North Somerset Direct Local Magazine January 2023

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BRISTOL’S BEST HOME COOKS SERVE UP VEGANUARY

Nick-named “Etsy for food”, All About The Cooks is an online marketplace founded in Bristol, which makes it deliciously easy for the people across the city to eat real food made by local people, all in the comfort of their own homes.

This January, the platform’s talented home cooks are planning to create vegan feasts, inspired by the national campaign Veganuary, with meat and dairy-free twists on their globally-inspired menus (the dishes will be live on the site from 30th December).

At its core, All About The Cooks enables home cooking enthusiasts hungry to share their love for home-cooked food with even hungrier residents, with menus and dishes from across the world, all prepared right here in Bristol and available to order online. With collection or delivery arranged directly from the cook, the days of junk food and faceless deliveries are over. Similarly, you’ll be supporting your neighbours - with over £40,000 already paid to local cooks since the marketplace’s launch.

Inspired by her native South America, Mireya, who lives in Henbury, usually cooks up Brazilian and Chilean delights, including empanadas Chilenas and pao de queijo (Brazilian cheese balls). For Veganuary however, Mireya has veganised the traditional Brazilian Feijoada, typically made with pork, with vegan smoked sausages and bacon exclusively for Bristol residents to order via www.allaboutthecooks.co.uk.

Tomer, who lives in Bishopston, will be offering Middle-Eastern vegan feasts with a menu that changes weekly. Stella in Redfield will be baking stunning vegan celebration cakes, and as a baker at Bristol’s ever popular Hart’s Bakery, her sweet treats are not to be missed. Those looking for Spanish dishes will be delighted to try Horfield-based Rosa’s menu, including vegan tapas plates such as meat-free chorizo cooked in cider.

Those in Easton will be delighted to tuck into Indira’s Cuban delicacies including Frijoles negros; a delicious and rich black bean stew flavoured with bay leaf and garlic and served alongside rice, cassava with a mojito sauce and plantains.

Perfect for those looking for family feasts, fuss-free dinners for two, or a simple and delicious meal for one, All About The Cooks offers a huge host of options for dinners, sweet treats and more, carefully prepared in home kitchens with full health ratings.

Those yet to try out the food of Bristol’s best home cooks can get £10 off their first order by signing up for the newsletter on the website: www.allaboutthecooks.co.uk/newsletter-sign-up

To join in the fun and become one of Bristol’s most well-loved cooks from the comfort of your own home, local cooks can apply via using the website: https:// allaboutthecooks.co.uk/become-a-cook/

All About The Cooks’ current introductory sign-up offer to new cooks - 0% commission fees for the first two months - means the wide range of cuisines and menus is sure to expand even further than its impressively diverse pool, which already includes Algerian, Portuguese, Vietnamese, French, Greek, British, Indian, Cuban, Pakistani, South America and Caribbean foods to name a few.

Claire Ladkin, Founder of All About The Cooks, said:

“With Veganuary just around the corner it's fantastic to see our community of cooks reinventing their home-cooked menus with plant-based ingredients and twists. Hopefully these tasty dishes bring about a bit of Veganuary inspiration and tantalise Bristol’s taste buds! Having launched here in Bristol back in 2020 it’s been amazing to help so many people turn their passion for cooking into a vocation, and see their foods go down so well across the city.”

BRISTOL PENSIONERS TAKE CASH OUT THEIR HOMES TO COVER SOARING BILLS

A Bristol finance firm is urging struggling pensioners to talk to relatives before using cash tied up in their homes to cover rising bills as record numbers turn to equity release amid the cost-of-living crisis.

Manning Gee Investments says the number of people enquiring about equity release plans has quadrupled during the last few months as cash-strapped pensioners struggle to make ends meet.

Equity release lets homeowners aged 55 and over access tax-free cash from the value of their property. But Manning Gee Investments says using these lifetime mortgages to fund short-term needs may not be the right solution for everyone.

The firm adds that the increased local demand for equity release plans reflects a growing national trend. Homeowners aged 55+ took out a record 13,452 new equity release plans between July and September 2022, according to data from the Equity Release Council. This represents an eight per cent increase on the previous quarter.

And in the South West, the number of new equity release plans has increased by 25% since 2017, according to a new market report published by the council this autumn.

Samuel Gee, director of Manning Gee Investments in Bristol, said: “We have seen growing interest in equity release from retired people with mortgages who worry about paying their bills this winter. As well as soaring heating and food costs, the recent hike in interest rates is only adding to their financial worries.

“Equity release can offer a lifeline for some older people who have all their money tied up in their homes. It’s basically a loan secured against your property which allows you to stay in your home and it doesn’t have to be repaid until you pass away or move into care.

“But equity release isn’t right for everyone and we are concerned that vulnerable homeowners are rushing into it without consulting their children first, or considering other options that may be open to them.

“For example, you may have other investments or assets that could be used, or you could consider downsizing to a smaller property. It’s also important to understand the potential costs of servicing the interest on a lifetime mortgage.

“It’s therefore crucial that you seek professional advice and exhaust all options before making important decisions that could affect your home - and your children’s inheritance.”

OVERCOMING FUEL POVERTY REQUIRES A HOLISTIC APPROACH

FUEL POVERTY. IT’S SOMETHING WE’RE HEARING MORE AND MORE ABOUT.

We’re constantly reminded that inflation is going up and more people are struggling. Yes, there’s a need to deal with the immediacy of the situation. But there’s also a need to think about how we support our customers - and the longevity of what we, and others, do.

Statistics from the UK Poverty Report present a sobering analysis of where the country is currently. There is a staggering number of people in work who are reliant on benefits. And with poverty on the up and prices rising, forecasts suggest that the average household is set for a £1.5k real term cut in their annual income.

THIS DOESN’T BODE WELL FOR OUR CUSTOMERS AND THOSE MOST IN NEED.

Not being able to heat your home can have a profound impact on your quality of life.

We believe that everyone deserves to live in a property which is good quality and affordable to run. And if you look across Sovereign, you’ll see our approach to overcoming fuel poverty is holistic for this reason.

Last month we launched our new Customer Support Fund. Between now and 2024 we’ll be setting aside £1.5 million each year to provide targeted support to our customers who are most affected by the cost-of-living crisis.

We’re putting more money into our existing Helping Hand Fund which provides vouchers to those in crisis. Our team is also providing more emergency fuel vouchers as well as doubling our funding agreement with Pocket Power.

All of this will mean that more customers will benefit and have access to better deals and discounts on gas and electric, water, broadband and mobile bills.

The demand on our services is high, but we’ve listened and provided more targeted support - carefully balancing what we offer against what we need to continue investing in our customers’ homes.

These are just some of our short-term interventions to help our most vulnerable customers experiencing fuel poverty and in a state of crisis.

To address fuel poverty we know there’s often a need to provide immediate intervention to help customers out of crisis. But as soon as we’ve done this, we turn our attention to longer term solutions.

How our customers can sustain themselves in the future either by finding work – or better paid work is key. Our employment and training team will look at how they can help and what opportunities they can explore.

THEN WE START TO LOOK MANY YEARS DOWN THE LINE.

Housing associations have a vital role to play when it comes to addressing fuel poverty. Not only do they provide that immediate safety net and route out of crisis, but in the case of Sovereign we build new homes and retrofit existing ones. By improving and investing in our customers’ homes, we help to reduce how susceptible our customers are to changes in energy prices. It’s an important, but often overlooked point.

There aren’t many organisations that can say they are taking a truly holistic approach to addressing fuel poverty. Housing associations like Sovereign, which provide welfare, access to employment opportunities, and build homes for the future are one of the many few doing exactly that.

10 NEW YEAR’S RESOLUTION IDEAS FOR 2023

It’s that time of year again! New Year’s resolutions are a great way to set goals and intentions for the upcoming year.

But let’s be honest, most of us never stick to our resolutions. This year, let’s try something different.

Let’s set realistic, healthy, and enjoyable goals that we can actually achieve. Here are 10 popular resolution ideas to help get you started.

1. TRY OUT A NEW HAIRSTYLE

New year, new you — right? It might be cliche, but we’re always here for trying out a new look. After all, what better way to feel refreshed and ready for the year to come than by giving yourself permission to try something new?

Whether finally learning to braid or blowout your hair, updating your go-to makeup picks or going bold with your fashion choices, the new year is the perfect time to embrace change. Go for it, we say!

2. PRACTISE MINDFULNESS

For years now you’ve probably heard about the benefits of embracing a mindful lifestyle. From reducing stress to improving sleep, mood and general life enjoyment, mindfulness is something we should all practise.

Rather than trying to dive straight in with long meditation sessions, we suggest starting small. Set aside five minutes each day to sit and reflect or use a mindfulness journal to jot down a few things you’re grateful for. You’d be amazed at how quickly these seemingly small activities lead to a change in outlook!

3. STICK TO A BUDGET

Guilty of setting savings goals only to watch your bank balance dwindle into nothingness, anyway? Yep. It’s hard to set a budget and actually stick to it. Let alone save anything these days. But, with the right bank account, travel cards and insurance plans, managing your money doesn’t have to be such a mission.

So, start the year on the right track by sorting your accounts and making sure they work for you, your family and your lifestyle, not the other way around.

4. TRY NEW RECIPES

It’s all too easy to eat out and order in these days. Between neverending restaurant openings and Deliveroo deals, you might find your kitchen is getting less and less use.

But, with the turn of the year comes an opportunity to break out the apron and embrace the joy of cooking at home. And the best (aka easiest) way to do this? By investing in an air fryer. These babies take all the pain out of meal prep and ensure you can whip up delicious and nutritious meals in no time at all. Whether you’re game to host Sunday roasts with the family, potluck dinners with friends or indulge in your favourite fried foods on a Friday — air fryers can do it all.

5. READ EVERY NIGHT

A great way to wind down at the end of the day, improve your vocabulary, feel inspired and exercise your imagination — why not incorporate 20 minutes of reading into your nightly routine?

From fun and frivolous holiday reads to page-turning horrors and inspirational biographies and self-help reads, there is literally a style of story for everyone. So, stop those excuses and break out that Kindle or library card now!

6. CUT BACK ON ALCOHOL

After a month of festivities, it’s no surprise that you might be considering cutting back on your alcohol consumption. Whether aiming to engage in Dry January or just in search of some satisfying alcohol-free alternatives, give your liver a wee break — it will thank you for it!

7. SET UP A SLEEP ROUTINE

Are you sick of feeling tired? You’re not alone. Sleep hygiene is something most of us can improve upon, and it’s easier than you might think to get started.

Small changes to your nightly routine, like switching off the TV earlier, investing in comfortable pillows and lavender pillow spray to assist with relaxation, and a good eye mask to block any unwanted light, can make a big difference. So if you’re looking to create a better sleep routine, this is the year for it.

8. BECOME A PLANT PARENT

This resolution may seem like a bit of fun, but it’s actually an important one. As reported by the Royal Horticultural Society, studies have shown that adding a little plant life to your home office, bedroom, living room, balcony or patio can help reduce stress, improve your mood and even assist with concentration and productivity.

Plus, with so many funky and functional indoor and outdoor pot plants available, you can create your own aesthetically pleasing oasis with ease.

9. LIFT WEIGHTS

Yes, yes, you knew this was coming. In every resolution list — ever — there’s a commitment to exercise more regularly. But, unlike goals of visiting the gym every day or running a marathon, this one is more reasonable. And you can even do it from the comfort of your home. Lifting weights is an oft-forgotten (or avoided) part of keeping our bodies healthy and preventing injury, but now’s the time to incorporate it into your exercise routine.

10. BOOK A HOLIDAY

Resolutions can’t ALL be practical or about the day-to-day. It’s just as important to reward yourself, have something on the books to look forward to and get out into the world. So, we’re all for locking in your next getaway now. Whether you’re after an intrepid snow-filled adventure, a dreamy sun-soaked vacay or an exciting city break — your next trip awaits!

EMPIRE OF LIGHT

Set in an English seaside town in the early 1980s, EMPIRE OF LIGHT is a powerful and poignant story about human connection and the magic of cinema from Academy Award® winning director Sam Mendes.

ALSO SHOWING AT SCOTT CINEMAS

TILL A MAN CALLED OTTO

BE WHO YOU WANT TO BE AT TRYMVIEW HALL

Care UK’s Trymview Hall care home in Westbury-on-Trym you can continue to be who you’ve always been, or who you want to be, while receiving award-winning care and attention in a place you can call home.

We treat everyone as individuals so that you can take your life with you on your journey into care. You’ll be supported to continue much-loved interests, to rediscover long lost hobbies or to try something new, as well as making new friends.

IT’S ALL ABOUT LIFESTYLE

At Trymview Hall our team is passionate about supporting you to enjoy a fulfilling life, full of meaningful experiences.

When you join us, we’ll learn all about your personality, your interests and preferences so we can create a fully personalised lifestyle plan to support you to live life in the way you want.

We organise an array of daily activities, such as exercise classes, pet therapy and gardening, as well as events, entertainment, outings and treasured one- to-one time. Then there are our strong ties with local groups, charities and schools so residents feel connected to local life.

Recently, residents of Trymview Hall have enjoyed an outing in the minibus, visiting local retail favourites and stopping for a spot of lunch. Whilst other residents have enjoyed their favourite past time of flower arranging with friends.

EVERYTHING UNDER ONE ROOF

Trymview Hall is a purpose-built care home where every luxury has been thought of. There’s a coffee shop, hair salon, cinema, bar, and beautiful landscaped gardens.

TRUST US TO CARE

At Care UK, we’ve been delivering high quality, person-centred care for over 40 years. That’s why over 8,000 families across the country trust us to care for their older loved one

To find out more about Trymview Hall, please call 0117 911 1605 or email nicola.wolff-donitz@careuk.com

Trymview Hall care home Southmead Road, Bristol BS10 5DW careuk.com/ trymview-hall

CURRIED BUTTERNUT SQUASH AND PEANUT BUTTER SOUP

This is the perfect antidote to those cold January days…

Makes about 6 servings

Prepare less than 30 mins

Cook around 40 mins

Ingredients

• 1kg butternut squash

• 40g butter (almond oil if vegan)

• 1 medium onion, thinly sliced

• 2 sticks of celery, thinly sliced

• 2 tsp mild curry powder

• 1 litre veg stock

• 5 llbs crunchy peanut butter

• 300 ml milk (coconut milk if vegan)

• A squeeze of lemon juice

• Salt and pepper

• 50g salted and roasted peanuts

Method

1. Peel the butternut squash, cut into wedges, remove the seeds and fibres and cut into small chunks.

2. Melt butter or oil in a large saucepan and cook onion and celery on low, until soft and lightly browned. Add the curry powder and fry for 1 minute, then add the squash and stock. Simmer for a good 20 minutes until the squash is very tender.

3. Puree the soup with the peanut butter (in batches if necessary). Return to the pan with milk and lemon juice and heat up again. Season to taste and serve with the peanut and coriander garnish.

VERY VEGGIE FINGERS

Ingredients

1 medium sweet potato

1 large white potato

2 tbsp. sweetcorn

2 tbsp. peas

1 tbsp. parmesan or grana padano, grated

Small bunch of chives or 1 spring onion, finely chopped 30g dried breadcrumbsl

Method

1. Preheat the oven to 200C/ Fan 180C.

2. Stab the potatoes and place on a lined baking tray for 50 minutes to 1 hr 15.

3. Once baked, scoop out the flesh from the potatoes and allow to cool.

4. Stir through the peas, sweetcorn, parmesan and chives.

5. Divide into 12-14 portions.

6. Shape each piece into a ball, roll in the breadcrumbs and the roll between the hands too create a finger.

7. If serving straight away, bake in the oven for 12-15 minutes. If freezing, use greaseproof paper between each layer of fingers.

Use within 2 months of freezing.

Serving suggestions and adaptations:

• Add grated fresh beetroot for an earthier flavour and a beautiful

• pink colour! Squeeze out excess water after grating.

• Add grated carrot

• Add ½- 1tbsps. Tomato puree

• Use fresh basil instead of the chives or spring onion

• Use rice crispies, cornflakes or oats instead of breadcrumbs

• Add flaked cooked salmon for a great source of omega 3 (N.B fish can only be reheated once so ensure adding to cold ingredients).

UPFEST FESTIVAL TO MOVE TO BIANNUAL MODEL

A fallow year for the festival as organisers focus on putting on the renowned street art festival for the city in 2024

Europe’s largest street art festival, Upfest, will move to a biannual model, taking a break in 2023, following the rise in infrastructure costs.

Organisers have made the tough decision to not hold the festival in 2023 as they focus attention into planning ahead for 2024 with another stellar line-up of artists.

Upfest is a highly anticipated event on Bristol’s cultural calendar which attracts over 50,000 visitors to the festival across the weekend. As one of the city's largest free-to-attend festivals, it is important to the Upfest team that it remains a free festival for everyone to attend. Previous editions have brought phenomenal, large-scale murals to Bedminster including Kobra’s iconic John Lennon mural & Insane51’s 3D piece featuring Greek Goddess NYX.

Due to the increasing costs related to putting on such a large-scale event, bringing world-class street artists from across the globe to the city of Bristol, festival organisers need to raise at least £180,000 to stage the free event in 2024.

The Upfest team will focus on other projects and interventions throughout 2023 including artist exhibitions at their North Street Gallery, as well as getting a head start on 2024 planning.

Steve Hayles, Upfest co-founder said: “We’re gutted to not be putting on the festival in 2023 but the risk to the organisation is just too great. We know our visitors love the festival and it has played a big part in making Bedminster a street art hub for the city and has become known internationally for it.

With rising infrastructure costs, site fees and without funding, we won't be able to raise the funds we need in 2023 to keep the festival free, so instead we will turn our attention to 2024. Anyone who would like to support or sponsor the festival in 2024 would be very welcome and please do get in touch."

Upfest 2022 saw the festival move to a brand new location at Greville Smyth Park, as well as Ashton Gate Stadium and the Tobacco Factory, and saw over 400 artists from 70 countries congregate for a weekend of street art magic.

World-class artists such as Aches, Inkie, Kashink, L7m, Sabek and Goin are amongst the many talents to have picked up a can of spray paint and unleash their unique talents onto the blank canvas of Bedminster’s high streets.

To keep up to date with news, events and updates from Upfest visit: www.upfest.co.uk

VALLEY FEST ANNOUNCES FIRST ACTS FOR 2023

The Kooks will headline Saturday night at Valley Fest (3rd - 6th August, 2023). The family-friendly, food and music festival takes place alongside Chew Valley Lake, near Bristol.

Pillars of the UK indie pop world, The Kooks, launched their career with ‘Inside In/Inside Out’. This quadruple-platinum album includes ‘She Moves in Her Own Way’, ‘You Don’t Love Me’ and the band’s top five single ‘Naive’.

Since then, they've gone on to release five further albums, including 'Let’s Go Sunshine,’ which achieved top ten status in the UK Album Charts in 2018. Their latest record,’10 Tracks To Echo In The Dark’ flirts with genres from 80s synth-pop to funk to prog rock.

Josh Eggleton will head up the food programme. He is Chef Patron of the multi-award-winning restaurant The Pony Chew Valley (previously the Michelin starred Pony & Trap). Helping to curate a stellar feasting menu, Josh will also bring in many of the much-loved and award-winning chefs of the South West for demonstrations.

One such chef is Peter Sanchez-Iglesias, of Michelin-starred Paco Tapas and newly-opened Casa. He will be behind the Friday Feast. Peter will also run a chef demonstration, sharing some of his skills, knowledge and passion.

Tickets for the feasts will go sale in the new year.

“We’re off to a strong start and there’s still so much to come! More headliners, Arcadia’s Alchemist Playground line up plus our Regenerative programme, not forgetting our workshops and wellbeing classes. I can’t wait for everyone to Get On My Land!”

Expect hedge-to-hedge Somerset sparkle and plenty of nonsense with a spectacular soundtrack. Weekend Tickets are £155 (plus booking fee) and can be bought in instalments to spread the payment from www.valleyfest.co.uk.

Luke Hasell, Valley Fest Founder says:

DECEMO

WHAT’S A PROPERTY INSPECTION?

The comments we hear about property inspections and the rationale behind not doing them, mostly from self-managing Landlords range from

“I just don’t find the time to do them,”

“It’s a bit of a waste of everyone’s time really” and, my personal favourite”

“I have a good relationship with my tenants and trust that they will let me know if something is wrong.”

In our experience property inspections are an absolute must – not carrying them out is a false economy and, worse, stores up potential, expensive problems for the future. They highlight issues, they help catch things early and, on a more psychological level, they demonstrate to your tenants that you take their safety and the care of the property, seriously and that you are a hands on landlord or letting agent.

Here’s the thing about inspections – if done correctly and carried out regularly, not only do they allow you to ensure that any issues with your property (and there will be issues from time to time, this is part and parcel of property management) are found in a timely manner and can be sorted before they escalate, but in addition, in doing so, it helps to maintain good relations with your tenants and fosters an environment where issues do not get ignored when they arise or swept under the carpet – but dealt with, quickly and timely, as and when they arise and before they grow into big and expensive problems!

The protection of your biggest asset should not be left to chance, abandoned because you “simply don’t have the time” or hinge on a relationship that you believe you have with your tenants. Inspections allow you the opportunity to catch issues before they become big problems and to get a feel for what is happening inside your property and how it is being looked after.

We often notice things before tenants do and we always encourage them to be present at inspections – they live in the property, so they will know if something is wrong and collaborating with them to put it right, is the cornerstone of good property and tenant management.

And, finally, my top tip – always have a look in the loft and any garage – this can be a wealth of information and a real eye opener!

During inspections, some of the things we look for are:

Safety and compliance issues, for example – alarms, sockets, fire safety and any obvious HHSRS issues);

• Fabric of the building issues -boiler, radiators & TRVs (thermostatic radiator valve), guttering, fences etc.;

• A stitch in time issues – silicone, mould, drains etc;

• Are tenants looking after the property;

• Is the garden (if applicable) in a good condition and being looked after;

• Who and how many are living there – different sized shoes, 2 toothbrushes, too many beds/mattresses etc;

• Whether there are any illegal substances visible – remember sight and smell here;

• Whether there are any candles being used or other infringements to the contract;

• Whether there is evidence of any pest infestations;

• An opportunity to take meter reads and to talk with your tenants.

A property inspection is exactly what it says it is; an inspection (careful examination) of the property. It is not a cursory look; it is detailed and it is systematic. If you can enlist the participation of tenants and make them a part of the process, then we would advise that you do – we have always found this to be positive. It is a time to spot any issues, to answer any questions or queries from tenants and it is an essential part of the lettings process.

If you have any questions about inspections, or we can help in any way, then give us a call on 0117 440 6789.

5 WAYS COLD WEATHER CAN AFFECT YOUR DOG

While it’s tempting to think your dog’s fur coat will provide everything they need to stay warm and safe this winter, they still need a little help from their human companions. As temperatures set to drop, certain risks increase for your dog.

Here are 5 ways cold weather can affect your dog,

DANGER OF SLIPPING/FALLING AND EXPOSURE TO TOXINS

During icy and snowy conditions, slippery surfaces increase the risk of injuries due to falls. And while salting is a convenient solution for humans, the types of salt used to melt ice and snow and keep it from refreezing are somewhat harsh for our four-legged friends. These salts – typically calcium or sodium chloride – can irritate the pads of your dog’s feet and are toxic if ingested.

DIFFICULTY REGULATING BODY TEMPERATURE IN SICK OR ELDERLY DOGS

Low body temperature can affect your dog’s bodily functions in many ways, and older dogs and those with kidney problems, Cushing’s disease, or hormonal issues can have a harder time regulating their body temperature. A low body temp can affect how well their heart works, cause an irregular heartbeat, and bring about low oxygen in the body or a change in blood pressure. It can suppress the immune system, leading to a higher infection rate and slower wound healing. Cold can also affect the gastrointestinal system, slowing down digestion as well as making it harder for the liver to metabolize medications.

ALTERED METABOLISM

It takes energy to keep warm, and some dogs may need a slight increase in calories once the temperature drops below a certain degree to maintain body heat. For this reason, dogs subjected to cold have an altered metabolism, which may cause weight loss. However, keep in mind that not all dogs need this bump in calories, especially if they are sedentary in the winter – the health challenges overweight pets face are very serious.

SUSCEPTIBILITY TO FROSTBITE

When your dog is exposed to extreme cold, such as when the temperature drops below 32°F (0°C), their blood vessels constrict to divert blood towards their core to keep the vital organs warm. This reduces blood flow to the extremities, meaning their ears, tail, and paws are susceptible to frostbite. The combination of decreased blood flow and cold temperature can lead to the freezing of the tissues, which causes severe damage.

RISK OF BEING LEFT IN COLD CARS

A lot of attention is paid to the dangers of leaving an animal trapped in a hot car during the summer, but the risk is just as serious in winter. In lower temperatures, cars act as a refrigerator, holding in the cold, and this can cause hypothermia and even death.

BRISTOL PARKWAY STATION APPROVED FOR NEW PLANS

The plans for the new station have been approved by South Gloucestershire Council’s cabinet. The goal is to create a modern station that is more accessible and connected with the neighboring communities of Stoke Gifford, Harry Stoke, and Bradley Stoke.

The new station will include walking and cycling routes, improved connections to bus services, new retail and leisure facilities, community spaces, and housing and employment space.

The masterplan, which has been written following six weeks of public engagement over the summer, aims to transform the site into a ‘living station’ where people want to spend time.

Four unique areas will be connected by a new street running through the site.

These areas include:

A new community park called St Michael’s Place

A station building and public space called Station Square

A new nature reserve and green space called Stoke Gifford Park

New employment area called he Brickworks

SGC has worked in partnership with Network Rail, GWR and the West of England Combined Authority on the masterplan.

Cabinet member for transport Steve Reade, said: “This new masterplan is an ambitious vision to transform Bristol Parkway into a major new destination and for it to become a fitting gateway for the region and South Gloucestershire.

This masterplan reimagines Bristol Parkway as a destination complete with a new station, places where people can work, meet friends and family, as well as providing new parks where residents can enjoy the outdoors."

Dan Okey, head of regional development at GWR, said: “The plan rightly sets an ambitious vision for the station and surrounding development. Improving interchange, station capacity and enhancing customer facilities are central to the vision.

“We look forward to working with our partners to turn this into reality, as we work to re-value rail in the hearts and minds of the travelling public.”

Malcolm Parsons, Network Rail industry programme director, said: “The Bristol Parkway masterplan, which we’ve worked on with SGC, GWR and Weca is an ambitious reimagining of the station as an improved gateway to the north Bristol area and beyond.

“The plan focuses on enhanced connectivity with the surrounding communities and puts accessibility at the heart of Bristol Parkway with improved facilities for those who use wheelchairs and other mobility aids.”

HOSPITALITY AWARDS NIGHT SET TO BE BRISTOL'S BIGGEST YET

The next ‘Night of the Stars’ event celebrating the heroes of hospitality in Bristol is set to be the biggest and best yet.

The fifth awards evening, organised and hosted by the Bristol Hoteliers Association (BHA), takes place on Thursday March 2 at Ashton Gate stadium.

Almost 400 people – a record number – are set to attend which the BHA says is a welcome vote of confidence for the city’s hospitality businesses, which have endured an extremely challenging period over the past couple of years.

Nominations are now being invited from BHA hotels for a number of award categories: Employee of the Year (front of house); Employee of the Year (heart of house); Rising Star; Chef of the Year (up to Sous Chef level); Hotel Bright Idea & Best Innovation; Team of the Year; Unsung Hero; Community Spirit and Green Initiative.

BHA Chair Raphael Herzog said: “Around 350 people attended our last Night of the Stars, in February this year, so we are delighted to have almost 400 already set to attend the next one.

“After the past few years – with Brexit and the pandemic – it is more important than ever to recognise and reward the incredible efforts of our inspiring individuals and talented teams.

“We would not be able to put on this event without the generous support of our sponsors, to whom we are extremely grateful.”

There are nine main awards sponsors this year: Bristol Sports (Ashton Gate); Johnson Laundry, Bristol Bid Team/VisitWest, Bristol College, Limber, Entegra Procurement Services, Molson Coors, 6 O’Clock Gin and Sounds Commercial.

The welcome drink is being sponsored by Pommery Champagne and FXC Brands.

Mr Herzog said: “Their support shows everyone who is working so hard in Bristol’s hospitality industry that their efforts are recognised and valued.”

In addition to honouring Bristol’s hospitality heroes, the glittering gala will also help raise vital funds for Bristol Autism Support, a charity which provides valuable assistance to thousands of local families affected by autism.

Anyone who wants to find out more about the BHA and the Night of the Stars event should visit www.bristol-hoteliers.co.uk

CHILDREN'S SCRAPSTORE BENEFITS FROM CLINIC WASTE

Staff at Bristol’s longest-established fertility clinic are pooling their waste resources to create a valuable regular contribution to Bristol Children’s Scrapstore - and avoiding excess items going to landfill at the same time.

The new green initiative at the Bristol Centre for Reproductive Medicine (BCRM) reflects the shared desire of the team to reduce some of the negative impacts that the healthcare sector has on the planet.

Senior andrologist Karla Turner who is spearheading the ‘Go Green’ campaign said: “Colleagues at the clinic have begun to normalise a more sustainable way of thinking, and the whole team is reviewing dayto-day processes to see where it’s possible to prevent, reduce or reuse items.

“We appreciate that recycling is not the greenest way ahead: the very best option is waste reduction – simple things like using our own coffee mugs at the dispenser, instead of recyclable cups.

“Although we are obliged to dispose of most of the clinic’s scrap items as clinical waste, we have identified several areas where we can reduce our contribution to landfill.

“We started off by collecting 10 days’ worth of non-recyclable items that would all have ended up in landfill - polystyrene delivery boxes and cold packs, pipette tip boxes, laboratory needle packaging and the metal rods that form part of the devices used to freeze embryos – and were astonished by how much there was.

“So a very important move has been to forge links with the amazing team at Bristol Children’s Scrapstore who have said they can find a good creative use for the items we are discarding.

“We’re also going to be sending the Scrapstore the fairly large cardboard tubes that the paper we use to line our exam couches are wrapped around – I’m sure they’ll be much in demand for modelling of various sorts.”

Two of Karla’s colleagues, Jen Nisbett and Corrina Gibbons, have created a piece of craft-work herself (pictured) entitled ‘Blastocyst’, featuring rubber bungs and the tubes in which needles for laboratory work are delivered. A blastocyst is the cluster of dividing cells formed about five to six days after a sperm fertilizes an egg.

The BCRM team is also investigating other ways to lessen their impact on the environment: for example, using items with less packaging where choices are available, turning off pieces of equipment when not in use, and being more mindful of waste management.

“We’re also planning a change to lab processes for 2023 that will prevent the use of around 2,000 plastic pipettes annually,” said Karla Turner.

“But there are some areas of our work, especially in the embryology lab, where delicate items arrive packaged in single-use plastics or polystyrene boxes, so generating a certain amount of waste packaging material seems to be unavoidable and it’s great to see it put to good use through the Scrapstore.”

Take a break and try to solve theses puzzles

WELCOME TO YOUR FIRST HOROSCOPE OF 2023 WHATS IN-STORE FOR YOU?

Aquarius Jan 20 - Feb 18

Something you have been putting aside needs to be dealt with. The sooner you do this the better things will be for you. Remember that in any situation you have a strong enough character that you will be able to deal with most things. If you have hold-ups and obstacles, check that you are not causing these yourself.

Keywords strength and endurance

Pisces Feb 19 - Mar 20

Meeting people is quite prominent this month, both in social and other groups and gatherings. If something needs to be said or sorted now is a good time to do it. It may be a time to reflect and for decisions.

Keywords. Gatherings and decisions

Aries Mar 21 - April 19

If you are involved in meetings at this time they may not run as smoothly as you would like If the situation feels difficult remember to keep calm. You may also feel time for spring cleaning, both on the physical, and emotional levels.

Keywords. Calm and clearing

Taurus Apr 20 - May 20

Looks like changes are on the way for you. It may be a new venture or career. You may be feeling a bit restless at the moment., May be time to reflect on and some of the things you would like to achieve. You may find people keep wanting to give you their problems, but do not let yourself get involved in gossip or conflict.

Keywords changes and reflection.

Gemini May 21 - June 20

You may be feeling that things are being held up for you, or that your vitality levels are low. Spring is just around the corner and soon your energy and yourself will be feeling back to normal. If there is something complicated in your life at the moment, you will soon be able to unravel it and and let it go. Don’t be too hard on yourself, remember you can achieve more than you think.

Keywords. Letting go and remember.

Cancer June 21 - July 22

Relationships are a high point this month, as well as possible. A small refresh in the home.If something is a bit hard going at the moment, you will find that you will have the strength and endurance to go through this with relatively plain sailing.

Leo Jul 23 - Aug 22

This month pay attention to your intuition especially in regarding to situations with other people. You may need to step back from something and try and see it from a different perspective. In all situations this month try and keep calm and balanced.

Keywords. Intuition and balance

Virgo Aug 23 - Sept 22

You may be at a point where a knew interest hobby or some kind of study is on your mind.This could lead to opportunities in many directions. Just remember anything you want to achieve may involve some kind of challenges.

Keywords challenges and opportunities.

Libra Sept 23 - Oct 22

Any obstacles that have been in your way look likely to be on their way out. You may have been feeling a bit stuck in your ways of late, this could well be about to change. It may be time to think of having a break, even if it’s just for a day or so.

Keywords change and relaxation

Scorpio Oct 23 - Nov 21

It may be that time of year to go through some paperwork and to change some things that you have been putting off. A good time now for clearing and getting rid of things you don’t need both physically and emotionally. Try to be aware of being sensitive to other’s needs.

Keywords: Clearing and sensitivity

Sagittarius Nov 22 - Dec 21

This month is just the right time to start sorting other things out you have been putting off. You may feel I need to have a revamp in your home, this may also involve a clearing for yourself emotionally. Should be a chance to get rid of all those paperwork issues too.

Keywords clearing and cleansing

Capricorn Dec 22 - Jan 19

At this time any hold-ups you have had are going to be easing. It would be good to listen more than talk at this time.Then may be things will be of value to you. Sensitivity and flexibility is something for you to be aware of this month.

keywords: Listen and sensitivity

YOUR GARDEN IN JANUARY

THE ESSENTIAL GARDENING JOBS FOR JANUARY

The garden in January needs to be prepared for all sorts of weathers, and if you’ve been following our advice over the last few months, your hard work is done for now.

Most plants are dormant this month as they sleep through the cold weather, but there are still a few things to do in the garden. Spring is just around the corner and work can be done to prepare for the warmth of the new season.

When its not too cold, beds and borders can be dug over and lawn edges can be repaired and re-shaped. Don’t forget to keep feeding the birds, as food is scarce for them over the winter.

PROTECT PLANTS

January is known for cold frosts and bitter winds so plants will need protecting.

If you haven’t already done so, ensure protective fleeces are in place on tender plants over-wintering outdoors.

Lift containers up onto pot feet – if water isn’t draining away the soil can become water logged.

Wet compost can rot roots and cause pots to crack in frost.

Remove snow from tree and shrub branches by knocking with a broom. Even a small amount of snow can add a lot of weight to branches, causing them to snap.

DIG OVER BARE GROUND

Run a fork through your vegetable patch or flower beds. This will help to aerate – getting air into the soil is important because plant roots need oxygen.

Choose a dry day when the soil isn’t too wet. Don’t break your back breaking down large lumps of soil.

Keeping them large can help air circulate and any later frosts will break them up.

FEED THE BIRDS

Natural food sources for birds are in short supply during the winter. Give them a helping hand by putting food out for them. Keep the food topped up but not full all the time – little and often is best.

PLANT OF THE MONTH HELLEBORUS

Why should you plant them?

Popular because they flower in cold winter and early spring, Hellebores herald the start of the New Year bringing a touch of colour to the garden.

Commonly know as ‘ Christmas Roses’ they are easy to grow and very hardy.

They produce attractive flowers and their leaves create a perfect evergreen backdrop to spring flowering bulbs.

How should you plant them?

Plant in shady herbaceous borders and the areas between deciduous shrubs to give an early splash of colour.

Happy in dappled shade they should be planted in rich, heavy soil that won’t dry out in the summer. ideal planting companies include Snowdrops, Primrose, Cornus and Mahonia