Bristol Direct Local Magazine 25th March - 1st April 2021

GREATER BRISTOL’S WEEKLY ONLINE MAGAZINE

25 - 1 APRIL 2021

IMPROVE

AL &

BUILDING SERVICES

IIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIII

I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I

Call In The Experts To Get Your Home Improvments Under Way Today!

Tel: 01173 257790 Or 01275 595790 www.alsconstructionservices.co.uk SUBSCRIBE FOR THE LATEST NEWS FIRST @ DIRECTLOCALBRISTOL.CO.UK

1

C J Computing (Systems) Ltd YOUR LOCAL COMPUTER REPAIR SPECIALIST WE HELP FIX ALL COMPUTER PROBLEMS! PC & MAC

Tel: 0117 962 4553

Computer Repair Data Recovery Virus Removal Gaming Hardware Bespoke Pc’s Built www.cjcomputing.com 57 Westbury Hill, Westbury on Trym, Bristol, BS9 3AD Opposite the free Carpark on Westbury Hill

2

Mikes letter

Welcome to another week and it’s our one-year anniversary since we started this weekly online magazine Yay!

After last week’s letter I though I would say thank you for all positive comments on social media. I am so thankful that this publication delivers useful and informative information to you all.

Here’s to another twelve months!

This week also marks another change to the restrictions as we easy out of lockdown. So as of the 29th of March you can implement the rule of 6, out doors sports can continue but no overseas travel can happen yet. But is that a problem at the moment? As we seem to be paving the way in Europe as far as vaccinations.

As for the riots in our city center this week I think it’s distressful. Seem to me like it was a excuse to mass gather with friends and cause some trouble by a select few that turned a peaceful protest in to a street war against our fantastic police force.

Anyway it’s Easter next week, which came around fast, didn’t it. Till next week folks have a good un!

42.

Disclaimer The opinions expressed in Direct Local do not necessarily reflect those of the editor, publisher or their agents. Whilst every reasonable care is taken to ensure the accuracy of information included within this publication, the publisher takes no responsibility for errors or omissions in Direct Local.

The content of Direct Local is not to be reproduced in any form without permission of the publisher. Please pass to a friend, recycle or compost. All adverts designed by Direct Local are the property of Direct Local please contact us if you wish to reprint them in other publications as a small release fee Is applied. Use of adverts designed by us will need written permission first.

This week..

4. Citizens to vote

6. Break the cycle 2021 8. Search for Hengrove park Development 10. Spot checks in business 12. Family homes in Wrington selling fast 17. Pimm’s Cake 18. April Horoscopes 20. Bristol business raises nearly £27,000 22. Driving us out of lockdown 26. Cineworl reopens after 7 months 28. Your garden in April 36. Bored this weekend ?

40. The final 7 driving myths 46. 50 apprenticeship positions 48. Easy pickings The team EDITOR Michael Davies DISTRIBUTION Matthew Clarke

JOURNALIST

Lisa Davies PROOF READER Elisabeth Davies Advertising sales Tel: 0117 325 8029 MOB: 07500 017 236 Email: info@directlocalonline.com Regular editoials By: Andrea Sexton, Martin Powell Daren Bane Kayleigh Penny Peter Abraham Andrew Varney Online Weekly Distribution: Direct Local Online now reaches over 19,500 people across Bristol via their inboxes and social media each week. @directlocal

www.directlocalbristol.co.uk 3

Citizens to vote in four elections Delayed polls to take place in May

Returning Officer for Bristol Elections, Tim O’Gara, said: “The council have been preparing to make these elections CovidCitizens of Bristol will head to the polls to have their say in four elections on Thursday, 6 secure so that all electors can take part safely and confidently. I would urge citizens to make May, 2021. sure they’re registered to vote at their current address and decide which method of voting Elections will take place for the Police and Crime Commissioner, the Combined Authority they prefer early on, all of which will be safe.

Mayor (for the West of England), the Mayor of “To vote in any election in the UK, you must Bristol, and Local Elections. The local be registered to vote. The deadline to register elections will result in 70 local councillors is midnight on 19 April 2021. You can register being voted in for the 34 wards of Bristol. online at www.gov.uk/register-to-vote.”

Local elections, were initially due to take place in May 2020 but were postponed across If you're unable to register online, you can the country by central government. Elections apply by post. You can download the relevant forms here. for May 2021 have since been given the goahead and citizens on the electoral register You should not attend the polling station if you can chose from three different ways to vote, have symptoms of Covid-19, or if you have all of which will be safe. been asked to self-isolate. If you are self-isolating or become unwell as a result of Covid-19 The three ways to vote are as follows: shortly before polling day, or on the day itself, Polling station – citizens will be able to vote in you don’t need to miss out on your vote. You person at the polling station on their poll card will be able to apply for an emergency proxy vote – where someone you trust can vote on from 7am to 10pm. Staff are taking precauyour behalf. tions to make sure that polling stations are Covid-secure, including one-way systems, social distancing, face coverings and sanitis- If you were registered to vote in the last election and your details have not changed, ing. Voters will also be invited to bring their you don’t need to take any action. If in doubt, own pencil if they prefer. you can check with Electoral Services on 0117 922 3400. Find out more about the Postal – voters can apply for a postal vote elections here. from now until 5pm on Tuesday 20 April Proxy – where you can ask someone to vote on your behalf either at a polling station or by post.

4

10 YEAR GUARANTEE

When we fit any Worcester Bosch boiler with a system filter

HURRY ONLY FOR A LIMITED TIME!

A NEW BOILER FROM ONLY £2500 Plumbing & Heating Co Ltd

keeping Bristol Warm

231756

www.bristolplumbingandheating.com

THE ONE STOP SHOP FOR PLUMBING,HEATING & ELECTRICS

WE ARE SPECIALISTS

IN:

LPG (All makes) Breakdown & repair airs (All makes) Boiler servicing & rep Power flushing P.A.T. Testing Domestic electrics ection Periodic electrical insp Test & inspect Free estimates

Top Rated Worcester Bosch Fully fitted, includes filter and clock Price is for combi-for-combi swap with horizontal flue

CALL NOW ON: 0117 910 9005 or 0117 968 7196 Boiler Breakdowns, boiler Services & Landlord Gas Safe Certificates From Only £60 + Vat 5

Break the Cycle, Bristol Sport Foundation and Bristol Bears Community Foundation’s largest annual fundraiser, is back for 2021.

Break the Cycle 2021

Due to the covid-19 pandemic the event will, again, be held virtually. To get involved, get on your bike throughout May and June to raise money to fund the important work of our foundations.

Break the Cycle 2021 will culminate in a celebration event at Ashton Gate Stadium on Sunday June 27th 2021 which will be live streamed to watch at home and, covid permitting, there may be a chance for you to get involved!

All of the money raised at this event goes towards the incredible, life-changing work of Bristol Bears Community Foundation and you also have the chance to fundraise for your chosen charity including Bristol Sport Foundation and Bristol City Robins Foundation

6

YEAR

To get involved in Break the Cycle 2021 simply follow these five steps…

1. Choose your challenge - Whether you’ve just started to cycle or are a seasoned cyclist set yourself a challenge 2. Get cycling - Your favourite local route, at home on a static bike, out with your family... whenever you like, it's up to you!

3. Donate £5 - to our Break the Cycle fundraising campaign to raise vital funds for the Bristol Bears Community Foundation - DONATE NOW 4. Tune in - Join us for the live streamed event on Sunday, June 27th to celebrate your involvement 5. And relax - Kick back, put your feet up and think about all the life changing work you have supported Last year’s virtual Break the Cycle event was a huge success with over 250 riders taking part, support from all of our professional clubs and over £15,000 raised and we would love to have a go at breaking that figure this year to support the life changing work that our foundations carry out every day.

We would love you to submit your videos, images and anything else to us throughout the Break the Cycle campaign, please submit all content using the BSF app or by tagging us on our social media channels using #BreakTheCycle2021 Let’s get riding

7

Search for Hengrove Park Development Partner starts soon Bristol City Council is launching the search for To ensure the selected development partner a partner to help deliver its flagship housing meets the council’s commitment to development. sustainable, inclusive development that meets the needs of the local and city community, the The development of Hengrove Park, Bristol criteria against which bidders’ proposals will City Council’s major south Bristol housing be evaluated will include: development, promises to deliver 1,435 new homes, at least 30% of which will be Achieving exemplary development quality and affordable housing. place-making, to deliver excellent new homes, community buildings, retail and employment The next phase of the project is to start the space and a high-quality new public park search for a Development Partner.

Environmentally sustainable, low-carbon development The Hengrove Park project is the council’s biggest housebuilding scheme and is a major Working collaboratively with local people, investment into south Bristol. Alongside new community groups and businesses homes, the project will deliver 12,000m2 of Social Value, to deliver outcomes that benefit new employment, commercial, retail, the whole community, including significant education and community space, a new training and employment opportunities for high-quality public park, and sports pitches. local people.

The two-stage procurement process will see bidders judged against strict criteria, ultimately leading to a shortlist of candidates being evaluated before a final partner is selected.

8

As part of the Development Agreement between the council and the successful applicant, the new park will be permanently maintained as a public park accessible to everyone.

The Mayor of Bristol, Marvin Rees, said: “Securing a Development Partner for Hengrove Park is the next step towards delivering the new homes and wider redevelopment of the area.

By finding a partner that shares our social and environmental values, and our commitment to delivering a high-quality new neighbourhood which fosters community and becomes a great place to live, the project will bring a range of benefits to south Bristol.

“The re-development of Hengrove Park will deliver 1400 well-designed, sustainable new homes, at least 30% of which will be genuinely Affordable Housing, alongside new community facilities and green spaces.

“The project will also deliver significant investment into the local community, including over 500 jobs per annum over the lifetime of the development, contributing to the post-Covid economic recovery of South Bristol and benefitting the whole city for years to come.”

Following the selection of a Development Partner, the redevelopment of Hengrove Park will be delivered in phases over the next 5 to 10 years in accordance with the overall Masterplan, with the first phase of around 250 new homes expected to start on site in 2022.

9

Bristol steps up COVID spot checks on businesses Spot checks are to be carried out on Bristol’s businesses and workplaces to make sure they are properly protecting their staff, customers and visitors from COVID-19.

The HSE-led work includes calls and visits to businesses to assess the level of awareness of COVID guidance and control measures in place.

Public Protection teams at Bristol City Council are working with the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) to carry out the COVID-secure spot checks. Together, they will help make sure the city’s businesses have regulatory responsibility to manage their COVID response and control measures.

Where checks raise concerns, they will be investigated via a site visit or follow up call, with the HSE passing concerns onto council enforcement teams to carry out a further inspection if necessary.

Businesses failing to manage the risks properly face immediate action, starting with speBuilding upon work started by the HSE in cific advice, through to issuing enforcement May of last year, local enforcement teams will notices and halting of certain work practices focus on areas where COVID safety concerns until made safe. Prosecution could be considhave already been identified. They will also ered should businesses fail to comply. provide an overview on the level of compliance with government guidelines across Common areas for improvement include Bristol’s business community. insufficient cleaning regimes, poor understanding of good hygiene practices, and the Government guidance recommends adongoing management of control measures justments that need to be made and steps such as social distancing. required to make a business COVID-secure to help protect staff, customers and visitors from Councillor Steve Pearce, Bristol City Council’s infection.

Cabinet member for Regulatory Services, said: “Since the launch of the HSE’s spot Spot checks will be carried out on businesses check programme last year, the vast majority that are used by communities and crucial to of Bristol’s businesses have done a magnifithe local economy. There will be a particular cent job of following guidance and introducing focus on businesses where there is likely to measures to control the risk from COVID-19. be sharing of tools or equipment, handling of goods or where employees may need to work “We thank them for this considerable effort closely at times, such as warehouses, tyre during what has been an incredibly challengand exhaust centres, offices and timber and ing period. Working with the HSE, our fresh builders merchants. approach to these checks is to support businesses where there is responsibility for the The HSE-led work includes calls and visits to enforcement of health and safety legislation businesses to assess the level of awareness by suggesting and overseeing improvements. of COVID guidance and control measures in place.

10

selling homes in your area HENLEAZE

Sales - 0117 2130777 | henleaze@goodmanlilley.co.uk

ETLE LAGERTEEDASLGA REED

PORTISHEAD

Sales - 01275 430440 | sales@goodmanlilley.co.uk

The Indepen

& Land Agents

Lettings: 01275 2990 lilley.co.uk @goodman 10 • lettin gs@

299010 • lettings A6 Flyers.in

SHIREHAMPTON

dent Sales, Lettings

& Land Agents t Sales, Lettings

The Independen

Lettings: 01275

dd 3

A6 Flyers.indd

3

goodman

18/09/2018

lilley.co.uk

13:23

18/09/20

18 13:23

Sales - 0117 2130333 | shire@goodmanlilley.co.uk

lettings Lettings - 01275 299010 | 0117 2990101 lettings@goodmanlilley.co.uk

Henleaze • Shirehampton • Portishead Shirehampton_back page.indd 1

24/01/2019 11:54

11

FAMILY HOMES IN WRINGTON SELLING FAST

New family homes in Wrington, North Somerset are selling fast with buyers keen to move in this summer so that children can make a fresh start at local schools in September.

Redcliffe Homes has sold 63% of the Cox’s Green development in just four months as the village of Wrington proves attractive to those who want to live in beautiful countryside but within easy reach of Bristol.

Sales advisor Jane Briscoe said: “Despite all the difficulties people are experiencing with moving home while the Covid-19 restrictions are in place we have seen interest beyond our expectations.

“It seems that families in particular want to ensure that they can move at the right time of the year and they are looking for homes that will be ready for occupation as soon as lockdown is over and we head into the summer.

“Cox’s Green is in a great rural location, with easy access to Bristol and the airport once work and travel returns to normal, a useful number of village shops on the doorstep, a children’s play area within walking distance and a variety of sports catered for close by.

“The development is being built using materials that complement the surrounding countryside and the appearance of the new homes here - plus the variety of designs available - is attracting a lot of positive feedback.

12

“We have six three-bedroom Sherston type properties now available – all detached - that are attracting a great deal of interest as the timing is perfect for families wanting to complete a move before the new school year.”

Homes at Cox’s Green are in the catchment area for Churchill Academy - ranked Outstanding by OFSTED - with school bus services running from the village centre, and Wrington Primary School within walking distance for younger children.

The six homes currently available are individually designed with a kitchen-diner, separate living room and cloakroom off the hallway downstairs, while upstairs the main bedroom has an en-suite and there are two further bedrooms and a family bathroom.

The homes have garages, driveways and private gardens as well as access to footpaths and green space so that people can head out to enjoy the countryside with the backdrop of the Mendip Hills on their doorstep.

Viewings can be booked by calling Jane Briscoe on 01934 313375. Opening hours are Thursday to Monday, 10am to 5pm. For more details see www.redcliffehomes.co.uk

SPECIAL OF

FER!

WEBSITES from

£349 ONLY

SELF-EMPLOYED, SMALL OR MEDIUM SIZED BUSINESS AND...

LOOKING FOR A GREAT WEBSITE? Contact us today:

matt@directlocalwebsites.co.uk - Tel: 0117 325 7915 - www.directlocalwebsites.co.uk Free Bonus (With every website!)

FREE .co.uk domain name FREE 1 month webhosting FREE Updates for 1 month

BONUS

SAVING £100

Need to get online with your business? No problem we can help with packages designed just for you.Contact us for our latest offers today!

arding Career?

Looking for a Rew arer!

Become a Foster C You could provide a safe, secure home for local children with unrivalled training & support!

Call us on 0800 035 6499 Visit www.blueskyfostering.com 13

Out and about in Brislington West with Jos and Andrew Property Licence Scheme Consultation Launched: Back in February, we wrote about proposals to extend Bristol’s Property Licence Scheme to Brislington West. If this scheme is introduced, landlords of certain properties in Brislington West will be required to apply for a licence and meet certain minimum standards of property condition and management. The scheme will last for five years and every property will be inspected during that period and any failures will need to be addressed or the owner will face enforcement action. The objective of the scheme is to improve property conditions and management practices of rented properties.

Successful schemes have already been introduced in Stapleton Road, Eastville and St George and in 12 wards in central Bristol.

Many failures have been uncovered which, without licensing, would have gone unreported. Most private tenants are not aware of the standards that landlords should maintain their property to or are too afraid to report the landlord for fear of retaliatory eviction.

e-Scooter Expansion: At Full Council in January, we asked the Mayor when the Voi e-Scooter scheme would be available in Brislington. The Mayor was unable to give us an answer but we are pleased to say that large parts of Brislington have been included in the latest expansion of the scheme, commencing this Wednesday 24 March. The scheme is currently for Voi e-scooters only and it is still the case that privately owned e-scooters are illegal to ride on the public highway. Voi are also running a lease scheme which allows riders to hire their own personal e-scooter on a longer-term basis. This lease scheme covers the whole of the WECA area including all of Bristol. While we are pleased the ‘pick up and go’ scheme has been extended to parts of Brislington, we are disappointed the Brislington Park and Ride site has been excluded. To really make a difference, they need to be available at our park and ride sites and other key suburban locations so that people have a real choice in how they travel.

Acorn Pledge: ACORN, founded in Bristol in 2014, is a mass membership organisation and network of low-income people who are campaigning for a fairer deal for our communities, especially an end to rough sleeping, more council housing, rent controls and universal free school meals.

We share their frustration with our current mayor and his administration, who have spectacularly failed to deliver on their key manifesto pledge from 2016, namely to build 800 affordable homes a year by 2020.

We are also horrified that the Labour-run Bristol City Council has regularly used the Vagrancy Act to arrest people for the ‘crime’ of being homeless. The Liberal Democrats have long campaigned for the repeal of this outdated and egregious Act ACORN has six key demands:

1) End Rough Sleeping in Bristol by 2024 2) Build 1,000 Council Homes a Year by 2025 3) Lobby Central Government for Rent The 10-week consultation has now launched Controls and local residents, tenants and landlords are 4) Retrofit Bristol’s Homes being invited to share their views either online: 5) Universal Free School Meals 6) Fund Good Food For All www.bristol.gov.uk/propertylicensing2021 or by calling 0117 9222474 to request a paper version. The consultation closes on 26 May. 14

Family Fun Day: Staff at the Imperial Sports Ground on West Town Lane are hoping to host a Family Fun Day on 26 June and are looking for any interested people to help form a planning group to organise this. Although we are in uncertain The Bristol Liberal Democrat manifesto for times, the idea is that planning something the 2021 elections will be published shortly positive like this could give people in the area and will be in line with relevant policies in our a focus and something to look forward to. If you or anyone you know would be interested national manifesto, which include: in being involved, please let us know, and we 1. Liberal Democrats will end rough sleeping will pass on your details to the organisers. within five years.

Virtual Councillor’s Surgery: 2. We will build at least 100,000 homes for It’s time for another ‘virtual’ councillor’s surgery social rent each year. for Brislington West this Saturday 27 March 3. We will promote longer tenancies of three from 10 to 11am. Unfortunately, Wick Road years or more with an inflation-linked annual Library is shut, which means local councillors rent increase built in, to give tenants security are unable to offer a surgery to residents in the and limit rent hikes. usual way. However, Brislington West councillor, Jos Clark, is holding ‘virtual’ councillor’s 4. We will extend free school meals to all surgeries via the video conferencing app, children in primary education and to all Zoom. Here’s the link: secondary school children whose families https://zoom.us/j/97440438831?pwd=ZlBvcreceive Universal Credit, as well as DErN1RWSXlSYXUxdlBaWHJuUT09 promoting school breakfast clubs.

Of course if you are not a fan of face-to-face video conferencing, you can still contact us by Scrap The Mayor: phone or email at any time. See below Last week at Full Council, Labour and Green councillors joined forces to save the Mayor Polling Station Change: from the people of Bristol. The Liberal Dem- Voters who normally go to the Bristol School ocrat motion, to give the people of Bristol a for the Performing Arts (The White Hart) in referendum on the Mayoral system lost by Brislington Village to vote should be aware it 11 votes, after most Labour & Green council- is no longer available. Therefore, the polling lors voted against it. We have been listening station has moved to Holymead Juniors on to local people, whose frustration is clear Wick Road, accommodated in the Lower with the Mayor, his failures, and the lack of Hall. The school will remain open to pupils on accountability and democracy in the Mayoral polling day. While special measures will be put system. We feel they deserve the chance in place to ensure everyone’s safety at polling to scrap the Mayor if they want to. If we are stations, by far the easiest and safest way to elected this May, we will continue campaign- vote is by post. You can use our handy tool to ing hard to give the people of Bristol the vote get your postal vote set up today. If you don’t they deserve, to say enough is enough and have a printer, let us know and we will get an scrap the Mayor. application form to you. https://www.libdems. org.uk/postal-vote Scrap The Mayor: Last week at Full Council, Labour and Green Keeping in touch: councillors joined forces to save the Mayor We believe in keeping residents up to date on from the people of Bristol. The Liberal Dem- important local issues and publish a quarterly ocrat motion, to give the people of Bristol a newsletters, ‘Focus on Brislington West’. We referendum on the Mayoral system lost by also have a digital version and if you would 11 votes, after most Labour & Green council- like to receive it, please register using this link: lors voted against it. We have been listening http://www.bristollibdems.org/efocus. to local people, whose frustration is clear with the Mayor, his failures, and the lack of

By Jos Clark, Liberal Democrat Councillor accountability and democracy in the Mayoral (Brislington West) Email: cllr.jos.clark@bristol. system. We feel they deserve the chance gov.uk Mobile: 07584 370429 to scrap the Mayor if they want to. If we are & Andrew Varney, Liberal Democrat Councillor elected this May, we will continue campaign- Candidate (Brislington West) Email: andyvaring hard to give the people of Bristol the vote ney@hotmail.com Mobile: 07544 667968 they deserve, to say enough is enough and scrap the Mayor.

15 Although we are broadly in support of ACORN’s demands, we recognize that lack of national funding from the Conservative government might hinder some of these demands from becoming a reality.

16

Pimm's cake Ingredients

275g Unsalted butter, softened, plus extra for greasing 275g caster sugar Zest of 1 orange 2 tbsp Pimm’s 5 Eggs 275g Self raising flour 1 1/2 tsp baking powder For the drizzle: 100ml Pimm’s 100g icing sugar For the butter icing: 150g Unsalted butter, softened 150g icing sugar Juice of 1/4 orange 2 tbsp Pimm’s To decorate: 1/2 orange 400g Strawberries

Method Preheat the oven to 180°C/fan 160°C/Gas 4 Butter a deep, 20cm cake tin and line with greaseproof paper Beat the butter, sugar, orange zest and Pimm’s together Add the eggs one at a time, with a bit of flour after each Keep beating, gradually adding the rest of the flour and the baking powder Spoon into the cake tin and bake for 30 mins, then cover the top with greaseproof paper and bake for another 20 mins Leave to cool Melt the Pimm’s and icing sugar together in a small pan on a low heat, then gently bubble for about 10 mins to make a syrup Prick the cake all over with a skewer Pour most of the syrup over the cake and leave to cool Beat the buttercream ingredients together until pale and fluffy Cut the cake into 3 equal layers horizontally, then stack them on top of each other, spreading buttercream in between, ending with a layer of buttercream on the top Decorate with fruit, cucumber, mint and the remaining syrup

1/4 Cucumber handful fresh mint leaves

17

April Horoscopes

Leo July 23 - Aug 22 This month you may need to use some of your qualities of wisdom and endurance.

There may be something that needs to be Aquarius JAn 20 - Feb 18 sorted that is stopping you from achieving Try not to get yourself tied in knots. your goals or plans. This needs to be sortEverybody seems to want you to help them ed out so you can move forward, and begin with something, or to be involved in something. to relax and enjoy yourself again Give yourself a bit of space to find the common Keywords clear communication and balance you need. It’s time to take stock of clearing things. a few things, and re-shuffle both your home environment, and activities.

Virgo Aug 23 - Sept 22 Keywords. Sensitivity, intuition and There may be something that needs your balance. attention. Possibly to do with paperwork.

Once this has been dealt with then you Pisces Feb 19 - Mar 20 can take some time out, and know that you Time for you to try and take control of the have done the best you can and begin to situation that is holding you back. Avoid unwind and relax. arguments or negative situations if you can.

Remember nothing is impossible.

There may be some meeting or gathering that Keywords learning changes and you may find useful. Avoid conflict if possible. realisation.

Keywords. You time, family.

Libra Sept 23 - Oct 22 It seems to be a month for change for a Aries Mar 21 - Apr 19 lot of people, and your birth month is no It seems that those born in the month of March, different. Don’t take everything as your reare about to venture into either new hobbies, sponsibility, remember sometimes sharing interests or study. Remember to keep balance a burden or a project can make it much in your life and not to over do things. Research more enjoyable for everybody. Your energy and collecting information seems to be things levels and your well-being will begin to pick that will be taking up your time. up show automaticly this month, so look Keywords clearing and inspiration forward to some positive and wonderful energy.

Taurus Apr 20 - May 20 Keywords. Clearing and sorting.

Looks like time for some changes.

Has your motivation gone, and your energy Scorpio Oct 23 - Nov 21 levels down? Take a look at a few tweaks and Time to take a look at your life, or at a situchanges you can make to help bring some ation that needs some attention. vitality and enthusiasm back into your life.

Remember friends, family or your own Don’t let things drag you down and don’t get higher self can be there to help you in any yourself caught into complicated situations. situation. Don’t listen to any gossip, as you This is your time of year, so it’s now time to need to focus on sorting things out to bring take a look and sort some good and healthy The calm and clarity that would help you to treats for yourself. Have a lovely birthday. sort these things out Keywords. Changes and energy Keywords balance and revelation Gemini May 21 - June 20 If you have been thinking of taking up a new hobby, interest or maybe studying, now is the time to really consider doing this. A lot of things are going for you the hardest decision may be what it is you would like to learn. Try listening to your own intuition.

Keywords. Reviewing and clearing Cancer June 21 - July 22 This seems to be a month for sorting a few things out, the only problem is it looks like social things could be quite important to you certainly this month Try not to take too much on at present, and seek some quiet time, to allow yourself to gain some clarity.

Keywords. You time, clearing and opportunities

Sagittarius Nov 22 - Dec 21 Try to find some balance in your life. It seems very much at times you don’t know whether you’re coming or going.

It seems that you could be feeling literally a bit stuck in more ways than one. Try to take some time for yourself, and if you can, try and give yourself some you time.

Keywords. Clearing and communication Capricorn Dec 22 0 Jan 19 Relationships seem to be the major influence for you this month. Particularly romances close friendships, just be aware that someone around who may need some emotional support.There may be a situation that will need you to take a good look at the situation. And then a decision maybe needed, to help someone.

Keywords. Relationships, romance

Want to find out more about what’s in store for you this month! Contact Marie on: 07949 800354 18

happy

A place to live We pride ourselves on having happy homes, where residents and their families can enjoy spending quality time with each other and develop new friendships along the way.

Our homes in Bristol are located close to local shops and amenities, and benefit from strong connections with community groups. We offer a busy and varied activities programme that includes something for everyone and ensures residents get the most out of every day.

We care for individuals with a variety of care needs including Residential, Nursing and Dementia Care.

Our homes in Bristol: Osborne Court Care Home, 0117 321 9289 Bishopsmead Lodge Care Home, 0117 321 9269 Call our friendly team today, or visit: www.fshc.co.uk

19

Bristol division raises nearly £27,000 for Alzheimer's ResearchUK

The Bristol division of leading housebuilder Barratt Homes has handed over nearly £27,000 to the UK's leading dementia research charity, Alzheimer's Research UK, its charity of the year.

"We're so proud of our staff for their incredible efforts in raising this significant sum for Alzheimer's Research UK, and we're delighted to have been able to double the funds raised.

Dementia is one of the world's greatest health challenges, with almost one million people living with dementia in the UK. Funds raised will go towards pioneering dementia research that will help to make breakthroughs in dementia research possible.

"At Barratt Homes, it's hugely important to us to be able to help make a positive difference to people's lives and charitable donations such as this one are just one of the ways we make this happen."

The charity was chosen by the team in Bristol as part of a collective decision-making process which involved a staff survey. Numerous fundraising activities were arranged over the course of a year, most prior to the pandemic, including a cake sale, bingo, a quiz, a golf day, and an exclusive show home furniture sale to staff, friends and family.

In total, staff and friends raised £13,392.92 by taking part in these activities, with Barratt Homes doubling the donation to £26,785.84.

Andrea Pilgrim, sales director at Barratt Bristol, which covers the wider Bristol area, says: 20

Vicky Lake, Corporate Partnerships Manager at Alzheimer's Research UK, says: "We're thrilled to have been chosen as Barratt Bristol's charity partner of the year and to receive such an incredible amount. Sadly, Alzheimer's Research UK has faced a drop in funds due to COVID-19 and this is putting dementia research at risk. But thanks to the heart-warming efforts from staff at Barratt Bristol, we can continue funding groundbreaking dementia research, which will help us to transform the lives of everyone affected by the condition."

In addition to this fundraising activity, together with its sister company David Wilson Homes, the housebuilders donate £3,000 every month to local causes in the South West as part of the company's commitment to supporting the communities where they are building new homes. Recent support included donations to local foodbanks which experienced unprecedented demand due to lockdown and the Covid pandemic.

Barratt Homes is building new communities across the South West including at Nerrols Grange, Taunton, Charfield, Wotton-Under-Edge, and Birds Marsh View, Chippenham.

WE DO BIG IT ALL OR SMALL

CLEAROUTS

& GARDEN MAINTENANCE

BRISTOL

CLEAR

UTS

RUBBISH CLEARANCE SERVICES

Tel: 07508 500 039

South Bristol - North Bristol - South Glos - North Somerset

WANT TO GROW YOUR BUSINESS ?

We have over 80,000 readers every month Direct Local Bristol has the solution to help your business get seen more..

Visit www.directlocalbristol.co.uk Email: info@directlocalonline.com Call: 0117 325 8029

Join our mailing list and receive our latest digital interactive versions of our magazines straight to your inbox

e e th 1 exp om # r Fr K’s ove U ke a m

en

h tc

Ki

REFRESH YOUR TIRED KITCHEN by just swapping the doors and worktops

s. rt

Before

• Excellent reputation • From simple door replacements to fully fitted kitchens • Choose from a wide range of quality doors, worktops, appliances, sinks & taps • Installed quickly and cleanly by our own local professional fitters in just a few days

www.dreamdoors.co.uk

RUN FAMILY SS BUSINE

EST. 1999

®

CALL FOR A FREE ESTIMATE ON:

0117 944 3223 Visit our showroom: 11/12 The Promenade, Gloucester Rd, Bristol BS7 8AL

9.59/10

Over 290 reviews on

See what our customers have to say

21

Bristol Businesses Driving us out of Lockdown!

Here at Community of Purpose we have 20 local businesses we would like to say thank you to.

In 2020, we set ourselves a challenge to raise at least £20,000 to enable us to buy a people carrier. We needed a suitable vehicle that we could use as part of our Break Free programme, as well as the Bristol Together Championships programme. We knew we needed help from the local business community to achieve our challenge, and so we launched The Better Bristol Challenge.

So, what is the Challenge?

A new vehicle is a big ask, so rather than ask one company to sponsor the people carrier, we asked for local 20 companies to help us and sponsor it. We felt a £1,000 donation to Community of Purpose was a lot more affordable than a whole vehicle!

Our Generous Donors.

We can't thank the following 18 companies enough for supporting us, and donating towards the purchase price of the vehicle.

Action Coach Bristol, Barrs Court Construction, Battrick Clark Solicitors, BNI Compton BOM IT Solutions, Brandal, Crystal Clear Glazing, Elmtree Garden Contractors First Class Communications, First Point Logistics , Inside Asia Group, Jeff Way Construction, Lancer Scott, MJT Controls Rakata Technology, Sparkle Cleaning Spider Group, Tutor Doctor Unitary Engineering Services 22

How it will help us help Bristol?

Having the people carrier will make transporting food, equipment and children involved in our projects that much easier.

In the school holidays, we run our Break Free holiday programme with Youth Moves, where we deliver a range of fun sports activities for children in the most deprived areas of Bristol.

To help tackle the very real issue of holiday hunger, we provide the youngsters with breakfast and lunch, ensuring they have at least two meals in the day.

During term times, we run the Bristol Together Championships, twinning local Primary schools. We bring children from different backgrounds together, to help them help forge friendships with groups they would be unlikely to usually mix with, helping to break down different race, class, geographical and faith boundaries that we see in Bristol, through the medium of football. The programme works with them to form a joint football team from the twinned schools, and compete at an annual tournament. With the COVID-19 roadmap, we aim to be delivering the programme face to face again in June this year.

What it means to the children of Bristol?

For the children of Bristol, we offer them safe places to engage with other children, activities to help them grow, and feed those most at risk of going hungry.

Championships

n one

run a As we exit the pandemic, we will start to see more families struggle, and issues relating to ssible mental health, and poverty become poten- Bristol Together Championships is about crossing oliday tially even more widespread. By helping theboundaries. youngest citizens of Bristol, we can unite children, and help them forge new friend- Using the universal language of football to help ships, increase their understanding of the ciro the cumstances of others, and provide potentialcommunity cohesion by getting boys and girls crossing the race, class, geographical and faith opportunities that they wouldn't otherwise be o deliver offered. boundaries that characterise life in the city. ds.

How your business can get involved?

South Bristol - North Bristolwith - Southother Glos -schools North Somerset We are always looking for help with our Primary schools are twinned programmes. If you would like to support usfrom totally different communities to their own. y get atwith a donation towards the vehicle - and the costs associated with running it, or any of Together they form a joint team and compete at an our programmes, we would love to hear from annual tournament. you.

ung

munityofpurpose.com

WANT TO GROW YOUR BUSINESS ?

Community of Purpose #EmpoweringPeople

comm purpose

We have over 80,000 readers every month Direct Local Bristol has the solution to help your business get seen more..

Visit www.directlocalbristol.co.uk Email: info@directlocalonline.com Call: 0117 325 8029

Join our mailing list and receive our latest digital interactive versions of our magazines straight to your inbox @commofpurpose

Purpose CIC | Community interest company registered in England and Wales number: 10421390

23

24

Tel: 01275 341478

29, Old Street, Clevedon, North Somerset. BS21 6DA. Email: clevedon_funerals@btconnect.com www.clevedonfunerals.co.uk

Tel: 01275 814400

27, High Street, Portishead, Bristol. BS20 6AB. Email: portisheadfunerals@outlook.com www.portisheadfunerals.co.uk

Director: Ian Taylor-Rowlands Dip.F.D. LMBIFD Covering Clevedon, Portishead, Pill, Nailsea and surrounding areas.

At Clevedon Funeral Services and Portishead Funeral Services, we are here to help you every step of the way, providing dignity and respect to you and your loved ones.

Funeral Arrangements can be made at our offices, or in the comfort of your own home.

We are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year.

Pre-Paid Funeral Plans available.

Direct Service £1499.00 (No Attendance)

Simple Service £2662.00 (Service before 10am)

Traditional Service £2892.00 (No Limousine )

Traditional Service £2992.00 (1x Limousine )

25

Cineworld aims to end seven month shutdown by reopening UK venues in May The UK’s largest cinema chain is to start reopening its UK picture houses in May 2021 after closing all 127 venues seven months earlier when it said there weren’t enough new movies for audiences to enjoy.

Cineworld Group Plc said its US Regal theatres will reopen in April as the start of a phased reopening with a limited number of cinemas showing Godzilla vs Kong on April 2 and going wider with Mortal Kombat on April 16.

Cineworld then plans to reopen in the UK, its second biggest market, in May, in line with current Government guidance.

The chain, which operates cinemas in North Somerset and South Gloucestershire brought the curtain down in October when it blamed film companies of being reluctant to release new movies this also resulted in the popular bristol branch closing late last year.

Two subsequent UK lockdowns have since occurred, which would have prevented cinemas opening anyway, but now the UK Government’s roadmap to reopening says indoor entertainment venues such as cinemas can reopen from May 17.

“We have long-awaited this moment when we can welcome audiences back to our theatres and restore our essential role within the communities we serve,” said Mooky Greidinger, chief executive of Cineworld.

“With the health and safety of our customers, staff, and communities as our top priority, we continue to take all the necessary precautions and abide by our Cinema Safe guidelines to confidently provide a safe and comfortable experience.

26

“We will also be monitoring developments closely in the UK and across Europe as we set to gradually reopen across the world in line with local government guidance."

In addition, Cineworld has reached a multi-year agreement under which films from Warner Bros Pictures Group will be exhibited in Cineworld's cinemas in the US as of their opening.

Beginning in 2022, Warner Bros. Pictures Group theatrical releases will have a 45-day window of theatrical exclusivity, with certain provisions.

In the UK, Warner Bros and Cineworld have agreed to an exclusive theatrical window of 31 days prior to PVOD (premium video on demand), and an extended window of 45 days for films that open to an agreed upon box-office threshold.

“We are very happy for the agreement with Warner Bros This agreement shows the studio’s commitment to the theatrical business and we see this agreement as an important milestone in our 100-year relationship with Warner Bros,” Mr Greidinger added.

With a slate of films scheduled to release this spring and summer, Cineworld will welcome back audiences after an extended closure in response to what Cineworld called “an increasingly challenging theatrical landscape”.

27

Your garden in April Spring should be well under way this month with daffodils in full flow, their bright flowers enough to cheer up any day. Blossom trees will be blooming and fresh growth will be appearing on plants everywhere. “April showers’ are common but don’t be deceived by sudden burst of rainfall – you may need to start watering plants more regularly on dry, bright and windy days. With longer days and stronger sunshine growing conditions are continually improving and the warmer weather will give us all the opportunity to get busy in our gardens.

Sow hardy annuals Hardy annuals are plants that can be sown from seed in the open ground. Get them off to an early start by sowing in pots or modules.

Modular trays are also handy for sowing summer bedding plants such as marigolds, lobelia and petunias. Label each seed tray and once they are growing put them outside when the weather is warm day and night.

28

Support climbers Climbing plants should be growing rapidly now, so will need ample support for new growth. Extend or replace trellis as necessary or add more wire to archers and tripods.

New shoots will need to be gently encouraged sideways as they grow. This will send vital growth hormones doing the length of the shoot rather than just to the tip and so will encourage flowering all over the plant.

Plant of the month: Rhododendron The rest of the garden will also be growing well now, so if you have been putting off carrying out any major pruning then now is the time to bite the bullet and get it done. Trees, shrubs and hedges should be cut back now before birds begin to nest.

Care for your lawn The lawn will need regular mowing from now until autumn. Get some maintenance carried out to your lawn mower to ensure it stays in good running order – at the very least your mower blades should newly sharpened ready for regular use. Keep the edges of the lawn tidy after moving with a sharp pair of shears or a lawn edger. Don’t forget to give the lawn a spring feed after mowing if you haven’t got around to doing it yet. If a more drastic approach is needed to spruce up your lawn, sowing seeds for new lawns or over seeding dead patches can be carried out from midApril onwards.

Why should you plant them?

Ancient Greek meaning “Rose tree’ the rhododendron family includes azaleas. These stunning shrubs flower in all sorts of vibrant colours and can help brighten those difficult dark spots in your garden. Rhododendrons are grown for their spectacular flowers usually borne in spring, although some – the deciduous rhododendron or azaleas have good autumn colour.

How should you plant them?

In the wild rhododendrons are woodland plants, so they prefer dappled sunshine and can manage well in shade. They like plenty of water however will not do well in boggy or badly draining soil, so drainage is key.

Plant in autumn or spring and use ericaceous compost.

29

30

BIKE SERVICE

0117 980 3337 www.sullycycles.co.uk We service all makes and models

Highly reccomended in the area!

31

Take a break and solve theses puzzles!

Here are this weeks puzzles designed to test your mental skills during your lunch break or after tea.

Click the download symbol below to download our puzzles to your phone or computer and complete at your own leisure.

Good luck!

OUT EVERY THURSDAY!!

SUBSCRIBE TODAY! TO BRISTOL’S ONLY WEEKLY DIGITAL INTERACTIVE MAGAZINE

JOIN THE REVOLUTION..

Want all the latest news first, straight to your inbox?

Then visit hit the button subscribe below!

SUBSCRIBE 32

Comprehensive Criticism Pin Accept Trance Junior Listen Article Responsibility Palm Acquaintance Speed Execute Slave Pause Default Hall Pot Item Prosper

EASY

HARD

33

Leading housebuilder supports national loneliness charity for second year running A leading South West housebuilder is taking the unprecedented step of supporting the same charity as its ‘charity of the year' for a second year in a row.

The team at Barratt David Wilson Homes' South West division say they were so inspired by the work of Marmalade Trust, after raising more than £20,000 for the Bristol-based, national loneliness charity last year, that they will continue to fundraise on their behalf in 2021.

Recognising the profound impact of the covid pandemic on lonely and vulnerable people, Barratt David Wilson Homes' South West team, which is building new communities in Ladden Garden Village, Yate; Nerrols Grange, Taunton, Wichelstowe, Swindon and across the South West, have decided to redouble their efforts in 2021. Members of the team will also be volunteering with the charity's Companions Scheme, which has offered phone chats with people who live alone throughout lockdown, and is hoped will extend to face to face visits when restrictions are lifted.

34

Every year Barratt David Wilson Homes' South West division supports a designated charity with fundraising activities, volunteering and wider support, in addition to making monthly donations to local causes in the communities they are building in.

As well as fundraising for Marmalade Trust last year, staff from David Wilson Homes helped to assemble and deliver more than 200 Christmas hampers to people spending Christmas alone in Bristol, South Gloucestershire and North Somerset.

Margaret* (*name changed) aged 87 years old said, "I was not looking forward to the Christmas time at all, after the year we have had, it been very lonely… But I have loved my weekly calls from volunteers, connection advent calendar and of course the beautiful hamper that was delivered on Christmas Day."

Grown from a Christmas day event for a handful of people in 2013, Marmalade Trust now runs companion schemes for over 200 people, Christmas events and hamper deliveries and hosts the annual Loneliness Awareness Week in June which last year captured national attention due to the covid pandemic.

Amy Perrin, founder and CEO of Marmalade Trust said: "We are thrilled that Barratt David Wilson Homes has offered to support our work for the second year in a row. Loneliness has long been an issue for too many people in our society and whilst the covid pandemic made things even more difficult for people living alone, it has meant we are at last talking about loneliness. The support of businesses like David Wilson Homes, by fundraising and volunteering, means we can help and connect more people, and continue our campaign to raise awareness of loneliness, reduce the stigma and influence positive action to alleviate it."

James Dunne, managing director for Barratt David Wilson Homes South West added: "We were so touched by the work of Marmalade Trust after fundraising and volunteering with them last year that for the first time ever, we've decided to support this incredible charity for a second year running. David Wilson Homes is about building communities, as well as homes - and with so many people affected by loneliness as a result of the covid pandemic, we wanted to do more to continue to support vulnerable people who may still struggle with loneliness as others start to reunite with friends and family."

To donate to Marmalade Trust visit https:// www.marmaladetrust.org/support-our-work

TSA ACCOUNTANTS BRISTOL LTD CHARTERED CERTIFIED ACCOUNTANTS AND ADVISORS 0117 923 5394

enquiries@tsabusinessadvisors.co.uk

ACCA

www.tsabusinessadvisors.co.uk

Your one stop shop for Accountancy, Tax and Business Advice

Accounting Services Sole Trader TSA Accountants Bristol Ltd Self Employed 124 Gloucester Road Limited Company Patchway Partnership Bristol Contractor BS34 5BP

Business Advice Professional business advice to help set you on the path to growth and success.

This is included within our services as standard.

Free Initial Consultation We offer a free initial consultation to assess the level of accountancy services you require.

35

Bored this weekend? Here are some binge worthy shows worth watching on Netflix and Disney+ With the public stuck at home through most of the year, people have had to find their amusement where possible, and streaming services like Netflix, Disney+ and Prime Video all played a big role in that.

It can sometimes be bewildering to launch yourself into the world of streaming with no idea what you want to watch - often forgetting that programme of film you saw and thought looked good.

Although there will be some form of restrictions in place throughout the summer and likely even beyond that, if things go well, we're likely to be able to do a lot more in the coming weeks and months than we have been permitted to throughout winter.

But fear not, because we've put together a list of some of the nation's favourites TV shows and films from Netflix, Disney+ and Amazon Prime Video that you should consider watching.

From March 29, people will be able to gather in groups of socially distanced six in outdoor areas, including private gardens.

Obviously we couldn't list all of them, but here's a few of our favourites from the last year or so.

For now, indoor mixing is still banned. This means that you can only mix with your own household or bubble inside - any other household mixing must be outdoors and with a maximum of five other people (six in total).

Netflix now has more than 203 million subscribers around the world.

This means that in Bristol, we’re likely to see a lot more picnics, family outings, and gatherings in some of the city’s popular spots such as Durdham Downs , Castle Park, and all of the other brilliant green spaces we have here in the city.

Let’s not kid ourselves, we’ll still be watching TV, but probably a lot less. Last March the nation was greeting each other on Zoom calls with the words “Hey all you cool cats and kittens” as the Netflix documentary series Tiger King became the show everyone was watching in lockdown, and if you haven’t seen that, what have you been doing?

With nowhere to go for large parts of the year cultural events were largely limited to the TV or laptop screen, and that meant a resurgence of the appointment to view, with terrestrial shows like I May Destroy You on BBC, ITV’s The Quiz and Channel 4’s It’s A Sin uniting the nation around the virtual water cooler.

Elsewhere, streaming shows like The Crown and The Queen’s Gambit became big hits for Netflix, while the serendipitously-timed launch of Disney+ last March brought with it Star Wars spin-off The Mandalorian and, later, Marvel oddity WandaVision.

36

Founded in 1997, the streaming service initially sold and rented DVDs by mail. Its growth rocketed from 2013 after it started investing in its own content.

Backed by its vast content offering, Netflix enjoyed a bumper 2020 as large swathes of the world were forced indoors to shelter from the pandemic.

In its letter to investors, the California-based company shared viewing figures for some of its most popular TV shows and films.

The Queen’s Gambit

Bridgerton

The programme reportedly triggered a rise in chessboard sales and Google searches related to the game.

Bridgerton arrived on Netflix late last year and proved a global hit - flaunting some seriously raunchy scenes which kept viewers on the edge of their seats.

This riveting drama sees Anya Taylor-Joy, 24, play an orphaned chess prodigy during the Cold War era who rises to become a global star of the board game.

Taylor-Joy said: “We used to joke on set that we were bringing sexy back to chess.

“We didn’t really think that’s what people would actually think.”

The Queen’s Gambit is based on Walter Tevis’ 1983 novel of the same name.

Taylor-Joy said: “The second I closed the book, it was this dawning of, I’m going to have to give this character so much of myself in order to tell the story right.”

In November Netflix said The Queen’s Gambit was watched by 62 million households in the first 28 days after its release.

Raunchy period drama Bridgerton has proved to be “immensely popular”, Netflix said, promising “exciting news” about the show later this week.

The first series stars Rege-Jean Page as the the mysterious and rebellious Duke of Hastings opposite Phoebe Dynevor as debutant Daphne Bridgerton.

Bridgerton is produced by Shonda Rhimes’ Shondaland and has been described as Gossip Girl meets Downton Abbey - which quite frankly, is a perfect description.

Netflix previously said the show had become its biggest ever original series after it was viewed by a record 82 million households in 28 days.

Soul

The Falcon And The Winter Soldier Soul is a wildly imaginative and deeply The Falcon And The Winter Soldier has had the most successful launch of any programme on Disney+, the streaming platform has announced.

The Marvel show launched on the service last week.

A tweet from Disney+’s official account said: “Marvel Studios’ The Falcon and The Winter Soldier opens as most watched series premiere ever on #DisneyPlus.”

The Falcon And The Winter Soldier was directed by Kari Skogland while Malcolm Spellman was the head writer.

The series follows on from Avengers: Endgame and sees Sebastian Stan reprises his role as Bucky Barnes for the spin-off series alongside Anthony Mackie as Sam Wilson.

The series also stars Daniel Bruhl, Emily VanCamp and Wyatt Russell.

moving meditation on humanity from the computer animation wizards at Pixar, which tackles abstract concepts – mortality, depression, grief, alienation – with a playful sense of humour.

In Inside Out, director Pete Docter cleverly visualised the tug of war between the five core emotions of an 11-year-old girl.

He applies a similarly deft touch here with co-director Kemp Powers to a coming of middle-age story that inhabits a space between the physical and spiritual.

Soul riffs confidently to its own beat, employing bold visual flourishes to render the central character’s odyssey in strokes that can be appreciated on multiple levels.

The exquisitely beautiful picture reminds us to cherish everyday pleasures and let the joyful act of living be a soothing balm to our troubled souls.

37

BRISTOL HOTELIERS PREPARE TO KICK-START THEIR BUSINESSES WITH A RECRUITMENT DRIVE Hoteliers in Bristol are preparing to recruit hundreds of people to help kick-start their businesses when coronavirus restrictions are lifted.

They are anticipating a very busy summer as the hospitality sector starts to re-open and early indications suggest there will be a surge in demand for ‘staycation’ breaks as uncertainty remains about the safety of travelling abroad.

The Government’s ‘roadmap to recovery’ has given 17 May as the first date by which hotels are able to fully open and if they are going to welcome guests back in, the hotels need to be adequately staffed.

“If all restrictions are lifted on 21 June, as provisionally laid out in the Government’s roadmap, it is expected that many family gatherings will return to hotels, such as wedding anniversaries, milestone birthdays, christenings and other celebrations.

“Many hotels also have a backlog of weddings that were postponed because of the pandemic, and some are still hoping to host around 100 weddings between June and December.

“All these positive steps forward are why are now getting ready to recruit.”

The Bristol Hoteliers Association (BHA) represents some 40 hotels in and around the city, between them offering around 4,000 rooms.

He said many BHA members will be using the Government’s Kickstart Scheme, which provides funding to employers to create job placements for people aged between 16 and 24 who are on Universal Credit or at risk of long-term unemployment.

BHA Chair Raphael Herzog said: “After one of the most difficult years any of us can remember we are now in a position to begin to plan with some certainty for when we can re-open, hopefully without having to go back into lockdown again.

Mr Herzog said: “Even if we do all re-open on 17 May we won’t instantly be able to operate at the same levels of income we were at pre-lockdown, so any support we can get will be extremely helpful in order to secure our long-term recovery.

“Around the city, hotels will be looking to recruit at least 500 people, and are planning to recruit even more over the summer, as efforts are made to promote Bristol as a destination and attract tourists back to the city.”

“The Kickstart Scheme is going to be extremely valuable, a huge help not only to us but to those young people. It provides funding for 25 hours of work per week for a total of six months, but who knows what may happen after that.

He said BHA member were reporting an increase in enquiries about conferences from September and have even started taking enquiries about Christmas parties.

“If our businesses recover as we hope they will, and the young people find that they enjoy their experience in the hospitality industry, then perhaps this is not just a short-term support scheme to help kick-start our recovery but could be the beginning of a long and enjoyable career for people in our wonderful sector.

He added: “With many companies still forced to work from home, or downsizing their offices, it is clear that the demand for small meetings will be strong, as people will still have to meet up, and many have had enough of Teams and Zoom, and would prefer face-to-face meetings.

38

“The hospitality industry has been one of the hardest hit through the pandemic; we’ve always been among the first businesses to be forced to close and among the last to be able to re-open through each lockdown.

“But there is finally some cause for optimism now and that is going to be positive news for our businesses, positive news for the city as a whole, and very welcome news for the hundreds of people we are going to be looking to recruit over the coming weeks.

“The measures announced in the budget, such as the extended business rates holiday and reduced rates of VAT, will all contribute towards getting our businesses back up and running fully.

“Most of all, we can’t wait to do what we do best, and that is to give a warm welcome to our guests and provide them with a positive memorable experience.”

WE DO BIG IT ALL OR SMALL

CLEAROUTS

& GARDEN MAINTENANCE

BRISTOL

CLEAR

UTS

RUBBISH CLEARANCE SERVICES

Tel: 07508 500 039

South Bristol - North Bristol - South Glos - North Somerset

WANT TO GROW YOUR BUSINESS ?

We have over 80,000 readers every month Direct Local Bristol has the solution to help your business get seen more..

Visit www.directlocalbristol.co.uk Email: info@directlocalonline.com Call: 0117 325 8029

Join our mailing list and receive our latest digital interactive versions of our magazines straight to your inbox

39

Here is the final 7 Driving 'myths' debunked or actually proved to be true..

1 - My fully-comprehensive insurance policy cover me to drive other cars That depends on your insurance policy. It used to be the case that many policies came with ‘driving other cars’ (DOC) cover included as standard.

These days, this is less common and will often only be included if the driver asks for it and pays extra. Drivers under 25 are unlikely to have this cover on any policy.

Even if you do have DOC cover, it’s only supposed to be used in an emergency, which means your provider might not pay out if you’re involved in a collision and don’t have a good reason to be driving someone else’s car.

3 - Supermarket fuel is bad for my engine This myth stems from people looking at cheap fuel deals at supermarket petrol stations and deciding they water down the fuel to afford to make the offers.

All fuels sold in the UK have to meet the same British Standards. Although supermarket fuel wouldn’t damage your car or be under par, it typically contains less performance additives than branded fuel.

These include detergents to remove the buildup of deposits in the engine and lubricant to reduce wear and tear.

4 - Change lanes and you can trick cameras measuring your average speed

To be sure of your specific cover, check your insurance policy to see what cars you can and Older average speed cameras may have cannot drive. been fooled by simply changing lanes, but times have changed.

2 - I can leave my engine running while parked up Today, the cameras calculate for lane Leaving your engine running while parked changes and take pictures of every lane to up, or engine idling, as it’s otherwise known, cross-compare them. could see you land a fixed penalty.

Rule 123 of The Highway Code says that drivers must not leave a vehicle engine running unnecessarily while that vehicle is stationary on a public road.

40

5 - You’re allowed to break the speed limit when overtaking Untrue. Although overtaking manoeuvres should be completed quickly and safely, you should never break the speed limit for the road you’re driving on.

6 - There is such a thing as driving too slowly The police can pull you over and charge you with careless driving if they decide your speed is inappropriate for the road you’re driving on.

Some roads will display a minimum speed sign to give you a clear idea of how fast you should be driving.

You’re most likely to come across the blue circular signs in and around tunnels. Some of the signs display a red horizontal to show the end of the minimum speed limit.

7 - You can get in trouble for splashing a pedestrian with a puddle Not a myth. If a police officer catches you splashing someone at the side of the road you might be charged with ‘driving without due care and attention or without reasonable consideration for other road users.’

Breaking the rule could land you with 3 to 9 penalty points added to your licence for four years.

This completes our 21 driving myths debunked we hope you found these to be of use to you.

41

9 ways your car insurance could end up invalid without you realising

Insuring your car is always a bit of a minefield, but even if you're not driving your car at the moment you still need insurance or to prove that it is off the road.

Despite it being illegal not to have insurance, Somerset traffic police officers regularly catch people who have no insurance.

But, even if you have it, there are many ways that it could actually become invalid, and you might not find this out until it’s too late.

Where you park your car There is a difference in insurance premiums if you use off-street parking compared to parking on a street. If you tell your insurer that your car is parked off-street when it’s not, if it is broken into your claim would not be valid.

Lying about what the car is used for Insurers will ask how you use your car whether it’s for social, social and commuting or business use. Not telling the whole truth about what your car is used for will leave you without car insurance.

Accident Management Bristol company, have given their advice on 9 ways that your car Underestimating the mileage insurance could actually be invalidated without As annual mileage is one of the main factors you even realising. used to calculate your insurance premium, you must state the correct number of miles.

Change of address If your mileage is higher than your estimate When setting your car insurance premium, in- then this will put your policy at risk. There are surers take your postcode into account. When mileage calculators online which you can use you move to a new house your insurance pol- to help you estimate the number of miles you icy may change. So you must tell your insurer drive. immediately to ensure your car insurance remains valid.

Having an obstructed windscreen If your windscreen is obstructed in any way Getting a new job and you’re involved in an accident your inAlways remember to inform your insurer when surance claim would be void. Whether it’s by you get a new job. Occupation title and type frost, dirt or too many air fresheners hanging are factors that they consider when setting from your rear-view mirror. your premium. Failing to do this could leave you uninsured.

42

Listing an older person as the main driver when it’s actually someone younger Often termed as ‘fronting’, insurance becomes invalid if someone lists themselves as the main driver on a car that belongs to a younger driver, who is named as the secondary driver, but in reality main driver of the car.

Not only could this invalidate your insurance, but it could also land you with a substantial fine and six points on your license.

Making a profit from charging people for lifts Making a profit from charging people for lifts could put your car insurance at risk. However, if you are just accepting petrol money, which does not result in any money as profit, then this is not considered illegal and will not change your insurance.

Modifying your car If you plan on modifying your car, contact your insurer beforehand so they can tell you how much your policy will increase. Modifying your car increases insurance policies for multiple reasons. Bodywork and non-standard engines are more expensive to replace and repair. In addition to this, some modifications can increase the risk of your car being a victim of theft.

ECO VAN SPARES Bristol’s Transit & Commercial Vehicle Spares Specialist

Cars

Vans

Lorries

WANTED FOR CASH FREE COLLECTION Unit 17, Bakers Park Cater Park Bishopsworth Bristol, BS13 7TT

Tel: 0117 9781919 ECOVANSPARES.COM

HAD AN ACCIDENT? NOT YOUR FAULT?

WE CAN HELP AT NO COST TO YOU..

YES FREE!!

www.AccidentManagementBristol.co.uk

DON’T WAIT CALL US TODAY!

ACCIDENT MANAGMENT BRISTOL

ON: 0117 9647948

43

Mobile Speed Camera Sites Bristol

With reports of mobile speed cameras back in operation never get caught speeding again with this list of sites to expect a mobile speed camera at anytime.

Hazelbury Road, Whitchurch (20mph)

A3029 Winterstoke Road (30mph)

A4 Portway Nr Barrow Hill Road (30mph)

Hengrove Avenue, Hengrove, Bristol (20mph)

A37 Wells Road, Hengrove (30mph)

A4 Portway Nr Hung Road (40mph)

Hengrove Lane, Hengrove, Bristol (20mph)

A370 Coronation Road, Southville (30mph)

A4 Portway Nr Portview Road (30mph)

Highbury Road, Bedminster (20mph)

Hungerford Road, Bristol (20mph)

A38 Rupert Street/Bridewell A4 Portway Nr Roman Way Street/The Haymarket, Bristol (40mph) (20mph) A4 Portway Nr Sylvan Way/ A4 Totterdown Bridge Riverleaze (40mph) (30mph) A4018 Falcondale Road, A4174 Callington Road, Westbury on Trym (30mph) Brislington, Bristol (30mph) A403 St Andrews Road, A4174 King Georges Road, Avonmouth (40mph) Bristol (30mph) A4162 Sylvan Way/Dingle Allison Road, Bristol (30mph) Road/Canford Lane (30mph)

Ladies Mile, Durdham Down (20mph)

B3119 West Town Lane (20mph)

A4174 Ring Road, nr Hicks Gate roundabout (70mph)

Ladman Road, Stockwood (20mph)

B3122 Redcatch Road, Knowle (20mph)

A432 Downend Road, Fishponds (20mph)

Marksbury Road, Bedminster (20mph)

B4466 Jacobs Wells Road, Bristol (20mph)

A432 Fishponds Road, Easton (20mph)

Newbridge Road, Bristol (20mph)

Bamfield, Hengrove (30mph) Ashley Hill, Montpelier (20mph) Barnstaple Road, Knowle (20mph) Avonmouth Way, Avonmouth (30mph) Bishport Avenue, Hartcliffe (30mph) Highbury Road, Horfield (20mph) Broadwalk, Knowle West (20mph) Hill View, Henleaze (20mph)

Highridge Green, Bristol (30mph) Hollister’s Drive, Hartcliffe (20mph) Hollway Road, Stockwood (20mph)

Novers Hill, Bristol (20mph) Novers Lane, Bristol (20mph) Petherton Road, Hengrove (20mph) Queen’s Road, Bishopsworth (30mph) Ridgeway Lane, Bristol (30mph) 44

Broomhill Road (30mph) Calcott Road, Knowle (20mph)

Kings Weston Lane, Lawrence Weston (30mph)

Stockwood Lane, nr the sports ground, Stockwood (20mph) Stockwood Lane, nr Whitchurch Village sign, Stockwood (30mph)

B4052 Ashley Down Road, Bristol (20mph) B4054 Avonmouth Road, Shirehampton (30mph)

Bonnington Walk, nr Wordsworth Road, Lockleaze (20mph) Concorde Drive, Southmead (20mph)

B4054 Cranbrook Road, Redland (20mph) Constable Road, nr Crome Stockwood Lane, Stockwood Road, Lockleaze (20mph) (30mph) B4054 Shirehampton Road, Sea Mills (30mph) Coombe Lane, Stoke Bishop Sturminster Road, Stockwood (20mph) (30mph) B4054 Shirehampton Road, Shirehampton Park (30mph) Eastfield Road, Westbury on Talbot Road, Bristol (20mph) Trym (20mph) B4055 Station Road, Henbury Whitchurch Lane, nr Halfacre (20mph) Furber Road, Bristol (20mph) Lane (20mph) B4057 Knole Lane, Brentry Glenfrome Road, Eastville Whitchurch Lane, nr (30mph) (20mph) Hawkfield Road (20mph) B4469 Muller Road, Horfield Gordon Avenue, Bristol Whitland Road, Bristol (30mph) (20mph) (30mph) Bell Barn Road, Stoke Bishop Highbury Road, Horfield Wick Road (20mph) (20mph) (20mph) Wingfield Road, Bristol (20mph) Furber Road, Bristol (20mph)

Bonnington Walk, nr Branwhite Close, Lockleaze (20mph)

Glyn Vale, Knowle (20mph)

Julian Road, Sneyd Park (20mph)

Hareclive Road, Hartcliffe (30mph)

Keys Avenue, Horfield (20mph)

Ladies Mile, Durdham Down (20mph) Long Cross, Lawrence Weston (30mph) Merebank Road, Avonmouth (30mph)

Smyth Road, Ashton (20mph) Hill View, Henleaze (20mph)

Portview Road, Shirehampton (20mph)

Somerdale Avenue, Knowle (20mph)

Roman Way, Bristol (20mph)

South Liberty Lane, Ashton Vale (20mph) Duckmoor Road, Ashton Gate, Bristol (20mph)

Romney Avenue, nr Stoke Park Primary School, Lockleaze (20mph) Stoke Hill, Sneyd Park (30mph) Wellington Hill West, Horfield (30mph)

Station Road, Shirehampton (20mph) Wellington Hill West, Horfield (30mph) Wessex Ave, Horfield (20mph)

Please visit www.avonandsomerset.police.uk for exact days and placement of a mobile camera site and remember to give yourself plenty of time to plan your journey to avoid rushing to get to a destination thus (Speeding) 45

NURSERY GROUP OFFERS 50 APPRENTICESHIP POSITIONS

A leading day nursery group has announced 50 new apprenticeship positions across its settings in the South West

“Our new apprenticeship pay rate of £7.50 per hour is considerably higher than competitors in the industry which is around the £4-£4.50 per hour mark. Introducing this level Mama Bear’s Day Nursery & Pre-School group of pay is a revolutionary step in how we are has launched the new apprenticeship prodoing things and this paired with our repugramme, with an industry-leading starting pay tation for being a caring employer offering rate, as a way to encourage people to consider good job security and prospects, makes this a career in the early years industry. programme an attractive opportunity for anyone looking for a head start in their career, or Hoping to attract those studying childcare as perhaps a new one altogether. well as anyone with an interest in childcare previously in other professions, such as retail “The covid-19 pandemic has, of course, provand hospitality, Mama Bears hopes the comen extremely difficult for many with redunpetitive pay, attractive company benefits and dancies, extended furlough and uncertainty commitment to career progression will interest around job security. We’re hoping to provide a number of candidates. those in less stable industries who have always had an interest or passion for childcare, The nursery group’s new Managing Director, with the tools and training to become early Chris Marston, says the recruitment of quality years practitioners. staff as well as the wellbeing of current staff is one of his main priorities.

“Many of our previous apprentices have moved on to qualified roles in the business Chris said: “Apprenticeships have always including team leaders and nursery managbeen a fantastic way for us to find and develop ers. We want to attract the next generation of talent at our nurseries so we have decided to talent within the organisation.” offer a further 50 positions across the group.

Mama Bear’s provides apprentices with individual training programmes and the opportunity to explore any areas of specialist childcare which interest them.

46

Mama Bear’s bespoke apprenticeship training scheme includes ongoing learning support, with daily hands-on experience in addition to a mixed programme of mandatory and voluntary training sessions, held twice-weekly. The apprentices also contribute to the monthly theme planning and day-today activity planning of the nursery where they are based, and are involved in regular staff meetings.

Chris continued: “Apprenticeships are no longer solely for school and college-leavers, they provide a vital stepping-stone for anyone looking for a stable and rewarding career.”

Established in 2002 Mama Bear’s runs nurseries across Bristol, South Gloucestershire, Somerset and Devon which are consistently rated by OFSTED as Good or Outstanding.

Anyone aged over 17, not in full-time education or other funded training, and interested in learning more about Mama Bear’s apprenticeship scheme can email recruitment@ mamabear.co.uk or visit the website at www. mamabear.co.uk

TRAINING l SERVICE l SALES l HIRE

Bristol's Largest Independent Construction Health & Safety Training Centre               

CITB Health & Safety Awareness CITB SSSTS and Refreshers CITB SMSTS and Refreshers First Aid Face Fit Testing IPAF PASMA Forklift Manual Handling Asbestos Awareness Abrasive Wheels Working at Height Scaffold Inspection Ladder & Steps and more...

0117 967 0811 info@davisaccess.co.uk | www.davisaccess.co.uk

Unit 4, Bakers Park, Cater Road, Bishopsworth, Bristol, BS13 7TT

Why not read our other publications online!

South Bristol North Somerset North Bristol South Gloucestershire www.directlocalbristol.co.uk 47

“EASY PICKINGS” WARNING FOR HOUSEHOLDERS AHEAD OF ENERGY PRICE CAP RISE Bristol energy auto-switch site Flipper warned today that around 11 million households are being lined up to pay extra as the industry fears that people will default on their gas and electricity payments as the fall-out from covid 19 hits.

Nailsea-based Flipper says energy regulator Ofgem’s decision to up the maximum price that suppliers can charge from April 1 to £1,138 for the average bill – £96 higher than the previous cap Barry Hayward, managing director of Flipper said: “While Ofgem is responding in an appropriate way to address an unprecedented situation, it does nonetheless leave many including the elderly and the most vulnerable people who are on standard or default tariffs bearing the brunt of this.

“We don’t yet know what the full effect of coronavirus crisis will be, but with so many companies going into administration and job redundancies, it will no doubt increase the number of households struggling to pay their bills.

“Many people never check whether they could save money by switching energy supplier, either because they see it as a hassle or don’t feel confident enough,” added Barry, “but with bills set to rise by 9 per cent, it’s more important than ever to be on a good deal.

“Flipper check the market for their members every month and switch them every time a saving of £50 a year is found – even if that’s to a new deal with their current supplier. It means we spot if their current supplier has introduced a new tariff that is cheaper than the deal they are on, then we switch them over straightaway.”

Unlike comparison sites, who get paid commission by the energy providers for switching people to them, Flipper the UK’s first auto-switching service, do not take money from suppliers.

Members pay an annual fee of £30 when they are switched for the first time; tariffs are checked every month and customers are automatically moved to a better tariff if they can save £50 a year.

For more information click the image above.

“For an average family home with medium energy usage, there is a price difference of more than £900 between the highest standard variable rate charge and the cheapest deal on the market, which could make all the difference.

“People on standard tariffs are easy pickings for energy suppliers. They are often elderly or among the most vulnerable in society, or else householders who have been loyal to same supplier for years, or failed to notice they’ve come to the end of a fixed rate.”

It is estimated that the 11 million households on standard tariffs miss out on collective annual savings of more than £3 billion by failing to switch to a competitively priced deal.

48

www.barberontrym007.co.uk 10 Carlton Court Westbury On Trym Bristol BS9 3DF

REOPENING SOON barberontrym@yahoo.co.uk

0117 3305520

www.gasproboilers.co.uk PROFESSIONAL SERVICE EVERYTIME

PLUMBING & HEATING ENGINEERS

ALL PLUMBING & GAS WORK UNDERTAKEN BOILER INSTALLATIONS BOILER REPAIRS POWER FLUSHING UNVENTED SYSTEM INSTALLATIONS 505353 BATHROOM INSTALLATIONS

FULLY INSURED

RECOMENDED

INTEREST FREE CREDIT & 10YR WARRANTY ON NEW BOILER INSTALLATION

Tel: Nathan Proud

07830 448127

thegaspro@gmail.com

49

c Lo al l De y er iv

TEL: 0117 329 5525

ee Fr

STAR

PLUMBING & HEATING SUPPLIES

OPEN TO THE TRADE AND PUBLIC

Plumbing - Heating - Bathrooms - Boilers

Vist our new websites today and order online. Then either collect in store or use our free delivery service on orders over £99

www.starplumbingsupplies.co.uk Star Plumbing & heating Supplies, 15 Kenn Court, Roman Farm, Road, Bristol, BS4 1UL

50