Emersons Green Voice December 2024

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Ava’s dream comes true

Schools finally take shape

LYDE Green’s long-awaited new secondary and primary schools are starting to rise from their foundations – and preparations are also going on away from the building site.

The wooden walls of the ‘Passivhaus’ energy efficient buildings can now be seen above the hoardings surrounding the site at the eastern end of Honeysuckle Road, with two cranes towering

above them. The first sections of wall to go up will eventually form part of the 420-place primary school to be run by Castle School Education Trust. Groundwork started back in the spring but it has taken several months for the site to be ready for the timber frame structure, which is being built in Austria and shipped to the UK, to be erected.

Turn to Page 3

Paying tribute to the fallen

These Brownies in Mangotsfield were among hundreds of people of all ages who took part in Remembrance events.

PAGES 12 & 13

Mangos ready for the winter

Mangotsfield United’s new all-weather pitch is ready to use after the £1.2 million project was completed on schedule.

PAGE 5

Missing man’s body found

Human remains found in a field in Lyde Green last month were those of David Wilson, 63, who had been missing from his home in Downend since May.

PAGE 7

Ava Mannings, from Downend, won the ITV’s The Voice UK contest , supported by coaches Danny Jones and Tom Fletcher from McFly. Full story: Page 9 Picture: ITV Plc

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DEADLINES

Our January edition deadline is December 11.

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 NHS 111

Safer Stronger team sscg@southglos.gov.uk 01454 868009

Anti social behaviour team asbreporting@southglos.gov.uk 01454 868582

Officer guilty of ‘appalling’ abuse

A POLICE officer from Mangotsfield has been convicted of “horrendous” domestic abuse offences following a five-week trial.

PC Mitchell Curtis, aged 34, was found guilty by jurors at Gloucester Crown Court of two counts of controlling and coercive behaviour, one of intentional suffocation and one of criminal damage.

He was released on bail and will be sentenced on a date to be confirmed.

A senior Avon & Somerset officer said Curtis was “both abusive and highly manipulative”, and the prosecution showed that “no police officer is above the law”.

Police said the offences occurred in South Gloucestershire while Curtis, of Charnhill Drive, was off-duty.

The jury were told Curtis had been physically, emotionally and verbally abusive towards a woman over an 18-month period.

A police spokesperson said Curtis was arrested on the day the woman reported what had happened, in October 2022, and suspended while a criminal investigation was carried out.

The spokesperson said: “Our Professional Standards Department has carried out a parallel investigation into Curtis.

“Due to the seriousness of his offences, the criminal trial has taken primacy, and misconduct proceedings will now follow.”

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

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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, or can be obtained by contacting the Publisher.

A member of the

Assistant Chief Constable Joanne Hall said: “We would like to publicly recognise the courage the victim has shown in this case, firstly in reporting what an appalling ordeal Curtis had subjected her to but also for supporting the prosecution to enable these guilty verdicts to be achieved.

“His behaviour towards the victim was both abusive and highly manipulative.

“The seriousness of the offences Curtis committed will leave colleagues within policing shocked and appalled, and it is right he has been brought to justice for these horrendous crimes.

“A wealth of evidence was collated during our seven-month investigation, and yet despite that he still refused to admit to what he had done.

“No police officer is above the law.

“I hope this outcome reassures any victim of crime that we take these matters incredibly seriously and we will always be perpetrator focussed, no matter who the offender is.

“Misconduct proceedings will now be progressed against Curtis, where we will seek to ensure that he is barred from ever working in policing again.”

Visible progress on new schools

From Page 1

The Olympus Academy Trust, which will run the 900-place Lyde Green Community School, says the work is “progressing well”, with the current phase of construction due to be completed next spring.

The school’s head teacher designate, Tom Hill, said: “The journey to this point has been long and has involved collaborative work between the Olympus Academy Trust, South Gloucestershire Council, and BAM. We are pleased that we are making progress and creating a school the community can be proud of.”

Mr Hill has been working on “envisioning the school’s future”, spending time with the head teachers of local primary schools,

members of the local community and colleagues within the trust, as well as visiting some of the “highest-performing schools in the county” as he plans for the opening in September 2026.

The first opportunity people have to help shape the school’s future is a survey on the kind of uniform it should have, which can be accessed online at tinyurl. com/3ryuauew and is open

until December 16. A community update published in November can be found at tinyurl. com/3bw7nvz8

The school has a website at www.lydegreencs.org.uk, which includes provisional dates for open evenings, and a Facebook page.

The schools were originally due to open in September 2022 but have been hit by a series of delays.

South Gloucestershire Council cabinet member for schools Ian Boulton said: “There is real progress being made to the building of the new Lyde Green schools.

“We are pleased that the project is currently on track so that students will be able to move in at the start of the Autumn 2026 term.”

Top: An aerial view of the building work; Above: the latest CGI Above right: The wooden walls, and a view from ground level

BLACK bins will only be collected once every three weeks under a new contract with the waste firm Suez signed by South Gloucestershire Council.

Leaders say the change, which will come into force in 2026, will drive up recycling rates.

But opposition councillors have warned the changes could create an “environmental health risk”, particularly for some disabled people.

The new contract, approved at a cabinet meeting on November 11, will be in force for the next eight years, with an option to extend it to 16 years.

It also includes recycling soft plastics.

Latest figures show that 57% of kerbside waste in the district is recycled, which has recently dropped.

Council cabinet member for communities Sean Rhodes said: "As we’ve come out of Covid, we’ve seen a change in people’s behaviour, and that’s why nationally there’s been a dip in recycling rates. "By moving to three-weekly and by bringing in changes to our plastic recycling, we’re confident that we’ll move

Three-weekly black bin collections confirmed

recycling rates up."

Cllr Rhodes said analysis of black bin waste showed 12.5% is food waste, 23% is already recyclable and 27.7% is "flexible" plastics, which will be recycled under the new contract.

That means only 36.8% of waste by volume in black bins is non-recyclable.

Cllr Rhodes said: "By changing how we collect soft plastics, we’re confident that’s going to change our recycling rates. It’s something to be really applauded, I believe. This has been a process that’s taken several years and the work began under the previous [Conservative] administration.”

The current nappy collection service will stay fortnightly, although Tory group leader Sam Bromiley raised concerns about the "environmental health risk" posed by adults using

Emersons Green Town Council is seeking to appoint an enthusiastic, proactive full time Youth Liaison Officer to join a small dynamic team of staff at an ambitious, forward thinking, aspirational local Council. This role offers an exciting opportunity to help shape and deliver high-quality youth services within a supportive and innovative work environment. Flexible working arrangements are available, with negotiable days and hours by agreement.

The Youth Liaison Officer will be responsible for implementing and managing the Council’s youth work delivery framework, ensuring it aligns with professional standards. This role is integral to the day-to-day operations of the Council, contributing to our strategic vision of providing exceptional services and facilities for the community.

The Council’s Strategic Plan, initially adopted in 2021, outlines several goals that we continue to

incontinence pads having to wait three weeks between collections.

Frenchay & Downend Conservative ward councillor Liz Brennan said: "Residents are still telling me how concerned they are about moving to a threeweekly black bin collection.

"Large households in particular, who recycle as much as possible, will really struggle with three-weekly collections."

Another change is that residents will have to book a slot in advance, before visiting a household waste recycling centre, known as Sort It centres. These centres will also be brought in house and managed by the council.

Cllr Rhodes said: “I think the booking system is going to be over time a real boon. I use the sites often and to know that I’m going to be able to turn up at a certain time, having booked it,

Black bins will be collected every three weeks, rather than two, from 2026

and I’ll be in and out without having to queue, is going to make the whole process so much more effective and efficient.”

Mangotsfield's Sort It centre was due to reopen on November 25 after a month of repair and maintenance work. In an update on its StreetCare Facebook page, the council said the work was "progressing well".

By Alex Seabrook, Local Democracy Reporting Service

Recruitment of Youth Liaison Officer

GREEN TOWN COUNCIL

Salary Scale: NJC SCP 24-28 (currently £34,314-£37,938 per annum). (depending on experience and qualifications), 37 hours / week. Plus – Local Government Pension Scheme and Free Parking.

pursue as part of our growth-focused vision for the parish. The Youth Liaison Officer will play a key role driving an ambitious programme of growth, with aspirations to ensure the very best services and facilities are provided for its residents and visitors. There are also a number of projects which the Council wishes to undertake and complete as soon as possible.

The Youth Liaison Officer will have a key role in establishing high quality, targeted youth work and supporting and assisting with delivering these aims and objectives. The post holder will be a key component in ensuring that this aspirational Council meets its stated aims and objectives within the Parish.

We are looking for candidates who can demonstrate relevant experience in youth work, specifically with groups of young people aged 11–25. Ideally, this experience includes both

youth club settings and outreach programs, and a formal youth work qualification (JNC) is preferred. Applicants should have a proven ability to manage contracts and negotiations whilst delivering within a financial budget, ensure service achievement, and drive innovation. Strong communication, IT, and organisational skills, along with a communityfocused mindset, are essential. Knowledge of local government is desirable but not required.

The role may involve occasional evening meetings and weekend events, for which time off in lieu will be provided. Emersons Green Town Council is committed to equal opportunities and actively welcomes applications from all sections of the community.

Join us at Emersons Green Town Council and help us make a positive impact on the lives of young people in our community.

• The closing date for the receipt of applications is 12 Noon on Tuesday 31st December 2024.

• Formal interviews will provisionally take place in Emersons Green on Friday 17th January 2025.

• It is hoped the new Youth Liaison Officer will commence their role around Monday 3rd March 2025.

New pitch is ready after £1.2m project

MANGOTSFIELD United's brand new all-weather pitch is ready to use after a £1.2 million revamp of the club's Cossham Street ground was completed on schedule.

The first team was due to play its first home fixture of the season on November 23 at 3pm, against Slimbridge.

Before that the club held an open evening on November 7, where players, supporters and people interested in hiring the pitch and other facilities were invited to have a look around.

The club and Mangotsfield & Blackhorse Sports and Community Association first announced plans to replace the sloping turf pitch with an allweather 3G surface in September last year.

The project has involved levelling the 2.2m (7ft 2in) drop between the highest and lowest corners of the pitch.

That means the corner by the changing rooms is now accessed by a short flight of steps and the terraces nearby stand above pitch level.

The project has also included replacing the existing floodlights with more energy-efficient LED lighting, which will reduce light pollution in neighbouring areas.

New covered standing areas have been created on the terrace opposite the main Ralph Miller Stand, alongside new dugouts for home and away managers, trainers and substitutes.

Work started after the end of last season, and the Hellenic Football League allowed the club to play all of this season's Premier Division fixtures away

until contractors Tiger Turf and McCardle had the pitch ready to use.

It means all of the outstanding league fixtures are at home, except for a postponed match at Malmesbury Victoria, which had still to be rearranged as the Voice went to print.

Club chairman Steve Brown said the project had been "a challenge".

It has been funded with help from a £775,499 joint grant from the Premier League, the FA and government’s Football Foundation, plus a further Premier League award of £150,000.

Sport: Page 58

Groundsman Pete Brown, chairman Steve Brown and manager Glyn Ashton pitch-side by the new dugouts

The club's logo at the side of the pitch

An aerial view of the new pitch. Picture: Above Horizon Photography

TURNER'S VISION

Find comfort from blepharitis with these five proven solutions

As far as conditions affecting the eye go, blepharitis is right up there among the most irritating.

It’s one of the most common reasons for cancelling routine eye surgery and it affects up to one in three Brits, some young children and people aged 50-plus.

Peter Turner of Turners Opticians 0117 962 2474 0117 965 4434

www.turnersopticians.co.uk

As well as swollen, sore eyelids, symptoms include:

• itchy eyes

• the sensation there is some grit in your eye that you can’t get rid of

• flakes or crusts around the roots of the eyelashes

• eyelids sticking together in the morning when you wake up

Once you’ve had blepharitis, chances are it will come back, often with long periods in between with no symptoms. There is good news though – it isn’t contagious and can be treated!

What causes blepharitis?

One of the most common causes is simply just not giving your eyelid margins the regular care and attention they need. It’s more common if you have sensitive skin, dermatology conditions or allergies.

It can also be caused by a specific type of bacteria living on the skin, a skin condition such as seborrhoeic dermatitis or the glands inside your eyelids not producing enough oil.

Without treatment it will not improve – but there are things you can do to minimise your chances of getting blepharitis in the first place. They include:

• Removing any eye make-up before going to bed. Our eyelid wipes are an excellent way of doing this while also keeping your eyelids clean.

• Please never share your eye make-up or lotions with anyone else.

• Most make-up has an expiry date. Even if you can’t find an expiry date, it’s worth replacing items such as mascara every three months.

These are my five top tips for anyone suffering from blepharitis, which can help ease a number of other eye conditions as well, including chalazia, styes and dry eye …

1. Warm eyelid bathing. For a low cost home remedy, try adding a pinch of bicarbonate of soda to the water to improve its effectiveness. Simply dip a fresh cotton pad in the water and bathe your closed eyelids. Baby shampoo, although a once heralded as a cure-all is now not recommended as this also washes away your tears - which quite frankly is a bad idea!

2. Warm heat pad. Fill a bowl with warm water and submerge a clean washcloth. Wring it out so it’s damp but not dripping wet and put on your eye for a few minutes. This simple technique also helps the oily meibomian glands to improve and prevent tears evaporating as quickly which provides relief for sore eyes!

3. Eyelid cleansing gels. There’s lots of these out there – they gently remove impurities, debris and make-up from the eyelids at the base of the eyelash.

4. Eyelid wipes specifically for blepharitis. I am a big fan of eyelid wipes as they work amazingly well and are easy to use. If you would like to try one, just drop me an email and we’ll send you a voucher. Be quick mind, as they go fast and we only have a limited number of samples. Why not get yours now? Contact me at EyeCareTeam@TurnersOpticians.co.uk.

5. Artificial tears after your eyelid cleansing. These keep your eyes lubricated and help your eyes feel more soothed.

If your symptoms persist you can see a specialist at our Bristol Dry Eye Clinic where we provide accurate diagnosis and effective treatment solutions.

See you soon!

Peter Turner is an Independent Prescribing Senior Optometrist at Turners Opticians in Bristol, who also works as a Senior Medical Optometrist at Bristol Eye Hospital. Peter has a specialist interest in visual development and visual performance.

Missing man’s body found in field

A MAN whose remains were found in Lyde Green had been missing for several months, say police.

David Wilson, aged 63, of Downend, was reported missing in September, but had not been seen since mid-May.

Police made two appeals for information about his whereabouts, but no one came forward with any confirmed sightings.

His remains were discovered on November 5, in a field between Westerleigh Road and Apple Grove, off Jenner Boulevard.

An area including the end of Apple Grove and a footpath that runs from Jenner Boulevard to a bridge over the Folly Brook, near the Vertex Business Park, was sealed off for several days, as an investigation involving forensic teams and the police underwater

search unit was carried out.

An Avon & Somerset police spokesperson said: “Sadly, a forensic examination of the remains has now confirmed the identification.

“David’s next of kin have been updated and we’re thinking of them.

“Officers have found no evidence of suspicious circumstances and continue to treat the death as unexplained,

since a forensic postmortem examination proved inconclusive.”

Anyone who saw David at any time between May and November, or believes they have information which could help establish what happened to him, should call 101 and give the incident reference number 5224 291 560.

A footpath leading to a bridge over the Folly Brook, linking the field to nearby homes, was also taped off

Police sealed off the end of Apple Grove in Lyde Green after human remains were found

Ava celebrates a life-changing win

SINGER Ava Mannings has left the Downend dog grooming parlour where she worked behind to record an album after winning national TV talent contest The Voice UK.

Ava, aged 21, won a record deal with Universal Music UK’s Island EMI label, £50,000 and an all-expenses-paid holiday when the ITV1 show’s studio audience picked her as the winner in the final, screened at the end of October.

Since then Ava says her life has been “crazy”, with TV appearances, radio play and chart placings for her songs, and a wave of support on social media.

She is now working with a team of musicians to share her passion for music and “talk to the world”, telling Downend Voice: “I’m starting to realise my dream.”

Ava had the celebrity coaches reaching for superlatives every time she sang on the Saturday night primetime show.

All four - will.i.am, LeAnn Rimes, Sir Tom Jones and the joint team of Tom Fletcher and Danny Jones – wanted her on their team in the opening blind auditions stage.

After she picked McFly's Tom and Danny, Ava got through the show's callbacks episode with her own interpretation of Nirvana's Smells Like Teen Spirit, before winning her semi-final with God Only Knows by the Beach Boys.

In the final, contestants had to sing a solo, then perform with their coaches.

Tom and Danny asked Ava to sing The Long and Winding

Road, by The Beatles, giving her 48 hours to prepare it.

She then joined with Tom and Danny for a stripped-back version of Hoobastank's The Reason.

When the audience vote was revealed, Ava jumped into Tom and Danny's arms, with mum April Dickie coming on to the stage to join in the celebrations.

Ava's brother Rex was one of her guests at the final, and she also invited fellow contestant Kyra Smith and her mum, after making friends with them.

Ava said one of the songs Kyra had performed, The Impossible Dream, had been a favourite of one of her mentors, Hambrook Primary School teaching assistant and choir leader Sue Cessford, who passed away in 2019.

Ava said: "I was crying my eyes out behind the stage when Kyra sang it. It was a connection between me and Sue, so it's a massive connection with Kyra."

Since the show was broadcast Ava said: "My life is changing –it's mad!"

She has been in the studio working with Danny Jones and Dougie Poynter of McFly, and another musician, Steven Batelle from LostAlone, who together write and produce music as SideQuest.

Ava said: "They're absolutely amazing, figuring out musically where we want to go.

to everyone who's been behind me. Any kind of venue would be mental – I've only got up with a microphone in a pub before!"

Ava said it was hard to keep the result of the pre-recorded show a secret until the final was broadcast.

Since then, she said she has had messages from people who have been part of her journey as a singer, including Bristol Amateur Operatic Society (BAOS) Youth, Staple Hill-based St Mary's Players, Winterbourne Academy and the animal care team at SGS College.

BAOS Youth chair Frankie Duddridge said: "We always knew she had the talent to go far and from her first audition in The Voice UK, she had the backing of everyone who knew her in BAOS, as well as current youth members who hope to follow in her shoes one day.

"It's been incredible – every step is a massive learning lesson.

"I've got so much creative energy flowing out of me and I'm trying to put that into my music."

Ava has been bringing her own material, from lyrics she has previously written to ideas she's had on the train on the way to the studio, and working with the team to record some original songs.

She said: "We're hoping to get an album together within the next few months, and get a few singles out. "I have lots of material I've never recorded that I want to get out. I'm feeling so super lucky and thankful."

Two of Ava's performances from The Voice UK have been released.

The Long and Winding Road was made available as a download straight after the show and made it to number 3 in the Official Big Top 40 from Global, a chart that combines Apple iTunes sales and streams with radio play.

On November 5 The Reason was released as a single, entering the Official Singles Download chart at number 10.

Ava wants to perform live in the New Year. She says a date at a Bristol venue will be top of her list, and would love to play one of the city's well known music venues like the O2, SWX or The Fleece.

She said: "I just want to sing

"To see Ava's dreams coming true and her hard work paying off is incredible to see."

Winterbourne Academy head of arts Rachel Gittoes said: "We have very fond memories of Ava as an incredibly talented actor, dancer and of course, singer.

"We have followed Ava’s journey on the voice with great excitement and are immensely proud of her incredible achievement."

Hambrook Primary School head teacher Jennifer Rubel said: "She has always been a fantastic singer and showcased her incredible talent from a young age in our school choir and performances led by Sue Cessford. It’s heart-warming to see Ava fulfilling her dreams and honouring the musical foundation that Sue helped build.

"Ava’s journey is a true inspiration to all our students, reminding us of the power of dedication, hard work, and following one’s dreams."

Ava said she had received countless messages on social media from people she had never met.

She said: "I just feel such a connection with the whole world right now Everything is falling into place, how I always dreamed it would be.

“I take every step as if I'm on a massive ladder – I'm not sure where the end is going to be but I'm looking up."

Ava Mannings performs The Long and Winding Road in the Voice UK final. Picture: ITV Plc

Ava performs in BAOS Youth's Seussical. Picture: Stewart McPherson Photography

Tories and Greens unveil Metro Mayor picks

THE Conservative and Green parties have announced their candidates to be the next West of England Metro Mayor.

Former Bristol city councillor Steve Smith has been named as the Tory candidate, while Heather Mack, the city council's deputy leader, is the Greens' choice.

Both will stand in the election to replace Labour's Dan Norris, who is unable to stand again after being elected as an MP and banned from having two jobs by his party.

Mr Smith is a former Lord Mayor of Bristol, and represented the Westbury-onTrym & Henleaze ward from 2018 until May, when all three Tory incumbents were ousted by Lib Dems.

He is first major party nominee to be announced, following a meeting of local party members on November 9.

During his time as a councillor Mr Smith sat on the West of England Combined

Authority scrutiny committee, chaired the city council’s health overview and scrutiny committee and was Lord Mayor from 202122.

He has pledged to bring “grown-up leadership back to the combined authority” and boost economic growth.

Mr Smith said: "Our region has huge potential to lead in areas such as innovation, green technology and sustainable growth, but we need strong leadership to unlock that potential for everyone in our

community.

“I am committed to working tirelessly to create a West of England that works for everybody, where political leaders can be trusted to work together and where the West of England is able to reach its full potential and grow our economy for everyone’s benefit."

Heather Mack's selection was announced by the Green Party four days later.

The Lockleaze ward member was first elected in 2021. She previously worked for Oxfam and

on sustainable food systems.

Cllr Mack said: "We’ve seen in recent elections that there is a real appetite for green solutions in the West Country. I hope to add to our Green wins across the region this year and offer a vision of real hope and real change.

"We have been a consistently poorly performing authority, largely due to the lack of a serious commitment to public transport and vocational skills. As WECA leader, I would have the courage to use the powers and funding that go with the role to deliver the mass transit and sustained economic success our region needs."

Labour members were voting on their candidate as the Voice went to print. The two South Gloucestershire councillors originally on the party's shortlist, Sean Rhodes and Ian Scott, were cut by a selection panel before the vote.

Includes reporting by Adam Postans, Local Democracy Reporting Service

Green Heather Mack

Conservative Steve Smith

Skydiving mum raises £2,000 for Cots for Tots

A MUM from Pucklechurch has raised £2,000 for Bristol’s Cots for Tots appeal by undertaking a 15,000ft skydive.

Gemma Giltrow wanted to give back to the charity after the support she and her husband Joey received following the premature birth of their daughter Jade in August last year.

Jade was born in Southmead Hospital weighing 14 ounces – 419 grams – and was in an incubator in St Michael’s Hospital’s neonatal intensive care unit (NICU), given only a 50% chance of survival.

But after three operations and 149 days in hospital, she was allowed to go home with her parents and brother Connor.

She is still under the care of medical professionals but is now well enough to go to nursery.

Gemma, who works with adults with mental health difficulties, said she wanted to undertake the daredevil 15,000ft (4,572m) drop to give back to the NICU team who had supported her and her family so well.

Gemma successfully completed the skydive at Dunkeswell Airfield in Devon at the end of October.

She said: “I had the most amazing time –what a buzz!

“Thank you to every single person who donated an incredible amount for a charity close to our hearts.

“All the neonatal services Jade spent time in are just out of this world. Words can’t even thank them enough for what they did for our daughter.”

Cots for Tots is the charity for St Michael’s NICU and Bristol Children’s Hospital.

2.

3.

Gemma’s daughter Jade

Gemma in mid-air

Back on the ground

A time to remember

ORGANISERS of Remembrance services in the Downend area say the number of people coming to pay their respects continues to grow each year.

Hundreds of people took part in the traditional event at Staple Hill, with a parade along the high Street and Broad Street followed by an open air service in Page Park on November 10 to remember those who gave their lives in conflict.

Residents joined veterans, members of uniformed organisations and civic leaders for the event, which for the first time was organised by Staple Hill & Mangotsfield Parish Council.

The parish council worked with the Staple Hill & District branch of the Royal British

Legion, the Salvation Army and other groups to make the arrangements.

Parish council chair Ian Campbell said: "We were fortunate to have the support of those with years of experience in organising the event, as well as fresh contributions from new individuals.

"On behalf of the local community, I’d like to express my sincere thanks to everyone who helped bring the event together.

Later in the day a crowd gathered at Mangotsfield's war memorial in Alec Large Park for a service organised by Mangotsfield Residents Association, St James church and the Royal British Legion.

It was led by MRA chair and community pastor Clive Heath and St James vicar James

Cannan.

Clive said: "It was a great attendance again this year, and so good to see many new faces and younger people joining us for a time to remember, to reflect and to show respect for the fallen.

"A big thank you to all who helped and supported us again this year."

An informal service was also held at the Red Lion and led by Clive, for people who could not attend one of the parades.

Clive said: "Thank you to Neil and his bugle and to Tom for reading his poem, and a big thank you to Mary and all the staff for all their help, not forgetting Nick and team for providing the sound system for both services, as usual."

Veterans march in Staple Hill

Army Cadets on parade

Cubs march along Broad Street

Bristol North East MP Damien Egan and Emersons Green ward councillor Rachael Hunt joined the parade

Crowds gather around the memorial in Page Park

Mangotsfield Rainbows take their wreath to the memorial in Alec Large Park

THE whole of Mangotsfield School gathered together on the playground for its Act of Remembrance on November 11.

Those gathered heard readings from students including the Exhortation, read by Charlotte Normanton, Flanders Field, read by Lauren Bywater and Epitaph, read by Zoe Grimston Down.

The Last Post was played by Theo Knight, before the two minutes' silence, which was respectfully observed.

The service was led by head teacher Hetty Blackmore with the school's student leaders.

REPRESENTATIVES of the Freemasons' Hambrook Lodge held a service on Armistice Day at the war memorial on Whiteshill Common to pay their respects to those who gave their lives for their country in conflict.

They were joined by a bugler and representatives from nearby Harmony & Concord, Seafarers, and Tyndall lodges, as well as the Gerrard Lodge from Somerset.

Many of those attending had served in uniform.

The lodge, which meets at the Masonic Hall in Stapleton, was originally formed by masons who played for Hambrook Cricket Club, which is based on Whiteshill Common.

Banners are lowered in Mangotsfield as the Last Post is played

Rev James Cannan and Clive Heath led the Mangotsfield service

Brownies lay a wreath in Mangotsfield

Staple Hill & Mangotsfield Parish Council chair Ian Campbell in his uniform

Showpeople’s homes approved

PLANS for six plots for travelling showpeople to park mobile homes in the Green Belt between Lyde Green and Westerleigh have been approved.

South Gloucestershire councillors voted 8-1 to give permission for mobile homes, trucks and trailers with fairground equipment, to stay on land at Oakleigh Green Farm Lane, north of the M4.

Westerleigh Parish Council and 14 residents objected on grounds including inappropriate development in open countryside and traffic safety, because the site is near an oil terminal and a pig abattoir, which have lorries and tankers entering and exiting each day.

Puma Energy, which runs the fuel storage facility, objected, saying there were 300 daily HGV movements to and from its business, an average of one every two minutes over 10 hours.

But transport officers said the application by travelling showman Joe Maggs on behalf of his family, who have lived in the area for more than 30 years, was acceptable because the road access had adequate visibility and that the amount of extra traffic from six plots would not cause congestion.

Council development manager Marie Bath told a planning committee meeting: “The council cannot meet the needs of travelling showpeople and this is a significant material factor in the determination of the application. It is a worsening situation. In 2017 our need was for 31 additional plots. Our need is now 65 by 2042.”

She said this was in addition to an extra 132 Gypsy and traveller pitches needed.

Ms Bath said: “This site is immediately available, it’s not isolated and significant weight is given to the fact the site will be occupied by children.”

She said the lack of plots elsewhere meant there were “very special circumstances” which meant the benefits of the scheme clearly outweighed the harms.

By Adam Postans, Local Democracy Reporting Service

Campaigners make case

CAMPAIGNERS opposing plans to build thousands of new homes on countryside between Pucklechurch and Warmley say the proposals are “brutal and destructive” to residents.

Save Our Green Spaces urged South Gloucestershire Council bosses to consider the impact on existing communities living on the eastern fringe of proposals to allow Green Belt land to be opened to development.

The Local Plan, which has yet to be adopted, includes opening land around Shortwood to development of up to 1,480 homes by 2040.

During a cabinet meeting on November 11, SOGS-SG campaigner Darren Lawrence said: “The loss of hedgerows, trees, shrubs and more may seem insignificant to South Gloucestershire Council.

“This benefits not just our ecosystem but also has an important role in preventing flooding. The council has not reassured residents that they will prevent further catastrophic flooding in the area.

“We already lack timely access to healthcare in the area.

“Traffic is already a huge concern.

“It’s a brutal and destructive plan for the local people. The reality of what’s being pushed on local people I feel will have massive consequences. We have to find a balance.”

Council cabinet member for planning Chris Willmore said: “You may not believe this, but we’re on your side. We’re trying to minimise the harm to our local environment and meet the needs of the community.”

But the meeting heard the council can’t move ahead with the next stage of its plan until the government has decided the final number of new homes the area will need.

Cllr Willmore and deputy council leader Ian Boulton said they were being approached by residents who faced homelessness due to a lack of housing.

Cllr Boulton said: “We need housing, it’s as stark as that.”

By Alex Seabrook, Local Democracy Reporting Service

Birthday Buses are back

I’D like to start this column by highlighting Poppies to Paddington, a project by GWR and the Veterans Charity.

This year, working with the RNLI, they organised ceremonies on platforms across our rail network on Armistice Day, laying wreaths which were then taken to the Great Western Railway War Memorial in London.

I joined a poignant ceremony at Bath Spa station, once again remembering and reflecting on the service of our Armed Forces, and spoke to the BBC on the train to Paddington about my great grandfather, who made the ultimate sacrifice in the First World War.

The first year of Birthday Buses was an enormous success: 72,000 passengers took an amazing 1.2 million journeys.

On average, people took around 19 free journeys – saving almost £40 in fares.

An independent report found that the scheme was good value for money, providing £2.20 of benefit for every £1 spent.

Birthday Buses have helped people change their travel habits, reduce congestion, and cut carbon emissions by the equivalent of driving five million miles in a petrol car.

So, from December 1, I’m delighted to say that Birthday Buses are back!

This new £4 million investment offers everyone in the wider West of England a whole month of free bus travel for the month of their birthday.

This year, there will also be added retail discounts at shops, restaurants, and attractions across the region for Birthday Bus pass-holders.

If you apply before you turn 21 you will get a second month of free travel. To sign up for your month of free bus travel, visit BirthdayBus.co.uk.

November also saw the launch of our Local Nature Recovery Strategy – a watershed moment.

We were the first place in the whole country to complete this important work, working through the West of England Nature Partnership with organisations like Avon Wildlife Trust and community groups across our region.

That’s to be expected, but also something we should all be proud of.

People from the towns, villages and cities of the West of England love wildlife and nature.

From the majestic kingfishers along the Kennet and Avon canal, to mighty ancient oaks in Pensford and vibrant pollinator

patches in Bristol’s parks, our region is home to some wonderful species.

This new joint strategy puts our region on the map, with an ambitious plan to support nature to recover and thrive in every corner of the West of England.

With investment from businesses and landowners across our region, and everyone doing their bit, the future looks bright once again.

And finally, I have started official social media channels as the regional mayor to help people stay up to date between my monthly columns in the Voice.

On Instagram you can follow @ WestOfEnglandMayor, on Twitter/X it is @ WestOfEngMayor and on Facebook you can find me by searching for ‘Dan Norris, Mayor of the West of England’.

School tours: Tuesday 1st October at 9:30am, Wednesday 23rd October at 9:30am and 6pm, Tuesday 26th November at 9:30am and Friday 10th January at 9:30am

Please call: 0 01454 867400 or email: a admin@mangoschool.org to book your place.

“Ifeelproud of our learning, our

our staff and our friends. ”

Learner comment, 2024

“Ifeel blessed to have the opportunity to send my child to Mango every day ”

Parent comment, 2024

www.mangotsfieldprimary.org

Nursery goes 'above and beyond' for children

A NURSERY'S confident children and dedicated staff have been praised by an inspector.

Ofsted visited Muddy Puddles Day Nursery and Preschool in Blackhorse Road in October.

Inspector Rachel Howell's report said the nursery, which has 27 children aged from one to four on its roll, is 'good' in all areas – quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, leadership and management, and personal development.

She praised the way staff encourage children to be independent and do things for themselves, helping them to grow in confidence and show "very good skills for their age".

The inspector said: "Staff support children to tackle challenges and have a go, offering them lots of encouragement and praise, building children's confidence effectively.

"Managers show considerable dedication to providing the best they can for the families that use their setting."

The inspector said the nursery worked with parents and outside professionals to make sure all children achieve their potential.

She said: "Parents are complimentary and extremely appreciative of the advice and support they receive.

"They say staff go above and beyond what is expected and

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work tirelessly to help them and support their children."

The report highlighted work to help children develop maths skills through activities including bingo games and the use of a variety of materials to develop creativity.

Activities including climbing, obstacle courses and ball games help children develop

coordination and strength, with children learning to share and play together.

The inspector said: "Staff focus on building children's skills as they play and explore.

"They get down to children's level, listening to them, encouraging their speech and conversation, and offering useful words and explanations to extend their communication."

The visit was Ofsted's second since the nursery opened in 2017, and its first since the pandemic.

To improve further the inspector recommended staff adapt support during routines and group activities, and build more on children's ideas to further develop their learning.

Nursery owner Sam Vitale said: "We felt the inspector really did capture what we're striving to achieve every day with the children, for them to feel happy, build their confidence and resilience.

"We're really proud of our staff and children, and grateful to them and our parents as well."

TURNERS HEARING CARE BLOG

Ear wax factoid: Ear wax is a natural bug repellent!

We’re all kind of used to how ears look - but here are 3 reasons why they’re so peculiar!

1. Sound collection and making it louder.

All those ridges and folds are especially good at capturing speech sounds and funnelling them into the ear canal. Bigger ears are better at catching the sound waves, but it doesn’t necessarily mean your hearing is better than if you had smaller ears.

2. Sound direction

We have two ears so we can detect where the sounds are coming from. Each little fold plays a hugely important role in this ability to navigate our surroundings effectively. This is why you might feel a little off-kilter when one of your ears isn’t hearing as well as usual.

3. Protection

These folds and the overall design of our outer ears help reduce the wind and dirt and anything else that might otherwise get near to the delicate ear drum.

If you’re not sure if you’ve a little too much of that waxy build up and it’s causing you any problems - do book a visit to see me, Debbie at Turners Opticians in Fishponds, where I can use the latest technology to help you and also show you how your ears look on the inside!

Hope to hear from you soon!

Debbie Campbell is a qualified and experienced Audiologist, who has joined the clinical team at Turners Opticians in Fishponds having worked for many years in NHS Audiology clinics.

Staff and children at Muddy Puddles nursery and preschool in Mangotsfield

Amelia to the rescue

AN EMERSONS

Green PAW Patrol fan was inspired by her heroes to raise money for real-life dogs.

Amelia, in PAW Patrol mask, with McCluskey on the Harbourside

Amelia Crawford, who is six, saw an advert from the Dogs Trust about their PAW Patrol on a Stroll campaign, featuring the cartoon characters who carry out daring rescues.

The charity helps dogs in distress and finds new families for those needing a home.

Amelia, a Year 2 pupil at Emersons Green Primary School, decided to help by taking family pet McCluskey the husky on a 6km walk around Bristol’s Harbourside.

Dad Chris said: “She asked what the money would be used for and she was then driven to raise money to help the dogs.

“She has an affinity for nature and regular trips to Longleat Safari park are her favourite.”

Her family helped her set up a fundraising page for family, friends and classmates with a target of £50, which she smashed, raising a total of £200.

Chris said: “Amelia was ecstatic each time another donation was received and she wanted to know what the extra money would do.”

She is now set to visit the charity’s centre in Cardiff to find out how the money will help its work.

Cash boost for rec ground

PUCKLECHURCH Recreation Ground is among 13 sports facilities set to share more than £1 million of funding from developers for improvements.

South Gloucestershire Council announced a total of £1.17 million in funding in November, including a total of £113,689 for Pucklechurch Parish Council to help fund drainage and cricket improvements at the Recreation Ground.

The money has been paid by the developers of eight building projects across the district, including at Oaktree Avenue in the village, as part of legal deals required to secure planning permission.

Cleve Archers will receive £31,235 to fund the extension of its shooting shelter, install a wind turbine and buy new archery targets for its ground at Down Yonder, off Bromley Heath Road in Moorend, near Hambrook.

The biggest grant is £254,789 to Frenchay Cricket Club towards construction of a new pavilion at the Bob Stone Ground in Common Mead Lane, Hambrook. The club made a planning application to demolish its pavilion and replace it with a new one in August this year. The plan is awaiting a decision on permission. It follows an award of £624,322 of developer funding to the project last year.

Neighbouring Downend and Frenchay Tennis Club will receive £86,758 towards the construction of its new clubhouse, adding to £366,579 it was awarded last year.

Yate Town Council will receive £232,123 towards the conversion of the Howard Lewis Park tennis courts to a Multi-Use Games Area, and another £84,777 towards a ‘changing places’ welfare facility for people with severe disabilities at Yate Outdoor Sports Complex.

Council cabinet member Sean Rhodes said: “It’s important that housing developers contribute towards the infrastructure needed by growing communities.”

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Birthday buses are back after over a million free journeys

Thanks to West of England Mayor Dan Norris, local residents across the Emersons Green Voice area will once again be able to enjoy free bus rides throughout the whole month of their birthdays.

Birthday Buses are back and the Mayor says that he hopes the popular plan will go from strength to strength in its second year, after passengers took almost 1.2 million free journeys during its first year.

The Birthday Buses offer entitles every resident (young and old) in the West of England to take unlimited free bus journeys, at any time, across the 350 square miles of our region, throughout the entire month of their birthday. In addition, young people aged under 21 will receive a second month of free travel. The offer runs for 12 months from 1 December 2024.

Speaking at the Birthday Buses re-launch at a First Bus depot, Mayor Dan Norris said: “Birthday Buses has been a big hit with passengers so I’m delighted to

bring it back for a second year.

“Last year more than 72,000 passengers took, on average, around 19 free journeys each. That saved them almost £40 each in fares – not a bad birthday present!

“Even more importantly, people who tried out buses for free during their birthday month have started to make new habits. They are leaving the car at home and now using our region’s buses more often. That’s always been a vital end goal which is so important during the climate emergency.”

The more people that use the bus, the stronger the future for services in the West of England. A more sustainable and growing bus network has many benefits, including faster journey times for passengers and less congestion for everyone else on the road.

An independent report from auditors KPMG found that the first year of Birthday Buses helped cut an estimated 1,100 tonnes of carbon emissions. That’s equivalent to a petrol car driving more than 5 million miles. And for every £1 spent on Birthday Buses, the region saw £2.20 of benefits.

This year, Birthday Bus passes will also bring more birthday bonuses with discounts at local stores and tourism attractions.

In just the first week of registration, 26,500 people signed up. Emersons Green Voice readers can apply for their free Birthday Bus month pass at BirthdayBus.

We used Birthday Busesyou can too:

Howard: “I made over 20 journeys. It opened my eyes to routes I hadn’t considered.”

Karon: “It was a lovely gesture to have the pass and if I wasn't given it, I would not have done the journey.”

Georgina: “We applied for a birthday bus pass for each family member. We went to Bath, into town shopping, to an appointment and I increased my use of the office. My son and daughters could catch the bus to school everyday and had the freedom to go out with friends on weekends too. I have been using buses much more since.”

co.uk. Anyone who had a Birthday Bus pass last year will receive an email, which will fast track their application, with no need for a new photo or another form.

Dan Norris added: “I look forward to wishing even more passengers many happy returns and singles.”

LYDE GREEN COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION

Christmas for Kids – help families in need

WE are very excited this year that we are again running our Christmas for Kids project.

We understand that though Christmas can be a time of excitement and joy, for some this can be a time of financial worry, leading to debt and mental crisis.

We are asking our community and our partners to provide new or as-new wrapped gifts (tagged with what the item is, please!) to the community centre by December 6.

We will then run sessions when members of the community who are struggling to afford Christmas can come in and choose some items.

If you can help us out with a gift or would like to volunteer – either wrapping, sorting or helping to give out the gifts – then do please get in touch with fran@lydegreenca.org.

We are very grateful to Rocc, AA Woods, Bristol City Council, ALD Automotive, TLT LLP, McDonalds, Edward Jenner Court residents and Lidl for donating generously to this project.

A very special mention to Emersons Green Town Council for a substantial financial grant to this project. Without this support, we would not be able to assist as many members of our community as we know will need help.

Tickets are also on sale now for our familyfriendly New Year’s Eve Party. We are delighted that again this year we have a DJ, kids’ disco, free glitter bar and the fabulous rock and pop duo

One-Two Duo (facebook.com/OneTwoDuo2022). Do come and join us for an evening of fun!

If you would like to volunteer for future events, then please get in touch with us.

We are always looking for members of the community to get involved: this can range from serving on our board of trustees to volunteering

at a Christmas fayre.

You can contact us on Facebook @ lydegreencommunityassociation and @ LydeGreenCC, by email at info@lydegreenca.org or by calling 0117 957 0410.

For party or event bookings, email Bookings@ lydegreenca.org.

Happy Christmas from Emersons Green Baptist Church!

Christmas Eve carol service - Join us at 4pm this Christmas Eve in Emersons Green Village Hall for a short family friendly carol service followed by free coffee, tea, juice and mince pies. We have a live band, all your favourite carols and the Nativity story. It’s the perfect way to start your Christmas and celebrate!

Christmas hope - Christmas can ignite a spark of hope inside us, especially if we pause for a moment and reflect on why we are celebrating. God loved the World so much that he chose to send his one and only Son to become human, live among us and, most importantly, give us a simple promise of love and hope. Jesus was born to give us life in all its fullness right here right now today and a promise of life after death in Heaven for all who accept and believe in him. When you accept Jesus and invite him into your life you can find a new level of peace, happiness and optimism that you never dreamed possible before. Jesus arrived that first Christmas so that we could know what love feels like, real love – love that never leaves, love that never disappoints, love that is never ending. God sent Jesus into this broken world to bring us hope. A hope more amazing than anything we can comprehend. Now that’s a gift worth receiving this Christmas time!

Weekly services - Emersons Green Baptist church are a friendly bunch of local residents who meet in Emersons Green Village Hall for a one hour service every Sunday at 10:30am. You are very welcome to join us! Our first service in the New Year is on Sunday January 5th.

Our famous monthly craft services - We also run a regular family friendly craft service once a month. Come along to Emersons Green Village Hall on 9th February for our next one and join around 30 children with mums, dads, grandparents and carers spending an hour making a range of fun crafts. There are free refreshments, singing, a brief story and loads of fun!

Rainbow Tots toddler group - Rainbow Tots is our fun filled Friday morning play session for pre-school children. We meet every Friday morning from 10am - 11.30am in Emersons Green Village Hall. Bring your toddler along to play with loads of toys, ride-ons, puzzles, games, crafts, singing and fun! Free tea and coffee are provided. It’s a great opportunity for your little ones to have fun, socialise with other children and have a great morning out. There is a small charge of £4 per session and no need to book - just turn up one Friday and prepare for some fun!

Schools mark Black History Month

STUDENTS staff and parents at Downend and Mangotsfield schools held events to mark this year's Black History Month.

At Downend School the theme of the events during October was 'Celebrating Black Creativity', with organisers asking people to share a picture and write about creations from books and paintings to music.

Among the works celebrated were Alice Walker's Pulitzer Prize-winning novel The Color Purple, and Paul Roberson's performance of spiritual song Deep River.

Exhibitors were encouraged to include advice on how to learn more about the works, and music from vinyl records was played in the background.

Talal Khan, who is part of the school's inclusion team, said: "Many black creatives have used different forms of creative expression to tell stories of identity.

"Their creativity is a great way to broaden

our understanding of black identity. I wanted us as a school to come together and share the different forms of creativity that have inspired our understanding of black history, so that we can collectively learn from one another.”

Visitors to the exhibition included a mixture of students, staff and parents.

At Mangotsfield School an event was held jointly celebrating race equality and the International Day of Older People.

The evening event started with a presentation from South Gloucestershire Race Equality Network (SGREN), followed by Caribbean food, music from Nai Bimkudwa and a high-energy drumming session led by Zote Collective.

A highlight was the sharing of stories from the Bristol Bus Boycott by people who were involved in the ground-breaking protest in 1963 against a ban on employing non-white employees by the Bristol Omnibus Company.

Joyce Morris-Wisdom and Vernon Samuels shared their experience of their involvement in the campaign that helped bring about a law against racial discrimination.

Year 11 pupil Jasmine Ankahsaid she was “lucky” to attend the evening, adding: "It was an amazing experience and we thank SGREN immensely.”

Other activities across the school during a week of events included an interactive quiz treasure hunt based on key figures from black history, a 'carnival faces' glitter event and

shared reading of traditional African folk tales.

Trees within the school were wrapped in the green, yellow, black and red colours of the Black History Month flag, and students worked with canteen staff to help design a menu for the last week before half term that celebrated the school's diversity, while some Year 11 music students played DJ sets during lunch time in the canteen.

Mangotsfield School has 26 languages spoken within its community or pupils, staff and parents and celebrates a different one each term by encouraging students to learn some basics.

Last term’s language was Yoruba, from West Africa. This term the school celebrates the language of Mal, from South East Asia.

The Downend School exhibition

Bold idea wins nature award

EMERSONS Green’s Community Nature Reserve project has won an award for helping bees and other pollinators.

The Community Nature Reserve was set up in January of last year to encourage people to care for wildlife in gardens, parks, greens and verges across the area covered by the town council.

More than 240 residents signed up to make their homes part of the scheme, and can access advice at events and via a Facebook page, as well as a community seed bank at the library.

The project has now been recognised by the West of England Combined Authority, which presented a Bee Bold Award for community action to encourage pollinators.

Deputy mayor and chair of

the town council’s climate and nature group Bobbie Sunderland said: “We are delighted that the Bee Bold Awards have recognised the benefits of this project.

“A number of other areas of South Glos have been encouraged to start their own Nature Reserve having seen what has been achieved in Emersons Green.”

Resident Helen ParkerDrabble’s garden was one of those visited by the Bee Bold team.

She said: “If everyone who had a garden did something for

pollinators, we could make a massive difference.”

The award was presented to town council environmental services manager Paul Kearsley and Friends of Emersons Green Park deputy chair Sue Fenton by Metro Mayor Dan Norris at a ceremony held in Knowle in October.

The project was one of six from across the region singled out for outstanding effort to promote pollinators.

The Bee Bold Award was launched by WECA in 2022 to recognise organisations that are taking positive action to support

bees and pollinators.

Metro Mayor Dan Norris said: “Small and mighty bees play a huge part of keeping our environment and food supply going.

“The Bee Bold Awards are all about recognising the amazing work happening to make the West of England the UK’s Bee and Pollinator Capital.

“This year’s winners, from local community groups to global businesses, are taking vital action to see nature restored, reconnected, and recovering.”

WECA has a £1 million fund which has been used to engage more than 5,000 local volunteers and improve over 262 hectares of land for pollinators.

More information and a video on the Community Nature Reserve can be found on the town council’s website at tinyurl. com/vu5vapjx, where people can also sign up.

People who want to help encourage others to join the scheme can also email Bobbie at bobbie.sunderland@ emersonsgreen-tc.gov.uk.

WECA has a page dedicated to the town council’s award at tinyurl.com/5ef4cspf.

Paul Kearsley and Sue Fenton with Metro Mayor Dan Norris at the awards ceremony. Picture: Freia Turland

November 30

n ST JAMES CHURCH

MANGOTSFIELD CHRISTMAS FAIR, 10.30am-2pm in the Church Hall, Richmond Road.

November 30

n CHRISTMAS TREE FESTIVAL at St Thomas a Becket church, Pucklechurch, 10am-4pm, including stalls. Continues until December 6, from 2-4pm. Theme: ‘What Christmas means to us’. All visitors welcome.

December 1

n ST JAMES CHURCH

MANGOTSFIELD ADVENT COMMUNION, 10.30am. All Age Nativity on December 15 and Reflect Christmas Service on December 22 at same time.

December 2-20

n COSSHAM HOSPITAL LEAGUE OF FRIENDS will be holding their Christmas sale, Monday to Friday from 10am to 2.30pm in the hospital café until December 20. All proceeds go towards equipment for the hospital.

December 6

n ST JAMES CHURCH CHRISTMAS SING-ALONG, 6pm at the Church Hall, Richmond Road, Mangotsfield.

December 10

n SODBURY AND DISTRICT FLOWER ARRANGEMENT

SOCIETY wreath making evening, Old Grammar School Rooms, Chipping Sodbury, 7.30pm. Cost £7.50 plus materials. Booking essential. Contact katebryant186@ gmail.com for more information.

December 12-15

n CHRISTMAS TREE FESTIVAL at St James Church, Mangotsfield. Church open on Thursday and Friday from 11am-5pm, Saturday 10am-5pm, with events planned during the day, and Sunday 2-4pm.

December 12

n DAME SCHOOL CAROL SERVICE, outdoors at the corner of Richmond Road and St James Street, Mangotsfield, 6.30pm – all welcome.

December 12

n BRISTOL MILITARY WIVES CHRISTMAS CONCERT, Christ Church Downend, 7.30pm. With special guests the Emersons Angels choir, from Emersons Green Primary School. Family-friendly event. Tickets from bit.ly/BMWC-Christmas24.

December 13

n FILTONES CHOIR CHRISTMAS CRACKERS CONCERT, 7.30pm, St Andrew’s Methodist Church, Elm Park. Tickets £10 from choir members or at the door; school-age children free. Supporting charity Jessie May Children’s Hospice at Home. Call 07870 984760 for more information.

December 15

n CHRISTMAS MARKET, Badminton Road, Downend, 11am3pm. Artisan stalls, food, music, free

activities, face painting and Father Christmas – see page 28 for more details.

December 22

n CAROL SERVICE at St James Church, Mangotsfield, 6pm.

December 24

n CHRISTINGLE SERVICE at St James Church, Mangotsfield, 3.30pm and 5pm. Also Midnight Mass at 11.30pm.

December 24

n CRIB SERVICE, Christ Church Downend, 4pm. Short interactive celebration of Christmas for families, with Nativity dressing up. Also at 11pm, Midnight Communion: traditional communion celebrating Christmas night.

December 25

n CHRISTMAS MORNING SERVICE, St James Church, Mangotsfield, 10.30am.

REGULAR EVENTS

Monday

n PUCKLECHURCH SHORT MAT

BOWLS CLUB Meet every Monday, Wednesday evening 7.30 - 10.00 and Wednesday 3.15pm-6pm, Sunday 2.30 - 5.00. Refreshments inc. Ring John 0117 9372873

Tuesday

n RIDGEWAY BADMINTON CLUB meets every Tuesday Evening from 8-10pm at Downend Sports Centre for informal badminton doubles/ singles matches between adults of all ages. First visit free. More info from Graham on 07968 050320.

n PUCKLECHURCH FOLK

DANCING CLUB Pucklechurch Community Hall.Abson Road every other Tuesday from 7.30 to 10.15p.m. All welcome either with a partner or solo. Enjoy an evening with us. Call Sue on 07742114566 or Linda on 0784324014.

n MESSY SPACE at Badminton Road Methodist Church, Downend, 10-11.45am. Term-time group for toddlers and carers. Toys, books, crafts, singing and refreshments. First visit free. More information at badmintonroadmethodist.org.uk or 0117 956 1106.

Wednesday

n THE WOMEN’S SECTION OF THE ROYAL BRITISH LEGION We meet the 3rd Wednesday of every month at 2pm at the old school hall by the car park in Page Road Staple Hill. If you are interested telephone Madeleine Bills. 0117 9560805.

n MANGO JAMS BABY & TODDLER GROUP, meets at Lyde Green Community Centre, 9.15am10.45am, term time only.

n WARMLEY JAZZ CLUB, £5 on the door. Cadbury Heath Social Club. Doors open 7.30pm. More details at warmleyjazz.co.uk.

n FRENCHAY FOLK DANCE CLUB meets alternate Wednesdays, English and American folk dancing

to live music, 7.45-10.15pm, Frenchay Village Hall. New dancers always welcome. More details at www.frenchayfdc.co.uk or email FFDCSecretary@gmail.com.

n CLEEVE SINGERS OF DOWNEND Enjoy singing, then come and join this four part choir who meet on Wednesday evenings at Lincombe Barn, Overndale Road 7.30 p.m. from September until July. For more information contact the Secretary on 0117 9561881.

Thursday

n NEXT DOOR BOOKS welcomes new members. Book club meets on the last Thursday of the month at 11am, depending on numbers. Normally meets at Emersons Green library, email jessica.callaway@ hotmail.co.uk.

n COFFEE, CAKE AND COMMUNITY MORNING at Emersons Green Village Hall, 11am1pm. Free tea, coffee and cake - all welcome. Supported by Emersons Green Town Council.

n WALKING WITH FRIENDS, free group walks at a gentle pace around Siston Commons. Start and finish at Kingsmeadow@ Madeforever Community Centre, Fisher Road, BS15 4RQ, 1-2pm. For more details email kingsmeadowmade4ever.org. uk or call 07588 622 372

n SHORTWOOD VILLAGE WI meets on the second Thursday of the month at 7.30pm, at Shortwood Village Chapel, Main Road, Shortwood. More details from millhousejoinery@aol.com.

Friday

n PAGE PARK UKULELE CLUB, Bean Tree café, Fridays at 1pm. All abilities welcomed. Places £4 each. For further details call or text ‘Ukulele’ to Ben on 07910 668258.

n RAINBOW TOTS parent and toddler group meets at Emersons Green Village Hall on term-time Friday mornings, 10-11.30am. All welcome. For more details email church.egbc@outlook.com.

n MANGOTSFIELD AND CASTLE GREEN UNITED REFORMED

CHURCH regular coffee mornings, held on the first Thursday of the month, 10.30am-noon at the church in Cossham Street.

n LATER LIVE MUSIC, Resound church, Blackhorse Road, Mangotsfield. Every second Friday monthly, except August & December, 8-10pm, £2.50. More details at facebook.com/lateratresound.

Saturday

n STAPLE HILL METHODIST

CHURCH Coffee mornings in our beautiful building every Saturday 10.00-12.00 in aid of church funds or charities. Enjoy Fairtrade coffee, tea and cake, and stalls.

Sunday

n MANGOTSFIELD AND CASTLE

GREEN UNITED REFORMED

CHURCH hold regular weekly Sunday morning worship at Cossham Street. Services start at 10.30 a.m.with different speakers each week. New members very welcome. For more details please contact Peter Redding (Ch.Sec.) on 0117 9657075.

n BADMINTON ROAD METHODIST

CHURCH Sunday worship followed by sharing refreshments, 10.30am Service of Holy Communion usually fourth Sunday of the month, led by Rev Leigh Maydew. More information from www. badmintonroadmethodist.org.uk.

n STAPLE HILL METHODIST

CHURCH, High Street BS16 5HQ Sunday services 10.30am + Sunday Club for ages 5-17. Holy Communion 2nd Sunday of the month – all invited. Taizé worship 6.00pm 3rd Sunday of the month. Contact Rev Dr Aboseh Ngwana 07482 550888, Philippa Church Liaison at staplehillmethodist@hotmail.co.uk or www.staplehillmethodist.com

n EMERSONS GREEN BAPTIST

CHURCH services are held every Sunday morning from 10.3011.30am at Emersons Green Village Hall, Emersons Way. We also hold regular craft services. Contact Simon on 07765 201435, visit www.emersonsgreenchurch.org or Facebook page for more details.

n LYDE GREEN LITTER PICKERS meet at 10.30am on the first Sunday of the month outside Lyde Green Community Centre, Thistle Close. See www.cleanupuk.org.uk/groups/lydegreen-litter-pickers for information.

n SERVICES AT ST JAMES CHURCH, MANGOTSFIELD: 8am, holy communion. 10.30am, services rotate between all-age service (1st Sunday), morning worship (2nd & 4th Sunday), holy communion (3rd Sunday) and healing service (5th Sunday).

Fundraisers pass £150,000 milestone

A GROUP of fundraisers from Pucklechurch has been honoured by the NSPCC for its efforts.

The group has raised more than £150,000 for the children’s charity over 35 years, through events including auctions, suppers, coffee mornings, skittles evenings and sales of books, jewellery and bric a brac.

Juliet Hills, who founded the village NSPCC support group in 1989, said: “None of it would have been possible without the energy and dedication of our committee and the support of professional colleagues in NSPCC South West.

“The wider support of so many people in the village and beyond has been amazing.”

Emma Hildesley, NSPCC community fundraising manager, presented members past and present with certificates and badges commemorating a combined total of more than 250 years of volunteering.

She said: “This is a fantastic achievement.

“You have made a phenomenal contribution – and put the fun into fundraising.

“We are really proud of everything you have done.” Group members are not resting

on their laurels – four days after their celebration event they held another coffee morning.

Pucklechurch NSPCC support group members with their certificates

Brownies at the presentation evening

Brownies keep it quiet

A LYDE Green brownie unit held a sponsored silence and a cake sale to help keep the region’s air ambulance flying.

Members of the 3rd Kingswood Brownies helped the Great Western Air Ambulance Charity and also found out about its work and how to help in an emergency, to complete a challenge badge.

Their fundraising events raised just over £330 for the charity, which sent a representative to collect the donation and tell them more about the work of the air ambulance and its team.

Anyone who is interested in volunteering with Girl Guiding in the area should email jo@girlguidingbsg.org.uk for more details.

Military Wives sing

BRISTOL Military Wives Choir will return to Christ Church Downend to perform their annual Christmas Concert on December 12.

The choir will be joined by the Emersons Angels choir from Emersons Green Primary School as special guests at the concert, which starts at 7.30pm.

Bristol Military Wives Choir's 2023 Christmas Concert. Picture: P Reason

A spokesperson for the choir said: "This is a lovely, family-friendly event and, with many members from both choirs based in the local area, the concert is a great way to support the local community."

Tickets are available at bit.ly/BMWC-Christmas24

The choir is non-auditioned and rehearses every Tuesday evening in Mangotsfield.

It is open to women with a significant military connection, including serving personnel, veterans, wives, partners, daughters and sisters, and welcomes new members.

For more information email bristol@militarywiveschoirs.org.

The choir is making its debut at St George's in Bristol on December 22, when members will perform a Christmas Special by Candlelight, accompanied by Bristol Ensemble.

The choir recently joined Cardiff Military Wives Choir to perform at the Royal British Legion Wales Festival of Remembrance at the International Convention Centre Wales, and also provided three singers for the Military Wives Choirs single 'November Sunday', accompanied by The Band of the Household Cavalry.

BEECHMERE BELLES WI

CAN you believe this is our last message to you for 2024?

I would like to wish you a merry Christmas from the committee at Beechmere Belles WI, and we hope that 2025 brings peace, health and happiness to you all.

What a year Beechmere Belles have had.

There have been some really interesting, informative and funny talks; we’ve had some activities too, we tried our hands (or should I say feet) at Salsa dancing and scavenged for clues round Emersons Green.

And of course, we crafted. In fact, as is tradition now, our last meeting of the year in November was crafting macramé snowmen. We all have the same basic materials but always manage to go home with unique and beautiful creations.

It won’t be the last time we meet this year though. We’re getting together in early December for a Christmas ‘late and live’ event locally.

In the blink of an eye, it will be 2025 – and our busy and dedicated committee have planned a varied programme for our members –there will be talks, activities, crafts and some other things! January will start with a local Pilates teacher coming along to show us some basic moves.

We’re looking forward to that – she promises nothing too strenuous, just a nice stretch to

start the year.

We welcome guests to any of our meetings: it’s free for your first meeting (except for craft evenings when we charge £5 to cover materials).

We promise you a warm welcome, as well as tea or coffee and cake!

We meet at Emersons Green Village Hall at 7.30pm on the fourth Thursday of each month except December.

If you would like to know more about our WI, please contact us via email at beechmerebelles@gmail. com or follow our Facebook page, which is Emersons Green & Lyde Green WI Beechmere Belles.

RODWAY RUBIES WI

OUR November meeting was made musical by the Port of Bristol Shanty Crew, who give their time in support of the Teenage Cancer Trust.

Some of the Rodway Rubies ladies support good causes in other ways by knitting and crocheting twiddle muffs for Southmead hospital’s Dementia Care team to distribute to patients.

This has been an ongoing project for some years, and has been so well received by the team that they are going to display a few in the hospital atrium in the hope of encouraging others to knit for them.

Our ladies make blankets and tiny items for the Premature Baby Unit as well, also much

MANGOTSFIELD DOLLY MIXTURES

OUR afternoon of swing and jump jive with Hot Banana was a great success, and we raised £190 for The Jeremy Huggett Musical Foundation, which supports young musicians under 25.

Being held in the afternoon, it attracted Dollies and local people who don’t wish to go out or drive at night.

By the time you read this we will have been on our trip to Blenheim Palace, with a stop for breakfast at the Burton Farm Shop before joining the motorway and continuing our journey.

The day included a tour of the palace and Christmas lights in the early evening – we were advised that would be the best time to get the full effect.

Our wreath making evening is at the end of November, so we have been out finding places to forage for all the necessary raw materials. It is set to be quite fun evening.

In December the date is set for us to go to St James Church to set up our Christmas tree, which we are planning to make really colourful. There was a suggestion of a flask of hot mulled wine and maybe a mince pie, to keep the workers going!

Later in December there will be our Christmas lunch at the The Lamb; everybody has decided on their menu choices.

On behalf of the Dolly Mixtures, we would like to wish all readers and the staff of the Downend Voice a happy and healthy Christmas.

Carol Coombs

appreciated.

Our December meeting will be a social evening with an American supper and an accompanying local musician to entertain our members and get us singing too.

We organise other social events outside of our usual Monday night meetings, with a skittles evening in November and various craft gettogethers, sometimes with other WIs. In December we are having a floral wreath decoration workshop.

On January 31 we will be holding a quiz night at St James Church Hall in aid of our

nominated charity for the year, the Special Friends’ Club. There will be a charge per head, with teams of four to six people to support our fundraising.

If you would like to join us, we meet every third Monday at 7.30pm at St James Church Hall in Richmond Road, Mangotsfield. You will be made very welcome by Ruth, our new President, and all of the members of Rodway Rubies. Our email address is rodwayrubies@gmail.com if you want to get in touch.

Jane Eldon

We're growing fast

THIS year the u3a East & North East Bristol group has seen our local membership grow by 30% to over 350 members – that’s over one fifth of all members across Bristol.

Even better, we've had several new interest groups start this year, including a ukulele group, a “singing for pleasure” group, an “Eastside” cinema group, a group exploring local social history, a painting and drawing group, a table tennis group, and a weekend walking group.

The latest group to get started is a new soul music group which will meet in Downend Methodist Church from January (more in next month’s edition).

These are all in addition to around 25 interest groups that already meet locally.

Bristol u3a (you in your Third Age) is for anyone with some free time for themselves.

There’s no lower age limit, but most of our members are retired or semi-retired. Everything we do is by members for members. We have no staff, so everyone chips in with ideas for one-off social activities or brand new interest groups.

Any member can start a new interest group, and help is provided. We’d like to get more activities happening in Frenchay, Emersons Green, Kingswood and Hanham, so please get in touch if you have any ideas.

If you are simply curious about u3a, why not come along to an informal social to enjoy a cuppa and a chat with some current members? You don’t have to be a member to come along.

You’ll find us at the Market Café and Lounge, above Kingswood Indoor Market in Regent Street, on December 16 from 2.30pm and at the Crafty Egg in Fishponds on December 18 from 2.30pm. Watch out for news of additional monthly informal socials in Hanham and Frenchay in the New Year.

For more information contact learnlaughlive@bristolu3a.org.uk.

Lindsay Gough

BRISTOL u3a

CHIEF Fire Officer Simon Shilton has announced his retirement following a "turbulent few years" for Avon Fire & Rescue Service.

His successor could come from outside the service, after it was announced that applications from "leaders with comparable experience" elsewhere are being encouraged.

Mr Shilton submitted his resignation with six months'

Fire service chief to step down

notice in September, and the news was announced in early November.

It came after he acknowledged there was "still more to do" to improve the service, following new criticisms from inspectors.

The cross-party Avon Fire

Authority committee, which is in overall charge of the service, has been asked to commit £20,000 for an executive search company to find suitable candidates for a successor in his role, which has a salary of £164,351 per year.

The authority says it is

looking for a "Chief Fire Officer/ Chief Executive".

Its recruitment announcement says: "While an understanding of fire and rescue services and related public safety challenges would be advantageous, AF&RS encourages applications from leaders with comparable experience in managing large teams and budgets in similarly vital public safety or crisis management sectors.

"AF&RS particularly welcomes applications from diverse backgrounds and those from groups traditionally underrepresented in leadership roles, reinforcing its commitment to fostering an inclusive workplace."

Mr Shilton stepped up from the position of assistant chief fire officer in March 2022.

Announcing his retirement, Mr Shilton said: "After fulfilling 32 years of a lifelong dream to be a firefighter, it comes with a heavy heart that I have made the decision to retire from Avon Fire & Rescue Service.

"It’s no secret, it has been a turbulent few years for the service, but my unwavering goal and focus has always been to ensure the organisation is in as strong a position as possible for a much brighter, sustainable future, a future built on a foundation of achieving outcomes, embedding continual improvements, and doing the right thing, recognising the right thing isn’t always comfortable, takes courage and time."

His Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire & Rescue Services (HMICFRS) has published a series of critical reports on Avon Fire & Rescue Service.

An inspection last year found the service was 'inadequate' in areas including responding to fires, sexist and inappropriate behaviour among staff, and control room computer system “crashes” during 999 calls.

After revisiting in September, inspectors said the 999 mobilisation system had been fixed and good progress had been made over fire prevention and safety work.

But they said senior leaders need to do more to continue improving the service’s culture, following the introduction of an independent reporting line which had been badly communicated and caused distrust.

Open day success for railway modellers

THE very first Sodbury Vale Model Railway Club open day held at Lyde Green Community Centre was a success on all counts.

From the venue and layouts on display, to the interaction between demonstrators and the general public, all received positive feedback.

The open day in October

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offered a platform to get local model railway clubs and societies together so that they could network with each other, with the aim of inspiring future modellers, club members and volunteers.

Kitted out in their new Kelly Green polo shirts sponsored by GallifordTry, SVMRC members were easily recognisable to members of the public and were readily available to answer any questions or discuss any aspect of railway modelling.

Despite poor weather conditions on the day and the weekend closure of the M4 motorway, the event was well supported by over 200 visitors, including many family groups of children, parents and grandparents

Waste and recycling collections – Christmas and New Year 2024/25

from the area.

The event was a financial success, too, and enabled SVRMC to make sizable donations to Alzheimer’s, Cancer Research and Children’s Hospice South West charities.

SVMRC would like to thank all those members of the general public for their attendance, together with community centre staff and all volunteers who helped make the event such a success.

The next SVMRC event is being held at the Parish, YMCA and Community Halls in Station Road, Yate, on March 1 next

from 10am

OVER Christmas and New Year there will be no waste and recycling collections on Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year’s Day. The table below shows the temporary collection day changes for the festive period.

Collection dates can also be viewed on the council’s website www. southglos.gov.uk

If you don’t have internet access at home, there are computers free to use at local libraries or you can visit a South Gloucestershire Council One Stop Shop in Kingswood, Yate or Patchway.

Printed calendars are no longer delivered to all households. This helps the council save money and reduce waste. Please help share this information with family, friends and neighbours.

My collection day should be… My collection will take place on…

Wednesday 25 December

Thursday 26 December

Friday 27 December

Monday 30 December

Tuesday 31 December

Wednesday 1 January

Thursday 2 January

Friday 3 January

Monday 6 January

Tuesday 7 January

Wednesday 8 January

Thursday 9 January

Friday 10 January

Friday 27 December

Saturday 28 December

Monday 30 December

Tuesday 31 December

Thursday 2 January

Friday 3 January

Saturday 4 January

Monday 6 January

Tuesday 7 January

Wednesday 8 January

Thursday 9 January

Friday 10 January

Saturday 11 January

From Monday 13 January collection days will return to normal.

Check your collection day at ���� www.southglos.gov.uk/collectionday

year,

to 4pm. Hope to see you there!

Alan Simmonds

An OO gauge layout of Mangotsfield Station was on display

Raising the issues that matter to us

I HOPE you’re well and, like me, looking forward to the wide range of festivities across our community.

Thank you to fellow residents who’ve spoken with me and our team on your doorsteps recently – I knock on doors and listen all year round, so that I can serve you well.

In the last few weeks alone, I’ve had useful meetings with the Prime Minister, Chancellor and Education Secretary.

In each, I raised issues that matter to us locally – from challenges with getting NHS

appointments to support for children and young people with special educational needs or disabilities (SEND).

I will always champion what people need locally.

I was glad to see real change in these areas in our new government’s first Budget – including funding 40,000 new NHS appointments a week, £1 billion for SEND support and £500 million to improve the state of roads.

With our community being the home of aerospace, I was pleased that our new government is investing almost £1 billion in the sector, benefitting our area and beyond.

I have been serving on the Renters’ Rights Bill committee, going over the bill line-by-line to improve stability and security for thousands of renters locally and millions nationally, banning no-fault evictions and more.

I’ve also joined the cross-party group of MPs focused on SEND.

I joined up with HSBC and Girlguiding nationally to launch their collaboration promoting money skills and confidence, and continue to push for greater financial education for young people as the full Curriculum and Assessment Review takes place.

It has been fantastic to see even more of the impact so many of you have across our constituency, from the Three Brooks Parkrun and Callicroft Primary Academy’s autumn fair to Patchway’s fireworks, and the volunteers

selling poppies and putting together poignant Remembrance services.

It was an honour to join the parade and ceremonies in Bradley Stoke and Patchway, and to join in commemorations at the Commonwealth war graves at Christ Church, Downend.

I believe in working together to deliver the best possible impact. I was glad to meet with South Gloucestershire Council’s leadership recently to support this.

More widely, I’ve had useful meetings with local organisations, including with the teams at Boeing Defence UK, The Brightwell and Inclusive Change, Taylor Wimpey, Brabazon – including seeing Mitsubishi heat pumps installed for sustainable living – and the team helping NHS patients get seen more quickly at Practice Plus in Emersons Green.

I hold regular surgeries across our community, although I can progress most cases without you needing to give up the time to come to one.

You can contact me at claire.hazelgrove.mp@parliament.uk.

Claire Hazelgrove with Poppy Appeal volunteers Billy Wilde, Stephen Cross and Hannah Ince at The Mall, Cribbs Causeway.

LOCAL HISTORY with CHAP

TODAY we use wind power for energy, but two hundred years ago a man in Bristol was experimenting with using wind for mobility.

George Pocock (1774–1843) was an inventor, innovator and original thinker.

He even came up with a new approach to religion, making a tent big enough for 500 people to take a more evangelical form of Methodism to people around South Gloucestershire and North Somerset. This became known as ‘Tent Methodism’ and got him and his co-preachers expelled from the Wesleyan Methodists, but it only lasted for a few years (1814-1819).

Pocock was already busy with other things. As well as working as an English teacher at a school in Prospect Place, and being married with 11 children, he was fascinated with kites and their potential uses.

He experimented by trying to pull stones and then planks with kites, explaining: "I wondered and I grew ambitious."

He certainly did, going on to use kites to lift his pupils and his own son high up into the air.

In 1824, his daughter Martha, sitting in a wicker chair, was hoisted 270ft up over the Avon Gorge with a 30ft kite!

Thankfully she survived, and grew up to become the mother of famous local cricketer WG Grace.

Next, George worked out how to pull vehicles with kites, and in 1826 he patented the design for his ‘char-volant’ buggy (from

Wind power, 1820s-style

n Charvolant – a kite-drawn buggy, in an image from 1827

the French words for carriage, char, and kite, cerf-volant).

This used two kites to pull along a carriage

carrying several passengers at up to 20mph.

There were four control lines for the kites, a T-bar to steer the front wheels, and an iron bar to drop down with a lever, for braking.

Unsurprisingly, these novel kite-drawn carriages were hard to control, so they never caught on – even though Pocock promoted his invention as being cheap to run, because drivers wouldn’t need horses to pull them, or have to pay toll charges for ‘horse-drawn vehicles’ at turnpikes.

George had lots of other ideas for using kites, such as providing auxiliary sail power for ships, as a way of dropping anchor and helping with rescues from shipwrecks.

Sadly, no charvolants have survived, but the Museum of Bristol does have one of his kites.

Downend Community History and Art Project (CHAP) is a not-for-profit voluntary organisation that aims to produce a community history resource, a coherent identity for Downend and Emersons Green and encourage the local community to take part in its activities.

For more information visit www.downendchap.org.

Helen Rana

TIMES MONDAY-FRIDAY 8AM-5PM

DOWNEND Round Table's firework display has raised around £60,000 for good causes.

The show on November 8 drew more than 10,000 people to King George V playing fields, on a dry night of near-perfect conditions.

A Downend Round Table spokesperson said the event had broken records for ticket sales and other income, and is expected to make a profit of around £60,000, which will be donated locally.

An option for people to make an extra donation on top of their ticket orders raised an extra £4,000.

Among those who will benefit are the local primary schools who helped sell tickets, along with other groups who provided help including scouts, guides, cadets and Impact Dance. They will share around £10,000 between them.

Event charity Julian Trust will receive an additional £4,000 in memory of volunteer Alan Webber.

The remaining proceeds go into a fund which will be allocated to local charitable causes and community projects chosen by Downend Round Table.

People can contact ask@downendrt.co.uk for more information about how to apply for a grant.

This year's show had a theme, 'A Night at the Movies', with the main display choreographed by award-winning pyrotechnicians SkyBurst, accompanied by a light show and music from entertainers Party

Fireworks raise £60,000

Peeps.

It included a “flame show” aimed at younger members of the audience and light displays to complement the fireworks.

Downend Round Table chairman Paul wells said: "Yet again we have hosted a wonderful Fireworks Spectacular.

"This event has now taken place for over 50 years and is a key event in the diaries of the local community.

"We absolutely love bringing the community together for this fantastic spectacle and we are so grateful for the support of our sponsors C J Hole and Party

Peeps, all our volunteers, and especially attendees, as their contributions allow us to make a positive impact on our community."

After selling out in the previous three years, the organisers made changes to the site to allow for a larger crowd and said around 2,000 extra people attended this year.

A Round Table spokesperson said there had been some queuing at the main gate, and people were being encouraged to use all of the site entrances in future years.

A date for next year's show has already been scheduled for on Friday November 7.

The light show

The Downend Round Table organising team

Thanks to all who have helped this year

SUNDAY November 10 saw another fantastic turn-out for the Mangotsfield Remembrance parade and service at the War Memorial: long may it continue.

The less formal and quieter service of remembrance in the Red Lion, at 11am, was also well attended and is important for those who, for whatever reason, are unable to attend the main service.

Christmas will soon be upon us, so a reminder of some dates for the diary: we'll be installing the Dame School Nativity and Christmas lights, at the old school on the corner of St James Street and Richmond Road, on Saturday December 7.

On Thursday December 12, at 6.30pm, we'll have the Dame School carol service there.

Also from December 12 until Sunday 15th, the St James church Christmas Tree Festival will be on – details of opening times are in the 'what's on' section on page 42 of this paper.

As a community group it’s great to see another long-established part of the community, Mangotsfield United FC, thriving.

The team are having a good season and their new pitch and surround is nearing completion.

It’s a great asset to the community and we wish them every success going forward.

Our next monthly Red Lion coffee morning will be on Wednesday December 4 at 10am, and all are welcome. We are now getting a really good turnout, so why not come along?

We’ll sign off by wishing everyone a very happy, peaceful Christmas and make no apologies for using the same words we used last year: A big thank-you to everyone who has helped us over the past year, whether that’s through giving up their time, donating stuff, lending us stuff or offering thanks and encouragement for the work we do.

You know who you are and we are very grateful.

We have a small core of volunteers who have carried on doing their bit to make this part of the world a little bit brighter. Long may it continue.

If you want to get in touch, then please do so by email at MangotsfieldRA@gmail.com or via the ever popular Mangotsfield Matters Facebook page.

You can also telephone our chair, Clive Heath, on 07507 168700 or me on 07918 701881.

Chris Amos

n The Remembrance parade at Mangotsfield war memorial. Picture: Michael Bell

Clubs come together for contest

MARTIAL artists based in Lyde Green hosted their first children’s competition in collaboration with their sister club.

Children aged between five and 15 competed in patterns, sparring and special technique classes at the South West Taekwon-Do event, held at Lyde Green Community Centre on November 9.

The tournament started with youngsters aged five to seven, known as Little Dragons, before moving on to older and higherranked students of the Korean martial art.

All those who took part were presented with a medal at the end of the day.

Family, friends and club members helped out – from judging competitions to serving tea and cake.

Margaret Reader, whose son and two granddaughters train at the club, made more than 200 cakes at the event, which raised £600 to support students taking

part in elite competitions.

Instructor Vaughan Buxton, a 7th degree black belt and a British, European and World title holder, said: “This was a great opportunity for the students to gain confidence in a friendly and safe competitive environment.

“It’s about learning to perform under pressure and

Loft Boarding & Insulation

then look to progress to a larger stage, including national, at some point.”

Instructor Gavin Reader, who is a 3rd degree black belt, said: “It was a great day and the students had fun, which is the most important thing.

“We are grateful to everyone who helped out the day,

including those who came to support the children.

“Events such as this help fund and develop talent in the club.”

The Lyde Green club was formerly known as Fishponds Taekwondo Academy but has now joined with the Thornbury club under the umbrella of South West Taekwon-Do.

Gavin said: “I think this collaboration makes us stronger and we can share resources with our students.”

A new logo has been designed by club supporter and designer Angela Maggs, reflecting the martial art and Bristol connection by showing a martial artists making a flying kick over the Clifton Suspension Bridge.

SWTKD Lyde Green trains at Lyde Green Community Centre every Wednesday and Friday.

For more information, call Gavin on 07500 764276 or visit www.swtkd.co.uk.

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Young martial artists from South West Taekwon-Do

The 12 days of healthcare – holiday edition!

Welcome to the festive season, where treats abound and days are a little colder and a little busier. To help keep you feeling your best, we’re presenting the “12 Days of Healthcare” — holiday tips from each of our specialists to keep you moving, energised and pain free through December!

On the 1st day of healthcare

A chiropractor gave to me… The reminder to watch your posture when decorating the Christmas tree. Take frequent breaks, use a sturdy ladder for those top branches and don’t reach too far — it’ll keep your back merry and bright.

On the 2nd day of healthcare,

A physiotherapist gave to me… A stretch routine to warm up and cool down. The colder weather can make muscles feel stiff, so keeping up a few simple stretches will help you feel limber and prevent injuries on those chilly winter walks.

On the 3rd day of healthcare,

A sports therapist gave to me… Tips for recovery after holiday workouts. Ice and elevate sore muscles after vigorous activity (like that spontaneous family football match) and be sure to take a rest day when you need it.

On the 4th day of healthcare,

The Nutritional Therapist gave to me…

Advice on balancing treats with nourishment. Enjoy your holiday

indulgences but add some fruits, vegetables and proteins to help keep your energy up for the season’s celebrations.

On the 5th day of healthcare,

An acupuncturist gave to me…

A tip to calm Christmas stress. Gentle acupuncture can help relieve tension and improve sleep, so consider it if you’re feeling overwhelmed by holiday hustle.

On the 6th day of healthcare,

A nurse gave to me…

A reminder to stay hydrated. With all the warm drinks and holiday toasts, it’s easy to forget water. Make sure to drink enough each day, so your skin, mood and energy stay in tip-top shape.

On the 7th day of healthcare,

A foot health specialist gave to

Outstanding Cleve hammer Burnham

CLEVE entertained Burnham-on-Sea on a family day, with junior members out in force for a Halloween party.

The first team made sure they had plenty of entertainment on the pitch, putting in one of their most outstanding performances of the season to beat the visitors by 80 points to 15.

Cleve are riding high in the league and have been table toppers for the whole season. They opened their account very quickly in the opening few minutes, with Mitch Avery scoring. Matthew Jarvis stepped up to convert the try. He has a phenomenal record this season, having played six games and only missed two kicks.

Avery was enjoying his outing, racing

Foot care advice for those extra hours I’ll spend standing up. To cope with extra shopping trips and holiday parties, invest in supportive shoes and give your feet some TLC by stretching, massaging, or soaking them in warm water.

On the 8th day of healthcare, The chiropractor gave to me… Tips to avoid injury while lifting. If you’re helping Santa with gifts or rearranging furniture for guests, remember to bend your knees, keep your back straight and lift with your legs.

On the 9th day of healthcare, The physiotherapist gave to me… Balance exercises for stability. Practising a simple routine, like standing on one leg, can help

through tackles and supplying good ball.

Tom Pool was another who was showing great form, going through on the wing to score to make it 14-0.

Burnham had to defend hard on their line and had a breakout, eventually narrowing the gap to 14-8, but that was as close as they would get.

Harry Casson was another Cleve player making a telling contribution to the team effort. His lineout presence was creating good ball for the backs.

The scrums were also impressive, and Cleve's backs ran it Bristol Bears-style, with the wingers going over to score.

Cleve, when they had possession, moved it wide. When they lost possession Cleve continued to press Burnham into their own 22.

By half time Cleve were up 42-8.

This allowed a number of substitutions to be made, but Cleve were relentless in the second half. They continued to move the ball along the line but when it came to Matthew Jarvis he stepped through and scored, then converted his own try.

prevent falls, which is especially helpful if icy pavements are a risk this winter.

On the 10th day of healthcare, The sports therapist gave to me… Massage techniques to relieve muscle soreness. A gentle selfmassage or using a massage ball can ease post-exercise tension and keep muscles ready for the next holiday adventure.

On the 11th day of healthcare, The nutritional therapist gave to me…

Ideas for immune-boosting foods. Incorporate some seasonal veggies, lean protein and foods rich in vitamins C and D, like oranges and fish, to keep your immune system strong.

On the 12th day of healthcare, All of us gave to you… A wish for a wonderful, healthy and restful holiday season. Remember, we’re here to help, so if you have any health questions or needs, don’t hesitate to reach out.

Happy Holidays from all of us!

The scoreboard was continually moving: it didn’t seem to matter where Cleve got the ball as they cut through Burnham to score. Stephen Bateman

Action from Cleve's win over Burnham. Picture: Zoe Morgan

Unbeaten run ends before Cossham Street return

A DEFEAT at Tuffley Rovers brought to an end Mangotsfield United's unbeaten league run, which had stretched back to August.

The run had been all the more remarkable given that the Mangos have been playing all their fixtures away, while their new 3G pitch has been under construction.

Maybe the toll of being the visiting side constantly for three months was bound to affect things in the end, and the two games leading up to the 1-0 loss had been draws.

Having said that, the team then bounced back with a thumping 5-0 win over strugglers Lydney, and was still handily placed in in seventh spot in the Hellenic League table as the Voice went to print, with games in hand on all the teams above them.

The match at Worcester Raiders on October 19 ended 2-2.

In a lively affair, George Neill (38 minutes) and Mircea Llea (77) netted the Mangos' goals,

while Adam Hanson and Daniel Reka scored for the hosts.

Another draw, this time 0-0, followed a week later at Hereford outfit Westfields.

It was another hard-fought affair, where neither side gave much away and a draw seemed the fairest outcome.

With a weekend off in early

November, the Mangos returned to action at Tuffley Rovers and it was there that the long unbeaten league run came to an end.

The only goal in the 1-0 defeat came in the second half from Connor Walters. It had to happen sooner or later!

The Mangos got back to winning ways in emphatic fashion on November 16 with a 5-0 at Lydney.

Michael Barry put the visitors 1-0 up in the first half, slotting in a pass across the box from George Neill.

In the second half the floodgates opened and Mircea Ilea put the Mangos 2-0 up on 51 minutes, heading in a corner from Harley Purnell, before three goals from substitutes in the last half hour.

James White's deflected shot on 66 minutes made it 3-0 before prolific striker Lewis Powell scored twice, in the 70th and 85th minutes, on his return to the club.

With the pitch and associated infrastructure ready for the return to Cossham Street, the second half of the season holds a great deal of promise for the Mangos.

Dave Smale

Upcoming fixtures

(3pm unless stated):

November 23: Slimbridge (H)

November 26: Thornbury Town (H – 7.45pm)

November 30: Longlevens (H)

December 3: Royal Wotton Bassett Town (H – 7.45pm)

December 7: Pershore Town (H)

December 14: Hereford Pegasus (H)

December 18: Bristol City (GFA Trophy, A – 7.30pm)

December 21: Sporting Club Inkberrow (H)

December 28: Worcester Raiders (H)

A view through the net onto the new pitch at Cossham Street

Raising awareness and taking action

THE past month has been a time for awareness, reflection and renewal.

Remembrance Day, to remember those in the Armed Forces who have given their lives in the line of duty, has been followed by some important awareness weeks focusing on addressing harm, upholding justice, and fostering meaningful change.

Restorative Justice Week, AntiSocial Behaviour Awareness Week, and Road Safety Week all took place in the second half of November.

The first of these is an opportunity to raise awareness of restorative justice, encouraging offenders to take responsibility for their actions and understand the impact of their behaviour, allowing them to redeem themselves and discouraging future harm.

Restorative justice offers victims an active role in the justice process, helping to alleviate feelings of anxiety and powerlessness.

I am continually inspired by stories of success, where victims engage bravely in dialogue and

offenders acknowledge their actions, fostering genuine rehabilitation and community healing.

It adds to the range of support options available for victims, so everyone can find an approach that feels right for them.

Anti-Social Behaviour Awareness Week is an initiative to bring communities together against behaviour that has a profoundly unsettling impact on individuals, families, and communities.

It's an issue I frequently hear about from residents.

According to YouGov research, almost one in five people have considered moving home because of the impact ASB was having on them – and one in 10 have moved.

Despite this, over half of victims and witnesses surveyed did not report the behaviour.

One of the core commitments in my Police and Crime Plan is to address ASB through strengthened neighbourhood policing and community engagement.

I am encouraging anyone

experiencing ASB to report it, whether to local police or anonymously through Crimestoppers. When people speak up, it provides evidence of the scale and locations of ASB and is essential to providing an effective response.

Working with the neighbourhood policing teams, I’m committed to ensuring that those affected feel heard and supported, while also putting in place longterm measures to reduce ASB and strengthen community resilience.

Road Safety Week is a campaign from Brake UK, which reminds us of the impact on people’s lives behind the road accident statistics and calls for meaningful action to support road safety.

On average, five people die every day on the road in the UK and 80 are seriously injured. These are not mere numbers: each represents a family forever changed by the trauma of a road accident.

I've invited everyone in Avon and Somerset to get involved, whether by sharing your story, joining an

event, or supporting the efforts of organisations like Resolve West and Brake.

Let us embrace these opportunities to listen, to learn, and, most importantly, to come together in making our communities safer for everyone.

My survey asking for your views on the amount you would be willing to pay through your council tax for policing is still open.

You can have your say at tinyurl. com/34cj3xzu.

I hope you all have a great Christmas and a Happy New Year.

kumon.co.uk/emersons-green