The Bristol Nine Magazine - November 2021 by Andy Fraser

THE BRISTOL NINE MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2021 - ISSUE 181 12,500 COPIES DELIVERED FREE EACH MONTH ACROSS STOKE BISHOP, HENLEAZE, COOMBE DINGLE, SEA MILLS, WESTBURY ON TRYM AND SNEYD PARK

In This Issue - Elvis will be in the building (page 4), discovering Paradise Bottom (page 15) Quiz Time (page 21), children's puzzles (page 34), facial pampering (page 42), balsam bashing (page 54) the rise of the influencer (page 58), underground Bristol (page 65), plus all the usual stuff and lots of real events,

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.

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Celebrating The Golden Anniversary of Elvis’ Famed Vegas Spectaculars This time, 50 years ago, Elvis Presley was holding court at the Hilton International Hotel in Las Vegas performing an incredible 57 shows in the space of less than a month. Variety Magazine reported: “Moded in white and black and gold appliqué, Presley tours his tune route in fine style”. Touring stage show A Vision of Elvis takes theatregoers back to these legendary concerts – and in fine style. Starring Rob Kingsley – winner of the Grand European Champion and Best Vegas Elvis at Europe’s largest Elvis competition. The production has also seen him winner of the National Tribute Music Awards as the “Uk’s No1 Official Elvis Show” and also the “UK’s overall No1 Best Male Tribute Act”. Elvis photographer, tour manager and longtime friend, Ed Bonja says of Rob: “He sings like Elvis, but most importantly, he seems to capture the very soul of Elvis – his charisma, his gestures – hell he even walks like Elvis!” Rob says: “In this new sensational show theatregoers will experience an epic audiovisual journey through time like you’ve never seen before. Featuring the classic hits from the Timex Show, The Movie Years and also the ‘1968 Comeback Special’ with the finale being the electrifying Concert Years taking in all the million-sellers of a hit packed career: Heartbreak Hotel, Blue Suede Shoes, Hound Dog, Jailhouse Rock, All Shook Up, In the Ghetto, Suspicious Minds, American Trilogy and many more. 4

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THE EDITOR’S SMALL PIECE

CAP

Hello there, and welcome to your November magazine. I hope as many of you as possible are as well as possible, and are beginning to look forward to the festive period a little more than at this time last year.

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This month something else planned, but failing to live up to high hopes, results in me having to apologise here - for there is no recipe this month. When cooking I tend to make the recipes up - in my mind it makes things more fun and allows me to knock out a dish using, by and large, what's already in the fridge / cupboards. The first step to this is to put the "recipe" to what has become known in this house as the "Burnley Salad Test". This involves putting the two main ingredients I'm planning to use into Google together (so "Marmite" and "Feta" for example, or "Pork" and "Pistachio") and seeing what comes up. If a recipe pops up using those two ingredients it means that at least one other person on this planet thinks the two go together, and so it is safe to proceed with what I have in mind. This month my two chosen foods passed the Burnley Salad Test so cooking commenced. Sadly the resulting dish, while aesthetically pleasing, was less than a success from a taste perspective, and certainly not worth sharing. I'll not tell you what it was, suffice to say that I've concluded that cooking with halloumi takes a little more thought than I'd anticipated.

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Let's hope your month is more of a success, and we'll be back - with a cast iron recipe - next month. Cheers, Andy

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

Deadline for the December issue - Friday 12th November

USEFUL INFORMATION A revamped and updated set of contacts this month, including some new numbers, website details and what I believe are the latest number plate dates for accessing the Waste Recycling Centre at Avonmouth. If you think of any other useful contacts that should be listed here on a regular basis do please let me know - andy@bcmagazines.co.uk Helplines and Emergency Services National Emergency Number 999 or 112 Bristol Citizens Advice 03444 111 444 bristolcab.org.uk Gas Emergencies 0800 111 999 britishgas.co.uk Electricity Helpline 105 nationalgrideso.com / westernpower.co.uk Water Emergencies 0845 702 3797 bristolwater.co.uk / wessexwater.co.uk Avon & Somerset Police non emergencies 101 avonandsomerset.police.uk Crimestoppers 0800 555 111 crimestoppers-uk.org Southmead Hospital 0117 950 5050 nbt.nhs.uk BRI / Children’s Hospital 0117 923 0000 uhbristol.nhs.uk NHS non-emergency 111 111.nhs.uk Bristol Blood Donation 0300 123 23 23 blood.co.uk The Samaritans 116 123 samaritans.org Alcoholics Anonymous 0800 9177 650 alcoholics-anonymous.org.uk ChildLine 0800 11 11 childline.org.uk WE Care Home Improvements 0300 323 0700 wecr.org.uk National Rail Enquiries 03457 48 49 50 nationalrail.co.uk Traveline 0871 200 22 33 traveline.info First Bus 0345 646 0707 firstbus.co.uk/bristol-bath-and-west Postal Services WoT Post Office (in Costcutter on Canford Lane) - Mon-Sat 8am - 7pm, Sun 8.30am - 1.30pm 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 PO (in the Welcome store) - 7.00am to 8.00pm Mon to Sat, 7.00am to 5.00pm Sun Late Post - late post box at the main Post Office sorting depot on the A38 at Filton. Late post is at 7pm. Waste & Recycling If you are planning to visit the Recycling Centre at Avonmouth do check the Bristol Waste website bristolwastecompany.co.uk - first as they are currently running alternate access days depending on the last number of your car registration. Vehicles ending in an even number (0, 2, 4, 6 or 8) can visit on 27, 29 and 31 October and 2, 4, 6, 8 , 10, 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 22, 24, 26, 28 and 30 November. Vehicles ending in an odd number (1, 3, 5, 7 or 9) can visit on 28 and 30 October, and 1, 3, 5, 7, 9, 11, 13, 15, 17, 19, 21, 23, 25, 27 and 29 November. You must take proof of your identity / address to use the site. The site has now switched to winter opening hours - 8am to 4.15pm 7 days a week. 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, Stapleton Road and Lawrence Hill) and out to Severn Beach via Shirehampton and Avonmouth. Please check gwr.com for comprehensive up to date advice or call 03457 000 125 (09:00-17:00, 7 days a week) - or download the National Rail or GWR apps for the most reliable current information.

USEFUL INFORMATION Local Churches St Mary Magdalene, Stoke Bishop WoT Methodist Church WoT Baptist Church, Reedley Rd WoT Holy Trinity Parish Church Sacred Heart Catholic Church, WoT St Peter’s Church, Henleaze Highgrove Church, Sea Mills Trinity-Henleaze URC The Community Church, WoT St Edyth’s Church, Sea Mills

stmarysb.org.uk 0117 968 7449 westburyontrymmethodistchurch.org.uk 0117 962 2930 westburybaptist.org.uk 0117 962 9990 westbury-parish-church.org.uk 0117 950 8644 sacredheartchurch.co.uk 0117 962 0676 stpetershenleaze.org 0117 962 4524 highgrove.church 07966028046 trinityhenleazeurc.org.uk 0117 962 3431 the-community-church.net 0117 946 6807 stedyths.org.uk 0117 968 6965

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. Libraries - latest opening times Henleaze Library is now open 11am to 5pm Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, 1pm to 7pm Wednesday and Friday, and 10am to 5pm Saturday. Sea Mills Library is now open 10am to 2pm Monday and Tuesday, 1pm to 5pm Wednesday and Thursday, and 10am to 3pm Friday and Saturday. Westbury on Trym Library is now open 2pm to 7pm on Monday and 11am to 4pm Tuesday to Saturday.

THIS BS9 LIFE - DUNCAN HASKELL coffers ahead of Christmas, sell some of the potentially more lucrative items online.

You know you rank high on the Sentimentality Scale when you form attachments to specific plastic carrier bags, either due to the design or a fond memory of a shopping trip that resulted in finding clothes I actually like. My conversion to the bag for life long complete, these other carriers now sit neatly folded under the stairs enjoying retirement, their work long done.

We have actually attempted this before. Our last attempt took place on GumTree but was scuppered by a strong commitment to order – often left waiting for the first person who showed some casual interest in one of our items to confirm whether or not they wanted to complete the transaction while other potentially genuine buyers fell by the wayside. That said, whether online or in person (even at the cost of several sales), you’ve got to respect a queue. Perhaps it was just the excuse to abort I was looking for, allowing old friends to return to the comfort of their shelves/ cupboards/drawers.

I even once convinced a friend to take a day out of their holiday on the Amalfi Coast in order to track down an old bookshop in Sorrento where they could purchase an exact replica of a particularly treasured bookmark for me (thanks again Sue). I think the original was dropped somewhere between terminals in Amsterdam Airport, the price you pay for doing something as stupid as using a favourite bookmark for marking books.

This time, there’s no going back. The house turned into a temporary photographic studio, albeit one where many energy saving bulbs just about provide the required amount of light, and items spritzed, scrubbed and polished like never before, they’re now proudly listed on EBay awaiting the rush of interest and bids that will no doubt be attracted by my once favourite umbrella. It makes you wonder why I’m selling it in the first place – where’s the delist button?

That said, I am slowly getting better at letting go and now only keep birthday/Christmas cards if they are for a particularly important year, contain a very heartfelt or funny message, are accompanied by a drawing from a budding young artist or the sender has an especially nice signature. Anyway, with that in mind, I’m sure you can imagine the recent emotional turmoil that accompanied our decision to do a big clean out, give what we could to St Peter’s Hospice and, in need of a little extra cash to boost the

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DISCOVERING PARADISE BOTTOM other two which are Forestry Commission run and charge (£2 for 2 hours, contactless). Park at either of these two carparks which are right on the edge of thre woods.

As autumn reaches its peak, what could be better than walking through an English woodland? One that is far enough away to feel like an adventure but close enough to home not to be an expedition. Where you can see BS9 but probably won't see anyone from there. Indeed where you may not see anyone at all. Fancy that? If so, come with me to Paradise Bottom.

Right, now it's time to go - and you have a choice of two walk descriptions, depending on how much detail you want. Simple instructions. Park. Follow signposts. Walk. Enjoy. Go home. The walks throughout Leigh Woods are very well signposted, so you can just follow your chosen path without fear of getting seriously lost.

Leigh Woods, set on the hilltop on t'other side of the Clifton Suspension Bridge, is popular with families, cyclists, runners, dog walkers and (currently) grazing cows - a National Trust site where the walks around Stokeleigh Camp and the suspension bridge viewpoint are well known and popular. Venture a little further north though, away from the bridge, and you may have the place to yourself. The walk will take you an hour or two, depending on a couple of options and how much you linger. Right, let's explore.

More descriptive walk. From the carpark follow the tarmac and then gravel path downhill, and follow the signs to Paradise Bottom. You will basically stay on this track all the way. Soon you will pass on your left the first and, unless you get lost, the only building you will see close up on the whole route - Oak Wood Lodge. Carry on and go straight over at the wide-open path crossroads, by the electricity transformer up in the tree, continuing gently downhill, meandering through woods comprising a wide range of native trees - oak, beech, sweet chestnut, cedar and more. If you choose a sunny day it will be especially beautiful at this time of year, and if you have small children there is great fun to be had trying to catch the leaves falling en-masse.

This walk isn't flat, but isn't difficult - gentle inclines and declines are your companion as you walk, but aside from a short steepish descent and hill back up to the main path, that will get the heart going (and which can be skipped) there isn't anything to make the route too much of a challenge. The paths are well made up and should be fine for a motability scooter, but the surface is mostly loose gravel so isn't really suitable for buggies. There are no refreshments en-route (that I found) so maybe bring a flask or a picnic, and do go to the loo before you set out. And just a word of common sense caution - the walk is entirely through unlit woodland, and increasingly secluded as you head further away from the carpark so it's not busy and you might want to bring a friend, a dog, a phone. The walk starts on Coronation Avenue - so drive over the suspension bridge, right at the lights opposite the Ashton Court gatehouse towards Abbots Leigh, straight on at the Beggar Bush lights and 200 yards on, right through the stone gateway. It's well signposted. Drive down the avenue and you will encounter, in turn, three carparks - the first one is free to National Trust members but I headed down 400 yards to the 15

DISCOVERING PARADISE BOTTOM walk coincides with a high tide on the Avon, is the fabulous view up and down and across the river, a view that gives bearings to the walk as you can see straight over to the Old Sneed Park Nature Reserve on the opposite bank, and St Mary's church beyond. Now I'm not a gambling man - I usually just generously slip the bookies a few quid on Grand National day - but I'd put a few shillings on there being 99% of people reading this never having had this exact view. I saw no-one on the grotto path, there or back.

Just when you think you might have gone wrong (don't worry, you won't have done) you will start to see signs of the "water features" that reside in the woods here, part of the work that Humphry Repton did in the 18th century to landscape the area that sits just behind Leigh Court. A trickle of water emerging from the banks of the woods, and then an ornamental pond, covered with green weed. There's a bench here overlooking the pond - coffee time perhaps. Remain on the path that bears right up a short slope and you will emerge at Paradise Bottom, a small open enclosure with green metal bollards.

Your third choice from Paradise Bottom is to head off right, alongside the right hand (uphill) side of the black metal railings, on what turns into a well-kept grass path into a part of the arboreal landscape dominated by pines and redwoods.

Now you have a three choices. If that's enough for you, you can turn around and head back the way you came - essentially making this a linear walk and thereby avoiding the steep section mentioned earlier. If you fancy extending your walk however then look for the sign that points to "The Grotto", which is maybe half a mile further on. Now I did the grotto walk, and let's say it was in some ways not unlike going to watch City or Rovers this season - a bit of an effort for very little reward. The grotto itself is underwhelming. What does make the detour worthwhile however, especially if your

Soon the grass path will start to narrow and become less well made, but stick on it until you reach a wooden bench alongside some narrow wooden steps that take you downhill. Take these, and at the bottom of the steps bear right and follow the steep path down with hairpin bend that brings you out alongside another of Repton's ornamental ponds. Cross the pond on the obvious embankment, bearing right as the path begins to climb back up the other side of the valley. You will pass a smaller third pool on your right as you head uphill on the woodland track, and shortly you will reach a wooden swing gate that brings you back out onto the main path you walked down earlier. Turn left, and head gently uphill, staying on the path until you get back to the car park. 16

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Senior Snippets Future-proof your career John Moore of Home Instead Bristol North believes that caring is a ‘job for the future’, urging people to come onboard as he pledges to increase the number of caregivers to provide support in the local community. John says that jobs in his sector are future-proof, referring to the resilience of care work against a backdrop of sectors such as retail and travel that have been so badly impacted by the pandemic. With an ageing population, home care, on the other hand, has seen a huge increase in demand, so much so that there is a shortage of caregivers. The UK has an ageing population with over 14.28 million baby boomers who are coming into older age over the next few years. The millennial generation follows a close second at 14.22 million people. At the same time we are living longer. Commenting, John Moore said, we have plenty to offer people interested in joining our team. Our relationship-focused approach to care means that carers and clients can really form a bond, and it’s so rewarding to see the difference the time together makes. The hours carers work can be arranged around their existing commitments, making it a role that offers the perfect work/life balance.

Anyone interested in ﬁnding out more is very welcome to come along to our Open Day on Thursday 11th November, 11am - 2pm at The Eastﬁeld Inn, Henleaze Road BS9 4NQ. If you would like more information or you would like to speak to someone at Home Instead about our service, please do get in touch. Telephone 0117 435 0063 or email john.moore@homeinstead.co.uk

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QUIZ TIME The USA

Politics

2. 3. 4. 5.

In which US state was the 2021 Ryder Cup played? Name the four presidents who appear on Mount Rushmore. Devil’s Tower in Wyoming was central to which Stephen Spielberg film? The highway Route 66 links which two US cities? Name the three largest US cities by population.

2. 3. 4.

Russia 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Who was Russian president at the time of the Chernobyl nuclear accident? With which country does Russia have the longest land border? Describe the old Soviet Union / USSR flag. Who was the last Russian emperor and from which dynasty was he / she? Name the three largest Russian cities, by population.

Geography

Biscuits

2. 3. 4. 5.

Who was Margaret Thatcher’s first Chancellor of the Exchequer? William Hague launched a “Save the ......” what as a part of his General Election campaign, and in which year? Lib Dem leader Sir Ed Davey held which post in the 2010 Conservative / Lib Dem coalition? Who was Prime Minister when a) man first set foot on the moon, b) the start of World War 1, and c) London was awarded the 2012 Olympics? Name these former politicians.

Which has the largest surface area - a Jacobs Cream Cracker or a McVities Digestive? “If you like a lot of chocolate on your biscuit...” was the advertising slogan for which brand? “Squashed fly” biscuits are better known by what name, and who or what were they named after? Who made the original Pink Wafer biscuit? Name these biscuits (names obscured!)

3. 4. 5.

In which continent or continents would you find the Great Rift Valley? Which is Europe’s only double landlocked country (i.e. surrounded by countries that themselves are landlocked)? Name the county towns of a) Worcestershire, b) Lancashire, and c) Cambridgeshire. What were the two previous names of the city of Istanbul? Measured above sea level, which is the worlds highest capital city?

Blue Things 1.

What is reportedly the UK’s biggest ever selling 12 inch single? 2. Name Blue Peter’s first female presenter, and its longest serving female presenter. 3. Blue John comes from Castleton in 21

(continued overleaf)

QUIZ TIME Derbyshire. Who or what is it? 4. Who directed the film Blue Velvet in 1986? 5. What percentage of the world’s population have blue eyes? Pot Luck 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

In terms of the COP26 conference, what does COP stand for? The Charge of the Light Brigade took place in which country, and in which war? Which national museum would you find in Greenwich, London? Which European capital cities come first and last alphabetically, and which countries are they the capital of? What is the name of the Queen’s youngest great grandchild?

3. Which major London building was largely destroyed by fire in 1834? 4. Elvis Presley died in what year, and how old was he? 5. The Battle of Little Big Horn is also known by what other common name? Where Am I?

Sport 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Which rugby union team plays at Welford Road Who recently won both cycling gold at Tokyo, and BBC’s Masterchef? On a standard dartboard which number lies between 6 and 15? Which rally driver has won the World Rally Championship most times? Who did Emma Radacanu beat in the US Open tennis final?

History Who Am I?

1. In what year did the Berlin Wall fall? 2. Name the five Tudor monarchs.

(answers on page 70)

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READERS’ REQUESTS AND RESEARCH Last month we ran a query from Keith Balson, seeking to find out if old rubble found in his Bramble Drive garden was because the area was a dumping ground for buildings demolished in the Second World War German bombings of central Bristol. I'm pleased to say Keith that I have received some feedback from a lady living in the nearby Knoll Hill flats confirming that, to her knowledge, WW2 city rubble was not only deposited in that area of Bramble Drive but also under White’s Paddock and Bennett’s Patch in the Avon Wildlife fields adjacent to the Portway. I will contact Avon Wildlife and also the Friends of Bishop Knoll Woods to see if they can verify / add to the response. I've also had another kind response from a reader on this that I need to follow up, so I'll report back more in the December issue. Not so much research, more of a request from a reader to pass on some thanks. Local resident Harry White has been in touch

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wanting to express his gratitude to not one, not two but three young men he calls his Westbury Samaritans. With limited mobility Harry, who uses a wheelchair, and his good lady wife were struggling with the slopes and gradients and general traffic in the village recently (mid October), trying to get from the GP's carpark onto Westbury Hill, down to the war memorial roundabout and on to their Canford Lane bus stop. To their surprise and delight three complete strangers took it in turns to help Harry and his wife get to their destination. Harry just wants, if possible, the three kind souls concerned to be aware of how much their help was appreciated. Finally, an invitation to all readers. Are you searching for information? Trying to track something or someone down? Think sombody might know the answer to something that’s puzzling you? Get in touch and we’ll see if anyone knows the answer for you.

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BRAILSFORD LIGHTS CHRISTMAS DISPLAY IN BRENTRY

Tackling Climate Change In Our Community: Cllr Henry Michallat was delighted to attend a climate information event at Sea Mills Methodist Church organised by Sea Mills and Coombe Dingle Climate Action Group. It was also great to see the local group organise a large scale litter, where 9 huge bags of litter were collected! Well done to all involved! Green Bin Collections ‘Slowly’ Resume: Councillors John Goulandris & Henry Michallat are pleased to report that green bin collections have resumed, albeit slowly. Crews will be working over the weekends to ensure the backlog is cleared. A4018 Update: Readers will remember the previous A4018 consultation, which proved to be such a fiasco that it was abandoned. Following a meeting with the WECA Mayor, we are aware that a further consultation is planned shortly and is likely to contain equally crazy ideas. Watch this space for further information. Stoke Lodge Update: Unfortunately, there is still no Council response and we await details of the next steps in the TVG process. John & Henry will of course update readers in due course. Your comments, views and questions welcomed - these are our contact details:-

Cllr John Goulandris - Email: cllr.john.goulandris@bristol.gov.uk

Like us on Facebook to keep up with news & views

Cllr Henry Michallat - Email: cllr.henry.michallat@bristol.gov.uk

https://www.facebook.com/stokebishopconservatives/

City Hall, College Green, Bristol, BS1 5TR

Tel: 0117 922 2227

Bristol Steiner School is an independent day school for children from the age of 3 to 11 years.

BRISTOL STEINER SCHOOL Independent Day School for Children

Fundamental to the Steiner Waldorf philosophy is the belief in a child-centred, relational approach to learning and a commitment to promoting the development of the whole child. This is embraced and cherished throughout all aspects of life at school, through lived values rooted in the delivery of contextual learning, with true meaning and purpose. Small class sizes promote the wellbeing and self-belief of each child. There is an authentic and tangible sense of community and culture that cultivates excellence, within a safe environment, in which the children can be curious. Opportunities to explore are embedded throughout the curriculum and this discretely encourages independence, resilience and respect.

Where education is a journey, not a race Contact Reception to book a personalised meeting 0117 933 9990 reception@bristolsteinerschool.org www.bristolsteinerschool.org

Language and oracy play an important part in school life and children participate in activities that enhance this. Mathematics is taught in class and then used across the curriculum in woodwork, handwork and form drawing. Pupils learn science in class and through outdoor learning in the school garden. Eurythmy is an expressive artform that combines language, music and movement. Physical education, swimming, music and forest school complement the diverse curriculum. Head Teacher Nicola Forder believes that it is these guiding principles, that provide the time and space to allow each child to grow and develop an appreciation of themselves and a genuine love of learning, as they journey through the school. New pupils are accepted throughout the academic year. For more information, contact: Contact: Vishwa Wijedasa Telephone: 0117 933 9990 Email: vishwawijedasa@bristolsteinerschool.org Website: www.bristolsteinerschool.org 27

FINANCE MATTERS - PHIL JAMES, GROSVENOR CONSULTANCY COP 26: Investing for a future

National Savings and early indications are that these will have 3-year terms. It will be interesting to see what the rate of interest on the new Green Bonds will be, particularly their competitiveness with shorter term bonds from banks in an environment of rising interest rates. My feeling is they do not have to provide the best rate of interest, as many will be attracted to the fact that their investment is making a difference and any investment is protected by the Government, so not reliant on the Financial Services Compensation Scheme (FSCS) limit of £85,000.

I am writing this article about 3 weeks before the start of the United Nations Climate Change Conference in Glasgow, referred to as COP26. Not to put too fine a point on it, the climate crises will affect humanity for generations to come both physically and of course financially. We are all participants in it, being affected by it and contributing to it.

Ethical and Environment Social Governance (ESG) investments.

Governments have to be united in making tangible financial commitments to reduce the carbon footprint, to commit that future infrastructure projects around energy production, transportation, the building of hospitals and schools, food production to name just a few, will be delivered in a less harmful way to the planet. Companies in the private sector will be at the heart of innovation to transition our economy and others around the world, to greener economies. We will be affected by this change and we can make a difference to it.

If you have existing investments where you have not specifically stipulated that you would wish them to be invested in a way that is avoiding particular sectors and companies or you recognise that actually going forward, there are good reasons to consider such investments, maybe it is time to consider a review or find out what is available with an advisor. It’s also possible that if you have a form of passive investment within your Pensions or ISA’s, you have a greater exposure to particular sectors, than you may be comfortable with.

How will the transition be financed?

So we will see what transpires from COP26 and whether the Nations are indeed United to tackling this issue. We are fortunate in having a developed economy but should recognise that as a consequence we have contributed to global warming. Irrespective of this we have an obligation to lead the way in terms of tackling this issue.

Significant infrastructure projects require significant investment coming from public finance, taxation; both corporate and personal, corporate investment, loans from banks, investment companies, and private investment from us as individuals. We all play a part and such a significant issue clearly requires that. An alliance called the Glasgow Financial Alliance for Net Zero has been formed and is chaired by Mark Carney, former Governor of the Bank of England. 167 financial organisations are committing to making sure their investments and lending is aligned to net zero objectives.

Phil James Grosvenor Consultancy Ltd. There are advantages and disadvantages to using all of these strategies and they depend on individual circumstances so don’t take action without seeking competent advice Tax rules, rates and allowances are all subject to change. The Financial Conduct Authority does not regulate tax advice and some forms of offshore investments. The value of investments and the income from them can fall as well as rise and you may not get back the full amount you invested.

Some of the huge infrastructure projects will be financed from significant issuance of ‘Green Bonds’ from the Government. These will most likely be made available through 28

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

TALKING PETS WITH VIKING VETS Roundworms in cats and dogs. I recently attended lectures on parasites in pets in the UK, and I want to share some interesting facts with you all. Toxocara canis and cati are the Latin names for roundworms in cats and dogs. These worms have an amazing life cycle. When a dog or cat over 5 weeks is infected, some of the larva will encapsulate in tissue and remain in suspended hibernation until the dogs and cats gets pregnant. The hormone changes pregnancy brings will stimulate them to migrate to the womb and infect puppies through the placenta. In both cats and dogs they will also migrate to the mammary glands and thereby infecting puppies and kittens as soon as they start to suckle.

Humans can also become infected with Toxocara. Due to the migration of the larva it can cause

a variety of signs. Blindness due to migration of larva to the eye has been known for a long time. However new data on Toxocarios, shows it is implicated in many other disease processes as well. There appears to be evidence that it is implicated in both epilepsy and asthma. Antibody levels in children in the UK is 27%, this mean that they have been exposed to Toxocara. 62% of 2-8 week old puppies have high worm egg counts. Bristol University has worked out that in Bristol, they reckon there is about 4 tons of cat and dog poo produced every day, and within this there are one billion roundworm eggs excreted! One adult worm lays 13,000 eggs per day It takes a month for an egg to develop into an egg producing worm in the dog. We can stop this by worming our dogs and cats monthly. Remember a lot of the parasite products we recommend acts on a multitude of parasites at the same time, but do remember the wormer doesn’t last for the whole month. It only gets rid of the worms that are in the gut at the time. It will not kill the migrating larvae, hence we have to do repeat worming on a regular basis. Maria Lowe, MRCVS Veterinary Surgeon, Viking Vets

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 8am - 6.30pm

Saturday 9am-12pm

Consultation by Appointment 30

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 31 0117 9592128

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

Local sales BS9 LOCAL MARKET ROUND UP

NATIONAL MARKET OCTOBER 2021

Over the last 12 full months there have been 111 sales in BS9. This is a 5% change on the previous 12 month period. The average sales price was £574,329.

Transactions by price band over the last 12 months NATIONAL

BS9 less than £100k

We bring you the latest trends in the UK’s housing market with a detailed focus on our local market.

£100k-£250k £250k-£500k

House prices

£500k-£750k

The rate of annual price growth across the UK slowed in July in all regions except Scotland. Month-on month across the UK the average price of a property fell by by 3.7%. At £255,535 the average price of a property is 8% higher than a year ago (UKHPI).

£750k-£1m £1m-£2m £2m-£5m £5m+

Economy House price growth

Top transaction

over 1 year and 5 years

in last 3 months

£545,000 +6%

+24%

PITCH & PAY PARK BS9

Average prices over last 12 months

The UK economy grew by 0.1% in July, its sixth consecutive month of growth although growth slowed signiﬁcantly from the 1% recorded in June. Output in the service sector remained broadly unchanged, the construction sector contracting by 1.6%.

Transactions Over 1 million property transactions have taken place across the UK in the ﬁrst eight months of 2021, higher than the number of sales during the entire year last year. The HMRC estimate 98,300 sales took place in August as the ﬁnal SDLT reduction draws to an end.

£1,200,000 £900,000 £600,000 £300,000 0 Flat/Apartment

BS9

Terraced

Semi-detached

Detached

South West

Source: Dataloft, Land Registry

We'd love to hear from you at our branch. Get in touch!

Eleanor Adye Howard Homes 203, Whiteladies Road, Bristol, BS8 2XT T:0117 923 8238 E:eleanor.adye@howard-homes.co.uk

Disclaimer: This report is produced for general information only. Whilst every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of this publication, Dataloft Ltd accepts no liability for any loss or damage of any nature arising from its use. At all times the content remains the property of Dataloft Ltd under copyright and reproduction of all or part of it in any form is prohibited without written permission from Dataloft Ltd. Published on 2021-10-12.

HOWARD HOWARD I N D E P E NI D N EDNE TP EENS D TA ET N ET AE G S TE ANTTES A G E N T S

HOWARD

FOR SALE

I N D E P E N D E N T E S TAT E A G E N T S

erience, With more With more than 30 than years 30 years of industry of industry experience, experience, n of the Howard the Howard agency agency is the is personal the personal visionvision of of y local Howard Howard Davis.Davis. This professional This professional and truly and local truly local s - trust, property property business business is born is of born family of family valuesvalues - trust, - trust, eally cares honesty honesty and loyalty. and loyalty. The Howard The Howard team team reallyreally cares cares Withabout more than of industry nd this about the people the30 people ityears does it business does business withexperience, and withthis and this . The beautiful beautiful area that area we that all we live all and live work and in. work The in. The the Howard agency is the personal vision of ard have Howard well-liked well-liked and respected and respected experts experts at Howard at Howard have have Davis. professional and truly local STOKE BISHOP - GUIDE PRICEThis £950,000 DURDHAM PARK - GUIDE PRICE £415,000 decades decades of combined of combined sales sales and lettings and lettings An exquisite family home offered with a 3 double bedrooms, 5th floor apartment, 2 lifts, property business is born of family values - trust, Four bedrooms, two reception private knowledge walk-out balcony, ge ofbeautiful garden.understanding understanding and exceptional and exceptional knowledge of farofreaching views, rooms, kitchen, and separate utility. DriveThe and Howard single garage and RPZ, well-maintained honesty and loyalty. team really cares gardens. uburbs. Bristol, Bristol, Somerset Somerset and the and surrounding the surrounding suburbs. suburbs. detached garage. Excellent location. We strongly 2 lifts. C

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you! If you beautiful We We whatthat we what dowe we and dowould and help toin. you! help Ifyou! youIf you area all livewould andtowork The professionalwell-liked have ahave property a property to sell to or sell let, or one let, of one our of professional our professional FOR SALE FOR SALE and respected experts at Howard have a free experts experts wouldwould be delighted be delighted to offer to you offera you freea free decades of combined sales and lettings . 0117 01178238 923 8238 . . valuation. valuation. Just call Justuscall on us on 923

understanding and exceptional knowledge of Bristol, Somerset and the surrounding suburbs.

We what we do and would to help you! If you have a property to sell or let, one of our professional experts would be delighted to offer you a free valuation. Just call us on 0117 923 8238.

GUIDE PRICE £315,000 REDLAND GUIDE hello@howard-homes.co.uk hello@howard-homes.co.uk hiteladies Road CLIFTON -0117 203- Whiteladies 203 PRICE Whiteladies Road 265,000 Road 923 0117 8238 923 8238 www.howard-homes.co.uk www.howard-homes.co.uk , BristolSpacious, BS8 2XT well-presented retirement apartment, Clifton, Bristol Clifton, BS8 Bristol 2XT BS8 2XTground A recently refurbished two-bedroom with two double bedrooms, the main being ensuite. Panoramic views from the living room towards the city. Communal gardens and resident’s lounge. Situated just off Whiteladies Road. Complete with an on-site Manager.

0117 923 8238

floor flat. New kitchen and shower room. Private southerly facing balcony and communal courtyard. Double glazed windows throughout. No onward chain. Viewing highly recommended.

hello@howard-homes.co.uk www.howard-homes.co.uk

203 Whiteladies Road Clifton, Bristol BS8 2XT

CHILDREN’S PUZZLES What or Who Am I? Can you spot who or what is in the pictures below?

Which Am I? Pick the correct name to match the photo.

Marrow

BMW

Poland

Tawny Owl

Courgette

Skoda

Switzerland

Snowy Owl

Aubergine

Peugeot

Austria

Barn Owl

Artichoke

Mercedes

Norway

Little Owl

Where Am I? Match the photos to the countries they were taken in. There are two extra countries listed, just to make it a little more difficult Brazil Finland Scotland Kenya Iceland Holland 34

(answers on page 70

A Trusted Presence Since 1860

FREE DRIVE-THROUGH VALUATION DAYS Monday 29th & Tuesday 30th November

9:30am - 1pm & 2pm - 5pm - Held at the salerooms NO APPOINTMENT NECESSARY

Specialist Sale Preview: Thursday 25th November at 10:30am Pierre-Auguste Renoir - Deux Roses £40,000 - £60,000

Late Victorian diamond and sapphire necklace

£12,000 - £18,000

Jewellery Valuation Day with Gemologist John Kelly Tuesday 30th November at the salerooms

www.clevedonsalerooms.com

01934 830 111 info@clevedonsalerooms.com Clevedon Salerooms, The Auction Centre, Kenn Road, Clevedon, Bristol, BS21 6TT 35

IT ISSUES - RUSSELL ISAAC Windows 11 is here - well, sort of.....

use,with a welcoming design that’s meant to make using your PC for work and play easier than ever. If moving from Windows 8 to Windows 10 was a minor revolution, moving to Windows 11 is billed more as a refinement.

October 5th saw the “official” release of Windows 11, the new operating system that Microsoft promised us would never happen. But don’t panic about major upheaval just yet.

Most reports of Windows 11 are reassuringly complementary, once you’ve got past the hassle of doing the upgrade. All Windows 10 users should be able to to upgrade for free but the roll-out programme is likely to take a year so don’t be surprised if you’re not offered it just yet. And I would recommend holding back on the upgrade for at least a year while they iron out the usual bugs (there’s no hurry as Windows 10 will be supported until 2025).

Microsoft’s vision for the future of personal computing has is a softer, more rounded design, one that puts the Start menu front and center while doing away with some of the things that cluttered up Windows 10. But while Windows 11 does introduce some welcome improvements, many are so subtle you probably won’t notice them unless you’re specifically looking. And even the changes that do grab your attention — like the newly centered Start button — tend to fade into the background with remarkable speed.

The main controversy with Windows 11 is the strict hardware requirements required to run it. In simple terms, most machines built pre2018 may struggle to run it - another good reason for many to stay put for as long as possible! Russell Isaac can be contacted on 0774 775 3764 or via www.ITHomeHelp.biz

Microsoft is pitching Windows 11 as a safer, more performant Windows that’s simple to

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 Maintaining Upgrading Open Boiler Servicing Extensions for Gas Building Repairs Loft Conversions Servicing & Emergency Call-Outs Bathrooms & Kitchens Breakdowns From Foundations to Roofs supplied & fitted Working from home? Need an office space? Contact us now for a free appraisal. We are your local one-stop for building services. Based & building in BS9 since 1975

GARCIA BUILDING SERVICES Garcias 2021 rev 0 Home Office and One Stop.indd 1

. . . it’s all under one roof 0117 962 2204 / 07860 301 756 michaelgarciabldr@yahoo.com www.garciabuildingservices.co.uk 37

17/02/2021 16:42:25

DON’T FORGET THE POWER OF PRINT ADVERTISING Social Media is great - but it’s a bit like sticking a Post-It note onto the windscreen of a car on a windy day one minute it’s there, the next minute it’s gone. Print cuts through the pain of digital. It’s more trusted, it’s more reliable, it lasts longer.

Does advertising in the BS9 and BS6+8 magazines work? 85% of the advertisers in this months magazine have been advertising in it for a year or more - ask them! The Bristol Nine and The Bristol Six + Eight magazines get delivered to 24,000 homes and businesses each month - that’s an awful lot of potential customers....

Contact Andy at Bristol Community Magazines - 0117 259 1964 / 07845 986 650 / andy@bcmagazines.co.uk / www.bcmagazines.co.uk 38

Inheritance Tax Receipts Increase According to HMRC’s latest statistics, inheritance tax (IHT) receipts for April to August 2021 were £0.7 billion higher than in the same period from last year, nearing a whopping £2.7 billion!

Whilst this would help ease the paperwork burden, the changes would impact the amount that can be gifted to reduce IHT. These latest suggestions provide a timely reminder of the need for IHT planning and the importance of maximising the use of the available exemptions.

Back in March, the Office for Budget Responsibility (OBR) projected 2021/22 IHT receipts to reach £6 billion, rising to £6.1 billion for 2024/25 and £6.6 billion for the following year, the highest it has ever been.

If you have concerns that your estate may be liable for IHT and would like to explore options to reduce it, you may wish to start planning sooner rather later – in the hope that if a rule change does occur, existing arrangements will be safeguarded.

However, with the figure for the first five months of this tax year already at nearly £2.7 billion, it’s possible that the final total for 2021/22 could be well above the OBR’s estimate. Both July and August’s IHT receipts are already the highest monthly amounts received from the tax, at £571 million and £576 million respectively.

To discuss how we can help you protect your assets, book your complimentary financial planning review with Chartered independent financial adviser Richard Higgs, by calling 0117 3636 212 or emailing office@haroldstephens.co.uk.

An all-party parliamentary group of MPs recently recommended that all the existing lifetime gift exemptions, such as for small gifts and normal expenditure, should be scrapped and replaced by a single annual gifts allowance, set at £30,000. The Office of Tax Simplification (OTS) also recently produced a report on the simplification of IHT in which they proposed a figure of £25,000.

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, BS9 3DZ. The firm specialises in advising retired clients on their investments and pensions, long-term care, inheritance tax and estate planning. Our next coffee morning will be on Tuesday 16th November at 10am @Coffee #1, Westbury where we’ll welcome u3a to tell us about local groups and activities. Join us for a free coffee. Get in touch to book your spot. 39

Kemps Jewellers Est. 1881

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

There is a real demand for modern pre-loved gold jewellery at the moment, so if you have any secondhand items you would like to sell do please bring them in. We are always in the market to buy and sell cherished gold jewellery.

Kemps Christmas Club

Beginning to think of seasonal gifts? Then why not take advantage of stage payments with us at Kemps? Pay a small deposit and spread the balance between now and Christmas, when choosing from our beautiful gift ideas (for ladies and gents). We will then box and gift wrap your purchases for you.

Kemps Jewellers 9 Carlton Court, Westbury on Trym 0117 950 50 90 www.kempsjewellers.com 41

PUMPKIN ON THE MENU AT SKIN ADDICT Now thankfully things have eased and with sensible care, the like of which an experienced esthetician like Jennifer would practice anyway, we are allowed back into the experts chair. Coinciding with the launch of a new collection of DermaQuest luxury skincare products, Jennifer is once again welcoming old and new clients in to her new business, Skin Addict - a personal boutique clinic on Alma Road specialising in skin concerns. With almost thirty years experience as an esthetist, and half of that time running The Body Centre, also in Alma Road, Jennifer has no shortage of clients willing to testify for her skill, understanding and professionalism.

I'm guessing the people that take advantage of the kind of skin treatments that experienced esthetician Jennifer Thorne offers fall into one of two main camps. There will be those who like the thought that what Jennifer does is great for their skin, in some specific and tailored way, and who by chance happen to enjoy the process. Then there will be the clients for whom a visit to her to clinic for a treatment is just that, a treat - a period of relaxation, invigoration, enjoyment that makes them feel good first and foremost, and which has the added bonus of benefitting their skin in some positive way as well. Now at the risk of stereotyping myself, I'm a middle-aged bloke for who a skincare routine is rarely anything more than a daily wet shave, an occasional exfoliation with whatever happens to be mildly abrasive and on the shelf by the shower, and a good rub down with a rough towel. I neither understand the science behind looking after my skin nor, if I'm honest, am I that interested. Apparently though "I am worth it" - we are all "worth it" - but what we are worth depends upon in which of the two camps we sit, or in the case of Jennifer's clinic, lie comfortably.

Now as alluded to earlier, and despite the aforementioned self-stereotyping, I am always happy to take an opportunity to experience (almost) any form of beauty/ wellbeing/complimentary treatment in the name of consumer journalism (!) - I've tried acupuncture, reflexology, reiki, gong therapy, past-life regression and hot-stone massage to name a few, and had my feet nibbled by fish in the name of skincare. In most cases the perceived benefits to me are best measured by the positive feelings of having time to stop, relax and enjoy some quality downtime.

I am very much in the latter group outlined above - a visit for a facial treatment is an opportunity to take some time out of what is an always-busy day to enjoy something that just happens to do me good as well as make me feel good. It is some me-time, that helpfully includes some professional skincare. During lockdown many, if not all of us had more time on our hands in which indulge, entertain or improve ourselves, in any number of ways. However if such indulgence or betterment normally took the form of some type of esthetic or beauty treatment this was largely denied us by the restriction on personto-person contact outside of our "bubbles" putting it simply, it's not possible to carry out a skincare regime on a client from six feet away. As a result practioners of the many and varied kinds of health and skincare practices and treatments have had a rough time, and their clients have missed out.

Meeting Jennifer was therefore more about that than the tangible dermal benefits to my skin that her practiced hands delivered. I didn't go in with a specific skincare issue - and so left my face in her hands, both figuratively and literally. And as I'm not too interested in the "sciency bit" I spent more time chatting and 42

relaxing under her expert touch than paying too much attention to what was actually happening - which might sound negligent on my part but I knew I was being well looked after. So while not particularly helpful or detailed in terms of explanation, I can report my face received a series of tingling or gently abrasive cleanses, soft massages and wipes (some cooling, some with a wonderfully hot facecloth). Thankfully the expert esthetician is on hand to help me out on this bit. Over to you Jennifer "Hello, my name is Jennifer, professional esthetician at Skin Addict, and I’d love to welcome you in to my new clinic. An esthetician is a person who specializes in the beautification of the skin, and whose work involves performing treatments and procedures to the skin as a way to maintain its health and vitality, improve its overall appearance, and combat the signs of sun exposure, acne and aging skin - without having to use injectables. I’ve twenty eight years in the beauty industry and realise the importance of constantly learning, so I am always researching, training and keeping up to date with everything there is to know about the latest treatments and the best way to keep your skin at its optimum, so that I can give the best results to my clients. Having assessed Andy’s complexion (all clients receive a free of charge consultation before their first treatment) we decided on a “mini pumpkin resurfacer”. Pumpkin contains vitamins A, C and E, and antioxidants which help fight sun damage and wrinkles, and the fruit enzymes help to exfoliate dead skin cells. It also contains zinc and potassium to combat redness, and honey to lock in moisture to keep your skin plump and more radiant.” So after 45 minutes of quality me-time, a mixture of warm, comfortable, peaceful 43

relaxation interspersed with friendly and attentive conversation, I arose rejuvenated - with a face that felt cleaner, smoother and more buff than for many a year, ready to return refreshed to the hurly-burly of postlockdown daily life. And thinking I must do this some more. A final word from Jennifer – “Do please take a look at my website, www. skinaddict.biz to find out more about me and the treatments and products I offer clients. As well as specialist skincare I will also be offering Lycon Waxing, Lash and Brow treatments and the amazing Aqua Hydra Facial. I want every one of my clients to feel relaxed and pampered during their visits ensuring an appointment at Skin Addict the highlight of their day. I am proud to be a DermaQuest clinic, offering my clients the very best products and treatments, with a results-driven range that covers all skin types and all skin concerns. Come in and experience beauty and skincare treatments that will transform how you look and feel. I look forward to seeing you at Skin Addict soon."

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MUSIC - PRESENT, PAST AND FUTURE Album of the Month

Next Step

Bright Magic by Public Service Broadcasting

Low by David Bowie To hear Public Service Broadcasting at their very best we would thoroughly recommend you digging out 2015’s The Race For Space, a lesson in how “intelligent” doesn’t have to be a pejorative in world of music criticism. Here though, we’re heading back to 1977 and West Berlin’s Hamsa Tonstudio.

On their previous albums, Public Service Broadcasting drew inspiration from the likes of the American/Soviet space race (The Race For Space) and the rise and fall of the coal industry in Wales (Every Valley). This time, it’s the history of Berlin which has captured the imagination of J Willgoose Esq. and his bandmates. The German city which has long acted like a magnet for creative types, perhaps most famously David Bowie, Lou Reed and U2.

Of Bowie’s Berlin Trilogy – a trio of albums, Low, Heroes and Lodger, that were recorded with Brian Eno and Tony Visconti – it’s Low that best encapsulates his newfound love of the German music scene. Inspired by bands such as Tangerine Dream, Neu! and Kraftwerk, he began his own adventures in more electronic sounds.

The album itself is split into three parts, the first focusses on the city’s industrial growth in the late 19th century, the second its evolution into an exotic haven which attracted characters from across Germany and further afield and the third is an abstract section inspired by the artistic energy oozing from the city.

Even the album’s most conventional moment, Sound & Vision is deeply revealing of his drugbattered mental state. “Pale blinds drawn all day / Nothing to do, nothing to say,” and it’s that detached feeling which permeates through the album’s second side. Abstract sound collages which lacked any of the funk which featured so heavily on his previous albums Young Americans and Station to Station. Yet again Bowie had drunk in a new set of influences and spat out something entirely unique.

Perhaps most significantly, Bright Magic continues the evolution away from a reliance on the archive footage/samples of speech that had become such a hallmark of their sound that began on Every Valley. As a result, the album feels less of a historical artefact and more a living document, given breath with the help of guest vocalists such as Blixa Bargeld and Nina Hoss (her reading of a Kurt Tucholsky poem on Ich und die Stadt is an album highlight).

Podcast of the Month The Jump If you enjoyed our previous recommendations Sodajerker On Songwriting and SongExploder then we’re confident you’ll be just as fond of The Jump. Hosted by Garbage frontwoman Shirley Manson, who seems genuinely curious about her guests each episode, this podcast is all about “The one song that changed everything.” With three seasons to wade through, highlights include Alanis Morissette discussing her smash hit You Oughta Know, Karen O of the Yeah Yeah Yeahs talking about emotional indie anthem Maps and funk legend George Clinton on Parliament’s political groove Chocolate City. Duncan Haskell

This new approach is no less effective; their mastery of atmospherics is evident from ominous Cold War-flavoured instrumental opener Der Sumpf (Sinfonia der Großstad) before we enter the 80s club scene on People, Let’s Dance, featuring EERA on vocals. As the synths build and build, the final section is Public Service Broadcasting at their most suggestive. Clearly inspired by Bowie’s Low (recorded at the same studio) and with more than a little hint of Kraftwerk, it’s the sound of a band with a deep understanding of their subject matter finding a new way to express themselves.

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TIDE TIMES Here are your high and low tide times for the River Avon locally this coming month. All times are listed in GMT, now that BST has ended, and those highlighted boldly are all high tides above 12 metres. The morning tides on Friday 5th (07.10) and Saturday 6th (07.52) are the highest daylight tides (at 13.9m) in the remainder of the year. High Tide

Low Tide

High Tide

Sat 6th November

07.52

14.43

20.13

Sun 7th November

08.34

15.22

20.56

Sat 13th November

01.56

08.21

14.32

21.08

Sun 14th November

03.06

09.43

15.35

22.11

Sat 20th November

07.31

14.18

19.50

Sun 21st November

08.03

14.48

20.22

Sat 27th November

11.39

18.03

Sun 28th November

00.18

06.35

12.49

Low Tide

19.19

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New protection for victims of domestic abuse

• •

Sadly domestic abuse touches many people in the course of their lives so it is welcome news that on 5 July 2021 the Domestic Abuse Act 2021 came into force. The Act aims to provide further protection to victims of domestic abuse, as well as strengthening measures to deal with perpetrators.

•

There are some key definitions of what counts as domestic abuse, how the parties must be related or know each other, special measures for victims of domestic abuse in family proceedings, local authority support, and prohibiting expenses for medical evidence.

It is irrelevant whether the behaviour occurs as a single incident or a course of conduct. The behaviour may still be towards the victim even if the conduct is directed at someone else, for example, the victim’s child.

For something to be classed as domestic abuse, there must be three components: • • •

The new Act introduces an assumption that the quality of a person’s evidence and their participation in court proceedings are likely to be diminished by reason of vulnerability. This applies when the person is a party or witness in family proceedings and is, or is at risk of being, a victim of domestic abuse. So as a victim of domestic abuse, the victim will be automatically eligible for access to special measures applied by the court which can include

The perpetrator and victim are both aged 16 or over; The behaviour is abusive; and They have a relationship that makes them ‘personally connected’.

“Abusive behaviour” consists of any of the following: • •

Physical or sexual abuse – this may include where one person carries out physical or sexual acts without consent; Violent or threatening behaviour – the perpetrator does not necessarily have to carry out the behaviour, but it is still abuse

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if it is threatened; Controlling or coercive behaviour; Economic abuse – the Act explains that this means any behaviour that adversely effects the victim’s ability to ‘acquire, use or maintain money or other property’ or ‘obtain goods or services’; Psychological, emotional or other abuse – abuse may be verbal and designed to impact the victim psychologically and emotionally.

•

Preventing a party/witness from seeing another party or witness; • Allowing a party/witness to participate in hearings and give evidence by live link; • Providing for a party or witness to participate in proceedings with the assistance of an Email: enquiries@lyonslaw.co.uk intermediary; and Website: www.lyonslaw.co.uk • Providing for a party or Telephone: 0117 950 6506 witness to be questioned in court with the assistance of an intermediary. An established and progressive law firm providing a personal and cost-eﬀective legal It is to be hoped that service for commercial and individual clients. these new provisions will allow victims to more • Family & Divorce Law readily use the services • Co-habitation disputes of the family court in • Inheritance disputes the knowledge that they • Wills and Living Wills will be better protected • Powers of Attorney from the conduct of their • Administration of Trusts abusers. • Property - sales and purchases Edward Lyons

PRIZE WORDSEARCH For no logical reason whatsoever the theme JANUARY JUNE ST GEORGE for the prize puzzle this month is the calendar, NOVEMBER and some of the things you will find on one. FEBRUARY JULY ST PATRICK There are twenty one months and special DECEMBER days listed below. Twenty of them have made MARCH AUGUST it into the wordsearch grid, and can be found EASTER ST DAVID running forwards, backwards, up, down or on APRIL SEPTEMBER ST ANDREW a diagonal, meaning that there is one event or CHRISTMAS MAY month that has been missed out. If you can find NEW YEARS DAY GOOD FRIDAY out the missing answer, and let me know what OCTOBER it is, you will be entered into the hat for this BOXING DAY month's prize - a £30 gift voucher to spend at a local gift shop of your choice in BS6, BS8 or Thanks as ever to everybody who took the BS9. Great for the run up to Christmas. Entries time to enter the September competition. please no later than 30th November, to andy@ The correct answer was "Pommel" and the bcmagazines.co.uk, 0117 259 1964, 07845 first entry out of the hat was from Joy BradleyName: _____________________________________________________ Roake, who I recall won oneDate: of the_______ very first 986650 or 8 Sandyleaze, WoT, BS9 3PY. competitions many years ago. Joy wins herself Here are the things you are looking for in the a selection of wine and chocolates. Do have another go this month - someone has to win! grid. Best of luck.

Dates

M Y F O T R T J A N U A R Y U Z O

F A R E B M E T P E S S A F D D C

E M G R P E K N K Y B K S Q F H B

B V O C T O B E R P P W X O R H L

R Y Y S L N S G O O D F R I D A Y

U B L D D L I R P A T H S U Y P J

boxingday standrew

A D A U I R O R I F X T C C N K U

R R Q Q J V D P W R M P T R C K N

Y J E Q S D A E S A H H A I A T E

stdavid 52

G P G T J C R D S T U E R X H M N

Z L T B S D E R T A G T Z A W Z O

J S T E N A A N R S A E G W X A V

X B J O U Y Z S N T J T M S B A F U Q W I G J B R U Z Q O E E H H X B T J S I M B T I N E P I Y G C N B Z D E U L Y A D O T M Y O H R K J Z B R G L E D J Z E G E M B E R

stpatrick

stgeorge

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29/11/2019 14:53:55

BALSAM BASHING Seven local groups formed Trout in the Trym. For 2021 two activities were identified, remove litter and eradicate Himalayan Balsam. The groups knew where the balsam was, it had been bashed in the past. Care was taken not to disturb breeding birds. Bristol Beekeepers were consulted as balsam is rich in nectar. Balsam can grow 3m tall and shoot its seed 6m when the seed cases explode. To eradicate balsam, it needs to be pulled up by the roots, snapped below the lowest leaf node, crushed, and left to dry, known as balsam bashing. Balsam can regenerate given half a chance. Bashing would continue until October as it can still appear, about 0.5m tall, with seed producing flowers even then. It needs to be bashed before the seeds are viable or they will spread. Each patch of balsam had to be visited three times, the initial bash, then a check a few weeks later to get what was missed first time and finally in September or October to destroy any late flowering plants.

Many of us discovered the joy of the Trym and Hazel Brook during the pandemic. It is possible to walk from Sea Mills station to the confluence in Blaise and then either to Crow Lane Open Space along Hazel Brook or the Trym Valley Open Space along the Trym with its Tiny Forest in Southmead and feel almost in the country. During the last three years many groups have been removing huge amounts of litter and other rubbish, including motor bikes and kitchen sinks, from the river and its surroundings, so now it’s relatively litter free.

The Lord Mayor Councillor Steve Smith , seen below, officially launched the balsam bashing on 27 June, and in all 750 hours of work has been done by about 110 volunteers in 40 organised sessions. All the balsam was eradicated except two areas that couldn’t be tackled. Balsam seed remains viable for three years, so we are going to have to do it again next year!

The Wild Trout Trust inspected the river in January 2019 their report suggested five ways to improve the ecology: Slow the flow when it rains; increase the number of tree branches in the river; introduce fish passages and remove weirs; make the flood defence channels less smooth and remove invasive non-native plants like Himalayan Balsam. Trout need different habitats during their life cycle: oxygenated clean gravel to spawn in; safe, sheltered, complex habitat as juveniles and deep (greater than 30cm) pools as adults.

If you would like to help with the next project, reducing pollution in the river, or help in other ways please do get in touch - contact troutinthetrym@gmail.com. 54

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VIEW FROM THE LORD MAYOR’S PARLOUR and genuinely humbling to meet some of the nominees and hear their stories.

As I write this in early October I find myself already about a third of the way through my year as Lord Mayor. The diary is continuing to build up and life is still a constant string of new experiences, people and events which is a real joy. The following is just a sample of what we’ve been up to, which I hope gives a flavour of the variety.

I’ve also been able to visit some of our faith groups around the city this month. I attended a celebration of the 10th anniversary of the Romanian Orthodox church in Bristol, and the 150th anniversary of the Park Row Synagogue (pictured here). These were both learning experiences for me, enhanced by the very warm welcomes that I received. It really is one of the great joys of this job to be able to learn more about the many cultures and faiths that make up our city.

I attended the launch of the “Project Home” appeal for Gympanzees in September. This is a Bristol-based charity which provides play and exercise facilities for disabled children. They have been running “pop-up” sessions around Bristol during lockdown and have now started an appeal to create an incredible permanent facility. You can find out more about them at www.gympanzees.org I was privileged to be one of the official starters for the combined Bristol Half Marathon / 10k. It was lovely to see thousands of people out enjoying our city and the event was extremely well run. I rather rashly promised that I’ll take part in next year’s 10k – the training starts here! Another month, another charity abseil! This time it was off the top of the Childrens’ Hospital in support of the wonderful Above and Beyond charity, which supports the city centre hospitals in Bristol. It was great fun, and to top it off they allowed me to abseil in my official robes, which must have been quite a sight!

Finally, we welcomed people to the Mansion House in early October for one of our regular “At Home with the Lord Mayor” events. It was lovely to see a range of people including volunteers from St Peters Hospice and the Air Ambulance as well as friends and neighbours from BS9. Our next event will be a special Christmas reception at the Mansion House and it would be lovely to see you there. Please just email lordmayor@bristol.gov.uk if you would like to join us.

A highlight of the month was attending the Bristol Young Heroes awards at We the Curious. This is an annual event organised by Communities of Purpose which celebrates young people in Bristol who have made extraordinary contributions to the city in a range of fields. It was a wonderful gala evening

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21ST CENTURY MYSTERIES In our latest quest to understand the mysteries of the 21st century we take a look at the world of the influencer.

their stuff by showing it in action in a real and authentic setting. Is this a new thing?

What is an influencer?

Celebrity culture has always been big currency and in this age where no one really knows exactly what a celebrity is any more, it’s no surprise that it’s a boom time for the influencer.

An influencer (also known as a social media influencer) is somebody with enough clout over their online audience to affect their behaviour / purchasing decisions. Influencers range from celebrities with large social media followings to more niche experts in field where they have a small but loyal audience.

Historically, it could be said that Josiah Wedgwood made an influencer of Queen Charlotte when he gave her a tea set back in the 1760s. Much more recently, think of the close association between Michael Jordan and Nike, brand and influencer working together in unit-shifting harmony.

In 2021, the line between celebrity and “normal” person is more blurred than ever and some influencers mainly exist in the online world – these could be popular YouTubers such as the UK-based Swedish gamer PewDiePie who has 110 million subscribers to his YouTube channel but is practically unknown in large parts of society.

The big difference is that the popularity of certain social media users has levelled the playing field and in some ways the influencer world is something of a meritocracy. If you’re any kind of expert in your field, no matter how niche, then there’ll probably be an appropriate brand wanting your help. Are there different types of influencer?

What does an influencer do? Companies work with influencers in order to advertise their brands and products, and gain authenticity by association. Companies will either gift their chosen influencer with free goods or pay them to promote something. As an example, a micro influencer (see below) can earn between £100-£600 for a single YouTube post. This could be as simple as a picture of your favourite outdoor explorer subtly wearing a certain hiking boot as they go about their adventurous business.

As well as differentiating influencers by their content – bloggers, YouTubers, Podcasters etc. there are also terms to distinguish them based on number of followers: Mega Influencer: over 1 million followers who can charge vast money Macro Influencer: 40k – 1 million followers Micro Influencer: 1k – 40k followers Nano Influencer: small following but an experts in a highly specialised area

These working relationship can vary in scale and as well as single social media posts they may also involve competitions, guest blogs and curated content from the influencer across the online channels (website, social media etc) of their partnered business. This is all done to increase web traffic and get more customers.

Are influencers here to stay? Absolutely and things are only going to get stranger. There has already been a rise in virtual influencers. The benefit of a brand working with the likes of YouTuber Laserbolt, an ageless digital human permanently in his twenties who reviews video games, is that he is scandal-proof and unlikely to ever be the victim of cancel culture. In short, these virtual influencers are every marketing managers dream.

You could be a farmer, teacher, therapist or dog walker, if you’ve got a large following then brands will want you to help them sell 58

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FAQs - Does a Will Trump an Inheritance Act Claim? Fiona Lawrence

Will disputes are a real concern for those who have taken the trouble to prepare their Will.

Although the starting point is that you can leave your assets to whomever you choose in your Will, the Inheritance Act* nonetheless acts as a safety net for eligible claimants who can demonstrate that they require more financial provision than they are due to receive under the Will, which in many cases is nothing. Who Can Bring an Inheritance Act Claim? These people are all automatically eligible: • spouses or civil partners including former spouses/civil partners; • children, including adults, and those treated as a child of the family by the deceased; • cohabiting partners as long as they cohabited for two years or more until the deceased’s death; • anyone else who was financially dependent upon the deceased until their death. Does That Mean a Claimant Will Automatically Succeed? No. There is a financial stress test. Claimants have to demonstrate they are in financial need to some extent and that they are not adequately provided for under the deceased’s Will or, if there is no Will, under the Intestacy Rules.**

Is That the Only Factor? No. There are five other factors to consider too. Any physical or mental disabilities the claimant has, any obligations that the deceased had towards the claimant, the conduct of the claimant or any other matter which it’s reasonable for the court to take into account. These are weighed against the financial position of the beneficiaries in the Will or of an intestacy and within the context of the size and nature of the estate. How Much Will a Successful Claimant Get? Outcomes vary enormously on the facts of each case and there is no set percentage. However, expert advisors can typically advise on the range of likely outcomes, having assessed the individual facts for claimants as well as advising those faced with defending a claim. Is There a Time Limit for Bringing a Claim? Claimants have six months from the date of the Grant of Probate to issue their claim at court without requiring the court’s special permission to do so. After which, they have a further four months to serve the claim on the executors and beneficiaries.

I Am Concerned About a Potential Claim, Is It Worth Me Making a Will? Yes it is. It is best to mention your concerns to your advisor when you make your Will as the careful choice of your executors is crucial if you do not want family members dealing with the estate administration and maybe a claim too as executors. There are other points you can consider, including preparing a list of reasons why you wish to exclude someone - but seek expert advice as these can backfire if not carefully prepared.

If you are concerned about a potential Inheritance Act claim we are experienced in advising both claimants and defendants to reach a resolution. Please contact Fiona Lawrence in our Private Client team on 07909 901370. * The Inheritance (Provision for Family and Dependants) Act 1975. ** The Intestacy Rules direct who inherits where there is no Will.

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BRUCE FELLOWS’ BOOK RECOMMENDATIONS Offshore is Penelope Fitzgerald’s short but precise and powerful Booker Prize winning novel of forty plus years ago. It concerns the lives of the intriguing inhabitants of a group of houseboats moored on the Thames. It’s the Swinging Sixties. Nenna and her daughters long for the return of their ne’er do well husband and father; Richard works in the city, but his wife hates the river; Maurice is relied on by everyone. Other characters have their own eccentricities and the water is a constant threat lurking beneath them. This is a funny, gripping and always entertaining tale of community life and above all of kindness. One night in November 1943, Norman Jackson crawled out onto the wing of his Lancaster to put out the fire in an engine. He failed but was awarded the VC for his courage; just one of the hard to credit stories told in Lancaster, a wonderful in-depth study of the best bomber we had during the War and everybody associated with it. John Nichol has brought together firsthand accounts from those who built and flew the plane, their families and those who sheltered downed crewmen in France. Astonishing, sometimes horrifying, tragic, moving and always informative, it’s a fine tribute to the machine and the people. Darcy O’Brien, the son of silent film greats grew up a Hollywood brat and wrote a fabulous novel about his experience, A Way of Life, Like Any Other. Of course, it wasn’t like any other. The hero’s childhood (his father calls him Salty) is gilded and appalling, privileged and deprived. When his mother leaves his father, Salty is trailed around after her as she lives with a succession of unusual men. His father takes him on visits to his old pals. A school friend attempts to rescue him and guess how that ends. It’s unpredictable and often very funny and you pray Salty escapes unscathed. If you like a heart-warming story shot through with humour and filled with fascinating characters, look no further than V for Victory, a wonderfully entertaining and uplifting novel by Lissa Evans. It’s 1944 and V2s are falling on London. The eccentric tenants of Margery Overs’ B&B are busy educating her nephew, Noel. Winnie is kept busy as an air raid warden but what’s her sister Avril up to? Then there’s the cuddly American corporal. Has he got his eye on Margery? But is Margery really who she says she is? And how does the deceased Mattie fit into the puzzle? Read it and find out. When university lecturer Gus steals a priceless Benin mask, The Dancing Face, to make a dramatic point about stolen treasures, he bites off more than he can chew. It’s not just him involved. There are Rodney and Baz, his accomplices; two girlfriends; his brother Danny; and the man with the money, Dr Okigbo. When things go wrong, they’re all involved and none have Gus’s selfless motives. Mike Phillips’ excellent thriller, first published in 1997 and now re-issued in the Black Britain: Writing Back series, tells the story at pace and also expounds on the importance of expropriated cultural artefacts to the peoples they come from. 62

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HISTORY NOTES NO 164 - UNDERGROUND EXPERIENCES This month’s article is a Troglodytic virtual tour of parts of Bristol’s history of which most of us are probably totally unaware. 1.

I had mentioned to a late friend Geoffrey Carlyle Garbutt that because of our history group’s knowledge of Bristol’s underground features the City Engineers, planning the route of the Northern Foulwater Interceptor Sewer, came to me for advice on any features to avoid. Carl then told me of the time when as part of his duties he had occasion to visit the cellar of a building in York Street, (that runs from Stokes Croft to Brunswick Square). Having gone to the cellar he discovered another one below, and then yet another below that. He was about to explore further when he heard voices emanating from below. At this point he fled up and out. He subsequently learnt that the lowest level provided an access point to the river Frome - but he never discovered who was down there during his very brief visit. So who were the mystery voices, were they real or a product of Carl’s imagination? Only years later I was recounting this to a policeman friend, who laughed, explaining that sometimes new recruits were taken down there as part of some initiation ceremony. Sadly this explanation came too late to reassure Carl. Bristol’s medieval importance led to monastic orders establishing themselves in the town. By 1267 the Carmelites’ order of White Friars had a water system which carried water from their springs on Brandon Hill to their friary on the site of the Colston Hall. In 1376 they also generously provided water for their neighbouring parishioners of St John’s on the Wall. The 16th century dissolution of the monastic houses meant their friary was no more which is why the system is now known St John’s Conduit. When Park Street had fine houses and gardens, the house near the top, later to become the famous George’s Bookshop, had a front garden with a large well surrounded by stone seats. The six feet wide well shaft, that still exists today beneath the middle of road, is about twenty feet 64

deep. However, readers will be relieved to know the well is very securely capped off. At the bottom of the shaft a large square cistern is fed from a spring from Brandon Hill. This water feeds into a pipe leading down Park Street. Beneath the junction of Great George Street, are two very large 22,000-gallon cisterns. During WWII two iron manholes were installed to provide emergency street access to the water for firefighting purposes. They remain, but every time a vehicle drives over they clang loudly, much to the alarm of motorists and subterranean explorers. 3.

Twenty feet beneath St. Nicholas Street on the back wall of a cellar a stone has an enigmatic inscription; “This is the Boundary of the property of Mr John Wadipam, witness FC Husenbeath, 1808”. I discovered that Frederick Charles Husenbeath, born at Mainz in Germany in 1765, was a much-respected member of Bristol’s business community where he lived from 1787. In 1795 he had a business in St Nicholas Street and by 1806 had expanded to include, in partnership with his son, a further business as wine and spirit merchants in premises beside the steps leading to St Nicholas Street from Baldwin S t r e e t . M a y b e the stone marked a boundary between his property and that of John Wadipam, and was a polite way of saying, ‘this far and no further’. Also the name "Wadipam" is indistinct as the wall has been over painted, probably many times since 1808. Thus, this enigmatic stone remains the only, but alas silent witness, to yet another a bit of Bristol’s history.

During the 1980s our history group were asked to complete a survey of the three acres of Redcliffe caves, a task started by speleologist Stan Collins but interrupted (continued overleaf)

Commercial property evictions ban extended to March 2022 and proposed new arbitration process The Government announced in June 2021 that it would be extending the current ban on forfeiture of a commercial lease for non-payment of rent until 25 March 2022. This will have been a welcome relief for many tenants, especially those in the leisure and retail sectors who have been most impacted by lockdown closures, but for those landlords who already have considerable arrears, there will be concern that by continuing the existing measures for a further 9 months it will do nothing to unlock the stalemate or allow the market to recover. Landlords are still able to pursue a contractual debt claim and the ban on statutory demands and winding up petitions expires on 30 September 2021, so there are other options available. However, the most recent measures could be seen by some to be more favourable to tenants which will be frustrating for those landlords who have sought to work with their tenants during the pandemic to proactively navigate the implications of the nationwide closures.

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It has also been announced that new legislation will be introduced by the Government in this Parliamentary session. It is intended that measures will be introduced to ring-fence any outstanding commercial rent arrears built up by tenants as a result of the pandemic closures and tenants and landlords will be guided to come to an agreement on how to deal with the money owed. This will be either by agreeing to waive some of the total amount due or by drawing up a longer-term repayment plan. Where agreement cannot be reached, an arbitration process will put in place under the new legislation to make a formal award that will be legally binding and must be complied with by both parties. This new arbitration scheme will be delivered by private arbitrators, who must prove their impartiality, in accordance with guidelines outlined by the legislation. The extension to the current eviction ban and the proposed arbitration scheme will potentially be controversial, and while it could be a lifeline to some, it will undoubtedly cause hardship for others. If you are a tenant struggling to pay your current rent or you are a landlord who has tenants with arrears then it is worth speaking to a legal professional about your options. AMD can provide you with specialist commercial property advice. Our commercial property solicitors can review your situation and provide you with practical and strategic advice about the best way to move forwards.

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HISTORY NOTES NO 164 - JULIAN LEA-JONES years before. Our completed survey was then provided to the city. For safety reasons we ensured that no member was allowed to work there alone. During our eighteen months of part time work, a personal incident occured that still makes me shudder. Our survey had reached the farthermost extent of the cave system when a very small opening was discovered. As the smallest member of the team I volunteered to enter it. Stripped to jeans, tee shirt and hard hat, I could just wriggle in with my arms stretched out fully in front of me. The wriggle seemed endless - actually about 60 feet - but at last I saw a opening. But it was only to a small circular chamber with no exit. On the wall was graffiti, “Joseph Coles, 1774”. With extreme difficulty, and great relief, I was able to turn around and head back out. But with horror I suddenly realised that a rise in the tunnel, was sandstone fallen from the roof! By the time I emerged my sides were covered in the soft stone which my passage in had scraped off the tunnel walls. We worked out that I had ended up somewhere under the foundations of what was then the Phoenix Assurance office block on Redcliffe Hill. Never again. 5.

Near Jacob Wells Road lies a hidden entrance that leads down to a freestone arched doorway beyond which are two branching tunnels. One section leads down Jacobs Wells Road ending in a freestone arched doorway facing across it but blocked up. The other section, 31 feet long, culminated in a spring chamber of a most unusual design. The heads of the tunnel arches and most of the masonry is of local Pennant stone. Records note that one system was taken over by the Dean and Chapter of St Augustine's Abbey (now the Cathedral). In contrast with the general construction of the system the entrance doorways are of finely carved freestone, The present-day entrance has a pointed head arch carved from a single block, with carved side pillars. However, the blocked entrance with a similar but less elaborate header arch, is propped up with a loose packing stone, totally out of keeping with the workmanship of the carved stone 66

pillars and arch heads. An explanation for the anomaly is that when the Abbey took over the system they used whatever spare masonry was available from their stoneyard to make it fit. Survey records show that the level of the land has risen over the centuries. For example the 1373 p e ra m b u l at i o n defining Bristol as a separate entity from Gloucestershire and Somersetshire refers to the Sandbrook running down the valley, (the account talks about crossing over the brook). During pre-expulsion times it is possible that although the spring and cistern were underground, the now blocked doorway opened on the hillside facing across the valley of the Sandbrook to the former ‘Jews Acre’, graveyard, now QEH grammar School. 6.

A Bristol Mercury newspaper cutting of the 5th November 1901 mentions "a discovery was made in St. Augustine's ... of something like 400 yards of subterranean passages, used in connection with a conduit system. It extended from the Three Tuns in St. Georges Road towards the Cathedral." The origin of the passage, from subsequently discovered plans, was that the pipe running through the tunnel once conveyed water from a spring at Jacob's Wells to the Deanery (now part of Cathedral School on the outh side of College Green). The plan showed a spring at the top of Jacob's Wells, “The Mercury reporter visited the site and after a lengthy search, tripped over two boards which he said appeared to be extremely old. The wording was barely decipherable, but one had the name of the place - Bellevue - and the other intimated that “Water for [Drinking]? may be obtained at this spring”. For most of the route from Jacobs Wells the pipe passed beneath the roadway, but then into the tunnel discovered in 1901. The passage passed underneath (continued overleaf)

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HISTORY NOTES NO 164 - JULIAN LEA-JONES have to be spectacular. The eye-catching stable and laundry block is in the form of a fake castle made of courses of iridescent blocks alternated with bandings and facings of contrasting Bath stone. Horace Walpole on a visit to Bristol called it the ‘Devil’s Cathedral’ a name which has stuck, whilst the famous Architectural Historian, Nikolaus Pevsner, described it as having ‘a strange sinister gaiety’.

the backs of the houses in Lower College Street, crossed College Street, and under Bishops Park, terminating just before Lower College Green was reached. 7.

An urban myth that wasn’t quite, but probably saved a life, relates to the Kwik Fit Auto site on the Bath Road. The local myth was that beneath the former paint works on the site that backed onto the railway sidings, was a small, buried room having a church style window. A few years ago the site was being cleared and one of our group members, learning of this, notified the Bristol Development Corporation, and he also warned the bulldozer driver who had not been told. Nevertheless, he heeded the warning. The very next day his bulldozer suddenly broke into a large void - fortunately he managed to jump clear. Thanking us, we were contacted by the developers and invited to visit the discovered void. What was discovered not a small ecclesiastical room, but a series of five parallel brick lined vaults, each about 7 feet high, 12 feet wide and 45 feet long. One had a small water filled cistern - the site is on the route of the Temple conduit. The prosaic explanation? The vaults were a simple way of levelling the land for the railway as well as providing storage and stabling, complete with water for the horses. A myth de-bunked but maybe a life saved. Travellers from Bristol to Bath along the road at Arnos Court may not realise that they are passing over a tunnel. The tunnel was dug so that staff of William Reeve, owner of Arnos Court, merchant and brass smelter, could get from his mansion to the stable blocks and laundry on the other side of the road without getting mud splattered by passing carts or stagecoaches. It was almost certainly used to take his dirty washing from the house to the laundry – he obviously heeded the old adage about dirty linen… not in public. He had the idea of using his waste copper slag to build his stable block and laundry, in the form of a black sham castle. William realised that if the building was to advertise his new material it would 68

On 17th March 1775 a melancholy accident occurred to the Rev Thomas Newnham. a minor canon of the Cathedral. Newnham was about 25 years of age and had gone with his sister and two friends to visit a singular cavern at Brentry, known as Pen Park Hole. To ascertain the depth of the cave he hung over the opening in order to drop a line, when the small branch of an ash tree to which he was holding broke and he fell to the bottom, nearly 200 feet, into a deep pool of water, in spite of repeated efforts his body was not recovered for five weeks.

10. Viewed from Bristol Bridge at the riverside wall of Welsh Back, by the steps to the water’s edge, a small bricked up and barred window can be seen. To discover a cast iron clue to what once lay behind the window, head into the Back and notice the cast iron castellated kerb edging between the pavement and the cobbles of Welsh Back. You will see that the edging nearest the bridge is still castellated, but the section nearest the steps is worn completely smooth. The steps once led down to underground toilets. One wonders how many tens of thousands of trips of relief are represented by all that wear of the cast iron? The toilet’s closure in the 1980's (from memory) was due to the impact of a bus. Until that collision the entrance on the back had decorative railings. Salvaged and repaired, these now grace the forecourts of the buildings in Alma Vale Road, between Whiteladies Road and the side entrance to the Clifton Down shopping centre. Eur-Ing, Julian Lea-Jones C. Eng., FRAeS © 2021

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QUIZ ANSWERS Quiz Time from page 21 The USA 1. Wisconsin; 2. George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt and Abraham Lincoln; 3. Close Encounters of the Third Kind; 4. Chicago and Los Angeles; 5. New York, Los Angeles, Chicago. Russia 1. Mikhail Gorbachev; 2. Kazakhstan; 3. red with a golden hammer, sickle and gold bordered red star; 4. Tsar Nicholas 11, the Romanov dynasty; 5. Moscow, Saint Petersburg, Novosibirsk. Biscuits 1. A Jacobs Cream Cracker has a surface area of 4.6cm2 whereas a McVities Digestive is just 4.3cm2 2. Club biscuits; 3. Garibaldi, named after Italian General Guiseppe Garibaldi; 4. Crawford’s Biscuits; 5. (l to r) Lincoln, Nice, Rich Tea. Politics 1. Sir Geoffrey Howe; 2. “save the Pound” in 2001; 3. Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change; 4. a) Harold Wilson, b) Herbert Asquith, c) Tony Blair; 5. (l to r) Martin Bell, Barbara Castle, Jeremy Thorpe. Geography 1. Asia and Africa, it runs from Lebanon to Mozambique; 2. Liechtenstein (it is surrounded by Switzerland and Austria); 3.a) Worcester, b) Lancaster, c) Cambridge; 4. Constantinople and Byzantium; 5. La Paz (Bolivia). Blue Things 1. Blue Monday by New Order; 2. Leila Williams, Konnie Huq; 3. it’s a semi-precious mineral; 4. David Lynch; 5. about 9%. Pot Luck 1. Conference of the Parties; 2. Russia (the Crimean Peninsula), the Crimean War; 3. National Maritime Museum; 4. Amsterdam (the Netherlands), and Zagreb (Croatia); Sienna Elizabeth (York). Sport 1. Leicester Tigers; 2Kadeena Cox; 3. 10; 4. Sebastien Loeb; 5. Leylah Fernandez. History 1. 1989; 2. Henry VII, Henry VIII, Edward VI, Mary I, Elizabeth I; 3. the Houses of Parliament (Palace of Westminster); 4. 1977, forty two; 5. Custer’s Last Stand. Where am I? (clockwise from top left) Prague, Brussels, Florence, Paris. Who Am I? Prue Leith and the Dalai Lama. Children’s Puzzles from page 34 Who or What Am I? Anton du Beke, fish and chips, badger, Hula Hoops. Which Am I? courgette, Mercedes, Austria, Barn Owl. Where Am I? (clockwise from top left) Holland, Scotland, Kenya and Finland. 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 70 the prior written consent of Bristol Community Magazines. Bristol Community Magazines Ltd and may not be reproduced without

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WHAT’S ON & COMMUNITY NEWS Once again this month has seen a clear rise in the number of notifications about clubs and societies physically recommencing, and events being booked into diaries. Thank you to everyone who has taken the trouble to get in contact to let me know of things going on. If you are involved in any local groups, not-for profit organisations, charity events or social activities and would like some free publicity do please get in touch. It will be great to get the listings here back to their pre-pandemic numbers. And if you are the contact included in any of the existing listings and would like to update your information and / or contact details then please do get in touch. Email andy@bcmagazines.co.uk or write to 8 Sandyleaze, WoT, BS9 3PY, and I will be more than happy to include them.

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All Together Now Bristol Choir - www. alltogethernowchoir.com 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? The lecture on 9th November is on Joaquin Sorolla, Painter of Light and on 14th December is on The Music of Tchaikovsky. Lectures are expected to be held at 8pm at Redmaids’ High School, Westbury-on-Trym, BS9 3AW and delivered by internet. For more information visit our website www. theartssociety-bristol.org.uk BCCS (Bristol Cathedral Choir School) Choral Society is now meeting at the Henleaze Bowling Club in Grange Court Road, on Wednesdays from 7.30 to 9pm. We are a small, friendly, unauditioned choir singing varied music, from choral works to more modern pieces and we would welcome new members of all standards. Please do come and give us a try. For more information, please contact Kathy telephone 0117 9493628 or email www.bccschoralsociety.org.uk Beaufort Junior Badminton Club - Penny at pennyshears@googlemail.com or call 07941 013 514 Biodanza Bristol Weekly Group runs every Tuesday 7-9pm at All Saints Church, Randall Room, Alma Vale Road, Clifton, BS8 3ED (entrance upstairs).

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Cost: £10, 5 week card £40, 10 week card £70. Contact antoinette@biodanza4all. com for more details. Bridge Tuition - 07837 300 073 or email tc.stygall@gmail.com Bristol & Clifton Dickens Society, 0117 927 9875 - www.dickens-society.org.uk Bristol All Voices Allowed Choir is a community choir started in 2020 by former members of the Bristol Hippodrome Choir and All Together Now Bristol Choir We are looking for new singers, men and women, beginners and more experienced singers, to join us. Rehearsals on Tuesdays, 6.30 – 8.00pm at Holy Trinity Church, Hotwells. Contact Chris on 07866 456 776. Bristol Astronomical Society - www. bristolastrosoc.org.uk Bristol Bridge Club is running beginners lessons on Tuesday mornings and Wednesday evenings; it’s not too late to join as there will be catch up lessons if you missed the beginning of the course. Please contact teaching@ bristolbridgeclub.co.uk for further details. Bristol Bridge Club (BBC) has been running free online supervised sessions with some teaching all through the pandemic on Zoom, and will continue to do so every Saturday morning from 10am to 12 noon. To take part, go to the bridge club website www. bristolbridgeclub.co.uk and follow the link “Learn and Play”. Bristol Brunel Lions Club - Bill O’Neill at lion.bill@virginmedia.com Bristol Cabot Choir - please email admin@bristolcabotchoir.org or visit www.bristolcabotchoir.org Bristol Chamber Choir - www. bristolchamberchoir.org.uk, Rae Ford on 0117 939 1685, rodcoomber@aol.co.uk Bristol Chamber Orchestra celebrates its return to live performing with a concert on Saturday 27th November at 7.30 pm in Trinity Henleaze URC with an exciting programme consisting of Beethoven’s “Emperor” piano concerto, Haydn’s “Drumroll” symphony, and shorter works by Mendelssohn and Gluck. For further

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information and tickets please phone 01275 392 344. Bristol Community Gamelan - email keithripley27@gmail.com or phone 0117 944 4241. Bristol Film and Video Society (Amateur film makers). We continue to make prize winning films, and meet via Zoom on the first and third Tuesday of every month. All are welcome. For more details please visit www.bristolvideo.org.uk Bristol French Circle / Cercle français de Bristol. We are looking forward to welcoming Claude Rapport back to BAWA on Thursday 4th November. She is a very entertaining speaker, and will be presenting ‘Inventions françaises, des grandes aux farfelues.’ On 18th November we will enjoy a Zoom talk by Brigitte Thibaut on ‘L’héritage de Napoléon, 200 ans après sa mort’. Do look at our website (www.cfbristol.org. uk) for updates and the programme, or get in touch with Charlotte Taylor, the President – she will be delighted to chat with you! charlottejanetaylor10@gmail. com / 07976 922 636. Bristol Grandparents Support Group 07773 258 270, www.bgsg.co.uk Bristol Indoor Bowls Club - info@ bristolindoorbowls.org.uk, tel: 0117 963 3460, www.bristolindoorbowls.org.uk Bristol Languages Tutor: French, Spanish & English Tuition. Qualified teacher with 12+ years tutoring experience. Lessons at home or online. Children, students, adults. Complete beginners, after-school clubs, conversation practice and exam preparation (GCSE, A Level, Common Entrance etc.). Email: BristolLanguagesTutor@gmail.com or Tel. 07825 600 402. Bristol Male Voice Choir are rehearsing once again, and we invite new and returning singers to join us at our weekly rehearsals, every Thursday from 7pm -9pm at St Andrew’s Methodist Church, Elm Park, Filton, Bristol BS34 7PS. We are a sociable and friendly group, singing a wide range of musical styles in our repertoire, and we look forward to seeing you - you don’t have to be

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a reader of music. Ffi see our website www.bristolmvc.org.uk or contact our secretary on 07941 040 472. Bristol Morris Men www. bristolmorrismen.co.uk, Grant on 0117 944 2165. Bristol Phoenix Choir If you love singing we would love to hear from you! We are a friendly choir and we enjoy rehearsing and performing great choral works as well as shorter more intimate pieces. If you would like to sing with us please contact Jackie our membership secretary jackie. blackwell410@gmail.com. On Saturday 20th November, 7.30pm at the Victoria Methodist Church, Whiteladies Road BS8 1NU we will be performing Lux Aeterna by Morten Lauridsen. Please see www.bristolphoenixchoir.org.uk for details. Bristol Scrabble Club meets every Wednesday at 7.15pm at Upper Horfield Community Trust (next to Eden Grove Church). New members welcome first visit free so come and give it a try. For further information contact Sheila on 0117 957 0792, 07435 316 458 or shinett@blueyonder.co.uk Bristol Shiplovers Society - www. bristolshiplovers.co.uk The Brunel Sinfonia are performing again, with a lovely concert at 7:30pm on Saturday 6th November at Redland Hall, Redmaids’ High School, BS9 3AW. Conducted by Mark Gateshill, we will be playing Tchaikovsky’s Symphony no.1 (Winter Daydreams), Smetana’s Vltava and The Water Goblin by Dvorak. Tickets are £15 adults, £12 concessions, £6 NUS and £3 U18’s - available on the door, or in advance from brunelsinfonia.org.uk. 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? Go to www. bristolu3a.org.uk for details. Carers Support Centre - 0117 965 2200, www.carerssupportcentre.org.uk City Voices Bristol are delighted to

Friday 5th November

Doors open on

Park Grove

from 6pm

Display starts at 7.15pm

ADULTS £6 KIDS £4 PRESCHOOLERS GO FREE