Emersons Green Voice December 2020/January 2021 combined edition

emersonsgreenvoice

December, 2020/January 2021Edition—Issue48

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FREE EVERY MONTH IN EMERSONS GREEN, LYDE GREEN, SHORTWOOD & PUCKLECHURCH Singing bus driver lightens gloom Bus driver Roger Brady, who performs as Jah Garvey, and sometimes sings for passengers on the late night 48 and 49 route has seen his songs become a YouTube sensation.

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Covid vaccine effort under way Pupils at Mangotsfield Church of England Primary School made decorations as part of the school’s Ho Ho Ho Day to kick off the festive season. See how it and other schools are celebrating Christmas in a time of coronavirus restrictions on pages 4 & 5

Police raid pub cannabis farm SEVEN people have been arrested and “several hundred” of cannabis plants found by police who raided an empty Pucklechurch pub.

The cannabis factory was found on December 6 at the Fleur de Lis in Shortwood Road, which has been closed since March this year.

The pub is the subject of a planning battle, with a bid to build eight homes in the car park submitted in November, as developers appeal against the

refusal of a previous scheme for nine homes.

An Avon and Somerset police spokesman said seven men had been arrested. Crime scene investigators remained at the pub more than a day after the discovery. Police told the Voice that the number of plants discovered was so large that investigators were unable to give a precise number, but that “several hundred” had been found.

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emersonsgreenvoice Publisher Gary Brindle 0117 907 8585 07799 461169 Follow us on Twitter @ emersonsgreenvoice

Journalist Linda Tanner 0777 0700579 Journalist Ken McCormick 07715 770377

ADVERTISING sales@emersonsgreenvoice. co.uk Tel: 0117 907 8585 Tel 07799 461169 EDITORIAL news@emersonsgreenvoice. co.uk Letters to the publication can be sent to the above e-mail address or by post to Letters, Emersons Green Voice, 6 Elkstone Walk, Bitton, Bristol BS30 6JT. The editor reserves the right to edit your letter.

DEADLINES February edition deadline is January 13.

LOCAL INFORMATION South Gloucestershire Council www.southglos.gov.uk 01454 868009 Police www.avonandsomersetpolice.uk general enquiries: 101 Emergency: 999 Fire www.avonfire.gov.uk General enquiries: 0117 926 2061 Emergency: 999

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01454 868582 Streetcare/litter/vandalism etc streetcare@southglos.gov.uk Environment/trading standards 01454 868001 Well Aware Health and social care information www.wellaware.org.uk Tel: (freephone) 0808 808 5252

December, 2020

MerryChristmasfrom

EmersonsGreen Voice

MERRY Christmas everyone!

It has been a difficult year for us all, and one that many will be glad to see the back of. Twelve months ago, who could have guessed the tragedies, anguish, disruption, hardship and restrictions which were to transform our lives in 2020?

All of us in Emersons Green, Lyde Green, Shortwood and Pucklechurch have shared the troubles that brought normal life to a halt across the country, as lockdowns were launched to try and halt the spread of coronavirus.

As in so many other places, lives have been lost, people have lost their jobs and some are now living with the effects of 'long Covid'.

Emersons Green Voice, like so many other businesses, had to suspend publication during lockdown and communicate with others online.

But through it all, the spirit and determination of people in our communities have shone through. We saw it in lockdown, from the support for the NHS to the help offered to those in need.

As our pages show today, people are still doing amazing things in our communities – from Arthur Stone's incredible fundraising after meningitis almost claimed his life, to the efforts of the Winter Windowland organisers to bring everyone closer together at a time when there are limits to what we can do even to celebrate Christmas.

Here's hoping that 2021 will be a year of hope and brighter days.

PUBLISHER’S NOTE Emersons Green Voice is independent.

We cannot take responsibility for content or accuracy of adverts, and it is advertisers’ responsibility to conform to all relevant legislation. We cannot vouch for any services offered. Opinions are not necessarily those of the editor.

Fishponds Voice is distributed each month to local residents. If for some reason you do not get a copy, please get in touch or collect one from local pick-up points. Feedback is welcomed, call Gary Brindle on 0117 907 8585 or news@fishpondsvoice.co.uk.

COMPLAINTS Despite our best efforts, we sometimes get things wrong. We always try to resolve issues informally at first but we also have a formal complaints procedure. If you have a complaint about anything in the Emersons Green Voice, contact the publisher using the details below. We aspire to follow the Code of Conduct of the NUJ (National Union of Journalists), which holds journalists to a high standard of behaviour.

Further details of the complaints process can be found on the Voice website here, or can be obtained by contacting the Publisher.

NHS 111 Safer Stronger team sscg@southglos.gov.uk 01454 868009 Anti social behaviour team asbreporting@southglos.gov.uk

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December, 2020

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n NEWS

Seven arrests as police find cannabis plants haul From Page 1 Electricity distribution firm Western Power was called in after it was found that the power supply had been tampered with.

The seven men, aged between 22 and 40, were released under investigation on December 8, having all been arrested on suspicion of producing a class B drug.

The police spokesperson said: "The investigation is ongoing."

The Voice understands that six of the men were arrested at the scene but the seventh fled and was caught later in the day elsewhere in the village. One man needed medical treatment after injuring himself trying to run away.

Police are asking anyone with information about the cannabis factory to call 101 and quote the crime reference number 5220 273 988. Information can also be given anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

The raid comes as plans to build eight new three-bedroom houses around the pub, knocking down its restaurant area and removing the beer garden in the process, have been submitted to South Gloucestershire Council.

Under Brislington-based developer UKS Group’s plans, the overall trading area of the pub would be halved, with the intention of it becoming a “more traditional vertical drinking establishment”, relying on alcohol sales rather than meals.

The number of car parking spaces for the pub would fall from 29 to four - with 18 spaces allocated to the homes and seven lost to the housing development.

One part of the plans indicates that the four parking spaces are “retained for conversion of (the pub) to

Police at the Fleur de Lis on December 7

residential unit”. Storage for 16 bikes would be created.

In their statement proposing the plans, agents Stokes Morgan Planning said the scheme would bring: • economic benefits, providing building jobs, increased council tax revenue and new customers for local businesses; payments to the council including new homes bonus, and spending on weekly goods at local shops and businesses by the residents; • social benefits by providing housing “for local people with connections to the area, allowing them to maintain contact with family and friends”, as well as support for local institutions; • environmental benefits through efficient use of “brownfield land”, improving drainage by removing the car park surface and improving the character of the village conservation area, and providing modern, more energy efficient homes.

The agents say South Gloucestershire Council had agreed the site was “suitable for redevelopment” even as it refused a previous plan for nine homes, which the developer is appealing against. They insist that the scale and design of the development would not detract from the Grade I-listed Thomas a Becket Church nearby.

The agents said: “It is clear from the proposed plans that the nature of the Fleur de Lys would change considerably, with the demolition of the restaurant area, and the reversion to a more traditional vertical drinking establishment.

“With less of an emphasis on food, the Fleur de Lys is more likely to serve a local demographic than those travelling from further afield by car. Pucklechurch is a small village and the site is therefore

within walking distance for the likely majority of its clientele.

“And it is not presumptuous to say that the majority of the clientele are going to be there to consume alcoholic beverages, and really should not be driving there as a result.”

As the Voice went to print, the council had published comments from five residents on the plans, one in support and four objecting on grounds including road safety, parking and questioning the need for more development. One said if double-yellow lines were added in Shortwood Road as part of the scheme it would “kill the business of the shop and post office”.

To view and comment on the plans, visit the planning section of South Gloucestershire Council’s website and search for application P20/23558/F. People who are not online should contact the council on 01454 868004.

How the proposed homes in the car park could look

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December, 2020

n NEWS

Schools find new ways to celebrate

Emersons Green Primary School Year 2 class prepare for their nativity

Mangotsfield Primary School pupils make wreaths and snowflakes

SCHOOLS are working out new ways to celebrate Christmas as the coronavirus pandemic continues to affect all aspects of life.

Traditional whole school nativities and pantomimes

year groups means staff need to come up with innovative ways of bringing their communities together.

All the while, schools are having to handle the disruption that comes when Covid-19 cases

with audiences are out. Gone, too, are festive fairs, where parents mingle with staff over a glass of mulled wine and a mince pie. Even within schools, dividing children into bubbles to minimise mixing between

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are confirmed, meaning that close contacts or entire ‘bubbles’ have to self-isolate.

Those affected over the course of the term include the area’s secondary schools, Downend School and Mangotsfield School,

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emersonsgreenvoice

December, 2020 and several primaries.

At Emersons Green Primary School, some bubbles have had to close during the term but children who have had to learn remotely from home have come back “unfazed, happy and ready to learn”.

School admin assistant Meryl Grimshaw said: “Christmas at school is definitely affected by Covid-19 protocols we need to have in place, for example the lack of visitors to the school site, especially parents for the Christmas productions.

“Whilst this is affecting the fundraising efforts of our wonderful PTFA, we are trying our hardest to keep everything as normal as possible for the children.”

This year’s Christmas discos will be for each class rather than each key stage, and Christmas lunch is also being spread across multiple sittings on multiple days.

With parents and carers unable to attend any festive events, the challenge is how to involve them.

At Emersons Green the Year 2 nativity will be filmed and shared with parents via Google Classroom.

“As the saying goes, the show must go on,” said Meryl.

At Mangotsfield Primary the whole school kicked off the festive season with a ‘Ho Ho Ho Day’, making crafts, decorations and window displays, with Year 5 and 6 pupils welcomed into school with some fake snow.

Key Stage 1 leader Jo Sihag said: “Christmas has definitely arrived at Mangotsfield Primary School.”

Reception pupils are recording a nativity show

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Pucklechurch Primary School pupils prepare their nativity which will be shared with parents online, as will the older children’s performances of Christmas songs.

At Pucklechurch Primary School, covid restrictions mean the traditional nativity and church Christmas carol service have changed: the key stage one nativity is being filmed, as are older pupils’ performances of stories and Christmas songs.

The school’s collective worship takes place via live video, with pupils learning Makaton sign language instead of singing.

Instead of one Christmas lunch, each year group will have its own in the hall through the

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last week of term, followed by a virtual visit from Santa, a film and party.

Year 3 teacher Sophia Miller said: “The children have been fantastic embracing new changes during these difficult times, and always surprise us at how flexible they are.

“It has certainly been a more challenging time for our school but we have been overwhelmed by the hard work of the children and support of the parents.”

Mangotsfield School’s Virtual Winter Concert will be shown on the school’s YouTube channel. As well as students’ performances, staff have recorded a version of The 12 Days of Christmas for the concert.

The school has also created a Festive Door competition for its Twitter page @mangotsfieldsch.

At Barley Close School, technology is bringing both the children and parents together.

Head teacher Jo Williams said a virtual carol singing assembly will be held and the reception, Year 1 and Year 2 are recording separate “bubble nativities”, which will be shared with parents online.

She added: “Instead of the usual one, this year we will have three!”

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n NEWS

Meningitis can't crush Arthur's spirit CHRISTMAS 2019 was very nearly Arthur Stone's last.

The morning after Boxing Day he was rushed to Bristol Children's Hospital with meningococcal septicaemia, a form of bacterial meningitis.

Arthur, from Staple Hill, was put into an induced coma while his body battled the virus. His hands and feet and much of his body turned black where the septicaemia had spread.

After more than a week he woke up – but although he had survived the disease, it had claimed his legs below the knee and parts of his fingers, and left him in pain.

Arthur faced a long period of treatment and rehabilitation.

It was not until February that he was well enough to have the operation to amputate his lower legs and he had further operations, treatment and physiotherapy before he was finally able to return home in

Arthur Stone and school friend Solomon Short with their medals and superhero costumes after finishing the Team Stone-Short Winter Wonderwheels Challenge. Picture: Lisa Whiting Photography March – on the day after the coronavirus lockdown started.

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Arthur and his family – mum Serena Askew, dad Alex Stone and sisters Zelda and Nancy – turned to LimbPower.

The disability charity introduced them to other families who had been through similar experiences, including children, who messaged Arthur personally, and parents, physiotherapists and artificial limb experts who contacted his mum and dad to offer support and advice.

The charity showed Arthur's family they were "not alone", so in return the seven-year-old Staple Hill Primary School pupil decided to raise money for the charity.

Superhero fan Arthur, his three-year-old sisters and school friend Solomon Short came up with the Winter Wonderwheels Challenge, aiming to travel a total of 20km (around 12 1/2 miles) by wheelchair, scooter and on foot.

They set a fundraising target of £300 – but as word of the challenge and Arthur's story spread, donations flooded in.

As the Voice went to print the total had topped £10,000, including online donations of more than £9,700 from around 400 people, with gift aid of almost £2,000.

Team Stone-Short did part of the challenge in Page Park, with the final lap taking place at the end of November at his school.

Classmates made superhero masks, and Solomon and Arthur wore superhero costumes as they

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went through the finishing tape together.

Arthur said: "I can’t believe how much we’ve raised for LimbPower, I never imagined in my wildest dreams we’d get to over £10,000!"

Serena said: "Not only are we blown away by the amount raised but also by the support and love shown by the local community and even further afield.

"There have been so many lovely messages of encouragement, it has turned something that was initially very daunting in to a really positive experience, and Arthur’s confidence has soared.

"It’s still very painful to recount the early days of Arthur’s illness - it came on so fast and with no real warning. To watch him lying there, fighting for his life as the sepsis spread over his body, is something I couldn’t have imagined in my worst nightmares: it is the most horrific thing. Aside from the loss of his legs the damage to his body meant we couldn’t even hug him for weeks. Alex and I were still changing wound dressings in August.

"Bristol Children’s Hospital saved Arthur’s life, not only the amazing nurses and doctors but also the hospital school, housekeeping and his play therapist.

"Saying that, we were desperate to get home and be a family again with the girls, who have been heroes throughout this whole thing. We managed to get out the day after lockdown and celebrate their third birthday all together. I will never forget the first morning, all of us snuggled in our bed together and safe."

Babies are now routinely given a meningitis B vaccine. But children born before September 2015 were not vaccinated and the government has no 'catch-up' programme for older children.

Serena has learned of at least three other children who caught meningitis B over the same Christmas period when Arthur fell ill and also had to have amputations also. She wants more parents to be aware of the risks, adding: "It is more common than you think."

To donate to the appeal, visit justgiving.com/fundraising/ serena-dawn-askew

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December, 2020

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n NEWS

Test site opens as Covid-19 deaths rise A MOBILE Covid-19 testing station is operating in Mangotsfield, as vaccinations begin and deaths from the virus in South Gloucestershire pass 200.

Cleve Rugby Football Club’s Hayfields ground in Cossham Street is one of two drivethrough sites in the district that opened in mid-November.

Mobile testing units like the one in Mangotsfield are set up on a short-term basis and can be moved at a week’s notice.

Tests are available by appointment only, to people who have symptoms or have been advised to take one, and can be booked by calling 119.

Saliva tests can give a result in less than 30 minutes are being offered to students who are not showing any symptoms of Covid-19 at SGS College in Stoke Gifford, in a pilot scheme expected to lead to wider community testing across the district, with a local contact

The mobile Covid-19 testing centre at Cleve RFC's ground.

Picture: Michael Bell tracing service also being launched.

It comes as the first coronavirus vaccinations have been given to patients at Southmead Hospital, with GP surgeries in the area expected to start offering jabs to elderly residents from December 14.

The weekly number of new cases being recorded in the Emersons Green area, and across South Glos as a whole, had fallen below the national average as the Voice went to print.

The overall number of cases in South Glos in the week to December 2 was 390, giving the district a case rate of 136.8 per 100,000, compared with the England average of 148.7. That was down from 871 cases four weeks earlier, when the rolling case rate topped 300.

Figures from the Office for National Statistics showed that Emersons Green had 17 new confirmed cases in the week to December 2, equivalent to 140 per 100,000 people. In

Pucklechurch & Westerleigh there were 18 confirmed cases, a rate of 160. In Mangotsfield there were 7 new confirmed cases over the same week, while in the two ONS areas covering Downend there were a total of 24.

Since the start of the pandemic there have been 6,557 confirmed Covid-19 cases in South Gloucestershire, giving the area, which is currently in Tier 3 of the government’s restrictions, a below average case rate of 2,300 per 100,000 - or around one in every 43 people.

But the total number of South Glos residents who have died with the virus has now reached 214, after 43 deaths were recorded in the six weeks to November 27. Fifteen deaths were recorded in the last of those weeks: five in care homes and ten in hospitals. That followed a seven-week period in which no deaths involving Covid-19 had been recorded.

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n NEWS AN “empathetic and compassionate” police officer has been given a final warning after befriending a vulnerable woman accused of harassing her ex.

But PC Jonny Wall’s actions were not sexually motivated, a misconduct panel found.

The officer, who was based in Emersons Green during the incident last year, was described as “perfectly the wrong officer” to help the suicidal woman, who had been accused of harassment after her relationship ended.

After meeting the “heartbroken” woman, named only as Miss A at the hearing, he started a lengthy conversation via texts and Instagram messages because he thought he could solve her problems.

The panel found that the officer ended up as a “gobetween” between Miss A and the former partner who had accused her of harassment, referred to as Mr B – but the officer’s actions were not sexually motivated.

PC Wall, who has 20 years’ experience, was handed a final written warning for his

December, 2020

PC who was ‘perfectly the wrong officer’ gets warning misconduct by the panel.

Panel chair Anna Vigars told the hearing at the Avon and Somerset Police HQ in Portishead on October 30: “PC Wall said he was happy to help because of their military backgrounds and he had been depressed himself. He accepted he shouldn’t have made contact on Instagram.

“He found himself in a situation made by his own conduct. His initial contact with Miss A was unnecessary and wholly ill-advised.

“We’re completely satisfied there was never any intention to seek to build a sexual relationship – but he wrongly saw himself as someone who could solve her problems.

“He is someone of huge empathy and compassion. He is able to defuse situations with

warmth and humanity. We have no doubt that’s what he intended to do.

“However, PC Wall was perfectly the wrong officer for Miss A, because he thought he could be the person to save her from herself.”

Ms Vigars said the officer should have known that contacting the vulnerable woman on Instagram was totally inappropriate and risked discrediting the police force.

Despite initially advising against contacting Mr B, PC Wall suggested that she wrote a letter to him but did not send it. At her request he called to ask if Mr B would accept it so they could have “closure”.

When the officer was “no longer able to help”, Miss A went to confront Mr B. Miss A made numerous

threats to take her own life.

Explaining his actions, PC Wall told the hearing: “This chap [Mr B] had promised her the world. They’d had a fantastic 10 days and he just ended it without reason. I could relate to it. I felt sorry for her.

“I thought if I could impart some wisdom it could only be a good thing.

“I joined the police service to help people. I wanted to give her peace of mind.”

Defending, Ramin Parkooh said: “There’s no lack of integrity – just bad judgment with good intentions.”

Ms Vigars said a final written warning was necessary to restore public confidence in the police force.

By Stephen Sumner, Local Democracy Reporting Service

WE ARE HAVING A NEW SCHOOL BUILT READY TO MOVE IN DURING 2021-22 CONTINUES TO BE A GOOD SCHOOL - NOVEMBER 2019 ‘Elm Park is a happy and friendly school’ ‘Pupils love learning because teachers make it fun’

01454 866750 email: elmparkprimary@sgmail.org.uk Is your child due to start school next September?

ELM PARK PRIMARY SCHOOL

Reception Open Afternoons

Please contact the school office to book a socially distanced tour

Inspiring Learners, Enriching Lives, Achieving Together We would love to welcome you to Elm Park.

Come along and enjoy a guided tour led by our Head Teacher and Reception Class Teacher. See our wonderful school and let us show off the amazing learning opportunities we provide.

‘Elm Park is a happy and friendly school - Pupils love learning because teachers make it fun.

• The Early Years is a welcoming and interesting place for children to learn.

• Staff care deeply about their pupils and are sensitive to their needs.

• Leaders and teachers share a passion for igniting pupils’ enthusiasm and nurturing talents’ OfSTED November 2019

Please contact us by phone 01454 866750 or email elmparkprimary@sgmail.org.uk to book a place for one of our open mornings.

If you are unable to make the dates/times above, please contact us and we will find an alternative time to show you around.

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New Headteacher The governors are pleased to announce that Carol Bond has been appointed the permanent Headteacher of Elm Park School.

Mrs Bond has been part of The Elm Park community for ten years, most recently as Acting Head and she is delighted to be the permanent Headteacher, leading Elm Park through its next exciting phase.

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December, 2020

9

n NEWS

Working together to keep path safe CYCLISTS are organising and police taking action after a series of attacks on the Bristol and Bath Railway Path.

Incidents reported to police and shared on residents’ and cyclists’ Facebook groups in recent weeks include sexual assaults and harassment, robberies, threats and the placing of tree branches and nails on the path.

Police have arrested a 13-year-old boy in relation to a sexual assault and other incidents reported in Fishponds, and are calling on path users to report all incidents to them.

Most of the reported incidents have been happening in the early evening and many have been centred on two areas – the old Mangotsfield station, where the path divides between Emersons Green, Warmley and Staple Hill, and the stretch near Morrisons in Fishponds.

They include: • A man robbed of an electric scooter at knifepoint on November 19 near Mangotsfield station.

• Branches thrown on to the path near Mangotsfield station on November 12 and 16 as cyclists approached. In the second incident a cyclist was threatened with rape when she shouted at a teenage boy hiding in bushes nearby.

• Roof felt nails scattered on the path between Mangotsfield and Warmley stations on November 15.

• A teenage boy robbed of his bike after being pushed off near Morrisons in Fishponds on November 25 • A woman chased and sexually assaulted while riding her bike past Morrisons on November 25 and 26.

• A cyclist knocked off his bike, suffering a fractured shoulder and broken ribs, by the Whitehall Primary School crossing on December 1.

An Avon and Somerset police spokesperson said a “problem solving plan” had been introduced in response to public

James Cleeton of transport charity Sustrans with his wife Pippa and son Jasper on the Bristol and Bath Railway Path as cyclists rode the path in a show of solidarity on December 5 concerns, adding: “Working with local partners including Sustrans and Bristol City Council, measures include targeted high-visibility patrols and days of action, bike marking days and an emphasis on information sharing between Bristol East and South Glos neighbourhood policing teams, both of which cover the length of the path.”

Ward councillor Ian Boulton said that while there had been problems with crime and anti-social behaviour on the path before, the recent level of anecdotal reports from the Staple Hill and Mangotsfield section was “unprecedented”.

But he said the number of reports to police did not match levels reported on social media and added: “It is vital that everyone with any information, either as a victim or a witness, calls the police in order to help them put the jigsaw pieces together.

“This will help them to see the whole picture and bring this small group of young

men, who are causing so much upset and distress and only seem to be getting bolder in their behaviour, to justice.”

People are being urged to report all incidents they see on 101, or to call 999 if a crime is in progress.

Members of the Bristol Cyclists and Bristol & Bath Railway Path – OnePath Facebook groups have been sharing information about incidents and organising ways for people to team up and ride the path together for safety.

Transport charity Sustrans helps care for the path.

The charity’s South area director James Cleeton organised a socially-distanced ride on Saturday for path users to show solidarity. He said the path was “very busy” with people on bikes and on foot, with support from Easton ward councillor Afzal Shah and music from a Fishponds residents group.

HAIR DESIGNERS Craig and the team wish you all a very

Merry Christmas & Happy New Year 01179 571551

1 Willow Centre Downend Road Downend To advertise, contact Gary on 07799 461169

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10

n NEWS

Festive art trail

A TRAIL showcasing the talents of talented local artists, designers and makers has been rearranged.

The BSpoke16 Festive Trail, which is being staged across the BS16 postcode area, including Downend, Soundwell, Emersons Green and Fishponds, had to be moved from its original date in November because of the second lockdown.

With non-essential businesses allowed to reopen, the trail will take place on December 11, 12 and 13, from 10am-4pm each day. A summer trail in July, which attracted 60 exhibitors and hundreds of visitors.

December's event involves 80 local makers – a printed map to locate them all is available from the Bean Tree Cafe in Page Park or from 28 Westerleigh Road, Downend.

More details are available on the BSpoke16 Facebook page and www.bspoke16.co.uk.

‘Get a move on’ call Chemical problem over new schools SUPPORTERS of a new secondary and primary schools for Lyde Green were being made to wait for government approval as the Voice went to print.

Plans for the school buildings have been drawn up by South Gloucestershire Council and are awaiting a decision from a council planning committee.

But for the scheme to go ahead, the Department for Education has to approve funding under its Free Schools Programme.

Two providers, SGS Academy Trust and Castle School Educational Trust, made applications to the DfE more than a year ago, under the latest wave of free school bids, and earlier this year the DfE said a decision on the funding would be announced in the autumn.

However as winter arrives, the DfE was unable to commit

to any date for a decision when asked by the Voice.

The council says it wants to see a 900-place secondary school and a 420-place primary school open by September 2022.

Kingswood MP Chris Skidmore and Thornbury & Yate MP Luke Hall, whose constituencies both include parts of Lyde Green, wrote to Education Secretary Gavin Williamson at the end of November to ask for his support for the new schools.

The MPs, who met Mr Williamson during the autumn, said: "As it has been recognised, time is also of the essence as the first pupils to have been educated at the current Lyde Green Primary School are set to move to a secondary setting in September 2022. We strongly feel we need to act now to meet this urgent demand."

FIREFIGHTERS were called to deal with a chemical spill at an Emersons Green warehouse.

Avon Fire and Rescue Service was called to the warehouse in Longmead Road, between the Avon Ring road and Westerleigh Road, shortly after 12.20pm on November 23.

Three fire crews, from Yate, Patchway and Kingswood, were called in after a container of hydrogen peroxide, which is used a bleach and antiseptic, had split and was leaking onto the floor area of the warehouse.

A fire service spokesman said firefighters wore breathing apparatus as they used a hose and jet to dilute the chemical to a “safe solution”.

There were no reports of any casualties.

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emersonsgreenvoice

December, 2020

11

n ADVERTISING FEATURE

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Vacancy on the Town Council!

Emersons Green Town Council needs a new team member! Do you have a knowledge of, and interest in, local affairs? If you think you would like to represent your community and are over 18 years of age, you may be interested in joining us…

What is a Town Councillor?

Councillors are elected to represent an individual geographical area on the council, known as a ward or parish. The current vacancy is to represent the Emersons Green Ward. Councillors are generally elected by the public every four years, but there is currently a Co-option space available on the Town Council as a former councillor has resigned their position.

What do councillors do?

Speed limit bin stickers – what do you think?

The Town Council is aware of residents’ concerns regarding speeding in the 20mph zones in Emersons Green and Lyde Green.

1.

Decision making – Through meetings and attending committees with other elected members, councillors decide which activities to support, where money should be spent, what services should be delivered and what policies should be implemented.

2.

Monitoring – Councillors make sure that their decisions lead to efficient and effective services by keeping an eye on how well things are working.

3.

Getting involved locally – As local representatives, councillors have responsibilities towards their constituents and local organisations. These responsibilities and duties often depend on what the councillor wants to achieve and how much time is available, and may include:

The Town Council are considering purchasing 20mph stickers that would be made available for residents to stick to their refuse bins, to remind drivers of the speed limit in force.

Going to meetings of local organisations Going to meetings of bodies affecting the wider community Taking up issues on behalf of members of the public

Do you think this is a good idea?

Would you be interested in requesting a sticker?

• • •

Whilst South Gloucestershire Council is responsible for highways, including the placement of speed signage, the Town Council is keen to help reduce the prevalence of speeding if it can.

Please let us know by completing the poll available by scanning the QR code to the left.

How much time does it take up?

Quite often councillors say that their duties occupy them for about an hour a week. Obviously there are some councillors who spend more time than this – and some less, but in the main, being a Town Councillor is an enjoyable way of contributing to your community and helping to make it a better place to live and work.

INTRODUCING… Councillor Pat Morgan Pat joined Emersons Green Town Council in 2013 and represents the Emersons Green Ward. Pat is a strong supporter of our local community and a very active Member of the Council, sitting on the Planning, Open Spaces and Events Committees. Pat devotes a lot of time and energy to the Council.

Before retiring at 70, Pat worked as a Nurse Auxiliary on the on the Neuro Surgical Ward at Frenchay Hospital for 26 years and a further two years as a Nurse Auxiliary in the Macmillan Unit.

Pat has lived in the area since 1964 and raised her family here. She has many interests including wildlife photography, gardening and crafting.

Pat has always enjoyed working with, and helping, people and saw joining the Town Council as an opportunity to continue supporting the local community.

The poll details are also on our website and Facebook page.

Councillors should be able to attend, as a minimum, monthly meetings of the Town Council which normally take place on the evening of the second Thursday of each month As a councillor representing your community you will help keep it a great place to live and work. You will be supported in your role and will be expected to undertake training. You should be comfortable working electronically. You should have a positive outlook and a can-do attitude and will be willing to work as part of a team.

How do I apply?

If after reading this notice you are interested in applying, please complete the application form which is available on the Town Council website or Facebook pages. Alternatively, you may request a copy by emailing the Town Clerk using the above details.

Any nominees should not canvass council members as this could prejudice the outcome of the co-option process and may result in disqualification. If you have any queries or would like further information, please contact the Town Clerk who will be happy to assist on clerk@emersonsgreen-tc.gov.uk.

The closing date for applications is 5.00pm on Wednesday 6 January 2021.

Members will receive applications and consider the co-option at the Full Council meeting on Thursday 14 January 2021.

emersonsgreenvoice

December, 2020

13

n NEWS

Health chief says sorry to Oliver’s family

THE chief executive of a health body has issued an unreserved apology for mistakes made during an investigation into the death of Emersons Green teenager Oliver McGowan.

But after the apology was made during a public meeting in early December, it emerged that the 18-year-old student's parents, Paula and Tom, had not received any apology directly.

Oliver died at Southmead Hospital in November 2016 after being given anti-psychotic drugs following his admission for an epileptic seizure, despite him and his parents telling staff he had previously had an adverse reaction.

A review into his death by the South Gloucestershire Clinical Commissioning Group was found to be flawed, mismanaged and unacceptably slow, an independent panel found in October.

At a public meeting on December 1, Julia Ross, the chief executive of the CCG's successor

Oliver McGowan, who died in Southmead Hospital organisation, the Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire CCG, was asked if the body would apologise to the family.

She said: “I welcome the opportunity to apologise to Paula and Tom McGowan and indeed to Oliver’s brother and sister, who were deeply impacted by

Oliver’s death, but also by the process that wasn’t good enough that we went through.

“I had hoped to meet with Paula and Tom early on, when this first came to light, but I was too late. Quite understandably, by that time Paula and Tom didn’t feel they could engage with us.

“Unequivocally, I want to apologise personally to Paula and Tom, and to the family.

“We welcome this report and recognise all the recommendations (it has) made.

We’re working hard to address the issues in there.

“I’m pleased to say we’re in a different place today than we were in back then but there isn’t any excuse and we are unreservedly sorry to the whole McGowan family.”

But when the Voice contacted Paula McGowan following the meeting, she revealed that the CCG had not been in touch with the family.

She said: "This is an apology

for the press. We were not told about this meeting and they have certainly not contacted us to make this apology. I would view this as a non-apology."

Oliver had mild autism and learning difficulties, and as a result a learning disability mortality review (LeDeR) into his death was held by the CCG. But it took 17 months to complete and contained a number of inconsistencies, most notably that the answer to a question asking if Oliver's death had been avoidable was changed from 'yes' to 'no' between stages of the report.

An independent review launched by NHS England found that his death was was "potentially avoidable" and the LeDeR was "mismanaged, poorly monitored and allowed to progress without due rigour or any independent oversight".

By Stephen Sumner, Local Democracy Reporting Service

Emersons Green Town Councillors are always keen to engage with members of our community and would welcome any feedback or suggestions.

Badminton Ward (3 members) Judy Adams judy.adams@emersonsgreen-tc.gov.uk James Hunt james.hunt@emersonsgreen-tc.gov.uk Rachael Hunt rachael.hunt@emersonsgreen-tc.gov.uk Blackhorse Ward (3 members) Sadik Al-Hassan sadik.al-hassan@emersonsgreen-tc.gov.uk Phil Todd phil.todd@emersonsgreen-tc.gov.uk Catherine Wilkins catherine.wilkins@emersonsgreen-tc.gov.uk Emersons Green Ward (7 members) Stephen Bassett stephen.bassett@emersonsgreen-tc.gov.uk Simon Budd simon.budd@emersonsgreen-tc.gov.uk Caroline Johnson caroline.johnson@emersonsgreen-tc.gov.uk Pat Morgan pat.morgan@emersonsgreen-tc.gov.uk Matthew Palmer matt.palmer@emersonsgreen-tc.gov.uk John Sweeney john.sweeney@emersonsgreen-tc.gov.uk VACANCY Pomphrey Ward (3 members) Sally Hill sally.hill@emersonsgreen-tc.gov.uk Rich Nichols rich.nichols@emersonsgreen-tc.gov.uk Dave Somers dave.somers@emersonsgreen-tc.gov.uk

07860 181228 07525 150102 07860 181315 07815 326187 0117 9569887 07963 194914 07753 613481 0117 9492935 07798 660373 07847 821410 07738 589329 07944 873664 0117 9575822 07814 698276 0117 9109620

Due to the current Covid-19 situation, Emersons Green Town Council offices are closed to walk-in visitors.

Staff are available on email, or via phone to answer any queries.

If you would like to visit staff at the office, please email or phone in advance to make an appointment.

Tel: 0117 3026989 clerk@emersonsgreen-tc.gov.uk www.emersonsgreen-tc.gov.uk 198 Westerleigh Road, Emersons Green, BS16 7AN

All Town Council meetings are open to members of the public and are currently held remotely by Zoom or Skype. Please see our website for meeting agendas, including joining instructions, or contact us on clerk@emersonsgreen-tc.gov.uk Full Council meeting 7.00pm 10 December Planning Committee meeting 10.30am 7 December

To advertise, contact Gary on 07799 461169

Finance Committee 7.00pm 17 December Planning Committee 21 December

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Got News? Call Linda On 0777 0700579

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December, 2020

15

n NEWS

Jake aims for record-breaking display A STAPLE Hill teenager who decked his home in lights in memory of his sister is hoping to set new records this year.

Jake Skinner is raising money for national cancer charity Macmillan Cancer Support by covering the outside of his house in Crossfield Road with Christmas lights in memory of his sister Stacie, who was 17 when she died from anaphylactic shock on Christmas Day 2015.

Stacie used to decorate her desk at work with Christmas lights and when the lights were returned to the family, Jake had the idea to remember her through the lights each Christmas.

This will be Jake’s third year of raising money with his festive display and this year's display, which was switched on at the end of November, is his biggest yet.

It also looks set to beat his previous fundraising record of £2,500: he has set a target of £3,000 this year and his online donation page had passed

Jake Skinner with Macmillan Cancer Support's Kaeti Morrison outside his Staple Hill light display.

£2,300 as the Voice went to print.

Jake decided to raise money for Macmillan because of the support his nan received when she was diagnosed with cancer. So far, he has raised £4,900 since he started his first fundraiser for the charity, which provides emotional, financial and clinical support for people living

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Jake’s dad Jeff said: "We are all incredibly proud of Jake and all of the effort and dedication he puts into the light display each year.

"Despite not being able to do an official switching on, Jake is determined to raise as much as possible this year, as we all know how important the work of

Macmillan is."

Jake won the Enterprise Hero Award in last year's Bristol Young Hero Awards in recognition of his fundraising.

Macmillan fundraising manager Kaeti Morrison said: “Jake is an amazing young man and we can’t thank him and his family enough for raising money for Macmillan during the pandemic, when our income has dropped but our support is needed more than ever before.

“His Christmas displays are a wonderful way to remember his sister Stacie, at a time which much be really difficult for the family.

"We are so grateful to Jake and hope everyone passing enjoys seeing the lights this year.”

To donate to Jake’s festive light display fundraiser visit justgiving.com/fundraising/ JakesChristmasLights.

For more information about Macmillan call 0300 1000 200 or visit macmillan.org.uk.

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Got News? Call Linda On 0777 0700579

16

emersonsgreenvoice

December, 2020

Christmas

services & events

HelpandhopethisChristmas THIS December at Grace Church Downend there’s something for all ages to enjoy. Three teams of volunteers have been working hard on three different projects to bring help and hope to the local community over Christmas.

The first of these teams has filmed a special online video called ‘Christmas Hope in a Covid World’ that includes traditional carols, drama, a seasonal choir and a short Christmas message of hope for all ages.

The second team has created a fun-packed video especially for children that explores the exciting events of the very first Christmas - with eye-witness accounts from the original residents of Bethlehem and some of their animals too, and a Christmas craft for children to join in with at home.

The third team of volunteers are making and distributing over 100 seasonal food packages

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to those most in need of help this December.

This includes 80 parcels that will be distributed with the help of Stanbridge Primary School and Christchurch Infant & Junior Schools and a number of additional packages especially designed for the elderly and those who are going to be alone over Christmas.

Alongside these three projects, members of Grace Church have also been supporting the ‘Winter Wonder Bags’ initiative that is run by the East Bristol Children’s Centres.

To find out more about all that’s taking place and how you can watch online, visit www.gracechurchbristol.org.

Finally, if you’re aware of other people in need over Christmas who could benefit from a free Christmas package, please don’t hesitate to email info@gracechurchbristol.org

Email: sales@emersonsgreenvoice.co.uk

Got News? Call Jayne On 0788 0731148

emersonsgreenvoice

18

n NEWS

December, 2020

Empty plate protest at MP Chris’s office

Messages outside Chris Skidmore’s office after the MP voted against a motion calling for the free school meals scheme to be extended

Emersons Green Baptist Church Although we can’t hold our usual Christmas Eve Carol Service this year, we wish everyone a very Merry Christmas.

providing free school meals during holidays. There is no need for any child to go hungry at any time, but to do this during a global pandemic which has cost so many people their livelihoods seemed indefensible.”

Conservative Mr Skidmore said he had supported an alternative to the scheme proposed in the Labour motion.

He said: “Local councils know their communities best and where extra resource needs to be targeted to reach the most vulnerable, and this why I have voted to support extra government funding for South Gloucestershire Council, instead of expanding national programmes.

“During the recent half term, the council made use of the Emergency Assistance Grant funding and some of the extra £2 million funding from government to support local families eligible for free school meals with payment cards, as well as working with local suppliers and schools to provide food parcels. This benefited many hundreds of local children and their families who would otherwise be struggling.

“Since half-term the government has announced a further £570,000 in funding for the council to provide additional support to vulnerable children and families this winter. At least 80 per cent of the funding is earmarked to support with paying for food and bills and will cover the period to Spring 2021.”

Every child needs Christmas

Why not take a look at our short Christmas message of hope video? You can watch it on our website... www.emersonsgreenchurch.org To advertise, contact Gary on 07799 461169

PROTESTERS left empty plates with messages for Emersons Green’s MP after he voted against a bid to extend the free school meals programme.

The plates, with messages including “no child should go hungry” and “have you no compassion?” were left outside Chris Skidmore’s Kingswood constituency office after he voted against an opposition motion to fund support for children from low-income families during the school holidays.

The protest in late October came before a U-turn from Prime Minister Boris Johnson, who announced that the Government would extend the support following a high-profile campaign led by Manchester United and England footballer Marcus Rashford.

South Gloucestershire Council had already pledged that it would use Emergency Assistance Grant funding to supply food parcels for the 4,212 children in the area eligible for free school meals, and cards with £20 pre-paid to buy food at supermarkets.

Protest co-organiser Jess Sharratt said around 60 plates were attached to the door and windows of Mr Skidmore’s office by protesters, who also donated a carload of food and money to local foodbanks.

Jess said: “We thought the empty plates were a powerful statement that conveyed a clear message.

“We watched in horror as the government voted against

PEOPLE and businesses are being urged to show the gift of kindness to children in the area.

Every Child Needs Christmas (ECNC) aims to get a present out to any youngster who might not otherwise receive one.

The campaign collected and distributed 700 gifts when it began six years ago. By last year, its growing success enabled it to send 12,200 presents out into areas including South Gloucestershire.

ECNC is asking for donations of new and sealed, non-edible gifts for ages 0-16 around the £5-£7 mark. It then distributes them to children in areas with a BS postcode, including Emersons Green.

Because of Covid, the drop-off points are in Weston-superMare. But people can use the Amazon wish list link - https://amzn. to/2MBcjRL – to donate and the gift will arrive at campaign HQ.

Email: sales@emersonsgreenvoice.co.uk

Got News? Call Jayne On 0788 0731148

emersonsgreenvoice

December, 2020

19

n NEWS A FOODBANK is preparing for its biggest ever Christmas rush after seeing an 80% increase in the number of families it has helped during the autumn.

Resound Foodbank, based at the church in Blackhorse Road, is planning to make more than 100 deliveries to families in the run-up to Christmas.

Organisers expect the November lockdown to further increase the numbers needing help. Families can be referred to a foodbank by a professional such as a social worker, health visitors or Jobcentre official up to three times every six months, although for most it is a one-off.

They are given a voucher to exchange for food.

The food comes from donations and Resound's latest shopping list for supporters includes Christmas treats such as Christmas cake slices, Yule logs, Christmas pudding and crackers alongside its general items including tinned potatoes, long life milk and toilet paper.

Last year resound helped 77 families over Christmas but the expected increase this month

Foodbanks see big rise in demand as winter begins

comes at the end of a year in which demand trebled during the first lockdown and has remained higher than ever.

Donations can be brought to the Resound Centre on a Friday morning between 9.30am and noon, when the foodbank is open, or can be dropped off at collection points at Sainsbury's in Emersons Green and Lyde Green, or Lyde Green Community Centre.

For more information call 0117 305 0969 or email

resoundfoodbank@gmail.com.

Customers at Emersons Green's Sainsbury's store have been among the most generous supporters of Resound over the course of the year, donating 5.1 tonnes of food at the collection point in the supermarket between January and September.

That represented more than a third of the 14.1 tonnes of food donated during the nine-month period.

Over the past two months a new foodbank has also been set up in Emersons Green by the volunteers behind the Hack the Pandemic project to provide free personal protective equipment for key workers during lockdown.

Hack The Problem, based at Emersons Green Village Hall accepts donations on Mondays between 9-11am, Wednesdays between 3-5pm, and Fridays between 7-8pm.

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In Downend, Christ Church Infants and Juniors ran a community kitchen during the half-term holidays at the end of October to help ensure families who usually rely on free school meals would not go hungry.

Amid a national political row over funding, the head teachers of both schools wrote to families asking them to get in touch if they needed support to buy food, prompting many more families to offer donations and help.

The community kitchen, with donations from both schools (pictured), opened up at the infant school.

Head teacher Anna Martin said she was "astounded" by the generosity of families and staff, adding: "Almost all of the supplies were very gratefully collected by a range of families from school and the wider community."

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Got News? Call Linda On 0777 0700579

emersonsgreenvoice

20

December, 2020

n AROUND THE WIs SHORTWOOD WI WELL, it has been a while since we have said “hello” to everyone, and especially our fellow WI members in the area.

Sadly, this year has been eventful for all the wrong reasons but at the same time fairly uneventful for us as a WI group.

Since March, we have only managed to meet together on two occasions, while socially distancing in Diane’s garden, and luckily the weather was kind to us.

In August, we had a catch-up with drinks and cakes, and in September we had a fish and chip supper.

Luckily, the speakers who were going to visit this year have kindly agreed to postpone things until 2021 when, all being well, we will be back to normal meetings.

So, hopefully next year we will have talks planned about the Snowdonia Railway, Chernobyl Children’s Lifeline and heavenly hedgerows - all about foraging and life below stairs, among others yet to be arranged.

Our Christmas Party will be a non-event this year but we look forward to being able to get together again early next year.

We would like to finish this year by wishing everyone a very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year for 2021.

We are a friendly group and we usually meet on the second Thursday of every month at 7.30pm, in a room behind Shortwood Chapel, which is in Main Road, Shortwood.

We welcome new members to our group and if you would like any more information please email me at millhousejoinery@aol.com, heading it “WI”, please.

Lynne Miller

MANGOTSFIELD WI IN October our youngest member Bethany Tucker, who is just 29, presented a talk on her quest to become a Paralympian at the next games.

It was a thought-provoking and intense account of where she had come from and where she is today.

Bethany has overcome many challenges relating to her health and personal well-being, and it was emotional and uplifting to hear how she has coped and moved forward with her life.

She feels that her WI has been a key element in finding friends and support for her goals.

At our November meeting Carol, our president, gave an insight into her new role as Avon Federation representative for ACWW (Associated Country Women of the World). She presented ACWW’s new initiative, entitled ‘Orange the World’, a thought provoking and serious subject, concerning the ‘shadow pandemic’ and its effects on women.

For the second part of the meeting we had a Christmas quiz.

Alison, our Frome Valley Group secretary, very kindly emailed the quiz, which had us all in stitches.

Probably more to do with my presentation of it that the actual questions and answers!

We at Mangotsfield WI wish our readers a very safe Christmas; we have all sorts of challenges with family bubbles and how we manage what is usually a

To advertise, contact Gary on 07799 461169

wonderful family get-together.

I am sure you will join with me in hoping the New Year will bring a welcome respite.

If you are not a member but would like to join us, please let me know by emailing carol@applause. co.uk.

We are still following the changes in the information provided by the Government and our national federation, with a view to finding out when we might meet up again in the hall. But as we all know, it is looking pretty remote at the moment.

Carol Coombs

BEECHMERE BELLES WI CHRISTMAS started really early this year, and it’s been lovely to see the streets lit up so beautifully in our neighbourhoods, with everybody shining that extra bit of light on what has been a tough year.

November is the last meeting of the year for Beechmere Belles, as we take our month break in December. This is always such a lovely meeting, with a craft arranged and taught by a couple of our very talented members: lots of ladies sitting around creating a Christmassy “thing” whilst having a chat and catching up with each other.

We were not going to let a pandemic stop us from having this last get-together, even if it was virtually. Two members of the committee worked hard to find a craft that could be taught over Zoom and then sourced, cut and packed craft bags for the members that wanted to take part.

Craft bags were dropped through letter boxes, Christmas jumpers or headwear was donned, a little Christmas tipple was poured and we logged on for our Christmas event.

Considering we hadn’t tried craft by Zoom before it was a successful evening: we had two paper crafts to try and everybody produced at least one perfect piece. It was very entertaining, working out left from right, “is it my right or your right”, that type of thing. Our “teacher” did an amazing job as she was doing everything backwards so we could see it the right way round on the screen.

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I will admit that every parcel packed this Christmas will be having my new skill incorporated in the decoration. What I have enjoyed the most since I joined the WI is learning new crafts; I do tend to get a bit carried away though, I’m so pleased with myself that I find a way, or rather an excuse to make “just one more”.

It seems like the New Year may be more of the same when it comes to actual gatherings, but we have plans in place to continue our virtual meetings so we can still “meet”.

We were able to hold our AGM in October by having a hybrid meeting: we needed two members to be in the same house and luckily we have family members that were able to do that, and members that attended online.

All the posts were re-elected and the committee voted back in, so we are all set to go for 2021.

The downside to the hybrid meeting was no celebration cake, as October is also our Birthday month. We are always treated to one of our members’ wonderful creations: not only does it look absolutely fantastic, it tastes lovely as well. We also have a little glass of bubbles (not the type the pop man used to bring round in his van) and take up our pencils for the annual quiz.

This year after the meeting we had bingo. It was a good laugh and, I’ll be honest, I am so grateful for the members that put up with my calling skills.

I was all geared up with the list of bingo lingo - some of them are shocking - and dealing with those tiny, tiny, tiny balls was a challenge in itself. It really was a case of glasses on to read the balls, glasses off to read the lingo: at least I didn’t drop a ball - I would never have found it, with or without glasses.

I’m still waiting for a call from the local bingo hall - I’m sure when they open back up they will be beating my door down.

2020 did not go to plan for anybody but we have tried to make the best of it and are grateful that everybody is healthy, and that is the most important thing. 2021 is unknown, but that’s what New Year is all about, saying goodbye to the old and looking forward with hope to the future.

One thing is for sure: Beechmere Belles will continue.

May I wish all the members and everybody a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

Stay safe.

Got News? Call Jayne On 0788 0731148

emersonsgreenvoice

December, 2020

21

n NEWS

Jack inspires 112-mile, 24-hour run

A FUNDRAISER is taking on a gruelling running challenge in support of the region’s children’s hospice, after being inspired by a boy from Emersons Green.

Dad-of-three Paul Dennett, from Coalpit Heath, is planning to run 112 miles from London to his home in just 24 hours.

Paul, who thought up the challenge to mark his upcoming 44th birthday, is calling it the Long Run Home and will attempt it over the weekend of February 6-7 next year.

He is looking for sponsorship and donations in support of Children’s Hospice South West, a charity he has already raised more than £26,000 for over the years.

Paul is the founder of running and fitness club Active Soul UK and one of his friends in the club, Alex Bright, from Emersons Green, has been supported by CHSW’s Charlton Farm hospice at Wraxall for the past ten years.

Alex’s son Jack, 13, has Pallister-Killian syndrome, an extremely rare, life-limiting illness, and requires round the clock care.

Described as a “super-cheeky chap”, Jack enjoys visits to the hospice, particularly sessions with a music therapist, and his sister Lotte, 14, is also supported by the hospice’s sibling team.

Alex said: “I’ve always been clear with Lotte from the beginning about what the hospice is. She knew we were coming because we needed some help and that there would be children there who would be ill, and some who would die.

“Siblings of poorly children often turn into natural carers, and that’s what happened to Lotte. When we first came to Charlton Farm for respite she wouldn’t leave Jack’s side, but the sibling team have been there since day one. They have a wealth of experience to help her and she listens to them.

“She values their time and experience and they understand how she feels as a sibling of a child who may not have a long life.”

Alex says voluntary donations are vital to keep the hospice going to support families like hers, and is calling on people to donate to Paul’s fundraising challenge.

Paul Dennett at Charlton Farm She said: “Our wheels would’ve completely fallen off many, many years ago if we hadn’t had the hospice. They have been there through many of life’s ups and downs.”

Jack has been at Craig-Y-Parc School – a fulltime residential school just outside of Cardiff – since February this year.

Alex said: “I miss Jack immensely and it would be lovely to come back to Charlton Farm to stay, but obviously we can’t during the pandemic. But I know Lotte can contact the sibling team if she needs to talk or needs a listening ear. They are absolutely amazing.”

Active Soul UK contributes 50% of its monthly membership fees to CHSW. Paul will start his challenge at Trafalgar Square on February 6 next year.

He said: “Four years ago, when I started Active Soul UK, the aim was to help people get active and raise as much as we could for the charity.

“With COVID-19 our fundraising has taken a massive hit, so it’s time to put the trainers back on and get out there.

“I have never run further than 52 miles. This is the biggest challenge I will have ever done.

“Please help us raise as much money as we can for an amazing charity.”

CHSW community fundraiser Frances Kenneally said: “It costs around £11 million to run all three hospice sites each year and we rely almost entirely on

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Jack with sister Lotte in the Charlton Farm spa pool voluntary contributions to fund this vital service.

“We are so grateful for everything Paul has done and continues to do to support short

and precious lives.”

To support Paul visit his fundraising page at uk.virginmoneygiving.com/ TheLongRunHome.

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22

December, 2020

n LYDE GREEN COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION A look back at 2020 WITH 2021 nearly upon us here at Lyde Green Community Association, we have been taking a look back at a very unusual year which, despite challenging circumstances, still had plenty of positives.

With the closure of both Lyde Green Community Centre and resident café Coffee At Lyde in the lockdown of spring 2020, the team got busy behind the scenes bringing a whole new online timetable.

Community spirit was kept high, with many online events including a pet show and coffee morning drop-in sessions.

LGCA were also really keen to help emerging covid-response community action group Emersons and Lyde Green Together, and have recently provided them with a new sewing machine. This will help them to continue to sew hundreds of face masks made for donations only.

LGCC also was a hub for three

community litter picks, where over 100 bags of litter were taken off the streets and green spaces in both Lyde and Emersons Green.

We were really pleased to reopen again in September. We kicked things off with Lyde Back To Work Fair, where employment and career development support were offered free of charge – do look out

for more events like this in 2021.

Regular groups and classes were back on again, and our new manger Helen Crew joined the team getting stuck in with making LGCC a covid-secure venue.

LGCA worked closely with Lyde Green Open Space Group and Livewest to assist in the handing out of 7,000 free bulbs funded by

Livewest, and these were given to over 100 members of the community as part of the Feed The Bees initiative – look out in the early spring for all the beautiful flowers grown as a result.

Another success, with the whole community pulling together, was the crowdfunding for free school meals over the October term break.

LGCA, working in collaboration with Coffee At Lyde, hope to be able to feed as many families in need as possible for the school holidays.

We are also very excited to present our community Christmas tree, where the decorations have been provided free of charge for local children to decorate and display. Do look outside the community centre for all the brilliant art work!

It has been a tough year, but we are very much looking forward to 2021 and are always learning new ways to support the developing community here in Lyde Green.

Why not join us? We are always looking for volunteers: drop us an email on info@lydegreenca.org to get in touch.

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December, 2020

23

n NEWS

Windowland trail lights up the winter

HUNDREDS of people are transforming their front windows into bright, colourful Christmas displays to brighten the area after a dark year.

The Winter Windowland Trail has been set up by residents Nikki Holmes and Josie Vinyard – and has had an incredible response from people across the area.

Nikki and Josie formed a Facebook group asking residents to decorate their windows with creative festive scenes and include their addresses in a festive trail, which people can follow on the weekend before Christmas.

Residents of Downend, Staple Hill and Bromley Heath were invited to take part, and the group has also gathered members from Mangotsfield, Fishponds, Frenchay, Emersons Green and Kingswood, with almost 700 joining the Facebook group.

As the Voice went to print more than 100 people had submitted entries, with

imaginations running wild to create everything from snowstorms, nativity scenes and stained glass windows to a Toy Story Christmas party.

'More entries are very welcome' to: Anyone who would like to include their window on the map should contact the group on Facebook, or email nikkiholmes50@gmail.com, by December 12.

Nikki said: "We are two local mums with young families, who moved to Downend when our children were babies and later became friends at the school gates.

"We were inspired to create a pumpkin trail earlier in the year after seeing a post from a creative arts group on Facebook.

Following the success of this trail, and with the realisation that lots of festive family events were going to be cancelled this year, we decided to take on a winter trail and started the Winter Windowland Trail group.

"We have approached shops and businesses and even care homes to try to include everyone in the local community in this event, and to hopefully help people feel a bit more connected to each other at this difficult time."

After the creations are all submitted and the trail map finished, it will be made available for people to follow the trail around the area on the weekend of December 19 to 20.

As well as brightening up the run-up to Christmas, Nikki and Josie want to try and help people in need this winter by asking those following the trail to make a donation to the North Bristol

To advertise, contact Gary on 07799 461169

Foodbank when they download a trail map, and asking window creators to donate food.

To find out more about the trail and how to download a map, search for The Downend and Staple Hill Winter Windowland Trail on Facebook.

Donations can be made at

justgiving.com/fundraising/ winterwindowlandtrail.

Paper trail maps will be available from December 15 at Mel's Kitchen in Downend or The Card Shop and Bunch Florist in Staple Hill, in return for a small donation to the appeal.

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24

December, 2020

n PETER'S VISION

Less Fog Clearer Vision

New! Anti-Fog Lenses for Glasses.

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0117 962 2474

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eyecareteam@turnersopticians.co.uk www.turnersopticians.co.uk

Seeing through the fog

A

S I write this our topsy turvy times seem to be continuing.

We’re all hoping for enough normality to have the family Christmas that means so much to so many of us, as well as keeping safe too! At least the prospect of a vaccine is seemingly nearer each week that goes by, which keeps our hopes alive and now looks more like a light than just a flicker at the end of the tunnel.

Our quest for sourcing the latest technologies for you our patients continues unabated.

Those of you who regularly wear glasses will understand my excitement at this one. At last, we can look forward to wearing our glasses with the often required face mask or covering and be able to see clearly too!

This new lens, our anti-fog lens, is a super and exciting development. Whatever you wear your glasses for, we’ve now the anti fog lens for you.

Amazingly even when we hold this lens over a boiling kettle it stays fog free! Now this was just for demonstration of how amazing the lens is of course, and not something we’d recommend you try at home.

The hallelujah moment for us glasses wearers is that if the lens can stay fog free in steam it will be amazingly clear going in and out on cold or wet days, as well as when wearing a face covering. These conditions used to be the nemesis of spectacle lenses, but no more!

It was road safety week recently, a timely reminder that seeing clearly for driving is of vital importance. I appreciate that the world of routine eye checks has only recently been returning to normal, but it is our individual responsibility that we all make sure we can see clearly whatever we’re doing, particularly if our negative actions, such as driving without clear vision, could have catastrophic consequences for others too.

You & your loved ones are most welcome to come and see us whatever your eye care needs. Whether you’d like regular glasses or anti fog glasses for near, far or both, our expert teams are ready & waiting to help you! We just ask that you telephone first to book a time to come in, to help us keep you all safe. Please call our Henleaze practice on 0117 962 2474 or our Fishponds practice on 0117 965 4434.

I’ll end on a cheerful note, I sincerely hope you all have an enjoyable Christmas and a relaxing family time. My thoughts and best wishes are with all of you particularly those who, as we have, lost a loved one this year. Here’s to a bright future and a Happy 2021 for us all!

We look forward to seeing you soon!

Peter

Peter Turner is a Senior Optometrist at Turners Opticians in Bristol, and also works part time as a Senior Optometrist at the Bristol Eye Hospital.

Turners Eye Care Ltd T/A Turners Opticians Incorporated in England & Wales Reg No. 8201460

To advertise, contact Gary on 07799 461169

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emersonsgreenvoice

December, 2020

n NEWS THE West of England Combined Authority is asking people living and working in the region for their views to help shape the Spatial Development Strategy, a plan to make sure homes, employment spaces and vital transport links are planned in the right places over the next 20 years.

As the region’s population grows and as people live longer, the amount and type of housing that is needed across the West of England is changing. Covid 19 has also altered the way many people are working, travelling and spending their leisure time.

The strategy will help make sure residents have the homes they need, where they want to live with the connections to get to job opportunities, education and leisure across the region.

It offers an opportunity to plan for a cleaner, greener recovery, ensuring new development is resilient, contributes towards reducing carbon emissions, and brings improvements for nature and sustainability.

Residents and businesses can give their views via a survey on

25

Have your say on future development of the West of England region the West of England Combined Authority website.

West of England Mayor Tim Bowles said: “This Spatial Development Strategy will make sure that over the next 20 years, we are building homes in the right places so that the West of England remains a great place to live and work. Importantly, it will also make sure we are building sustainable communities that are less reliant on cars, improving our environment and connecting our residents to jobs, education, businesses and leisure facilities right across the region.”

The West of England Combined Authority is working with Bath and North East Somerset, Bristol and South Gloucestershire councils, stakeholders and residents to develop the plan.

Nicola Beech, Bristol City Council Cabinet Member for Spatial Planning and City Design,

said: “As we plan how to build a more sustainable and inclusive Bristol it’s really important that we hear what people value most. This plan will shape the west of England for years to come and so we want everyone to share what is important to them, whether that’s improving travel links, protecting green spaces, building homes, or anything else that will help us to create a more equal, sustainable and diverse region that reflects the priorities of those who live and work here.”

The survey closes on 14 December 2020.

Once the Spatial Development Strategy is agreed and published, it will form part of the ‘development plan’ alongside council’s own Local Plans and

Neighbourhood Plans which will be considered when determining planning applications across the region.

For more information and the survey visit https://www. westofengland-ca.gov.uk/ future-of-the-region/

e p a h s Help

E R U T U F THE R REGION U O F O We’re developing a Spatial Development Strategy to create a greener, more connected and inclusive place to live and work.

Have your say to make sure new homes, employment spaces and transport are planned in the right places at www.westofengland-ca.gov.uk/future-of-the-region For a paper copy or information in an alternative format, contact 0117 428 6210 or planning@westofengland-ca.gov.uk.

To advertise, contact Gary on 07799 461169

Email: sales@emersonsgreenvoice.co.uk

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emersonsgreenvoice

26

December, 2020

n COMMUNITY NEWS MANGOTSFIELD RESIDENTS ASSOCATION DID you watch the Mangotsfield Remembrance service on-line?

If you did, then I am sure you will agree that it was wonderful.

We owe a huge thanks to Ian Campbell, of the Staple Hill & District Royal British Legion, for planning it, filming it, and then editing it to produce the finished article.

We also owe a big thank-you to all who took part in it: everyone was outstanding and helped make it a very moving and memorable event.

As I write, we are finalising plans to build the Nativity scene at the Dame School and put up lights in the village. It will be very much as last year – perhaps the lights will be a bit tidier and the Nativity a bit brighter, or perhaps “less dim”. We hope you all enjoy them.

I think we can all agree that 2020 has been a horrible year for so many people. Let’s hope 2021 is better and we can get back to a more normal life.

There are many things the MRA want to do: all are on hold at the moment.

We’d love more people to get involved so if you’d like to, or you need any help, then please get in touch by email at mangotsfieldourvillage@ gmail.com, via the ever-popular Mangotsfield Matters Facebook page or by telephone on 07507 168700.

In the meantime, please stay safe, look out for one another, and have the best Christmas and New Year you possibly can.

Chris Amos

How do I clean this?

A COUNCILLOR is asking for help to clean up an information board on the Bristol and Bath Railway Path.

South Gloucestershire Staple Hill & Mangotsfield ward councillor Michael Bell regularly walks on the path and says the board telling visitors about the history of the old Mangotsfield station has become so covered in graffiti it can no longer be read.

Michael is planning to clean up the board and is appealing for anyone with knowledge of the best method for removing spray paint to contact him at Michael.bell@southglos.gov.uk or by calling 07875 631817.

Photo courtesy of Michael Bell

Bristol Budget 21/22 Tell us your views on proposed council tax options Complete the survey online bristol.gov.uk/budget2021-2022.

The council tax consultation closes on 28 December.

For a paper copy or other alternative format email consultation@bristol.gov.uk or call 0117 922 2848.

If you are on a low income, council tax reduction could help pay your council tax bill. Find out more at bristol.gov.uk/council-tax-reduction

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Email: sales@emersonsgreenvoice.co.uk

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emersonsgreenvoice

December, 2020

27

n NEWS

Singing bus driver lightens gloom Choir A BUS driver who drives late night 48 and 49 services to Emersons Green and Lyde Green has a not-so-secret talent.

Singer Roger Brady records and performs under the name Jah Garvey – and passengers on his buses can be treated to an on-board performance.

Roger, who is originally from Jamaica, started driving for bus operator First when he moved to Bristol in 2008, based at the Lawrence Hill depot.

The 41-year-old writes songs inspired by the stories of the people he encounters on his journeys.

His latest, Brand New Day is an upbeat celebration of all the people who have carried on working through the pandemic and had clocked up more than 4,000 hits on YouTube as the Voice went to print.

Since moving to the UK Roger has worked with a series of producers in Bristol and performed at stage shows, festivals, carnivals and many

Roger Brady, aka Jah Garvey, whose song is a YouTube hit venues around the country.

He said: "I find my work as a driver a real inspiration for my music. For me, it is about supporting people by representing their lives through music and being able to encourage happiness and

personal growth in every person I meet.

"One of the routes I regularly drive is the service 48/49 – it’s a journey that is always full of both familiar and new faces.

"Everyone who boards has a story to tell – not everyone will tell you their story, but you can catch moments of people's lives passing by.

“I have been creating music for a long time now. It’s my passion, and each song has the potential to have an impact on peoples’ lives.

"Brand New Day is about telling the story of workers, whatever their field, and the richness of everyday life when we are at work: something that I personally get to experience fully as a driver."

First West of England managing director James Freeman said Roger's "passion and talent for music is an inspiration, especially during the tough time that everyone has had this year".

show

THE Bristol Military Wives Choir will be one of 23 choirs performing in this year’s virtual Christmas Choir Show.

With current coronavirus restrictions stopping them from performing live in venues, the choir, which draws many of its members from Emersons Green, has kept on singing via Zoom, and has already performed in two online concerts this year.

The Christmas Choirshow will be held on Sunday December 20 from 7.30pm.

Tickets are on sale online at finchmusic.ticketlight.co.uk and people buying tickets can choose which choir to support, with the Bristol Military Wives Choir receiving a quarter of the price of each ticket bought using their name.

THINKING ABOUT A RECEPTION PLACE IN SEPTEMBER 2021?

Join our Virtual Open Event to discover what Colston’s can offer your child

Saturday 23rd January at 9.30am Please register to join us at

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Got News? Call Linda On 0777 0700579

emersonsgreenvoice

28

n NEWS FROM OUR MP

December, 2020

The economic emergency has only just begun

A

Chris Skidmore writes for

Emersons Green Voice

S the local MP, I have welcomed the Chancellor’s Spending Review and its focus on protecting jobs and investing in our local services because, while our health emergency is not yet over, the economic emergency has only just begun.

It is important to deliver stronger public services and I am pleased to see that our local councils will continue to be financially supported so they can continue to provide support to local communities and vulnerable residents.

Next year, the health budget nationally will grow by £6.6 billion, allowing us to deliver 50,000 more nurses and 50 million more GP appointments – many of them within our local area.

And, having consistently campaigned for fairer school funding, I am delighted at

ministers’ commitment to increase the schools budget by £7.1 billion by 2022-23, compared to 2019-20.

That’s the biggest school funding boost in a decade and because our area is one of the lowest funded, it means our pupils will be one of the biggest gainers.

I have long championed investment for our local infrastructure, education provision and transport services and will continue to campaign for these projects to be funded out of the record £100bn the Chancellor is setting aside for capital investment next financial year.

For the coming new year, as your local MP I will continue to build on our work and push for the additional crucial investment needed for the regeneration of our Kingswood High Street and the full restoration of the Whitfield Tabernacle.

I will also continue to engage

with Government at the highest level to back the bid for a new secondary school to serve our growing community in Lyde Green, to secure the appropriate education provision for our local families and children.

Finally, I wanted to wish everyone a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.

We don’t know yet what celebrations we will have, but I hope that 2021 will be a better year than 2020.

News of the roll-out of a vaccine is extremely promising, and I hope that light is now at the end of what has been a dark tunnel.

We will bounce back from this, but we will do so faster if we can help support each other as a local community, a community which I am proud to represent.

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emersonsgreenvoice

December, 2020

29

n CRAFT COLUMN Christmas coin purse With Liz Freke of Hattie’s Hooray’s WITH Christmas around the corner and the decorations up, these cute coin purses are a great addition to any Christmas tree, and would also be a lovely gift. This is also a wonderful and fun craft to get the children involved with!

You will need: Strip of felt measuring 8cms x 20cms • Fabric scissors • Oddments of felt Fabric glue • Sewing pins • Additional embellishments eg ribbon, buttons etc. • Iron

1. First take your long strip of felt and make a mark at 7cm, and a further 7cm. Mark a line across the felt at these points.

3. Fold at the line and bring the bottom up to join with the second line. Secure in place with sewing pins whilst the glue dries and round off the corners of the ‘flap’ of the purse.

2. Now fold the strip up along these lines and press with an iron.

Run a strip of fabric glue along the sides of the first 7cm.

4. You are now going to create your design! First sketch your design then cut out the main part in felt. Stick onto your purse using fabric glue. Don’t forget the area underneath the flap too!

5. Remove the sewing pins, checking the glue has dried. Now embellish your design using felt pieces, buttons etc. – have fun!

You could also stitch the name of the recipient on the flap.

You have now handcrafted a gorgeous coin purse, which can be used to store chocolate coins and real coins! Have fun creating your very own coin purse and wishing you, your family and loved ones a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

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Nom Wholefoods brings festive baking to your front door FISHPONDS based online shop Nom Wholefoods have launched a new range of foodie Christmas treats and gifts including a Christmas Cake Kit, Cookies in a Jar and a warming Christmas Treat Selection.

The no waste Christmas Cake Kit contains just the right quantity of ingredients you need to make your own Christmas cake. It has proved popular with many local customers who don’t want to buy large bags of ingredients from the supermarket just for one cake.

Sarah Taylor of Downend said: “The Christmas Cake Kit is fantastic. Such a great idea, I’ve thoroughly enjoyed baking it, thank you.”

Nom Wholefoods are an online only wholefoods delivery service.

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Nikki and Matt Watten founded Nom Wholefoods in November last year as a way to give people easy access to shopping without plastic. Nikki said: “As we don’t have a local zero waste shop we thought we would open one ourselves! We decided to run it as a delivery service so we could give access to those further away from central Bristol where it’s difficult to find refill shops locally.”

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emersonsgreenvoice

30

December, 2020

n NEWS

Thousands join virtual remembrance

REMEMBRANCE events took place without the crowds who usually turn out to honour those who have died in war.

But the services lost none of their dignity and solemnity as they were held in accordance with lockdown regulations.

Ceremonies at Page Park in Staple Hill and Mangotsfield War Memorial were recorded in advance and streamed online on Remembrance Sunday morning, with 5,400 people viewing the Staple Hill service and 3,600 watching Mangotsfield.

Many people made their own journeys to the memorials during the day to pay their respects or leave wreaths or crosses of their own.

Staple Hill & District Royal British Legion chairman Ian Campbell said: “The response to the services was fantastic, and whilst we were disappointed that we could not hold the usual parade and service in Page

Park, with the Salvation Army and Staple Hill Partnership, we managed to create a moving virtual service of remembrance.”

Coronavirus restrictions

also affected the way the Poppy Appeal could operate, with collections limited and some shops with tins having to close.

However the RBL was able to sell poppies outdoors under a gazebo in Staple Hill and was also able to take online donations and orders for poppies, for collection.

Ian said: “I even had a queue at my home at one point.”

The final total raised is expected to be around £10,000.

Ian added: “I would like to thank everyone that helped make the services possible, especially the Salvation Army Band and everyone that laid a wreath and cross to remember those that

gave the ultimate sacrifice.”

Mangotsfield community pastor Clive Heath, who with Rev Teresa Taylor led the Mangotsfield service, thanked the veterans, RBL members, councillors, cubs and scouts who took part.

Above left: Paige and Mason Baker, aged 8 and 5 respectively, made their own tributes to the fallen and took them to Page Park on Sunday with their mum and their dad, who served in 40 Commando Royal Marines.

Picture by Phil Criddle.

Above right: Wreaths at Mangotsfield War Memorial.

Picture: Michael Bell

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December, 2020

n NEWS

31

Metro Mayor Tim to bow out REGIONAL mayor Tim Bowles is to retire from politics.

Mr Bowles, elected the first West of England Mayor in 2017, has announced that he will not seek re-election to the £65,000-a-year role, known as the Metro Mayor, when his term ends next spring.

Conservative Mr Bowles has been involved in local politics for 20 years. He was a South Gloucestershire councillor for the Winterbourne ward for seven years before he was elected to lead the West of England Combined Authority, and remains a Winterbourne parish councillor.

He said: “It has been an honour and a privilege to serve the West of England as a councillor and as the region’s first Metro Mayor.

"The combined authority has brought hundreds of millions of pounds to the region and seen major improvements that benefit every single person."

The authority, known as Weca, is made up from South Gloucestershire, Bristol and Bath & North East Somerset councils and has a region-wide role in policies such as housing, transport and skills.

Mr Bowles said Weca was "getting the region moving with a proper transport system", including the MetroWest rail network and Metrobus, was backing future technology such as 5G, supported businesses and helped more than 700 people through the Future Bright training scheme.

He said extra funding brought

by Weca had directly created 4,000 new jobs and 13,000 new qualifications.

South Gloucestershire Council leader Toby Savage said: “The impact that Tim has had as the inaugural West of England mayor, building the combined authority from scratch and bringing together the local authorities, both across

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geographical and political borders, has set our region on a truly positive path."

The region's Tories have yet to announce a candidate to succeed Mr Bowles at next May's elections.

In November Labour announced that former Wansdyke MP Dan Norris, who served as a minister during his 13-year Parliamentary career, had been selected as the party's candidate.

The former Chipping Sodbury Comprehensive School pupil served on Avon county and Bristol city councils in the 1980s and 90s.

The Liberal Democrats chose former Bristol West MP Stephen Williams, who was a minister in the coalition government from 2013-15, as their candidate in July. He also contested the 2017 Metro Mayor election.

Weca's councils are currently embroiled in a row over a bid by North Somerset Council to join,

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with Bristol Mayor Marvin Rees arguing that the government needs to show that existing areas would not lose out financially by adding a new member, while the Tories and Lib Dems accuse him of “putting party politics before doing the right thing for the region”.

Calls have now been made by Lib Dems for next year's election to be delayed until an agreement on North Somerset joining is reached.

Got News? Call Linda On 0777 0700579

vet I

emersonsgreenvoice

32

December, 2020

n VETS’ ADVICE

T’S hard to believe that autumn is over and we have the long cold winter months ahead of us! These are some seasonal tips to keep your pets safe and healthy this winter: • Do not give your pet chocolate, unless it is the dog variety!

Chocolate contains theobromine that is poisonous to pets. Make sure any chocolates including chocolate tree decorations are kept well out of your pet’s reach.

Symptoms include vomiting, diarrhoea, collapse, seizures, heart failure and death.

Your •Vet Whatand we consider to be treats can Owner: be extremely dangerous to Practice our pets: Christmas cake, mince Carla Puime Costoya pies, macadamia nuts, onion, MRCVSgarlic, chives, alcohol, avocado, grapes and raisins should all be avoided. Ingestion can be toxic and sometimes fatal.

• Some Christmas plants such e Pets at as Home, Poinsettia, Holly, Mistletoe, Amaryllis and7AE Lilies are highly Green, Bristol, BS16 toxic. Keep them well out of the reach of animals. com/bristol-emersons-green • Antifreeze is a very sweet poison for our pets, 5pm Sat,palatable 10.30am - 4.30pm Sun especially cats and often fatal

Winter hazards for our pets

s Green

even in small amounts.

• Rock salt (to de-ice paths and roads) is a mixture of salt and

grit which easily attaches to pets’ paws and fur and if licked off, It can cause vomiting and lethargy

and in severe cases lead to convulsions and kidney failure.

It is very important to remember to wipe your pet’s feet and their fur on their tummy after they have been for a walk.

• Older pets with arthritis will feel more discomfort in the cold so make sure they are kept as warm as possible when going outside.

• Make sure your small furries are kept warm by providing extra bedding and covering their hutches. Check water bottles daily to ensure they don’t freeze.

It is very important that you contact us straight away on 0117 910 9352 if you suspect your pet has eaten anything poisonous.

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From Vets4Pets Bristol Emersons Green Throughout the festive season we’ll be here for you and your pets:

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December, 2020

33

n NEWS

Art project shows a lot of heart SPECTACULAR art displays have been created by children at six primary schools working together.

Each one of the more than 2,000 pupils of Pucklechurch, Barley Close, Beacon Rise, Marshfield, Christ Church Infants and Christ Church Juniors has designed, created and painted a clay heart for the collaborative art project over the course of the autumn term.

Each year group has painted their hearts a different colour and the hearts have then been collected together and sent from school to school, with an appropriate covid isolation gap between each visit, for pupils to arrange in a way of their choosing, making a series of spectacular displays.

The schools are members of the Ignite schools hub, which brings together primary schools in a network sharing knowledge, support and skills to promote good practice, improvement, training and learning strategies, and is part of the South

Gloucestershire Learning Alliance.

Pucklechurch Primary Year 3 teacher Sophia Miller said: “It has been lovely to see the hearts all celebrated together uniting each of the different schools.

“At Pucklechurch the children were able to express their feelings towards the covid restrictions and create something really positive and memorable.

“They expressed how they would like to say thank you to their guardians, schools and NHS for taking care of them in such difficult times.

“What wonderfully respectful and compassionate children we have!

“It is incredible to be part of the Ignite schools hub, who are all so committed to actively supporting the mental health and well-being of every child and adult within our schools, and it has been wonderful to celebrate this joy together with this project, led by the art leaders across the schools.”

code, which will unscramble into a festive word.

To take part, people can buy a trail map online at pta-events. co.uk/pucklechurch.

The map includes details of where to look for clues.

Tickets cost £2 per individual entry or £5 for a family, with all entrants are entered into a prize draw for a new year hamper.

The PTA is raising money towards its iPad fund to buy the tablet computers for the school.

• Pucklechurch Primary School’s parent teacher association has launched a Covid-safe way of raising money.

The PTA’s Christmas Trail takes place from December 18 until January 3 around the village.

People taking part will need to look out for Father Christmases with clues, along with window displays and pictures for younger children to spot.

The clues all link up with a

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emersonsgreenvoice

December, 2020

35

n SPORT

Cricket club makes enormous strides

Wait goes on for Mangos

AN unusual season for Carsons and Mangotsfield Cricket Club ended in an unusual way, with an annual general meeting held over Zoom.

Club president Colin Angell felt that the club had pulled together socially, thanks to efforts of James Cathro and Clubman of the Year, James Davis.

It had also been successful on the pitch, with the 2nd XI winning their pod and the starting of a Saturday 4th XI plus an occasional 2nd team on a Sunday.

Following on from his reelection as chairman, Andy King said the club had made some enormous strides over the last 12 months.

Plans are well under way to celebrate 100 years of Carsons Cricket Club, with additional fixtures being planned as well as a centenary dinner, albeit coviddependent.

On the playing front, Andy was able to confirm that for the first

MANGOTSFIELD United face a wait to find out when they will play their next match.

The Southern Football League issued a joint statement with the Isthmian and Northern Premier leagues on December 3 to announce that the pause in fixtures brought about by November's lockdown would continue at least until it is next reconsidered on December 16.

Some 68 clubs in the Southern League voted in favour of the move, with 14 disagreeing.

The leagues hope to restart fixtures in January but this will not be until there is a change in the tier system and/ or some progress on a deal for the funding of clubs. Their last three fixtures were all defeats to high-flying sides, 3-0 home and away to Cirencester Town and Basingstoke Town respectively, and a 3-2 home defeat to Slimbridge Town.

time the club will have a specific girls' section, run by Mike Dowse and aimed at girls in school years 3 to 6.

This will be done in conjunction with trying to strengthen ties with local schools, to encourage both boys and girls in playing cricket.

The club is also looking to create a ladies' softball team and hopes to be able to announce more details in the New Year, once full plans are finalised.

The aim of playing more cricket over the coming seasons will put a greater pressure on the square and time spent preparing wickets.

Therefore the club is looking into improving the water supply to both squares, which it is hoped will include a rainwater harvesting system.

Due to the larger number of adult members the club is also moving the senior nets to Hanham Woods on a Monday evening, from 8pm-9pm. The academy

section of the club will remain at Mangotsfield School. In addition to the normal academy sessions, the club is also looking into running some additional sessions for school years 3 to 6 at Mangotsfield, hopefully in March.

Overall Andy felt the club was in a very strong position and could look to the coming season from a positive base.

Carsons and Mangotsfield 1st XI are again going to be led by Sam Brayley, supported by Craig Woodland.

The club is looking for new adult members and also players for the academy teams, particularly in the Under-15 (school years 9 and 10) team.

Any potential players who are interested in joining should call Andy King on 07988 745985 or vice-chairman Ian Coles on 07746 112998.

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36

December, 2020

n LETTERS Is sculpture round the wrong way?

I WAS a fierce opponent of demolishing the old Mangotsfield C of E Primary School, favouring the developer somehow incorporating the old school facade into the new development.

Therefore I have to stop myself being overcritical.

However, I instantly noted a glaring anomaly in the placement of the (actually very nice) sculpture

now in place on the site (Voice, November).

The sculpture was commissioned after requests from the public, former staff and pupils and the Mangotsfield Residents Association to commemorate the old school, and should therefore be seen by them as they walk by.

Can anyone explain to me why the sculpture is facing into the development site and not facing the road so passing locals can enjoy it? Is it just me?

Trish Jenkins

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Memories of old school I read with interest your recent article about Mangotsfield School (Voice, November).

My name is Brenda Radford (nee Hicks) and I attended the school from 1940.

I was a little sad to see it knocked down but to see the sculpture is lovely.

I remember many things about the school, including the round coal stove lit in winter and being a milk monitor. Mr Bailey brought the milk churns from his farm into the cloakroom and the monitors had to wash the milk bottles without any hot water and then fill them ready for lunchtime.

Another thing I remember is the annual visit of the school dentist- we would have our teeth filled there and then! Additionally the 'nit nurse' would make a yearly appearance.

The toilets were out in the yard - boys and girls together. It was always wet on the floor and the girls had to walk past the boys' drain to get to one of the two girls closets. We took no notice of the boys!

During the war we also had the air raid drill. The shelter was a brick building with long benches and we'd march in with our gas masks at the ready.

I remember that a lovely gentleman called Mr Farmiloe was our headmaster and Mr Thomas,

who was just out of the RAF, was one of our teachers, and we all liked him too.

Those were the days when we all walked to school and very often there were no accompanying parents. How times have changed.

Brenda Radford

Did you help make stone circle?

KINGSWOOD Heritage Museum would like to know more about the stone circle that was created in Emersons Green on an artificial hilltop when the Avon Ring Road was built, near the Pucklechurch/ Shortwood roundabout.

Do you know when the stone circle was created, and by whom?

Were you involved?

If you can tell the museum about the stone circle, please contact us by email at kingswoodmuseum@gmail.com or phone 0117 960 5664.

Richard Hartill Kingswood Heritage Museum

Update from Emersons Green, Staple Hill and Downend libraries ALL South Gloucestershire Libraries continue to work within current Government Regulations with safety measures in place.

Services we are currently able to offer during this time include borrowing items using our Click and Collect service and limited computer access, we recommend booking this in advance. All the information you need to plan your visit is on our website www.southglos.gov.uk/ librarychanges or you can call 01454 865022 (Mon-Fri 10am – 4pm, Sat 9.30am – 12pm).

Details of our Christmas opening hours will also be available at the above website.

Our free online library is always open 24/7 eBooks, eAudiobooks, eComics, digital magazines and

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newspapers continue to be available for library members to download anytime - www. southglos.gov.uk/eresources has all the details. It now also includes Who Else Writes Like?, and for children, Who Next? where you can find authors who write in a similar way to those you have already enjoyed reading. Simply log in with your library card number and select South Gloucestershire.

If you are not already a library member you can join online at bit.ly/joinLW. - membership is free. You will receive an Online Membership number which will work for our digital services right away. Please enter an email address when you register for greater control of your account.

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emersonsgreenvoice

December, 2020

n ON THE TREATMENT TABLE

37

What lockdown did to lifestyles

I

’M very much a “people person” – so I’m delighted to share with you the results of some very interesting research by the British Chiropractic Association.

They managed to get the views of 10,000 people who were asked about their experiences during the first Covid-19 lockdown. For example, how did they manage with changes to their exercise, diet and sleep patterns?

The survey, conducted by OnePoll and the BCA, investigated lifestyle habits and routines to understand the biggest changes to the population’s physical wellbeing as a result of lockdown and the impact continued restrictions may have.

The study looked at areas including exercise, sedentary habits, sleep quality and diet.

Across all age groups, people have been more sedentary since March, on average spending 11 hours a day sitting. All age groups have found exercise the most challenging routine to stick to and that’s what they want to most improve in 2021.

Interestingly, this new research revealed that 18 to 24-year-olds have experienced the biggest impact to their physical well-being, as a result of lockdown lifestyle changes. Most chiropractic patients have successfully set new routines for themselves with this younger age group the most proactive – but they’ve also been the worst at sticking to a new regime.

The figures show that 79% have now dropped the schedules they

had set up in March, when the first lockdown began.

There are so many great nuggets of information contained within this report and I wanted to share just a few of them here: • Nearly two thirds (57%) of people are spending more time sitting down than before lockdown and only a third have kept to their wellbeing routines.

• Men are 41% more likely to stick to new routines than women (23%).

• Exercise and getting outside each day are the hardest routines to stick to, with 42% not finding time for these during the week.

• With 43% of us working from home during lockdown, more than a quarter have experienced new symptoms of back, shoulder and neck pain.

• To manage feelings of tension and back pain, 25% of people have purchased self-support tools, 15% have consulted their GP and 10% have consulted with a chiropractor – nearly half of those polled haven’t sought any support yet (46%).

While facts and figures are useful, nothing quite beats coming up with a plan of action and sticking to it!

At Cleve Chiropractic, we’re privileged to have Catherine Quinn, the current BCA president, among our team of consultants – and she’s been busy drawing up a list of helpful tips to promote better back health: • Build a routine that’s realistic and works for your lifestyle.

Incorporating movement into your day is so important, but many of us set unmanageable goals for exercise.

• Our bodies love variation, so try to mix up the position you work in – if you work at a desk or table, consider a laptop stand which will allow you work standing up.

• A great night’s sleep is a game changer – it’s all too easy to scroll through TikTok and Instagram reels when you’re in bed. Try to protect the hour before you go to bed as your personal wind down time and avoid blue light tech.

• With changing lockdown restrictions and generally poorer weather on the way, getting outside to exercise or going to the gym is harder. To look after your back health there are lots of easy exercises you can do at home.

We’ve created some bitesize videos with simple stretches and exercises. You can find them On our facebook page, under the videos tab.

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Wigs Bristol

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LOCATED IN DOWNEND

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We have been supplying all types of wigs and hairpieces for fashion and medical purposes for 45 years.

Wigs can be purchased off the peg or made to measure in hair or synthetic fibre.

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We stock many styles and makes.

Please book an appointment on:

0117 956 6556 www.wigsbristol.com

To advertise, contact Gary on 07799 461169

Email: sales@emersonsgreenvoice.co.uk

Got News? Call Linda On 0777 0700579

ST. ALDAMS FARM NURSERY EST. 1973

BUY DIRECT FROM THE GROWER

THE BEST PLANTS AT THE BEST PRICES

Christmas at St Aldams

CHRISTMAS TREES • lighting • wreaths • POTS & NOVELTIES • SEASONAL VEG

NEW EXTENSIVE RANGE OF VEG ONIONS, POTATOES, CARROTS, PARSNIPS, CAULIFLOWERS, CABBAGE, LEEKS ETC

CHECK OUT OUR WEBSITE FOR EVENING OPENING HOURS WHY NOT COME AND SEE US AT ST ALDAMS? SOMETHING FOR ALL THE FAMILY

OPEN 7

DAYS

9AM-5 P

M

WESTERLEIGH ROAD, PUCKLECHURCH, BRISTOL BS16 9PY SEE OUR SITE FOR SPECIAL OFFERS staldamsnursery.co.uk