Bristol Weekly Magazine 27th January - 3rd February 2022

BRISTOL WEEKLY MAGAZINE

27 Jan - 3 Feb 2022

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Emily Gilbert, BA (Hons) Textile Practices

Your time is now. Join one of our exciting Undergraduate or Postgraduate degrees and discover your pathway into the UK’s creative industries.

Be a part of a thriving community full of possibilities; because #artisessential Register your place at our Open Day on Sat 26 Mar 2022 and you can claim back your travel costs. See our website for details plymouthart.ac.uk *The Guardian University Guide 2022 names us as the highest-ranking university in Devon Cornwall for Film Production & Photography courses; and also in Bristol, Devon and Cornwall for Fashion & Textiles courses.

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BE SOU ST IN FOR TH WES FAS T TEXT HION & ILES *

Register your place at our Open Day:

This week..

4. Artist registration opens 6. Dannii and Fran 14. Recipes of the week 20. Highway code changes 22. Help for mums to get back into employment 24. Focus on 26. £1.8 billion in council homes 28. Whitchurch and Hengrove Community Group 30. Does retiring early mean an early death?

32. How to survive the craziness 38. Dressing well in your 50’s 40. Your garden in February 42. Horoscope 44. Fighting both food waste and hunger, 46. Return to plan A @directlocal

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The team EDITOR Michael Davies JOURNALIST Lisa Davies PROOF READER Elisabeth Davies Regular editorials By: Andrea Sexton Martin Powell Daren Bane Kayleigh Penny Andrew Varney Corinna Ingram Molly Pownall Online Weekly Distribution: Direct Local Online now reaches over 23,690 people across Bristol and surrounding areas via email and social media every week.

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ARTIST REGISTRATION OPENS FOR 2022 UPFEST FESTIVAL

Artist registration for Europe’s largest live street art festival, Upfest, opened on the 22nd January. The festival which will take place 28th-29th May in Bristol with pre-painting of Bedminsters walls kicking off from the 5th of May, the festival attracts will attract 400 artists and 50,000 visitors from around the world.

Artist registration for Europe’s largest live street art festival, Upfest, opened on the 22nd January. The festival which will take place 28th-29th May in Bristol with pre-painting of Bedminsters walls kicking off from the 5th of May, the festival attracts will attract 400 artists and 50,000 visitors from around the world.

Upfest welcomes all practicing artists, graffiti writers or collectives to register their interest for the 2022 festival and applications are open to artists from all backgrounds, experience levels, disciplines and mediums - as long as they don’t mind a big audience!

Upfest welcomes all practicing artists, graffiti writers or collectives to register their interest for the 2022 festival and applications are open to artists from all backgrounds, experience levels, disciplines and mediums as long as they don’t mind a big audience!

Artists who had previously been accepted for a place painting at the 2020 festival have already secured their spot, but there’s still opportunities for more artists to join Upfest for the fifteenth year of the festival.

Artists who had previously been accepted for a place painting at the 2020 festival have already secured their spot, but there’s still opportunities for more artists to join Upfest for the fifteenth year of the festival.

Upfest co-founder, Stephen Hayles, explains;

Upfest co-founder, Stephen Hayles, explains;

“We couldn’t be happier that registration for the festival is open. It’s been three years since the last Upfest festival and a lot of the artists chosen will have been waiting since 2020 to come and paint with us.

“We couldn’t be happier that registration for the festival is open. It’s been three years since the last Upfest festival and a lot of the artists chosen will have been waiting since 2020 to come and paint with us.

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The festival will be as a platform for raising money for The National Association for Children of Alcoholics (NACOA) which offers a confidential phone line for children affected by alcoholism within the family unit, to date Upfest has raised over £100,000 for the amazing local charity with a national reach.

Artist registration opened Saturday 22nd January until Sunday 6th February and artists will be contacted by the end of the month to confirm if they’ ve been successful.

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FERTILITY CLINIC FROM DANNII AND FRAN

Dannii and Fran with their scan

Newlyweds Dannii and Fran Thorington Neve, who are expecting their first baby in August, have given an enthusiastic thumbs-up to the new state-of-the-art fertility clinic just opened by Bristol Centre for Reproductive Medicine (BCRM) at Aztec West.

The pair were among the first group of expectant couples to have a pregnancy scan at the clinic and have said they are “bowled over” by the new premises.

Fran, 34, said: “We were thrilled to see the scan of our baby, who is the result of our second round of IVF with BCRM. The whole thing is such an amazing experience, and we are incredibly excited about becoming parents.

“Dannii and I opted for reciprocal IVF, which means she is carrying my embryo, and we’re hoping – after a suitable interval – to be able to do it all over again with me carrying Dannii’s embryo next time, to provide a little brother or sister for this one.”

The couple, who married last July, both work for the UK’s leading veterinary charity, PDSA, where Fran (34) is a vet and Dannii (38) is a veterinary operations manager, and they live in Totterdown in Bristol.

Fran said they are both very impressed by BCRM’s new premises.

“The new clinic has a lovely warm feeling to it: much more spacious and airy. It’s easily accessible, near the junction of the M4 and the M5, and there’s loads of free parking,” she said.

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“Of course, we’re still being seen by the same wonderful BCRM nurses. They just have the nicest team of people there, who make you feel so special and well looked after.”

One of the longest-established fertility operators in the South West, the ever-increasing demand for BCRM’s services was a major driver in their relocation, and the planning for the new clinic has focused on enhancing the patient experience, as well as equipping them to treat a greater number of patients and to continue developing as a centre of excellence.

The Aztec West premises offers a very large consulting suite for patient appointments and a spacious waiting area which affords high levels of privacy and comfort for people coming through, plus the latest technology, laboratories, equipment and treatment rooms for IVF and other fertility treatments with more energy-efficient features and ultramodern theatres.

BCRM treats heterosexual couples, same sex couples and single women, and can help with male as well as female fertility issues.

The clinic has some of the best success rates in the country for IVF and the team is well-known throughout the fertility industry for the dedicated care and support they provide to patients throughout their whole fertility journey and treatment. Further details are available by emailing Contact@BCRM.clinic , call 0117 259 1159 or see www.fertilitybristol. com

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Whats on this week Cabaret with Miss Jam Tart

Stand Up For The Weekend

Date: Friday 28th January Description: Miss Jam Tart is a larger than life Drag Queen who will have you in uncontrollable laughter and up of your seats dancing your pants off. An evening not to be missed

Date: Saturday 29th January Description: 8.30pm (doors 7.45pm) Tickets from £14 each. New Zealander Jarred Christmas has a unique style that deftly mixes gags with storytelling. He has a dynamic onstage persona and the ability to improvise and roll with anything that’s thrown his way, making his comedy sizzle with originality.

Venue: Seamus O’Donnell’s 13 St Nicholas St, Bristol BS1 1UE SGKA - Kids Karate Date: Friday 28th January Description: classes every Friday at Turnberrie’s. SGKA are Members of NISHINIHON Karate Association & The English Karate Federation, the recognised National Governing Body for Karate. It is a not for profit Association. All Instructors are DBS Checked and have PI Insurance.

Venue: Turnberrie’s Community centre Bath Road BS35 2BB Marvin Muoneké LIVE at The Royal Date: Friday 28th January Description: We’re thrilled to announce that the amazing Marvin Muoneké is returning to The Royal! Dubbing himself as “The Young Man with The Old Soul”, once you hear his voice and style, you’ll understand why...

Join us for a fantastic evening of live music from this very talented singer.

Venue: The Royal Hotel Weston-super-Mare, 1 South Parade BS23 1JP The Worried men Date: Friday 28th January Description: In the winter months of 1994, guitarist Jamie Thyer took time out from playing on demonstrations for Marshall amplification and Rotosound strings. He began writing and rehearsing with a rhythm section under the ironic name of The Worried Men. Venue: The Royal Oak Lower Bristol Road Ba2 3bw Bath 8

Venue: hen and Chicken, 210 North Street BS3 1JF Motion x Dad Bod Boogieoogie Date: Saturday 29th January Description: Dan Shake is a renowned purveyor of house and disco, with a knack for merging old-skool funk and contemporary club-orientated cuts. Creating tangible atmospheres on any given dancefloor, Dan has travelled the road with his record bag, taking inspiration from a motley of club cultures along the way. Tickets here Venue: Smoke & Mirrors, 8 Denmark Street BS15DQ Quidditch Date: Saturday 29th January Description: Have you ever wanted to try your hand at a unique and internationally competitive sport? Would you also like the chance to meet new people, who are friendly and welcoming in the Bristol area? Do you want to open your mind to a new and exciting community? The Downs, near the water tower. You can find us on Google Maps as “Bristol Quidditch Club Training” Here Venue: Bristol Quidditch Club, The Downs. click the link above for venue Weekend MiniHoppers Date: Saturday 29th January Description: Ultimate bouncing fun for ages 6 months to 6 years old. Every weekend 9 to 10am. 1 hour of of bouncing fun on our sea of trampolines, ride-ons, mini goals & basket ball hoops.

Venue: Air Hop, Unit 5 Brittania Road, Patchway BS34 5TA

Richard Herring: The Sunday Chat

New Material Stand-Up Comedy Night

Date: Sunday 30th January Description: Join comedian and writer Richard Herring as he turns the interviewing skills honed on his award-winning podcast to quiz the latest in a line-up of celebrity guests which has so far included Stephen Fry, Tim Minchin, Dawn French, Russell Brand and Mary Beard, among dozens of others.

Date: Monday 31st January Description: In the Smoke & Mirrors Theatre we host the very best rising and established comedy talent testing out new material and shows in our Bunch of Japes Stand Up Comedy New Material Nights. Each week we will be joined by a touring headliner with support from other local comedians.

Venue: Online

Venue: Smoke and Mirrors, 8 Denmark Street BS15DQ

Rallycross Winter Championship Date: Sunday 30th January Description: Round 6 of the Winter Championship for the Rallycross classes.

RX - SWB & LWB Format: Open practice 8.00 - 9.30 Open to members and non-members.

Members £ 7.00 Non-Members £10.00 Juniors £ 1.00 Additional class £2.00 Booking in and payment online via the website - www.mendiprcraceway.co.uk.

Venue: Mendip Race way Accommodation Rd BS24 0AP Weston-super-Mare Baptism Day Date: Sunday 30th January Description: EWe are excited to announce an official baptism day on January 30th 2022, we will be filling the pool in anticipation for baptisms. If you believe you are a Christian but have not been baptised and want to please let us know and if you are seeking God and thinking about entering into a relationship with Jesus but are not sure where to start please message us so we can talk to you about the incredible gift of salvation and the awesome act of baptism.

You can find out more about us at www.hillfieldschurch.org Venue: Hillfields Church, Thicket Ave, Bristol BS16 4EH

Albertine Sarges & Johanna Warren Date: Tuesday 1st February Description: Albertine Sarges & Johanna Warren co-headline at Rough Trade Bristol. £10.00 adv. from https://www.seetickets. com/.../rough-trade-records/2182719 14+ (under 18s must be accompanied) Venue: Rough Trade Bristol, 3 New Bridewell, Nelson St, Bristol BS1 2QD WORKFRIENDS LIVE Date: Wednesday 2nd February Description: A just announced workfriends will be headlining the thunderbolt on february the 2nd 2022. On the bill: Workfriends Https://www.Instagram.Com/workfriends_/ Birdfeeder Https://www.Instagram.Com/birdfeeder_band/ Jesus heist Https://www.Instagram.Com/jesusheist_/ Tickets are £6 online or £7 on the door Venue: The Thunderbolt, 124 Bath Road BS4 3ED The Taphouse Sessions Date: Tuesday 3rd February Description: Rob Barnaville “Superb Rob, it’s just great. I love the use of effects, and the dynamics of your playing are great as always.” Jon Gomm https://www.robbarnaville.com Venue: Beard and Sabre Cider Company , 22 Denmark Street BS1 5DQ

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10 STAGES FOR 10 YEARS: LOVE SAVES THE DAY Chase and Status (live), Bicep (live), Mura Masa, Kurupt FM, and Andy C set to headline the two-day festival’s 10 stages at Bristol’s Ashton Court.

Kicking off the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee Weekend, this year’s Love Saves the Day festival is set to be bigger and better than ever before. Playing host to live sets from both headliners Chase & Status and Bicep, and taking place over Bank Holiday Thursday 2nd and Bank Holiday Friday 3rd June, the festival’s diverse offering of fresh talent and towering names will play across 10 stages at its new home, Bristol’s iconic Ashton Court.

Across both days they’re serving up some of the best artists of the moment, from tech-house legends to dnb heroes, artists pushing the parameters of grime and vocalists that touch the soul. From international superstars to emerging acts ready to give their all - and definitely ones to watch - there is something for everyone.

Proudly championing locals as always, and utilising Bristol’s uncapped fountain of emarkable talent, Team Love has pulled out all the stops to celebrate a decade of love.

Alongside the increased capacity there will be ten stages, which includes their iconic and adored favourites such as the 360 degrees Centre Stage and Brouhaha, as well as The Lonely Hearts Club returning from a short hiatus - and brand new bespoke constructions that raise the bar even higher.

Dnb heads can rest assured that both The Blast and RUN partnerships will have them covered. However, for those who prefer house, techno - and all things in between expect to be spoilt for choice. Paradiso has had a total makeover and all-new stage design, while Lost Gardens has been specially curated by Jamz Supernova on the Friday. Festival veterans Teachings in Dub are back and bringing Firmly Rooted Soundsystem, and what would LSTD be without its beloved Shambarbers?

With two new stage additions this year, festival goers are truly in for a treat- that’s if they can find them… Hidden Corners packs a healthy roster of some of Bristol’s best up-and-coming talent. Similarly, Transmission - another new structure for 2022 and hosted

by SWU FM- features some of the City’s most promising young DJs alongside headliners that are notorious for packing a punch.

Organisers have promised the most memorable edition of the festival to date. Penny Warner, Team Love director, explains: “This is a new chapter in the Love Saves story and Ashton Court is an incredibly exciting move for us. It’s allowing us to really expand the event in so many ways; more stages, bigger capacities and some of the most epic line-ups we’ve ever had…and we get the bonus of an extra-long bank holiday weekend!”

Tickets for Love Saves the Day are available to buy now on the event website here

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LIKE THE FREE PARTIES OF DAYS GONE BY, LOVE SAVES THE DAY TAKES ITS RIGHTFUL PLACE AT ONE OF THE MOST ICONIC FESTIVAL SITES IN THE COUNTRY. A JUBILEE PARTY LIKE NO OTHER TO CELEBRATE A DECADE OF LOVE. EXPECT INTERNATIONAL STARS AND THE BIGGEST NAMES IN THE UK ALONGSIDE LOCAL HEROES. A PARTY FOR THE AGES. FREEDOM. LOVE. MUSIC. DANCING. THE BIGGEST LOVE SAVES THE DAY FESTIVAL TO DATE.

BANK HOLIDAY THURS 2ND JUNE

BANK HOLIDAY FRIDAY 3RD JUNE

MAIN STAGES

MAIN STAGES

BICEP

LIVE

KURUPT FM CAROLINE POLACHEK YOUNG T & BUGSEY RAY BLK FOLAMOUR JAYDA G UNKNOWN T

POWER TO THE PEOPLE A/V

ROSS FROM FRIENDS TSHA

SHAYBO MIDAS THE JAGABAN LANCEY FOUX BELLAH AMARIA BB GRUBBO

SBA KARMA M.O.E K*NERS & THE K-STAR TEAM ROCHY ROMERO PARADISO

BROUHAHA HOSTED BY THE BLAST

PATRICK TOPPING

DJ EZ

CENTRE STAGE

B2B

EATS EVERYTHING

FRANKY WAH SHERMANOLOGY ARIELLE FREE ELLIS ROBERTS

THE BLESSED MADONNA

AFTERNOON HEADLINER:

SUB FOCUS

HOLY GOOF

HAAI ANZ MOXIE ELLIE STOKES BILLIE GEORGE

LOST GARDENS

ARTWORK

NATASHA DIGGS LUKE UNA MILLIE MCKEE & MOREY CILLAR SHAMBARBERS

CHAOS IN THE CBD

TRANSMISSION HOSTED BY SWU.FM

YUNG SINGH

OM UNIT B2B DJRUM ADDISON GROOVE EICH THE KELLY TWINS CHLOE SAGE LIVE PAs

FLAVA D PROBLEM CENTRAL KOVEN SAM BINGA w REDDERS + EMZ DJ FLIGHT B2B SWEETPEA RUTH ROYAL BLAST DJS HOSTS: CHICKABOO & JUMA HIDDEN CORNERS

OK WILLIAMS DR BANANA NIKS BRUCE DAR DISKU TAI LOKUN IDO PLUMES

CHASE & STATUS

LIVE

MURA MASA ARLO PARKS EASY LIFE TEMS POTTER PAYPER CASISDEAD AFTERNOON HEADLINER TBA BERWYN PRIYA RAGU GROVE MOONCHILD SANELLY

WATCH THE RIDE CHIKAYA BORN2BE SHOWCASE FESSOR JON

PARADISO HOSTED BY LOVE INTERNATIONAL

PALMS TRAX CALL SUPER DANIELLE MANAMI DAVE HARVEY & CHEZ DE MILO DAISY MOON

SHAMBARBERS HOSTED BY BITCH PLEASE!

HORSE MEAT DISCO

A FOR ALPHA SOFA SOFA SUZE ROSSER BUTCH QUEEN DUVET VOUS EMMY SLEAZY SESSIONS SOUL SHAKE

ALYA L DANI WHYLIE BILL Plus CONCRETE JUNGYALS IN DUB TEACHINGSTED SOUNDSYSTEM LILY HUU LY ROO powered by FIRM unced.

FELIX JOY & Line-up to be anno FOR MORE INFORMATION, NEWS, TICKETS & MORE VISIT FEEL THE REAL PRINCESS KOKO

CENTRE STAGE HOSTED BY RUN

BROUHAHA

ANDY C SONNY GORGON WILKINSON FODERA CITY

FRICTION DJ MARKY A.M.C HARRIET JAXXON D*MINDS B2B NATTY LOU FT TRIGGA & SPYDA

DAZEE B2B EUPHONIQUE CRITICAL IMPACT A LITTLE SOUND KENDRICK B2B ANAIS B2B TS2W HOSTS: GQ, TONN PIPER, JAKES, LINGUISTICS , PHANTOM

AFTERNOON HEADLINER:

SASASAS

PRESENTS: PAST, PRESENT, FUTURE

LOST GARDENS HOSTED BY:

JAMZ SUPERNOVA INDIA JORDAN NIA ARCHIVES SHY ONE SAM INTERFACE VANESSA MARIE B2B DJ POLO TRANSMISSION HOSTED BY SWU.FM

HIDDEN CORNERS

BATU

MY NU LENG & DREAD MC

JOSEY REBELLE MAD MIRAN LCY MEDIS

WWW.LOVESAVESTHEDAY.ORG

HEIDI KITTY AMOR GOTSOME SPICYIVY

A DECADE OF LOVE SAV ES THE DAY

NOTION KYRIST JOSSY MITSU B2B DR DUBPLATE FELIX JOY LEXXI LIVE PAs

11 HIGH-PRODUCTION STAGES AT OUR BRAND NEW SITE • 2 BRAND NEW STAGES FOR 2022 • OVER 175 ARTISTS FROM ACROSS THE UK NO MEANS NO! END HARRASSMENT ON DANCEFLOORS

DO NOT ACCEPT ANY IMITATIONS

R.O.A.R

Right Of Admission Reserved

TICKETS FROM ALL THE USUAL OUTLETS

A BUMPER BANK HOLIDAY OF LOVE

LOVE WILL ALWAYS SAVE THE DAY!

11AM till 11PM Keep The Vibes Alive!

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Award Winning Opera Company back with popular Opera Opera in a Box is delighted to be producing their first full scale performance post-pandemic with the ever-enchanting “Carmen” at The Fire Station.

“Opera in a Box have won a new fan. Having never seen opera performed live, I went along not really knowing what to expect - and I was mesmerised!” (The Marriage of Figaro)

As a touring opera company in the South West of the UK aimed at bringing the opera genre to as wide an audience as possible, we encourage you to take all of your preconceptions about opera and throw them out of the window! Join us to explore the themes of desire, love and fate with some of the most famous tunes ever written.

Director Marianne Vivash says, “Every production of ours is unique, and built entirely around the concept sharing our passion for opera with our audience (often those who have never experienced live opera before).

I’m excited to bring such a well known piece to new audiences through our new production.”

Opera in a Box has set the standard in the South West of up-close and personal operas in unique settings, helping to smash the pre-conceptions of opera that can put off new audience members. We defy you to watch an opera in the same way again!

Opera in a Box perform opera in intimate settings, up close and in English, allowing the audience to witness the story in a new and exciting way. Please contact us for specific requirements.

"The only place you can see the grit and realism up close. The performances and direction were outstanding” (Macbeth)

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The Station (Broadmead), Silver Street, Bristol, BS1 2AG (duration approximately 2h with interval) Tickets can be purchased from www.operainabox.com

SOUTH BRISTOL LINE DANCERS PRESENTS

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FISTFULL LINE DANCERS 3pm Sundays

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St Francis Church Centre, Ashton Gate Bristol, BS3 1JP 13

Fish pie with sweet potato topping

Ingredients

14 sweet potatoes, peeled and cut

Method Preheat the oven to 200°C/fan 180°C/gas 6

400ml semi-skimmed milk, plus a splash for

Bring a large pan of water to the boil

the mash

Add the sweet potato and cook for 20 mins, until tender

6 spring onions, thinly sliced 30g unsalted butter 30g plain white flour 150g frozen garden peas

Drain, leave to steam dry for 2 mins, then return to the pan and mash with a splash of milk Stir in a third of the spring onion and season

4 tbsp finely chopped flat leaf parsley,

Meanwhile, melt the butter in a separate large saucepan

2 smoked haddock fillets, skin removed, cut

Mix in the flour and cook for 2 mins, stirring

into chunks

Gradually add the milk and bring to a simmer, stirring continuously, until smooth

2 salmon fillets, skin removed, cut into chunks 2 skinless cod fillets, cut into chunks Seasonal greens, steamed, to serve

Add the remaining spring onion, peas and parsley, and season Fold the fish into the white sauce until evenly coated, then spoon into a 1.5 litre ovenproof dish Top with the mash and bake on the middle shelf of the oven for 30-35 mins, until golden and bubbling Serve sprinkled with the extra parsley, with seasonal greens on the side

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READY TO LOSE WEIGHT, YOUR WAY? MAN v FAT is coming to South Gloucestershire with our exciting MAN v FAT Challenge programme. Working in partnership with South Gloucestershire Council, we’ve got funded places available for men in the county!

MAN v FAT Challenge is a flexible, supporting male weight loss programme, where you can participate at a time and at a place that suits you!

Weekly challenges are set based on the core areas of nutrition, exercise and building healthy habits. You’ll receive weight loss support, routine and accountability from your teammates and an experienced coach as well as weekly progress reports showing how you’re doing and regular newsletters to inspire you.

We’re ready to welcome you on board now! Take a look at the website www.manvfat.com/south-gloucestershire for more details!

Hengrove Community Centre Fortfield Road BS14 9NX Tuesday 9.30am Sarah: 07879 443888 Tuesday:5.30pm Vicky: 07710 626746

Bridgefarm Primary School East Dundry Road BS14 0LL Wednesday 5.30pm and 7pm Sarah: 07879 443888

CHALLENGE

Christ Church Hall Petherton Road Hengrove BS14 9BP Saturday 9:30am Keesa: 07399 597267

No need to book, just pop along

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Mini chocolate coconut macaroons Ingredients 2 egg whites 80g white caster sugar 125g desiccated coconut 50g dark chocolate

Method Preheat the oven to 180ºC/fan 160ºC/Gas 4 Line a baking tray with baking paper Whisk the egg whites, sugar and a pinch of salt until frothy Add the coconut and mix Wet your hands and roll the mix into 9 balls Bake on the tray for 13-15 mins until just golden Break the dark chocolate into a bowl and melt over simmering water, making sure the bowl doesn’t touch the water Drizzle over the macaroons

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Saver s Monday ce

pri Reduced , all tickets day!

Welcome to Bristol Films & Performance Times: Week Commencing Friday 14th January

Friday 14th

Saturday 15th

Sunday 16th

Monday 17th

Cinema Opens: 4.25pm

Cinema Opens: 10.15am

Cinema Opens: 11.45am

Cinema Opens: 4.25pm

Scream (18) (2hrs.20m) 5.10, 8.00

Scream (18) (2hrs.20m) 5.10, 8.00

Scream (18) (2hrs.20m) 5.10, 8.00

Scream (18) (2hrs.20m) 5.10, 8.00

Licorice Pizza (15) (2hrs.35m) 4.40, 7.45

Licorice Pizza (15) (2hrs.35m) 4.40, 7.45

Licorice Pizza (15) (2hrs.35m) 4.40, 7.45

Licorice Pizza (15) (2hrs.35m) 4.40, 7.45

The King’s Man (15) (2hrs.35m) 4.45

The King’s Man (15) (2hrs.35m) 4.45

The King’s Man (15) (2hrs.35m) 4.45

Spider-Man: No Way Home (12A) (2hrs.30m) 7.35

Spider-Man: No Way Home (12A) (2hrs.30m) 1.45, 7.35

Spider-Man: No Way Home (12A) (2hrs.30m) 1.45, 7.35

The Electrical Life of Louis Wain (12A) (2hrs.10m) 4.50

West Side Story (12A) (3hrs.)

1.00

West Side Story (12A) (3hrs.)

1.00

Clifford the Big Red Dog (PG) (2hrs.)

All Tickets £4.00 12.00

Clifford the Big Red Dog (PG) (2hrs.)

All Tickets £4.00 12.00

Disney’s Encanto (PG) (2hrs.10m) All Tickets £4.00 2.15

Disney’s Encanto (PG) (2hrs.10m) All Tickets £4.00 2.15

Tuesday 18th Cinema Opens: 4.25pm Scream (18) (2hrs.20m) 5.10, 8.00 Licorice Pizza (15) (2hrs.35m) 4.40, 7.45

Ron’s Gone Wrong (PG) (2hrs.), 10.30am

Scream (18) (2hrs.20m) 5.10, 8.00 Licorice Pizza (15) (2hrs.35m) 4.40, 7.45

Cinema Opens: 12.45pm Scream (18) (2hrs.20m) 5.10, 8.00

Spider-Man: No Way Home (12A) (2hrs.30m) 7.30

Licorice Pizza (15) (2hrs.35m) 4.40, 7.45

High Frame Rate

The Electrical Life of Louis West Side Story (12A) (3hrs.)

Wain 1.00 (12A) (2hrs.10m) 2.10 Event Cinema Royal Opera House Spider-Man: Tosca No Way Home (12A) (3hrs.25m) (12A) (2hrs.30m) Doors open at 6.30 for 7.00 3.15 start

3D performance

covid policies change Tuesday 21st from 10th december

Cinema Opens: 12.15pm

The policies and procedures surrounding Covid-Secure guidance changes from Friday 10th December.

Click here to read our updated procedures, as we continue to manage the situation in a steady, safer manner.

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Spider-Man: No Way Home (12A) (2hrs.30m) 7.30

No Free Tickets

You no longer need to check-in or leave your details.

Physical distancing guidelines will still apply in the cinema.

Enhanced cleaning and hygiene is here to stay.

All venues will have QR posters should you wish to check-in, and you can continue to leave your details when you book online if you would like to.

Although all rows of seats will now be in use, there will still be a 1seat gap between you and anyone else, so no need to share an arm rest with anyone just yet.

More cleaning time is being left between shows, and our enhanced cleaning regime will be in place permanently. Please continue to use the hand sanitiser provided.

Face coverings are mandatory for people of the age of 11, unless exempt.

You can take your mask off to eat & drink when seated in the auditorium but must replace if you are not actively eating or drinking.

Cinema Information

The Electrical Life of Louis Wain contains infrequent strong language.

Spider-Man: No Way Home contains moderate violence, threat.

West Side Story contains moderate violence, discrimination, sexual threat, implied strong language.

A WTW-SCOTT CINEMAS GROUP VENUE

The Electrical Life of Louis Wain (12A) (2hrs.10m) 4.50

Subtitled Show

This weeks BBFC advice for 12A rated lms

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Thursday 20th Cinema Opens: 4.25pm

Wednesday 19th

The Electrical Life of Louis Wain (12A) (2hrs.10m) 4.50

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Spider-Man: No Way Home (12A) (2hrs.30m) 7.30

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WHATS ON AT THE CINEMA THIS WEEK

SING 2 his January, the new chapter in Illumination’s smash animated franchise returns with big dreams and spectacular hit songs as can-do koala Buster Moon and his all-star cast of animal performers prepare to launch their most dazzling stage extravaganza yet …in the glittering entertainment capital of the world. There’s just one hitch: They first have to persuade the world’s most reclusive rock star—played by legendary music icon Bono, making his animated film debut—to join them. Buster (Oscar® winner Matthew McConaughey) and his cast have turned the New Moon Theater into a local hit, but Buster has his eyes on a bigger prize: Debuting a new show at the Crystal Tower Theater in glamorous Redshore City.

NIGHTMARE ALLEY Director Guillermo del Toro returns to the big screen! An ambitious young carny with a talent for manipulating people with a few well-chosen words hooks up with a female psychiatrist who is even more dangerous than he is.

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HIGHWAY CODE CHANGES TAKING EFFECT THIS WEEK A major update bring hierarchy of road users and change how road users use junctions, roundabouts and crossings At the end of January will bring major changes to the Highway Code, with new rules on who has right of way in certain circumstances, the responsibilities of different groups of road users and new guidance on using roundabouts and other junctions.

There are eight completely new rules and over 40 rules are being amended as part of the 2022 update. click here The biggest changes relate to rules around a hierarchy of road users and who has priority at junctions, crossings and roundabouts but below we’ve rounded up all the new rules and some of the key updates to existing ones.

According to the Department for Transport, Children, older adults and disabled people are at the top of the hierarchy, followed by other pedestrians, cyclists, horse riders and motorcyclists.

Rule H1 is completely new and states: “Those in charge of vehicles that can cause the greatest harm in the event of a collision bear the greatest responsibility to take care and reduce the danger they pose to others.

This principle applies most strongly to drivers of large goods and passenger vehicles, vans/ minibuses, cars/taxis and motorcycles.

“Cyclists, horse riders and drivers of horse drawn vehicles likewise have a responsibility to reduce danger to pedestrians.”

“None of this detracts from the responsibility of ALL road users, including pedestrians, cyclists and horse riders, to have regard for their own and other road users’ safety.”

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Rule H2 changes the rules around behaviour at junctions and other shared road spaces.

It emphasises that drivers, motorcyclists, horse drawn vehicles, horse riders and cyclists “should give way to pedestrians crossing or waiting to cross a road into which or from which you are turning.

“You must give way to pedestrians on a zebra crossing, and to pedestrians and cyclists on a parallel crossing.”

It also highlights that horse riders should give way to pedestrians on a zebra crossing, and to pedestrians and cyclists on a parallel crossing, while cyclists should give way to pedestrians on shared routes.

Rule H3 applies to drivers and motorcyclists and states that “you should not cut across cyclists, horse riders or horse drawn vehicles going ahead when you are turning into or out of a junction or changing direction or lane, just as you would not turn across the path of another motor vehicle.”

The rule advises to stop and wait for a safe gap in the flow of cyclists if necessary. This includes when cyclists are: • Approaching, passing or moving off from a junction • Moving past or waiting alongside stationary or slow-moving traffic • Travelling around a roundabout Updates to rule 186 also emphasise you should give priority to cyclists on the roundabout. They will be travelling more slowly than motorised traffic.

Give them plenty of room and do not attempt to overtake them within their lane. Allow them to move across your path as they travel around the roundabout. Drivers should take extra care when entering a roundabout to ensure that they do not cut across cyclists, horse riders or horse drawn vehicles in the left-hand lane, who are continuing around the roundabout.

A change to rule 163 also introduces official guidance on how much space drivers should give when overtaking cyclists and horses.

You should give at least as much room as you would when overtaking a car, with the guidance recommending at least 1.5 metres space at speeds of up to 30mph and more space at higher speeds.

Cyclists Several new rules apply specifically to cyclists, replacing or significantly altering existing rules.

Updates to existing rules include advice on high-visibility clothing and the use of helmets as well as detailing the different types of cycle routes, lanes and tracks. They also include new wording regarding controlling a bicycle, passing parked cars and advising against overtaking large vehicles on the left unless they are stationary or moving very slowly.

The 63rd rule is an entirely new rule that emphasises that cyclists should take care and slow down when passing pedestrians, horse riders or horse drawn vehicles on shared routes. They should also let other users know they are there, for example, by ringing their bell.

Do not pass pedestrians, horse riders or horse drawn vehicles closely or at high speed, particularly from behind. You should not pass a horse on their left.”

72nd rule is also new and sets out two basic road positions cyclists should adopt, depending on the situation.

1. Ride in the centre of your lane, to make yourself as clearly visible as possible, in the following situations: • On quiet roads or streets – if a faster vehicle comes up behind you, move to the left to enable them to overtake, if you can do so safely

• In slower-moving traffic - when the traffic around you starts to flow more freely move over to the left if you can do so safely so that faster vehicles behind you can overtake • At the approach to junctions or road narrowins where it would be unsafe for drivers to overtake you 2. When riding on busy roads, with vehicles moving faster than you, allow them to overtake where it is safe to do so whilst keeping at least 0.5 metres away, and further where it is safer, from the kerb edge.

The 73rd rule covers how cyclists use junctions. It recommends using special cycle facilities such as advanced stop lines at any junction that has them, adding: “At junctions with no separate cyclist facilities, it is recommended that you proceed as if you were driving a motor vehicle. Position yourself in the centre of your chosen lane, where you feel able to do this safely, to make yourself as visible as possible and to avoid being overtaken where this would be dangerous.

Rule 75 is also completely new and relates to two-stage turns.

At some signal-controlled junctions there may be signs and markings informing cyclists to turn right in two stages: Stage 1: When the traffic lights turn green, cyclists wishing to make the turn should go straight ahead to the location marked by a cycle symbol and turn arrow on the carriageway; then stop and wait there Stage 2: When the traffic lights on the far side of the junction, now facing the cyclists, turn green, they should then complete the manoeuvre And rule 76 is new too highlighting that cyclists travelling straight ahead at a junction now have priority over traffic waiting to turn into or out of the side road, unless road signs or markings indicate otherwise.

However, it advises that cyclists check that they can proceed safely, particularly when approaching junctions on the left alongside stationary or slow-moving traffic and to watch out for drivers intending to turn across their path.

This should be fun then!

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Help for mums to get back into employment Up to 30 North Somerset women who have struggled to find a job after having children can get free help to return to the workplace thanks to the launch of a new project.

The Women’s Work Lab is a community interest company which supports women in the South West back into work after extended career breaks and to kickstart careers. It is open to women who are out of work and in receipt of Universal Credit.

The programme will run twice in North Somerset – firstly in Weston-super-Mare from March and then it will be repeated in Clevedon from September.

The 12-week programme combines face to face expert training with a formal work placement at a respected local employer. A mentor will provide ongoing support for six months after the programme has ended. All training and work placements take place in term-time and only during school hours.

Training for the first cohort will start on 17 March at The Campus in Weston-superMare. Sessions will take place on Thursday and Friday mornings from 10am to 1pm.

The training location, dates and times of the Clevedon-based second cohort will be announced in March.

Women interested in signing up to either programme should click here or contact Paige Josham by calling 07464 015762 or emailing paige@womensworklab.co.uk.

The Women’s Work Lab would also like to hear from North Somerset businesses interested in hosting a mum on placement.

This would involve providing experience of an entry-level role for 15 hours a week, during school hours, for four weeks in May. 22

Typically, the shift pattern would be Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday between 9.30am and 2.30pm. Often employers offer rotating placements so mums can find out about different career opportunities within their organisation.

The Women’s Work Lab is the first training programme of its kind in the UK. It helps to build women’s confidence through teaching new skills and providing a supportive peer group.

Rachel Mostyn, co-founder of Women’s Work Lab, said: “We are looking for unemployed women who are receiving benefits. We don’t mind why this is but we want to help them find their own path back into employment.

What’s important to us is not what they’ve been doing up until now, but the fact that they are ambitious to make a change and have a willingness to learn. We can help women explore career options, supported by coaching and invaluable peer support from other women with the same kinds of experiences and ambitions. The programme is free of charge and travel expenses may be covered.”

Following the success of the programme in Bristol and Bath, the scheme is being supported by North Somerset Council thanks to Flexible Support Funding through the Department of Work and Pensions.

Councillor Catherine Gibbons, North Somerset Council’s executive member responsible for lifelong learning, said: “This is a worthwhile initiative helping break down barriers women may be experiencing in returning to the workplace after having children. I look forward to seeing the women of North Somerset benefitting when it gets under way in our area.

“I encourage eligible women to apply. I also hope to see many businesses register to provide work experience opportunities.”

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Focus on: Wyevale enforcement notices served Last Wednesday, 4 PENs were served in respect of cases 1 and 3. The requirement of the PENs is to permanently remove from the land all items of construction plant and equipment and all portable buildings, to remove all of the earth bunds that have been formed on the land, to cease all use of the land as builder's yard and scaffold storage yard, and to remove all hard surfacing laid from the land and remove all the resulting spoil from the land.

All four PENs have a 3 month compliance period. There is a right of appeal and when we met one of the landowners last year, he told us that it was his land and he could do what he wanted with it but we hope on this occasion the landowners will comply.

New supported bus service:

Wyevale enforcement notices served: Concerned local residents will be pleased to learn that after lengthy delays (and a lot of emails, phone calls, meetings and questions at Full Council and planning meetings!)

Planning Enforcement Notices (PENs) have finally been served on the owners of the former Wyevale Garden Centre site on the A4 Bath Road in Brislington West. There are currently 4 cases: 1. The laying of hardstanding and use of land to the rear of the former garden centre.

2. The removal of trees on Green Belt field.

This case is currently on hold as the Forestry Commission are dealing with an Appeal against a re-stocking order that they served on the landowner requiring replanting of trees.

3. Earth moving and regrading of the land, including the formation of bunds and storage of construction plant and equipment and portable buildings on Green Belt field.

4. Removal of line of self-seeded trees in front of fencing towards middle of site (at rear of car park land). This case is still under assessment.

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Last year, we met with transport officers from the West of England Combined Authority (WECA) and the Bristol City Council cabinet member for transport to discuss bus services in Brislington West. We were particularly concerned about the lack of public transport serving the large Hungerford Road community. Many older residents there don’t have a car and they have told us they feel isolated and cut off.

We suggested that the route of one of the local supported bus services could be amended to include Hungerford Road so that residents would have better access to local shopping areas and the doctor’s.

We are pleased these comments have been taken on board (excuse the pun!) and WECA is now about to commence a retendering of supported bus services across the region, including our local 513/514 bus services that operate in both Brislington West and East.

The proposal is to change the 513/514 into one circular service with improved frequency.

WECA are considering a few route options at the moment and in our feedback we stressed the importance of including Hungerford Road, connecting all the local shopping areas and the library and doctor’s surgery on Wick Road. Ideally, the new bus service would also include Avonmeads, however, we have heard there is a problem with the land owner and getting permission.

We’ve asked WECA to try to resolve this.

The current plans are to provide a Mon-Fri service and we have also asked if it could be extended to include Saturdays too. On a side note, First Bus have just introduced new ticket types in Bristol. More details here.

Hedge planting at Arnos Court: This Thursday, 27 January, we will be planting our new A4 Bath Road perimeter hedge with the help of local schoolchildren.

This is the postponed planting session from December. We will be putting in a native species hedgerow of 200 saplings funded by One Tree Per Child. Over time it will provide both a visual barrier between the busy A4 Bath Road and the park and a pollution screen to help clear up our air. If you’d like to find out more and possibly get involved, please sign up here.

Lord Mayor’s Medals: We would like to remind you that this year’s round of Lord Mayor’s Medals are still open.

The deadline has been extended to Friday 28th January. We encourage you all to make nominations (this can be for an individual or an organisation).

The nomination form is available here: https://www.bristol.gov.uk/council-and-mayor/ nominate-someone-for-a-lord-mayors-medal New tree for Hampstead Road: We are delighted to see the replacement tree finally planted on Hampstead Road. The old tree was removed by council tree officers in May, 2020 as it was in a poor condition with basal decay and an increasing lean. Tree officers had hoped a member of the public would sponsor the plot in order to fund a new tree last year but this did not materialise and so the replacement tree, a sea buckthorn, was not included in the planting list for the 2021 tree planting season. We got in touch with council tree officers to hurry the process along and also to suggest alternative funding sources and we are pleased to say this was secured and the replacement tree has now been planted.

Highway Code changes: Don’t forget the updated road hierarchy coming into force this week. These changes aim to improve road safety for more vulnerable road users such as cyclists and pedestrians, who are most likely to get injured in an accident. It is now the responsibility of a car driver to be aware of cyclists, pedestrians, or horse riders. For example, when a car is turning into a road or exiting a road, they should stop to let pedestrians cross. Cyclists travelling straight ahead at road junctions will now be given priority over drivers who are turning in or out or changing lanes. More details here.

Commercial bins causing an unsightly obstruction: A local resident got in touch about large, unsightly commercial bins blocking the pavement on Repton Road. We informed the council and are pleased to report that a Waste Enforcement Officer visited the business to direct them to move the bins.

Christmas tree collection: We noticed that there was a mix-up with the Christmas tree collection in some parts of the ward. We got in touch with Bristol Waste and they came back to pick up the trees they had missed. If your tree still hasn’t been collected, let us know.

Neighbourhood enforcement in Repton Road Car Park: In recent months ‘detritus’ has been spilling out of a garage onto the council-owned car park on Repton Road. Following an enquiry from a concerned resident, we got in touch with the council. In response, neighbourhood enforcement have visited the car park and ordered the owner to remove any waste/items that should not be there.

Hundreds of Brislington West residents have signed up to receive our monthly newsletter via email. You can register using this link here

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 25

Bristol City Council to invest £1.8 billion in council homes

Proposals to invest a record £1.8 billion in council homes in the city have been unveiled

by Bristol City Council, that could see over 2,000 new council homes built in the next seven years.

The proposed investment forms part of a 30-year plan that was presented to the city’s Cabinet this week (18 January) and represents the biggest proposed investment in council homes the city has seen in over a generation.

Proposals contained within the Housing Revenue Account business plan have been developed with the input of almost 1,500 local residents who responded to the city’s Big Housing Conversation last year.

Residents of the city were asked how the council should invest in council homes. The top three priorities identified by those who took part were: 1. Building much-needed new council homes 2. Work to make Bristol City Council’s existing homes more energy efficient and carbon neutral 3. Work to improve the standards in Bristol City Council’s blocks, communal areas, and estates.

Councillor Tom Renhard, Cabinet Member for Housing Delivery and Homes, said: “We know we have a housing crisis in Bristol, and we want to be part of finding solutions

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“If our plans are approved, delivery of new council homes will be increased, through borrowing, to 2,069 over the next seven years. This will quadruple the current planned Housing Revenue Account development programme. The 30-year life of the plan will allow us to invest a total of £1.8billion in new council homes – something we know the city needs and wants.

“Two-thirds of those who took part in the consultation were supportive of us increasing rents to be able to invest more. Government policy currently allows us to increase rents for the next financial year by 4.1 per cent – this would be an average of £3.34 a week extra for residents. This extra income will allow us to invest more in our existing homes, providing an additional £80m for energy efficiency and carbon retrofitting measures by 2030 - to help us meet our ambitious climate change goals. This amount would bring committed funding to a total of £97m for energy efficiency and carbon retrofitting measures, in addition to the £42m that has been invested over the previous five years.

“Our plans also include £12.5m for a five-year bathroom replacement programme that will deliver over 5,500 modern new bathrooms in council homes by 2027, and an additional £8.7m over five years to improve standards in communal areas, blocks and estates. These are both investments residents of the city asked us to prioritise.”

The Housing Revenue Account Business Plan recommendations were endorsed by Cabinet on 18 January and will be presented to Full Council at their meeting on 15 February.

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SELF ASSESSMENT DEADLINE IS COMING

JAN 31 ARE YOU UP TO DATE?

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Introducing the new ‘Our Whitchurch and Hengrove Community Group’ During the lockdown a team of local volunteers got together and organised over 150 people to help those in need due to the pandemic.

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The committee welcomed another new member.

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Prescriptions were collected, shopping was done, dogs were walked etc, etc. Some core team have since reflected and felt that there was a needed to have a focal point as a source of information in the Hengrove and Whitchurch Park ward of South Bristol.

Progress has been made towards funding FIVE, potentially lifesaving, defibrators in OUR area.

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We made moves towards becoming a CIC (Community Interest Company) this will give us access to apply for additional funds that will benefit our area.

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We hope to have an in-person meeting soon so that the members of our group can come and chat with the members of the committee. In this way, we can move forward, in the right direction, to truly be of benefit to OUR community.

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We are planning to host a further FORUM meeting for people to let councillors know what their priorities are for any money to be allocated to our area.

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We have been offered Asda Whitchurch's free Community Room for our committee ‘in-person’ meetings. (which we will be doing as soon as it is safe and comfortable to do so).

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We sowed the seeds to perhaps have a community event during the Queens Jubilee weekend.

‘’Our Whitchurch and Hengrove Community Group’’ was born primarily as a ‘go to’ place to get the contact details and information about all of the groups, clubs and organisations etc on our doorstep. We are an umbrella group to cover OUR area.

We are particularly keen to help and support the groups that are run by volunteers.

Here are the bullet points from our January meeting:

We have a group on ‘FACEBOOK’ and a ‘NEXT DOOR phone app’. We also have a website www.whitchurchandhengrove.co.uk All local people are welcome you join our group.

Email: whitchurchandhengrove@gmail.com Please also look out for our posters, with our umbrella on them. We are hoping to start displaying them, in our area, early this year 28

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Does retiring early mean an early death?

The latest research suggests that those ending work younger are more likely to die earlier than those staying in jobs.

A spot of gardening, going travelling – who hasn’t daydreamed about early retirement?

So damn the latest study in the Journal of Epidemiology and Community Health that shows an early retirement can mean less time to enjoy it.

You might assume the effect was caused by sicker people retiring earlier and dying prematurely, but this study really tries to take that into account. The researchers analysed data from 2,956 people who were part of the Healthy Retirement Study funded by the National Institute on Aging in America. People were divided into unhealthy and healthy retirees based on whether they said sickness influenced their decision to stop work: about two-thirds were healthy and a third unhealthy.

During the 18 years of the study, 12% of the healthy and 25.6% of the unhealthy group died. After taking into account factors such as the healthy group’s better education and finances, they found that healthy retirees who worked a year longer (over the age of 65) had an 11% lower ‘all-cause mortality risk”. Even the unhealthy group reduced their likelihood of dying by 9% if they delayed retirement.

This seems counterintuitive. If anything should kill you, surely it’s dragging yourself into work until your late 60s.

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There is at least one study showing that people are happier, even if they’re not healthier, after retiring, especially if it was their own decision, but the evidence overall is not clearcut. An Israeli study of 2,374 people found that those who retired earlier had the same lifespan as those who did not.

A German study from 2009, Time to Retire – Time to Die?, is one of the few to find that healthier people who retire before the age of 61 may live longer than those who continue to work. But this study, like some others, may not fully account for differences in occupation – heavy manual jobs may take more of a toll than managerial ones.

A Swedish study found that women in non-manual jobs who retired had a higher risk of dying from heart disease whenever they left work, compared with those who stayed in jobs. But a Swedish study of army officers found early retirement reduced the likelihood of dying by the age of 70 by 26%.

Many people will continue working from financial necessity. But if you can afford to stop working earlier and you’re healthy, you shouldn’t postpone retirement out of fear it could kill you. It maybe what work represents to people that prolongs life – not employment itself. Keeping active and getting involved in voluntary work definitely brings retirees a lot of benefits that would have been brought about by keeping on working.

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HOW CAN YOU SURVIVE THE CRAZINESS OF The UK is a world leader in higher education. Britain is the third most popular country in the world for international students (August 2021) and the number of international students applying to UK universities has doubled in the last 20 years.

Many landlords look to invest in student properties, for the above and for the following reasons: 1. Demand is high and the student rental market doesn’t fluctuate to the same extent as the rest of the private rental sector.

2. Rental cycles are predictable and most student lets follow a pattern, as students will live in a property for the duration of their academic year. Sometimes longer.

Students can cause more damage, leaving the landlord with a large refurb bill at the end of a tenancy. In our experience, this is the top concern of landlords when discussing student lets.

3. The model is financially robust. Often the yields are higher for student lets, students will Drugs, parties, late payment of rent, angry pay their own bills and, full time students are neighbours – all self-explanatory but are exempt from Council Tax. In addition to this, things we hear often, when discussing your void rate will be low, because students previous experiences with landlords. will sign a contract for the whole year.

Despite all of the above, student lets have garnered a bad reputation in some circles and we often find landlords shaking their heads vigorously and taking a sharp intake of breath, when we discuss their options and mention the property model as a possibility. With all the obvious benefits, why is this the case?

Student lets tend to fall under the definition of HMOs (3 or more tenants, from 2 or more households) which is a compliance and regulation heavy property model. HMOs (Houses of Multiple Occupation) are not for the faint hearted or inexperienced.

Some students, especially first and second years, may not have lived independently before and find certain things like changing lightbulbs, budgeting for food, conserving energy, locating a fuse-box, taking out bins, getting on with their housemates etc., challenging, as they have never dealt with them before. This often causes disharmony within the house and lots of phone calls to the landlord or the agent.

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By far and away the biggest objection from landlords seems to be damage, with one landlord telling us “…it was fine, I just expected to have to decorate the whole house at the end of every tenancy and wipe obscene drawings off the white goods…” Some agents even recommend a slightly shorter tenancy, to allow time for a repaint between turnarounds, because this is their expectation of the tenancy.

F STUDENT LETTINGS! So, with all this in mind, how can you plan for a successful student tenancy, which won’t break the bank and leave you prematurely grey?

Communicate with them well and clearly throughout the tenancy.

Understand that they may not be as experienced at living independently and have videos to hand on common household tasks like changing a lightbulb, repressurizing a boiler, locating a fuse box.

Have a handout on mould as part of the contract and draw their attention to it, explain what causes it and why this is important.

Firstly, we’d say, choose better tenants!

Just because they’re students, doesn’t mean they have to be a nightmare. Know what types of students tend to make better tenants (those looking early, as they will be better organised and more diligent and more mature students like post grads for example), interview them well and use the same criteria you’d use for selection of other tenant types, make sure that you see the whole group not Prepare to be patient - if you act just the lead tenant and ensure that you watch negatively every time they report the group dynamic – how do they behave and something, guess what will happen… and, interact with each other? trust us, you do want to know!

Ensure you have Guarantors, reference the Guarantors and make sure that your Guarantor Agreements are legal and watertight.

Take deposits and protect them in a Government backed scheme.

Prepare a clear inventory, complete with pictures and ensure that every tenant in the group will be there at the check-in to go through the inventory. Advise them that you will also expect this at the check-out.

Inspect your property regularly.

With some preparation, good and clear communication, common sense, and goodwill student lets can run very smoothly.

Our advice would be to take the time and effort setting things up correctly and be diligent with your management processes and you will reap the benefits of this lucrative and popular model.

Go through the contract with them, to make sure that they understand the document and what is expected of them and where they should go if they have a problem.

Give them a house booklet – an abridged version of the contract, detailing things like emergency numbers, bin rotas, Wi-Fi codes, location of the stop cock, bus routes and common “what to do ifs…”

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BUYING YOUR FIRST HOME IN 2022: HERE IS SIX TIPS TO HELP YOU ON YOUR WAY

For first time buyers the prospect of getting on the property ladder feels overwhelming and out of reach. Here we simplify the essential first steps and set out what you need to do and what help you can access to enable you to buy your first home.

1. Start building a deposit

In order to buy your first home you need to save a deposit. Your mortgage deposit will normally need to be for at least 5% of the value of the property you want to buy. So if you want to buy a home costing £250,000, you’ll need to save up a deposit of at least £12,500. Ideally though you would save more than 5%; the bigger the deposit the wider range of mortgages you’ll be able to access and at cheaper rates. This is because with a bigger deposit you’re perceived as lower risk by mortgage lenders.

As house prices have soared so has the amount you need to save – the average first-time buyer needs a £33,000 deposit, according to Halifax. The good news is the government can help you save if you choose the right account.

Help to Buy ISAs and Lifetime ISAs can both give your house savings a big boost. You can save up to £200 a month into a Help to Buy ISA and the money will grow tax-free.

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Plus, when you are ready to buy a home the government will add another 25% to your balance. With a Lifetime ISA you can save up to £4,000 a year with the government adding a 25% bonus annually.

2. Check your credit score

While you are saving to buy your first home you can start sprucing up your credit rating ready for when you make a mortgage application. Lenders want to see you are a reliable borrower when they are assessing your mortgage application, so it helps to have a good credit score.

3. Clean up your current account

How much you can borrow will be determined by your lender who will do an affordability test based on your income and monthly outgoings. It can be a really good idea therefore to go through your current account six months before you make a mortgage application and see for yourself where all your money is going. If you have an expensive gym membership, regular big nights out or expensive credit agreements try to cancel them and curtail your spending so that your finances look in better shape when the lender starts looking.

4. Understand the costs of buying and owning a home

When it is time to buy your first home you’ll find it involves a lot of additional costs that you need to factor in when working out what you can afford. This includes legal fees, taxes, surveys and removal costs.

Once you own your first home you’ll discover there are also a lot of costs involved in running it that you may never have had to deal with before. This includes ground rent, service charges, ongoing maintenance costs and lots more.

5. Speak to a mortgage broker It’s amazing how many people think they are a mortgage expert and arrange the biggest loan of their lives without getting any advice or shopping around. But, with a six-figure loan a tiny difference in the interest rate can mean you end up paying tens of thousands of pounds more over the lifetime of your mortgage.

For example, a £200,000 mortgage at 3.5% will cost you almost £2,000 more over three years than the same mortgage at 3%.

Similarly, the fees on your mortgage can make a big difference to the overall cost of buying your first home.

It’s not just the mortgage rate you need to consider but also the type of mortgage, whether fixed or variable and the term of the mortgage (usually 25 years but it could be 35 years so that repayments can be stretched over a longer period, making them more affordable month on month).

Mortgage brokers will also be up on new mortgage products like Deposit Unlock or Green mortgages and can discuss the pros and cons of these.

Use a mortgage broker and their expertise will mean you get the best possible mortgage for your circumstances at the lowest possible rate. They can also help you navigate the mortgage market for the first time, explore options and may introduce you to lenders who you’ve never even heard of but have the best product for you and your circumstances.

6. Talk to your family

You don’t have to go it alone when you want to buy your first home. Your family may be able to help you in a number of ways. The Bank of Mum and Dad is now considered the seventh biggest lender in the UK mortgage market because so many parents are helping their children stump up a deposit on their first home.

Has your property gone up in price?

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Dressing Well in Your 50’s Hitting the milestone of a middle-age marker is no reason to let style fall to the wayside. In fact, it's more of a reason to step up your game and dress sleeker than ever. While you may feel like your body isn't exactly working with you like it used to, there are so many tricks out there for how to dress over 50 and enjoy your sixth decade in style.

Confidence levels spike with age, and now that you're well seasoned, let your wardrobe reflect that self-esteem!

1. Choose small prints that work for you

3. Leggings are for the gym

Ladies, a large, bold pattern can unfortunately be your downfall. A smaller print, however, that’s not worn head-to-toe can do wonders for slimming the body and serving as a bold conversation piece.

Fine, you can wear them around your house, too, but that’s it. Leggings are officially no longer appropriate.

2. Go for the chicness of a pocket square

Now that you’re in your 50s, you can likely afford better quality stuff. But just because you’re indulging in more well-known, expensive brands, doesn’t mean that you should be flaunting it across your chest.

Choose pieces with subtle branding only–as in the form of a small logo rather than a large print word.

Men, you’ve been waiting your whole life to be mature enough to pull of a pocket square.

Now that you’re in your 50s, you’ve aged like fine wine and there’s no better time.

4. Choose subtle branding

5. Keep heels to a minimum Too-high heels sometimes encourage bad posture behavior. And worse: They can create the illusion of saggy boobs, which let’s face it—no woman in her 50s wants! Instead, keep heels age-appropriate and on the lower side.

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6. Embrace your glasses All four of your eyes may have gotten you made fun of in middle school but now, they’re officially your best, most wise-looking accessory. Because if there’s one thing we should embrace with fashion for women over 50, it’s embracing our natural features, and that includes glasses.

9. Say no to ripped or “distressed” anything If you’re wondering how to dress over 50, the first step is going to be eliminating any juvenile fashions from your wardrobe. That includes ripped and distressed jeans (or anything else!). Just say no.

7. Say no to ankle boots Booties are for teenagers (especially when paired with skirts or dresses). Say no to ankle boots unless it’s with a well-tailored trouser that tapers off at the ankle.

8. Build your tie repertoire You should have ditched the novelty tie a long time ago but if you’re still only working with a handful of ties, it’s time to step it up.

Wool ties, knitted ties, silk ties–all should be staples in your tie collection. Throw a bow tie in there for good measure, too. For more on what makes a suit look good on anyone.

10. Be wary of cheap denim Inexpensive and inherently poorly-made denim is easy to get away with when you’re young and your body tight and firm. But in your 50s, it’s a dead giveaway. Opt for a bootleg jean, which will lengthen your legs and flatter your tummy in the best way possible.

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YOUR GARDEN IN February If you’re a keen gardener February is a month filled with anticipation. The first signs of life are beginning to emerge as plants shake off their winter dormancy and wildlife begins to wake.

Light levels are increasing, temperatures are rising and splashes of colour are beginning to creep back into the garden. Spring is on its way and there is plenty of preparation to do.

3 ESSENTIAL GARDENING JOBS FOR FEBRUARY Prune plants

Prune late flowering shrubs such as fuchsia, hydrangea, buddleja and ceanothus. Using sharp secateurs, cut just above an outward pointing bud. Aim to remove about a third of the height of the shrub and try to maintain an even shape. Check other shrubs and remove any dead, diseased or damaged branches to keep the plant healthy. Try to avoid pruning early flowering shrubs until after they have flowered.

Give the lawn a light mow

If the weather is warm you may need to start mowing. Set the cutting height on your mower to its maximum and only mow when it’s dry. Re-cutting lawn edges will also give an instant lift to the appearance of the garden.

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Plant shrubs and trees

February is the ideal time to plant new shrubs and trees while they are still in their dormant state. Make sure the ground is not frozen or water logged before planting. Stakes and rabbit guards should be put in place at the time of planting to prevent damage to the root ball or bark. It’s also a good idea to check ties and stakes on existing plants and replace, tighten or slacken where necessary.

Plant of the month: Camellias Why should you plant them?

Welcome in the spring with Camellias-these hardy shrubs have glossy evergreen leaves and display flowers that brighten up your winter. An early riser in terms of plants waking up from the winter snooze. Camellias burst into flower in February just as the rest of the garden is starting to blink its eyes at the sunshine.

Camellias like to grow in acidic soil so need planting with ericaceous compost. feed with ericaceous plant food to keep the leaves glossy and green and water well once the flower buds appear-although the flowers wont break until February. The buds will begin to develop in autumn.

How should you plant them?

Camellias are easy to grow and flower relliably-the most important thing is choosing the right spot. Although a hardy shrub their flower buds are susceptible to frost once they start to develop so plant in a sheltered spot and wrap with fleece when frost is forecast.

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Aquarius Jan 20 - Feb 18

Taurus Apr 20 - May 20

Although things aren’t moving very much for you at the moment, this will change.

New ideas, new interests, are very much on their way for you. You are very strong and independent person, and sometimes find people difficult, try and be aware of being sensitive to other’s needs, and occasionally A little more flexible and possibly tolerant with others.

Keywords. New things on wait, sensitivity and flexibility.

If you are feeling a bit held up and stuck, be aware that things will begin to change for you. Patience could be your best friend at the moment, and look out for ways to work with achieving your goals, and working with change. It may be a good time to do a reflective overview of your ideas and goals.

Keywords. Overview and changes

Pisces Feb 19 - Mar 20

Our current situation is very challenging, and it is very likely you are feeling stuck and lightly stressed, so try and make some time for yourself as well as looking after everyone else. Look for opportunities to find laughter, this is a great stress reliever, and brings positive energy to those around you too.

Keywords look after you as well as others.

Aries Mar 21 - April 19

This could be a good time to learn something new, or revisit something you learn’t a while ago. Your intuition would be good work with at this time, so as you don’t miss out on any useful information, knowledge, or finding opportunities for new things.

Keywords. Intuition and opportunities 42

Gemini May 21 - June 20

If you are feeling a bit fed up and things are repetitive, remember nothing stays the same.

Try and find the positives about being at home. Find a new hobby or maybe fixing things that have been forgotten. Look after yourself, and maybe try some new things maybe new foods, or new TV programmes, et cetera.

Keywords. Be positive, and look after yourself

Cancer June 21 - July 22 If you’re finding it hard going at present, due to current circumstances, Give yourself some time to look for new interests, hobbies, or sorting out things that have been put on hold. You are not alone in this situation, try and make the most of Being indoors, and being able to sort or change things in your home environment, or get on with new interests or resume old ones.

Keywords. Look for opportunities, and new ideas.

Leo Jul 23 - Aug 22

Scorpio Oct 23 - Nov 21

If you feel your inspirations have left you, it won’t be for long. Try not to over think things, and you may find you have one of those light bulb moments, which will give you a new zest for things and help relieve some obstacles.

When conversing with people, try to keep aware of their feelings as well as you are having your own opinions.

Keywords. Inspiration and communication.

Your home environment and friends and family are highlighted at this time, and it does feel very much like the obstacles can be a bit more difficult than usual, try and find ways to stay in touch with your friends and family. In regards to things for your home environment, as with most things follow your intuition. Also try to be aware of the needs of others at this time.

Keywords communication and intuition.

Virgo Aug 23 - Sept 22

If things seem to be getting to you of late, remember you have a character that is strong and resilient in many circumstances. You are very good at overcoming adversity. So take a step back, and give yourself some you time, and begin to look after yourself more.

Keywords. Overcoming difficulties and you time

Libra Sept 23 - Oct 22

We are all in challenging times at the moment, but some things seem to be weighing heavily. Remember nothing stays the same, and things will soon change, so make the most of being able to put your attention on sorting things through.

Keywords. Clearing and renewing.

Sagittarius Nov 22 - Dec 21 You may have felt very stuck, both physically and emotionally. Try and go with the flow and be aware that nothing stays the same, and things will soon begin to move. There may be a few things that will change for you, this may have been on your mind for a while, and the time this year may be the right time to bring changes to fruition.

Keywords. Obstacles, Patience and changes.

Capricorn Dec 22 - Jan 19

Have you been putting off sorting some things out? If so now could be a good time to start to clear stuff this will help things to start shifting in more ways than one.You may find also by doing some sorting and clearing, that it clears your mind too. keywords: Listen and sensitivity 43

Charity Finds Themselves Part of the Regions Recruitment Challenge Fighting both food waste and hunger, Fare Share South West provides food to frontline charities who support those facing hunger in the region.

In 2021, they distributed food for 4,860,844 meals to those desperate for food. This is a huge leap from the 1 million meals they achieved in 2019. Incredibly, FareShare South West saved their charity members an estimated £5 million in food costs.

It is vital we expand our team - without great new people on board it will become harder to grow our work getting food to those in need.’

Despite these recruitment concerns, the charity is still looking forward to the new year, and what fresh opportunities and challenges it can provide for the entire team. Drawing on the positives, FareShare South West reflects on their current staff and loyalty to the organisation. One warehouse staff member explained his reasons for working with the organisation.

But now FareShare South West has exciting news of its own: expansion. Warehouses are Sophie Pike is the Central Bristol Warehouse the beating heart of the operation, and to sup- Manager, port more frontline charities, another Bristol warehouse has been opened in South Bristol. ‘Working in the FareShare South West warehouse is unlike any other job I have had.

The new Bristol warehouse provides an It feels amazing to see the difference we're exciting opportunity for the future and allows making each day- I know that every pallet that bigger objectives for the organisation. This comes into our warehouse is life changing. expansion means more staff are required, and Our team and volunteers are the soul of our the charity finds themselves to be part of the charity, always innovating and pushing to do well-reported national recruitment struggle. more- and we have fun while doing it!’

Lucy Bearn, Director of Operations, said ‘We are so lucky to have a wonderful team that works together to fight food waste and hunger. A new warehouse means a massive 20% increase in our operation, and therefore new staff are urgently needed to keep things running smoothly.

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FareShare South West believes that if they get the volunteers and workers in the Bristol warehouse they need, they can achieve growth well beyond the 4,860,844 meals of 2021.

To check out their website and view where other warehouses are located, you can visit the FareShare South West Website: Click here

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Hoteliers’ hopes for return to ‘Plan A’ Hoteliers in Bristol are hoping that the Government’s decision to end the ‘Plan B’ Covid-19 restrictions will lead to a much-needed boost to their businesses.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced last week that England’s Plan B measures are to end this Thursday (Jan 27), with mandatory face coverings in public places and Covid passports both dropped.

Hoteliers particularly welcomed the end to the Plan B advice to work from home where possible.

Raphael Herzog, Chair of the Bristol Hoteliers Association (BHA), said: “We hope companies and large organisations will welcome this news and will now look to bring their staff together for larger conferences at our hotels.

“These events provide an important source of income to venues like hotels, which have made significant investments in making their conference facilities as Covid-safe as possible.”

Many BHA members suffered a difficult end to 2021 with many reporting business was at least 30 percent lower in December than they had hoped for.

With no furlough scheme to fall back on and costs increasing, the BHA say more Government support is vital if businesses are to survive.

Mr Herzog said: “At the end of last year, the Government announced grants of up to £6,000 for hospitality businesses. But that would only cover us for what we lose in one day with a conference booking, as an example.

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“We hope that the end of Plan B and return to Plan A will give companies more confidence to organise conferences again and we very much look forward to welcoming them back to our hotels.

“These events are an important source of income for us.

“While some people have adjusted to working from home, others thrive on human interaction.

“Even if companies still choose to continue to allow working from home for the foreseeable future, or adopt a hybrid working model, we hope that they will still consider now bringing their teams together in a safe environment like a hotel.

“It will be good for their wellbeing and mental health to spend time in the physical presence of their colleagues rather than just seeing their faces on computer screens.”

Future months still look extremely challenging for the hospitality industry, with the current reduced rate of VAT due to end on 31 March, well-publicised significant increases in energy prices on the horizon, and other factors, such as some food suppliers increasing their prices by up to 20 percent.

Mr Herzog added: “It’s very hard to operate a business in the current climate, with more money going out than coming in. We knew we were facing a very difficult first quarter but if companies now start coming back to us for their conferences – which I would urge them to do – it would make a significant difference to us.”

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Take a break and try to solve theses puzzles Here are this weeks puzzles designed to test your mental skills during your lunch break or after tea.

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

The answers will be published on our website every Thursday afternoon.

EASY

HARD

Head to www.directlocalbristol. co.uk/competitions to download this weks puzzle page Good luck!

MEDIUM

EXTREME

Strange Strikebreaker Visual Voter Ally Criticism Cutting Direction Funeral Ignite Mosque Psychology Racism Sale Seize Stick

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KATHRYN JOINS EMPICA West Country PR agency Empica has strengthened its team with the appointment of Kathryn Chatfield as PR assistant.

Kathryn, 23, is a Cardiff University psychology graduate, who also studied International Public Relations and Global Communications Management for her Masters and is a former pupil of King Edward’s School in Bath.

She joins the Bristol-based agency from Rowanvale Books in Cardiff where she created digital and social media marketing strategies and roadmaps for independent authors.

Empica has clients across many sectors and there is never a dull moment.

“When I started doing my PR degree, I resolved in my mind that I would like to work in Bristol and scoped out the major public relations agencies in the city. After seeing impressive media coverage facilitated by Empica I knew I wanted to be part of that team.”

In her spare time Kathryn, a former member of Cardiff University Ice Skating Club, enjoys figure skating and is looking forward to visiting the new Planet Ice rink at Cribbs Causeway.

Empica managing director Martin Powell said: “We have a very experienced group of PR managers and Kathryn is supporting across the board and bringing fresh ideas into the She is supporting Empica’s experienced team mix.” of PR managers as they implement PR campaigns for a wide range of businesses.

Said Kathryn: “I’m really excited to be working for one of the South West’s largest and best-known PR and communications agencies.

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WHERE SPEED CAMERAS WILL BE THIS WEEK With reports of mobile speed cameras increasing, never get caught speeding again with a full list of sites to expect a mobile speed camera at anytime.

SOUTH GLOUCESTERSHIRE

Click any of the areas on the map to go staight to the police speed camera website page.

NORTH SOMERSET

BRISTOL

BATH & NORTH EAST SOMERSET

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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 www.fshc.co.uk

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