The Bristol Nine magazine - January 2014

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Jan 2014 No 94

In this issue - win a membership to Clifton College Sports Centre - goings on in your winter garden - win lots of cakes - local community news galore - and more

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4 Useful Numbers and Information Gas Emergencies

0800 111 999 Electricity Emergencies 0800 365 900 Water Emergencies 0845 600 4 600 Avon & Somerset Police Non‐ Emergencies

101 (new no.)

Crimestoppers

0800 555 111 Southmead Hospital 0117 950 5050 Frenchay Hospital

0117 970 1212 BRI / Children’s Hospital 0117 923 0000 NHS non‐emergency 111 Council Dog Warden Services 0117 922 2500 Bristol Blood Donation 0117 988 2040 The Samaritans

08457 90 90 90 Alcoholics Anonymous 08457 69 75 55 ChildLine

0800 11 11 National Rail Enquiries 08457 48 49 50 Telephone Pref Service 0845 070 0707 Mailing Pref Service 0845 703 4599 Bristol Care & Repair ‐ home safety checks & handyman 0117 95 4 2222

Postal Services Westbury on Trym Post Office 9 ‐ 5.30 Mon to Fri, 9 ‐ 4 Sat Henleaze Post Office 9 ‐ 1 , 2 ‐ 5.30 Mon to Fri, 9 ‐ 12.30 Sat Westbury on Trym Parcel Collection 7 ‐ 1 Mon to Fri, 9 ‐ 12 Sat

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

Currently the late post is at 7pm,

Local Libraries Henleaze ‐ tel. 903 8541 Mon 9.30 ‐ 7.00, Tues 9.30 ‐ 5.00 Wed 9.30 ‐ 5.00, Thur 9.30 ‐ 5.00 Fri 9.30 ‐ 7.00, Sat 9.30 ‐ 5.00

Westbury on Trym ‐ tel. 903 8552 Mon 9.30 ‐ 5.00, Tues 9.30 ‐ 5.00

Wed 9.30 ‐ 5.00, Thur ‐ closed Fri 9.30 ‐ 7.00, Sat 9.30 ‐ 5.00

Sea Mills ‐ tel. 903 8555 Mon, Tue, Fri, Sat 9.30 ‐ 1.00 , 2.00 ‐ 5.00 Wed ‐ closed, Thur 9.30 ‐ 1.00 , 2.00 ‐ 7.00

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

Local Churches St Mary Magdalene, Stoke Bishop www.stmarysb.org.uk 0117 968 7449

Methodist Church, WoT www.westburyontrymmethodistchurch.org.uk 0117 962 2930

Baptist Church, Reedley Rd, WoT www.westburybaptist.org.uk 0117 962 9990

Holy Trinity Parish Church, WoT www.westbury‐parish‐church.org.uk 0117 950 8644

Sacred Heart Catholic Church, WoT www.sacredheartchurch.co.uk 0117 983 3926

St Peter’s Church, Henleaze www.stpetershenleaze.org 0117 962 4524

Trinity URC, Henleaze www.trinityhenleazeurc.org.uk 0117 962 9713

The Community Church, WoT www.the‐community‐church.net 0117 946 6807

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

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7 The Editor’s Small Piece

Hello there and a very happy new year to all readers, I hope your festive break has been a good one and that 2014 has started off well. It’s the day before Christmas Eve as I type this so, with the rain lashing down, so I’ve no idea what Christmas has brought us except a trip to the panto on Boxing Day.

I do hope you enjoy this first issue of the year ‐ which as previously mentioned will be one of just 11 in 2014. There will be no February Bristol Nine as I have a breather and stand back to take a (hopefully) relaxed look at how I can improve the magazine, both visually in terms of how it looks and feels, and behind the scenes in how it is produced, printed and delivered to you. I’m not planning any wholesale changes, or change for change sake, but there are things that can be better and, with a little time and effort, will be enhanced.

In the meantime your January issue includes a cake themed prize wordsearch and, more excitingly, a competition very kindly sponsored by Clifton College Sports Centre with a chance to win an annual membership worth some £700. See p 28 for more details.

So for now enjoy January and February and I’ll see you at the start of springtime. Thanks for reading!

Andy To get in touch ‐ T: 0117 968 7787 M: 07845 986650 P: 8 Sandyleaze, WoT, BS9 3PY E: andy@bcmagazines.co.uk Tw: @BS9Andy W: www.bcmagazines.co.uk

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The mysterious trusts

world

of

By Shelley Faulkner, solicitor with AMD Solicitors Setting up a trust, but why?

Before I began working in the field of private client law, I found it difficult to see why anyone, in the 21st century world of regulation and bureaucracy, would want or need to set up a trust. The concept of giving money away to somebody (or bodies) to hold on behalf of somebody else, seemed to me to be both creating complexity now and potentially storing up costs and trouble for the future.

I now appreciate that there are many situations in which setting up a trust is the logical and sensible decision to take. Here are a couple of examples to show why.

Say you are married for the second time, with children from the first marriage. You understandably want your current spouse to be able to continue living in your home after your death. However you also want your children to eventually receive the funds you have built up in your lifetime; you do not want them to lose out because you have chosen to remarry. The way to achieve this is to set up a trust in your Will.

The trust can provide your wife with a home for life, and your children with the funds on your wife’s death.

Here is a second example of a logical reason for creating a trust. Say you have

Advice Making a Difference

suffered an injury in a car accident and (since the fault was another driver’s) been awarded compensation.

If you simply bank the compensation, the funds will be taken into account if you apply for state benefits, and you may lose out on income as a result. If you set up a ‘personal injury trust’, and put the compensation you have received into the trust, the funds will be ignored in the calculation of most benefits.

Setting up a personal injury trust is not in any way unethical, since the legislation has been set up with the stated aim of allowing those who have received compensation for an injury to preserve it to meet their future needs, by means of setting up a trust.

Funds for children There are many other examples of sensible reasons for setting up a trust. Where money is to be held for children, or for an adult who is suffering from a mental illness, for example, the creation of a trust is vital.

The world of trusts is, contrary to my former belief, in fact very much a practical and indispensable aspect of modern-day life.

For advice on trusts, probate, wills and all private client issues, please contact Shelley and the other members of our team of specialist private client lawyers telephone 0117 9621205 or email probate@amdsolicitors.com or call in at 15 The Mall Clifton or 100 Henleaze Road Henleaze www.amdsolicitors.com Copyright AMD Solicitors

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STUMP GRINDING, FENCE ERECTION & REPAIRS TURFING & GARDEN CLEARANCE

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DEVEREUX & Co.

Free Initial Interview

0117 959 33 44 SOLICITORS We only do 3 things - because we like to do them well Conveyancing

Wills & Probate

Divorce & Family

www.devlaw.co.uk 52A High Street, Westbury-on-Trym, Bristol, BS9 3DZ

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14 Louise’s tips for an easier life

Bring on 2014 and All it has to Offer!

One of the greatest perks of my job is being able to make a real difference to people.

Established in November 2011, I have been working as a Lifestyle & Home Assistant in Bristol for over two years now and I can truly say that I have helped people turn their lives around. Whether I’ve been de‐cluttering or being another pair of hands to ensure a house move goes smoothly, I have seen many times over the benefits of helping people turn tasks from ‘overwhelming’ to ‘accomplished’. It has been an absolute privilege and a joy to help people at key moments in their lives.

I have met a wonderful variety of people and developed some really useful contacts from interior designers, to caterers and carpenters.

When you book my time to help you with a task or chore, I can recommend the right people to help provide the solution.

Now that we are in the new year, it’s an excellent time to take stock; to reflect on last year’s events and have a think about what you’d like to achieve in 2014. Last year I mentioned eight sub‐headings that I use to help me focus my thoughts:

· Friends & Family

· Relationships

· Health & Fitness

· Travel

· Education & Self‐Development

· Spiritual

· Finance

· House & Home

In the interests of practising what I preach, I met with my friend back in December and we compiled our lists. We committed our Resolutions to paper ‐ each taking a piece of A3 paper and concertina‐ing it into eighths (that’s in half, in half again and in half again) and wrote a heading on each section. We will review our lists every few months – supporting each other in getting the items ticked off the lists and feeling a sense of achievement.

We also looked through some magazines and cut out pictures that inspired us. Again we took a piece of A3 each and stuck the pictures on to create a vision board for 2014. Perhaps you are more of a creative and visual person, rather than a written list person, in which case this could really work for you.

So, whatever you’ve got on the cards for 2014, call me for a no‐obligation chat and find out some of the ways that I can make life simpler for you! Think of me as the extra hours in your day. I have a broad repertoire of skills and my services are really flexible and completely bespoke. From once a month, once a week or just a one‐off, I offer a professional service to fit in with your life and, most importantly, to make your life easier!

Happy New Year and bring on 2014!

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

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

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Established in Bristol over 65 years ago and offering a wide range of services to both businesses and individuals ▪ ▪ ▪ ▪ ▪

Outstanding personal service Expert professional advice Taxation services All aspects of accounts preparation Audit

tel: 0117 950 1000 email: johngraveney@william-price.co.uk website: www.william-price.co.uk

▪ ▪ ▪ ▪ ▪

Book-keeping Payroll / PAYE VAT Returns CIS Returns Small Business Start Ups

tel: 0117 941 9000 email: Info@walbrookaccountancy.co.uk website: www.walbrookaccountancy.co.uk

ALL THESE SERVICES UNDER ONE ROOF. DO COME AND SEE US - THERE’S NO CHARGE FOR YOUR FIRST MEETING! Westbury Court, Church Road, Westbury on Trym, Bristol, BS9 3EF

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18 Prize Wordsearch A real treat to kick off 2014, and a test of wills for those of you trying to be “good” this new year ‐ a cake‐themed prize wordsearch. Usual idea ‐ listed below are 21 different types of popular cake. All bar one of them are also hidden in the wordsearch grid. Your job is to find the missing cake and let me know which it is. Chances are I’ve scoffed it as it is my favourite one in the list ‐ which will be of no help to you unless you are a family member.

Just let me know the missing cake by February

14th and if you are correct your name will go into the random selection process to be in with a chance of winning a diet‐busting assortment of patisserial loveliness (i.e. lots of cakes).

Answers to me please by post (8 Sandyleaze, Westbury on Trym, Bristol, BS9 3PY), email (andy@bcmagazines.co.uk), phone (0117 968 7787), text (07845 986650) or tweet (@BS9Andy).

Right, here’s what you are looking for ‐ Dundee, Angel, Fairy, Christmas, Battenberg, Fruit, Sponge, Bara Brith, Black Forest, Carrot, Cup, Coffee Walnut, Eccles, Chorley, Genoa, Lemon Drizzle, Madeira. Muffin, Simnel, Swiss Roll, Lardy.

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Happy New Year to all Bristol Nine readers. We all hope you had a great fes ve break and that you are looking forward to 2014 with enthusiasm ‐ and for many people, no doubt, a determina on to “get a bit fi er this year.” At Pure we can help ensure that your ini al resolu on turns into real achievement, by working with you towards reaching those fitness goals ‐ whatever age you are, however fit you are now and however much you want to achieve. We are different from the large impersonal gyms where you pay your subscrip on, then get le to your own devices un l your mo va on disappears and you leave having achieved li le. We will work with you all the way, on a one to one basis ‐ encouraging, mo va ng and yes, some mes cajoling you, as you work towards your goals. With a personal trainer at your side there is far more chance of you “ge ng there” than if you try to reach your fitness dreams alone.

Going to a gym isn’t necessarily about “ge ng fit”. All of us at Pure believe that it is never too late to take an ac ve interest in simply improving your wellbeing. We have many mature clients who just want to improve how they feel, whether it is by becoming more supple, increasing their stamina or boos ng their energy levels and feeling be er in themselves. We work with each client to determine where it is they want to get to and how best they can achieve their health targets.

Kick start 2014 with our

New Year Offer !

2 personal training sessions & a months membership of the gym for just £50 (normally £110) (new members only)

So whether you are 18 or 88 (and we’ve worked with both!) let Pure help you make 2014 a year for feeling good about yourself. If you are interested please just pop in or give us a call for a chat ‐ no pressure, no obliga on, just friendly help.

Pure Health & Fitness, Personal Training Gym, 78 Shirehampton Road, Stoke Bishop, BS9 2DR, 0117 968 7408 www.purehf.co.uk or follow us on Facebook and Twi er

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Join Us Now Please call in and see for yourself or ring Sue on 01179 500044

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15 MONTHS MEMBERSHIP FOR 12 MONTHS SUBSCRIPTION NO SUBSCRIPTION PAYMENTS UNTIL 1ST APRIL 2014 A friendly members club delivering a quality golf course in a beautiful setting in the heart of Bristol.

Henbury is a stunning course in outstanding condition.

You can expect a warm and friendly welcome in the clubhouse

Sue on 01179 500044 (option 1)

24 Constituency Matters with Charlotte Leslie MP First of all, a very Happy New Year to all readers of BS9 magazine.

I was delighted to welcome Olympian James Cracknell to Henleaze last month.

He visited on North View business Up & Running as part of Small Business Saturday and was incredibly impressed by the shop, which provides everything for keen runners.

Kevin Staples, Nick Rose, James Cracknell Charlotte Leslie and Rick Wallis

BS9 has some of the best independent traders in the city and I am passionate about doing everything possible to support small enterprises.

Not only do they bring prosperity but they enhance an area beyond measure ‐ all the more important we support them in the era of internet shopping and other competition.

________________________________________

The new year is always a good time to take stock, reflect then move forward full of enthusiasm for the year ahead.

There is so much going on in BS9 but I wonder whether one of the most significant developments for the area will be connected to

goings‐on in nearby South Gloucestershire.

Just before the end of the year, as many readers may have noted, South Glos approved its ‘core strategy’. Basically, this is a planning blueprint for the next several years.

So what has this got to do with people in Henleaze, Westbury‐on‐Trym and Stoke Bishop? In fact, quite a lot.

A key plank of the core strategy is the building of 5,000 homes on and around the Filton Airfield site. Putting to one side the debate about the airfield itself, this is a massive undertaking on the northern fringes.

Potentially we are looking at thousands more commuter journeys every day, most of who will be travelling from the airfield site, near Henbury, along the main arteries into Bristol.

And this is where BS9 comes in.

We already have chronic problems along Westbury Road and other routes which will only be exacerbated by all those extra journeys.

So this makes it imperative that, before any decisions are made about new homes, we have a properly functioning public transport system.

For me, nothing less than a full Henbury Loop as part of the Bristol MetroWest and a comprehensive Oyster‐style card which will enable people to move from one type of public transport to another will do. We also need good sense on our bus services with affordable fares and no silly ideas about moving bus stops which will just clog up traffic, as I reported last month with the issues at the bottom of Henleaze Road.

Charlotte Leslie ‐ MP for Bristol North West Office: 184 Henleaze Road, Bristol, BS9 4NE 0117 962 9427 E: charlotte.leslie.mp@parliament.uk

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130 Westbury Road, Westbury on Trym, 0117 962 0008

For all your complementary healthcare needs

Relax with Reflexology

Here at the Chiron Centre, our team of Reflexologists focus on helping their clients to relax and get healthy. With over 19 years’ experience between them, they have extensive knowledge in trea ng male and female clients of all ages.

So, why is it so important to relax? Fundamentally, relaxa on is essen al for releasing stress and maintaining good health. If we are feeling tense or wound up our body and our mind will find it difficult to work efficiently and effec vely. The more relaxed we are, the healthier and happier we are. It’s as simple as that!

With the busy lives we lead, it is so easy to priori se work and family commitments ahead of our own well‐being. Why not make me this New Year, to turn the situa on around? Relax by walking the dog, spending me with a good friend, watching a film or reading a book or magazine. These simple changes can make a real difference to how relaxed you feel especially if you do them regularly and integrate them alongside ea ng healthily, cu ng down on alcohol and trying to get 7 or 8 hours sleep per night.

Reflexology, a complementary therapy, can also help you relax physically and mentally. If you haven’t tried it before, why not treat yourself? It is possible to have a one‐off session or a course of treatments. Please contact us at the Chiron Centre, Tel: 0117 962 0008 or look at the website for more advice and informa on.

Here’s to a happy and relaxed 2014!

Reflexologists Anne Brunton, Charlo e Perrey and Claire Collins

Our website www.chironcentre.co.uk gives full informa on about all the therapies we offer, so please do look us up, give us a call on 0117 962 0008, or email us on info@chiron.co.uk

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A healthy 2014 for your pet Happy 2014! Christmas has passed and the New Year has begun. It’s a good time to start thinking about keeping yourself and your pet fit and healthy throughout the New Year and taking advantage of any help along the way to motivate you!

With New Year’s resolutions being put in place, let’s work together to make sure that your pet has the highest quality of life and enjoyment for 2014 and that all the New Year resolutions for your pet are fulfilled!

It is important that pets do not just come to the vets when they are unwell or need immediate treatment. Prevention is better than cure in many instances! Westbury Park Veterinary Surgery is proud to offer preventative health care assessments (by appointment) with our experienced Qualified Veterinary Nurse Vicky. Vicky can help you to spot symptoms that could be treated before developing further giving you reassurance that you are offering your pet the best healthcare possible.

We run numerous preventative health clinics to help keep your pet happy and healthy throughout all stages of their life – feel free to give Vicky a ring to discuss these further.

▪ ‘New addition’ clinics ▪ Adolescent clinics ▪ Rabbit/guinea pig health & husbandry clinics

▪ Senior clinics ▪ Dental clinics ▪ Weight & nutrition clinics

Obesity is a real problem in the veterinary world with 1 in 3 of household pets now being overweight. As with humans, obesity can result in all manner of serious health problems for your pet from heart disease, diabetes and arthritis. Overweight pets have a shorter life expectancy by up to 2 years – we can work together to prevent/rectify this. Vicky will be able to advise you about the optimum weight for your pet talk you through the weight management programme and help with general weight maintenance.

Please phone Vicky for further information.

Nb - In some cases Vicky may decide that your pet needs to be referred on to the Veterinary Surgeon. Please contact the surgery to find out more and to book an appointment with her.

We do not charge for these clinics – they are part of the exceptional service we try and deliver for our clients and their patients – but you do need to be registered with us as your vet before accessing these services.

11 North View, Westbury Park, Bristol, BS6 7PT

Tel: 0117 33 55 999 info@animalhousevets.com www.animalhousevets.com

28 NEW YEAR, NEW YOU

Cli on College Sports Centre offers a wide range of spor ng facili es for use by members of the public, and the New Year is the perfect me for you to join up and get ac ve! The Sports Centre is a well‐ established facility, housing a well‐stocked fitness room, 25m swimming pool, indoor badminton and outdoor tennis courts. Chris Wa s, manager of the Sports Centre, says “We all know that regular exercise has huge health benefits, as well as helping people relax, lose weight and shape up. We have an excellent fitness room that has just been refurbished with the latest Precor 880 range of equipment, this state of the art fitness equipment gives the user so many possibili es and really makes the workout experience more enjoyable and interac ve. While this equipment is a fantas c new addi on to our facility, even the most mo vated of fitness‐fana cs could benefit from a change of scene from me‐to‐ me, and having a swimming pool gives people that choice”. Our team of professional, on‐site personal trainers will also encourage you to try a range of different ac vi es un l you find those that best suit your tastes and lifestyle.

Here’s what membership of Cli on College Sports Centre has to offer you: ▪ Fitness room – housing the latest range of

cardio and weight‐training equipment, in a

spacious, airy and welcoming atmosphere

including Sky television on all cardio

machines.

▪ 25m swimming pool ‐ this is kept at 29

degrees cen grade and is accompanied by

well‐equipped changing rooms. We run a

programme of ‘Adults Only’ and ‘Open’ swim

sessions. Also included in the weekly

programme is a Sunday morning fun swim

session for children and their families, with

our once‐a‐month pool inflatable fun session

which is a must for the kids.

▪ Squash, badminton and outdoor tennis

courts bookable up to 2 weeks in advance ▪ Professional Personal Training service – for

those of you who want a more tailored

fitness program or need that extra

mo va on, our dedicated team of personal

trainers are available on site at compe ve

rates

We run a range of flexible memberships including annual and monthly op ons for individuals, couples and families. Our welcoming Sports Centre recep on team would be happy to answer any queries you may have. Alterna vely, you can call us on 0117 315 7678 or visit www.ccsl‐cli oncollege.com

It’s the New Year and it’s me to find the New You! And during January we are not charging any joining on fee!!!

We are also giving all the readers of The Bristol Nine the chance to win an annual membership worth up to £700 by answering this simple ques on?

What is the name of the new state of the art fitness equipment Cli on College Sports Centre have just had installed?

A: Precor 330 B: Precor 880 C: Precor 500

Simply e‐mail your answer with the tle ‘New You Compe on’ along with the contact informa on requested below to ccslrecep on@cli oncollege.com or post your entry to Cli on College Sports Centre, Cli on College, Guthrie Road, Cli on, BS8 3EZ before the closing date of January 31st 2014.

Name………………………………………………………….

Email address………………………………………………..

Telephone Number …………………………………………

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Your Will ‐ is it up to date?

Did you know that only 38‐46% of the popula on have made a Will? If you are one of those who have taken the me to put provisions in place for your estate a er your death, it doesn’t end there. You will need to regularly review your Will to make sure that it is s ll up‐to‐date.

Changes are inevitable throughout life and your personal circumstances may have changed since you made your Will. It is important to make sure that these changes are reflected in your Will. An out‐of‐date Will could end up causing the very same difficul es or disputes that you sought to avoid by making a Will in the first place.

It may be that the details of the beneficiaries in your Will are now incorrect. If beneficiaries have reached 18 years of age, any trust provisions you have in your Will may no longer be appropriate. If beneficiaries have since died, the gi s intended for them may fall back into your estate and be distributed with the residue. Would you be happy for this to happen? If not, you will need to expressly name an alterna ve beneficiary in your Will.

Perhaps the composi on of your estate has changed since you made your Will. Your Will may leave a

specific item (for example, a piece of jewellery) to a par cular beneficiary. If you have since sold or given away that specific item, the gi to that par cular beneficiary will fail to take effect.

Would you be happy for the gi to fail? If not, you would need to expressly refer to an alterna ve or replacement item in your Will.

You may have remarried (which would automa cally revoke your Will), or there may have been changes in your family. These changes might give rise to challenges against your estate and the provisions of your Will. If you have le nothing (or only rela vely small gi s) to certain family members or financial dependants, your estate may face a claim in the future. Do you have concerns about your executors and beneficiaries poten ally facing a costly and distressing inheritance dispute in the future? If so, a review of your Will now could help to avoid this.

Finally, it may be that the provisions in your Will are no longer tax‐efficient. If you have inherited money since making your Will, the value of your estate may have increased. If that is the case, it may be useful to reconsider the distribu on of your assets and review any poten al tax liability. In addi on, and since 2007, any unused inheritance tax nil‐rate band allowances can now be transferred between estates of married couples and civil partners. As a result, a nil‐rate band discre onary

31 trust may no longer be appropriate in your Will. Keeping up‐to‐date with tax law may result in opportuni es to make savings.

At Veale Wasbrough Vizards, our dedicated team can guide you through the process of upda ng your Will, or even making one for the first me. We will comprehensively consider all of your personal circumstances, before advising you on the most tax‐efficient structure to protect against the impact of inheritance tax.

We can also offer specialist advice on what can be sensi ve and difficult issues, including protec ng against claims arising from either divorce or

bankruptcy, as well as wider succession planning issues, such as making life me gi s and ensuring that your personal finances are in order.

Please contact Mary McCrorie, a Partner in the Private Client Team at Veale Wasbrough Vizards on 0117 314 5368 or mmccrorie@vwv.co.uk if you would like a copy of our brochure '5 Good Reasons to Update Your Will' or if you would like further informa on about making a Will.

Mary McCrorie Partner Private Client Team

32 Friends of Blaise I hope that readers who have been following our walk through Blaise were able to spend at least some time walking in the woods over Christmas. Blaise is an excellent place to “walk off” all that excess food and alcohol which you may have consumed over the holiday.

We are following the course of the Hazel Brook as it flows through the Estate. In December we had reached the Beech Cathedral, standing majestically above the carriage drive along which we are walking.

We have climbed away from the Hazel Brook which can now be seen below us, where it is crossed by the Nail Bridge. This bridge was originally a feature in Castle Park in the centre of Bristol and was brought to Blaise to replace the original wooden bridge which was in a very poor condition. If I remember correctly, this was in the 1980’s.

It now provides a link with a steep path leading up to Echo Gate. The verse inscribed on the water wall at the Café was the winner of a competition to find a suitable short verse describing a part of the Estate. The winner chose the Nail Bridge, with the following words:

“and years afterwards you’ll remember That kiss on the bridge where nail heads Glittered like stars under your feet”

Continuing along the carriage drive we pass a small rustic rubble bridge leading off to the right and turning a sharp corner come to the Lily Pond, which was built sometime between 1840 and 1881. There is no evidence that a formal planting plan was implemented for the Pond, but there are clumps of bamboo and redwoods. There is a large Wellingtonia between the pond and the carriageway.

During the Heritage Lottery Fund restoration in 2006 the pond was completely de‐silted and new lilies planted. Unfortunately, due to financial constraints, it has been allowed to deteriorate once again. The original design fits very well into the surrounding landscape and marks the point where the Hazel Brook leaves the woods, after having been diverted around the edge of the pond.

As we leave the Lily Pond the drive crosses another small rustic bridge constructed in 1812 as part of the scheme to create a carriage drive from the Mansion House through to Coombe Dingle. This bridge is listed grade 2 by English Heritage.

We are now coming to the end of The Hazel Brook as it joins the river Trym at Waters Meet, to then turn sharp right and flow down to the River Avon at Sea Mills Harbour.

This area is now the attractively named Coombe Dingle. Dingle meaning a wooded hollow or dell, and Coombe a deep narrow valley.

You have now walked about one and a half miles through some spectacular scenery and still within the City boundary.

Perhaps next month we can explore some of the lesser known areas of the Estate.

If you enjoy Blaise, have a look at our website for further information about The Friends.

www.friendsofblaise.co.uk

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“Caring for a loved one can be an emotional and stressful time full of uncertainties. For that reason we have been chatting to local people here in BS9 and asking them what concerns and issues they might have when considering home care as an alternative to residential care. Here are our thoughts on some more of the most commonly held questions that the team here at Bluebird Care are asked.”

‐ Cameron MacLeod, Director "Would the carer need, or be able, to have their own key to my father's property so they can let themselves in?"

Our carers never carry keys for customers homes. They will ring or knock and wait to be admitted by the customer or a family member or friend. Alternatively many of our customers who are not able to get to the door easily have a keysafe fitted on the exterior of their house.

Our carers will be able to access keys by this method and then be able to admit themselves in to the customers home.

"Can your carers collect and deliver prescriptions?"

Yes they can collect and deliver prescriptions if required, and of course they are trained to prompt and administer most medications in the home also.

"All my dad really needs is a bit of company ‐ is that something you can arrange?"

Yes, company is often all a person wants and we have a friendly team who will be happy to provide that company. Many of our carers feedback that this is what they like most about

the job. We appreciate that often we are the only friendly faces that a customer may see on a day to day basis and we value that opportunity to make that persons day better.

"Do your carers just attend the person's house? Would you be able to take him out for a couple of hours, for lunch for example?"

We would be delighted to take your Dad out if that’s what he wants. Our Carers are fully insured to take people out in their cars and we can arrange visits to pretty much whatever the customer wants. Some customers ask to be taken to the seaside, or for coffee or maybe an event such as “singing for the brain”. Our aim is to enable our customers to live more enjoyable, fulfilling lives.

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38 Codeword Time with Teazel

Each letter of the alphabet corresponds with a number from 1 to 26, but they are not in order.

You are given three letter/ number matches to start with, as shown in the smaller grid below. Insert these letters into the correspondingly numbered squares in the larger codeword grid and you are on your way.

No prizes ‐ answers are on page 94

If you like the puzzle why not check out Teazel in your app store?

Get more on your mobile & tablet. Search for 'Teazel' in your app store ‐ © Teazel Ltd 2013

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46 Enjoy your winter garden For some people January /February can be a 'boring time' of the year, but think again!

There's lots going on. Make yourself a cuppa, pull up a comfy chair and just stare out of the window....there's lots of life out there to look at!!

Trees Trees may look 'dead' but of course there's actually life in them. Many are dormant but already have leaf buds developing which will burst open in a few weeks time when spring arrives.

Just watch how the warmth of the early spring sunshine encourages them to produce shiny new leaves and reshape the tree for the next season. I love the different silhouette shapes of the trees against the wintery skies.

Flowers It is truly amazing that when we are tucked up in our warm homes all snug and warm, there are brave little flowers peeping through the freezing soil, adorning our gardens and parks with a splash of colour. Pansies and violas, cyclamen, hellebores, snowdrops and crocus to name a few. How do they survive those chilly frosts and occasional snowfalls?

Birds Without doubt this is a wonderful reason to just sit and look out of your window. Depending on where you live determines the type of birds you will see. The darker days of winter means less time for birds to find food, so it's important that we consider helping these special creatures survive by feeding them and maybe learn more about their habits and behaviours.

There is plenty of information on websites such

as RSPB (Royal Society for the Protection of Birds) and BTO (British Trust of Ornithology).

One reason why we as a family enjoy bird watching is to take part in the Big Garden Birdwatch at the end of every January. Its fun to sit quietly together and watch what is happening in ones own 'back yard'. This year it is on 25th and 26th January2014. More details available on the RSPB website. Do take a peek, and if you do take part the pictures here might help you out.

Ideas for what to feed your garden birds

...good quality seed mixes to include sunflower seeds, nyjer seeds and millet

...bread, pastry, potato and bacon rind...all chopped into small pieces

...dried fruits such as currants, raisins and sultanas

...fresh fruit, apples, pears and coconut. Best cut into pieces

...rice, any type but well cooked without salt

...mild cheese, best grated

...porridge oats

...fatballs maybe make your own! Melt some lard or suet, (it can be quite smelly... be warned!) add some seeds, dried fruits and oatmeal and stir. Pour into a mould (an empty margarine tub or yogurt pot is ideal) until set.

Place on bird table or hang from a tree branch.

Lastly, it's very important to also provide clean fresh water for the birds

Do enjoy the birds which live around you and think about feeding them. Just think of your bird table as a bird restaurant and vary the foodstuffs you put out for them so they don't get bored with the menu ‐ otherwise they may fly off to someone else's restaurant!!

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57 Release your inner thespian It must be almost five years ago I first encountered Alison Mazanec at her adult drama classes ‐ I’d been invited to pop along and see a class in action. With what I now know is her customary enthusiasm and encouraging manner I was soon taking part, and by the end of the hour I’d fallen for the enjoyment and fun of the session. I’ve barely missed a week since and her Thursday night class is a weekly highlight.

This isn’t drama in terms of putting on shows and learning lengthy scripts, no it is much less formal and relaxed than that and hugely enjoyable as result. The hour class is a mixture of improvised silliness, excerpts from plays (we’ve just done a bit from A Christmas Carol), a little voice, breathing and posture work but overall 60 minutes of terrific enjoyment and fun. Our group, which numbers anything from

ten to two dozen on the night, is a really friendly (some might say slightly mad) group of gents and ladies from twenty‐somethings to “more mature” students (in in the middle at 49). There’s no “luvvies” just a group of local people keen to have fun, learn a little, boost their confidence and generally find pleasure in, and through, drama. We also hold occasional theatre and comedy nights ( a West End trip is being planned) and the odd beverage in the pub.

Vicky, Sophie, Traycee and Shane being bored teenagers If you want more details do get in touch with Alison on 0117 900 1602 ‐ she is an absolute star and will welcome you in her little antipodean arms like a long lost friend. Hope to see you!

58 Computer Corner with Mrs PC - Advice on Passwords Passwords are an essential, if annoying part of interacting with the Internet. They are needed with great regularity and many people find it difficult to remember their passwords, or struggle to create a strong one. There are also concerns about writing them down in case they are discovered and used fraudulently.

Many people get help from family or friends to set up email or log into programmes like Skype or Facebook, and to make life easier for the novice user, the helpers save the password in the computer. Many Internet browsers offer this possibility. This is an acceptable thing to do, but problems arise when that password is needed and there is no record of it. You can usually reset passwords, but it is time consuming and a complication, which frustrates infrequent users of the Internet.

So if you are getting help, make sure that the person helping you writes down what they have done. I suggest a little notebook, which you keep by the side of your computer and jot things in as you go along, and note down all your passwords inside. Keep the book hidden from view when not in use!

I recommend that you protect your computer by using a password to log on to your computer. This will be the first one you will have to learn. It protects your computer from being accessed by others, and is very useful to stop children or grandchildren messing about and changing things on it!

All your passwords should be different. You must not use the password you log in to your computer for any other website. Do not use the same one for every website. Your passwords should ideally be 8 characters long and a combination of letters, numbers, special characters and upper and lower case letters. Think of a word that is special to you and add your favourite numbers to it, with a capital somewhere in that word‐ it doesn’t have to be at the beginning! A symbol like an exclamation mark or an & or £ sign are also good to add. Some people like to use a phrase‐ it could be a favourite

song for example: “Nelly the elephant packed her trunk and said goodbye to the circus”. You would take the first letter from each word and get Ntephtasgttc, to which you could add some numbers and get a very strong password. There are programmes you can use which will create passwords for you.

One of you most important passwords is the one to access your email. This one is not so obvious if you use an email client rather than webmail as it is usually saved on your computer and not needed until you have an issue such as being hacked. I do recommend you find out what your email password is so that you can use webmail if you wish and you can change the password to your email every so often. BT Internet/yahoo is one of the most frequently hacked email addresses.

If you want to shop online and be able to return to that website, and save all your details, you will need to create a password. This makes shopping quicker and easier. It is safe to store your credit card as well as long as the web address reads Https:// at the beginning. The “s” stands for “safe”. The most widely used websites like Amazon, John Lewis and Marks and Spencer will be safe for you to store your password.

If you have a smartphone, use the App called “The Vault”. You can keep your passwords in there and they are all encrypted. You access them with… you guessed it… another password‐ a 5 digit number code.

Passwords will keep you safe if you use them properly. Don’t be complacent about them. If you have used the same one for all your websites, and email, do go into your account and change them!

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62 The Downs Recorder The Ash trees of the Downs.

A year ago there was a national panic about Ash Die Back Disease, since when, silence. That does not mean the threat has gone away; the disease has been detected near Minehead, so it is coming this way, but it has also become clear that it is not an instant killer, and possibly that it is not as virulent as feared.

There are a large number of ash trees on the Downs, and almost every one of them is self‐ sown. In most years they produce millions of seeds, and few birds or animals seem to eat them. They germinate in thousands every year, but they only grow fast if they have plenty of light. They dominate the slopes of the Gorge, have grown up all round the Clifton Camp, and form a small wood near Sea Walls. As a species they are present in every part of the Downs except the soccer pitches, and are more widespread than almost any other species except Hawthorn, Ivy and White Clover. And if all these were to die the Downs landscape would look very different.

There are about a dozen trees that are more than 150 years old‐ i.e were wild trees when the Downs Act was passed. Three of them are now stumps, trees that have had to be cut right back for safety, but are still alive, in the Westbury Park area. One, near Ladies Mile, has had to be surrounded with warming tape because it is very rotten, but has been used for

some years by Green Woodpeckers.

The oldest is probably one of the trees in the ashwood near Ivywell Road with a huge trunk, which splits into two at about eight feet, and has been pollarded in recent years, but is still a fine tree. It is over four metres in circumference. There are several others nearby which could not be measured‐ one of which was used two years ago by three pairs of Rooks.

Another fine tree stands on its own, near Ladies Mile and has a marked lean to the north, and it is much the biggest tree in the area, and is also almost four metres around. These are all common Ashes. There is also a Manna Ash near the Ranger’s pound, which is often called the Flowering Ash as it has huge clumps of white flowers in the spring. And there is a very young Slender‐leaf Ash near Ladies Mile which, in a good autumn turns a magnificent purple colour, though this year it was rather dull.

Common Ashes often turn a fine yellow in Autumn, but not this year when they all dropped their leaves when they were still green.

And if they do all die, at least I have measured and recorded the best of them.

If you enjoy the Downs, or use if for your sport, why not become a Friend? Membership is just £10.

Contact Robin Haward at robinhaward@blueyonder.co.uk 0117 974 3385

Richard Bland

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Student Life ‐ It may not be as expensive as you think

This is the last ar cle on Student Life. Over the past few months I have looked at how to plan and budget, having a 2nd bank account as ‘a feeder’, money saving ideas and how student loans work; if and when you have to repay them. This month I will conclude with some of the help which is available to students that incredibly o en goes unclaimed. Students and

parents should always remember that “If you don’t ask, you don’t get”. There really is nothing to lose but so much to gain by simply enquiring about support.

How to cut the cost of student life?

1.

Not all universi es charge the same –

research them

2.

For some this may not be an op on ‐

but if the course you want is in your

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home town maybe staying at home for

a few more years is not as horrific as

you might first think!

3.

If you have an ability to speak a

language, courses abroad can be

cheaper. Travel bug, independence, cost

savings all solved in one go!

Government Support

▪ Maintenance Grant. This is a means

tested benefit where support is

available if household income is less

than £42,611 (2013/14). The benefit is

on a sliding scale up to as much as

£3,354.

▪ Disabled Students Grant – if you have a

registered disability – physical or mental

you could get help.

▪ Teaching Grant – Training to be a

teacher? There are grants available.

▪ Travel Grant – Do you have to be on a

course which involves a lot of travel?

Grants are available.

Charitable Grants

Research Charitable Trusts. There are hundreds suppor ng students in the UK.

Student Bursaries ▪ Provided by the University or College.

▪ Ask them about – Access to Learning

Fund or perhaps the Na onal

Scholarship Programme

Treeschool Gardens Arborists Terry McGovern 40 Wessex Avenue, Horfield, Bristol, BS7 0DB

Tel: 0117 952 2475 / 07974 715 099 terry@treeschool.co.uk www.treeschool.co.uk

Hedges trims, grass cut, shrubs pruned, Hedges trimmed, shrubs pruned Tree maintenance. (Qualified tree surgeon).

Free quota ons, no job too small.

Chainsaw & tree climbing courses.

▪ NHS Bursary – Studying to be a nurse or

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Scholarships

Gi ed at something? If so it could make a difference financially

Sponsorships

Want to work in a par cular field? Private Companies may sponsor you.

Finally, if you are a student reading this and struggling each month then maybe talking it through with family is a good idea. It’s a be er idea than ge ng more into debt. Just chose your moment carefully and dare I say – the run up to Christmas or January may not be the best me!

Phil James Grosvenor Consultancy Figures Sourced from: www.gov.uk/student‐ finance/loans‐and‐grants as at November 2013

66 Tara’s Table - Cookery with Tara Hofman I hope you’ve all had a very merry Christmas and are looking forward to a fun and prosperous new year. What does a new year mean for you?

Personally, I’m not one for new year’s resolutions. I’d much rather dwell on the feelings of positivity and optimism that the new year brings and the excitement of what it has in store. For me, it’s more of the same: being happy, building my business and eating and cooking good food with the changing seasons, and always trying out new ways to cook things.

In terms of produce, January is always a bit of a lean month and one in which we are feeling a bit like our waistline and our credit card have taken a battering, so perhaps we should all be a bit abstemious?

This is the time to turn to Kale, that fibrous, leafy green veg that is probably overlooked, misunderstood and definitely far more versatile than you might imagine. Here are three ways to cook it, or not. Kale is low in calories, high in fibre and has zero fat. Its stalks are thick and take much longer to cook than the leaves, so try to buy it in bunches from your local greengrocers, rather than chopped in bags at the supermarket. The best way to prepare it is to break off each stalk, then pinch at the bottom of the stalk and strip the leaves off in one go; discard the stalks or, if you are really serious, you could make a smoothie out of them.

Raw kale salad Strip the leaves from the kale as described above, and shred it as fine as possible. Make a dressing with finely chopped garlic, lemon zest and lemon juice, salt, pepper & olive oil. Toss

the kale in the dressing and give it about 30 minutes to marinade before eating. Mix in some fresh coriander at the last minute. This would be great with some grilled mackerel or salmon and makes a super healthy meal.

Kale bruschetta (serves 2) Finely slice a couple of cloves of garlic and fry until soft, but not browned, in olive oil, add half a teaspoon of crushed fennel seeds. Cook four generous handfuls of roughly chopped kale leaves in a large pan of boiling, salted water for about 5‐7 minutes, until tender. Drain and toss with the garlic, fennel seeds and olive oil. Serve on a piece of toasted piece of sourdough bread with a handful of chopped green olives and a squeeze of lemon juice.

This makes a great snack for lunchtime

A vibrant green sauce for pasta This is one of my favourites and is so quick to do when your fridge seems empty. Cook the kale leaves in plenty of salted boiling water for about 5‐7 minutes, until tender. Drain, reserving a little bit of the cooking liquor and whizz in the food processor with a good squeeze of lemon juice and extra virgin olive oil.

Let it down with some of the cooking liquor and check for seasoning. It’s really good with penne pasta and grated parmesan.

P.S. I’m really excited as this year begins because I will be making an appearance on Channel 4’s new series, The Taste, which airs on Tuesday 7th January. I was selected from 1,000s of applicants and 300 auditionees to be one of 25 hopefuls to cook for Nigella Lawson, Anthony Bourdain and Los Angeles Chef/ Restaurateur Ludo Lefebvre. Don’t forget to tune in to Channel 4 on Tuesday 7th January at 9pm to catch a glimpse of me and see how I get on.

Happy New Year!

(See more about Tara’s table on page 43)

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69 Gardeners Corner with Cathy Lewis - Creating Winter Interest It’s all too tempting to put your garden to bed for the winter and ignore it until spring, but they can look breathtaking at this time of year.

The secret of a successful winter garden is to use cleverly placed evergreens and to leave interesting flower heads and grasses to die down naturally.

Evergreens are the unsung heroes of every garden. They may lack the wow factor of flowers or autumn leaves but they really come into their own once everything else has faded. Some even smell wonderful too, like Sarcococca confusa (or Christmas box), whose modest flowers belie its delicious scent.

Festooned with spider’s webs they can sparkle in the sun as though encrusted with diamonds.

Ornamental grasses may be past their best but they still offer height and movement in the winter garden, swaying and rustling with every puff of wind.

Their subtle golds and russets look really spectacular back‐lit by the sun’s rays. Two of my favourite grasses are the tall, transparent Stipa gigantea (top) and frothy‐plumed Miscanthus sinensis (right) , both of which will hold your attention until the arrival of spring

Tree barks can look spectacular, particularly in the subdued winter light. The white‐stemmed West Himalayan birch (Betula utilis var. jacquemontii) is a favourite with garden designers, and with good reason. Its ghostly, almost luminescent bark and architectural form make it striking both with and without leaves.

Don’t be tempted to cut all your herbaceous plants to the ground.

Plants with tall stems and interesting seed heads like Phlomis russeliana create wonderful silhouettes lit up by dew or ice after a hoar frost.

The magical effects of a sharp frost at the University of Bristol Botanic Garden Cathy Lewis Dip. PSGD Cathy Lewis Gardens & Design Professional garden design, consultancy and maintenance. Tel: 07985 008 585 www.cathylewisgardens.co.uk

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72 Westbury Christmas Fair I just wanted to pass on huge thanks to the organising committee behind the WoT Business Association “Colours of Christmas Fair” that took place last month in Westbury, and especially the driving forces behind it, Venita Vicary and Pat Rodway. The event was being held for the first time and was a terrific success, despite the inclement weather late in the afternoon and some battles with the road closures. That said, the event helped raised a significant amount of money towards to the WoT Christmas Lights appeal, the results of which I hope you have spotted and enjoyed, and gave a lot of pleasure to the big crowds who turned up.

As the rains set in the Committee adjourned to Grupo Lounge to make the draw for the 24 raffle prizes kindly donated by many generous local companies, including the first prize of new laptop provided by Smart Computers on the High Street.

Here is Neil McGrath receiving his prize from Craig at Smart Computers.

The full list of prizewinners was:‐ Neil McGrath, S. Young, Steve Smith, Debbie Pritchard, Mr (s) Chapman, Chris Janiak, C. Casey, Vanilla Gifts, Patsy Page, Vicky Smith, Nicky Scott, Margaret Bristow, Yvonne Devereux, Jill Carter, Michelle Wood, G Harman, Loretta Yeatman, Tony Kirk, Viv Sanders, Andy Jones, Mel Ward, Lena Peygate, Viv Corigan and Julie Derry. If you are one of these people and haven’t yet been contacted by the WOTBA team do let me know here at the Bristol Nine and I’ll put you in touch.

Special thanks are also due to Kevin at McCarthy Skip Hire for the free use of a skip, and especially the cadets from 2442 (WoT) Squadron.

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74 Elmlea Junior School Hi 5 Netball Tournaments Bristol University Indoor Sports Centre was again the venue for the annual junior Hi 5 tournaments. On Friday November 8th it was the turn of the Year 6 children to compete for their trophy. A total of 10 schools accepted the invitation to take part, so a round‐robin event meant that 25 matches had to be completed in a 3 hour time slot, a busy afternoon !

From the early exchanges it became obvious this was going to be a competitive afternoon.

The teamwork, passing and shooting was proof that the children had been practicing hard. In the 2 different leagues St Bonaventures and Elmlea set the pace winning their early matches and throughout the leagues goals rained in. Elmlea 9, St Bonaventures 7 twice, Bishop Road 7, SS Peter and Paul 6, and Henleaze 6 were among the high scorers.

The afternoon culminated with the play off matches between the schools in their final positions in their respective leagues. The match determining the tournament winners was between Elmlea and St Bonaventures, but as has been proven over the last two years St Bonaventures proved too strong, winning 5 – 0.

Another tremendous display to complete a hat‐ trick of tournament wins.

Congratulations to St Bonaventures year 6

On Friday 22nd November 48 very excited Y4 children from six local schools (Elmlea, Henleaze, St.John’s, St Teresa’s, Bishop Road and Torwood House) gathered for their afternoon of netball and showed not only enormous enthusiasm for the game but also great skill! It was an afternoon aimed at promoting Hi 5 Netball and engaging children in a great game that they will learn from and enjoy.

This was the first match experience for many of the children and as the afternoon progressed so did their knowledge of the game. Footwork and positioning improved as did the ability to find a space and defend well. The University Netball squad umpired the matches with careful explanations about calls thus also helping to improve player knowledge without denting confidence.

The games all got off to a great start and Elmlea cheered on by their parents on the balcony were no exception. Elmlea won the first match against Bishop Road 2 – 0 which spurred them on to beat Henleaze in the next round 8 – 0. Confidence was high and with some accurate shooting and strong defence, Elmlea continued their success against St. Theresa’s and St.John’s. Meanwhile in the other matches Torwood House were also proving hard to beat. Whilst not winning all their matches the children from the other schools, Bishop Road, Henleaze, St John’s and St Teresas were also enjoying playing competitive matches.

The deciding match was indeed Elmlea against Torwood House and it turned out to be a game of two halves! Both teams were closely matched, but Torwood House held a 2‐0 lead at half time. Elmlea buoyed by a half time talk that worked wonders, bounced back on court fully energised, and came storming back scoring 4 second half goals.

The final result was…Torwood House 2 Elmlea 4.

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The victorious Elmlea Year 4 team

For the first time in the history of the Tournaments, Elmlea had managed to take 1st place, they had won all their matches. It was a well deserved victory from a talented group of players who I am sure will go from strength to strength.

Over the course of the 2 tournaments over 120 children were able to enjoy a great afternoon of sport and all received a medal to mark their

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participation. Again the tournament organisers are indebted to the following, without their help and sponsorship these tournaments wouldn’t be so successful:

Elmlea Junior School for organising and funding the tournament, all the school teachers and supporting parents (from Bishop Road, Colston’s, Elmlea, Henleaze, Torwood House, St Teresas, SS Peter and Paul, Stoke Bishop, St John’s, Westbury Park and St Bonaventures), Bristol University Netball Club for umpiring and scoring, and Ikon Sports for providing all the trophies and medals.

Ikon Sports provides sports clothing, team kits and equipment for clubs, colleges, universities, sports academies, schools and individuals.

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76

Winter Offer 25% Off all work between Nov 13 and Feb 14

77

07795 490 834 / 0800 840 7127

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GARDEN TRAPPINGS Happy New Year!

Do call by for help and advice with all your gardening problems. Brighten up the cold season with our hanging baskets, seasonal flowers, primroses, winter‐flowering pansies and more, and before you know it we’ll have our spring range in.

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79

80 What’s On & Community Events Listings for community events, not for profit clubs and charitable activities are free. If you have something that you would like listed please get in touch with Andy by telephoning on 0117 9687787 or 07845986650 or emailing me your notice, in Word or email format, not in PDF format, to andy@bcmagazines.co.uk (strict maximum sixty words).

The deadline for listings in the March 2014 magazine is 15th February ‐ any received after that date will be held over until the April 2014. There is no February issue of The Bristol Nine,

Saturday 25th January at 7.30pm. St. Peter`s Church in Henleaze is holding its second annual quiz in the Church Hall. Up to 15 teams, made up of six to eight people, will take part, and the entry fee of £10 per person includes a curry supper. Last year the quiz attracted more than 100 people and raised £600 for the hall refurbishment fund. Details are available from Jackie Pinder at 07967739595.

Jumble and Book Sale February 8th stating at 10am in Westbury‐on‐Trym Methodist Church Hall. Proceeds to the World Church. Coffee served. Admission £1.

Saturday Organ Elevenses at Holy Trinity Parish Church will be as follows:‐ Jan. 11th, Andrew Kirk, Director of Music at St. Mary Redcliffe Church and an accomplished recitalist; Feb. 8th, Eric Tyson, Bristol‐based organist playing at All Saints Clifton on occasions; Mar. 8th, Peter Robertson from Fillongley, Coventry. Come at 10‐30 am to enjoy luscious cake and real coffee, then take your seat for a short recital at 11. See the organists on the big screen and enjoy listening to different repertoires. Suggested donation £5, children free.

This year's Annual Art Exhibition & Sale will be

held at Stoke Bishop Village Hall, Stoke Hill, on 1 March 2014 from 10.30 am to 4pm. As usual, there will be lots of affordable art in a variety of media ‐ paintings, drawings, ceramics, textiles & enamels displaying the talents of local artists. Admission is free, with refreshments available all day. FFI Contact ‐ stokebishophallbookings@yahoo.co.uk

Wot Pots' Little Potters after school club ‐ A new pottery club that will be offering a range of inspirational and fun pottery activities to children in school years 3‐6. Every Wednesday 3.45 ‐ 5.15 starting Nov 27th. For enquires and to join Please call Jenny on 07527 957237, email jenny@wotpots.co.uk or www.wotpots.co.uk

Bristol Cabot Probus Club for retired and semi‐ retired professional and business men to maintain contact and fellowship with people of similar interests. Meets Third Wednesday each month in BAWA Club Southmead Rd, for lunch followed by a speaker on a wide range of interesting subjects. Extensive programme of social events including holidays, day trips, Sunday lunches and skittles to which ladies and friends are welcomed. We are principally a social meeting place and not based on charitable activities. Interested? Contact John Howard‐Cairns on 0117 968 3134 for more details.

Westbury on Trym Women’s Institute meets on the 3rd Monday of the month (not in August) in the Methodist Church Hall, WOT (next to the car park) at 2.00pm. We have a programme of varied speakers, outings, discussions etc. New members and visitors always welcome. For more information please contact: Sue Murphy – Tel: 01179502826.

Do join us for Parish lunch at St Mary’s Church Stoke Bishop, every Thursday from 12.15. 3 course buffet lunch, tea and coffee. £3.50.

Civil Service Retirement Fellowship. The Westbury‐on‐Trym group welcomes all retired Civil Servants and their spouses to their meetings held on the first Thursday of the

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82 What’s On & Community Events month at Studland Court, Henleaze Road at 2.00pm. Those people without a civil service background are welcome to join our group as Friends of the Fellowship. For more info phone Beryl Webb on 01454 614451.

North West Bristol Camera Club (NWBCC). We are an enthusiastic group of amateur photographers who meet each Wednesday at 7:45pm at Westbury Fields. The first meeting in 2014 will be on 8th January when there will be a photographic talk on New Zealand. New members of any level of ability are most welcome. For details contact Pete on 07870 589555.

Bristol Anglo Hellenic Society meet Wed 12th Jan:‐ 'From Homer To Hollywood Ancient Greece in the Cinema" and Wed 12th Feb:‐ "Pavlopetrie The Underwater City" Venue 7:30pm Lecture Theatre 2 Arts Complex 3‐5 Woodland Road BS8 1TB (Corner of Tyndale Park) Refreshments available. See website http://www.bristolanglohellenic.co.uk/ for more details.

The Bristol & Gloucestershire Archaeological Society: The next Winter Lecture will be given on Monday 27th January at 7.45 pm in the Apostle Room in the basement of Clifton Cathedral Pembroke Road, Clifton, BS8 when Dr Nigel Baker from Herefordshire Archaeology will talk on “Medieval buildings of the western English towns”, specifically Shrewsbury, Worcester, Hereford, Gloucester and Bristol.

Sea Mills Garden Club have regular monthly meetings, every 3rd Wednesday, held at Sea Mills Methodist Rooms, Sea Mills Square at 7.30 pm. Our forthcoming programme of talks is :‐ 15 January, Robert Buck ‐ The Flowers of St Georges Lower Bank; 19 February, Ian Ramsey ‐ Walking the Great Wall of China; 19 March, Bob Brown ‐ So Many Plants so Little Space

(This is our 'celebrity' talk and we will therefore be charging visitors £5 on that evening).

Visitors always welcome at £2 per meeting.

Hope to see you there. FFI contact Gail Mitchell 0117 9685350 or Esme James 0117 9682571

Instep Club for Widows and Widowers weekly on Wednesday evenings 8.00‐10.30pm at Stoke Bishop Village Hall, Stoke Hill. New members welcome. Ballroom and Sequence dancing (If you haven’t danced for a long time, don’t worry, we will help you).

Refreshments, social activities. Please telephone Mary on 968 3170 or Wilma on 962 8895 for further information.

Westbury‐on‐Trym Probus Club provide a meeting point for retired and semi‐retired professional and business men, to promote social well being through friendship, companionship and discussion. The club meets on the third Thursday of every month at BAWA, Southmead Road, from 12 midday. If you are interested in joining then please contact the secretary by telephone 0117 9684270 or by email: graham.horne5@btinternet.com.

The Probus Club of Bristol for semi or retired Professional Business men, meet on the fourth Tuesday of each month at BAWA, Southmead Road. At these meetings we have a three course lunch with a speaker. In addition there is a substantial programme of social events to which our Ladies are invited to participate. If you are interested in joining our club, please contact our Membership Secretary Martin Harker on 01275 857324 or E Mail probusbristol@hotmail.co.uk.

For more information, including past reports on events and our current programme, visit our web site www.bristolprobus.org.uk

Rotary Club of Bristol Northwest. We meet every 1st and 3rd Wednesday as well as any 5th ones that come along and base ourselves at Henbury Golf Club. Meetings usually start with a meal at 7.30pm followed by a speaker or occasional other social events. Guests and new

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84 What’s On & Community Events members are always welcome at our meetings.

Current charities we support include Bristol Area Stroke Foundation and the Pahar Trust Nepal – building schools in remote parts of the Himalayas. For further details please visit www.bristolnorthwestrotary.org or contact the club secretary on suketar@btinternet.com.

Retired Professional Engineers' Club (Bristol) is a non‐profit making club that arranges regular events for retired professional engineers, whatever their background. Guests will be made most welcome, with a notional charge to cover the cost of tea and biscuits. Talks normally start at 14.00 in St Peter's Church Hall, Henleaze, BS9 4LD, on the second Wednesday of the month. Further information on membership on our web‐site: www.rpec.co.uk or call Julian on 0117 968 2824.

Henleaze Townswomen's Guild meet on the first Wednesday of the month (except August) at St Peter's Church Hall, The Drive, Henleaze.

Lady visitors are always most welcome to these, and all meetings. Further details can be obtained by ringing Jean Wickham on 0117 9624466.

Westbury‐on‐Trym Townswomen's Guild meets at 2.15pm at Westbury Village Hall, 1 Eastfield Road, Westbury‐on‐Trym on the second Monday in each month. We have speakers, whist, table tennis, discussion and social events. New members and visitors welcome. Please contact Anne Trathen, Chairman, on 962 4256 or Margaret Smith, Secretary on 924 1728.

Stoke Bishop Townswomen's Guild ‐ WE ARE MOVING ‐ as from the JANUARY MEETING we shall meet in the HULBERT ROOM, ST MARY MAGDALENE CHURCH, MARINER'S DRIVE, Stoke Bishop. The date for the January meeting ONLY is the 16th, in February it will

revert to the 1st Thursday, do come and visit us in the new venue, free of charge. Entry is via the pathway to the left of the steps in Mariner's Drive, you will be most welcome. Further details from 9683671 or 9685638.

The next meeting of the Bristol Philatelic Society is Thursday, 9th January starting at 7.15p.m. at the United Reform Church, Whiteladies Road. This is a Members' meeting when items of interest, queries and new acquisitions are shown, with the Geoffrey Ford 1 sheet competition. On Thursday, 23rd January there is a display of Registered Mail from the Straits Settlements. Thursday, 13th February is a Social Philately display about the Explorers of the West Coast of South Island, New Zealand. This meeting starts at 7.15 p.m. Also on February 27th we have a members afternoon meeting starting at 2.0 p.m. 13th March is a competition night whilst 27th March is a display on Advertising through the Post, starting at 7.15 p.m. For further information: John Roe 0145 477 6975.

Like making Airfix models? The Avon Branch of the International Plastic Modellers Society meets on the third Wednesday of every month at the BAWA club on Southmead Road at 8.00pm. New members are always very welcome. For more information contact Andy White on 0117 3300288 or visit www.ipmsavon.org.uk .

Bristol Mahjong Club meets every Thursday 2‐ 5pm at The Eastfield Inn, Henleaze Road . Experienced players and beginners welcome. British Mahjong Rules. Please contact Lee ‐ Mob: 0790 567 2979 or neeliej@hotmail.co.uk.

Stoke Lodge History and Archaeology Group meet on the first Thursday of every month at the Friends Meeting House in Hampton Road at 7.30pm. We have speakers on a varied range of topics, many of which have a strong emphasis on local history. New members are always made very welcome. For further details please contact Annette Martin on 0117 979

85

New Year Sale 40% off when we reopen after Christmas on Monday 6th January Vanilla can be found at 47 High Street, Westbury on Trym, just past the Post Office, opposite Woods Estate Agents 0117 909 9550 www.vanillagifts.co.uk

86 What’s On & Community Events 3209.

The Bristol Branch of the English Speaking Union welcomes guests to their meetings which are held in the Apostle Room of Clifton Cathedral at 7.15 p.m. for 7.45 p.m. There is ample parking and entrance is £3. The aim of the English Speaking Union is to encourage friendship and global understanding through English. Wed 15th January : Final of the Schools Public Speaking Competition at QEH, 5.30 for 6 which involves Redmaids, QEH, St. Katherine's and Cotham. Tuesday 21st Nick Gargan, the Chief Constable of Somerset and Avon Police, will be talking on “The Challenges of Running a Police Force”. Wed. 5th February Bishop Mike Hill, Bishop of Bristol, will be talking on “The Challenges of the Church Today”. March 6 “High in Hope ‐ what Bristol will be like in 40 years’ time” with John Savage.

All welcome (£5 entry for non‐members). Do come along to any of our meetings, preferably by telephoning the Chairman, Tony Williams on 2393187 or the Secretary, Jenny Haines, on 9628075.

Henbury Singers, a non‐audition choir, meets on Thursday evenings from 7.40 to 9.15 pm in Stoke Bishop CE Primary, Cedar Park. We sing mainly choral music from the classical tradition but also carols, folk songs, gospel and modern.

Please contact Mary Whittington secretary@henburysingers.org or Frank Gibson – frank@henburysingers.org, check our website www.henburysingers.org or simply drop in on a Thursday evening.

West Bristol Orchestra. A Chamber Orchestra, playing a wide range of Classical Music arranged for the smaller orchestra, meets at the United Reformed Church, Muller Road on Thursdays 7.15pm.to 9.15pm. Additional String players of Grade5+ standard welcomed. Previous experience of orchestral playing is not essential. For more information,

please contact the Secretary on (0117) 968 3998.

The Henleaze Garden Club is a thriving club for anyone interested in anything to do with gardening ! With a healthy membership of 200, this friendly club meets the first Wednesday of each month in the main hall at St Monica's, Cote Lane, with a summer break when the club arranges coach trips. We invite expert speakers, produce a quarterly newsletter, have an annual plant sale and great Christmas event.

Annual individual membership is £20 plus a £1 per visit, visitors are most welcome at £5 per visit, both to include refreshments and raffle.

Please see www.henleazegardenclub.co.uk or contact Jane Voke 9622440 for more info.

Henleaze & District Flower Club meets on the second and fourth Thursdays of the month at Bradbury Hall, Waterford Road in Henleaze.

Flower demonstrations are held on the second Thursday and practice classes on the fourth Thursday. New members are always welcome ‐ just come along and join in.

Ray Bridge Club meet every Tuesday 6.30pm to 9pm at the Sea Mills Methodist Church, Shirehampton Road (new venue) for social rubber bridge. New members always welcome.

Please ring 942 7760 or 968 2652 for further details.

Country Market. Every Friday morning from 10.30 to 11.30 in Westbury on Trym Methodist Church Hall. Homemade cakes, arts, crafts, plants, vegetables, jams and chutneys.

Refreshments are also available in a relaxed and friendly environment. For more details contact Sue Sills on 9628306.

West of England Bridge Club meets for duplicate bridge on Monday, Wednesday and Friday at The Golden Hill Sports Club, Wimbledon Road from 7.30pm ‐ 10.30pm. New members and visitors always welcome. £4 per evening for members, £5 for non‐members, special rates for juniors/unemployed. Licensed bar. For further details of the club or lessons

87

‐ mes to be arrang

ed

NICE

THINGS

FOR NICE HOMES I offer a high quality personal making ‐up service for made to measure so ‐furnishings ‐ Curtains Blinds Cushion Covers and other so furnishings For a compe ve quote please phone Jill on 07817 540 730 to discuss your requirements

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What’s On & Community Events please contact Gareth Evans on 07921 788 605, email enquiries@woebc.co.uk or visit www.woebc.co.uk.

Social Bridge, every Tuesday at 7.30 p.m. at Stoke Bishop Village Hall. New members welcome. Tel Chris on 968 5640.

Westbury Art Club meet every Thursday evenings between 7 and 9pm at The Greenway Centre, Doncaster Road, Southmead. We are a mixed ability group of artists For more details check out www.westburyartclub.org.uk, e‐mail us at westburyart@blueyonder.co.uk or phone our club secretary on Bristol 962 9799.

Lip‐reading class. An evening lip‐reading class to help you cope with your hearing loss runs in Clifton from 6.15pm to 7.45pm every Monday at Redland Park United Reformed Church, Whiteladies Road. Fee is £5 per session. For more details contact the tutor, Mary Hall, by email on lipreadingmary@yahoo.com or telephone 07790 283939.

Tai Chi ‐ friendly local classes. Beginners Tuesday. Improvers Friday. Both 11‐12am at the Greenway Centre. Ffi: Karen 0117 9424167

Back to Netball at Coombe Dingle! Ladies ‐ enjoyed playing Netball at school? Stopped playing and would love to start again? Looking for a new, fun activity? Come and join us every Friday 9:30‐10am at the University Sports Centre, Coombe Dingle. Only £2 a session. For more info visit www.englandnetball.co.uk/Back ‐to‐Netball or contact Sue Anderson on 0787 2407216.

Moves Fitness – exercise to music for all ages and fitness levels at St Peter’s Church Hall, Henleaze from 10am till 11am every Wednesday. Moves Fitness offers an approach to fitness that is fun and effective in a friendly welcoming class. Come and give it a try – £4

per session. Just turn up or Phone Jane on 0117 9681042 for more info or visit www.movesfitness.com

Scottish Country Dancing for beginners and experienced dancers at St Monica's Trust hall on Thursdays 7.30pm starting in September. All new dancers welcome; come on your own or with friends. Contact Trish at 0117 962 3775 or go to our website: www.rscdsbristolinfo.co.uk

Tai Chi for Health class. Mondays from10.45am ‐11.45am at GH Health and Fitness, Pembroke House, Pembroke Grove, Clifton BS83DA. Non members and beginners welcome. Sessions £5. For further information contact Sue or drop in Mobile 07929030209 www.sueqi.co.uk.

Pilates Classes in Henleaze and Westbury on Trym. Classes held at:‐ Henleaze URC, Monday 9.30‐ 10.30 & 10.30‐ 11.30 am (Beginners New January classes); Keith James Physios, Coldharbour Rd, Monday 7.30pm (Pre Natal Pilates ); Henleaze United Reformed Church, Tuesday 6.15 pm (Beginners) and Wednesday 6.15 pm (Intermediate); Westbury on Trym Methodist Church, Tuesday 9.30 am & 10.30 am (Intermediate/ Beginners). Bookings: Zoe Rayne BCPA 07747696938, zoerayne@adaltapilates.co.uk or visit www.adaltapilates.co.uk.

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

Keep Fit for Ladies class every Thursday between 9:45 am and 10:45am at St. Peter's Church Hall, Henleaze. An enjoyable class of mixed ages and abilities with an introduction to the use of balls, scarves, ribbons and clubs.

Coffee is available to finish the class. New members always welcome ‐ just turn up at the

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NEW PILATES CLASSES

Mother and Baby Pilates Monday 11.30 am

Beginners Pilates Monday 6.30pm

Henleaze United Reformed Church Waterford Rd To book a place contact zoerayne@adaltapilates.co.uk

07747 69 69 38

(GWAAC4)

90 What’s On & Community Events class or for more info contact Margaret Clarke on Bristol 9501967.

Zumba Light 5pm/ Zumba Fitness 6.30pm.

Westbury ‐on‐Trym village hall. Weds. £5 on door. Just drop in with water and a sense of humour! Phone Marie on 0117 9634104 for more details or visit www.bristoldancezumba.co.uk

Scottish Country Dancing Classes for beginners at Leonard Hall, Trinity‐Henleaze URC, Waterford Road, Henleaze, ( Tel: Tina 0117 9075462). Classes for more advanced dancers at St Peter's Church Hall, Henleaze, (Tel: Cheryl 0117 9590970). Every Tuesday 7.30‐ 9.30pm. See wscbristol.com for details.

Fallodon playgroup offers childcare for children aged 2 ½‐5 years old. We meet Monday – Friday (9.15 – 12.15pm) in Fallodon Way Scout Hut, Henleaze, and take the early years entitlement for 3‐4 year olds. Our recent Ofsted inspection rated us as ‘Good’ (April 2013). To arrange a visit please email fallodonplaygroup@hotmail.co.uk or text our mobile 07585817173 and we will get back to you.

Little Hearts Toddler Group meets every Wednesday during term time, 10am‐1145am at Newman Hall, Grange Court Road, Westbury on Trym, BS9 4DR. Story time followed by a snack for the children and tea/coffee and cake for the grown‐ups, a craft activity, free play and singing.

Contact littleheartstoddlers@yahoo.co.uk

Westbury‐on‐Trym Toddler Group. New members welcomed to join a fun and lively group Wednesdays in term time 9.30‐11.30am at Westbury Methodist Church Hall. Run by group members we have a baby area, crafts, toys and ride‐ons. For mums and carers, a termly night out! So come and make some new

friends ‐ please book a taster session. For more info www.westburytoddlergroup.co.uk or email westburytoddlers@gmail.com.

Pat‐a‐Cake Toddlers:‐ We are a small friendly parent/carer and toddler group for babies to preschool aged children. We meet on a Tuesday 1.15 ‐ 2.45 at Westbury Methodist Church Hall. We have a baby corner, crafts and lots of toys to play with. £1.00 per family per week, each session finishes with a lively singsong. For more information contact Caroline on 968 4894.

Westbury Singers. We are an enthusiastic group of people who love singing in four‐part harmony. We rehearse on Monday evenings during school termtime in Reedley Road Baptist Church. We give performances in a variety of local venues. If you are interested in joining us please contact the Secretary Marilyn Baker on 0117 9683993 or email mazzb@hotmail.co.uk.

Mums and Tots. Henleaze URC Leonard Hall, Waterford Road, Henleaze. We are a small friendly group who meet every Wednesday afternoon (during term time) 1.30 pm ‐ 3.30 pm. Grannies and nannies welcomed as well. £1.50 per week to include a cup of tea and biscuits. Do come and join us.

Tai Chi Classes for beginners. For centuries the Chinese have practised Tai Chi as simple but powerful form of exercise for strength, balance and mindfulness. Always want to give it a try, now you don't have to go to China. The Bristol School of Tai Chi has lots of daytime and evening classes in Henleaze and Bishopston starting from the 13 January. Any questions contact Ben Milton, 0117 9493955, taichi@bristoltaichi.com, www.bristoltaichi.com

Old Sneed Park Nature Reserve: volunteers are always welcome at one of our regular working parties on the reserve (entrance next to no.3 Glenavon Park). The next one is on Saturday 11th January from 10am to 12 noon. There will

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92 What’s On & Community Events be tasks for all levels of fitness and refreshments will be served (apparently some people only come for the biscuits). There is also a fantastic walk on Saturday 8th February at 1.30pm: Trees in Winter. Tony Titchen, a well known local tree expert, will lead us to look at the special features of some of the trees on the reserve, which are observable in winter.

Stout footwear is advised but this event will not entail a difficult walk through the wood and the route will be according to conditions underfoot. It should last between and an hour and an hour and a half. We look forward to seeing lots of you on the reserve in 2014.

Out There Music Winter Concert. Sunday 9th February 2014 7.30pm. St George’s Bristol.

Performances by Out There Choir, Orchestra, Chamber Choir, Children’s Choir and Trumpet Ensemble with music including Mozart, Bruckner, One Direction, The Lumineers, Eric Clapton and Elton John. In aid of Changing Tunes. £8 (£5 under 18s) tickets available from St George’s box office. www.stgeorgesbristol.co.uk www.outtheremusic.net

Clifton Rotary Club welcomes new members of all ages and backgrounds ‐ all we ask is that people give their time, are interested in making new friends, building business contacts, using skills to help others and try new things you would never normally have thought of doing. Please find out more by emailing secretary@cliftonrotary.org.

Henleaze Tennis Club has vacancies for players of all standards and ages. Whether you are an established player looking for a club, someone who is rusty or a student come along and try us out. For further information take a look at our web site www.henleazeltc.com and contact the secretary Pat Thomson 0117 950 5862.

Bristol Brunel Probus Club for retired

professional and businessmen. Meet at BAWA, Southmead Rd, once a month to enjoy a good lunch and a great mix of social events, regular speakers, visits and outings, to which wives and friends are warmly welcomed. For more details please ring Fred Martin on 0117 968 3875.

Redland Green Bowling Club invites both novices and players to come and play at Redland Green where tuition is available with qualified coaches. FFI please ring Jean or Gerry Wickham on 9624466.

Come and join the Stoke Bishop Ladies Choir!

If you enjoy singing, don't be shy, come along on Mondays 1.45‐4pm at Stoke Bishop Village Hall. No auditions required. We sing for pleasure. We do a concert at the end of term for charity and raised £450 at our Christmas one. Come and be part of the fun. For more information, please ring Carolyn on 2791409.

Volunteer Drivers wanted for the transport of elderly patients to a doctor or nurse once or twice a week at the WoT Primary Care Centre.

We operate under the wings of the nationwide Charity RSVP who provide us with liability insurance other practical help. And of course we work closely with the Staff of the Westbury Practice. Please contact Zina Wilson on 0117 907 8744 or bernzina@blueyonder.co.uk for more info or ask Reception or your doctor on 962 3406.

Do you love weddings? Westbury on Trym Village Hall is a very popular wedding venue and has another busy wedding schedule set for 2014. Would you like to put your skills into action? If so, why not become a wedding volunteer and help organise these happy events. If you are interested, please contact Anne 0117 9680872 or Cat 07931112192.

St Peters Church Choir, The Drive, Henleaze.

We are always on the look out for new members and would welcome any new voices soprano, alto, tenor or bass. All are welcome.

Please contact Reg Parker ‐ Organist and Choirmaster on 962 1230.

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94 What’s On & Community Events

Stoke Bishop & Sneyd Park Local History Group are keen to welcome new members and visitors (£2 per meeting) to their programme of meetings. For more details please contact Jenny Weeks on 968 6010.

Stoke Lodge Ramblers provide a varied range of walks that will suit all levels of walking ability. Walks are scheduled for the first and third Thursdays and Sundays of every month.

Those on Thursdays are either medium walks of 5 ‐ 7 miles or short walks of 4 miles. Sunday walks are approximately 8 ‐ 11 miles. A number of social events are held throughout the year.

New members are always welcome. For further details please visit www.stokelodgeramblers. wordpress.com or ring our Secretary on 0117 968 4140.

Dinosaur Egg and Spoon! Shark Tennis! Bucket Shapes! Do you have an active pre‐school child who would like to have some fun and do something different? 'Little Sports' is an exciting class for 2‐3 year olds and 3‐4 year olds, held in Henleaze. Limited spaces available in each class so book your FREE trial session early! Simply contact Bryony on 0117 9499688 or email littlesportshenleaze@yahoo.com .

Visit our website www.little‐sports.com for more information.

Do you, or does someone you know, need support following a relationship breakdown?

Over the past 20 years Aquila has helped many people learn to cope and rebuild their lives following separation or divorce. If you would like to know more call Sian on 07807 058479, email bristol@hope‐after‐heartbreak.co.uk or visit www.hope‐after‐heartbreak.co.uk.

Do you need to borrow a PA System? Martyn at North Bristol PA Hire has kindly offered his services, and those of a whole bunch of public address and lighting gear, for any community or charitable event being held here in BS9.

Martyn is happy to be contacted to discuss if he can be of help at any appropriate events e.g. fetes, fun days, musical productions or whatever. He can provide music, commentary or just turn up with a PA (and lighting if needed). If you are interested please ring Martyn on 07977 512436 or 0117 987 0534 or check out his website www.northbristolpahire.co.uk.

Codeword Answers from page 38

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

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no liability can be accepted for any loss or inconvenience caused as a result of inclusion, error or omission. All content is the copyright of Bristol Community Magazines Ltd and may not be reproduced without the prior written consent of Bristol Community Magazines Ltd.

Get In Touch ‐ it couldn’t be easier

• Telephone ‐ 0117 968 7787

• Text / Phone ‐ 07845 986650

• Email ‐ andy@bcmagazines.co.uk

• Post ‐ 8 Sandyleaze, Westbury on

Trym, Bristol, BS9 3PY

• Twitter ‐ @BS9Andy

Benefit Concert for Fight For Sight QEH Theatre, Berkeley Place, Cli on, BS8 1JX Friday 7th February at 8pm (doors 7.15pm).

Tickets £14 from mike@westburysurgery.co.uk Tel. 0117 962 3706 www.philbeer.co.uk www.facebook.com/philbeermusic

Phil Beer is one of the most popular ambassadors for acoustic roots music. His impressive track record also includes touring with Mike Oldfield and being a member of the feted Albion Band from 1984‐1991. Show of Hands became a full‐time partnership in the early 90s, a band that has gone on to sell out the Royal Albert Hall three times and who were voted Best Live Act, by the public, at the 2004 Folk Awards.

Fight for Sight has been funding research into blindness and eye disease for more than 40 years. There has been major progress in this time but there is still much more to do.

Currently clinical trials are in progress using gene therapy to prevent progression in an inherited eye condition called choroideremia.

Two patients in Bristol have already had this pioneering treatment and proceeds from this concert will raise much needed funds for this work to continue. This promises to be a wonderful night of music, songs and stories ‐ so please try and come.

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“I just wanted to express my thanks to yourself and your colleagues for the helpful and professional manner in which Maggs & Allen sold our property. From start to finish the whole process was painless, and even though our requests were sometimes out of the ordinary, nothing proved to be too much trouble.

I would be very happy to recommend Maggs & Allen to any other friends or family, as we have been completely satisfied with the professionalism shown by your company.”

Mr. O. Gardner, Ridgehill, Henleaze

“The staff of Maggs and Allen were always friendly and approachable.

They deserve full marks or their professionalism during all negotiations - from the valuation, marketing, feedback from viewings to completion.”

Mrs. P. Hurley, Rockleaze Road, Sneyd Park

“The Maggs and Allen team in Henleaze were a pleasure to work with. They were passionate about the house we were selling and were quick with feedback. During sales progression, they were easy to get hold of and we always felt we were important to them.

A friendly, professional and honest team that I would, and already have, recommended. Many thanks.”

Mrs. V. Bamber, Tennyson Mews, Royal Victoria Park

“Maggs and Allen realistically priced my property for sale thereby securing an early sale. They have a good knowledge and understanding of the local property market and provide an excellent, professional service keeping the customer informed of progress.

I can thoroughly recommend their services which are given by friendly, helpful and knowledgeable staff.”

Mrs. M. Hodges, Stoke Hill, Stoke Bishop