North Somerset Direct Local Magazine February 2023

This Month..

4. Nominations open

6. Bristol Rovers in cup!

8. Makle your money go further

13. The Fabelmans

16. Vegan coconut curry

20. Grey hair silver lining

22. Bristol Arena delayed

24. People puzzle

28. Home improvements

32. Communities asked to help

36. Horoscopes

38. Your garden

Disclaimer

The opinions expressed in Direct Local do not necessarily reflect those of the editor, publisher or their agents. Whilst every reasonable care is taken to ensure the accuracy of information included within this publication, the publisher takes no responsibility for errors or omissions in Direct Local. The content of Direct Local is not to be reproduced in any form without permission of the publisher. Please pass to a friend, recycle or compost. All adverts designed by Direct Local are the property of Direct Local please contact us if you wish to reprint them in other publications as a small release fee Is applied. Use of adverts designed by us will need written permission first.

Editor

Michael Davies

Journalist

Lisa Davies

Distribution coordinator

Matthew Clarke

10 High Street

Shirehampton

Bristol

BS11 0DP

Email: info@directlocalonline.com

Website: www.directlocalbristol.co.uk

Regular editorials By:

Andrea Sexton, Martin Powell

Daren Bane

Kayleigh Penny

kierstan Lowe

Corinna Ingram

David Hinksman

NOMINATIONS OPENING SOON FOR BRISTOL YOUNG HEROES AWARDS 2023

The Bristol Young Heroes Awards 2023 nominations will open on Wednesday 1st February – with a new awards category this year of ‘Fundraising Hero’ introduced to recognise the hard work and dedication to raise money and make a noticeable difference for local communities, charities, and other organisations.

The Bristol Young Hero Awards are celebrating 10 years of young Bristolians doing great things in the community. This exciting initiative recognises the valuable contribution that Bristol’s young people (aged 11-19) make to the city – particularly those who have overcome difficult circumstances, made a difference in the lives of others, or achieved great things.

Nominations for the highly sought-after awards are open until 15th March. Last year’s awards ceremony had to take place virtually as a result of the pandemic, having been delayed by several months in the hope of being able to do them in real life. In the end, the virtual ceremony was watched by six thousand viewers, opening them up to a much broader audience than the several hundred that usually attend them.

This year’s awards ceremony will return as a live streamed event. A panel of judges will decide on the winners ahead of the awards ceremony, which takes place at Bristol Harbour Hotel on Friday 7th July.

There are eleven categories in which people can nominate young people, including the ‘Team of Heroes Award’ this is a group or organisation which has shown exceptional team skills and dedication to benefiting young people in Bristol.

In addition, there is also the overall Hero award, chosen from the category winners, and the High Sheriff’s Award, which is given to an individual who has shown considerable dedication to the service of young people.

The Bristol Young Heroes Awards, which are now entering their tenth year, were originally set up by the Mayor of Bristol to help showcase and celebrate young people who have overcome adversity to achieve greatness or gone above and beyond to make a positive difference in their community. For the last seven years, they have been run by Community of Purpose, a charitable organisation dedicated to raising the aspirations of young people across the city.

Amy Kington, CEO of Community of Purpose, said: “The achievements of these young people are truly inspirational, and the awards are a wonderful way of recognising and rewarding those making positive changes to themselves and their communities.

The global pandemic called on us to work harder and smarter than ever and it’s amazing that we can celebrate some of the many young people across the city who rose to the occasion, who often don’t get that recognition.

“Every year these awards get better we are aiming for these to be the best ones yet, so make sure you get those nominations in!”

One of the previous nominees who attended the 2021 launch was Jason Menhinnitt from Bristol, who was nominated for the Action Hero Award in 2021, aged 12.

Jason said: “It felt amazing to be part of the nomination process, I met so many new people, including other young heroes that had been nominated as well as the fantastic sponsors and team from Community of Purpose. I feel very lucky to have been a part of it. Being nominated was an absolute privilege and made me feel valued and showed me that the work I do makes a difference and is recognised and appreciated by others.

“Since the awards, I’ve joined Community of Purpose in their Break Free holiday hunger programme as well as going to Bordeaux as part of the Bristol Together Championships programme and my involvement in these two programmes gave me the opportunity to continue to make a difference in our community and I’ve had so much fun whilst doing it.”

Three nominees from each category will attend the event as guests of honour with the winning young heroes announced on the night being presented with a trophy to commemorate their achievement.

CATEGORIES FOR 2023 AWARDS ARE AS FOLLOWS:

• Action Hero

• Arts & Culture Hero

• Caring Hero

• Enterprise Hero

• Environmental Hero

• Fundraising Hero

• Learning Hero

• Sporting Hero

• Super Hero

• High Sheriffs Award

• Team Award

For more information on how to get involved, for ticket enquiries or to nominate a young person, please look at the Community of Purpose website here

BRISTOL ROVERS WIN CUP COMPETITION!

Bristol Rovers is the first UK football club to support the Plastic Free Pint campaign, which is calling for a ban on plastic cups at all grounds. The campaign, spearheaded by A Plastic Planet, seeks an outright ban on plastic pint cups such as those used during music festivals and live sporting events. Bristol Rovers has moved away from using plastic cups at

The Memorial Stadium, switching to a planet-friendlier alternative. All cold beverages will be served in paper cups, which will be collected and recycled following each game. The club estimates that this switch will mean over a tonne of plastic waste will be saved from being sent to landfills every season. Head of Catering Iain Paterson said: “We are delighted to be working with A Plastic Planet and leading the way in working towards a plastic ban in sports stadia.”

“It makes sense that Bristol Rovers should be flying the flag for the city and the environment. I’m sure our fantastic supporters will embrace this project and help us work towards becoming a plastic-free stadium.”

Sian Sutherland, co-founder of A Plastic Planet, added: “It’s great to see Bristol Rovers lead the way in supporting our campaign to end this needless source of toxic pollution. They are helping to showcase how alternatives can be easily used at fantastic sporting events. I urge clubs across the UK to follow their lead and help turn off the plastic tap.”

For more information, visit www.aplasticplanet.com

MAKE YOUR MONEY GO FURTHER IN 2023

The start of a new year is the perfect time to take a fresh look at your finances and make your money stretch further, writes

Samuel Gee of Manning Gee Investments.

The cost-of-living crisis is making it harder than ever to make ends meet for many of us. Rising household bills and a looming recession are set to put people’s finances under even greater strain during 2023.

But by having a clear understanding of your financial situation and a bit of planning ahead, you may be able to weather the economic storm.

Here are our top tips for boosting your financial wellbeing in 2023:

Get financially organised. Check your income and outgoings; are there any savings to be made? Do you really need to subscribe to so many streaming and delivery services? Cutting back on Netflix or Prime deliveries are simple ways to save money.

The more you’re aware of your financial situation, the better off you’re likely to be. Simply burying your head in the sand will only lead to more problems whereas having an awareness of your financial position makes it possible to find solutions.

Have an emergency fund. If you haven’t got one, make this your biggest immediate goal if you can. Aim to save your first £1,000 or whatever amount you can put aside. Something is better than nothing. This will provide you with greater finan -

Pay down your debts. Pay off the smallest debts first if you can, not necessarily the highest interest ones. The satisfaction of a paid-off credit card can be an amazing and liberating feeling.

Don’t forget to keep an eye on offers to move balances to zero percent deals, potentially saving hundreds of pounds in interest. If you’re struggling with debt, there are some great charities like StepChange who can really help make a difference and support you in dealing with your lenders and creditors in a positive and proactive way.

Protect the people you love. Low-cost life cover can be life changing for families who need it. But don’t be tempted to cut essential payments like this just to save a few pounds a month.

And don’t forget to make your will otherwise the people you love may not end up with what you want them to.

Family outgoings. Once you’ve achieved these steps, start to save three to six months’ worth of outgoings to help you and your family, and keep topping it up. This additional saving to your initial emergency fund will be a great base to helping protect your financial position

Invest for your retirement. Saving 15 per cent off your income should be the ideal starting point, depending on your age. But again, saving something is better than nothing if at all possible. The more you save, the better your retirement can be.

Check your mortgage. Are you on the best deal? Could you save by remortgaging with your lender or elsewhere? Ensuring what’s likely to be your largest debt is in the best place possible can free up that extra bit of cashflow to help you month-to-month.

Use cash tied up in your home. In the right circumstances, equity release can be positively life-changing but shouldn’t be used for spending on frivolous items like a dream holiday. It’s crucial that you seek professional advice before making important decisions that could affect your home and your children’s inheritance.

THE BRISTOL TEAM TAKING ON 12 EPIC FUNDRAISING CHALLENGES

Jessie May ambassador Lloyd Kembrey, and his group of his friends, will embark on a series of 12 gruelling challenges during 2023. Over the next 12 months, they will fundraise for Jessie May, a charity that supports the palliative and nursing care of children with life limiting illness.

Jessie May holds a special place in the heart of Lloyd, because of the support and love that the nurses showed to his cousins Josephine and Francesca throughout their lives. were born with a life-limiting condition called, Sanfilippo disease Type A. The Jessie May Trust provided respite care for the girls and bereavement counselling for the family after their deaths.

Due to Lloyd’s consistent support since the age of 6, Jessie May asked him to be an ambassador, a position he was honoured to receive.

Thinking of ways to support the Trust, Lloyd knew he needed to do something special.

After much brainstorming, Lloyd, alongside his four friends, Joe, Jake, Brad and Chris, decided to create a programme of intense challenges, ranging from an ice skating marathon in Finland, through to racing horses up a mountain.

Not only is this mission amazing because of the tasks the boys are going to endure, but it is a real feat of love. Lloyd knows first hand how profound the work of Jessie May can be, with his referring to their work as “immeasurable”, in regards to the “support given to his Auntie and Uncle”.

Lloyd has stated that he is “honoured and very proud to support the charity now in an official manner”.

Kim James-Coggins, the community engagement fundraising officer for Jessie May, has formed a close bond with Lloyd and his family, and says that any type of fundraising is incredible but Lloyd is “just crazy”.

As a smaller charity, any money raised by people like Lloyd goes straight into supporting families and children, providing end-of-life care and ensuring that children can be at home with their families.

Kim said: “Lloyd takes it to a whole new level with his challenges and we love that but any kind of help is amazing.”

Lloyd has been posting videos of his training on his Instagram and anyone who wishes to donate can do so on the

THE FABELMANS

Growing up in post-World War II era Arizona, young Sammy Fabelman aspires to become a filmmaker as he reaches adolescence, but soon discovers a shattering family secret and explores how the power of films can help him see the truth.

ALSO SHOWING AT SCOTT CINEMAS

Hengrove Fortfield

Hengrove BS14

Tuesday Vicky:

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 twothirds 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.

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.

VEGAN COCONUT CURRY

INGREDIENTS

1 tbsp olive oil

1 onion, finely chopped

2 garlic cloves, crushed

5cm ginger, grated

1 red chilli, deseeded and finely chopped

(optional)

1 tsp each of ground cumin, turmeric and coriander

1 large aubergine, cubed

400ml can reduced fat coconut milk

250g pack ready cooked green lentils

100g frozen peas

½ x 25g pack coriander, roughly chopped

250g pack basmati rice

METHOD

Heat the oil in a large saucepan and cook the onion for 3-4 mins, until just softened

Add the garlic, ginger and chilli, if using, then cook for another 2 mins

Stir in the spices, then cook for 1 minute more

Add the aubergine and cook for 2-3 mins, until just starting to soften

Stir in the coconut milk and lentils, and season well

Simmer gently for 10 mins, until slightly thickened

Add the peas and most of the coriander, then cook for 2 mins, to heat the peas

Cook the rice according to the pack instructions

Divide the rice between 2 plates, then top with the curry and scatter over the remaining coriander to serve

FRIDGE-RAID EGG FRIED RICE

INGREDIENTS

Tomato purée

1 garlic clove

2cm ginger, peeled

1/2 tsp dried chilli flakes

4 tsp rapeseed oil

2 spring onions, finely chopped

100g fresh or frozen diced mixed vegetables

40g cooked bacon

1 tbsp tomato ketchup

1 tbsp soy sauce

250g pouch of microwave rice (or leftover rice)

1 egg

Coriander leaves, to garnish

METHOD

In a small bowl, blitz together the tomato purée, garlic, ginger and chilli flakes, if using, with a stick blender until you have a coarse paste

Heat 3 tsp of the oil in a large nonstick wok or frying pan over a high heat

Stir-fry the spring onions and vegetables for 2-3 mins, until just starting to colour

Add the bacon and fry for a further minute, then add the spice paste and cook for 1 minute more.

Add the ketchup, soy sauce, remaining oil and rice, and stir-fry for 2 mins or until piping hot

Crack in the egg and leave to cook a little, then stir in vigorously

If you prefer the egg chunkier, allow it to set for a little longer, then stir through

Transfer to a serving plate and garnish with the coriander, if using

GREY HAIR SILVER LINING

Spotting your first grey hair should not be cause for self-loathing but rather embraced as a mark of coming sophistication, says mobile barbering pioneer Giuliano Dore. “Grey hair is a natural occurrence; however, styling is the key,” said Giuliano, founder of Get Groomed who offer corporate and individual mobile haircutting services.

“Adopting a modern haircut can transform not only your look, but also your outlook regardless of your hair colour. So even if you have grey hair, th ere’s a silver lining to that.

“You need to face the music and look for ways on how you can best wear your grey hair to your advantage.

“After all some of the world’s most high-profile heartthrobs are silver-haired – look at George Clooney, Mark Ruffalo, or Barack Obama.”

Giuliano, who founded the business with Sabrina Vjaykumar in 2017 which covers Birmingham, Manchester, London, Kent, and Guildford in West Surrey, says grey hair is currently in vogue.

“Going over to the silver side has been considered a legitimate stylish hair colour for a while and it’s currently having a moment with the younger crowd.

“They may be using artificial methods to get the look, but for the older guys who have it naturally, the key to rocking it is by accepting it and by being confident with it.”

Giuliano says one way to do this is to make use of hair products that can help bring out the best features and angles of grey hair.

“A lightweight gel or mousse will give you a more natural look and will accentuate your shine rather than mask your silver tones; but make sure your product isn’t too thick.

“A pomade will thicken nicely but remember to choose a silky finish for a more contemporary spin for this look.

“Grey hair can look dull when neglected so don’t forget to blow dry; the more voluminous your hair, the more youthful and appealing it looks.”

Giuliano says it is also important to dress the part to complement the look.

“Embrace a minimalist, less-is-more style and go for classic pieces and timeless colours. And dress age-appropriately; not like you’re trying hard to be one of the boys.”

Get Groomed provides barber on demand services to individual clients at their homes or in their hotel if they are away from home.

The service is also used by corporates as a company perk for staff. Clients include 3 Monkeys Zeno, Car Finance 24/7, PitchBook, Oscar Recruit and Pareto FM as a company perk for staff. Details of corporate sessions can be found at www.gogetgroomed.co.uk

BRISTOL ARENA DELAYED BUT THE SIZE OF VENUE TO BE INCREASED

The much-anticipated opening of Bistol’s new arena has been delayed until 2025, the developers behind the project have confirmed. The YTL Arena, being created from the conversion of the huge Brabazon Hangar at the old Filton Airfield, won’t now open for its first gig until late 2025 or early 2026. However, the venue will be even bigger - YTL Developments has said.

The capacity of the arena is to be increased from 17,000 to 19,000 by improving the design, the Malaysian firm added. The YTL Arena was originally pencilled in for a 2024 opening but that has since slipped and, for the past year or so, there had been no confirmed date for opening.

The company has blamed “delays resulting from the impact of Covid” and the general challenges in the construction market for the postponement.

It’s been a while since Bristol tried to bring the Eurovision Song Contest to the city, but there hasn’t been much progress on the YTL Arena. YTL said they are yet to start actual work to convert the hangar into the arena, but said they have been “making good progress” on the arena’s development and are “talking with major contractors”. YTL Arena chief executive Andrew Billingham said preparation work has been done.

“We have been making good progress on the development of YTL Arena Bristol and are now entering the final stages of design and talking with major contractors,” he said. “Work has begun on key pieces of infrastructure required including new road connections, establishing new power supplies and site preparation works.

“The train station at Brabazon is an important element and discussions continue on how this might be brought forward,” he added. The logistics of the train station at the Filton Airfield development site have been controversial, with a debate about who will pay for it and how many trains will end up running every evening to transport people attending events at the arena.

Mr Billingham said “Despite the delays to the opening date, YTL was “totally committed” to opening the arena.

Because of Covid and some other construction market issues, we’re now looking at a late 2025 or early 2026 opening date,” he said. “But YTL is still 100% committed to building Bristol’s first major indoor music arena and entertainment complex. We’ve made some design improvements that will allow us to increase the maximum capacity of the arena from 17,000 to 19,000, with over 2,000 premium seats.”

The arena will include exhibition and convention halls; banqueting capacity for 4,000 people; and a flexible hub for entertainment, film, TV and music rehearsals. YTL Developments also received approval from South Gloucestershire Council to create a 15-acre sustainable public park at the centre of Brabazon last year.

YTL has been working with Bristol-based interior designers Studio B on the arena plans. Studio B is a Clifton-based design agency which won the job to design the arena and the spaces around it. Its founder Kyle Clarke said winning the contract was the “highlight” of the year.

“Since we received the instruction, we’ve been completely consumed with designing selected spaces within the arena to completely blow the customer experience through the roof,” he said. “There isn’t another arena in the country that will come close. Huge hats off to the YTL Arena team for working with our relatively small, young, ambitious Bristol studio.

“Together, we’ve got exciting plans to bring in other local artists and small businesses, harnessing Bristol’s endless skill and talent to ensure the arena feels proudly part of the city,”

DUE DILIGENCE – THE PEOPLE PUZZLE

In property circles we are all familiar with the phrase “due diligence” but it is often talked about in terms of “the deal” – the bricks, mortar, facts and figures of the deal. Equally as important but often overlooked, is due diligence on the people you are working with. Here we take a look at “the people puzzle” and why checking out people, as well as property deals, is every bit as important.

We have all seen the posts on social media, you know the ones, the ones which make those of us who have been in business a while cringe. They are asking for money or JV partners, and they usually talk of amazing deals which “just cannot be missed” and are “only available today”. Further, most of us have come across the self-styled “property gurus,” sharks and unscrupulous people, who are out to con the unsuspecting of their hard-earned cash.

What is interesting though, is that when we hear the stories, we always think “this would never happen to me…

I would never fall for this” and yet people do and, it’s often not just the newbie investors who fall for the patter and the stories, it’s the experienced ones too. In this article we are going to look at the practical things we should be doing to check out the people in the deal, whilst also looking at some of the psychological principles too.

THE PRACTICAL CHECKS AND QUESTIONS YOU SHOULD ASK YOURSELF:

• Google the individual and the company (if there is one)

• Check out both company and individual on Companies House

• Request details of their background, experience, and track record

• Ask to speak to past clients or people who have invested or worked with them

• Search for them on social media and online forums

• Talk to people in your network – ask about the individual and the company

• Do all the usual due diligence on the deal itself – does it stack?

• Does their body language match their spoken language – what’s your “sense of them?”

• Do you feel comfortable with them?

• When things go wrong, as they often will, do you get a sense that they will be solution focused and working side by side with you or will they be finger pointing?

• Are they excessively flattering or overly charming?

• When you’ve spent time with them (over coffee etc.) how do they treat others?

• Are you compromised? More on this below.

In addition to the more tangible criteria above, I am a huge advocate of listening to your gut instinct. The message, which comes from somewhere deep inside the sum of your accumulated experiences, knowledge, and journey through life. Unfortunately, as human beings, we can all be compromised and, when we are, we can over-ride our gut instinct. The best examples of this are from things we do all the time – from that piece of cake we eat when we’re supposed to be watching calories, to the item we bought, that we haven’t budgeted for – we’ve all done it and we are past masters at it!

So, how do we prevent being compromised? The answer is in knowing yourself, your triggers and having a plan – someone to sense check with, time to stop and think, a network to bounce ideas off.

SOME OF THE HIGHLY CHARGED EMOTIONS, WHICH MAKE US OVERRIDE OUR GUT INSTINCT ARE:

• Excitement

• Greed

• Desperation

• Fear

Only you will know how you will feel, when you are in the grip of one of these emotions. When you feel that you may be, it’s time to stop, think, evaluate, and maybe sense check with someone outside the “deal” that you know and tr us

OTHER THINGS TO CONSIDER:

· Time – many successful transactions and partnerships are built over time. Are you being coerced into moving too quickly because a deal is “only available today” or does it feel as though someone is trying to short circuit the natural flow and rhythm of the relationship? Ask yourself what’s the urgency? Why do I need to decide now? What will be different tomorrow?

• Influence v manipulation – know the difference between the two. Who benefits?

• Is one party over reliant on the other and is the partnership equitable?

• Ethics – do both parties share the same ethos?

• Do you like them? We touched on this before. Property Investors that we talk to are often surprised when we say that we don’t work with people we don’t like. If you don’t like someone, then your instincts are trying to tell you something, in our experience, you ignore them at your peril – several decades of business has taught us this one!

Last, but not least, if it feels too good to be true, the chances are that it is! Take the time you need to assess, sense check and stop, look and listen. If something still doesn’t feel right, then move on, there is always another deal and lots of super ethical people out there to partner with, that will feel right!

Be who you’ve always been... a keen gardener

At Trymview Hall care home being a keen gardener doesn’t stop when you make the journey into care. Bring your life with you to a place you can call home. Award winning, person-centred care for over 40 years.

If you’re considering care for yourself or a loved one call 0117 453 0489.

Trusted to care.

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Westbury-on-Trym

careuk.com/trymview-hall

HOME IMPROVEMENT TIPS

How to strip wallpaper

Wall papering can be a pain, especially if you don’t have a steam stripper. So what’s the best and easiest way to remove wall paper?

First put a dust sheet down on any flooring you want to keep clean and reuse.

Tip: It’s not advisable to paper over existing wall paper. The new, wet paste may soften the older layer making the previous covering expand or pull away from the wall. So strip it off before redecorating.

The washing up liquid acts as a wetting agent and the wall paper paste helps to keep water on the wall while the paper soaks. If the wall paper is painted or washable then you will have to score the paper in a criss cross motion first to allow the wetting agent to soak in.

Allow at least five minutes soaking time, then use a wide stripping knife to lift the paper from the wall. Slide the scraper under a seam and push it away from you. Be careful not to dig it into the plaster.

If the paper won’t shift, sponge on more soapy water and allow a longer soak.

If there are several layers of paper on a wall or if the paper has been painted over, it is much easier to get off with a steam wall paper stripper. Hire one from your local tool hire service. The stripper gives out steam from a metal plate softening the paper so that it can be removed. But be careful when using a steam stripper on plasterboard , it can soften the surface so use the stripping knife as little as possible.

Sponge the old paper with warm water to which has been added a squirt of washing-up liquid.

OVER 30’s DANCE PARTY at the superb BAWA Club, Filton on the FIRST Friday of EVERY MONTH (except No Dance in JAN or AUG and the APRIL DANCE is on FRI 14th) It’s The Ideal Night Out For The 30 * 40 * 50 * 60 Age Range.

Come and Dance Amongst A Friendly Lively Crowd. Enjoy A Good Mix of Music, Dancing Thru’ the Decades including some Motown and Soul Favourites. Club times are 9 ‘til 1 (last entry 11pm) –Very Smart Casual NO Tee Shirts or Trainers & Gents are Required To Wear Collared Shirts. Dance adm £8

For more Info call 07860578708 or go to www.mingles.co.uk Facebook: Luv2mingle

BRISTOL LIGHT FESTIVAL 2023

Exciting new light installations have been confirmed for this year’s light festival in Bristol, organisers have said. The interactive trail will highlight iconic landmarks with works from international and local artists. Locations on the trail that will feature seven new pieces include the Floating Harbour, Temple Church, The Corn Exchange and Quakers Friars. The festival runs from 3 to 12 February between 17:00 GMT and 22:00.

An event spokesperson said there are some brand new commissions, with many of this year’s installations never having featured in Bristol bef ore. With varying themes and interactive techniques including mermaids, lights, voices, mirrors, lasers and sounds, they added the festival “will have something for everyone”.

Organisers have also been working with an organisation called Guide.AI to make a free audio guide available in 12 languages which visitors can download.

Bristol Light Festival creative director, Katherine Jewkes, said the calibre of artwork available to see and experience “is something quite special”.

“The combination of internationally acclaimed artists and leading local talent will offer visitors some real treats as they explore the event,”

“There is a real love for Bristol amongst the artists and an excitement to bring their art to the city.”

Head of Bristol City Centre Business Improvement District (BID) Vicky Lee said her team are “thrilled to have such a fantastic line up of content and to bolster Bristol’s creative reputation”.

“The event embodies everything that Bristol represents and showcases it as the vibrant, playful and creative city that we know and love,”

COMMUNITIES ASKED TO HELP REGION PREPARE FOR NEW ARENA

People who live and work near the proposed site of the new arena are being asked to help plan for its opening. The local councils (Bristol City Council and South Gloucestershire Council) have launched a joint survey to learn more about people’s travel habits and parking needs.

The information collected will help the authorities investigate what kind of measures might be needed to mitigate the impacts of the development.

The new YTL Arena Bristol, being built in the Brabazon Hangars next to the former Filton airfield, is expected to open towards the end of 2025 or early 2026.

Arena goers will be able to get to and from the venue by train, public bus, shuttle bus, walking and cycling, and will be able to park in the arena’s car park.

However, some people may also choose to drive and park on nearby streets, so this is something the councils need to plan for.

The arena travel and parking survey is available at www.southglos.gov.uk/arenaparking until Monday 6 March.

If measures are needed Bristol City Council and South Gloucestershire Council will carry out further consultation with local people.

Councillor Don Alexander, Bristol City Council’s Cabinet Member for Transport, said: “We’re getting set to welcome YTL Arena Bristol, bringing a host of worldclass live music and entertainment to our city.

“We’re working to deliver even more new railway stations for the Bristol area at North Filton and Henbury but, in the meantime, to help us prepare for the arena opening, and the thousands of people who will be travelling to the new venue on a regular basis, we are asking about how people travel in the area and their parking needs.

“This is why we need plenty of people who live or work in the area surrounding the new arena to fill in the survey.”

Councillor Steve Reade, South Gloucestershire Council’s Cabinet Member for Transport, said: “The new arena is such an exciting development for South Gloucestershire and the wider region. It will really put the area on the map.

“The new arena, along with the redevelopment of the former airfield site, will create jobs and provide homes for local people.

“We are already investing in improving walking, cycling and public transport links in this area of South Gloucestershire but to help us make further preparations for such significant development we need to hear from residents and people who work in the area so we can work to minimise the impact on our communities.”

To request paper copies of the consultation information, email transportservices@southglos.gov.uk or call 01454 868009.

To find out more about the YTL Bristol Arena go to www.ytlarenabristol.co.uk.

Take a break and try to solve theses puzzles

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

Good luck!

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7 differences between these two pictures. Are your eyes good enough to see them all?

WELCOME TO YOUR HOROSCOPE WHATS IN-STORE FOR YOU?

AQUARIUS JAN 20 - FEB 18

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.

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

TAURUS APR 20 - MAY 20

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

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

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.

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

L IBRA 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.

SCORPIO

OCT 23 - NOV 21

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.

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

Contact Marie to find out whats in store for you this month on: 07949 800354

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.

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.

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.

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.