 or email john.moore@homeinstead.co.uk

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Providing high quality and safe care to support people at home Home care is safe care

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Undertaking domestic tasks including the cleaning & disinfecting of high touch surfaces Shopping for essentials and to be able to pack everything away for you Meal preparation & tidy away Medication support and prompting, as well as picking up medication from local pharmacies

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Companionship and activities to stimulate the mind & body Overseeing home deliveries, tradesmen or other essential visitors

Our professional and DBS checked CAREGivers are required to protect you and themseslves. They are highly experienced and trained in using a combination of social distancing, infection control procedures and wearing PPE as guided by government.

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Assisting with technology, enabling video chats with family & friends Discreet assistive technology to detect changes of routine within the home

For more information please call

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children, families and the wider community.”

In January, Bristol Steiner School welcomes Nicola Forder to her post as Head Teacher of the Redland-based school. The independent day school has a rich history dating back to 1973 and welcomes children from the age of 3 to 11 years. Nicola joins the school following the departure of previous Head Teacher Ruth Glover as she embarks on a new challenge in the charity sector.

New applications are accepted throughout the academic year. To book a personalised, virtual meeting please contact Admissions and Business Development Manager Vishwa Wijedasa: T: 0117 933 9990 E: vishwawijedasa@bristolsteinerschool.org W: www.bristolsteinerschool.org

BRISTOL STEINER SCHOOL

As a child-centred school, pupils benefit from a vibrant, uplifting, Waldorf education that integrates the virtues of academic achievement, emotional intelligence and individuality to benefit the whole-child. Small class sizes promote the wellbeing and selfbelief of each child.

Independent Day School for Boys and Girls

Nicola was the Head of Teaching and Learning at the Exmoor Federation of small primary schools, where she was also seconded for a time as an Acting Head Teacher for a school within the Federation. She is currently completing a Master’s Degree in Leadership and Management in Education and is a trained practitioner in ‘Attachment Aware’ approaches that inform children’s development.

Where education is a journey, not a race

Personalised Tours

Following her appointment, Nicola stated, “This is a thrilling new venture for me, having gained most of my experience working extensively in small school settings. This is where I feel most at home and I enjoy the close partnerships with

Contact Reception to book a personalised tour 0117 933 9990 reception@bristolsteinerschool.org | www.bristolsteinerschool.org

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A WARM WELCOME AWAITS AT FIELD HOUSE NURSING HOME Field House in Horfield offers safe and nurturing care Whilst we are taking care to ensure distancing, residents are still enjoying daily activities, and access to our beautiful gardens. We also have the technology to keep our residents in ‘virtual’ touch with their families.

We also ensure: • Strict Infection Control measures approved by Public Health England are fully implemented

“Field Field House remains a place of happy daily life and excellent nursing care.” care Dee, Nurse Manager

• Care staff wear PPE at all times and we have ensured a high volume of supply • Skilled nurses are on site 24/7 and respiratory equipment is at hand • Safe face-to-face visits where possible

We’d love to hear from you and we’d be very happy to give you a virtual tour of the home...

Give us a call on 0117 969 0990 or visit our website at bristolcarehomes.co.uk 17

GOOD READS - BRUCE FELLOWS’ BOOK RECOMMENDATIONS Guy Roland, who is he? He doesn’t know himself – amnesia. When his private investigator employer retires, Guy is finally free to investigate himself. In Nobel Prize winner Patrick Modiano’s strange and intriguing novel, Missing Person, we travel with Guy through the dark streets and dubious dives of Paris seeking those he once knew, uncovering clues to his past. At a Russian Orthodox church, he meets a man with photographs. There’s a girl, a phone number, a garage, a man who was once the confidant of film actor John Gilbert. It’s all most mysterious and compelling. Where will Guy end up and who is he really?

Under Occupation is a gripping wartime thriller by Alan Furst. It’s Paris ,1942, and in the street a dying man passes Ricard a drawing. It’s something technical.

What should he do with it? A thriller writer, Ricard quickly finds himself part of the Resistance and seeing France up close instead of from the guide books he usually gets local colour from. He teams up with professional spy, Leila, and though constantly just one step ahead of capture, still manages to bring out a new book. A real page turner, Furst’s novel offers a vivid portrait of how those who resisted the Nazis went about it.

When she’s five, something awful happens in Rose’s household that she can’t confront for years. Her beloved sister has disappeared. Rose has no idea what’s happened. Then her brother leaves with no goodbyes. It’s amazing that Rose is as normal a grown up as she is. It’s as if she’s been part of an experiment with dreadful consequences that haunt her until, years later, she realises she must finally examine her past. Karen Joy Fowler reveals that past to us in her clever, amusing, shocking and often moving novel, We Are All Completely Beside Ourselves. It’s a revealing and page-turning read from start to finish.

In PH Newby’s intricate, witty and captivating novel Something to Answer For, winner of the first Booker Prize awarded fifty-one years ago and recently reissued, our rascally hero, Townrow, summoned by the widow of an old friend, returns to Egypt just in time for the Suez Crisis. A ne’er do well, currently living on his wits, Townrow has his sights on the widow’s money. But Nasser seizes the Canal, the British invade and Townrow lurches from disaster to catastrophe with a girl and a corpse in tow. And is that a conscience that Townrow begins to develop? Is he behaving entirely morally? Are the British?

There’ll soon be an avalanche of books by the resigned and the sacked but Fear: Trump in the White House is Bob Woodward’s totally unputdownable assessment of how the President’s first two years went. Frankly, it’s terrifying.

North Korea – Rocket Man; Iran – the nuclear treaty; immigration – the Wall; steel tariffs; South Korea; trade deals with Canada and Mexico: decisions that follow long meetings are made irrelevant by 3 a.m. tweets that leave advisors and Secretaries of State tearing their hair out. It’s actually worse than you might imagine. ‘It’s chaos’, Steve Bannon says. The problem, Trump’s lawyer John Dowd concludes, is, ‘He’s a ******* liar.’

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Ou wil r Op l b en eh M eld orn vir ing tua s lly

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Council Talk - Peter & John Reporting Cllr. Peter Abraham and Cllr. John Goulandris serve you on Bristol City Council for the Stoke Bishop Ward covering Sneyd Park and Sea Mills. If you need their help, just

contact them. John & Peter will be pleased to help.

•

After a challenging 2020, we hope 2021 will be happier, healthier and more prosperous for all readers. Very best wishes.

•

The vaccination programme has started and hopefully the gradual return to normality. Meantime all Council functions/meetings continue to operate virtually and via Zoom. Please contact us with any local concerns.

•

We trust the Mayor has made his new year resolution to come clean on the total cost to council tax payers of the Bristol Energy fiasco. We will continue to press for an answer and will also quiz him on a £300,000 ‘investment’ in a new banking venture.

Your comments, views and questions are welcomed - these are our contact details:• Councillor Peter Abraham • Email: Cllr.peter.abraham@bristol.gov.uk • Councilor John Goulandris • Email: Cllr.john.goulandris@bristol.gov.uk • Phone 0117 922 2227 • City Hall, College Green, Bristol, BS1 5TR 20

December Sale Results

Mary Potter - oil

2.7ct diamond ring

Dylan Lewis - bronze

George II Caddies

Muller Homes Samplers

Campaign Chest

£5,500

£1,500

£7,500

£4,000

£3,800

£1,300

Free COVID-SAFE Drive-through Valuation Days At the Salerooms 11th, 12th & 25th, 26th January 9.30am - 1pm & 2pm - 5pm

Alternatively, email images to info@csrauctions.com for a free valuation Every lot in every sale illustrated and sold with live internet bidding Fine Art Auctioneers & Valuers The Auction Centre, Kenn Road, Clevedon, Bristol, BS21 6TT Tel: 0117 325 6789

www.clevedon-salerooms.com 21

IT ISSUES - RUSSELL ISAAC TV is Getting Smarter

The Benefit of Smart TVs

If you’re looking for a new TV this year you’ll doubtless be thinking most about screen size, picture quality, sound quality, and connectivity.

The advent of Smart TVs, however, has brought another dimension of capability to consider...

The main benefit of a smart TV is seamless access to a large number of channels that offer TV programs, movies, and music without the need to connect other boxes or subscribe to a cable/ satellite service. Also, some smart TVs provide web browsing, gaming, and access to compatible media content stored on your computer. In addition to internet streaming, some smart TVs provide more capabilities, such as Miracast and Screen Sharing, which allow users to view content from compatible smartphones and tablets on a TV screen. Some smart TVs are even able to do the reverse - send content from the TV to a compatible smartphone, allowing the user to view that content on the smartphone, away from the TV. Smart TV’s are not the only way to access this additional media content - devices such as Amazon’s Firestick can be plugged into your existing TV (assuming you have an HDMI input), but a Smart TV does away with these additional devices/cables/configuration issues. Do be aware that, although smart TV platforms provide access to a lot of free channels and services, many (Netflix/AmazonPrime etc) require either a 1 monthly subscription or pay-per-view fee.

What Is a Smart TV anyway?

In a nutshell, a Smart TV incorporates an operating system/platform that allows you to access, manage, and view online and networkbased media content without the need to connect to an additional box - this is becoming increasingly important given the massive rise of TV programming being commissioned and exclusively shown by the new breed of online channels such as Netflix, Amazon Prime and Apple TV. How Smart TVs Work Smart TVs access online content by connecting to the same broadband router and Ethernet or Wi-Fi network that you use to connect your computer to the internet. The smart TV will display an on-screen menu that includes a list of available internet channels provided in the form of apps (similar to the apps on a smartphone).

Russell Isaac can be contacted on 0774 775 3764 or via www.ITHomeHelp.biz

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Darren “The Decorator” Time to give that room a makeover, update or freshen up?

For all your interior decorating requirements • Painting & Decorating • Wallpapering • Tiling • Plumbing • Sinks & Taps • Cloakrooms • Bathrooms • Assembling flat-pack furniture • General maintenance around the house

Why not give me a call for a free same-day estimate?

Call Darren in Stoke Bishop on 07836 683 116 darren.decorator@btinternet.com

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Building & Renovation - Property Maintenance & Repairs DESIGN • SUPPLY • INSTALL • FREE ESTIMATES • Kitchen & Bathroom design and installation • Tiling and plastering • Painting and decorating • Plumbing and heating • Electrical installations • Carpentry and joinery • Roofing, guttering, soffits and fascias • Wall removal - building regs obtained • General building and construction • Fully insured, all workmanship guaranteed 23

Please call 07880 598 726 or 0117 908 7115 alan@bristolmaintenance.com www.bristolmaintenance.com 35 Glebelands Road, Filton, Bristol, BS34 7AD

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24

With an already stretched court system, how has covid-19 effected the family courts?

•

While our family lawyers have found it relatively easy to switch to remote working over the last few months, the same cannot necessarily be said for our clients who are involved in court proceedings. As always, with the nature of family cases, clients often need a high level of support particularly during court hearings. This can be difficult to achieve remotely.

The Courts are very aware of these issues and initially some hearings of substance were adjourned due to the “potential unfairness” that could result from a remote hearing. However, a judgement always needs to be made in children cases about the safety of the children concerned and the effect of any delay. More recently guidance has been issued on how the judiciary should conduct the management of cases going forward.

The issues that have become evident to us are: •

•

Clients may not have face to face contact with their solicitor/ barrister during the hearing and so they are lacking the level of personal support they would usually receive. Contact between a client and their legal representative during a hearing is problematic.

As solicitors we are used to being able to pass a note to a barrister during a hearing but, now, any such communication has to be electronic.

It can be very triggering for a client to be dealing with injunction or children

Your local award winning law firm Wills

issues while sat in the family home.

Cross-examination may not be as effective without the pressures of the court room.

“The reality to be faced is that the Family Court must now, for a sustained period, seek to achieve the fair, just and timely determination of a high volume of cases with radically reduced resources in suboptimal court settings.”

In cases where the parties or witnesses are to be called to give evidence and which are not suitable for remote hearings, the Courts are now, on occasion, considering “Hybrid Hearings”. These involve some of the parties attending court and others attending remotely.

Where it is not possible to conduct a Hybrid or fully attended hearing then a remote hearing may still be the only way forward. Remote hearings can take place either by telephone or by video call.

At AMD Solicitors, our experienced family solicitors can offer you guidance and support through all aspects of family law. You can contact them by calling our Henleaze office on 0117 962 1205 or contacting info@amdsolicitors.com

Probate Family Property Commercial

Call us: 0117 962 1205 or visit: www.amdsolicitors.com

25

QUIZ TIME - answers on page 68 Sport 1. Which nation has won the most rugby Six Nations tournaments?

2. Which nation has provided the most Speedway World Champions/Grand Prix Champions?

3. Which golfer has won the Open Golf Championship the most times since the end of WW1?

4. Which team has won the fourth tier of the English football league the most times (so old 4th Division and current League 2)?

5. Which cricket team has won the English County Championship the most times?

Geography 1. Name the three largest countries in the world by population size.

2. How may independent countries are there in the African continent?

3. Name the five boroughs of the city of New York.

4. Madagascar is the worlds largest source of which spice?

5. Which was the first line to open on the London Underground, and in what decade?

Television 1. Name the farmer who regularly appears on Countryfile.

2. Place these three shows in order they first appeared on UK television (earliest first) - The Office, Pointless and The Inbetweeners.

3. Who routinely presents the lunchtime Politics Live show on BBC2?

4. These actors / actresses played which classic characters in Coronation Street - a) Bernard Youens, b) Violet Carson and c) Thelma Barlow?

5. 18 million viewers watch Fred Housego win what in 1980?

History 1. In what year did Margaret Thatcher become Prime Minister?

2. During what wars did these battles take place - a) Agincourt, b) Midway, and c) Trafalgar?

3. What was notable about Thomas Farrinerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s bakery?

4. From which centuries do these historical documents originate - a) Magna Carta, b) the Domesday Book, and (below) c) the Hereford Mappa Mundi?

The United Kingdom 1. How many counties (or shires) are there in a) Northern Ireland, b) Scotland, and c) Wales?

2. If you travelled in a straight line from Dover to Edinburgh which of these cities would you pass closest to Cambridge, Sheffield or Hull?

3. And if you travelled in a straight line from Plymouth to Newcastle which of these cities would you pass closest to Cardiff, Birmingham or Manchester?

4. The United Kingdom came into being constitutionally by the signing of the Acts of Union between England and Scotland in which decade?

5. Name the buildings shown overleaf.

5. Which competition first took place in Lugano, Italy in 1956 and was competed for by Belgium, France, Germany, Italy, Luxembourg, the Netherlands and Switzerland?

(continued overleaf)

26

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23/05/2020 11:58:35

QUIZ TIME - answers on page 68 Monopoly 1. In real life only one of the roads on the Monopoly board is south of the River Thames. Which road?

2. Which property costs £280 to purchase?

3. “A box for holding money or other valuables kept by a small organization and requiring more than one key to be simultaneously turned to open its lock, preventing embezzlement by any single key holder” is otherwise know as a what?

4. Which orange property gave its name to London’s first professional police force and once had Oliver Cromwell as a resident?

5. In terms or passenger arrivals and departures which is the busiest of the four railway stations on the Monopoly board?

Who Am I?

Events in 2020 1. Best known for his 1960 role as Spartacus, which actor died at the age of 103 in 2020?

2. Who was elected leader of the LibDems after their predecessor failed to win their seat at the 2019 election?

3. An unsafe ammonium nitrate store exploded, killing 200 and leaving 300,000 homeless, in which city?

4. On what date did the World Health Organisation declare the COVID-19 outbreak a pandemic?

5. Why was the Premier League match between AFC Bournemouth & Crystal Palace on 20th June significant ?

28

29

New Year’s Resolutions for Nature Whether the sun is shining, or the snow is falling, there is always something magical to see and do in nature during January. With all this recent talk of New Year’s resolutions, the RSPB shares 4 resolutions you could make that benefit nature too.

4,000 shops and sites to shop with through Easy Fundraising including Etsy, John Lewis, Argos, eBay, M&S, Waitrose, House of Fraser, Screwfix and many more - all of which donate to a number of charities when you shop online with them. All you have to do is go through the EasyFundraising website or app (available on app stores) whenever you shop online, select the RSPB as your chosen charity, and the nature charity will receive a % of your spend as a free donation. It won’t cost you a penny more as the retailer pays the donation, not you. Feel good shopping!

1. Start the new year in nature.

What better way to start the new year than by heading out on a mini adventure in nature?

January is a great time to get fit with a jog or simply go for a stroll to blow away the Christmas cobwebs. With more than 110 RSPB nature reserves in England there is plenty out there to be explored that might just be closer than you think. Many of the RSPB’s sites have bike racks too if you’re arriving or wanting to explore by pedal-power!

3. Take part inthe Big Garden Birdwatch It’s back! Big Garden Birdwatch is the world’s largest wildlife survey and has something for everyone –whether you’re a nature aficionado or complete novice bird spotter. This year’s event takes place on 29, 30 and 31 January 2021.

The Covid-19 pandemic has shown that for many people, garden birds provide an important connection to nature and bring joy and comfort as well as being vital for our mental health and wellbeing* Now the wildlife that has been a great source of solace for many this year is counting on you, to be counted!

Join the RSPB and spend just one hour watching and recording the birds in your garden, balcony or local park, then send the charity your results.

Close to half-a-million people join in the Birdwatch every year. Now in its 42nd year, 144 million birds have been counted giving the RSPB an astonishing amount of insight into how our wildlife is faring and how we can all help.

At this time of year look out for snow drops breaking through the leafy ground and take in some dramatic crisp views. If you’re lucky you might even spot a barn owl - January is one of the best times to see these magnificent birds as males begin to hunt in the daytime to gather food for females.

There are RSPB reserves at Newport Wetlands, Nagshead in the Forest of Fean, and at Ham Wall near Street. Find out a full list and check the latest Covid-19 updates on what’s open (especially important if you are thinking of seeing the starling murmurations) at www.rspb.org.uk.

2. Support the RSPB for free in the January sales The January sales are here. This year you can enjoy them guilt-free by supporting the RSPB as you shop and best of all - it’s free! Choose from

Redwing, seen above, and their bigger cousin the Fieldfare, are regular winter visitors to BS9

30

(continued overleaf)

Kemps Jewellers Est. 1881

Everyone in the team at Kemps would like to wish you all the very best for the new year and we look forward to seeing you soon in 2021!

Dazzling Jewellery - Sparkling Prices Rings and jewellery, new and old - a great range of modern new pieces to complement our existing selection of beautiful traditional second-hand jewellery. Why not pop in and have a look? We are a

local family business, offering you professional, friendly advice on beautiful gift ideas for ladies and gentlemen.

Kemps Jewellers, 9 Carlton Court, Westbury on Trym

0117 950 50 90 www.kempsjewellers.com 31

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New Year’s Resolutions for Nature (continued from p30) to feast on berries. Flocks, drawn to cotoneaster, hawthorn and rowan, seem to have arrived very early this winter.

fair trade snacks, check out the charity’s nature friendly goodies online or find your nearest onreserve shop at www.rspb.org.uk, and start you year with some feel good shopping.

To register, and for your FREE Big Garden Birdwatch guide, which includes a bird identification chart, top tips, RSPB shop voucher, plus advice on how to help you attract wildlife to your garden, text BIRD to 70030 or visit rspb.org. uk/birdwatch

* “Bringing nature into your everyday life can benefit both your mental and physical wellbeing.

It can improve your mood, reduce feelings of stress or anger, and make you feel more relaxed.”

Source www.mind.org.uk/information-support/ coronavirus-and-your-wellbeing/#collapsed1ecc

4. Buy Green

The RSPB is the UK’s largest nature conservation charity, inspiring everyone to give nature a home. Together with our partners, we protect threatened birds and wildlife so our towns, coast and countryside will teem with life once again.

We play a leading role in BirdLife International, a worldwide partnership of nature conservation organisations.

A great way to help the environment is to buy products that don’t harm, but support, nature.

There are a huge range of sustainable products available from the RSPB both online and from their on-reserve shops. What’s more, when you purchase through the RSPB, there’s the added benefit that the income raised helps fund the charity’s conservation work too. From organic cotton clothing to palm-oil free toiletries and

32

Are you retiring in 2021?

First of all, happy new year to you. I wonder if like me, you can’t quite believe it’s 2021 already! For those of you due to retire this year, congratulations!

If you don’t already have a solid plan for your retirement – or even if you do, when you’re nearing your retirement it’s a good idea to review your options and seek advice. You need to understand the choices for accessing your pension and make a plan for drawing down income from it to ensure you can enjoy the retirement you deserve.

remainder of the funds in different ways to provide you with a pension income.

Depending on the option you choose, your pension income can be in the form of a secure regular income or you could also consider drawing down income as required. The level of the drawdown may be limited and this needs to be carefully considered.

Unless you have a defined benefit pension, it’s likely if you have worked you will have some kind of personal pension.

The basic options currently available are:

The final value of this type of scheme depends on: •

The amount of contributions made by you, your employer and any third party

•

The performance of the investments made that the scheme is based on

•

The charges of the scheme.

•

Buying an annuity

•

Flexi-access drawdown

•

Lump sums

Even if you aren’t due to retire just yet, we may be able to help you feel more confident with a plan – who knows, you may be able to retire even earlier than you thought!

Harold Stephens provides friendly financial advice in the local community on a face-to-face basis in a welcoming location at 50, High Street, Westbury on Trym. The firm specialises in advising retired clients on savings, investments, Inheritance Tax and long-term care planning.

You can usually take up to 25% of your pension as a pension commencement lump sum (PCLS) tax free and use the

We can currently offer face to face appointments in our comfortable, ‘Covid safe’ office. Alternatively, we are also happy to talk over the phone or using video if this makes you more comfortable. Call or email us on 0117 3636 212 or office@haroldstephens. co.uk book and appointment to see me for a complimentary review.

33

Do you need an Attorney for your business?

Leila Goodarzi

Lasting Powers of Attorney (LPAs) have been around for a while, and enable a person to authorise someone else to make decisions on his or her behalf, in the event of physical or mental incapacity.

There are two types. A Health and Welfare LPA covers decisions relating to medical treatment and care. A Property and Financial Affairs LPA covers property dealings, pensions, operating bank accounts and so on.

Usually, LPAs are looked at under the â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;personal affairsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; umbrella, but there is a place for an LPA to deal with financial matters in business too - a Business LPA (BLPA).

Using a BLPA A BLPA enables partners in a business, members of an LLP, sole traders and directors to ensure that if a key decision maker is unable to act, someone else can do so. The person making the BLPA (the donor) can specify what tasks the attorney can undertake, for example entering into business contracts, dealing with staff, managing business assets and so on.

Essentially, these are matters relating to running the business, as opposed to working for it.

34

When using a BLPA, the attorney must act in the best interests of the donor and the business, and the donor can specify in the BLPA the decisions he or she would want the attorney to be able to make. It can also be helpful for the donor to make a separate memorandum to set out his or her wishes and views about the business, as guidance to assist the attorney if the BLPA has to be put into operation.

Who to choose?

The person chosen needs to be someone who understands the donorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s business and how it operates. This could be someone already working in the business itself, assuming there are no conflicts of interest, or a third party from outside, possibly in a related field. The Mental Capacity Act Code of Practice advises that an attorney should be trustworthy, competent and reliable, with the skills and ability to carry out the necessary tasks.

I already have an LPA - why do I need a BLPA? An attorney appointed under a personal Property and Financial Affairs LPA can take business decisions, but does that person have the necessary skills to do so? A BLPA enables the donor to appoint someone specifically for the purpose

of taking business decisions, and that appointment takes precedence over the personal LPA for matters relating to the business. The attorney appointed under the personal LPA can then concentrate on the personal affairs of the donor, without the additional complications of running a business.

What if I don’t have an attorney?

At worst, if the donor loses capacity to run the business, it could cease to operate. The business bank account might be frozen and staff unpaid,

contracts uncompleted, and claims made against the company for its failures. In that case, an application would have to be made to the Court of Protection for the appointment of a Deputy, a process which can take many months and is much more expensive and restrictive.

If you think you need a BLPA, please contact Leila Goodarzi in our Private Client team on 07909 682 364, or at lgoodarzi@vwv.co.uk

Need Legal Advice?

• • • •

Buying or selling a house Estate administration Family, divorce & children Lasting powers of attorney

• Personal injury • Wills & inheritance tax • Will disputes

Our COVID-compliant offices are open by appointment only.

Contact Leila Goodarzi at lgoodarzi@vwv.co.uk or on 0117 925 2020.

vwv.co.uk

35

IN THE GARDEN WITH CATHY LEWIS Hedges Hedges make wonderful garden boundaries.

They provide shelter for wildlife, dampen sound, act as windbreaks and provide privacy and seasonal interest. There are a large number of shrubs that can be used as hedging so whatever size and style your garden, there’ll be a hedging plant to suit it.

With so much choice, don’t just plump for fast growing leylandii. Left unrestrained they form green monoliths that overpower their surroundings. There are plenty of other options that will give you - and your neighbours - so much more.

The first step to choosing a hedging plant is to pinpoint what you want it to achieve.

Here are a few options to get you started…

For small gardens choose shrubs such as privet, yew or osmanthus that can be clipped and kept narrow to save on space.

Yew is a wonderful hedging plant. Unlike many other conifers it can be clipped back into old wood and is ideal for crisp formal hedging or for cloud pruning and topiary if you fancy adding a flamboyant touch to your garden.

If you’re after a more informal, ornamental hedge go for something with colourful leaves, berries, flowers or scent. There are some lovely foliage options such as pittosporum and photinia, while escallonia has attractive pink or red flowers. Varieties of osmanthus and viburnum will tempt you outside with their deliciously scented blooms.

36

For security there are some very thorny shrubs that will give both large and small intruders a run for their money. Holly, hawthorn, berberis and pyracantha are four good but fiendishly prickly examples.

For privacy, consider evergreens such as yew, holly and laurel - Portuguese laurel is a particularly fine option.

If you want to create a boundary to attract wildlife to your garden, mixed native hedging is ideal. Choose plants that provide shelter as well as food in the form of berries, flowers, nuts and fruits. Use hawthorn as the mainstay, with a mix of other natives such as wild privet, blackthorn, spindle and holly woven in.

Take a look at the RHS website for a comprehensive list of hedging plants www. rhs.org.uk/advice/profile?pid=351 Cathy Lewis, Dip. PGSF Professional garden design, consultancy and maintenance Tel: 07985 008 858 www.cathylewisgardens.co.uk

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37

TALKING PETS WITH VIKING VETS Sitting here mid December, 2021 seem a long way away. We still have no deal with EU, and I am getting a bit worried about the supply chain, so have done some Brexit preparation in the surgery. This is not the first time we have been stocking up on important medication, but will hopefully be the last time. Being an independent small animal veterinary practice, we have no back office working out strategies for the future. My husband and I normally make most decisions over a meal. We eat all three meals of the day together, when important topics are discussed, action decided and implemented. We stock hundreds of different types of medication, but we have decided that the most important is to be able to perform a general anaesthetic, be able to give intravenous fluid, vaccinate and put pets to sleep. The majority of other medication have alternatives so we can find a way around a shortage.

conduct both national and international business and higher education may change forever by students being able to study remotely.

I am looking forward to being able to travel and meet people socially again. Humans are a very social animal and does not thrive being alone. We saw a huge increase in people buying puppies (and kittens too) realising that they would be at home for a prolonged period of time. These have enriched many peopleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s lives enormously, let us hope that they carry on thriving as life goes back to a new normal. Thankfully with the vaccine being rolled out we may get a 2021 that is a bit brighter then 2020.

Maria Lowe Viking Vets

Otis (l) and Spud (r) two of our new clients this year

I think most people will agree that 2020 was extremely challenging, however it has been impressed to see how quickly we have adapted to new ways of behaving. Watching a pre 2020 film where people hug or shake hands makes you sit up and think they will get COVID. Seeing people without a mask in a shop makes you scowl. Online meetings and teaching have changed the way we

We are a small, independent practice with an experienced and compassionate team of vets and nurses.

Our aim is to tailor make every regime for your pet to ensure the best treatment for both them and you.

Viking Vets

We would be delighted to meet you and your pet and welcome the opportunity to show you around our practice.

Chevening, Station Road, Henbury, Bristol, BS10 7QQ

Please contact us to arrange an appontment.

0117 950 5888

Opening Times

www.vikingvets.com thevets@vikingvets.com

Monday - Friday Saturday 8am - 6.30pm 9am-12pm Consultation by Appointment 38

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RIVER AVON TIDE TIMES The highest weekend tide times, 13m+, are highlighted in red. Slightly higher than these three are on Thursday 14th at 07.51 and Friday 15th 08.36 - both 13.3 metres.

High Tide

Low Tide

High Tide

Low Tide

Sat 2nd January

09.07

15.48

21.32

Sun 3rd January

09.46

16.22

22.12

Sat 9th January

03.03

09.38

15.38

22.24

Sun 10th January

04.17

10.57

16.47

23.33

Sat 16th January

09.17

16.04

21.40

Sun 17th January

09.55

16.33

22.14

Sat 23rd January

01.48

08.10

14.35

20.54

Sun 24th January

03.08

09.30

15.49

22.09

Sat 30th January

08.17

15.10

20.43

Sun 31st February

08.57

15.50

21.23

© Crown Copyright and/or database rights. Reproduced by permission of the Controller of Her Majesty’s Stationery Office and the UK Hydrographic Office (www.GOV.uk/UKHO).

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43

MUSIC - DUNCAN HASKELL After a number of years of him throwing new releases and often obscure back catalogue items at us, to help widen and enhance our musical tastes, I decided it was time to see which LP’s our regular music writer couldn’t do without if he were to be marooned on Steep Holm with just a wind-up gramaphone for company. So here are Duncan Haskell’s top five albums of all time -

follow-up In Utero which I always return to - perhaps due to Steve Albini’s scuzzy production which removed some of the former’s AOR sheen.

This is Cobain firing on all cylinders, both lyrically and musically, on an album which remains grunge’s finest moment. It was also his band’s studio swansong, one which stands the test of time in all its twisted glory.

After the Gold Rush by Neil Young (Reprise, 1970) Neil Young’s back catalogue is as confounding as it is spectacular. For every Harvest there’s an Everybody’s Rocking for every Zuma a Greendale.

Yet it’s that dogged determination to follow the muse which makes him the most compelling artist of the 20th century. To pick my favourite of his albums is nearly impossible, ask me tomorrow and I might go for On the Beach or Everybody Knows This Is Nowhere. Today I’m picking After the Gold Rush - a record that showcases his gentle side (Don’t Let It Bring You Down, Only Love Can Break Your Heart), his otherworldly axe playing (Southern Man) and everything in between.

Radiator by Super Furry Animals (Creation, 1997) The battle between Blur and Oasis might have made all the headlines back in the day, but they were the least exciting part of the Britpop explosion. Away from the tabloids there were plenty of bands offering something a little different, the very best being wonky Welsh wonders the SFA. Radiator is a smorgasbord of ideas, with songs about the young Albert Einstein sitting comfortably alongside tributes to the Welsh landscape and blasts of indie rock balanced with subtler experimentations in electronica. Released the same year as the bloated Be Here Now and the underwhelming Blur, Radiator remains king.

Appetite for Destruction by Guns ‘N’ Roses (Geffen, 1987) One of the first cassettes I ever owned (made by a naughty neighbour) had the soundtrack to Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat on side A and Appetite for Destruction on side B. For a couple of months, these hugely contrasting beings competed for my affections before Axl, Slash, Duff and co. came out on top. Appetite has been on semipermanent rotation ever since. Balancing a visceral sense of danger with genuine songcraft, it’s a debut which few have ever come close to and remains the creative zenith of a band who grew in pomposity with each subsequent release.

De Stijl by The White Stripes (Sympathy for the Record Industry, 2000) Though the importance of musical “scenes” are often blown up by the press, the arrival of The Strokes and The White Stripes on our shores back in the early noughties felt like the genuine kick up the arse we all needed. Leading the way were Jack and Meg White, a guitarslinging troubadour and his drum thumping sister (who actually turned out to be his ex wife).

Strangely, there masterpiece had already been released by the time the UK listening public were turned on to them. De Stijl is a powerhouse of a record bringing together blues and garage rock influences then freshening them up to make an almighty noise of their own.

In Utero by Nirvana (DGC, 1993) Though Axl Rose and Kurt Cobain may have been firm rivals, famously clashing at the 1992 MTV Awards, I’ve always had space in my record collection for both G N’ R and Nirvana.

Nevermind may be the group’s radio-friendly unit shifter (30 million copies sold worldwide), but it’s

Duncan Haskell

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17/05/2020 11:44:12

Local resident offers help to small business owners during pandemic

award-winning Revos e-bike kit company, Revolutionworks, with his son Hugo, notes: “As a relatively new company we have many demands on our time and in particular we do not have comprehensive sales and marketing skills in-house. George made us evaluate our requirements and prioritise them so that we could start sales and marketing activities quickly.”

Local Westbury Park resident, George Devane, is helping local businesses generate new business during the pandemic. As an experienced, freelance business development and marketing consultant, she is offering business owners a free introductory session to explore how they can achieve their potential in these challenging times.

Al Sweet, co-founder of Bristol-based consultancy, Warner McCall, adds: “George is a dedicated, diligent and effective consultant, who has delivered outputs and outcomes that have greatly exceeded our expectations.”

George comments “As we know, Covid-19 has had a huge impact on both individuals and local businesses, with some small companies struggling to stay afloat. We have also seen a rise in the number of start-ups, as people faced with redundancy want to take the opportunity to try and work for themselves. Bristol is well-known for having a thriving start-up and small business community, that often have an exciting offer but don’t know how to maximise their potential. My company, Devane Consulting, provides business development and marketing support, to help them turn that great idea into a successful business.”

If you’d like to book a free introductory session with George, then please contact her at george@devaneconsulting.co.uk With over 25 years’ experience in marketing, business development and business growth, Devane Consulting offers a holistic range of flexible consulting services to help start-ups, scale-ups and SMEs achieve their potential. Flexible contracts enable clients to implement one-off projects or secure regular, ongoing support.

Westbury Park resident and local entrepreneur, Mark Palmer, who runs the 49

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Conservative Councillors for Westbury-on-Trym & Henleaze Geoff Gollop •Cllr.geoffrey.gollop@bristol.gov.uk Liz Radford Steve Smith

• •

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We send our very best wishes for the New Year. Take care and stay healthy in 2021.

Grange Court Road flats. The December planning committee confirmed the rejection of the outrageous proposal for 2 additional floors to be built on top of the existing building. The meeting set out grounds for refusal which will be helpful for any similar applications.

Council budget proposals published late January. Let us know if you want more details.

We are holding our first 2021 ward zoom meeting at 7pm on 19th January, please go to http://tiny.cc/WandHJan21 to book in. The next meeting will be on 9th February.

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T2924 JS JAN SALE 2020 Bristol Life 95x265.indd 1

04/12/2020 10:13

PRIZE WORDSEARCH IDEA RELEASE DELHI LIFE ROSE SERIES YEAR STAND ORLEANS ZEALAND AVENGERS STATESMAN LOOK SEEKERS CASTLE ORDER GOLD DREAMS ENGLAND YORK POTATOES KIDS ON THE BLOCK

As it is the start of a new year it seemed appropriate to have a “new” theme to this month’s puzzle. So, listed below are 21 “new” things and places. Twenty of them have been hidden in the word search grid meaning one “new” thing has been left behind. Discover the one that is missing the words can be found running forwards, backwards, up, down or on a diagonal - and send it in to me by 31st January to be in with a chance of winning a £30 voucher to spend at an independent shop, in the area, of your choice. Entries please to andy@ bcmagazines.co.uk, 8 Sandyleaze, WoT, BS9 3PY, 0117 259 1964 or 07845 986650.

Thanks as ever to everybody who took the trouble to enter the November competition - probably a record number which is nice.

Two fruit baskets were up for grabs - and they will be going to Lyndon Walker and Nicky Wilkinson who were the first out of the hat of correct entries spotting Cherry as the missing fruit.

Right, here are the “new” things you are looking for -

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St Bonaventure’s Catholic Primary school is situated in the heart of Bishopston. It can be accessed by car via Egerton Road or on foot via Friary Lane.

St Bon’s is a two-form entry, Catholic primary school which serves pupils living both in the local and wider Bristol area. We were fortunate to complete our renovation works in 2014 and now benefit from a new school building and landscaped grounds which include a multi-use games area.

We were delighted to see that we were ranked joint 159th in The Sunday Telegraph’s top 250 primary schools in England. We are also really pleased to be one of only two Bristol primary schools to feature.

Children attending St Bon’s are provided with a broad and exciting curriculum. Our academic curriculum is based on our Gospel values and organised into three themes which all pupils engage with.

Our wider school curriculum includes the provision of Forest school for all Reception aged pupils and a wide range of extra-curricular activities: drama club, hockey, football, netball, early morning swimming, debating club and prayer club to name just a few.

We really value outdoor learning and make good use of our extensive grounds and facilities. Pupils in upper key stage two have the opportunity to attend residential visits and a spiritual retreat.

For parents who require it, wrap around provision is also available and run by school staff.

Email: admissions.stbonaventures @bristol-schools.uk Web: stbons.uk Phone: 0117 353 2830

S T B O N AV E N T U R E ’ S CATHOLIC PRIMARY SCHOOL Striving to be the best we can, guided by the light of Christ

MID-YEAR PLACES AVAILABLE For pupils in Years 2, 3, 5 and 6.

Appointments for tours available by request. All are welcome at St Bonaventure’s.

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HISTORY NOTES No. 154 - JULIAN LEA-JONES Wassailing the New Year and the Loving Cup ceremony Wassailing traditionally took place each New Year when villagers danced and sang in the village orchard to frighten away bad spirits and to thank the good spirits, and the Green Man (the symbolisation of the cycle of life, death and rebirth), for the trees’ wellbeing.

This pagan ceremony, including ‘Morris Men’, was reintroduced in Bristol by former barrister the late Frank Buckley, at his own orchard at Cribbs Causeway. Since Frank’s death and loss of his orchard the Wassail has been performed by community orchards in Bristol. In recent years even business savvy owners of commercial cider apple orchards have realised, as did our pagan forefathers, that Wassailing improves their harvest. A modern twist includes the firing of shotguns or fireworks into the branches to frighten away bad spirits.

Sadly, under the present circumstances our local Horfield Community Organic Orchard, off Kings Drive cannot host their traditional community wassail which of course normally takes place every January.

But nevertheless they say they hope to “welcome our friends, neighbours, and supporters into the orchard later in 2021.”

However in the meantime if you are allowed to travel, which may be dependent upon official announcements which seem to vary from day to day, and you are able to visit Sandford near Weston-uper-Mare, the Sandford Cider Works are still planning to hold their wassail on Tuesday 12th Jan 2021 from 19.00 to 22.00 hrs. However In light of unforeseen travel restrictions it might be worth checking on their website, see below, before you set off.

Their website announcement says, “Bonfires, pots, pans, clatter, commotion and a volley of shotgun blasts! The ancient Anglo-Saxon tradition of Wassailing involves waking tree spirits and blessing the orchard, and shooing off pesky evil demons to ensure a bountiful crop in the year to come. Hot mulled cider and pizza nibbles (how traditional...) are provided in abundance to keep you warm during our winter celebration. Entertainment includes the wassail play from the Brown Paper Mummers, the fire dance from Great Western Morris and the ceremony MC’d by

But what of the meaning of wassail? The Anglo - Saxon Wassail Bowl - a cup of mead, cider or spiced ale drunk on New Year’s Eve or Day - derives from the everyday greeting Wæs hal!. Hal is the ancestor of the modern English word hale, and wæs hal literally meant “Be healthy!”

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HISTORY NOTES No. 154 - JULIAN LEA-JONES Byrde coat of arms is still in use at Bristol’s civic banquets.

our local green man. Wrap up warm and bring something noisy, to help us scare the demons away from our precious apple trees”.

The Anglo Saxon greeting wæs hal gradually contracted to wassail, referring to the act of toasting someone’s health. In accordance with Papal instructions, missionaries to these shores Christianised the pagan ceremony by renaming the Wassail Bowl “Poc’ulum Carita’tis” (The Loving Cup), a name still used by London Livery companies and fraternal organisations, whilst universities and colleges generally call it The Grace Cup. At least one toasting ceremony still regularly takes place in Bristol, and although it is usual for grace in the form of a short thanksgiving prayer to be said before a meal, the Grace Cup usually accompanies a parting grace.

On the 20th June 1986 a ceremony took place when Mr John James, one of Bristol’s and the school’s principal 20th Century benefactors, used the same Tudor cup in a ceremony that took place at QEH to commemorate both his visit and the four hundredth anniversary of the death of the School’s founder, a Bristol Merchant, John Carr. The ceremony and use of the Grace Cup to mark the affection and esteem in which the School holds John James was doubly appropriate as it had been given as a gesture of affection 387 years before.

Horfield Organic Community Orchard www. community-orchard.org.uk

The Pledge Cup ceremony reminds us of the assassination of King Edward, (Edward the Martyr), which took place in Corfe Castle on the 18th March AD978. In this modern ceremony the cup is passed around the table with each drinker pledging the safety of the next by turning to guard their back before the toast taker passes to the next and in turn guards the next persons back and so on until all have safely partaken.

The Wassail – Sandford Orchards. www. sandfordorchards.co.uk/events/wassail-2021/ Source J. Lea-Jones paper for 32nd Medieval Conference, Michigan University, The Association Villard de Honnecourt for Medieval Archaeology. \Medieval Metals Paper - The Loving Cup - Ceremony and derivation.

The Green Man image is similar to that carved beside the doorway at Harcourt House, 118 Coldharbour Rd, Redland where, completely coincidentally, lived a Mr Greenman.

Here in in Bristol in 1599 a large silver gilt Grace Cup was given to Queen Elizabeth’s Hospital, QEH, by the widow of William Byrde (Bird) the Younger as a gesture of his affection. The Cup, about 37 cm tall, surmounted by a female figure bearing the

Eur-Ing. Julian Lea-Jones - C. Eng., FRAeS © Julian Lea-Jones, 2020 58

YOU CAN LEARN TO PLAY THE DRUMS Friendly ‘In Person’ and live online lessons Bristol BS9 More info at

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Call John on 07967 697 361 or jshoggett@outlook.com 59

This January make a difference to those you love

your wishes are clear and legally valid, to support those you intended; preventing family fallout.

After the year we have all had, it has highlighted how the most important thing in our lives is the people we love and care about.

If you have young or vulnerable members of your family, the Simpson’s service covers advice on how best to provide future provision for them in their particular circumstances. As well as advice for parents on appointing guardians to raise their children.

2020 and the threat of COVID hanging over us all, has also highlighted how important it is to have our legal affairs in order – to make a big difference to those we most love. It is only by having an up to date Will and Powers of Attorney in place, that if you became seriously ill you can make sure your wishes are followed.

The service starts with a free advice meeting. Either face to face in the office, or if getting in is difficult for you it can be at your home, or by telephone or Zoom. Always in a COVID safe way. The award winning team (Law Firm of the Year 2020) also give you the promise of No Hidden Costa and include a free supported signing meeting and free life-long storage of your documents in their clear fixed prices.

An out of date Will or no Will can mean those you love suffer the upset of the inheritance going to the wrong people or being wasted on legal disputes or paying care home fees or inheritance tax - that could have been avoided.

Michelle Baden-Daintree, says “Our service will let you make a big difference to those you love. The free meeting doesn’t just cover the Will. We will guide you through all the issues you should think about to prevent problems for your family. You will not feel rushed, as we take as long as you need”

Not having up to date Lasting Powers of Attorney can means those you trust (who would most want to support you) are left feeling helpless and unable to make sure you got the support you would want.

Lasting Powers of Attorney mean they can help you with decisions on where you live, what medical care you receive and managing you money and paying your bills – if you became too ill to do this yourself.

John Baden-Daintree, says “Book your free January meeting now by calling our friendly team on 0117 959 2266 and get 20% off our already competitive prices. That way you’ll be remembered for all the right reasons and not for leaving a legal mess for your family to sort out”.

Our experts at Simpson Solicitors, will ensure this is all done properly for you. They can help you ensure

FREE WILL REVIEW WE’LL MAKE SURE YOU ARE REMEMBERED FOR ALL THE RIGHT REASONS No one wants to leave behind a legal mess for their family to sort. Simpson Solicitors will give you peace of mind that your Wills & Powers of Attorney are properly prepared.

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On your own Wills: It’s how you decide who you want to inherit from you.

“We were made to feel very welcome and cared for” H.L. “You have lifted a great weight off our shoulders” C.R.

Living Together Wills: Without one, your partner will not inherit anything from you, if you are not married or in a registered civil partnership.

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BOOK YOUR FREE MEETING: Call 0117 959 2266 OR message@simpsonslawuk.com OR Michelle at Simpson Solicitors OR call into 14 High Street, Westbury-on-Trym. If getting to us is difficult, our FREE home visit service covers all Coombe Dingle, Filton, Henleaze, Horfield, Redland, Sea Mills, Sneyd Park, Stoke Bishop and Westbury.

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Beware of Inheritance Tax Traps

large enough to exceed your nil-rate band. Under the seven-year rule, if you survive the gift by seven years or more it is free of inheritance tax.

Inheritance Tax is often misunderstood and mistakes can be expensive. Beware of the following traps: 1.

5. IHT allowances aren’t applied automatically: When you die you would expect any unused nil-rate band and the new residence nil-rate band to transfer to your spouse or civil partner. However, this will only happen if your executors claim the relief on forms IHT402 and IHT436 respectively within two years from the end of the month of the second death.

You can discuss this with your solicitor.

If you give away an asset but retain use of it this will be a retention of benefit for IHT purposes unless you pay a market rent for doing so. The seven year rule works backwards from the date of death so you could be paying rent for many years and the recipient may be left paying income tax.

2. You may be liable to pay inheritance tax before you die: IHT does not just apply on death. It can also be charged at 20pc on transfers into trust above the available nil rate band.

6. Isas will usually be caught by IHT: Remember that IHT can catch assets outside Britain as well as here and it also applies to Isas even though they are otherwise tax free.

3. Alternative Investment Market (AIM) shares aren’t always IHT free.

IHT business property relief will usually apply on shares listed on the AIM, but only if the company satisfies various qualifying conditions.

7. Executors are personally liable to pay IHT: Executors should make absolutely sure that they retain sufficient funds to settle the IHT bill before distributing the assets of the estate or they could become personally liable for any shortfall. This can be a particular problem if the deceased made large lifetime transfers within the previous seven years and the recipient fails to pay the IHT due within twelve months.

4. Don’t gift unless you have to:Taper relief applies on gifts at 20pc after three years, up to 80pc after six years but this is on the tax otherwise due, not on the value of the gift. You will not save any tax unless the gift was

Email: enquiries@lyonslaw.co.uk Website: www.lyonslaw.co.uk Telephone: 0117 950 6506

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It would be sensible to take legal advice to address the risk of falling into the above pitfalls. In any event with the prospect of wide ranging capital tax reforms coming into play over the next few years it is always prudent to regularly review the terms of your Will.

Edward Lyons

Bristol North West Climate Action Group January update

to Gloucester with new stations at Ashley Down, Henbury and North Filton

Happy New Year! Let’s start on a positive note and look at all the achievements there have been locally to tackle the climate emergency. This is such an important year if we really are going to ‘build back better’ and reach net zero in time to save our beautiful planet.

“For the first time, the West of England now has a long-term regional rail improvement plan to get our region moving. This will give us the sort of sustainable transport network we need so that people can get to their job, to school or enjoy their leisure time with a practical alternative to using the car.” Said WECA metro mayor Tim Bowles.

Bristol Airport expansion halted One of the biggest achievements, we believe as a group, last year was to firstly get Somerset County Council to oppose the expansion of Bristol airport and then to ensure that Bristol City Council endorsed that decision.

As Cllr Steve Clarke said, “It’s quite simple really – if a Council supports airport expansion, which will cause over one million tonnes more carbon dioxide emissions, it is not taking the climate emergency seriously.”

travelwest.info/news/plan-approved-totransform-west-of-england-rail-travel Forest of Avon: Root for our Children The Forest of Avon Trust have planted 70 school orchards and engaged thousands of school children in education and awareness of tree planting and care and the benefits of trees. If your school wishes to plant trees either on school land or an area you have identified locally, do get in touch. We also have an immediate fund available for a school orchard if your school would like one! Ffi: partnerships@ forestofavontrust.org

There may be further appeals during the year, so watch this space!

Transforming rail travel In late December the West of England Combined Authority set out its plans to transform travel by rail over the next ten years. There will new rail routes, step-free access at stations and more frequent ‘turn up and go’ services.

Projects to be delivered by 2025 include: • Re-opening the Portishead line including new stations Pill and Portishead • Increasing services on the Severn Beach to Westbury line and providing a new station at Bristol’s Portway Park and Ride site • Upgrading and extending the Henbury line, extending services

Keep in touch To join our mailing list and to share your ideas, reflections and creative ways that can help tackle the climate emergency locally.

Email: BNWclimateaction@ outlook.com 62

FINANCIAL SUPPORT FOR BS9

We are a team of independent financial advisers focussed on delivering excellence. Our experience and insight enables us to match our services to your specific needs, throughout your entire financial journey with us.

We have 2 specialist advisors that represent us in BS9 so if you are looking for tax efficient independent financial advice please do get in contact:

Ben Olson B.Sc(Hons) Dip. PFS Independent Financial Adviser

Call 01275 373348

E-mail b.olson@grosvenorconsultancy.co.uk

Phil James Dip. PFS Independent Financial Adviser

Call 01275 373348 / 07847 490270

E-mail p.james@grosvenorconsultancy.co.uk

"providing structure and direction to your finances"

Become a Client:

The Grosvenor Consultancy experience is defined by outstanding service and a comprehensive commitment to the provision of exceptional advice. If you are considering becoming a client, we would like to make sure that our services will be suitable and beneficial for you.

Please call us on 01275 373348 or visit www.grosvenorconsultancy.co.uk

Grosvenor Consultancy Limited, 76 Macrae Road, Eden Office Park, Ham Green, Bristol, BS20 0DD T: 01275 373348 | E: ifa@grosvenorconsultancy.co.uk www.grosvenorconsultancy.co.uk Registered No: 3509936. Authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority

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CHILDRENâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S PUZZLES - answers on page 68 Who Am I? Can you spot the famous people disguised below?

What or Who Am I? Pick the correct name to match the photo.

Orange Cream

Lucy

Finland

Duke of Edinburgh

Strawberry Delight

Bart

Norway

Duke of York

Toffee Deluxe

Homer

Denmark

Duke of Sussex

Fudge

Marge

Iceland

Duke of Kent

Where Am I? In which countries would you find the following landmarks?

64

Having a clear out?

The items you donate to Emmaus Bristol can have a bigger impact than you think.

Nothing makes a clear-out easier than knowing your items are going to a worthy cause instead of wasting away in landfill. We accept pre-loved treasures, clothes, books and furniture to sell in our shops.

The income generated through the sale of your high-quality donations helps us to provide accommodation, training, daily support and work experience to people who have been homeless.

If youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re decluttering your closet full of high street brands, designer clothes, and work outfits, or looking for a place to donate good quality furniture, household goods, electrical items or books, then consider sending them our way!

Drop off donations: Our donation drop off is located at our Stokes Croft and Bedminster shops.

You will need to call us beforehand to book a time slot on 0117 954 0886.

We kindly ask that all donations are bagged or boxed.

Collections:

Large or multiple items? To qualify for a free collection, items must be in good condition suitable for re-sale. Call 0117 954 0886, Option 1 to enquire.

You can donate your quality65pre-loved items all year round!

LOCAL LITTER PICKING During the pandemic local support and communication groups have sprung up widely, with neighbourhoods taking advantage of modern technology and the existence of social media platforms such as WhatsApp. Many things - carol singing, neighbourhood security, free-trading and swapping of advice and recommendations is often now done at a micro level, street by street.

time of writing, but another reason for adopting the twin approach is that people can react to local litter problems and the big group activity can focus on big problems such as cleaning the Trym river system area and supporting community litter picking groups around ther BS9 area.

SusWoT litter pickers supported the embryonic Sustainable Southmead in September and helped collect 180 sacks of rubbish in 17 successive days of litter picking, in superb litterpicking conditions. SusWoT are also helping volunteers in Sea Mills and Coombe Dingle with getting their litter picking going.

The pandemic is having a considerable affect on Bristol Waste’s and Bristol Park’s ability to deal with litter and recycling. There are fewer staff due to sickness and self-isolation. With residents not going out to work, eat or drink or go on away on holiday there is huge increase in amount of recycling and rubbish that needs to be handled, particularly glass!

The team at SusWoT are now organising their litterpicking using similar principles, where instead of one large monthly event they are equipping individuals and pairs of volunteers so they can tackle their very local areas. So far 16 rounds are cleaned by about 25 people. About two thirds of Westbury is covered. SusWoT will though continue with its monthly litter pick on the last Sunday of the month as many litterpickers enjoy working together.

If you would like to help keep your neighbourhood clean and tidy please get in touch. SusWoT, with assistance from Bristol Waste can provide the highest quality equipment, (the streetmasterpro litter pickers used by SusWoT are a familiar site on the streets of Paris,) organise rubbish collection and provide training and support If you would like to join the SusWoT litter picking team email suswot2050@gmail.com. A map of currently assigned litter picking rounds can be found at www.suswot.org.uk/litter-roundsassigned. Thanks you for your support.

The virus means that litterpicking needs to take place in pairs or alone under the restrictions at

IT RESCUE

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Happy to make Covid • Offering: compliant House Calls • Friendly Help & Advice • Secure Remote Support (inc Android) omputer ALL Your C • Installation & Configuration Solved !

Problems • Virus & Malware Removal Small Business & • Repairs, Health & Security Checks Home Office Specialist • Supplying: • PCs, Laptops, Servers & Printers Mbl: 07779 337882 • Network & Wireless Technologies Tel: 01179 118094 • ADSL, Anti-Virus & Firewalls Eml: Support@FAB-ITRescue.co.uk 66

Bristol

Carpet & Flooring Group

Carpet, Flooring & Curtains

Nailsea

Westbury-on-Trym

Fishponds

10 Clevedon Walk, Nailsea Bristol BS48 1RS nailsea@ bristolcarpetflooring.co.uk 01275 868838

11a Canford Lane, W-O-T, Bristol BS9 3DE westbury@ bristolcarpetflooring.co.uk 0117 9592128 67

Unit 4 Crofts End Ind. Est, Fishponds, BS5 7UW warehouse@ bristolcarpetflooring.co.uk 0117 9516881

QUIZ ANSWERS General Knowledge from page 26 Sport 1. England (7 times in 21 tournaments); 2. Sweden and Denmark have each had 14 winning riders from 75 championships; 3. Peter Thompson and Tom Watson have five victories each; 4.Chesterfield have won the Div 4 / League 2 title four times; 5. Yorkshire have won 32 championships.

History 1. 1979; 2a) the Hundred Years War, b) World War II, and c) the Napoleonic Wars; 3. it was where the Great Fire of London started; 4a) thirteenth (1215), eleventh (1086), and c) thirteenth or fourteenth, it is dated around 1300; 5. the Eurovision Song Contest.

Geography 1. China, India, USA; 2. fifty four; 3. The Bronx, Brooklyn, Manhattan, Queens, and Staten Island; 4. vanilla; 5. the Metropolitan Line, 1860â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s (1863).

Television 1. Adam Henson; 2. The Office (2001), The Inbetweeners (2008), Pointless (2009); 3. Jo Coburn; 4a) Stan Ogden, b) Ena Sharples, and c) Mavis Wilton / Riley; 5. Mastermind.

The United Kingdom 1a) six, b) thirty two, and c) eight; 2. Cambridge; 3. Manchester ; 4. seventeen hundreds (1707); 5.

Stormont, the Welsh Assembly and the Scottish Parliament buildings Events in 2020 1. Kirk Douglas, 2. Sir Ed Davey; 3. Beirut; 4. March 11th; 5. it was the first Premier League match shown live on the BBC. Monopoly 1. Old Kent Road; 2. Picadilly; 3. Community Chest; 4. Bow Street; 5. Liverpool Street.

Who Am I? Mikhail Gorbachev, Jacinda Ardern (NZ Prime Minister), JR Ewing from Dallas (Larry Hagman), Toyah Willcox Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Puzzles from page 64 Who Am I? Claudia Winkleman, the Duchess of Cornwall (Camilla Parker Bowles), Paul Hollywood, Marcus Rashford What Am I? Fudge, Bart Simpson, Finland, Duke of Sussex Where Am I? The Matterhorn in Switzerland, Uluru (Ayers Rock) in Australia, Auschwitz-Birkenau in Poland, the Forth Rail Bridge in Scotland Disclaimer The Bristol Nine is published by Bristol Community Magazines Ltd (Co. No. 08448649, registered at 8 Sandyleaze, Westbury on Trym, Bristol, BS9 3PY). The views expressed by contributors or advertisers in The Bristol 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 aims or its methods. Bristol Community Magazines Ltd cannot be held responsible for information disclosed by advertisers, all of which are accepted in good faith. Reasonable efforts are made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained in this magazine but no liability can be accepted for any loss or inconvenience caused as a result of inclusion, error or omission. All content is the copyright of Bristol Community Magazines Ltd and may not be reproduced without the prior written consent of Bristol Community Magazines.

68

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WHAT’S ON & COMMUNITY NEWS Listings continue to be a little different at the moment. Given the current restrictions on gatherings, and the continuing requirement for social distancing, the ongoing operation of many of the clubs, societies, choirs, social groups, fitness sessions and companionship groups remains difficult.

Bristol Alexander School www.bristolalexanderschool.co.uk Caroline at cchalk19@gmail.com Bristol Astronomical Society www.bristolastrosoc.org.uk Bristol Bridge Club. New bridge lessons starting in the New Year. New to bridge or want to improve?

Join an online course. For further details, please contact teaching@bristolbridgeclub.co.uk

If the organisers of any group that wants a fuller updated listing, detailing how they will be running things in a coronavirus-compliant manner, wishes to get in touch then I will be more than happy to include them. So, here are the regularly listed clubs and groups together with ther latest contact details I have. If these are incorrect please accept my apologies, and do please update me by emailing andy@bcmagazines.co.uk.

Bristol Brunel Lions Club Bill O’Neill at lion.bill@virginmedia.com Bristol Cabot Choir admin@bristolcabotchoir.org www.bristolcabotchoir.org

All Together Now Bristol Choir www.alltogethernowchoir.com

Bristol Chamber Choir www.bristolchamberchoir.org.uk Rae Ford on 0117 939 1685 rodcoomber@aol.co.uk

Alpine Garden Society 0117 967 3160.

The Arts Society Bristol Would you like to join us for lectures on a wide range of arts related subjects, given by specialists in their own field?

These are currently being delivered online and we would welcome new members. The lecture on 12 January is on Caravaggio and on 9 February is on “Dickens, Lawrence and Zhivago: David Lean’s art of cinema”. For more information visit our website www.theartssociety-bristol.org.uk

Bristol Community Gamelan keithripley27@gmail.com phone 9444241 Bristol Grandparents Support Group 07773 258 270 / www.bgsg.co.uk Bristol Indoor Bowls Club Email: info@bristolindoorbowls.org.uk Tel: 0117 963 3460 www.bristolindoorbowls.org.uk. The club has reopened and members have returned with suitably revised playing and socialising policies to meet Covid-19 restrictions, full details and updates on our website. Free coaching is available.

Babbers Radio Show info@ujimaradio.com.

Beaufort Junior Badminton Club Penny at pennyshears@googlemail.com 07941 013 514 Biodanza Classes Sheila on 07731 697 938.

Bristol Morris Men www.bristolmorrismen.co.uk Grant on 0117 944 2165

Bridge Tuition 07837300073 tc.stygall@gmail.com

Bristol Philatelic Society 0117 956 7853

Bristol & Clifton Dickens Society 0117 927 9875 www.dickens-society.org.uk

Bristol Shambhala Meditation Group bristol.shambhala.info Bristol Shiplovers Society www.bristolshiplovers.co.uk

70

Local food tour and tasting With Josh Eggleton

Walking with reindeers With Avon Valley Bushcraft & forWildlife beginners Adventure Park

in rural Somerset

Ceramics taster morning With Trylla

Morph model-making for families With Aardman Animations

Say yuup to supporting independent local businesses this festive season

Book or gift local experiences now on yuup.co Explore yuup.co to find over 130 experiences in Bristol that are Covid safe and following the latest government guidelines

71

WHAT’S ON & COMMUNITY NEWS Bristol U3A: Have you reached a point in your life where you have fewer responsibilities and more time for yourself? Would you like to take part in activities where you can share skills, abilities or hobbies whilst having fun and making new friends? Why not become a member and find an interest group to join. Go to www.bristolu3a.org. uk for details. We, at Bristol U3A, are still very active and ‘meeting’ despite the lockdown.

Friends of the Downs & Avon Gorge www.friendsofthedowns.org Friends of Old Sneed Park Nature Reserve www.spnaturereserve.com Next working party will be held on January 23rd, 10am to 12 noon. All volunteers must reserve a place please email. fospnr@gmail.com. Please bring your own tools and refreshments’ All welcome. For more details please visit www. oldsneedparknaturereserve.org.

Carers Support Centre 0117 965 2200 www.carerssupportcentre.org.uk

Frisbee Club North Bristol Ultimate on Facebook jake.f.waller@gmail.com.

City Voices Bristol www.cityvoicesbristol.org

Happy Days Memory Café Tony on 0117 968 1002

Civil Service Retirement Fellowship Tony McKenna on 0117 950 2059

Henbury ‘Blaise’ Womens’ Institute 0117 962 9400

Clifton Rotary Club www.cliftonrotary.org secretary@cliftonrotary.org

Henbury Singers Maggie Cavanna 0117 973 4794 secretary@henburysingers.org

The Clifton Singers contact@cliftonsingers.co.uk www.cliftonsingers.co.uk

Henleaze (Evening) Townswomen’s Guild Shirley on 0117 962 2243

Country Market in WoT Sue Sills on 0117 962 8306.

Henleaze Bowling Club Tom Logan on 0117 962 1669 hbcsec@henleazebowlingclub.org.uk

Dancercise in Sea Mills Anna on 07852 988 895

Henleaze Garden Club Brian Dury 0117 9621227 www.henleazegardenclub.com

Discussion Group Bob Broomfield on 0117 962 1061 Fielder Club gloriasimmonds@hotmail.co.uk

Henleaze Flower Club Kath on 01454 412087 Marg on 0117 9075724

Filtones Choir www.thefiltones.weebly.com

Henleaze Ladies’ Choir Jean on 0117 9624466 Jane on 07752 332278

Friendly Bridge SW Stoke Bishop friendlybridgesw.org.uk

Henleaze Singing for the Brain Sophia Simlat on 0117 961 0693 bristol@alzheimers.org.uk

Friends of Welsh National Opera will sadly not be able to resume our monthly meetings at Redmaids School until later this year. We look forward to welcoming you soon. Look out for further news here or contact Melanie David at melaniejdavid@btinternet.com or on 01934 842014 for more information.

Henleaze St Peters Keep Fit Class Louisa on 07725 091 429

72

H & P Aerials

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73

20/05/2020 17:42:23

WHAT’S ON & COMMUNITY NEWS Instep Club for Widows and Widowers Donna on 01275 832 676 Wilma on 0117 962 8895

Pat-a-Cake Toddlers Group Alison on 0117 962 9715 People of Note Community Choir www.peopleofnote.co.uk peopleofnote@btinternet.com

Karate Classes Trevor on 07921 917 758 Keep Fit in WoT Louisa on 0772 509 1429

Pilates classes Leanne on 07817 189 474 www.mindbodypilates.org

Keep Fit classes Eileen Scott on 07969 929 733 www.keepfit.org.uk

Redland Green Bowls Club redlandgreenbowls.webs.com

Keep Fit for Living Gill Porter on 01275 877 131.

REMAP custom aids for the disabled 0117 329 5183 www.bristol.remap.org.uk.

Knit & Crochet Café 07561 523 919 brisknitcro@gmail.com

Retired & Senior Volunteer Programme Mina on 07860 669 953 www.RSVP-west.org.uk.

Ladies Badminton, Stoke Bishop Pat on 0117 914 9511

Rotary Club of Bristol www.bristolrotary.org Martina at mpeattie@btopenworld.com

Ladies Badminton, WoT Elizabeth on 0117 968 1759 Lunch Club, WoT Rachel on 0117 330 8503 Alison on 0117 962 9715

Scottish Country Dancing Alison on 0117 968 4036 Caroline on 0117 924 9226 www.rscdsbristol.info

Menopause Matters Tricia Worthington on 07962 892 060 tricia_worthington@msn.com

Sea Mills Garden Club Pat Prior 07779 203 626 Gail Mitchell 0117 968 5350.

Mosaic Singers David Vicary on 0797 346 0994.

Shared Reading Christine Betts 07967 332 821

The National Trust Bristol Centre Janet Stanton on 0117 456 3497 www.ntbristolcentre.btck.co.uk

Shouri Shotoryu Karate Club Shouri Shotoryu karate on Facebook 0117 969 5697

North West Bristol Camera Club Neville at nevwgoodman@mac.com

Simply Social Activity and Social Club www.simplysocial.org.uk 07971 427 766

NotaBene Vocal Ensemble Lisa Smith on 07966 459872 notabenebristol@yahoo.com

Soroptimist International Bristol sibristol@hotmail.co.uk www.sigbi.org/Bristol

Parkinson’s UK www.parkinsonsbristol.com

St Peter’s Ladies Guild Wilma on 0117 962 8895

74

The Effect of COVID on Local Makers - Maria Quinten There has been a lot of talk this year about local makers and traders, and the high-street in general. The health of the high-street has long been discussed, but during the strain of the added closures and restrictions this year, the high-street seems to be on its last legs.

One usually assumes that if you have a shop with a website, you’d be able to order and buy their products online. I spoke to one local highstreet trader who spoke to me in length about the ugliness of that side of trade. I, myself, find trading online sucks up a massive chunk of my time, and I do not work full time running a physical shop alongside this.

I am writing this article as a local artist and maker, and as someone who relies heavily on trading in person to sell my work. Almost all my work is a one-off unique piece, and often photographs very poorly, so selling online can be incredibly time-consuming and often leads to no sales. My normal practice would be to sell at markets, fairs, and arts trails throughout the year, or to place my work in cafés, shops or galleries.

I’m not going to dwell on the time it takes to photograph, edit, upload, write descriptions for, input stock levels and option choices for each individual product you wish to sell, filling in invoices and packaging and sending each item bought. I will say that this is impractical for a lot of independent traders without hiring someone else to do this, and with the current climate, it’s something people just cannot afford.

As you can imagine, since March last year has had to see a lot of change in the way that people like myself – artists, makers, designers, musicians, performers – trade and keep their business going. I’ve spoken to a few other local high-street shop owners, and they are having similar issues selling online.

I will, however, talk about how a lot of companies who do take the time to go through this laborious process actually end up making a loss. Speaking to another small trader, they said that the actual sales that they get online only just cover the costs of running it, with smaller products making a loss because of their free delivery, and the profits left over from the larger items only just cover the printing of their annual catalogue (which they have weighed up is still worth getting printed each year).

So, what is the solution? A lot of local makers and crafters have turned to social media this year, leaning on the ease of creating a post or listing, and the glitzy layouts and easily clickable links.

However, as most online sellers will know, it is easy to get people to look at your post, maybe like it, but it is a completely different thing to get people to engage with it – share it with their friends, maybe even buy something.

So, what can you do?

There are many ways that you can make a huge difference to a local or independent business without much effort on your part.

If you’re looking at buying a product online, don’t be put off by the shipping costs. A small seller just cannot afford to absorb these on every single sale. If it’s too much, consider buying another item to make the shipping costs more balanced, or ask a friend if they would like to also get

75

(continued overleaf)

WHAT’S ON & COMMUNITY NEWS St Peter’s Badminton & Social Club Ann on 0117 9694 882 contactann999q@gmail.com

out in line with current RFU Covid19 guidelines.

No special clothing required other than sensible outdoor footwear or rugby/football boots.

Ashley Down Old Boys rugby club, Lockleaze Combination Ground, Bonnington Walk, BS7 9YU. Follow the signs to club house which is 200 metres past Lockleaze Sports Centre. Contact : mikeandjand@hotmail.com for further details

Stoke Bishop Bridge Club Rene on 0117 968 4334 Stoke Bishop Ladies Choir Carolyn on 0117 279 1409 Maureen on 0117 956 7894

Westbury Aikido Club www.westburyaikidoclub reenee@westburyaikido.club

Stoke Bishop Local History Group sblocalhistory@gmail.com 0117 968 6010

Westbury Folk / Country Dancing Christine on 0117 962 2223

Stoke Bishop Townswomen’s Guild Gay Huggins on 0117 968 5813

Westbury Harriers Running Club www.westburyharriers.co.uk

Stoke Lodge Ramblers has resumed walking in small groups. If you’ve let your fitness slip during lockdown or you are looking for opportunities to walk in the company of other local people, please check our website for dates when walks are offered - stokelodgeramblers.wordpress.com/ home/walks-programme. Walks vary between 3 and 10 miles and are led by club members. The website is updated whenever a walk is offered, and each one will have a different start point and a maximum number of participants, so you MUST book in advance. Phone the Club Secretary on 0117 950 0934 or email lornarenshaw@yahoo. co.uk for more details.

Westbury on Trym Women’s Institute Sue Murphy on 0117 950 2826 Westbury Park Orchestra www.westburyparkorchestra.com contact@westburyparkorchestra.com Westbury Park Women’s Institute westburyparkwi@gmail.com www.westburyparkwi.org.uk Facebook – Westbury Park WI. Westbury Scottish Country Dance Club (Bristol) Cheryl on 0117 401 2416 www.westburyscottish.org.uk

Tai Chi www.taichiworksbristol.co.uk 0117 9424167

Zumba Classes jooljdh@gmail.com - julie737.zumba.com Jools on 07780 385 830.

Tai Chi for over 55’s Selina on 0117 946 6434

Zumba Classes Marie on 0117 963 4104 bristoldancezumba@gmail.com

Trinity Henleaze Ladies Guild Jenny on 0117 962 0108

Please Get In Touch andy@bcmagazines.co.uk www.bcmagazines.co.uk 0117 259 1964 07845 986650 8 Sandyleaze, WoT, BS9 3PY. February magazine deadline - 18th January.

University of the Third Age scrabble group 0117 924 1318 nigel.d.sara@btinternet.com.

Walking Touch Rugby Male and Female over 50s Walking Touch Rugby.

Every Friday 1030 to 1130. A great inclusive sport for all levels of mobility. Come along and enjoy a game along with tea/coffee and a chat at the end.

You will made very welcome. Sessions carried

76

The Effect of COVID on Local Makers - Maria Quinten something from that shop and you can split the shipping costs by ordering together.

impossible for a lot of people.

And finally, try and shop at as many independent shops and businesses as you can, especially during these difficult times.. From experience, I can tell you that there have been so few opportunities over the last 12 months for independent businesses to sell, and those events that have gone ahead have seen limited numbers due to restrictions or general fear. For every item you buy from a small trader, they do a little happy dance and you may have made their entire week.

If you use social media, then there are some super easy ways to support little independent sellers with two clicks.

• •

If you see something you really like, hit the share button. Your friend may like it too, and they might even buy something.

There are a lot of Facebook groups dedicated to showcasing local makers work that you can browse at your leisure. These are to make up for the cancellation of regular and seasonal markets that they would usually be trading at. Sign up to a couple of these and see what these sellers can offer you.

If you can buy just one thing, for whatever occasion (or none!) from a small seller you can make someone else’s year a whole lot better. If everyone does just one gift, we could save our high-street. If everyone does as many as they can, it could be revolutionary.

If a seller doesn’t have something you would like to buy easily available on their website or don’t have an online shop, consider ringing them or dropping them an email. There are a lot of people who usually sell in person who are very new to the online world. Setting up a website or running an online shop is very technically demanding, and

Maria Quintin of Quint’s Prints Website and online shop: www.quintsprints.com Facebook and Instagram: @quintsprints

Westbury on Trym Village Show 2021

stalls and attractions, including the Marshfield Brass Band and Storm Force 10 sea shanty group have already been booked. Funds raised are donated to the running of the Village Hall, so will be particularly welcome after this last difficult year.

Our show has been running since 1977 after the success of a flower arranging completion.

It was originally called the Westbury on Trim Flower Show but in 2013 was renamed in order to reflect the wider scope of the show.

New committee members are always welcome.

They are a friendly bunch of people who meet once a month, currently via Zoom, to plan the show.

Like so many other events, the 2020 show had to be cancelled; however following the development of new anti-Covid vaccines, members of the Village Show Committee are looking forward with optimism and hope and are already making plans for this popular community event to resume this year. The theme will be ‘Vision 21’ - very pertinent when you consider the insights that 2020 provided!

The website has been completely revamped. It is well worth visiting as it gives a lovely flavour of some of the past shows, as well as the delights to come!

The printed schedule will be available from local shops from Spring onwards. In the meantime, for further information or to contact the committee, please visit the website www.wotvs.co.uk or visit the Facebook page Westbury on Trim Village Show.

As in the past, it will take place in the Westbury on Trim Village Hall, on Saturday 4th September. The entry classes will cover garden produce, baking, hobbies and crafts. There will be special classes for children. A number of

77

INDEX OF ADVERTISERS Appliance Repairs

AASP Domestics

Arts & Crafts

Quints Prints

Auctions & Sales

Clevedon Salerooms Ltd

51 75

Financial Advice

63

Jaunty Paws Ltd

Harold Stephens

33

Physiotherapy

Fitness Training

BS9 Fitness

21

Footcare

Treatment Collective

50 20

53

Sara Lewis

51

53

Brunel Funeral Directors R Davies & Son Funeral Directors

A & S Property Services

23

Furniture

Ace Property Refurbishment

50

Bathrooms & Wetrooms Blinds & Shutters

Just Shutters

Building Services

Garcia Building Services

8

Janson Osman

16

L & P Brailsford

27

Business Support

Interim Business Services

Carpets & Floorings

11

Bristol Carpet & Flooring Group

67

Conran Carpets Ltd

43

Chimney Sweeps

Shaun Doughton

Cleaning Services

Bonne Fresh Clean

51 6

Home Gleamers

24

Oven Gleamers

48

Computer Services

FAB ‐ IT Rescue

66

IT HomeHelp

22

Counselling

Jonathan's Voice

Cycle Services

Boing Bicycles

Drum Tuition

Scott Hammond

Electrical Services

Daley Electrical Services Ltd Lek‐Trix MB Electrical Services

Estate & Letting Agents

Howard Estate Agents

Estate Agents

Maggs & Allen

Fencing

42 49 59 29 9 27 46 80

Funeral Services

Pilates

Embracing Pilates

Bristol Foot Clinic

Paul Whittaker Bathrooms & Wetrooms

Pet Sitting & Walking

Grosvenor Consultancy

Plastering

39 6 4

A & P Plastering

69

Artform Plastering

56

32

JSH Plastering

59

37

McCall Plastering

24

Plumbing

Sofa Magic

5, 69

A & D Plumbing Services

69

Sofa Magic

69

S & P Plumbing Services

73

Garage Doors

Up & Over Doors

Garden Design

Cathy Lewis

Garden Maintenance

Relaxation

52

Bristol Breathwork

Residential Care

36

Bristol Care Homes

Schools

7 17

Barlows

51

Badminton School

19

Blossom Garden Services

39

Bristol Steiner School

14

4

Redmaids High School

Declan McManus Graham Cook

Hairdressing

Evans Hair Design

Handyman Services

Tony Anderson

59

St Bonaventure's

48

AMD Solicitors

Solicitors

Corfield Solicitors

50

6 55 25 2

Devereux & Co

14

Lyons Solicitors

61

John Presland

56

Simpson Solicitors

60

Peter Harris

51

Veale Wasbrough Vizards

34

S & P Plumbing Services

73

Stairlifts

Heating & Gas

Home Care Services

Thornbury Lift Services Ltd

Tiling

12

Home Instead

13

Premier Homecare

40

Paul Lindo

15

Crest Tree Services Ltd

37

Neville Tree Services

53

31

TV Aerials

Hypnotherapy

Finding the Amazing

Jewellery & Gifts

Kemps Jewellers

Massage

Fraser Sports Massage Heather Drewe

Osteopaths

Greenway Osteopaths

Painting & Decorating

15, 45 50 45

Darren the Decorator

23

Julius Rugg

11 39

AM Fencing

73

Sarah's Decorating Services

EC Fencing

56

Top Notch

4

Tree Services

H and P Aerials

Upholstery & Soft Furnishings

CAP

Nice Things for Nice Homes

Waste & Rubbish

59

73 4 39

Man & Van

59

WasteKing

27

Window Cleaning

Aqua‐Tec

Windows & Doors

If you are kind enough to use the services of any of these businesses please tell them you saw their advert in The Bristol Nine. If they continue to advertise the magazine will continue to drop through your78 letterbox each month. Many thanks

73

Do you want your business to stand out from all the rest?

They might all be on every online platform going, but what about those potential customers who “don’t do digital”?

There are lots of them here in BS9. Get in front of them with a real hard copy advert in a real hard copy magazine

Make print part of your marketing mix.

ZI N E MAGA EI G H T SI X + IS TO L RK , RY PA 67 TH E BR ST BU D SS WE DL AN - ISS UE H AC RO ON AN D RE MO NT IFT AU EA CH NO RT H CL FR EE WN , ER ED GS DO DE LIV AM , KIN CO TH

20 20 GU ST

1

BS9

The B r Issue istol Nine Maga 163 zine Ma

12,500 rch copies deli vered free 2 0 2 0 Westbur y on Trym across Hen , Sea Mill Stoke Bish leaze, s, Coombe op and Sneyd Park Dingle,

In This Issu (page 40), e - Supper at 50), look ethical investmthe Indian Kitc ing hen (pag (page 81), back fondly ent (page 48), e 21), Cha at Wham!

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Advertise your local business in the BS9 and the BS6+8 Magazines Reach 24,000 homes and businesses in Henleaze, Westbury on Trym, Stoke Bishop, Redland, Coombe Dingle, Cotham, Sea Mills, Clifton, Kingsdown, Westbury Park and Sneyd Park

For more information please contact Andy on 0117 259 1964 or 07845 986650 Or email andy@bcmagazines.co.uk - www.bcmagazines.co.uk 79

SO LD

SO LD

SO LD

SO LD

THINKING OFMOVING? MOVING? THINKING OF

SO LD

SO LD

SO LD

e a free, honest

SO LD

IfIfyou are looking toor sell orthis rent, thispersonal is your invitation personaltoinvitation to honest you’re looking to sell rent, is your receive a free, receive an honest and informal valuation of your property with our local and informal valuation of your property with our local experienced sales teams. experienced sales teams.

All of our staff have a wealth of knowledge All of our staff have a wealth of knowledge of the local area and would be delighted to of the local area and would be delighted to spend time discussing a spend time discussing a marketing package best suited to you. Call us now! marketing package best suited to you. Call us now!

es teams.

be delighted to Don’t just take our word for it… now!

Here are some comments from recent customers!

“Exc e ll e nt s e r vic e, ve ry house myamum’s Dear James, I pos am it writing to thank youh e lpfu l, e f w selling ive to a nd eree nt te st ta mo We fici si e h - tyour team me fees, t he e tand ho n’ y g ld st in “Be ou rs for n, helping us w to achieve We foeranu & Alle l wit h” ided was d wit h to pa t oy d pl e a su re Maggs ’veofha d am at ith were polite s elli ng exap esuccessful men rie nc e we sale our family home. The te rvice prov reco “Tmhe and the se was much e dealt w te d ere w mit Th . ne com advice al and ry help yo you provided this, which Ve from en our on er ggs & Allprofessi evMa Mrs Wardrop g en t. sensitive to a n es t a te a to ful and lp nd very first he meeting was invaluable, ha and d d. an a nd grneeaont enmeo Ms Witch appreciate . ss ion a l te a m, have be s so concerns a nd pro feyour confidence in stating that we would was alway “S t a f tions or rtesto e res t s f w e re sta y qu r int m e, ou an fro in eb er H ed achieve the price we ct were hoping a sw for, to p ro f e s an a ll t im on go s io n a l yoesu nd her t h e y helped us uld entink T ha e s, y e rus t t h eir ishia.l m at spec Afin t m a in ut (I wo maket the decision to go with and beyo p e rs o n ove th d t hro u ghoyourselves. abng t a in e d an t e g en in w a I ov would ki have no hesitation l in )” ho m wfor ma t ouch a sa l es ng re hi u t yt fu er on t ev – We f w e re li er keep so ju dg e m en recommending you and your team to any e lt w e b toce Mrs Prat sten e jopro sshappy.smMoo r &th d t o” ne yo future prospective clients. er ev M rs M ing a Mr P Ban cro ft W ri gh t and trouble free” complet “M ag gs & Mr & Mrs Tully help in ty Al len so ld for your r proper u ou yo on k n le an iso my pr op er ty Th Mr P Dav are t sa wi th in 6 id. We d efficien ov C an of dy ok spee we ek s of pu t I didn’t shop aro lenges u to e yokie , und. James sold tin g it the chal mees,timVic Jar th me ear despite the property in ful fo d the on th e ma rk et rate g“D ty an 2009 and I wa ly er ar op ul k pr ic an an r , Thus up to go t part y impressed ser atI just wanted informed thank you againd for yous ver valxue&ouKe rrike witvice, Excellent h him.keeping th eto as pt telyMa I noted James ki ng pr ice ag you you to accura ich for r hahrd ase. was sti for me. It wasree a d. further than you selling my property ll withand going all ith wh stage each wyou Maggs and purc y le Ke & Allen and so nc pt sa ue r th eq e ou fr bu had th yer oue rfor The s bo vice. no bit of a marathon but we got there ser on kin customer rea with ng -s ide son to shop aro diwo rk an d tema would expect to gHeb ar l g fu re und un . Joe til wein particular date has an exc rly Fiona ma na ge d for very gra y ha in the end. Thanks oper”ties particula pleasant ellentvery pren! were rpp staff empat to ge t e also hetic, reassuring fin ils of ou mo ve de taall We wer so me wh erepatience icate and calm and s to keep the your professionalism, teleph overonebackward to ng the commun who bent ri bu manner and to be y ab ng em ou ui m Hebe’s re energy & ent contin good advice. & hs Allen definitely t twMaggs o mo nt ell as happy & Mr s Bye tt wMr purchase r hus iasm with as are grevisits. la te r” us at! u. d d an ank yo deserved the sale! Best wishes. rs Howar h us. Th Mr & M Ms Rothwell Mr Pu zey well wit Mr White Mr Bickerton

Maggs + Allen | 60 Northumbria Drive | Henleaze | Bristol | BS9 4HW t: 0117 949 9000 | e: agency@maggsandallen.co.uk | www.maggsandallen.co.uk 80