Bristol Weekly Magazine 29th Sept - 6th Oct 2022

Editor Michael Davies

Journalist

Lisa Davies

Contributing Writers

Andrea Sexton

Martin Powell Daren Bane

Kayleigh Penny Andrew Varney

Jos Clark Corinna Ingram Kathryn Chatfield Angie Nicholls

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FULL LINEUP OF LOCAL TRADERS

FOR THIS SATURDAY!

On Saturday 1st October, over 50 food and drink stalls will showcase the best of local food and drink in a free to attend street food festival named eat:Bedminster, organised by the eat:Bedminster team and supported by the Bedminster Business Improvement District (BID).

Visitors from the local community and beyond will not only be able to browse through the locally sourced food and drink from the Westcountry, but also chat to the faces behind each individual business.

Taking place along Bedminster’s East Street, the foodie festival will perfectly complement the already impressive array of traders and retailers on the eclectic high street, where they can experience top-quality eats from vegan junk food to the classic English breakfast.

Bristol-based businesses which will be taking to their stalls on East Street during the festival include local bakeries and pastry specialists such as Cream berry Artisan, Diggity Doughnuts and Dark Matters

Or for those with more savoury tastes, Sri-lankan street-food caterer Ceylon and Beyond, sustainable seafood specialist King Fin and vegan food pop-up Soy Ahoy will be attending the festival, all of which are Bristol-based.

Gingerbeard Preserves will also be showcasing their farmer’s market classics, from chutneys to sauces, jams and marmalades, while Bristol brewed beverages will be on offer from The Incredible Brewing Co.

In addition to the fantastic Bristol businesses taking to their stalls at eat:Bedminster Festival, a range of businesses and suppliers from across the Westcountry will also be coming to East Street. These include farmers market favourites such as cheese from Bath Soft Cheese Co, which makes the perfect pairing with the continental meats on offer from Somerset Charcuterie.

Visitors can also get fresh with local vegetable produce from Riverford Organic Farmers and Veg Life, or indulge in street-food savoury classics from Big Munch Mac & Cheese and The Bratman and sweet treats from Exeter-based Churros El Quijote.

A variety of local breweries from across the Westcountry will also be showing off their best ciders, ales and beers at eat:Bedminster, with the likes of Secret Orchard’s cider from Taunton, Harry’s Cider from Langport, Somerset and even Pier and Lighthouse Gin by The Clevedon Distillery showing off just how great the Westcountry is for local brews.

Eat:Bedminster will also cater for those with allergies and dietary needs, inviting a range of businesses from across the Westcountry which can confidently cater for them. A range of stalls at eat:Bedmin ster will have food and drinks on offer suitable for vegans, vegetarians, those with gluten-free allergies and those following a keto diet, including Gluten Free Picnic and Kinetic Kitchen Ltd, who remove both the gluten and the guilt from diving into their sweet treats!

Beyond the wide variety of food and drink options available at eat:Bedminster, there will also be a range of products on offer which keep things natural, including botanical skin and haircare by Boo Cottage Botanicals, and family-grown herb plants by Kitchen Garden Plant Centre, so you can grow your own produce from the comfort of your own home.

Complementing the wide range of locally sourced food and drink on offer, live music and strolling entertainment will provide a lively backdrop to visitors browsing the East Street stalls, whilst also entertaining visitors of all ages.

Spotlighting leading local hospitality business and suppliers, the festival will see the road closure of East Street during the festival, from 10am till 4pm, to allow a variety of stalls to take over the space. eat:Bedminster will also be fully accessible for all to attend. The East Street market layout will ensure that buggies, pushchairs and wheelchair users can easily move through the outdoor space. The whole family is welcome to come along too, as the festival is not only dog-friendly, but free to attend.

Taking place on bustling East Street in Bedminster, visitors can also get a taste for Bedminster’s local food and drinks traders in the area. For vegan treats, visitors can take a trip to Vx Bristol along East Street, or drop into Sea Pearl for a weekend classic - fish and chips. East Street is also home to a number of fantastic local cafes, so visitors can take a break from the festival with a cup of coffee and a cake in Eddie’s Coffee Lounge, The Toast Room or Hippie Flower Cafe.

Bev Milner Simonds, Director and Founder of eat:Festivals said: "The partnership with Bedminster BID has given us the opportunity to create a new event for the area - showcasing the bricks and mortar businesses that are here all year round and adding some tasty complimentary producers, makers and entertainment. Bedminster is unique – offering us fresh opportunities for making local connections, discovering new producers and creating new habits.”

Simon Dicken, Chair of Bedminster BID said: “eat:Bedminster is a great opportunity in Autumn to head out and support local traders and explore all the new businesses that have opened in the area over summer. East Street is jam-packed with inspirational entrepreneurs and this event will see the street come alive with independent traders with foods from every corner of the world.”

PORTISHEAD TWINNING VISIT TO SCHWEICH 2022

On the Sunday evening a gala celebration event was held to commemorate our 30 years of Twinning. Over 100 people attend ed the dinner where photographs and stories of our numerous events over the years were shared whilst local singers and musicians entertained us throughout the evening. Commemorative gifts and speeches were exchanged, including a wonderfully engraved glass bowl which will be placed on display in the Portishead Twinning Association cabinet in the heritage centre in the Folk Hall.

The Portishead Twinning Association visit to Schweich this year marked the 30th anniversary of our initial twinning with the German town. Nine members arrived in Schweich on the evening of 7th July ready for organised trips to the medieval town of Bernkastel-Kues and the Roman city of Trier. In Berkastel we visited the new museum of classic cars and technology at Zylinderhaus. Our visit to Trier included a guided tour of the late antique burial ground in St Maximim. Each host also organised individual days and trips to entertain their guests.

To celebrate the 30th anniversary members of both associations gathered outside the Town Hall in front of the chestnut tree which was planted on the first visit to Schweich. Daisy Bickley ( Portishead) and Dr Harald Bartos ( Schweich) planted that first tree and both were present again 30 years later to celebrate the occasion.

Remarkably for 2022 we enjoyed a travel trouble free trip both ways. We look forward to welcoming the Burgomeister, town officials and our German friends to Portishead during 2023. If you are interested in hosting new friends from Schweich or simply want to find out more about Portishead Twinning Association please contact Steve Pratt at: stevepratt1@googlemail.com

BATH ARTIST NATALIE BEDFORD ANNOUNCES HER NEW EXHIBITION

From the 5th of October through to the 16th, Natalie Bedford will be exhibiting a new collection of art at 44AD, Bath.

This new exhibition by Natalie is a celebration of her love for water and swimming - for sea, quarries, rivers and pools. As an artist well known for her use of different media, Natalie does not like to limit herself artistically. This exhibition will showcase work with print, collage, painting, drawing and more. Not only will there be large paintings where viewers will feel immersed in the water but also smaller works and prints. Other artworks will be interactive with further pieces being slowly created throughout the life of the exhibit.

Smaller framed pieces with accessible price points to larger canvases means viewers can take a piece home for themselves.

Natalie explains her inspiration,

“I feel ‘in my element’ in the water. As soon as I get into the water, the environment changes. From air – one element – to water – another element –the world drastically morphs around me. A swimmer straddles the line between two worlds, cutting through a barrier only millimetres thick.”

“With In My Element, it’s like I want you to come swimming with me. Shades of blue. Water; seaweed. Greens. Small fish. Large swimming pools. Endless oceans. Water is all around us, and with ‘In My Element’ the viewer finds themselves engaged with their surroundings and experiencing an environment – moving through water.”

Stories, quotes, thoughts, and ideas will be collected from participating viewers and visitors can watch Natalie working during the exhibition. There will also be a free children’s workshop for all kids to join, where they can flex their own creative muscles, engaging the world of art and water all at once and together.

“My aim is to make this an inviting space, where the visitors feel welcome. To encourage those who feel they ‘wouldn't normally go to an exhibition’ to try it and discover something new, fresh and even playful.”

For more details about ‘In My Element’ and to sign up for the kids workshops, visit: https://www.bynatalie.co.uk/ in-my-element

Sept 30 Oct 1

Oktoberfest

Description: Our homage to the famous Munich annual party, with 5 of the recognised authentic beers pouring by the stein. Accompanied by some Oompah music, as well as other acts! The biggest party weekend of the year!

Venue: The Siren’s Calling The Marina, Portishead, BS20

PINK Tribute

Description: Vicky Jackson’s Tribute to Pink has been a run-away success and has consistently been her most booked act since 2008. A must see..

Venue: The Fleece 12 Saint Thomas Street ,Bristol, BS1 6JJ

BristolFashion@45

Description: Award winning a cappella and barbershop singers Bristol Fashion are celebrating their 45th birthday in style AND they are joined by International quartet FORTUITY who captivate their audiences with their rich tones and wicked sense of humour. It is going to be awesome! https://www.ticketsource. co.uk/bristol-fashion-chorus

Venue: Mercure bristol Broad Street BS1 2EL Bristol

Estate of the Arts Fair

Description: Our Autumn edition is here! Explore the rabbit warren of artists studios and makers market stalls all around the Bed minster

Venue: Estate of the Arts, South Liberty Lane, Bristol, BS3 2SG

Wedding Fair

Description: This incredi ble Bristol-based venue is hosting us for a sensational wedding fair bringing you all the best essential wed ding suppliers.

Venue: Mercure bristol Broad Street BS1 2EL Bristol

Big Ride for Safer Cycling

Description: Come out and demonstrate your love for cycling, and call on the council to show it some love in return. Does your bike need a bit of love? No worries, our “Dr Bike” will be there from 11am at Brunswick Square to sort out your mechanical niggles for free!

https://linktr.ee/bristollovescycling

Venue: Brunswick Square St Paul’s Bristol

Oct 2

Your Space Yoga Class

Description: Start your week well with a hatha yoga class. All levels are welcome as we work through sequences and posture holding. As we build up to stronger holds, there are plenty of guided options given to suit you where you are on the day. £9.00 full price £7.50 concessions

Venue: The Flamingo Centre

175 Southmead Road, Westbury on Trym, Bristol

Circuit Breakers

Description:

Venue: The Hen & Chicken, 210 North Street Bristol BS3 1JF

Baby & Adult 3D Castings

Description: Int Hobbycraft Bristol Cribbs Causeway, Centaurus Road, Cribbs Causeway, Bristol, BS34 5TS. Monday 3rd October 10.30am - 3pm. Everything ready for Christmas. Bring your baby, child or partner along and make a memory for life. Hands, feet or holding hands to gether all personally made for you. Personalised silver jewellery also available. No booking required.

Venue: Hobbycraft, Cribbs Causeway BS34 5TS Bristol

Woodland Babies

Description: This is an informal group with op portunities for babies and parents/carers to meet other families. It will be a chance for parents/carers to have the space to stop and relax, have a cuppa and a chat and enjoy being in a safe natural environment with your baby. We will provide mats for babies to sit and lie on and trea sure baskets to play with (you may choose to bring an additional blanket to lie on). Refreshments will be provided for grown ups but feel free to bring your own. There is no specific support or planned activities, this is an informal, social opportunity to meet other new parents.

Venue: Play Wild CIC Wood Lane Quarry BS23 2TR Weston - Super- Mare

FITR - Rebecca Nash

Description: Opening our Autumn/Winter season for 2022 we are super excited to present two brilliant projects from Wales and the SW. Featuring some very personal voices on the scene we firstly have the wonderful Rebecca Nash and Sara Coleman duo- ‘ribbons’: Tickets : https://www.headfirstbris tol.co.uk/#date=2022-1004&event_id=77801

Venue: The Bristol Fringe 32 Princess Victoria Street, Bristo

Kevin Figes ‘ The Common’ Description: KEVIN FIGES ‘The Common & Other Short Stories’ Album Launch is at The BRISTOL MUSIC CLUB, 76 St Paul’s Road, Clifton. Bristol BS8 1LP on Wednesday 5th October at 7PM. Tickets £16. Available from https://fringejazz.com/ get-tickets.html (Plus Students, Musicians, Unemployed concession rate tickets at £10 will be available on the door).

Venue: Bristol Music Club 76 St Paul’s Road Bristol

Oct 6

Portishead Camera Club

Description: Meetings are held at Redcliffe Bay Hall, Newhaven Road, Portishead, starting at 7.30pm every Thursday. Visitors, £3 including refreshments. Expert speakers, regular competitions and outings provide great learning opportunities for those wanting to improve their photography..

Venue: Redcliffe Bay Hall Newhaven Rd, Portishead, BS20 8LH

B BLOCK TO CELEBRATE 5TH BIRTHDAY WITH PARTIES, PIZZA AND PROSECCO

To celebrate its 5th birthday anniversa ry in style, the Italian-inspired pizzeria and bistro, B Block, is throwing two parties and offering a discounted prosecco and pizza deal on Friday 7th and Saturday 8th October.

The £5 for a glass of prosecco and £5 for a whole pizza deal celebrates the restaurant's 5th year of business and will run alongside two events across its birthday weekend - a Viva Italia evening on Friday 7th October and a free-to-attend family fun day on Saturday 8th October.

B-BLOCK 5TH VIVA ITALIA PARTY - FRIDAY 7TH OCTOBER (5 PM - 8 PM)

Featuring traditional Italian recipes alongside its immensely popular wood-fired pizzas, B Block will be hosting an Italian-style party on Friday evening from 5 pm onwards. Diners can travel to Italy without leaving Keynsham, or breaking the bank, with a glass of prosecco for £5 and a wood-fired Margherita pizza for £5. The Bristol Accordionist will be serenading diners from 5:30-8 pm, with a selection of famous and well-loved Italian classics perfect for the occasion; from O Sole Mio, La Mattinata, to everyone's

B-BLOCK 5TH FAMILY FUN DAY - SATURDAY 8TH OCTOBER (10:30 AM - 5 PM)

On Saturday, B-Block will be inviting families to celebrate by hosting a free family-fun birthday bash with biscuit decorating from B Block’s expert chefs - headed up by Food Development Manager, Adrian Kirikmaa. Party-goers should also expect face painters and circus workshops throughout the day to keep the fun going until 5 pm.

Neighbouring restaurant, Somer Dining, will be transformed for families for the day with a children’s party to keep the kids (and big kids!) happy until dinner time. B Block will also be showing the Disney movie, Luca, throughout the day in The Chocolate Quarter's luxury Charlton Cinema. Set in Italy, Luca tells the story of a young sea monster boy with the ability to assume human form while on land.

Popular with residents and visitors alike, B Block transforms from a coffee spot serving breakfast and stone-fired pizzas by day to an intimate Italian restaurant by night. Over five years, it has earned a reputation for its excellent standard of food, winning several awards.

B Block uses the freshest ingredients that are sustainably sourced from local suppliers. All of its pizzas are a blend of Italian ingredients with British expertise. The team’s fruit and vegetables arrive from the nearby Bristol Fruit and Veg Market, and their meat from WJ Harrisa family butcher in Barton Hill in the east of the city. B Block’s organic flour comes from Shipton Mill in Tetbury, Gloucestershire. Their delicious cheese and cured meats come from Nanona in Clevedon, which offers a direct supply line to some of the best producers in Italy.

B Block is located in the Chocolate Quarter, a £60 million redevelopment of Keynsham’s former chocolate factory site by St Monica Trust. B Block is located within an eight-minute walk of Keynsham High Street. There is a bus stop located outside of B Block and a train station within a five-minute walk of The Chocolate Quarter.

The name and style of the restaurant highlight the building’s heritage. Housed within one of the original factory buildings, the 60-cover restaurant features bespoke furniture, salvaged light fittings, ironwork and reclaimed decorative items to create a stripped-back industrial feel.

Open Monday-Thursday 8 am-4 pm, Friday 8 am-8 pm, Saturday 9 am-8 pm and Sunday 9 am-11:30 am, guests can book via social media or by phoning the restaurant on 0117 363 7119.

ALSO SHOWING IN CINEMAS

TICKET TO PARADISE

MRS. HARRIS GOES TO PARIS

THE FENCE

The story kicks off on Hartcliffe council estate in Bristol during the early 1980’s. It follows Steven Knight, a working-class boy who has his motorbike stolen the day he buys it. Teaming up with his scoundrel friends he desperately tries to track it down before it’s gone for good.

In cinemas 1st October

ELVIS

DON’T WORRY DARLING

Events at Nailsea Library- October 2022

Storytime

Every Thursday

9:45 10 15am

(term time only)

Booking required

Rhymetime

Every Friday

9.45 10.15am 11 11.30am

(term time only)

Booking required

Council Enquiries Drop in session

Wednesday 10am 2pm

Councillor Surgery

First 4 Saturdays of every month

A customer services advisor will be here to help with council enquiries

Lego Club

Tuesday 3.45 4.45pm

Ask at the counter for more information.

Free Legal Advice

First Thursday of each month, 11am noon

Drop in session with Richard Green from Wards Solicitors

Family History Advice

Friday 10am noon

Would you like help with your family history research? Ask at the counter for more details. Basic computer skills are essential. Please book in advance.

Computer Buddies

Tuesday 1.30 4pm

Friday 2 4pm

Would you like help to learn how to use a computer, tablet or phone? Ask at the counter for details. Please book in advance.

Reading group

Second Tuesday of each month, 10am Ask at the counter for details

Family Board Games

Every Saturday, 10am noon

There will be lots of easy board games for children and parents to play. (term time only)

www.bristolweeklymagazine.co.uk

PUMPKIN & DARK CHOCOLATE CHEESECAKE

Ingredients

80g Unsalted butter, melted, plus extra for greasing

500g Pumpkin, peeledand cut into 1cm chunks (prepared weight)

2 x 200g packs chocolate chip cookies, broken into chunks

3 tsp ground cinnamon

750g Soft cheese

200g Caster sugar

6 large Range eggs, lightly beaten

40g 70% cocoa dark chocolate, roughly chopped

Method

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

6. Grease, then line the sides and base of a 23cm springform tin

Put the pumpkin on a lined baking tray, sprinkle with water and cover tightly with foil. Bake in the oven for 45-50 mins, until very soft.

Drain off any liquid, then whizz with a hand blender until smooth. Leave to cool completely. Reduce the oven temperature to 170°C/fan 150°C/gas 3

Meanwhile, whizz the cookies and 1 tsp of the cinnamon into fine crumbs

Mix in the melted butter, tip into the lined tin and press into an even layer with the back of a spoon. Chill in the fridge

Once the pumpkin purée has cooled, weigh out 400g, draining off any water that has risen to the top, then combine with the soft cheese, sugar, egg and remaining cinnamon. Reserve 100g of the mixture, then pour the rest over the chilled cheesecake base and level off

Melt the chocolate in a heatproof bowl set over a pan of gently simmering water, then mix with the remaining 100g pumpkin batter. Spoon into a piping bag fitted with a 2mm circular nozzle

Starting in the middle, pipe concentric circles on top of the cheesecake, spaced 1-2cm apart. Next, working from the middle to the outside edge, use a cocktail stick to bleed the lines together every 2-3cm to create a cobweb pattern

Bake the cheesecake for 1 hour 30 mins — it should have a gentle wobble in the centre. Turn the oven off but leave the cheesecake inside, with the door ajar, to cool fully, then chill overnight before serving

CITRUS & THYME VODKA SODA

If you don’t have a cocktail shaker, use a jam jar with a lid for this citrus and thyme vodka soda

What you need

• 2 tbsp clear honey

• Juice of ½ lemon

• Juice of ½ lime

• 75ml Irresistible French grain vodka

• 1 large thyme sprig

• Ice cubes

• 150ml soda water

• Thyme sprigs and lemon and lime slices, to garnish

How to make

• Mix the honey and 2 tbsp boiling water until fully dissolved, then allow to cool

• Squeeze the lemon and lime juice into a cocktail shaker

• Add the honey mixture, vodka, thyme sprig and ice cubes, then shake vig orously Strain into two glasses before topping up with the soda water.

• Garnish with thyme sprigs and lemon and lime slices

• Please drink responsibly

SPINACH SMOOTHIE

Need to use up leftover spinach? Blitz it into this refreshing green smoothie for breakfast or a post-workout snack

What you need

• 100g baby spinach

• 1 banana

• 200ml unsweetened almond drink

• A couple of pinches of ground cinna mon

• A large handful of ice

• 1 tbsp chopped almonds

How to make

• In a blender, blitz the spinach with the banana, almond drink, a pinch of ground cinnamon and a large handful of ice

• Serve sprinkled with the chopped almonds and a pinch more cinnamon

INTERNATIONAL COFFEE DAY

International Coffee Day occurs on October 1 annually. Travelling from tropical Africa to the breakfast mugs of homes globally every day, coffee beans have been scattered across the world for more than 600 years, and their preparation for consuming is a great example of metamorphosis. Humanity has been preparing coffee in many forms: drinks, candies, medicine, and some ancient civilizations even used it as currency! No matter how you take it, coffee can energise you, warm you up, refresh you, keep you awake, and even bring you closer to your loved ones.

DID YOU KNOW!

According to historical records, Coffee is originally from Ethiopia, and its discovery in Africa comes with an interesting story. Around the 700s AD, a herd of goats started acting strangely, almost as if they were dancing. Their owner, Kaldi, discovered that they were eating a sort of red bean and concluded that was the cause of their behavior. Kaldi decided to share his findings with a monk who required something that could help him to stay awake all night as he prayed; but another story claims that the monk refused and threw the beans into the fire and the pleasing aroma that came from it was just wonderful.

PART 4 IN OUR SERIES

ON “COMPLIANCE MADE SIMPLE.”

As property investors and letting agents, we are regularly having conversations with people about compliance. What often comes across is that people find it changeable and confusing. It is changeable, this is true, but it needn’t be confusing. With this in mind, we have put together a series on some of the most common compliance issues, in an attempt to explain them, in a way which is succinct and non-confusing. The fourth in this series is all about MEES (Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards)

EPC (Energy Performance Certificate) and MEES (Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards)

THE REGULATIONS:

The Energy Performance of Buildings (Certificates and Inspections) (England and Wales) Regulations came into force on 1st October 2008. They lay out the guidelines for energy efficiency regulations on all rental properties. These regulations have undergone several changes since 2008, the latest being on the 1st April2020.

Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards or MEES (The Energy Efficiency [Private Rented Property] [England and Wales] Regulations 2015) state that from 1st April 2020, all landlords of privately rented domestic and non-domestic properties, in England and Wales, must ensure that their properties have at least an Energy Performance Certificate rating of E.

MEES does have exceptions (e.g. listed buildings) but they must be officially sanctioned by the council.

REQUIREMENTS & DUTIES:

All Landlords letting a property need to provide a valid EPC certificate to any prospective tenant. The EPC must be accessible to prospective tenants from the point the property starts to be marketed.

There is no need to obtain a new certifi cate for each tenancy and once obtained an EPC remains valid for up to 10 years, regardless of the number of tenancies in that period.

PENALTIES:

The penalty for renting out a property for a period of fewer than 3 months in breach of the MEES regulations will be equivalent to 10% of the property’s rateable value, subject to a minimum of £5,000 and a maximum of £50,000.

After 3 months, the penalty rises to 20% of the rateable value, with a minimum of £10,000 and a maximum of £150,000.

NB: There is a government proposal to change the minimum EPC rating, for all private tenancies from 2025 to a C. It is proposed that all newly rented properties will require an EPC rating to be a minimum of a C from 2025 and all existing tenancies will have until 2028 to comply.

The aim of the regulation is to make homes more energy efficient and to reduce carbon emissions as part of the Government’s target to net zero by 2050.

SOLAR PANELS

ADD VALUE TO WEST COUNTRY HOMES

With energy prices dominating the news, homes that have installed solar panels to provide themselves with some energy self-sufficiency are fetching a premium, says Southwest-based estate agent and valuer Andrew Simmonds.

Having the ability to generate some of your own power from the sun’s rays and even sell some back to the grid is likely to enhance the value of your house by up to 5%, he says.

Mr Simmonds, director two leading estate agents in South Gloucestershire says the energy crisis following Rus sia’s invasion of Ukraine has completed changed the calculations regarding solar energy.

He said: “Prices have risen and even with Government support we are set to see higher prices for consumers for some time. It means the payback time for installing solar panels is shorter than ever and amounts people receive for selling any surplus likely to rise.

“Depending on the size, age and efficiency of the system installed a home with solar panels is likely to sell for around 5% more than an identical home without panels next door. That is a differ ence of £25,000 on a £500,000 house.

“Before the energy crisis, experts quoted 3.5% premium for a house with solar panels as they were regarded as a nice thing to have for those caring for the environment. Now they are seen as vital to the economics of a household.

“Solar panels increase the kerb appeal of a home and can reduce its energy efficiency rating. On larger properties buy ers can sometimes worry about the cost of heating and having its own source of energy allays those fears.”

Mr Simmonds said that the most straight-forward valuations can be made when the panels are owned outright by the householder. Leased panels, and early installations where the solar provider installed panels for free but leases the roof are more difficult as they complicate the sales process.

“Householders wanting to sell with solar panels are advised to have data availa ble for the estate agent to show people how much they generate,” said Mr Sim monds “we are starting to see instances where people want to take their panels with them and instal them in their next home, but we would advise the most economic thing to do is get the best price for your old home and instal new at your next home.”

HIGH-QUALITY APPRENTICESHIP OPPORTUNITIES

£147,000 in Apprenticeship Levy funding from South Gloucestershire Council and partnership with the non-profit Western Training Provider Network will deliver more high-quality apprenticeship opportunities and support local small and medium sized businesses (SMEs).

The support will help young people entering employment for the first time as well as older people who want to re-skill and will enable small businesses to fund the skills and training they need to expand their companies. Every apprenticeship created will be a new opportunity for a local resident to build their skills and progress.

Western Training Provider Network is a local network of Government-approved apprenticeship providers. They support the transfer process from full-time edu cation to working in an apprenticeship setting and deliver the apprenticeships alongside colleges and universities.

More SMEs will be able to engage in the skills system by forming partnerships with larger employers who contribute Levy funding, allowing them to hire more young people, whether they are pro gressing from school or college-based education, or older people looking to re-train.

This in turn will decrease unemployment and can strengthen local supply chains and relationships, creating mentoring relationships between larger employers and SME’s and increasing regional productivity.

SME’s having access to this funding will mean apprentices can get real work experience reducing the barriers many face, when entering employment. Employers will be able to access funding to support them to expand their work forces and train them.

Councillor Ben Burton, cabinet member with responsibility for apprenticeships at South Gloucestershire Council, said: “Apprentices are so important to us. We’ve increased the number of apprentices being taken on by the council, and we’ve seen the benefits they bring, introducing new ideas, innovation and enthusiasm to our work.

“We’re keen to help local businesses reap these same rewards and we’re supporting small and medium sized organisations in South Gloucestershire with the training costs of taking on an apprentice through our levy sharing arrangements.”

If you’d like to find out more about Levy Funding and about how it could help your business, please email apprenticeships@wtpn.org.uk

PUBLIC LIVING ROOMS PLANNED FOR NORTH SOMERSET

With the price of energy rising again this weekend, North Somerset Council and its partners in the North Somerset Together network are working together to develop a network of public living rooms across the area to help people keep warm this winter.

Public living rooms are safe, welcoming, and non-judgemental spaces for people to come together, stay warm, and maybe enjoy a hot drink and a biscuit. These venues will also have information to help people who might be keen to learn more about the support available to tackle the cost of living crisis

The sorts of venues that might be suitable for hosting public living rooms include community buildings, sports venues, places of worship, libraries and any organisation willing to make a space available for people to use.

Cllr Mike Bell, North Somerset Council’s deputy leader and chair of North Somerset’s cost of living working group said: “We are a council that cares about people and addressing the cost of living crisis is the top priority for every member of the council’s Executive. No-one should have to go cold this winter. We know already that some of our residents are worried they might have to choose between heating and eating, so to help we want to create a network of places across North Somerset where people can keep warm.

“Our goal is to create a directory of all the places available to our residents across the public, private, health and voluntary sectors and to ensure this information is clearly promoted so everyone who is feeling the cold knows where they can go to get warm, stay warm and enjoy a little company and some hot refreshments.”

To enable public living rooms to be set up or maintained, grants of up to £1,000 will be available to organisations in North Somerset. The grants are funded by North Somerset Council, supported by Alliance Homes, grant funding.

Applications will be accepted from North Somerset agencies and community-led organisations delivering services for people in North Somerset. More informa tion about the scheme and grant applica tion process is available on the council’s website at www.n-somerset.gov.uk/col.

The North Somerset Together Network will promote the directory of public living rooms as soon as they begin to be established with the hope that more venues will become available as news of the initiative spreads across North Somerset.

Cllr Bell added: “Our ambition is that all communities across North Somerset that need a public living room have at least one that their local residents can use to help stay warm and well.”

OUT AND ABOUT IN BRISLINGTON

WEST WITH JOS AND ANDREW

THE BOATYARD LATEST:

We are pleased to report that a new contractor has been found to complete the work on the Boatyard development at Totterdown Bridge, following the collapse of the previous contractors. The new team are now on site to manage the health and safety aspects and to do all the necessary surveys. This means that work is likely to be restarting in the next 8 or so weeks. We have asked Clarion Housing to prioritise the removal of the cranes and the reinstatement of the footpath, bus lane and cycle path. Clarion are currently in talks with the crane company to take one crane down, which will need a full assessment and probably a road closure to remove it.

ARNOS COURT PARK UPDATE:

We were delighted to join our fellow Friends of Arnos Court Park recently to plant a range of wildflowers on the upper slopes of the park near the cherry tree.

This should provide a bit of extra colour next year, improve biodiversity and help our pollinating insects. The heavy rain on Sunday should help to bed them in but if you are walking past, please feel free to give them some extra water. More good news: construction of the new path from the Arnos Vale Cemetery steps down the slope to the existing path through the park is due to commence in the next week or two. The path will help people get up and down the slope more easily, especially when it is muddy and wet and prevent more of the ground from being churned up.

LANGTON ROAD SAFETY IMPROVEMENTS BACK ON:

We recently told local residents that the Mayor had decided to pause the project to introduce road safety improvements by St Anne’s Infants School. However, we have now been informed that the project is back on again!

BUS USERS FORUM:

Thank you to everyone who came to the recent Bus Users’ meeting at St Peter’s Church on Allison Road. The hall was absolutely packed, which is hardly sur prising as it followed the announcement of devastating cuts to our local services, including the 36, 96 and 178. The takeaway message from the Metro Mayor, Dan Norris, is that driver shortage is the principal reason so many services are being cut. Low passenger numbers post pandemic and rising fuel costs are also factors. We asked the Mayor about supported bus services. In Brisling ton, we have the 513/514, operated by Stagecoach. Back in January, we had meetings with West of England transport officers and recommended improve ments to the route. This could help to mitigate the impact of the loss of the 36 and 96. However, we have heard nothing since then and the Mayor didn’t really answer the question. We have written to the Mayor to see if we can get a proper answer.

JUBILEE POOL LATEST:

The Friends of Jubilee Pool have become a registered charity and is due to take Jubilee Pool into community ownership this week. Many congratulations to everyone involved for getting to this stage. Unfortunately, rising energy prices has meant that the new operator has withdrawn due to the additional costs.

Luckily, the existing operator, Parkwood, has offered to remain in post on a rolling contract but there is a very sizeable, unforeseen deficit to keep the pool going in the midst of the energy crisis.

The Friends need to raise £20,000 to £30,000 by the end of December to cover the January to April costs. please check out the Save Jubilee Pool website to see how you might be able to help: https://savejubileepool.org

THE DONATION PAGE IS HERE:

https://localgiving.org/charity/friends-ofjubilee-pool-bristol/

We need to keep Jubilee Pool open for its users and the residents of South Bristol so that we can all continue to exercise, look after our mental health, socialise and have fun. Something that we all need at this time.

There will need to be another public consultation and then, hopefully, we can get the much needed improvements. When you consider we launched our petition for improvements back in 2018 and then succeeded in getting funding in early 2019, it’s fair to say the whole process has been disappointingly slow.

BRISLINGTON TALK CLUB:

Thank you to the organisers of the Brislington Talk Club for the invitation to attend one of the sessions at Arnos Manor Hotel recently. Talk Club is a male mental fitness community that provides positive safe spaces for men to open up and be listened to. Mental health is just like physical health, but for your brain. That's why Talk Club is like a gym ses sion, where men can become mentally stronger from talking and listening, and it all starts with one question, How are you, out of 10? As part of the community men can access talking and listening groups, sports clubs and therapy. If you are male, over 18 and want to build your mental fitness or are going through a tough time, join Brislington Talk Club every Tuesday, 7.30pm at Arnos Manor Hotel. Information can be found about Talk Club here: www.talkclub.org

BRISLINGTON CELEBRATION EVENT:

A Brislington Celebration Event has been organised for October 21st and 22nd at St Christopher’s Church on Hampstead Road. The focus is to celebrate and increase awareness of everything going on in Brislington. If you would like to be involved in whatever capacity, please contact the organise via the email below. Similarly, if you know anyone else who might be interested, feel free to pass on this information.

jennifer.cave-ayland@nhs.net

Hundreds of Brislington West residents have signed up to receive our monthly newsletter via email. You can register using this link: http://www.bristollibdems. org/efocus.

By Jos Clark, Liberal Democrat Councillor (Brislington West) Email: cllr.jos.clark@bristol.gov.uk Mobile: 07584 370429

& Andrew Varney, Liberal Democrat Councillor (Brislington West) Email: cllr.andrew.varney@bristol.gov.uk Mobile: 07584 183381

BALANCING THE BUDGET

The full impact of the unprecedented national cost of living and social care crises on the council’s finances are due to be shared in a report to be released on Tuesday 27 September.

The report, due to be considered by Cabinet on Tuesday 4 October, estimates that the council must seek to find an extra £31.1million in 2023/24 to set a balanced and legal budget.

Significant growth in inflationary pressures affecting the costs of goods, energy and services has combined with increasing demand on services, particularly in social care, means the council faces a difficult financial challenge in the coming years.

Marvin Rees, Mayor of Bristol, said: “During our administration we've prioritised solid fiscal management, delivering annual balanced and legal budgets that have protected frontline services despite national austerity, growing demand, increased costs, and a global pandemic.

We forecast back in 2018 that the shifting focus of national government priorities and the changing role of local government would mean the council would have to change to preserve essential services. The Corporate Strategy developed at that time set out the journey we would go on to meet the changing role of the council. Whilst we remain on the path laid out in our Corporate Strategy, the impact of forces beyond our control mean that we must accelerate that change to ensure we can continue to do the things we must, to keep being there for those who need us most.

“The core function of local government is to deliver the essential services that protect the health and wellbeing of its residents, invest in the infrastructure needed to promote sustainable growth, and secure investment in creating opportunities for prosperity. These are things we will keep doing. In some core services we will need to change the way we do things to focus our attention on those who need support most.

There are also some other things we won't be able to continue to do, and, in many cases, we will have further conver sations with our partners on how the city can, collectively, support those services, actions, and activities we can no longer sustain.

“I recognise the pressure this puts on already stretched sectors across our communities. I meet regularly with leaders in health, education, police, creative, business, religious, community and voluntary sectors and we openly share the challenges we face. Our challenge is a collective one, and one that can only be met with the kind of collaboration we've fostered across our city's leadership. It's in that spirit of collaboration that I will work with city partners to find ways to minimise the impact of this financial pressure on the people of Bristol.”

The report to Cabinet sets out the income and expenditure the council forecasts over the coming medium term (2023-2028). In addition to the council’s core revenue budget (called the General Fund), the report also provides forecasts for a number of other budgets which are set out separately. These include providing an update on the Dedicated Schools Grant, Housing Revenue Ac count and Capital Programme*.

Running in parallel with the financial forecasting underway, departments across the council are working with the Mayor and his Cabinet to identify areas where costs can be reduced, and savings made to meet the legal duty to deliver a balanced budget in the 2023/24 financial year.

Councillor Craig Cheney, Deputy Mayor with responsibility for Finance, Governance, and Performance, said: “Across the city we’re seeing the impact of the current national cost of living crisis and the ongoing challenge of recovering from a global pandemic. Households, businesses and charities are feeling the pressure of rising costs and unfortunate ly the council and city economy are not immune from these pressures.

The scale of the challenge we face is being replicated in local authorities across the country, with councils losing funding equivalent of 60p in the pound between 2010 and 2020 and the Local Government Association warning that at least £13billion is required to tackle the crisis in adult social care. In the absence of Westminster reversing more than a decade of austerity towards local government, we’re left with little option but to hone down our spending and in many cases bring forward the changes we expected to make in future years to make immediate savings.

“We’re not approaching this from a standing start and have been forecasting the need to reduce the amount the council delivers since 2018. We know where our legal duties lie and where we must prioritise our resources to sup port those in greatest need and deliver sustainable and inclusive growth. Now we’re clearer on the size of the challenge, our next task is to put forward the options for meeting it. We will soon publish our proposals for finding the savings and the income needed to balance the budget and encour age all in the city to engage with this challenge, so our final plan is fully informed.”

Draft proposals for meeting the budget challenge will be published shortly as part of a public consultation ahead of a budget being recommended by Cabinet in January 2023. The final decision on setting a budget for 2023/24 rests with Full Council who will meet in February 2023 to discuss and decide on the proposals put forward by Cabinet.

Bristol’s Cabinet will meet on Tuesday 4 October at 4pm to discuss this report and other key items of business. A full copy of the Medium Term Financial Plan report will be available on the council’s website along with the meeting agenda and associated papers.

Your Garden In October

Autumn is officially here! October, in all its glory, gives us a wonderful display of colours. The trees are beginning to lose their leaves in abundance as they become dormant for winter, telling us that the change of season is in full swing.

The days are much shorter and cooler and we can feel autumn chill in the air. Although trees are the stars of the month, October is time to think about how the garden will look when it wakes from hibernation.

There are plants to be cut back and left tidy for the winter, shrubs to be planted or moved, summer plants to be removed and replaced with winter hardy bedding, bulbs to be strategically placed in borders and the lawn to be fed and given its final mow October may bring with it the beginning of quiet times for the garden –but not for the gardener.

TIDY PERENNIALS

Perennials are not difficult plants to care for, but trimming them after flowering finishes in autumn helps to improve their appearance and give a boost to next year’s flowering. Using a knife, shears or secateurs, cut stems close to the ‘crown’ or dormant base of the plant.

Any crowded clumps of perennials can also be lifted, divided and replanted. Take the opportunity to remove weeds as you prune before applying a light mulch to protect from any hard frost.

PLANT TREES AND SHRUBS

October is the ideal month to plant trees and shrubs. Although the container grown plants can be planted at any time of the year they are easier to care for if planted in the autumn or winter. The ground is damp and still warm which gives the perfect conditions to allow roots to become established before winter sets in.

PLANT AUTUMN BEDDING

Any remaining summer bedding will be looking very tired by now and is best cleared and replaced for a fresher display. Autumn bedding such as pansy and primrose will give an instant lift to the garden and they look great planted between the shrubs in the border. My ositis, which produces masses of small flowers with the little white eyes and Sweet William, which provides a colourful carpet of flowers from spring through summer are both ideal for over wintering if planted now.

LOOKING GOOD THIS MONTH...

CONIFERS

WHY SHOULD YOU PLANT THEM?

Conifers are hardy evergreen trees and shrubs that suit any garden. They come in a huge range of shape and sizes and textures and the colour can be anything from yellow or light green through to dark green and blue. Easy to care for and long lasting, conifers are the ideal choice for any gardener looking for a low mainte nance but high impact plant.

HOW SHOULD YOU PLANT THEM?

Dwarf conifers are good for containers and larger shrubs and trees make good hedging or garden features. They are happy in any soil in the sun or shade. Newly planted conifers will need watering until established.. After flowering, sheer back dead flower stems to keep the plant looking full.

TAKE A BREAK AND TRY TO SOLVE THESES PUZZLES

Here are this week’s puzzles designed to test your mental skills.

Remember you can download our puzzels and print them off HERE.

Good luck!

WEEKLY GUESS THE WORD COMPETITION ANSWER

EASY MEDIUM

HARD EXTREME

ESCAPE THE MAZE

Can you find your way through this difficult maze?

m

The winner of last week’s guess the word competition was Daisy from Henbury who won £25 cash!

If you want to enter our competition each week to win cash all you need to do is subscribe to Bristol Weekly Magazine HERE and guess the word. Then email us your answer with your name using the link in the subscribers email. Deadline for entering your answer is midnight every Tuesday.

Good luck!

40 BITTERNESS

BRISTOL JOB SHOW IS BACK AND BIGGER THAN EVER!

Did you know that there are currently more job vacancies than there are unemployed people?

The region’s biggest job show is taking place at Cabot Circus on the 30th September and 1st October 2022, and aims to help thousands of people by showcasing new, exciting ventures through the power of CV clinics, workshops, seminars, introductions to local businesses and employers.

The cost of living is continuing to in crease and it’s a great time to look towards the future and make positive, life-changing steps when it comes to your career and personal development. With the region's best employers in attendance including: Probation Service, ARAG, Boux Avenue, CO-OP, Costa, Frankie & Benny’s, Bristol NHS Foundation Trust, South Western Ambulance Service, VIMA and loads more.

Mike Bickerdike, Founder of Bristol Job Show commented: “This year’s Bristol Job Show is bigger and more impactful than ever before! There has never been a better time to change career paths due to the ever-increasing cost of living and the amount of local job vacancies available to explore.

“Attendees will get the opportunity to introduce themselves first-hand to their potential new employer, so we strongly advise everyone to bring along copies of their CV, business cards and utilise the event to the best of their ability.

Over the years thousands of people have secured a new job at the Bristol Job Show. Will it be you this year!?

The Bristol Job Show is free to attend and is open from 11am to 5pm on both 30th September and 1st October 2022. Register by visiting www.bristoljobshow. org

“Research the companies you are interested in before attending, dress to impress and go and grab that next career opportunity with both hands!”

Hengrove Community Centre

Fortfield Road

BS14 9NX

Tuesday 9.30am

Sarah: 07879 443888

Bridgefarm Primary School East Dundry Road

BS14 0LL

Wednesday 5.30pm and 7pm

Sarah: 07879 443888

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Tax

Christ Church Hall

Petherton Road

Hengrove

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Saturday 9:30am

Keesa: 07399 597267

TSA ACCOUNTANTS BRISTOL LTD

Bristol China Bureau marks mid-autumn festival.

Businesses have an opportunity to find out more about the work of the Bristol and West of England China Bureau and celebrate the Chinese mid-autumn festival at a special event in the city next week.

The event takes place under the theme of “All Under One Moon” - a motto associated with the traditional annual festival - at YHA Bristol in Narrow Quay on Thursday, 6th October.

It is being hosted by the bureau and supported by the China National Tourist Office, Guizhou Province and the bureau’s partner organisation, Make It China.

“During the evening guests will be treated to a rich cultural experience, outlining the background to this prominent festival, which is similar to our own Harvest Festival and celebrates the fruits of summer and the onset of autumn,” says Dianne Francombe OBE, chief executive of Bristol and West of England China Bureau.

“We shall introduce and highlight China’s beautiful Guizhou Province, a landlocked province in the south of the country, and there will be a chance to enjoy tasty authentic Chinese cuisine.

“China is a huge and growing market and we are working to strengthen relationships and expand our connections there by providing a platform for businesses and individuals to develop understanding and connect with like-minded organisations.”

The runs from 6-9pm at YHA Bristol. Tickets can be booked at: https://www. eventbrite.com/e/mid-autumn-festi val-tickets-410394148947

JESSIE MAY CELEBRATE 17 YEARS OF LEADERSHIP

On Thursday 1st September, Bristol-based hospice at home charity

Jessie May held a special celebration day at Bristol Zoo. Joined by families, supporters, trustees and staff, it presented a fabulous opportunity for a first in-person meeting since COVID and a chance to give thanks to this unique charity.

The event marked the retirement of CEO Chris Roys after 17 years at the helm, and gave new CEO Daniel Cheesman the opportunity to set out the next 5 Year Strategy for the charity.

Jessie May provides specialist palliative care in the home for children who have terminal and life-shortening conditions. The charity has family at its heart, and that family spirit was ever present on the day.

New CEO Daniel Cheesman described the celebration event as being like a family coming together,

“Having just completed my first month, I’m really enjoying getting to know this amazing charity and I have been so impressed with the passion and commitment shown by the whole team. We have launched a very strong strategy, with big aims to support even more families, through innovative new projects as well as expanding the geographical reach of the charity - I am looking forward to working to fulfil this over the next few years.

I have been so appreciative of Chris’ guidance over these last few weeks, as he graciously hands the reins and responsibility of Jessie May over to myself. I hope that myself and the team can continue to do him proud, and take his achievements and steady platform from over the last 17 years”

Outgoing CEO Chris Roys was thankful for the opportunity the event gave, “To be able to have the opportunity to say goodbye in such a public way, to a group of individuals who I have collectively known for over 17 years, was a difficult but incredibly heart-warming moment. It was made particularly special with the attendance of some families and children that we have supported over the last 25 years, seeing them interact with their Jessie May nurses and the beaming smiles on their faces is exactly what makes this charity so special.

Knowing that Jessie May has been passed over to Daniel, who has such a sincere motivation and passion for seeing the new strategy through, allows me to leave with the confidence that Jessie May will continue to thrive and grow.”

The new 5-year strategy ‘No Place Like Home’ sets out the 2022 - 2027 aims for the charity and encompasses 6 key objectives. The overarching vision for Jessie May is that all children and young people with life-limiting and life-threat ening conditions are supported to have the very best quality of life possible, and to choose to live, and to die, in their own homes with their families. To read or download your copy visit wwwjessiemay. org.uk/news/our-publications

NO.1 BIGGEST MISTAKE BUSINESSES MAKE WHEN HEADING INTO A RECESSION

With the Bank of England raising interest rates as Britain’s worst bout of inflation for 40 years hit, world-renowned busi ness coach Brad Sugars is warning business owners against taking a natural reaction of battening down the hatches.

“The first thing business tend to do in a recession is stop their marketing activ ities to save money. If our businesses made it through the 2008 crash, we thought we were plain sailing until the pandemic hit and now global forces are threatening us once again. Now’s the time to dig deep, get the marketplace coming to you by learning what will really work if you’re committing your marketing spend,” said Brad.

Brad is a serial entrepreneur who has turned around hundreds of companies over the last 30 years, but he’s also teamed up with award-winning author of They Ask, You Answer Marcus Sheridan for a speaking tour of the UK in November. Marcus saved his swimming pool company, Rivers and Spas, from the brink of collapse during the economic recession of 2008 and ultimately became the most trafficked swimming pool website in the world.

The story of how he managed to attract enough of an audience to achieve this has been featured in multiple books, publications and case studies across the globe.

Touring from Bristol to Edinburgh across 7 locations, the evening event will help you spark insightful conversations with your marketing team, get you communicating with like-minded individuals and allow you to collaborate and inspire each other in an environment like no other.

“All too often, business owners don’t get back what they put in, in terms of time, effort and investment, because the strategies they’ve learnt are either outdated or not implementable in the real world. The insights we share on our tour explain how you can get your prospects raising their hand to come to you through engaging techniques, creating long-term relationships and value,” added Brad.

Starting from 2nd November in Bristol and ending on 10th November in Sheffield, the Raise Your Hand, Raise Your Profits tour has tickets available from £24. The team at ActionCOACH Bristol are giving away a free ticket with every complimentary coaching session booked between now and 31st October. To find out more or click here.

NHS COVID HERO WINS WORLD TITLE IN MARTIAL ARTS

An NHS physiotherapist who turned to martial arts to deal with the stress during the pandemic has gone on to win a world title in a combat sport.

Becky Sheppard, 25, graduated in 2020 and started her first job working on respiratory conditions in intensive care after Covid-19 broke out - witnessing first-hand the devastating impact of the disease.

And the Brentry Tang Soo Do Club member then upped her training in the Korean-based art as a physical and mental outlet.

Becky has gone on to compete in world championships in the USA – taking home two gold medals and a silverfor weapons, sparring and forms respectively.

Becky, who rotates around hospitals offering support for conditions varying from stroke or injury rehabilitation, said: “Working in the NHS during the pandemic was a particularly stressful time and it could take its toll emotionally.

“It is a very rewarding role and we often see people make recoveries over time. But we also saw young, healthy people become very poorly and some would not make it. It was hard. I found Tang Soo Do helped me to focus on the moment, release physical and mental stress and generally sleep better at night.”

PUSHING PHYSICAL AND MENTAL BOUNDARIES

Becky, from Warmley, started training in Tang Soo Do with her sister, Alice, at the age of six. Her parents, who later took up the sport themselves, found it helped to improve their ‘high-energy’ daughter’s concentration at school.

But she took a break as a teenager when her parents divorced and she started studying for her GCSEs. She returned to the martial art four years later, more focused and mature. Becky, Alice and their mum have all now gained their black belts.

The former Oldfield School pupil said: “I was more serious and focused when I went back. I’ve learned now that during times of stress it’s tempting to put things you enjoy aside - but perhaps that’s when you most need it most.”

Becky, who has reached the rank of E Dan, 2nd degree, qualified for the world championships during a UK competition in the spring. She won trophies but did not perform as well as she had hoped due to a ‘mental block’.

She said: “Sometimes life gets in the way and we all have our ups and downs. I remember I’d had a particularly difficult week at work and didn’t concentrate fully or perform at my best. But that’s life and it was a motivation to pick myself up, make more time for myself and make sure I would be better next time.”

She worked with her instructor, Master Kristian Reed, to improve her technique over several months before heading off to North Carolina with over 100 members from Team GB. She competed in the Female 2nd Dan Black Belt category and the team brought back the overall male and female Grand Champion trophies. Fellow club member Mitch Hopes, 31, won two gold medals for forms and sparring in the Male 1st Dan Black Belt category.

Becky, an assistant instructor at the club, said: “I enjoy competing as it gives me a goal to work towards and winning a world title has certainly been a highlight. Competing encourages you to push yourself physically and mentally, as well as providing an opportunity to travel and meet new people.

“But I also enjoy the art itself, which promotes respect, discipline and self-defence. The club is massively family orientated and a very supportive group, with everyone working to help each other improve.

“I’ve trained with great instructors who are passionate about the art and their enthusiasm is contagious. I first trained with Master Rob Wootton, who would do a 120-move pattern, with a forward roll, to keep me motivated. I looked up to him and wanted to be able to do the same when I grew up.

“Master Reed cares about his students and is keen to share his knowledge with others. He has been successful in competitions as well and he found the techniques which worked for me.”

COBRA KAI AND TANG SOO DO

Master Reed, 29, a 4th Dan Master and European champion in weapons, forms and sparring, said: “Becky worked hard and we are all really proud of her at the club. It’s a pleasure to instruct people who want to improve, not just for com petitions, but personal development as well.”

Tang Soo Do is one of the oldest martial arts systems and it promotes self-de fence, physical and spiritual health and all-round personal development. Martial arts film star Chuck Norris is a student of the art and he displayed his techniques in films such as Way of the Dragon with Bruce Lee. And it is the same style that Kreese’s captain teaches him in Vietnam in the Netflix Cobra Kai series, which is a sequel to the 1980s Karate Kid films. Grandmaster Pat E Johnson was the martial arts choreographer for the original films and holds a 9th degree black belt in the art of Tang Soo Do.

Johnson rose through the ranks to chief instructor at Norris’ school and captain of the Chuck Norris black belt competition team. Students of Tang Soo Do have credited it with developing focus, clarity, greater flexibility and strength.

Master Reed, who started training at the age of seven and teaching at the age of 18, said: “It’s great that popular culture is raising awareness of martial arts. It’s more than just kicking and punching - it’s about following a code of conduct, developing focus, confidence and resilience.

“I’ve seen how people have been strug gling during a difficult time in life and it’s helped get them unstuck. I believe it can and does change lives.”

HOROSCOPES

OCTOBER

Aquarius Jan 20 - Feb 18

Things that have felt held up, should begin to move more freely soon. This could be projects or new ideas, that have been on your mind for a while. Relationships are also highlighted at this time from family, friendships and romance Communication is a very valid key in this area, with listening, and how and what you say.

Keywords things releasing, relationships and communication

Taurus Apr 20 - May 20

Although you have not been in the best frame of mind recently, which is understandable with strange present circumstances, as well as looking after you, be aware of others needs and try to be more sensitive when necessary. Hope fully, you will now be feeling a little more optimistic and resuming some things that were on hold . This could be a time to look round and start to sort a few things out, I kind of Autumn Spring clean.

Keywords. You time and sensitive to others. restricted

Pisces Feb 19 - Mar 2

Any obstacles, and hold-ups should begin to diminish soon. It may help if you do some clear ing, maybe in your home, and also allow some time for yourself, to allow relaxation and new ideas to come through.Try not to overthink things, and give yourself the chance to find the balance that will keep you in great form.

Keywords. You time, clearing and balance.

Gemini May 21 - June 20

Communication is highlighted for you at this time. Be aware of others needs and sensitivities, as sometimes you can let words come out that are better held back. It may also pay to be a little more flexible in certain situations, there is a strength in being flexible and sensitive.If you find this hard to do, you it as something you can learn from.

Keywords. Communication, sensitivity and learning.

Aries Mar 21 - Apr 19

This may be a good time to look around your home and see what needs to be changed. If you have had ideas and have never got round to them, maybe now would be a good time to do so. You may also find other projects that you have put off are coming to mind, try not to take everything all in one go. Maybe sit quiet and go with your intuition as where to start first.

Keywords. Home, projects and intuition.

Cancer June 21 - July 22

This could be a good time to do an autumn cleaning, whether it be physically or emotionally. Try and be aware of your intuition as this is high lighted for you at this time, instead of ploughing on just because something is what you would like. Intuition is there as a very helpful thing as long as we actually listen to it.

Keywords. Autumn clearing And intuition

Leo July 23 - Aug 22

You may have felt reluctant to change things, and you may find now, that you are feeling restless, and it may now be time to look for new ideas and inspirations. Some of the ideas you have had recently maybe worth looking at to bring into fruition.

Keywords inspiration and opportunities.

Scorpio Oct 23 - Nov 21

Here seems to be a few opportunities to get together with some people in small gatherings. You may find this will give you informa tion, And ideas for either business or hobbies. This could be a good time for studying or research.

Keywords gathering information, Study..

Virgo Aug 23 - Sept 22

You may find you have a moment of illumination, with a great idea. Try not to let people put you down, and to be aware of your own inner strength, and your capabilities.Balance and looking after you, are important at this time.You may already be considering buying things for Christmas,

Keywords. Looking after yourself

Sagittarius Nov 22 - Dec 21

This seems to be a very good time to work with your intuition. Things that are bothering you at the moment, are likely to ease over the next few weeks, especially if you are working with your intuition.

Keywords intuition, relationships and House and Home

Libra Sept 23 - Oct 22

You may be feeling things are being held up, and there are obstacles stopping you from moving forward to achieve your goals.Try not to let things stress you out, take a deep breath and give yourself a few moments to bring back some calm and balance.This should help you to avoid missing opportunities or new ideas.

Keywords balance, calm, opportunities.

Capricorn Dec 22 - Jan 19

It may be an idea to step back and look at a situation, or just things in general, and see what needs to be changed.It may mean doing a clearing physically or emotionally, this will be good and allow new things, ideas to come into your life. Communication is highlighted at this time.

Keywords. Clearing, new things, and communication

Forecasted by Marie Hayward

Disclaimer

This zodiac is for entertainment purposes only please do not take the predictions seriously Marie take no responsibility for your actions

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