Emersons Green Voice February 2020

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February, 2020 — ISSUE 41

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Library set for major expansion

Chris has a lot to celebrate

Community rallies to help dad Wayne A campaign to help family man Wayne Bryant from Mangotsfield, who has had a stroke, has had huge support.

PAGE 4 Emersons Green ward councillors Rachael Hunt, Judy Adams and Colin Hunt outside the library EMERSONS Green library is set for a major expansion to vastly increase the number of children’s books and other services.

South Gloucestershire Council is using £266,000 secured from Lyde Green housing developers for the extension, as part of an agreement to pay for community infrastructure improvements alongside hundreds of new homes.

It is not yet known when work will start or how long the library will be shut for it to be carried out.

The extension would cater specifically for young

people, with an expanded children’s library, and could include an area for quiet study for people of all ages.

Council cabinet members agreed the funding following a campaign by Emersons Green ward Conservative councillors Judy Adams, Colin Hunt and Rachael Hunt.

They said: “We are delighted that this funding will be used to fund an extension for the library, further enhancing our town centre.

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‘Think again’ call on tip changes Residents are calling for South Gloucestershire Council to rethink plans to buy land next to the Mangotsfield Sort It Centre as a base for recycling lorries.

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Bridal stylist wins award Hairdresser Stacey Jade Hayward, from Lyde Green, was recognised at the English Wedding Awards for her bridal hair and make-up.

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DEADLINES March edition deadline is February 12.

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

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Library set for major expansion From Page 1

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February, 2020

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 PUBLISHER’S NOTE Emersons Green Voice is independent.

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

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

COMPLAINTS

“The project is obviously in its early days, with funding having only just been announced, but we look forward to working with the council to ensure residents’ views are heard on how best to improve this important public resource.”

Writing on the Voice’s Facebook page, many readers called for money to be found for the library’s staffed opening hours to be increased.

Louise Taylor said: “Perhaps they would like to use it to pay for some staff to replace the ones that they recently made redundant, citing that the library could run unmanned. Just a thought?”

Emma Moorcroft suggested extra rhyme time and story time sessions for pre-school children, along with messy play sessions, while Victoria Stokes suggested making toilets accessible during times when the library is open but unstaffed.

A report to the cabinet said feasibility works were now

progressing with the full scheme to be costed and evaluated in the coming year.

The £266,000 is from Emersons Green Urban Village Ltd, a consortium made up from a number of Lyde Green developers and landowners, including Taylor Wimpey, Barratt Homes and Persimmon Homes.

Two years ago South Gloucestershire Council introduced the Open Access scheme, allowing users to visit libraries between 8am and 7.30pm, seven days per week.

But the council also cut back the length of time libraries were staffed by 30 per cent, to save £500,000 from its library budget, making some staff redundant.

It means many libraries are not staffed every week day.

Emersons Green Library is staffed on Tuesdays, Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays.

By Adam Postans, Local Democracy Reporting Service

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A FATHER who helped £100,000 for a skate raise park in Emersons Green has South Gloucestershireaccused failing to keep promisesCouncil of over its upkeep.

Gordon Clapp, from Mangotsfield, wanted a lasting memorial to his son was only 13 when Jamie, who he a plane crash in 2007.was killed in Mangotsfield School Jamie and his friends pupil loved skateboarding and BMX and Gordon campaigned riding, to help secure money from local councillors, South Gloucestershire Council the Big Lottery Fund's and Millions partnership, Peoples won after a public vote.

The concrete skate opened in 2011 with park garden, bench and a memorial a print of Jamie’s shoes.

The council agreed to inspect and maintain the park, which Gordon regularly visits.

But the BMX track next to it is now unusable, as the ramps Turn to Page 11

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A new slip road for the council tip at Carsons Road has been confirmed.

PAGE 12

Campaigners for the School braved drivingresource base at Emersons Green Primary rain to march to about proposals a consultation session for its future. Full story: Page 3

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More than 150 people came along to celebrate the first birthday of Lyde Green Community Centre.

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Footballer earns England call-up

Jennifer Smith, a student at Mangotsfield School, has been called up to an England football talent squad.

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PUCKLECHURCH PARISH COUNCIL Pucklechurch Parish Council is inviting contractors to tender for a two-year contract (with the potential to extend for a further year) for: • Grounds maintenance, • Maintenance of play areas, • Maintenance of other parish owned assets, • Other duties associated with maintaining the parish environment.

Please see the parish council website http://pucklechurchparishcouncil.weebly.com/ for further details or contact the parish clerk, email: parish.council@pucklechurch.org or telephone 07525 842095.

Closing date for tender submissions 5pm on 7th February 2020.

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‘Young people have been let down over skate park’

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February, 2020

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n NEWS

Boss: Ring road delays ruining metrobus THE boss of Bristol's biggest bus operator has made a scathing attack on traffic problems which are causing services to run up to an hour late.

First West of England managing director James Freeman says "appalling" delays on the Avon Ring Road have left metrobus services and other buses using the road "utterly gummed up" since the start of the year.

And he admits passengers can be forgiven "for thinking we're useless" as heavily delayed buses become overcrowded, leaving them unable to pick up passengers at many stops.

The delays come amid two major traffic projects – the ongoing experimental changes to the Hambrook traffic lights and roadworks at the Great Stoke roundabout near the western end of the A4174 in Stoke Gifford.

First has been running the m3 service from Emersons Green to Bristol city centre since 2018 and at its launch said it would provide a faster, more reliable service, thanks to a route using a combination of main roads, bus lanes and bus-only routes, and pre-paid tickets.

Mr Freeman, pictured, said a new £2.4m fleet of biomethane gas-powered buses had been introduced on the m3 route on the first Monday in January.

But he added: "By Tuesday, these splendid new vehicles were utterly gummed up in appalling delays on the A4174 Ring Road.

A journey that normally takes about 35 minutes was taking an hour and 35 minutes!

James Freeman "Not only is that frustrating for those on board, arriving at work late, in all probability, but it also means that the buses weren’t getting back to Emersons Green to operate their next trips."

He said buses were returning to Emersons Green more than 45 minutes after they were scheduled to start their next run.

"Then the buses were actually proceeding so slowly that they were picking up more passengers at each stop, so that there was no space left for people wanting to board at places like Hambrook – those people finding themselves left behind," said Mr Freeman.

He said more than £10 million had been spent on new buses, on top of the £230 million cost of metrobus routes.

But he warned: "It’s largely wasted if we can’t run the service properly or at all."

Mr Freeman said a way had

to be found to allow metrobus services to run through chronically-congested areas, adding: "Metrobus can’t work if we don’t realise that we must take urgent action."

He offered passengers caught up in the congestion "a most sincere and heartfelt apology" but said he feared the problems would continue until the next school holiday in February.

Voice readers have reported being made late for work and school after delays of more than an hour in their regular commutes since the turn of the year.

Writing on the Voice Facebook page, Louise Taylor said: "When they first announced the grand plan of a metrobus, I assumed, as in other cities, that the buses would have their own dedicated bus lanes. Travelling along the ring road with all the

other traffic was always going to go wrong. Did the people in charge not do their homework?"

Lindsay Cox said: "For once, I don’t blame First for this, the problem lies with the ridiculous Hambrook light changes. South Gloucestershire Council needs to acknowledge that this doesn’t work during rush hour, as any problems further into Filton make the traffic 100 times worse and it backs up to Emersons some mornings. This is NOT working and is in fact making traffic worse and spreading it out even further. They’re failing those of us who’ve made the choice to use public transport rather than put another car on our already-congested roads."

A South Gloucestershire Council spokesperson said: “With major new housing and business development planned in the area we are investing £160 million over four years on a number of highway improvement schemes to reduce congestion and emissions, improve cycling and pedestrian routes and make sustainable transport a more attractive option.

"We are working to minimise any disruption by keeping traffic moving where possible and carrying out work by narrowing lanes and only closing lanes at off-peak times. We are continuing to monitor and evaluate the impact of this work and have postponed, combined or brought forward some schemes, but unfortunately some disruption will be caused and we sincerely apologise to anyone affected.”

Man hurt in fire ONE person needed medical treatment after a fire at a house in Mangotsfield.

Avon Fire and Rescue Service was called to an address in The Croft shortly after midnight on January 16.

Two fire crews were called in to extinguish the blaze and treated a man who had been injured before handing him over to the care of paramedics.

South Western Ambulance Service declined to confirm whether he needed hospital treatment.

A fire service spokesperson said the firefighters checked the property using a thermal imaging camera before clearing smoke.

The fire is believed to have started accidentally.

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Community rallies after dad, 43, has stroke THE community is rallying round to support a popular Mangotsfield man who remains in hospital after suffering a massive stroke.

Wayne Bryant, whose nickname is Pasquale, was rushed to Southmead Hospital on December 5 following the attack which came on without warning.

Initially doctors didn't think he was going to pull through but Wayne is now showing signs of recovery, although he is still being cared for in a highdependency unit.

The 43-year-old, who lives with wife Jill, son Jack, 16, and daughter Molly, 13, now faces a long battle, with doctors still unsure of his long-term prognosis.

Friends of the family, many from Mangotsfield Community Association and Cleve RFC where Wayne is a member, have leaped to offer their support, setting up a JustGiving page and organising a weekend fundraiser in April.

Money raised will go towards rehabilitation and mobility equipment to help Wayne’s recovery.

Family friend Sandra Stone said: “Everyone who knows Wayne is really shocked. It was just out of the blue.

“Wayne is great fun to be around. He’s reliable and dependable and is a devoted family man.His children are quite sporty and he’s always there supporting them. It’s affected them massively but they are both being strong for their mum. Jill has been amazing, she’s an incredibly strong woman and is doing a fantastic job juggling everything.”

The attack happened the evening before the family were

Wayne Bryant with wife Jill and children Jack and Molly

due to move to Keynsham after living in Mangotsfield for more than 20 years.

Wayne had no warning and, although he experienced jaw ache, a common symptom of a stroke, believed it was just toothache.

Sandra, who lives in Mangotsfield with husband Simon and sons, Dan, 15, and Luke, 14, said: “It happened all of a sudden. His whole side just slipped. They phoned an ambulance which luckily only took 10 minutes and he was rushed to hospital.

“On the Saturday Wayne had a bleed on the brain so had to have an operation. He wasn’t given a particularly high chance of survival but he has fought back and is still with us. He’s still in a high-dependency unit and still can’t speak. He’s struggling to swallow on his own and is still paralysed on one side.”

Sandra said Wayne is having

POLICE are asking people with vulnerable family and neighbours to make them aware of two telephone scams which have left people conned out of thousands of pounds.

The first involves involves a fraudster claiming to be from online retailer Amazon.

The bogus official called the victims on their landline saying they were from Amazon and querying either an issue with a payment or a problem with the victim’s Prime membership.

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physio every day and once he can sit up and support himself he will go on to a stroke ward where he will receive more intense physio. Once doctors are happy with his progress, it is hoped Wayne will be sent to the brain injury unit at Frenchay.

Sandra said: “It’s a very long road ahead but staff have been fantastic. The prognosis is still unknown. It could be as mild as a lisp and a limp or he could be paralysed – we’ve no way of knowing at the moment. They won’t be even be able to start evaluating that until the swelling on the brain has gone down which could take months.”

Wayne, a contracts manager for Priddy, will be supported by a fundraising weekend organised by Mangotsfield Community Association. The Mango to Milano 24 hour spin bike challenge will take place over the Easter weekend of April 11-12 at the Red Lion pub in

Scam warning Police say they are aware of three incidents in the Avon and Somerset force area – two of the victims have lost a combined total of almost £15,000.

Police say if anyone is suspicious or uncomfortable about a call, they should finish it immediately and call the company who claimed to call you, using their official

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Mangotsfield.

People are being encourage to sign up for a 15 minute slot, to ensure they cover the distance between Mangotsfield and Milan, which is more than 900 miles. Wayne’s children have been allocated the first time slot.

The event will include bands, DJs and a donation barbecue.

People can make a donation online at www.justgiving.com/ crowdfunding/wayne-bryant Sandra said: “Jill is aware of what we are doing and just can’t believe how kind and generous everyone is being. She wants to send out a massive thank you to everyone who is getting involved.

“We’ve had an amazing response already and want to keep the momentum going.

The money will go towards rehabilitation equipment and whatever the family needs in order to get Wayne back on his feet, cheering on his kids on the sidelines again.”

number and a different phone.

The second scam is particularly targeted at elderly people and involves fraudsters posing as police officers claiming that the victim’s grandson had been arrested for using a cloned copy of their bank card, encouraging the victim to confirm their bank card details.

If you believe you have been scammed by a telephone caller, please contact police on 101, quoting reference 5219299839.

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February, 2020

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n NEWS GP SURGERIES are providing extra appointments as the NHS tries to cope with increased levels of illness over the winter.

Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG), which is responsible for paying for health services in the area, says GP practices across its area are providing a total of 7,000 hours more for appointments over the four months to the end of February.

It comes as Bristol’s hospitals reported that mounting pressures over the winter meant they were failing to meet targets to see emergency patients within four hours and waiting times for planned treatment were rising.

The CCG says that in South Gloucestershire, the number of hours available for appointments across all surgeries had been increased by 263 per month, the equivalent of 11 extra days of surgery opening.

But the time patients wait to have an appointment can vary considerably between practices.

According to the NHS GP Patient Survey for 2019, 41% of

GPs offer more appointments as NHS feels winter pressure patients of the Downend Health Group, which runs the Willow Surgery in Hill House Road and Christchurch Surgery in North Street, were able to book a sameday appointment, 23% waited more than a day but less than a week and 26% waited for a week or more. At Leap Valley Medical Centre, just 7% of patients were able to book a same-day appointment, 27% waited more than a day but less than a week and 62% waited for more than a week.

At Emersons Green Medical Centre, 25% of patients surveyed were able to book same-day appointments, 11% waited more than a day but less than a week and 53% waited more than a week.

Some patients responding to the survey couldn't remember the length of their wait.

A spokesperson for the CCG said more evening and weekend appointments were being provided to make things more convenient for patients and relieve pressure on busy hospitals.

He added: “In order to support access, especially during the colder months when people pick up winter illnesses, GP practices are providing 7,000 hours of extra appointments from November through to the end of February.

“Many practices are also embracing digital ways of serving patients, allowing patients to reorder prescriptions, access self-care advice, and book appointments through the NHS app. Some are also offering an online consultation service for their patients.

"We’re also planning to

work with practices to pilot and evaluate video consultations in 2020, and provide this as an option for practices to use in 2021.

“There are preventative steps the public can take to stay well this winter, avoiding a trip to a GP or other urgent care service altogether. Actions as simple as keeping warm, getting a flu vaccination and visiting a local community pharmacist at the first sign of illness all contribute to staying healthy.”

A CCG governing body meeting in January heard hospitals including the BRI and Southmead were "enormously pressured" over Christmas and New Year, with demand at A&E growing at a "really significant rate" and 19 people currently waiting more than a year for planned surgery.

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February, 2020

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Path plans are dangerous, say cyclists A CYCLING group says some of the changes planned for the Bristol and Bath Railway Path are "dangerous and likely to deter cycling".

Transport charity Sustrans is overseeing a £1.1 million improvement scheme for the path, which runs through Mangotsfield, Staple Hill and Fishponds, on its final stretch from Clay Bottom towards the city centre.

The path is used by thousands of people each day and is a popular route for commuting to the city centre by bike.

In December Sustrans unveiled radical design concepts for areas of the path where there were most likely to be issues between pedestrians and cyclists.

But the Bristol Cycling Campaign has raised concerns over some of the proposals, particularly those which include seating and other "obstacles" which the group says will "hinder rather than help" cycling on the path.

Bristol Cycling Campaign chair Nick Davies said: "Our members have been frankly appalled at some of the poorly thought out ideas to put obstacles or street furniture on the direct cycle route. Some of the proposals are both dangerous and likely to deter cycling."

In a detailed, 37-page response to the plans, the group argues for the path to be widened throughout its busiest section to enable separation of cyclists and pedestrians, calling for a three-metre wide cycling section alongside a 2m pedestrian lane.

Particular concerns were

The design concepts for the Clay Bottom 'wiggle' are among those criticised by the Bristol Cycling Campaign raised over the possibility of seating at the sharp bends at Clay Bottom, changed to the pedestrian crossing near Whitehall Primary School, and changing the direct route of the path near Easton Community Centre as well as adding a series of raised tables in contrast colours.

In its response the group said: "Conflict between different users is inevitable at busy times on a shared-use path; only effective separation of modes will alleviate this."

The group also said that while there had been a focus on 'speeding cyclists' in the consultations, they represented a "very small percentage" path users and said speeding was "a subjective term".

Its response said: "We will oppose any measures which

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deter cycling (and some of these designs do). That will only increase motoring in east Bristol, with adverse consequences for the local community and the climate."

Sustrans South area director James Cleeton said: "We are grateful to the Bristol Cycling Campaign for taking the time to put together such a considered response, which we will take into account in the work that follows.

"The aim of this project is to create a safe and inclusive space for everyone – including people riding bikes – in line with the community vision. This is what we’re working towards and why it’s so important that we hear from as wide a range of voices as possible.

"The concept sketches we consulted on came about after an extensive engagement process

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and represented the thoughts and ideas we had heard from the community so far. They’ve prompted debate and further engagement, which is all very useful and has given everyone engaged in the project a lot of food for thought.

"We will continue to work on designs for improvements to the path, including looking at the feasibility of widening – and other options – within the scope and budget for this project. We would welcome a meeting with the Bristol Cycling Campaign in the weeks to come and look forward to further engagement with the wider community too.”

Sustrans will be running an update workshop on the co-design project at Easton Community Centre on February 24, from 5-7pm.

The Sustrans plan can be found online at bit.ly/2sysdpX and the Bristol Cycling Campaign response is at bit.ly/bcycbbrp. n A CYCLIST was stabbed as he was attacked by muggers on the Bristol and Bath Railway Path.

He was jumped near to where the path passes under Forest Road in Fishponds, between Morrisons and the Staple Hill Tunnel.

Police said a knife was later recovered from the scene of the incident.

Police patrols have been increased on the path and officers have called on people to contact them if they see anyone suspicious on the path.

Police said the victim was a man in his 30s who was cycling home from work along the path at about 7.15pm on December 18.

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February, 2020

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n NEWS AN out-of-school club in Lyde Green is delighted to have received a positive Ofsted rating for its first inspection.

Mangotsfield Out-of-School Club (MOOSC) is based at Emersons Green Primary School, Mangotsfield Primary School and Lyde Green Primary School.

The Lyde Green Primary School club was visited by an Ofsted inspector on December 4, following their opening in June 2017.

The Emersons Green and Mangotsfield clubs are both currently rated as Outstanding, however following changes to Ofsted’s framework in September 2019, the rating system for after school clubs has now changed to either ‘met’ or ‘not met’.

Following a positive inspection, Lyde Green has met the requirements, with inspectors praising their “highly stimulating activities and experiences”, the staff who “know the children very well and ensure that their individual needs and interests are consistently catered for” and the fact that “parents are extremely complimentary about the club and comment that their children love coming.”

MOOSC is managed by Play Manager Kate Cole and is run by a committee of parents. Children from reception age can enjoy activities such as crafts, painting, cooking and sports before and after school, as well as during the school holidays as part of their holiday clubs at Emersons Green Primary School and Lyde Green

Lyde Green’s out-of-school care for children wins praise

Primary School.

MOOSC employs 27 members of staff, who run a breakfast club and after school club at each site, and children from neighbouring schools such as Blackhorse, Stanbridge, Kings Oak and Barley Close can also attend their holiday clubs.

Speaking about the inspection, Kate said: “19 years ago I was approached to set up MOOSC, and we started with just five children. We now have over 600 registered with us across our three clubs, and the feedback from our committee has been

great and shows that we’re doing a great job.

“We’d been waiting for OFSTED to come and visit Lyde

Green for a while, and they finally visited on December 4. If you read the report the comments are essentially the same as previously being rated as Outstanding and we’re really proud of it. Our Lyde Green club has been growing very quickly, and we have focussed on creating a fun, relaxing social space for children to spend time with their friends. They can take part in outside and inside activities, and our staff have just as much fun as they do!

“Our staff are really excited to have received such a positive rating, and parents have been really supportive too.”

To find out more about MOOSC, visit: www. mangotsfieldoosc.org.uk To read the Ofsted report, visit: reports.ofsted.gov.uk/ provider/16/EY547524

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February, 2020

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Back to drawing board for planning SOUTH Gloucestershire Council is abandoning a blueprint for 105,000 homes across the West of England.

Council leader Toby Savage says the authority will formally withdraw from the Joint Spatial Plan at its full council meeting in February.

It follows years of costly cross-border collaboration between the four neighbouring unitary authorities, including Bristol and Bath & North East Somerset, which ended in disarray when planning inspectors rejected it last summer.

The inspectors highlighted “fundamental concerns” with the joint spatial plan – a document setting out where 105,000 homes would be built by 2036 – and demanded “radical” changes.

They admonished the four councils for trying to make the evidence fit into their housing, jobs and infrastructure strategy, rather than being led by it, and

ordered them to go back to the drawing board.

The JSP included plans for five new major developments in South Gloucestershire, all of them north of the M4.

Earlier this month, North Somerset Council became the first to officially pull the plug on the JSP and instead push ahead with its own local plan.

Bath & North East Somerset Council has since also pulled out.

Conservative Mr Savage told fellow South Gloucestershire cabinet members at a meeting on January 13: “We will be considering a similar report to North Somerset at the February full council meeting and, it would seem, make that formal decision to withdraw from the JSP process.

“We will need to continue working jointly with our neighbouring authorities, not least because of the legal duty to cooperate but also, in the case of Bristol and B&NES, we work

together through the West of England Combined Authority.

“In terms of the split between what will sit in any new strategiclevel document and what will sit within our own local plan, that is still to be discussed and decided.

“The offer continues to be open through the policy advisory group (PAG) process to ensure opposition members have the opportunity to engage and participate.

“We are in the new year and I would hope for a new approach from all members to ensure we are able to work together as we bring forward the next stage of planning for the future of South Gloucestershire and the wider region.”

At a council meeting in October, Labour group leader Pat Rooney said her party would no longer take part in crossparty talks through the policy advisory group because “all trust had broken down” with the Tory administration, as a result

of previous decisions arising from PAG discussions. She said Labour would hold separate meetings with council officers.

Liberal Democrat group leader Claire Young said her group would need to see the PAG's terms of reference in writing before moving any further forward.

A council spokesman said the JSP was “not viable in its current form” and the authority is already drawing up its own local plan.

A spokesman said: “We remain committed to working with our three neighbouring West of England councils and the West of England Combined Authority on the best way forward for the region, to positively address its strategic planning needs.

“We do know that we need to find space to build homes for the growing number of people of all ages who want to live and work in South Gloucestershire.

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emersonsgreenvoice

February, 2020

9

blueprint “That demand hasn’t gone away and we have a legal duty to work to meet it.

“Our new Local Plan will set out how we plan to meet those needs, as well as for space for employment land and the infrastructure that will support growth and other improvements.

“However, we will not be using any new process to simply represent all of the proposals that were looked at through the JSP unchanged.

“We want our entire community to be involved in the development of the new Local Plan and we remain committed to plan-led development designed to meet local needs and we will continue to resist speculative applications from developers who do not share our vision to keep South Gloucestershire a great place to live and work.”

Bristol City Council is yet to announce a decision on the JSP. A Weca spokesperson said:

“Weca remains committed to working with the four West of England councils on the best way forward for the region to

positively address its strategic planning needs.

“Weca and the councils will be jointly commissioning a

refresh of the strategic evidence base.”

By Stephen Sumner, Local Democracy Reporting Service

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10 8

February,2020 2020 February,

n ADVERTISING FEATURE

New Head joins Royal High School

R

OYAL High School Bath has welcomed Mrs Kate Reynolds as its new Head of School.

Mrs Reynolds moves from Leweston, where she has been Head since 2015 and was previously Head of International Boarding whilst teaching English and Drama – before that, she taught at Sherborne, and Gillingham School. Mrs Reynolds has a commercial background, having practised Law and brings a breadth of experience to her role.

“There is so much to celebrate at Royal High School Bath," Mrs Reynolds said. "Friendly, engaged and curious girls, supportive staff who go the extra mile because they care hugely about the school, and an exciting and challenging learning environment.

"The girls’ energy and determination yet down to earth groundedness makes for a very special school of which we should all be proud. I am humbled that I

can be part of such a remarkable establishment."

Royal High School Bath is preparing to welcome girls and their families to their Open Days where visitors can explore the school, talk to staff and pupils and meet Mrs Reynolds and new Head of Prep School, Mrs Claire Lilley.

Meet the Head Do you still do any hands on teaching?

My ideal day involves some time in the classroom. If I am not teaching, I will cover a lesson for a colleague so they can observe other lessons or complete some planning or research. Mustering for a fire practice with a Reception class covered in glue and cotton wool after one disastrous cover lesson at my former school reminded me of the incredible job our teachers do day in day out with our children.

What are the qualities of a good

teacher?

Passion. The joy of the independent sector is that as passionate teachers we can enrich our students way beyond any constraints of a national curriculum. Young minds are phenomenally elastic and to imbue them with curiosity and a love of learning is critical if they are to become lifelong learners.

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emersonsgreenvoice

February, 2020

n NEWS AN aspiring racing driver from Emersons Green has had more success in the Castle Combe Saloon Car Championship.

Matt Parr, who works for Dick Lovett in Cribbs Causeway, started racing two-stroke gokarts when he was 18. After four years, he moved into sprint racing, where the aim is to drive a road car around a track or circuit in the quickest time possible.

In 2017, Matt was offered the chance to do a test in a race car

by Grant Motorsport, who are based in Warmley. He joined the team and was entered into the 2018 Saloon Car Championship at Castle Combe circuit, which is based on four classes from A to D (depending on the power of

11

Matt’s back on the podium the vehicle). He took the overall championship by just one point and finished third with the lead in class D. Moving on to the 2019 season, Matt won nine races in class C with no testing, and finished second overall with four points.

Matt previously raced in a specially modified Citroen Saxo in class D, and he has now moved onto driving a Peugeot 106 GTI, which he pays to rent and have maintained for him by the team.

He said: “I’m proud that we won our class, especially as it was only my second year in my own car. I’m going to go back in 2020 to try and do it again once the season starts in April.

“In terms of my future plans I am looking to move into the TCR touring car championship in 2021/2022, but it depends on money and sponsors. I rely on sponsors as I don’t have the

capital myself, and I currently work with local companies such as KP Garage and Body Shop in Westbury, Bristol Soda-Blast and Vinyllux, and I would love to hear from local businesses who would be interested in supporting my ambitions.”

To keep up to date with Matt’s progress, follow him on Instagram: @mparr37. If you are a local business that is interested in sponsorship opportunities, please contact Matt by emailing: mattpar863@ gmail.com

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emersonsgreenvoice

12

February, 2020

n LOCAL HISTORY

Falling on hard times in the 19th century BY the early 19th century the system of poor relief, introduced in the reign of Elizabeth I, was breaking down completely as the number of hungry mouths to feed increased.

In the Mangotsfield parish, by 1801, there were 2,497 inhabitants; by 1831 the population had increased to 3,508.

Savings were made by cutting back or stopping some paupers' pay. Second-hand shoes were issued and dog owners were

Historian and Mangotsfield Residents Association member David Blackmore continues his history of the village's workhouses with a look at the end of the poor relief system barred from relief.

In January 1801 a third of paupers' pay was replaced with a food ration, including peas and beef from Bristol market. The Napoleonic wars had seen the cost of grain rise by almost 400%, so a

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cheaper alternative to bread had to be found to feed poor children.

Ann 'Nanny' Jones, then in charge of the Poorhouse children, was allowed a sack of potatoes for them.

The average annual poorrate was 7s 0d per head of the population. It was paid for by local taxes on the middle and upper classes, and there was a suspicion among some of them that they were paying the poor to be lazy and avoid work.

With churchwardens legally responsible for residents who moved to another parish and having to take them back if they became unemployed, any poor family moving into Mangotsfield without a certificate from their own parish would be forced to move back. Vagrants were passed on to another parish, especially pregnant women, whose children would become a charge on the parish.

A surprising number of unknown strangers died while passing through.

Always looking at saving money, the parish spared the cost of buying a new plot of land for burials by turning the poorhouse garden into a graveyard from 1802, for burying inmates whose families could or would not organise funerals for them. The burial would be in the cheapest possible coffin and usually in an unmarked grave, into which several coffins might be placed. Pauper funerals were often without mourners as, despite repeated invitations, the inmates always declined to attend funerals.

In 1833 the parish vestry finally decided that Mangotsfield’s existing workhouse needed replacing. New trustees were approved the following year and the new Mangotsfield Workhouse was built in 1835, at a cost of £1,100, with the old building in Mangotsfield Street (St James Street) sold for £240.

The second Mangotsfield Workhouse was “on three acres of land alloted on Mangotsfield Common”, bounded by Windsor Place, Richmond Street and Mangotsfield Street (St James

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Street). The foundations of the building are likely to now be in the back gardens of houses in Richmond Road and Balmoral Court.

The daily routine for Poorhouse inmates, as prescribed by the Poor Law Commissioners in 1835, saw them rise at 6am, work from 7am until noon and then 1pm until 6pm in spring and summer, rising an hour later in autumn and winter.

There were three meals a day and bedtime was 8pm.

On Sundays, Good Friday and Christmas Day no work was done, except the necessary household work and cooking.

A new Poor Law was introduced in 1834 to ensure that the poor were housed in workhouses, clothed and fed. Children who entered the workhouse would receive some schooling. In return, all workhouse paupers would have to work for several hours each day.

People could now only get help if they were prepared to live in a workhouse.

In 1836 Mangotsfield became part of the Keynsham Union of amalgamated parishes under the new Poor Law. A new poorhouse was completed in Keynsham in 1837, leaving the second Mangotsfield Workhouse redundant by 1842, when it was put up for sale.

The building was let out as tenements but by 1885 the parish vestry was told that the building was falling to pieces and beyond economic repair. Demolition was suggested but the building was still standing when the vestries were disbanded in 1894.

Discussions continued among the parish council and occasional repairs were made over the next 20 years, until in 1915 it was finally decided to demolish the building.

Despite this, a family of three adults and six children was still living there as demolition took place, ignoring a notice to leave and eventually being prosecuted for child neglect. A police constable who visited said the premises “were not fit for pigs to live in”.

It would be another 12 years before anything was done with the site, with Mangotsfield Urban Council voting in May 1927 to build eight houses on the centre of the old poorhouse land, with more following over the rest of the 1920s and 1930s, changing the village forever.

Got News? Call Linda On 0777 0700579

emersonsgreenvoice

February, 2020

13

n NEWS

'Think again' call over changes at tip RESIDENTS are calling for South Gloucestershire Council to rethink plans to buy land next to the Mangotsfield Sort It Centre and use it to base recycling lorries.

The Voice reported in November that the council’s cabinet had approved a £6 million revamp of waste collection services, which included spending £600,000 to build a separate slip road to take traffic queuing for the recycling centre off Carsons Road.

The council said it would also use land next to the tip – which it planned to buy at "above market value" - to relocate the Cowhorn Hill vehicle depot, which has been subject to noise complaints, from Warmley.

People living near the Sort It site in Carsons Road have complained for years about queuing traffic causing a hazard outside the centre.

But they claim the council's plans don't tackle the source of the current problems and could actually make things worse.

Siston Hill resident Stewart Hadley-Clarke has posted a petition on the council website calling for it to review its "poorly thought out plans" and delay buying the field next door, which the council plans to do by April, until further assessments and "easier site improvements" are made. He says the new slip road could be provided by using common land next to the site.

Stewart also argues that that the main reasons for delays are the placing of weighbridges that

Siston Hill residents Dawn Porter, Kate Goodwin and Stewart HadleyClarke outside the Mangotsfield Sort It centre dustcarts and recycling lorries have to use near the entrance to the site, which means the vehicles queue out into the road, and the failure to give members of the public planning to visit the site and indication of when it is busy via webcams, social media and electronic signs.

Stewart said: "Sadly the council's latest plans don't involve any real changes to the current site and they don't address the main issues. The proposed slip road will be for both refuse and public vehicles and then somehow the new vehicle depot has to also be fitted in. Present problems will simply

be compounded rather than being suitably resolved."

Residents say up to 120 vehicles – 30 refuse trucks and 90 staff cars – would park at the new depot.

Kate Goodwin, who has lived on the Siston Hill estate for 12 years, said: "It feels like we're getting a known problem from somewhere else moved here."

Dawn Porter, who has lived in Siston Hill for 11 years, said: "There needs to be consultation before the decision is made, not after."

A council spokesperson said: “We are committed to improving access to Mangotsfield Sort It

Centre and reducing congestion by creating a dedicated slip road to the site. This follows feedback from local residents and members of the public asking us to do so.

“We are unable to do this with the land we currently have available due to the geographical features of the area, the width and sweep of the highway, drainage and the need to maintain safe access to other properties. Because of this we need to purchase an area of private land adjacent to the current site.

“It is planned that the new slip road will be completed in 2021, subject to the purchase of the land and planning consent.

Purchasing the additional land also presents an opportunity to relocate some vehicles from our Cowhorn depot to the new site, with the remaining vehicles being transferred to Filton.

“Locating these vehicles next to the Sort It Centre will help reduce emissions and traffic, as the vehicles already regularly use Carsons Road. Our plans are at an early stage and any changes would not take place until 2023.”

The council is organising a meeting for residents to discuss the changes on February 19 at 5.30pm at Warmley Community Centre, a roadshow on February 21 from 10am to 4pm on the green at Ridley Avenue, Siston Hill, and a site tour and meeting at the Sort It centre on April 14 at 5.30pm. The petition can be found on the council website at bit.ly/2FYxM46.

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emersonsgreenvoice

14

February, 2020

n NEWS

Nursery class 'unsustainable'

A PRIMARY school is set to close its nursery class – but hopes to find an alternative provider to run an on-site preschool instead.

Barley Close in Mangotsfield is one of only two schools in the area to run a teacher-led nursery class but almost half of the 60 places are unfilled and the If confirmed, the change school's governing body says the would take effect from April 1. situation is "unsustainable".

Changes in preschool South Gloucestershire provision have seen a decline Council has announced a in the demand for nursery consultation on the proposed school places, with most move, with anyone who13/3/19 wants to11:54 providers mrSTAPLEhill(0319)1PP Page 1 now from the private, have a say given until February voluntary or independent sectors 14 to do so.

(PVI), including 140 in South

Gloucestershire alone.

The council said: "At Barley Close, the current number on roll in the nursery is 34, while 26 places remain unfilled.

"The cost of running the nursery is met from the school budget, which leads to the danger of having to subsidise

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the nursery class from the main school budget, reducing available resources for 4 to 11 year olds.

"The governing body of Barley Close School has concluded that this position is unsustainable and that, therefore, the current nursery close should close and alternative arrangements made.

"The intention is that, following local discussions and the identification of an appropriate provider, a PVI group should be involved to set up a pre-school group with the premises of Barley Close School.

"In this way, more effective and flexible provision could be made for local preschool age children in close cooperation with the school but without the current adverse impact on the school budget for school-aged children.

"There are no plans to make other changes in the organisation of the school and the governing body. Leadership and staffing arrangements will remain as they are. Discussions will take place with the staff currently working in the nursery class and their future deployment."

People who want to comment on the proposed change should email CAHBusinessSupportBMR@ southglos.gov.uk or write to South Gloucestershire Council Department for Children, Adults and Health, PO Box 1955, Bristol BS37 5AF, by February 14, marking correspondence for the attention of Tanya Smith.

At the same time Kings Forest Primary School, in Station Road, Kingswood, is applying to open a nursery class for three and four year olds.

Comments on its plan can also be made to the same address.

Let us know your views via our Facebook page

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Got News? Call Linda On 0777 0700579

emersonsgreenvoice

February, 2020

15

n NEWS

Mum warns of the dangers of Nerf guns A MUM from Emersons Green has spoken out after she was temporarily blinded by a Nerf gun.

Leanne Polis has lived in Emersons Green with her two children, aged 9 and 15, for four years. Before Christmas, she went ‘temporarily blind’ after her daughter accidentally shot a foam dart from a toy Nerf gun at her face, which caused her left eye to swell. Nerf guns are made

by Hasbro, and they fire a range of foam darts, discs or balls.

Following the incident Leanne said that she experienced excruciating pain and flashing lights, and was also unable to see. After making an appointment at Bristol Eye Hospital, she was told by doctors that her iris had been damaged and that she could suffer longterm eye problems.

Speaking to Emersons Green Voice about the incident and giving an update on her condition, Leanne said: “I

want to ensure that parents understand the potential dangers of the Nerf gun, and take care not

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to aim it near the eyes or face. I think children and adults should also wear protective equipment

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when using them too.

“I damaged the middle layer of my eye with internal bruising, which developed uveitis, and I am still administering eye drops following a check-up at the hospital. My eyesight is still blurry with disturbed vision and some light sensitivity.”

A spokeswoman for Hasbro said: “Nerf packaging and instructions include warnings re: product usage. Consumers should not aim Nerf blasters at a person’s eyes or face, should only use official Nerf darts, and never modify darts or blasters.

“Consumers should be aware that unofficial darts from other manufacturers, claiming to be Nerf compatible, may not meet safety standards or regulations.

In addition, the use of eyewear is suggested when using Nerf blasters.”

For more information about how to use Nerf guns safely, visit: www.nerf.com.

Got News? Call Linda On 0777 0700579

emersonsgreenvoice

16

February, 2020

n AROUND THE WIs MANGOTSFIELD WI Happy New Year!

Our January meeting was all about friendship.

This meeting gave our members and visitors the chance to speak with everyone.

Combined with the opportunity to win prizes, this proved to be a very social night indeed!

We kicked off the year by welcoming some new members.

There were lots of events for us to pop in our diaries and look forward to.

Looking ahead to our next meeting, on February 24, Regression and Past Life Therapies, with Del Blay, will be a great talk. Del will tell us more about hypnotherapy and the benefits we can all get from it.

Also, past life therapy is a new one to me, so I am very excited to learn more.

If you would like to come along to one of our monthly meetings, you do not need to know anyone.

We will welcome you and assign a WI member to guide you through the evening. You will be able to enjoy cake and a cuppa and start making new friends. I guarantee that you will be offered the best cake ever, you may learn a new skill too.

Our meetings start at 7.30pm and any visitors can attend for two visits, at a charge or £4 per meeting.

We have a broad range of ways to contact us: use mangotsfieldwi@ gmail.com to email the team directly.

Our website, www. mangotsfieldwi.org.uk, gives details about meetings and upcoming events for members or you can 'like' the Mangotsfield WI Facebook page.

Kate Tarr

BEECHMERE BELLES: EMERSONS & LYDE WI HOW lovely it was to see old and new faces for our first meeting of 2020, by new faces I mean new members not regulars postsurgery.

We all caught up over tea, coffee and cake, about the Christmas and New Year that we had, and talked about the events that we have planned for this year.

Last February we had a gentleman come to talk to us about self defence, the things that we can do to be aware of our surroundings and how to

be prepared when we’re out and about. This February he will be showing us physical ways to protect ourselves, I could have done with some of that knowledge when facing the Christmas sales.

March sees us having an evening with Hives and Herbals, although I like to think of her as the Bee Lady. She will be telling us about the importance of bees and how we can encourage them back into our gardens, we also get the chance to make a beeswax candle.

The following months are filled with talks from Therapy Dogs and the fantastic job they do, the Blood Bikers, who quite frankly are angels on motorbikes, Downend in Bloom will be popping in to tell us all about the amazing work they do to make Downend village look so beautiful all year round and, the one I am looking forward to, we are having a salsa evening.

As well as our meetings every fourth Thursday of the month, we have a cinema club once a month to see the latest releases, our Sunday Lunch Club, food, wine and good conversation and other activities throughout the year.

We have a craft day booked in April to Denman, the home of the WI, where we will take part in a craft session, wander around the beautiful house and, as you would expect from the WI, sample plenty of food and drinks. Those of us going will car share so that’s better for the environment and enables non-drivers to be able to participate. This really will be a day to immerse ourselves into the WI experience.

Throughout the year Beechmere Belles will be working with Feed The Homeless Bristol, the charity that we are supporting, helping to provide dried and tinned ingredients for the wonderful volunteers that cook and prepare the food. We have a few members that now cook on Sundays for this amazing charity after the talk we had last year. I am very proud of the Beechmere Belles and am always thrilled with the generosity that our members have for this great cause, from donating, to cooking to knitting.

If you fancy seeing what the WI is all about why not pop in and give us a go, we meet at Emersons Green Village Hall on the fourth Thursday of the month at 7.30pm, we meet in the Cullimore Room on the first floor, there is a lift available, you will spot the committee members, we will be the ones wearing sunflowers, please say hello and we will show you the ropes. If you park in the car park just pop your reg in at reception.

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Beechmere Belles – Emersons Green & Lyde Green WI

DOWNEND WI HELLO and happy new year.

We start the year, with our member Sam running a session that should save us money and be good for the environment, by helping us learn how to make the most of the clothes in our wardrobes. This should be an interesting session and make us want to rush home to see what items we do have lurking and not worn for a while.

February will be shaking off the cold and having a boxercise session that will be suitable for everyone.

January is registration for the year and the cost is £43: you get 11 meetings to meet new people and learn something new.

We meet on the last Tuesday of the month at Christ Church Hall on North Street at 7.30pm.

Come along and join us, as either a member or a guest.

Our next meeting is on Tuesday January 28.

Julie Walker President

SHORTWOOD VILLAGE WI HELLO and a Happy New Year to you all.

The year 2019 was extremely busy for us as we were hosts for the surrounding WI groups so we hosted two evenings of entertainment. The first evening in July was called “End of the Pier” where we acted out a Punch and Judy show and also showed our Murder Mystery film, both of which were produced and directed by Jo and acted by our good selves.

This included a picnic supper and Marshfield ice cream. The second event was a Christmas Evening in December, when had lots of singing and laughter with a Christmas theme, including homemade mince pies, cranberry flapjacks and mulled wine. (Non alcoholic I’m afraid as we were in Shortwood chapel). Both received good reviews and votes of thanks from the visiting WI members. At the rest of our meetings for 2019, we had speakers on various really interesting subjects and a few evenings doing crafts, chatting and quizzes, all with plenty of tea and cakes. Ending of with a Christmas party at the local pub.

Just before Christmas a group of us went carol singing in Shortwood Village and we raised

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an amazing amount of £239, which is going to the Stroke Unit in memory of Catherine. Afterwards, Catherines husband Charles kindly carried on the tradition and laid on a lovely buffet and mulled wine, at his house, in front of a warming and welcoming fire.

So for our first meeting for 2020, we had a visit from Amy Garrahy, who showed us how to Move, Stretch and Relax to music.

We all moved at our own pace with a singalong to “I’m All Shook Up”

by Elvis, “Que Sera Sera” and “On A Bicycle Made For Two” amongst other songs.

After a cuppa and cake, supplied by Jan as it was her BIG birthday, the business side of our meeting took place. Amongst other things this covered the resolutions vote, membership renewal for 2020 and a chat about where we might like to go for trips this year, including a possible day trip to Denman College.

By the time this goes to print we will have played our first a skittles match for this season against Wick and Doynton and it would be great if we can get past the first round this year. Watch this space!!

Our next meeting is a talk about “Hives and Herbals” with Alyson Hurst, The Bee Lady which will include candle making. There is always a warm welcome for new members and the first taster session is free. We meet on the second Thursday of the month, so 13th February next, at 7.30 pm in Shortwood Chapel, Main Road Shortwood, BS16. Hope to see you then!! For any further info. you can contact me on millhousejoinery@ aol.com with the subject Shortwood Village WI please.

Lynne Miller

Would you like to see your group's reports in Emersons Green Voice?

Send them to us at news@emersonsgreenvoice. co.uk

Got News? Call Jayne On 0788 0731148

emersonsgreenvoice

February, 2020

17

n NEWS

Bridal hairdresser Stacey wins national title

A HAIRDRESSER from Lyde Green has been honoured at the fourth annual English Wedding Awards.

Stacey Jade Hayward was named as Hair & Make Up Specialist of the Year South West at the ceremony in Birmingham. It was the tenth award for her wedding hair work.

Stacey Jade has lived in the Emersons Green area for 15 years and set up her business ten years ago.

She said: “I opened my own salon (Griffin Hair Design) in Warmley 18 months ago supporting other self-employed hair stylists, providing them with a space to grow their own businesses.

“I was nominated for The English Wedding Awards, which was then voted by previous brides.

“I was shaking like a leaf and was in absolute shock as I was up against so many amazing hair stylists and I just felt so honoured to have won and really grateful to all my lovely brides who voted for me and made that possible.”

A spokesman for the awards, which

celebrate everyone who works towards creating memorable and unique weddings, from wedding planners, coordinators, specialists and caterers to photographers, videographers, florists and stationery suppliers, said: “The winners of the English Wedding Awards 2019 represent the industry’s gold standard.

“The awards showcased some of the best wedding specialists, whose excellence and commitment, brought them at the forefront of the industry.

“The competition was really tough this year, but these champions are tried and tested specialists that know how to create a stress-free wedding experience, keeping the romance in the air.

“We would like to congratulate all finalists and winners for their amazing achievements.”

The awards helped raise money for the official charity partner, Buddy Bag Foundation. It provides children entering emergency accommodation with Buddy Bags to restore a sense of safety and security in their lives.

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emersonsgreenvoice

18

February, 2020

n PETER'S VISION

A sight to behold

I

Gaining control over primitive (retained) reflexes (the reflexes we are born with, such as the startle reflex) is needed. However, as with many aspects of our early development, things don’t always go as smoothly as they should and it is quite possible that some of these primitive reflexes are retained which can actually hinder more advanced development in some learning areas. I’ve found that in my patients who have dyslexia, or dyslexic type symptoms, there is a higher amount of retained early reflexes.

The most common reports from parents tend to be that a child or young person is just not achieving their potential. Patients are often bright, but have difficulty expressing this in their academic performance. They have usually developed coping strategies, but

F you’re a breakfast radio fan, then you may have heard Chris Evans talking about the revelation for his son that is treatment for his retained reflexes.

To see his son’s newfound ability to learn to read and write as well as reduced anxiety must surely be a sight to behold!

Vision is a process that is learnt; we are normally born with two eyes that can see but have not yet fully developed nor have their connections to the brain and the processing that needs to take place. Babies have to learn how to move their limbs in a voluntary and planned way and gain enough control so that they can then start to coordinate movements and vision together. They can then learn to crawl towards something they see and use fine movements to pick up something small; do you see?

GLASSES

these then ultimately limit their performance ability. A sight test usually shows little as our patients have often developed ways to pass this vision assessment.

As part of our vision therapy (behavioural optometry) clinics, we offer a full diagnostic vision assessment, which includes time to discuss your symptoms and concerns. We’ll then produce a written report of our findings.

Following this diagnostic assessment we can tailor a vision therapy exercise program to help you or your child develop a well functioning and balanced visual system - the aim of which is to enable our patients to achieve their full learning potential. The process of visual system recovery and development usually takes from four to twelve months with often extraordinary results.

If you’d like to know more, our website has information under our vision therapy heading, or if you have any questions you can drop us an email via our website.

You can book an appointment for a routine eye exam or more specialist vision assessment, for yourself or those you love, by calling 0117 962 2474 or 0117 965 4434, via our website, or just pop in to our practices in Henleaze or Fishponds and say Hi! We look forward to seeing you soon!

Peter

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

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February, 2020

19

n NEWS

Valentine theme as accordion festival returns A DOWNEND musician who revived a festival for the region's accordion players is bringing it back again this month.

Last year Andy Coles organised the first National Accordion Organisation South/South West Accordion championships since 1981. The event was a success, with around 40 performers and a further 80 spectators, and a concert following the competitive classes.

This year the event will once again be staged at Coalpit Heath Village Hall, also known as the Miners Social Club, on February 15. And because it is taking place on the weekend of Valentine's Day, there is a special section with romantic theme.

As well as giving competitors the chance to win a place at the National Accordion Organisation's UK national finals, there will once again be a concert from 3.30pm, which is free and open to all to attend.

Andy Coles

Andy said: "Last year was a resounding success and we enjoyed an unexpected concert by a UK National Champion of the 70s, Rajinder Suthar, who is originally from Downend but now living near London. The introduction was thanks to his sister, who still lives here and contacted her brother after reading the Downend Voice.

"We had a great range of

competitors, from the young learners to those returning to the instrument in later life.

"Music ranged from classical, through tango, musette, polka and modern. Alexander Bodell, a World class prize winner, also provided a spell-binding concert.

"This year, Alexander will be adjudicating, and his younger sister Annalise will be providing the concert. She

has already performed on the world stage and won many UK Championships.

"To celebrate Valentine’s weekend, we also have a special Valentine section that is open to soloists up to four players of any instrument. The only requirement is that the choice of music is associated with romance or love – so anything from Albinoni’s Adagio to Get Me The Church On Time is absolutely fine."

Winners in the championships will be chosen on overall appeal and musicality.

Local musicians are welcome and the entry charge is £10 for a soloist or £15 for a group of two or more.

Anyone who would like to take part should contact Andy

by February 8 by email at AccordionSW@virginmedia.com More details on the festival can be found at www. accordions.com/nao/

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February, 2020

n WHAT’S ON IN OUR AREA Wednesday February 5 n Frenchay & Hambrook Horticultural Society American Supper, Friends Meeting House, Frenchay Common, 7pm. Informal evening to meet and swap ideas.

All welcome. No need to cook but please bring something to nibble on. Soft drinks will be provided.

Quiz and raffle.

Thursday February 6 n Dementia: Who Cares? Free event hosted by Alzheimer’s research charity BRACE. Includes information about planning a loved one’s care and the costs involved. Also guidance on some of the key challenges and advice to avoid pitfalls. 6-7.30pm, Badminton Road Methodist Church,

Yoga with Yolanda Smile - Heal - Empower

Come and join our Yoga tribe, to relax your mind & body, to empower & nurture your soul.

All levels welcome.

Contact Yolanda 07982418847 or email at yogawithyolanda.me@gmail.com Mondays 7.30pm Thursday 9.30am & 10.45am Thursday 7.00pm AT Pomphrey Hill Pavilion. BS16 9NF. Mangosfield/Emersons Green.

Tuesdays 9.15am & 10.30am AT Quakers Church Hall. BS16 6NH. Downend Wednesdays 7.00pm AT Steiner Academy. St. Matthias. BS16 2JP. Fishponds

Badminton Road, BS16 6NU. To book email reply@alzheimersbrace.org or call 0117 414 4831.

Friday February 7 n Free quiz night! This will be held at Christ Church Downend at 7pm, quiz starting at 7.30pm. Teams of up to 7 or just turn up and join a team on the night, all ages welcome. BYO refreshments and snacks. Free event but donations welcome.

Monday February 10 n Senior Film Club 2pm @ Christ Church Parish Hall on North Street.

This month’s film is “Quartet” starring Maggie Smith – politics and relationships in a musicians’ care home (2012). Join us for film and cake! Carers welcome, easy access, refreshments £3.

Wednesday February 26 n Ash Wednesday service, 7.30pm at Christ Church Downend.

Thursday February 27 n Maundy Thursday communion service, 9.30am Holy Communion at Christ Church Downend.

Monday March 2 n Royal Osteoporosis Society Bristol Support Group, 1.45pm in Westbury Methodist Church Hall.

Talk by occupational therapist Maria Fitzgerald. All welcome.

For more information call 07710 743613.

Wednesday March 4 n Downend Flower Arranging Club demonstration, Lincombe Barn,

Overndale Road, 7.30pm. Sallying Forth Once More, with Sally Taylor.

Visitors very welcome - £8 on the door.

Saturday March 7 Splash of Soul charity night, KES Club, Kingswood (formerly Kingswood RBL club). DJs will be spinning northern soul, Motown and 60s R ‘n B tunes. £5 on the door. 7pm-12am.

Saturday March 10 n St James Mangotsfield are holding a Breakfast Morning and Table Top Sale on Saturday 21st March 10 am to 1 pm. In St James Church Hall, Richmond Rd. Last orders for Breakfast taken at 12:30pm. Lots of bargains to be had, books, craft, cakes, bric a brac and lots more. To book a table and for more details please e-mail elgalannash@gmail.com.

REGULAR EVENTS Please check these events are still running

Mondays n Am/pm Star Jumpers-Pre-school gym classes, village hall, contact Steve Denny 0117 9570009 n 10.30—11.30, Coffee Drop-In session—village hall, Free tea or coffee, contact Kevin Donaghy 0117 9575418 n 10.30am -12.30pm, Knit & Natter—Knitting Group, Village Hall. Tel 01454 862182

n 10.00—11.45, and 13.45-14.45, Diddi Dance—Preschool dance class, Village Hall contact Emily Norman 07850 983821 n 4.15pm – 6.30pm Ballet, tap and modern dance contact Kathy Plaster, 0117 9655660 n 19.00—21.00 The Daisy Foundation—Antenatal class Village Hall, Carrie Cherrington 07752 467535 n 20.00—21.00 Pilates Village Hall, contact Miriam Roberts 07889 243998 n 19.00 – 20.00 Flow Yoga, Village Hall, Hayley McAlinden 07748 452956 n Zumba Fitness with Sam & Karen, 7-8pm, Downend School n Phoenix Wind Band (20+ concert level players). Emersons Green Library, 7.30-9.30 p.m.

Varied, challenging, will appeal to Grade 6 players or above, e-mail phoenixwindband@hotmail.com. n Royal Naval Association, South Glos branch. Downend Cricket Cub, 7.30pm for 8pm 2nd Monday of every month. Call Bob Walker 0117 9567617. n Social badminton. Kingswood Leisure Centre, 2-4pm, intermediate level. n Drop in art group, Page Hall, Page Road, Staple Hill (please use side entrance), every Monday, 10am-12.30pm. No tuition. A friendly welcome guaranteed. Call Judith on 0117 957 0327. n Indoor short mat bowls at Pucklechurch Community Centre.

Established and beginners welcome. Bowls provided. Sessions Sunday afternoon, Monday and Wednesday evenings. Contact Roger Payne 0117 937 3653. n 4-8pm Ages 3 -15yrs Hip Hop

News from Downend, Staple Hill and Emersons Green libraries ON Monday February 3rd across the UK it is the start of Children’s Mental Health Week. On that date libraries will be launching the new Reading Well for Children booklist. Building on the successful schemes for adult and young people’s mental health, a new booklist to support the mental health and well-being of children has been developed.

The title provide children and their families and carers with information, advice and support for coping with feelings and worries, daily life and getting through a tough time — and every book on the list is in stock in every South Gloucestershire library. Books have been chosen and endorsed by leading

To advertise, contact Gary on 07799 461169

health professionals and co-produced with children and families. The booklist is targeted at children in Key Stage 2 (aged 7-11) but includes a wide range of reading levels to support less confident readers, and to encourage children to read together with their siblings and carers.

Title on the Mental Health booklists for adults and for young adults — also all in stock throughout South Gloucestershire libraries — are listed at https://readingagency.org.uk/ or ask library staff for a copy of the booklist.

Lego Clubs – February Saturday 1st February: 10.30am – at Staple Hill Library and 11am at Emersons Green Library Saturday 8th February: 11am at Downend Library New for 2020 Emersons Green Library will launch their Teen Group on Saturday 8th February starting at 11.30am. An opportunity to talk about your

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favourite books with other keen teen readers!

Please contact emersonsgreen.library@ southglos.gov.uk or ask staff for more details.

FREE half term craft activity: “Where in the world?” - Fun crafts and activities from countries far and wide (suitable for primary school aged children) Monday 17th February: 10.30am – 11.30am Downend Library Tuesday 18th February: 10.30am – 11.30am Staple Hill Library Tuesday 18th February: 2pm – 4pm: Emersons Green Library For more details of all of the above and much more visit www.southglos.gov.uk/ libraries or Facebook facebook.com/sgloslibraries Twitter_logo_blue@southgloslibs

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February, 2020 classes, RedX Dance, Staple Hill, 07722 128159 n 18:30-19:30 Pilates Christ Church Hall, Downend. Kerry 07919 051019 n 19:35 – 20:35 Flow Yoga Christ Church Hall, Downend. Kerry 07919 051019. n Keynsham Machine Knitting Club 2nd Monday Of Each Month 2.00pm-4.00pm Sterling Way Community Centre Park Road Keynsham BS31 1DF A friendly, supportive, enthusiastic group of people.New members welcome Contact Pat Hames 01454322553 n Pucklechurch Handbell Ringers meet from 7-8pm, termtime only.

You don’t need to be able to read music. Call Marion on 01179373528. We welcome all ages but to join in our activities, we would prefer members to be over 16. n Zumba session”– with Sam & Karen. 7pm -8pm 07799628308 n Bootcamp HIIT style 6pm – 7pm – Paul Green 07890742566 n Book club for carers – 11.45am -12.45 3rd Monday of each month – Stacey Vallis 01179652200

Tuesdays n Morning Jo Jingles—music for babies & young children. Village Hall, Tracy Bees 077139 43666 n Am/pm Star Jumpers—Preschool gym classes, Village Hall, contact Steve Denny 0117 9570009 n 10.30--11.40, Sing & Sign-Baby signing class, Village Hall, contact Katherine Amor 07594 460448 n Afternoon/Evening, Ballet, Tap & Modern Dance—for children & Adults, Village Hall, contact Kathy Plaster 0117 9655660 n 19.15—21.00, Downend Art Club—for adults, Village Hall, contact Steve Wheeler 07928 799835 n 18.30-19.30, W.W. Village Hall, contact 0345 345 1500 n 19.30—20.30 Boogie Bounce— Fitness class for adults, Village Hall, contact Claire Boon 07805 360411 n 20.00—20.55, Emersons Green Community Choir—For adults, Village Hall, contact Rachael Hunt 07908 211174 n 1pm – 2pm – Seated Pilates for seniors Village Hall, Emily Doe 07737250042 n Meditation group, Soundwell Road Spiritual church, Staple Hill.

Every Tuesday 7.30pm to 9.30pm.

All welcome, details 01454 320179 or soundwellroadchurch@yahoo. co.uk n Willow Ladies Club Downend, meet the 2nd Tuesday of each month from 10am-11.30am at the Assembly Rooms, Salisbury Road, Downend. Guest speakers, outings, new members welcome for ladies of any age. n 4-8pm Ages 8 -25 yrs Hip Hop & Contemporary dance classes, RedX Dance, Staple Hill, 07722 128159 Tuesdays n Pucklechurch Folk Dance

club. English Folk Dancing Club that meets alternate Tuesdays, 7.45pm to 10-15pm. Pucklechurch Community Centre. All ages and abilities are welcome .Contact details, Von 0117 937 2818 n Downend Camera Club. 7.4510pm, Assembly Hall, Salisbury Road, BS16 5RA. All abilities and interests catered for but beginners particularly welcome. n Messy Space – term time group for parent/carers with babies, toddlers and pre-school children.

Badminton Rd Methodist Church BS16 6NU, 10.00–11.45 am.

Wednesdays n Flower Arranging – Downend Folk House, Lincombe Barn, Overndale Road, 7.30 p.m. every 1st and 3rd Wednesday, September – May. All levels welcome. Call Isabel 0117-9568504 n Am/pm Music with Mummy pre-school music group, Village Hall, contact Debra Denny 0117 9574443 n 10.00—11.30 Rainbow Tots— Parent & Toddler Group, Village Hall, contact Kevin Donaghy 0117 9575418 n 10.00—11.25 Book Club, Village Hall, contact Diane Roberts 0117 9566963, Monthly n 18.00—2100 Pilates, Village Hall, contact Rose Skinner 07901914969 n Am/pm, Baby Sensory—Early Learning for Babies, Village Hall, contact Gemma Irwin-Porter bristoleast@babysensory.co.uk n 19.00—20.00, Flow Yoga Village Hall, contact Hayley McAlinden 07748 452956 n 20.00—21.00 Zumba—Dance Fitness Village Hall, Amy Millard 07971 901686n Diamond fellowship at Fishponds Baptist Church hall, Downend Road, 10.30am. Open to everyone, first and third Wednesdays every month. Contact 0117 9653421. n 13.45— 14.30, Diddi Dance, pre-school dance class, village hall, Emily Norman, 07850 983821 n 13.30— 15.30, Bingo—Win Prizes, Village Hall Tel 01454 862182 Fortnightly n 6-6.50pm All Boys Ages 7 -15 yrs Hip Hop classes, RedX Dance, Staple Hill, 07722 128159 n 17.30—19.30 T.A.G.B. Tae Kwon Do, Village Hall, Lee David Newman Tel. 07795 467262 n 10:30 – 11:30 Pilates Christ Church Hall, Downend. Kerry 07919 051019 n 19:00-20:00 Pilates Pomphrey Hill, Mangotsfield. Kerry 07919 051019 n Frenchay Folk Dance Club meets alternate Wednesdays for English and American country dancing.7.45 - 10.45 at Frenchay Village Hall.

All dances are explained and walked through before dancing to live music. New dancers of all abilities always welcome. Call 0117 9868534.

To advertise, contact Gary on 07799 461169

21

n 10-1130am Oldland Common Friendship & Exercise Club at The Community Building (rear of Redfield Edge School), High Street, Oldland Common, BS30 9TL. Contact Spencer on 07825 155954 n ‘Mango Jams @ Lyde’ Parent / Carer Toddler Group run by St James Church, meets every Wednesday during term-time from 9.15-10.45am. at Lyde Green Community Centre, BS16 7AG www.stjameschurch.co.uk or Sally: 07733 25637 n Support your Self-Care with Monthly Maintenance Shiatsu Clinic in Iron Acton every Wednesday between 3-8 pm.

Naturally restore your energy levels and improve your overall health and lifestyle for just £35 per month.

Contact Anna on 07487 511516 or email anna@wholehearted-health. co.uk for more information and to book your 1-1 treatment session. n Wednesday Café, Badminton Rd Methodist Church 10 am – noon.

Weekly coffee, cake and chat for older folk. All year excluding 2 week break at Christmas and last 2 weeks in August. n Artintro Workshopsfor adults and children with professional artist Catherine Williams.Emersons Green Village Hall, 5.30-8.20pm adults, 6.30-7.15pm children. To book a place call Catherine on

We would love to publicise your event Send details of your events and activities in the following format:

WHAT IT IS WHERE IT IS WHEN IT IS in no more than 40 words: email us at: news@emersonsgreenvoice. co.uk or call us on 07770 700579 / 07880 731148

07966 328525.

Thursdays

n 09.30-10.30, W.W. Village Hall, Sarah Hills 07837 096297 n Fishponds and Downend Rotary Club. Langley Arms, Guest Avenue.

1st and 4th Thursday - Fellowship Meetings 19:00 for 19:15, 3rd Thursday - Speaker Meeting 19:00 for 19:30. Please email Contact@

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22

February, 2020

n WHAT’S ON FandDRotary.Club to make arrangements. n Am/pm, Baby Sensory—Early Learning for Babies, Village Hall, contact Gemma Irwin-Porter bristoleast@babysensory.co.uk n Am, Mini Professors, science for pre-school children, Emily Hellewell, 07848 930513 n 12noon —14.00 Senior Citizens Lunch Club Village Hall, 01454 862182, Monthly n 12.45—13.45 Ballet & Modern Dance for Children Village Hall, contact Kathy Plaster 0117 9655660 n 14.00—16.30 Whist Club—Card game group for all abilities. Village Hall, Contact Pat Weymouth 0117 3732017 n 16.00—17.30. 3D Street Dancing—for ages 8—13 yrs Village Hall, Louise Hopton 07754 039059 n 17.30—18.30, Emersons Green Rainbows Village Hall, Lindsey Naldrett 078755 47434 n 19.00-21,00, Spanish language sessions, village hall, Fabiola Doano, 07960 426326 n 19.30— 21.15, Beechmere Belles W.I. Evening Group, Village Hall, contact Katie Bateman 07800 981777. Monthly n 19.30—21.00 Real Fitness with Sarah—Fitness class Village Hall, Sarah Buscemi 07975 943589 n 20.00—21.15 Karate—for adults Village Hall, Allan Harris 01179 323249 n 4.15-7pm Competition Crew Ages 7- 18 yrs Hip Hop classes, RedX Dance, Staple Hill, 07722 128159 n Zumba Fitness with Sam & Karen, 6.45-7.45pm Christchurch Infant School n Hatha Flow Yoga, gentle and nurturing. Pomphrey Hill Sports Pavillon. 10.45 - 11.45 am. All levels, ideal for beginners. Contact Yolanda 07982418847 or email at hola@yogawithyolanda.me n 930-11am or 1115-1245pm Staple Hill Friendship & Exercise

Club meet weekly for gentle exercise at Staple Hill Methodist Church (Hall), High Street, Staple Hill, BS16 5HQ. Contact Spencer on 07825 155954 n Hatha Flow Yoga, gentle and nurturing. Pomphrey Hill Sports Pavillon. 10.45 - 11.45 am. All levels, ideal for beginners. Contact Yolanda 07982418847 or email at hola@yogawithyolanda.me n 6.45pm – 8pm Qi Gong, Village Hall, Donna Pinker 07968158918 n 6pm-7pm –Flame Fitness, Village Hall, Alex Lambert 07769329027 n Yoga 7pm -8pm with Siobhan 07535971874 n Emersons Green Quilters, Christ Church Centre, Quakers Road, 7.30pm-9.30pm on second Thursday of every month. Contact Ann Price 07505267931 Email: emersonsgreenquilters@gmail.com n Pucklechurch Players drama group meets at 8.15pm in the meeting room, Pucklechurch Community Centre. Anyone interested in being onstage or helping backstage is welcome to come along. For more information text 07748 160562 or visit the group’s Facebook page.

Fridays n 10.00—11.30, Rainbow tots, parent and toddler group, village hall, Kevin Donaghy 0117 9575418 n S13.15-14.45, Splatt Messy Play, baby and toddler group, Contact Lynsey Abbott on 07713 480102 n 4.10-8pm Ages 6-18 yrs Hip Hop & Contemporary dance classes, RedX Dance, Staple Hill, 07722 128159 n 13.30—16.00. Positive Steps— Adult Support Group Village Hall, Tim Dunton 01225 287431 n 14.00 –16.00 Emersons Green Ladies group Village Hall, Edith Anderson 0117 9573422 Monthly n 18.00—19.15 GKR Karate Village Hall, Mark Woods 07951 947280 n Zumba Fitness with Karen, 9.15-10.15am, Winterbourne

To advertise, contact Gary on 07799 461169

Community Centre n Zumba Gold with Karen, 10.30-11.15am, Winterbourne Community Centre n 7-9.30pm Kingswood Photographic Society, St Barnabas Church Hall, Church Avenue, Warmley, BS30 5JJ, welcomes and supports all levels of experience including beginners. n Kingswood Probus Club, Warmley Community Centre, Deanery Road, Warmley, second, fourth and fifth Thursdays www. kingswoodprobus.co.uk n Spiritual healing at Soundwell Road church Staple Hill every Friday 7pm -8pm. Free entry.

Details 01454 320179 n ‘Mango Jams’ Parent / Carer Toddler Group run by St James Church, meets every Friday during term-time from 1.15-2.45pm. at St James Church Hall, Richmond Rd, BS16 9EZ, 07733 256372 n 12noon – 1.15pm – Over 60’s Seated Exercise, Village Hall, Caroline Aqui 07946201923 n 10am-11am – Spirals exercise class Village Hall – Carol Ramsey 07768732111 n 11am – Midday – Sosa dance class Village Hall - Carol Ramsey 07768732111 n 9.15am – 11.30am – Diddi Dance Village Hall, Emily Norman 07850983821 n 9.45am – 12.15pm – Spanish lessons Village Hall – Fabiola Doano 07960426323

n Spirals with Carol at Emersons Green Village Hall.

Dynamic flow class to music blending Pilates & Ballet to improve flexibility, balance, core and more. Mix of standing/ matwork with adaptions/ progressions. All levels. NEW TIME: 9.30–10.25am, £7. 07768 732111.

Email: sales@emersonsgreenvoice.co.uk

Saturdays n From 12pm T.A.G.B. Tae Kwon Do, Village Hall, Lee David Newman 07795 467262 n 10-11 am Saturday Sports Club for 4-8 year olds at Mangotsfield Primary School, Church Farm Road, BS16 7EY. £5 per session.

Discounted if pay termly. Contact Spencer on 07825 155954 / info@ sportingchance-pt.co.uk n 10.30am -12.30pm –Meditation, Monthly sessions, Village Hall, Eve Robshaw – 01179742633

Sundays n 10.30—11.45, Emersons Green Baptist Church Service, Village Hall, Kevin Donaghy. 0117 9575418 n 7.15pm Pucklechurch village badminton club meet in Pucklechurch village hall w members alway welcome. n Servicesat St Thomas a Becket, Pucklechurch - 1st Sunday in month 8.30am, Holy Communion said; 10am, Cafe Church; 2nd/3rd/4th Sunday 10am, Family Communion n Soundwell Road Spiritual church Staple Hill, Sunday service 6.30pm to 7.45pm. Doors open 6pm, all welcome. 01454 320179 n The Village Church,10.30am -11.45am, at Mangotsfield Primary School, Emersons Green. n Shortwood Methodist Church worship, 2.45pm, all welcome n St James Church, Mangotsfield.

8am weekly Holy Communion.

10.30am Ist Sunday: All-Age Worship; 2nd: Morning Worship; 3rd & 4th: Communion; 5th: Healing / Worship n Badminton Road Church.

Charlotte Close. The Big White Building. Morning Worship 1030am. Each Sunday morning.

Come and join us.

Got News? Call Linda On 0777 0700579

February, 2020

emersonsgreenvoice

23

n MANGOTSFIELD RESIDENTS ASSOCIATION

Planning and planting for the year ahead WE are looking forward to great things in 2020.

Our Nativity and Christmas Lights have been put away until later this year. We’ve learned a few things, so we hope we will be able to make some improvements for 2020.

We must reiterate our thanks to all who supported us in getting the Nativity and Christmas Lights – it was certainly worth it.

We do have a favour to ask, though. We need a better, more permanent store for our Nativity figures, as the current storage is temporary and not ideal. If you want an idea of how much space we need, then imagine six people in a room, huddled together! If anyone has or knows of somewhere, then please let us know.

We are forming plans for this year, starting with finalising a local history talk about our mining heritage. This will take place on Thursday March 5 at Resound Church, Blackhorse Road. Watch this space and local social media for more information over the coming weeks. If this is successful then we want to run more talks over the coming year.

We’ll also be continuing our work on the Dame School, which has become a little

bit "stuck" over the past few months, for various reasons.

We are also planning to put planters around the village. We’d like to start building and installing them in February.

We welcome help from any DIY enthusiasts, so get in touch if you would like to help.

You may have noticed a couple of new 'No Parking' signs on Mangotsfield common. The intent is to stop parking on the common, as the grass was being churned up. Well, the signs seem to be working; thanks to Michael Bell, our local councillor, for arranging them and thanks to all for observing them. Long may it continue.

Our next meeting was due to take place on Friday January 24 at 7.30pm in the Scout Hall, and was continuing to plan for 2020.

If you are reading this after the meeting has taken place, our February one is due to be on the 28th.

If you are interested in getting involved, please get in touch via mangotsfieldourvillage@gmail.com or the ever-popular Mangotsfield Matters Facebook page.

Chris Amos

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24

n NEWS FROM OUR MP

emersonsgreenvoice

February, 2020

The start of a new decade

Chris Skidmore writes for

Emersons Green Voice

FIRST of all, I’d like to wish everyone a belated Happy New Year.

2020 doesn’t just mark the turning of the calendar – it also marks the start of a new decade.

A decade ago, I was preparing to stand for the first time in the General Election in May. I didn’t really expect to win, but I was determined to try my best.

Four months later, I was surprised when local people gave me the chance to serve our community.

Ten years on, I was equally delighted when you re-elected me as your MP, this time with the largest majority I’ve ever had, 11,220, and with over 56% of people voting for me.

I am truly honoured and I want to not only thank everyone who had placed their trust in me – I want to say that whoever you voted for, I am here to help you as

best I can.

I hold regular advice surgeries and my constituency office is open to visit each day. For those who do not have my contact details, I can be emailed at Chris. skidmore.mp@parliament.uk and telephone 0117 9081524.

I also want to thank the other candidates who took part in the General Election - Nicola BowdenJones, Dine Romero, Joe Evans and Angelika Cowell. I enjoyed taking part in BBC Radio Bristol hustings with them. Standing for election can be a tough commitment and I want to thank them for giving voters a choice in our democracy.

Now that we are in a new decade, I want to look to the opportunities ahead for our area.

In the past ten years, we’ve seen continued investment in jobs with more people in work than ever before - and in local business,

with the creation of the Bristol Bath Science Park for example.

I want to continue this and hope to see more growth in our living standards thanks to a strong economy.

But this also depends on having good transport links, which is why I want progress on the M4 link and also better bus services, as well as ensuring our public services are levelled up, so that we see the school funding increases needed. This month, we are introducing a bill ensuring that we see the £33 billion rise in NHS funding promised - and I want to see this reflected in increased investment also in our local area.

A lot will change in ten years for myself, I got married and had three children also - but I want to ensure that we continue to see positive change so that our local area can be the best it can be.

Party Packages from £449* We also cater for weddings, wakes, christenings and conferences.

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February, 2020

25

n CRAFT COLUMN Fabric envelope With Liz Freke of Hattie’s Hooray’s WITH Valentine’s Day upon us, why not create a gorgeous fabric envelope to store and send a note or card to your loved one? This can also be used for birthdays, weddings, christenings – in fact, any celebration that requires a card! A trusty iron will be your friend in this make, so make sure you have one handy.

You will need: 2 pieces of fabric measuring 15cms x 30cms Ruler/Pen/pencil Sewing machine Iron Sewing thread in your chosen colour Fabric scissors/Pins

1. Turn one fabric piece to the reverse side and mark each side at 11cms and 22cms. Draw a line from side to side at these points.

These are the fold lines and will form the front and back of your envelope and the remaining piece at the top will be your flap. Take the smallest section and mark the middle top and then make marks either side that are 3cms above the last fold line. Draw a line from each side mark to the centre top and cut these pieces away to create a pointy flap for your envelope.

Repeat with the other piece of fabric.

2. Take one piece of fabric on the reverse side and fold and iron along both fold lines. Now repeat with the other piece but iron and fold on the right side of the fabric – the reason for this will become clear later in the make!

4. Take both pieces of fabric wrong sides together and pin around the whole edge – you will see that the outer piece folds into the inner piece slightly because of the way you have ironed the folds.

5. Using your sewing machine, top stitch (this is a fancy term for sewing on the outer side edges of fabric to make them sturdy) along the bottom straight edge. Cut and neaten off the ends of the thread.

Fold the fabric up along the first fold line so that your envelope ‘pocket’ is created and pin in place – you may want to remove the original pins and replace with a new line of pins each side.

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6. Sew in place and neaten off any loose threads. Your envelope is now ready for another iron to make sure all edges are neat and the flap folds over nicely.

7. You’re nearly there! Finish your envelope with embellishments of your choice or simply leave it as it is. It’s now ready to be filled with a lovely card or note for loved and special ones. You could create enveloped with different themed fabrics to suit the occasion but above all have fun and enjoy creating! See you next month for a lovely Mother’s Day make.

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3. Now fold and iron approximately 0.5cm around the edge of each piece of fabric to create your hem.

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vet 26

February, 2020

n VETS’ ADVICE

Could your pet benefit from acupuncture?

How Does Acupuncture Work?

Acupuncture is the stimulation of specific points (‘acupoints’) on the body that have the ability to alter various conditions. Acupuncture affects all the major body systems, it increases circulation and causes a release of many transmitters and hormones in the nervous system (including endorphins).

Acupuncture relieves muscle spasms, stimulates nerves and Your Vet and stimulates the body’s natural Practice Owner: defence mechanisms.

Acupuncture has been used for Carla Puime Costoya thousands of years in both animals MRCVS and humans. It is now being used by vets as a complementary therapy when conventional medicines are not quite enough.

What Conditions Respond to e Pets atAcupuncture?

Home, Acupuncture most commonly Green, Bristol, BS16is7AE used as additional pain relief in musculoskeletal problems such com/bristol-emersons-green as arthritis. We see some amazing responses to acupuncture 5pm Sat, 10.30am - 4.30pminSun painful conditions, it can even

acupuncture sessions. Some will experience a moment of sensitivity as the needle penetrates the skin in sensitive areas. Most animals will relax once the needles are in place, some even fall asleep.

s Green

Is Acupuncture Safe?

Acupuncture is safe if performed by a competent acupuncturist. Side effects and complications are rare.

Some conditions may temporarily deteriorate before improving. reduce the need for pain relief medications.

However, acupuncture is more than just pain relief. It can also be used in the treatment of

many other conditions including skin, nerve and gastrointestinal problems.

Is Acupuncture Painful?

Most animals cope really well with

Does acupuncture sound like it could help your pet? Please call us for more information or to book an appointment - 0117 910 9352.

Vets4Pets Bristol Emersons Green Inside Pets at Home, Emersons Green Retail Park, Emersons Way, Emersons Green, Bristol BS16 7AE

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Vets4Pets Bristol Emersons Green Inside Pets at Home, Emersons Green Retail Park, Emersons Green, Bristol BS16 7AE call: 0117 910 9352 or visit: vets4pets.com/bristol-emersons-green Promoted by Pets at Home Vet Group Limited, Epsom Avenue, SK9 3RN. Terms and conditions including exclusions apply.

Please ask in practice for more details or visit www.vets4pets.com/completecare. Prices correct as at October 2019.

To advertise, 07799 461169 Bristol EG -contact CompleteGary Care - on October 2019.indd 1

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Got News? Call Jayne On 18/10/2019 0788 0731148 13:20

emersonsgreenvoice

February, 2020

27

n ON THE TREATMENT TABLE

Vitamin D - cheaper than a trip to the Mediterranean

I

N this new year I want to help you see with 2020 vision and send those winter blues away.

Non-stop in the clinic I see patients suffering from varying degrees of seasonal affective disorder.

When the days are dark, cold and wet during the bleak weeks after Christmas and New Year, we could probably all do with a bit of cheering up.

Sadly, we can’t all afford to make a swift exit for a welcome dose of winter sun in Spain, Portugal or the Caribbean. Luckily, there’s a cheaper, more realistic option to help make you feel better and start counting down the days until spring and summer arrives.

Many people who suffer more than others during the long winter days are lacking in a key ingredient that could make all the difference, thrusting them into a positive and cheerful frame of mind.

Vitamin D, which is found in only a small number of foods, helps regulate the amount of calcium and phosphate in the body. In turn, these nutrients are needed to keep

bones, teeth and muscles healthy.

It’s true that, from around late March or early April to the end of September, most people should be able to get all the vitamin D they need from natural sunlight.

However, in autumn and winter, it’s a completely different story.

The NHS says that, because it's sometimes difficult for people to get enough vitamin D from food alone, everyone – including pregnant and breastfeeding women – should consider taking a daily supplement containing 10 micrograms of this vital vitamin.

Some people won't get enough vitamin D from sunlight because there’s very little or no exposure to real sunshine.

The Department of Health recommends that you take a daily supplement containing 10 micrograms of vitamin D throughout the year if you: - Don’t go outdoors much – for example, if you're frail or housebound - Live in an institution like a care home - Usually wear clothes that cover

up most of your skin when you’re outdoors -H ave dark skin – for example, if you have an African, AfricanCaribbean or south Asian background, you might not get enough vitamin D from sunlight.

You should know that too much Vitamin D can also be bad for you – so not everyone NEEDS to take this type of supplement.

So, do you or don’t you? One way to check is to have a simple blood test, which is now offered

by Cleve Chiropractic at our brand new premises in Mangotsfield.

Many tests will give you a single level for Vitamin D. However, the venous test, where blood is taken from the vein in your arm, provides the most accurate reading.

Importantly, this test straightforward test will tell you which sort of Vitamin D you may be lacking in.

It’s easy to make a booking for a 15-minute consultation at Cleve Chiropractic. We can take the blood sample and send it off for analysis straight away. Results are normally available within two or three

with Tim Button, Doctor of Chiropractic at Cleve Chiropractic and Next Step in Mangotsfield

0117 957 5388

drtimbutton@ clevechiropractic.com www.clevechiropractic.com facebook.com/clevechiro twitter.com/clevechiro

working days working days via our online portal.

You’ll quickly get some peace of mind. The test result will either mean you can rest well, knowing your Vitamin D level is spot-on, or you’ll be able to grab the correct sort of supplement to top up and beat away those winter blues.

I look forward to welcoming you to the clinic in 2020 to come and see your immensely talented and experienced medical team in Mangotsfield.

Close shaves for Mangos - on and off pitch A SUPERB comeback from two goals down away to Sholing was the highlight of a month which saw Mangotsfield United pick up two wins, two defeats and lose a match to the wet weather.

The pre-Christmas game away to Portsmouth-based Moneyfields was called off and the constant rain then made the Cossham Street pitch heavy for the Paulton home game on Boxing Day, but the Mangos did the business, with a well-deserved 3-1 home win.

Goals from Robbie Cox (4) & Jordan Rogers (38) gave the hosts a 2-0 interval lead, and when Ben Brooks fired in No 3 on 69 minutes, that seemed like game over. Wrong!

Paulton got one back three minutes later through Elliot Dugan and Mangos keeper Marko Radovanovic fully earned his man of the match award with a penalty save on 82 minutes.

After the game, a packed clubhouse saw kit man John House (beard) and manager Ollie Price (head) face the barber’s razor for charity, as shown in these pictures from the official club website.

New Year’s Day saw the Mangos get off to the worst possible start with a 3-1 loss

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away to Barnstaple Town, ending the game with just nine men! Jordan Rogers netted after just 10 minutes to give us the lead but Barnstaple levelled with a penalty and Mangos keeper Marko Radovanovic was then red-carded for a foul outside the box. The 10 men, including substitute keeper Camden Duncan, were doing fine but on 50 minutes, midfielder Lee Hartshorn was sent off via two yellow cards, and the visitors had an almost impossible task after that. The numbers game finally told, with the hosts scoring twice.

Three days later, Mangotsfield slipped up at Cossham Street with a 3-2 home defeat

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against another Devon side, Willand Rovers.

Again, the Mangos took the lead through James Ollis on 9 minutes and still led at the break, but Willand upped their game in the second half, scoring three times before James Byrne pulled one back for the Mangos on 82 minutes.

January 11 saw one of those proverbial “games of two halves” as Mangotsfield overturned a 2-0 half-time deficit away at Southampton-based Sholing to return home with a superb 4-2 win, in one of their best results of the season. A strong first half by Sholing saw them 2-0 up at the break, but the Mangos came out for the second half with renewed verve and vigour. Jordan Rogers got one back on 49 minutes. James Ollis then netted twice (71 & 78) as Sholing began to fall apart and Dan Demkiv wrapped up a superb victory with a 4th goal in stoppage time, to complete a massive win that had looked so unlikely at 3.45pm.

February fixtures at Cossham Street: Saturday 1 February at 3pm – Evesham United Saturday 15 February at 3pm – Cirencester Town Dave Smale

Got News? Call Linda On 0777 0700579

emersonsgreenvoice

28

February, 2020

n SPORT

Alexa joins women's team heading to Europe A TEAM of five female fighters from Downend Boxing Club is heading to Sweden to test themselves against leading European opposition.

The annual Golden Girl Championship tournament is due to take place in Boras, near Gothenburg, from January 31 to February 2.

The tournament is the largest female-only event in Europe and Downend head coach Craig Turner says the competition the boxers will face "promises to be top-level".

Among the strong team from the Hillfields-based club is 14-year-old newcomer Alexa Smith, British Champion Eloise Edwards, 15, Development National Champion Morgan Baber, 16, multi-national title holder and previous gold medal winner Ellouise Challenger, 17, and 23-year-old England Boxing woman’s box cup champion Jodie Horton.

Ellouise and Morgan both

EW FOR NNTS E I 0 PAT /01/2

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picked up silver medals at the event last year and will be looking to go one better this time around.

Craig said: "I am delighted that we are able to send a strong team to the event.

"Downend have been very successful in female boxing,

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from our first National champion Adelaide Baker back in 2012.

"I’m sure the girls will perform and do us proud."

Downend Boxing Club will set a new benchmark in June, when the annual Bristol Box Cup it organises will be staged for the first time at Ashton Gate

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Young boxer Alexa Smith (centre, with coach Craig Turner and assistant coach Tracey Hayne) is heading to the Golden Girl Championship tournament in Sweden

stadium.

The event, for male and female competitors aged 11 to 13, is now in its seventh year and has gained pace over that time.

Previously staged at City Academy in Redfield, this year promises to big the biggest yet, with teams coming from all over England, Wales, Scotland, Ireland and, for the first time, Poland.

Tournament co-ordinator Joanne Turner said: "It’s just amazing to see what commenced as a small event for school kids, has developed into an international tournament.

"Hosting the tournament at Ashton Gate, will showcase our city and our young people's talent."

The club is looking for sponsors to help ensure its success. Anyone interested should contact Craig at downendboxing@gmail.com or call 07723 341013.

CLEVE CHIROPRACTIC 20A Cossham St, Mangotsfield, Bristol BS16 9EN

Email: sales@emersonsgreenvoice.co.uk

w w w. c l e v e c h i r o p r a c t i c . c o m

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February, 2020

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29

n NEWS

New-look pools open at leisure centre

CUSTOMERS at local leisure centre are back in the swim following a £35,000 revamp.

Both the large and small pools at Kingswood Active Lifestyle Centre in Church Road, Staple Hill, closed towards the end of last year for a month-long refurbishment project. Essential maintenance work to reline, re-grout and refresh the pools started in early December, with the facilities reopening on January 2.

The project is part of an ongoing

commitment from Circadian Trust, the notfor-profit organisation which runs the centre.

The organisation has overseen major redevelopment projects in Bradley Stoke and Longwell Green, with extensive work to refurbish the gym in Yate and establish a conference centre in Thornbury.

Martyn Hinam, centre manager, said: “As a not for profit organisation, we continue to reinvest money back into centres across South Gloucestershire so that we can offer

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31

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