Wildlife photographer of the year

Wildlife Photographer of the Year comes to Bristol

On loan from the Natural History Museum in London, Wildlife Photographer of the Year showcases exceptional images of animal behaviour, spectacular species, and the breath-taking diversity of the natural world. The exhibition at M Shed is sponsored by Precision Resources Group (PRG) with the accompanying engagement programme sponsored by the University of the West of England (UWE). Councillor Craig Cheney, Deputy Mayor of Bristol with the responsibility for culture, said: “I’m delighted to see Wildlife Photographer of the Year return to Bristol. From curious underwater creatures to majestic soaring birds, the exhibition ignites curiosity about the natural world and highlights the fragility of wildlife on our planet. Exhibitions like this can be a crucial tool in helping us gain a deeper understanding of the issues facing nature and the actions we need to take to protect it. “I would like to thank our sponsors PRG and UWE Bristol for their support, as well as the Bristol City Council culture team who work so hard to make this a success.”

With a record-breaking number of entries from 95 countries, the judges of the 57th Wildlife Photographer of the Year competition had the toughest job yet. Every entry was judged anonymously on its creativity, originality, and technical excellence by an international panel of industry experts. Dr Doug Gurr, Director of the Natural History Museum said:

“These extraordinary images showcase the rich diversity of life on Earth and spark curiosity and wonder. Telling the story of a planet under pressure, the Wildlife Photographer of the Year exhibition illuminates the urgent challenges we face and the collective action we need to take. This year’s inspiring exhibition will move and empower audiences to advocate for the natural world.”

The competition is the most prestigious photography event of its kind. Launched in 1965 and attracting only 361 entries, today the competition receives over 50,000 submissions from all over the world. This year’s award-winning images will embark on an international tour and be seen by well over a million people. Budding wildlife photographers can submit their images for next year’s competition until 9 December 2021.

Mark Lloyd, Managing Director at PRG, said: “Wildlife Photographer of the Year is the most respected exhibition in its field, and we are thrilled to be involved in this much-acclaimed celebration of nature. We cannot wait to see what sights are showcased at this year’s event and it is a great opportunity to support a renowned part of Bristol’s culture. What an event to be involved in!”

Dr Anna Piasecki, UWE Bristol’s Head of School of Creative and Cultural Industries, said: “We’re proud to be backing this prestigious exhibition, which will no doubt provide inspiration to those who visit, not least the younger generation, who are more conscious of nature and the environment than ever before. As a university, we hope to support and foster this interest in nature and arts. UWE Bristol already has close links with the city’s art and cultural institutions, and we’re delighted that our photography students will provide workshops to schoolchildren as part of our engagement with this exhibition.” The exhibition runs until 5 June 2022 and tickets are on sale now at the Bristol Museums website.

Due to COVID-19 safety measures, pre-booking a time slot is highly recommended to guarantee entry.

The exhibition and museum shop will be open after-hours on Tuesday 7 December for people who wish to visit at a quieter time.

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JOS & ANDREW REPORTS ON BRISTOL ZOO PLANS FOR CLIFTON SITE

Area Committee update:

We’ve just had an update on the community projects in Brislington which are being funded through Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) money, which developers pay to local authorities to mitigate the negative impact of their developments. We have two projects in the Greater Brislington area this year; the construction of a new path from the top of Arnos Court Park linking the new steps to the main path through the park, and the repair of stone steps heading down to Nightingale Valley in St. Anne’s. We are pleased to report both projects are progressing well and we are hopeful they can be delivered next year. We’ll keep you posted.

Bristol Zoo launch plans for Clifton site:

Bristol Zoo have just released more details about their plans for the historic zoo site in Clifton. Free access to the 185-year-old gardens, a new, publicly accessible children’s play area and a new Clifton Conservation Hub and café, are included in plans being put forward by Bristol Zoological Society for the future of the 12-acre site. The latest draft masterplan shows up to 235 new homes will be created of which 20% are proposed to be affordable homes. The plans will also ensure the site’s historical buildings are protected and include a mix of sustainable, high-quality, much-needed housing with the same level of space for people and nature as today. Check out their website to see the plans in more detail. There is also a consultation, in which you can leave comments: https://bristolzoo.org.uk

Brislington Brook litter pick:

It was great to join the Friends of Brislington Brook (FOBB) last weekend for a litter pick in Nightingale Valley. Between all of us, we managed to amass quite a haul. Why not join the Friends at one of their future events? https://www.facebook.com/groups/457276714 2750709/?ref=share

Road sign obscured by undergrowth:

We have arranged for a letter to be sent to Sovereign Housing making them aware of road signage obstruction on the Bath Road by their Lynwood Park development due to a large amount of uncontrolled undergrowth. If no action is taken within two weeks, the Council will raise the matter with the Neighborhood Enforcement Team who will issue a formal notice, which will allow the council to cut back and invoice accordingly.

Greater Brislington Together meeting:

Thank you to Penny for organizing the Greater Brislington Together meeting to discuss the Council’s Welcome Back Fund to support activities that will encourage people to visit Bristol’s high streets and city centre. Organisations can apply for funding to help pay for events such as markets and parades or activities such as marketing or promotion of an event. Organisations can apply for up to £2,400. Applications must be made by 30 November 2021 so time is running out. Furthermore, all activities or events must be delivered, and funding spent, by 31 March 2022. If you’re working on events or involved in community groups where this funding could be applied (or you know any organisations that might benefit), take a look at the website for guidance on the Fund and check eligibility: https://www.bristol.gov.uk/business-support-advice/high-streets/welcomeback-fund We were delighted to attend a special service led by the Bishop of Bristol at St. Cuthbert’s church last week to officially induct Ian Garrett as vicar of the parish. Ian is very keen to work with the local community and they have exciting plans to modify the interior of the church to facilitate greater use by the community.

Business opportunities in our local green spaces:

Several people have been in touch about café franchises in our local parks and green spaces. If you have a business you'd like to start in a Bristol park or green space - not necessarily a café - join an information session on Tuesday 23 November at 6pm, to find out more about the commercial opportunities available and how to submit your proposal. Register here: https://lnkd.in/dTDT_rhc Hundreds of Brislington West residents have signed up to receive our monthly newsletter via email. You can register using this link: http://www.bristollibdems.org/efocus. By Jos Clark, Liberal Democrat Councillor (Brislington West) Email: cllr.jos.clark@bristol.gov.uk Mobile: 07584 370429 & Andrew Varney, Liberal Democrat Councillor (Brislington West) Email: cllr.andrew.varney@ bristol.gov.uk Mobile: 07584 183381