Fishponds Voice April 2021

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April, 2021 — ISSUE 72

FREE EVERY MONTH IN THE GREATER FISHPONDS AREA

Here to stay Our work is done, say park Friends The Friends of Fishponds Park group is disbanding after achieving its aim of improved play equipment. It is offering its remaining funds to community groups.

PAGE 7

Fishponds goes to the polls

Teacher Vanetta Spence, brought in to help May Park Primary School in Eastville transfer to an academy trust, is staying on to be the school's permanent principal. Full story: Page 4

Community hall plan for pub PLANS have been submitted to turn a pub that has been shut for four years into a function hall and housing.

The Merchants Arms in Stapleton closed suddenly in December 2016 and since then owner Red Rock Developments has made applications both to extend it and to turn the entire building into housing.

The company says the building is "no longer economically viable" as a pub, and says it hopes the new plans will bring the building "back to life" for the local community.

But residents who fought to have it protected from redevelopment say the latest plans would result in the "permanent loss" of the pub.

Turn to Page 3

Elections for the city council, Bristol Mayor, West of England Mayor and Police and Crime Commissioner take place next month.

PAGES 10-16

Community garden proposal A resident is hoping to establish a Fishponds Community Garden off Snowdon Road.

PAGE 22

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fishpondsvoice Publisher & Sales Caroline Galvin 07453 954261

Find us on Facebook www.facebook.com/fishpondsvoice

Editor Linda Tanner 0777 0700579

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Journalist Ken MCormick 07715 770377

ADVERTISING sales@fishpondsvoice.co.uk Tel 07453 954261 EDITORIAL news@fishpondsvoice.co.uk Letters to the publication can be sent to the above e-mail address or by post to Letters, Fishponds Voice, 15 Mayfield Park, Fishponds, Bristol BS16 3nn. The editor reserves the right to edit your letter.

DEADLINES May edition deadline is April 28.

L O C A L I N F O R M AT I O N Bristol City Council http://www.bristol.gov.uk 0117 922 2000 Police www.avonandsomersetpolice.uk general enquiries: 101 Emergency: 999 Fire www.avonfire.gov.uk General enquiries: 0117 926 2061 Emergency: 999 NHS 111 Safer Stronger team sscg@southglos.gov.uk 01454 868009

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 Fishponds 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 Caroline Galvin on 07453954261 or news@fishpondsvoice. co.uk.

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

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

April, 2021

n NEWS

' Positive response' to hit-and-run appeal POLICE say they have had a "positive response" to appeals to find the hit-and-run driver who left a cyclist injured in a road in Speedwell.

No one has yet been arrested in connection with the incident, which left NHS worker Samantha Needle with multiple injuries.

Sam spoke to the Voice last month about how the incident, at the junction of Kingsmead Road, Meadow Vale and Kingsmead Walk, had left her with multiple fractures to her ribs, chest, spine and pelvis, and a knee injury and damage to tendons in her shoulder.

The driver of the car – a light Peugeot 206 or 207 cc convertible, with a dark door protector strip on the side – sped over give way lines and knocked Sam off her bike, before turning around in Kingsmead Walk, which is a cul-de-sac, and mounting the kerb to drive around Samantha, who was lying "in agony" next to her damaged bike.

A reconstruction of the incident was featured on the BBC's Crimewatch Live programme in March, in which police echoed Sam's call for the driver – or anyone who knows them – to "do the right thing" and take responsibility.

Afterwards an Avon and Somerset police spokesperson said: "No arrests have been made yet in this case but our recent appeals have generated a positive response and officers continue to investigate."

Anyone with information should call 101 and quote the incident reference number 5220 266 271.

The police appeal including video of the collision can be viewed by searching for 'Speedwell collision on the police website, avonandsomerset.police.uk.

Drugs seized on M32 POLICE seized cocaine worth £500,000 when they stopped a car on the M32 in Eastville.

Four men were arrested in what police described as an "intelligence-led stop and search" between the Eastville and St Paul's junctions of the motorway on March 18.

Three men from Bristol, aged 39, 36 and 31, and a 49-year-old man from Newport have all been charged with conspiring to supply class A drugs.

They were due to appear at Bristol Crown Court on April 21 to answer the charges.

Avon and Somerset police Detective Chief Inspector Simon Dewfall said: “This was a significant seizure of class A drugs, which had an estimated street value of half a million pounds.

“We believe they were destined for the local drugs market.

“These successful arrests have further helped to disrupt harmful supply across the South West.”

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April, 2021

3

n NEWS

Hall and housing plan for Merchants Arms

From Page 1 The developer now wants to keep the current building, turning the ground floor of the pub into a "function hall", available for private hire for events, meetings, groups and classes.

The plans also propose the "regularisation" of a sixbedroom house in multiple occupation (HMO) on the first floor, which was the subject of a planning enforcement case in 2018 but later given a licence, and the extension of a separate residential flat at the Averay Road end of the building.

Agent Stuart Rackham, of Rackham Planning, said: "The community hall forms an integral part of the plans for the change of use of the Merchants Arms.

"It will be a privately-run venture, being offered out to community groups and individuals for private hire.

"It is envisaged to accommodate a range of uses from local sports groups, toddler groups, gatherings, and family-friendly social events and community activities.

"With the former Merchants Arms lying unused for over four years, it is very much hoped that it can be bought back to life and become a valued facility for the local community."

The application says a "full open marketing campaign" to sell the pub was started more than a year ago but there had been "no interest or offers received for public house use", adding: "The public house is no longer economically viable."

The agent says the pub's bedrooms and flat have been continually occupied since it shut.

Residents have objected to the plans, saying the area already has halls for hire but really needs a pub or cafe.

The Merchants Arms as it looks now The pub was officially listed as an Asset of Community Value in 2018, to give it some protection from development, following a campaign by the Colston Estate Community Association.

It also has 'locally listed building' status and is in a conservation area.

Campaigner Chris Faulkner Gibson said: "The latest application would, if approved, see the permanent loss of the Merchants Arms."

He said that the accommodation attached to the pub was only ever used for staff when it was open, and the HMO part of the application was asking for permission "to

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Chris said: "The pub remained popular and well-used right up to the point at which it closed.

"There is no alternative pub provision within acceptable walking distance and those of us who live locally keenly feel the loss.

"We will be opposing the planning application and urge anyone who feels the same to submit an objection, which can be done online or by post."

The plans can be viewed by searching for application 21/00968/F on the city council's website.

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April, 2021

n NEWS

May Park's set for exciting new chapter

A SECONDARY school teacher who came to help improve an Eastville primary school liked it so much she has become its permanent head.

Vanetta Spence taught at Fairfield High School for 16 years, becoming deputy head.

She was seconded to May Park Primary School in Coombe Road two years ago, as part of an improvement team to help the school make the transition to the Excalibur Academies Trust.

Now Ms Spence has been appointed May Park's principal, and says she had no hesitation about moving from secondary to primary education.

She said: "The main thing was that I was working in and serving the same community, in the same geographic area.

"When the school became part of the trust I was working in school improvement and came here for two years to help the school transition but I just stayed, and I love it."

Ms Spence said it was a "leap of faith" for a primary school to appoint a secondary school teacher but said she felt she had the school community behind her.

She said: "The parents are fantastic. They have been really welcoming and have given me their backing."

Coming from a secondary school environment means Ms Spence brings in ideas that might not have been considered before.

May Park had been put into special measures after being rated inadequate by regulator Ofsted in 2018, before it was transferred to the Excalibur trust.

Ms Spence has used some of the space created from reducing the capacity of the school from more than 720 to 500 now to turn one classroom into a computer room, so children can learn how to use a desktop PC and coding.

She has also brought in a native Frenchspeaking teacher from Fairfield for French lessons, and plans to introduce some Latin lessons next year, to help children

Vanetta Spence with May Park pupils in the school's newly-revamped Booktopia library understand the basics of learning foreign languages and English.

There have also been theatre and dancing projects as part of the school's new Lighting Up Learning curriculum.

Ms Spence said: "It was time for May Park to do something new and different.

"I'm looking for opportunities to do things outside what a primary school would normally do, sharing ideas across the key stages."

The school's PTA has helped improve and expand facilities, raising money towards the revamped Booktopia library.

It has also provided funding for a wooden outdoor classroom pictured on Page 1, which helps the school take advantage of its own woodland area where a forest school programme has been relaunched, to complement the pupil-led Eco Committee's work to promote sustainability and ensure they become globally aware, responsible citizens.

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Other changes brought in from the secondary environment, such as giving each pupil their own email address, helped the school community to respond to the upheavals of repeated lockdowns during the Covid-19 pandemic over the past year.

The school has delivered live video lessons throughout, while also teaching 140 key worker children in school and dealing with the logistics of keeping support services such as free school meals running.

Ms Spence says her team's main aim is to make sure continued improvements are built around the individuality of the school and its diverse community, with families from a range of backgrounds and cultures, speaking more than 40 languages.

She said: "Our vision is to have a school that's unique to the East Central Bristol area it serves, providing a high level of education but also celebrating and reflecting the uniqueness of May Park."

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fishpondsvoice

April, 2021

5

n NEWS

Don't cancel your Covid jab HEALTH leaders are reassuring people about the safety of the Oxford-AstraZeneca vaccine after some appointments in the area were cancelled over misplaced fears of blood clots.

About a dozen European countries paused their rollout of the vaccine after fears were raised based on a small number of reports of clots.

But Europe’s medicines regulator said the vaccine was “safe and effective” and a large US trial came to the same conclusion.

Claire Thompson, the officer responsible for the vaccination programme from the NHS Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire Clinical commissioning group, said: “We have had some people ringing and cancelling. It’s not huge numbers, but there is, understandably, some concern from people.”

Ms Thompson said cancellations were mostly from

people booked to get their first dose.

Doctors, nurses and countless other staff, supported by volunteers and others, are delivering the life-saving jab at a range of sites across our area from GP surgeries, community centres and mosques to sports stadiums and schools.

As of March 26 there had been 435,577 doses of vaccination administered in the region.

Dr Neil Kerfoot, GP at Kingswood Health Centre, said: “Now is a great time to book your Covid-19 jab – it’s quick and efficient, safe and effective, and painless.If you are over 50 or have an underlying health condition that means you are eligible for vaccination, please contact your GP surgery to book your appointment.”

The number of new Covid-19 infections confirmed in the Fishponds area is lower than a month ago.

In the most recent Office for National Statistics figures there were seven confirmed cases in Fishponds North – the area including the top of Fishponds Road, Manor Road and Oldbury Court – during the week to March 23. This was down from 15 cases a month earlier.

In Fishponds South, including Hillfields, numbers were "0 to 2" - the ONS does not release exact figures when case numbers fall below 3 – down from six.

In the ONS Speedwell area, which includes Lodge Causeway and Mayfield Park, confirmed cases fell 10 to 8 per week over the same period, with numbers in Eastville falling from 5 to 3, and Stapleton remaining at under 3.

Over the year to March 12, 214 Bristol residents had died with Covid-19: 68 in care homes, 133 in hospital, 11 at home and 2 elsewhere. Of those, 25 deaths were in the most recent four weeks.

Council criticised A WATCHDOG has criticised Bristol City Council for failing to keep records, after it lost all trace of a resident’s complaint – and its own response.

The Local Government Ombudsman has branded it “unacceptable and a significant service failure” and ordered the authority to apologise, pay the unnamed woman £250 and set out how it will improve records retention and grievance handling.

A report said even after the watchdog got in touch, the council “failed to consider and reply to the complaint” and that its handling of the ombudsman's own enquiries had also been "poor and subject to unnecessary delay".

The council said it welcomed the ombudsman’s report, agreed to implement its recommendations and that practices follow guidance.

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April, 2021

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ANOTHER month of lockdown goes by, and with the vaccine rollout gathering pace I can sense a feeling of hope in the air. Of course I think the usual signs of spring help us too! Whether it’s the new shoots from the bulbs, the warmth in the air or the lighter days I think taking time to appreciate the little things can make such a difference to us all.

One thing that we’ve been aware of for many years, and is perhaps gaining traction as more treatment options are becoming available, is myopia. Now for those of you who haven’t swallowed an Optometry encyclopedia, myopia is short sight in everyday language. Those of us who are short sighted need glasses or contacts to see in the distance, which for example can be watching TV or driving. I really should add a note for parents here; just because your child can see an aeroplane in the sky or an animal in a field doesn’t mean that they don’t have a degree of myopia!

Now I’ve not changed prescription since my mid teens, which as a 70s child does mean I have a superb collection of 1980s glasses - think big brown plastic (thanks Dad for that!) that I can still wear.

Great for the retro look, or even the odd fancy dress party, but nothing I can wear to work under any circumstances!

Seriously though, increasing myopia does matter. The risk of eye health problems increases if your myopia developes past a certain point. The exact dioptric value of the myopia is not as much of a concern as the growth and thinning of the key part of the eye, the retina. In the past there was not thought to be much that can be done about myopia development. The good news is that we now have more options to offer you than ever before.

I’ve talked before about Ortho-K, the overnight vision correction, as well as daily disposable contact lenses that can help slow down myopia. The exciting news, drum roll please… is that we now have a glasses lens option too. This really is quite exciting news for our younger patients who decided against contact lens wear, and previously had no clear option to help slow their myopia progression.

If you’d like to know more about this for yourself or those you love just visit our website and click the Myopia tab. We’ve a dedicated email address on the website you’re welcome to use to contact us if you have any concerns or questions about myopia.

Don’t forget, whether you’re myopic or not, we’re still here when you need us six days per week. For eye care, advice, glasses and contact lenses just get in touch and we’ll be happy to see how we can help you.

Times are tough for many of us, and as a thank you for choosing us for your eye care we’re continuing to offer to help you in return with a glasses voucher with your extended eye exam. Just ask about our ‘look in to help out’ offer.

To help us keep you all safe, we’re still asking you all to telephone first to book a time to come in. Please call our Henleaze practice on 0117 962 2474 or our Fishponds practice on 0117 965 4434.

We look forward to seeing you soon!

Peter

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

Email: sales@fishpondsvoice.co.uk

Got News? Call Linda On 0777 0700579

fishpondsvoice

April, 2021

7

n NEWS

Park friends group to disband after job well done A GROUP set up to ensure Fishponds Park had play facilities to be proud of is winding down after achieving its goal.

Other local groups or charities could now benefit, as the volunteer organisation still has money left in the bank, which it is offering to good causes supporting children in the area.

The Friends of Fishponds Park was set up in 2015 to raise money to pay for an upgrade to the children's play area of the park, on the corner of Fishponds Road and Manor Road.

The previous equipment was outdated, having been installed in 1963. Some of it had not been new then, and dated back to 1936.

Friends of Fishponds Park chairman Brian Smith said the group set a target of £100,000, the estimated cost of new equipment when it was founded.

By September 2018

The new equipment at Fishponds Park members had secured £106,000, from a combination of community fundraising events, crowdfunding, donations from supermarkets and successful applications to secure contributions made by developers to the city council, as part of legal deals linked to planning permission.

Once the money was secured,

it was then down to the council to instal the equipment.

After some frustration and delays the work was eventually finished in December last year but, due to Covid-19 restrictions in place ever since, the Friends have been unable to hold an official opening event.

Brian said: "Now that the new play area is complete we

have decided that the work of the Friends group is done.

"We're going to disband and distribute the money to the community.

"I'm chuffed we got there in the end.

"We've been getting amazing feedback about the play area, and I'm told it's constantly in use."

The friends group has around £2,000 of funds available and is inviting applications from community groups and charities operating in the local area to receive all or part of the money.

To be considered the group or charity must be a not-for-profit local group, with a dedicated bank account, which will use the money for children’s play or well-being.

Applications should include the group's name and contact details, and say what the money would be used for.

Applications should be sent to fishpondsparkgroup@gmail. com by April 30.

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April, 2021

8

n NEWS

Children so happy to be back in class SCHOOLS have been welcoming back children who had been home learning for two months during the latest lockdown.

Secondary schools have had to put in place testing regimes, with pupils having three Covid-19 tests before returning, and being sent home with kits to carry out two more every week.

Teachers at all schools, which had remained open to key worker and vulnerable children throughout January and February, faced the challenge of settling those who had been learning remotely back into the classroom routine from March 8.

At Fishponds C of E Academy, pupils have had a series of special days to help them get back into learning.

Head teacher Debbie Coker said: "We have had a busy few weeks getting back into learning, with special days such as Science Day and World Maths Day." The maths day events included a tangram competition,

where children designed and created pictures using a Chinese puzzle containing five triangles, a square, and a parallelogram, which can be recombined to make many different shapes and patterns.

Mrs Coker added: "We also did Science day and explored designing and building towers, with two virtual engineers who inspired us to innovate and create which was the theme of our Day." At Minerva Primary Academy in Hillfields, principal Jennifer Harvey said staff had been working to re-establish class routines and high expectations.

There has been a focus on art, music and athletic activities, which were difficult to continue online during the lockdown, to help children with the transition back to school.

She said: "Having our Minerva Primary Academy community back together was a delight.

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A tangram rabbit in an artwork by a Fishponds C of E Academy pupil Music was among the activities helping children at Evergreen Primary Academy settle back into school "Seeing so many excited children rush in with smiling faces, eager to talk to their friends and teachers, was a joy.

"The classrooms and playground have once again become alive with the sound of children learning and playing.

"It has been a tough few months but I am sure with our Minerva ‘growth mindset’ and a fantastic team of staff working together with families, all children will re-engage with

Email: sales@fishpondsvoice.co.uk

learning and continue to make progress."

At Evergreen Primary Academy in Easton, activities which could not be carried on during lockdown have also proved popular, including outdoor forest school sessions, PE with help from Bristol Sport and a gardening club with help from the local police community support officer.

Principal Vicky Counsell said: "It’s been a joy-filled four weeks.

"We’ve been busy creating a pupil Eco Committee and announcing our new pupil Health and Safety Committee

Got News? Call Linda On 0777 0700579

fishpondsvoice

April, 2021

9

Nursery adopts new methods

Pupils at Fishponds C of E Academy create patterns using the tangram puzzle and held our first meetings where we’ve generated some great ideas on how to keep our Evergreen community healthy, happy and safe."

She said staff had been impressed with the way children and parents had adapted to safety and social distancing rules, both during school hours and at pick-up and drop-off times.

A NURSERY teacher at a Fishponds school has been learning new methods from Scandinavia to improve children's learning and wellbeing.

Claire Hawkins has spent two years studying Hygge in the Early Years, an approach which is inspired by Danish teaching methods to encourage more outdoor learning and openended, "child-led" play.

She has changed the nursery provision and routines to help give staff and children have a greater connection to nature, with youngsters at the provision, which caters for children from the age of three upwards, able to spend long periods playing in the outdoor area, whatever the weather, supported by Claire and a teaching assistant.

Hygge means finding contentment or well-being in simple, comforting things.

Claire said: "We have

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Claire Hawkins with children at the nursery at Fishponds CE Academy developed a love for the outdoors and I have noticed how children have progressed better since using this approach.

"Being outside and noticing the small things like a bud opening, a robin singing in the tree or a big muddy puddle to splash in has brought real joy to our days. I also noticed how children became more confident learners outside."

EDA

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Head teacher Debbie Coker said: "Claire is incredibly passionate about Early Years provision and ensuring that our children get the best start to their education. Claire works parttime in our school but, despite this, spends hours of her free time researching and studying and resourcing.

"As a result of this passion, our Early Years provision enables children to settle quickly and form strong relationships with our team. The children learn to appreciate nature and develop imaginative play and talk using natural resources. They make excellent progress and are ready to excel when they move to their Reception classes."

The nursery offers free places for 15 hours a week: the next intake from September will be of children who are three before August 31. Parents who want to find out more information can call 0117 903 0491.

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April, 2021

10

nB RISTOL MAYOR ELECTIONS

ELECTIONS

Special

Bristol will vote for its next Mayor on May 6.

Directly elected since 2012, the Bristol Mayor is in overall charge of the city council's cabinet and administration, policy, strategy and spending plans.

In many respects the elected Mayor is also the public face of the city, speaking on issues in the media and lobbying government in Bristol's interests.

Both the mayoral and council elections were postponed last year

due to the first lockdown, which means they now coincide with the elections for the West of England Mayor and the Police and Crime Commissioner.

The mayoral system of running the council remains controversial.

Supporters say it is the best way of making decisions and getting things done, while opponents claim it places too much power in one person's hands and shuts out councillors.

The elected Mayor of Bristol is a separate role to the Lord Mayor, a

ceremonial position filled each year by one of the city's councillors.

As they ask you to vote them into a new job, the Voice asked each mayoral candidate, from the parties who had informed us they were contesting the election, to answer four interview questions.

We did the same for the West of England mayoral candidated and those aiming to become Avon and Somerset's Police and Crime Commissioner.

See Pages 11 to 16

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To advertise, contact Caroline on 07453 954261

Email: sales@fishpondsvoice.co.uk

Got News? Call Linda On 0777 0700579

April, 2021

11

n BRISTOL MAYOR ELECTIONS Running for re-election this year for Labour is Marvin Rees, who has been his party's candidate in all three polls so far, losing the first to independent George Ferguson before winning in 2016.

The Conservatives were third five years ago. This year their candidate is Alastair Watson, a former city councillor, cabinet member and Lord Mayor.

The Greens, fourth in 2016,

What are the three biggest issues facing the city?

Caroline Gooch: Recovery from the pandemic comes first and foremost. My background as a scientist and in business gives me the perfect combination of experiences to lead the city’s recovery, both from a health perspective and economically.

The climate crisis requires urgent action, and we must play our part in this global challenge. The third is social justice: we must tackle the housing crisis, ensure high-equality education, and prioritise diversity and inclusion to give every individual an equal opportunity to succeed.

Sandy Hore-Ruthven: The key challenge is to recover our economy and make sure we don’t suffer high rates of unemployment and an economic slump after the pandemic. My plan for our economic recovery will create 10,000 new jobs and invest in local businesses. I will prioritise cutting congestion and improving public transport. I will invest £6m annually in our buses, a cycle network for Bristol and better pedestrian routes. Housing continues to be the other main issue, with rents and prices rising.

Marvin Rees: Jobs. Post Covid, we will need to build back better with a sustainable, inclusive recovery, as part of the One City Plan.

Homes. After the slowdown of housebuilding from Brexit and Covid, we will accelerate past our targets of 2,000 homes per year including 1,000 affordable, building communities and improving outcomes for all.

Marvin Rees

Alastair Watson

have selected Sandy HoreRuthven, a charity chief executive.

Sandy Hore-Ruthven

Medical science consultant Dr Caroline Gooch is the Liberal Democrats' candidate.

Dr Caroline Gooch

Two of the parties – the Tories and Liberal Democrats – say the role should be abolished.

Transport. We will prioritise public transport and active travel, building a low carbon mass transit system that will transform the way people move around the city.

plan to assist those badly affected

by Covid. Our retail, hospitality and leisure businesses have really suffered over the last 12 months and it is essential the council supports them.

a small East Bristol Charity to the largest of its kind. We support tens of thousands of young people, employ hundreds of staff and have brought derelict buildings back to life.

Alastair Watson: More homes and better housing – I will work closely with developers to bring forward those developments that provide affordable housing and deliver the next generation of council housing.

Better transport – I will work with neighbouring councils to deliver our rail ambitions and improve bus services across the city.

Economic recovery from Covid – the city centre is the beating heart of Bristol, along with all our smaller suburban high streets, and we must do everything we can to ensure their survival.

Caroline Gooch: I would find specialist school places for the 250 children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) with no specialist school place for September. Every child deserves to have their needs met, so this is a major priority.

Is the balance of power between the Bristol Mayor, councillors, Metro Mayor and government right?

If you win the election, what would your first action be?

Sandy Hore-Ruthven: I will put my economic recovery plan into place. It includes support for young people to get into work, investment in our local high streets, creative and hospitality businesses. In the long term I will create jobs through building 2,000 new council homes and insulating the existing stock – creating 10,000 new jobs and reducing emissions.

What prior experience do you believe qualifies you for the job?

Marvin Rees: I grew up here experiencing the best and worst of the city. I worked here: NHS, voluntary sector, BBC. Five years as mayor, delivering on homes, jobs, climate and ecology; facing the pandemic and austerity. I’ve got Bristol working together.

Alastair Watson: I have served as a Bristol city councillor and been Lord Mayor, so I know the whole city and understand how the council works. My background in business means I will make pragmatic decisions, ensuring less waste.

Marvin Rees: Thank Bristol for their support and get back to work with the city to deliver the One City Plan including the climate and ecological plans. We’ll keep on facing up to the key challenges and driving the change Bristol needs.

Caroline Gooch: As a scientist, with 20 years’ experience in business, I’ve worked with masses of information, the NHS, and budget constraints. 20 years as a rowing cox, rowing umpire, and residential tutor taught me to make difficult decisions and lead teams.

Alastair Watson: I will work with businesses to produce a practical

Sandy Hore-Ruthven: I have been a CEO for 15 years, growing

To advertise, contact Caroline on 07453 954261

Email: sales@fishpondsvoice.co.uk

Alastair Watson: The Bristol Mayor has too much power and cannot be held to account during their term of office. With the West of England Mayor in place and all-out elections for councillors, there is no need for an elected Bristol Mayor.

Caroline Gooch: No. The Bristol Mayor has too much power, rendering the councillors voiceless.

The narrower, more strategic remit of the Metro Mayor can benefit our city without us needing the Bristol Mayor. More devolution away from government would empower our communities.

Sandy Hore-Ruthven: No, the Mayor needs to be more accountable to the Council and I have plans to change the balance of power. I will have a cross party cabinet, strengthen scrutiny and abide by Council votes on large scale developments.

Marvin Rees: No. Government needs to release powers and funds to cities, who are far better placed to work with their communities on 21st century challenges, to enable us to properly plan and work for the city's best interests.

Got News? Call Linda On 0777 0700579

April, 2021

12

n P OLICE AND CRIME COMMISSIONER ELECTIONS Voters will have the chance in May to choose the next Avon and Somerset Police and Crime Commissioner.

The PCC is responsible for the effective policing of the region, drawing up a budget – including the annual precept charged to council tax payers – setting priorities for the force through a police and crime plan and holding the chief constable and officers to account for delivering it.

Since its creation in 2012 the post has been held by independent Sue Mountstevens, who is standing down.

Among those vying to replace her is John Smith, who is also standing as an independent and was Ms Mountstevens’s chief executive before she made him her

Kerry Barker

Cleo Lake

deputy last year.

Labour has nominated barrister Kerry Barker, runner-up in 2016, as its candidate. The Conservatives, third in 2016, have nominated Mark Shelford, a retired Army officer, B&NES councillor and member of the Police and Crime Panel which scrutinises the PCC.

What are your top three priorities for policing in Avon and Somerset?

building safer communities would be my way to achieve these three things.

Kerry Barker: Successful policing depends upon the gathering of local intelligence by local police officers. My priorities are: to strengthen community policing with more officers who live and work in the areas for which they are responsible; stop the closure of police stations; bring back and strengthen specialist detective teams, such as burglary teams and sexual assault teams. Each will have the aim of improving the welfare and safety of women.

Mark Shelford: Reassure residents the police are there for them: increase visible policing and work with communities to increase their resistant to crime; Refocus the police on fighting crimes people care about by freeing officers up from non-policing tasks; Rebuild morale on the frontline: overhaul training and cut paperwork to allow Police more time on our streets. Boost Special Constable numbers, review the use of police buildings, and investigate the efficiency of the current PCC office.

Cleo Lake: Trust – the police need to reflect the communities they work for. This requires active recruitment among under-represented groups, and supporting recruits through challenges. Prevention – reform of drug laws, which create needless criminals and victims - is required.

Focus should be on cybercrime, which denies many their savings, and road safety, including pavement parking. Despite budget pressures, the public deserve valuefor-money policing and for their priorities to be met.

Heather Shearer: Catch and prosecute burglars and scammers – currently only 8% of burglars are detected; Invest in responsive neighbourhood police teams so they can truly be part of their communities; Work more effectively with partner organisations across the county to target drugs and knife crime.

Focusing on crime prevention and

John Smith: As the only independent candidate, I will answer only to local residents, not to party politicians in Westminster.

If elected, I will make keeping everyone safe and secure my main priority, and my first focus will be on: Supporting the police to enforce Covid-19 regulations appropriately so we can get back to living normally as soon as possible; Protecting the most vulnerable in society, including children and victims of domestic violence; Tackling burglary, knife and drug crime including County Lines.

What prior experience do you believe qualifies you for the job?

Cleo Lake: I have wide experience in public life. Current Bristol councillor, Avon Fire Authority since 2017. Chair – Diversity Inclusion Cohesion Equalities,

To advertise, contact Caroline on 07453 954261

Mark Shelford

Heather Shearer

Police and Crime Panel vice-chair Heather Shearer is the Lib Dem choice.

The Greens have nominated Bristol councillor and ex Lord Mayor Cleo Lake.

As they ask you to vote them into a new job, the Voice asked each candidate to answer questions to find out more about who they are, their priorities and plans.

and People & Culture committees.

Former Chair of St Paul’s Carnival and Independent Advisory Group.

Bristol Lord Mayor, 2018/19.

Heather Shearer: I scrutinise the PCC as vice chair of the Police and Crime Panel and protect communities as a Safer Somerset Partnership member. I am not a career politician. I worked in many jobs so see the world from many viewpoints.

Mark Shelford: I was a soldier for 30 years, working with police around the world to fight crime and establish peace in diverse communities. As a councillor and member of the region’s Police and Crime Panel I’m clear what local police need.

John Smith: I have almost 12 years’ experience as a leader in Avon and Somerset police governance. I led the PCC’s team for eight years; in 2020 I was appointed Deputy PCC to help meet the challenges of policing during the pandemic.

Kerry Barker: As a criminal barrister working in Avon and Somerset, with 50 years’ experience, I know how budget cuts and local strategic decisions impact the ability of police officers to do their work; to detect crimes and to keep people safe.

How will your approach to the role differ from the current PCC’s?

Mark Shelford: I know how to lead and motivate a uniformed service,

Email: sales@fishpondsvoice.co.uk

John Smith

and how to properly consult and engage with voters. Our police do a difficult job with courage and skill: they need leadership that understands their and the community’s needs.

John Smith: As well as continuing current priorities such as road safety and anti-social behaviour, I will prioritise more areas that local people have told me need additional resources such as cyber crime and fraud, rural crime and business crime.

Kerry Barker: I will change strategies to make local policing the priority; stop closures of police stations; emphasise the welfare and safety of women and move back to specialist teams of detectives.

The soaring levels of violent and sexual offences are unacceptable.

Cleo Lake: I would be highly visible. I would like to work more closely with unions and Independent Advisory Groups to inform from a community perspective. I would support setting up both a youth and African Heritage IAG. Heather Shearer: I would ask difficult questions of the Constabulary and partners but also build effective working relationships.

My decisions would be evidencebased but you have to take people with you, especially when the decisions are not what everyone wants to hear .

• The election takes place on May 6, 2021

Got News? Call Linda On 0777 0700579

April, 2021

13

nM ETRO MAYOR ELECTIONS In May voters in South Gloucestershire, Bristol and B&NES get to choose their next Metro Mayor.

The boss of the West of England Combined Authority, or WECA, is in charge of coordinating the region’s transport, housing jobs and skills policy and will oversee the spending of more than £1.1 billion over the next 30 years.

The first Metro Mayor, Conservative Tim Bowles, is standing down and, while nominations were still open as the Voice went to print, the main political parties had already announced their contenders for the post.

Samuel Williams

Dan Norris

Aiming to keep it for the Tories is Samuel Williams, the founding director of Hodos Consultancy.

Labour, runners-up in 2017, have selected former Wansdyke MP Dan Norris.

Stephen Williams

Former Bristol West MP Stephen Williams is the Liberal Democrats’ choice.

The Green Party has picked Jerome Thomas, deputy group leader on Bristol City Council.

1) What are the three biggest issues facing the region?

safe cycling. Third, a plan to build socially balanced new communities with climate-friendly homes.

how we could work together to improve the quality of life in their neighbourhoods.

Dan Norris: Jobs, climate change and housing. The pandemic has exacerbated the need for effective leadership. It’s not good enough to have money to support our High Streets languishing in the Metro Mayor’s bank account. We can’t wait any longer to take action on climate change and we need more affordable homes. I have a vision for a green recovery, building a society where we value what’s truly important.

Jerome Thomas: Obviously our recovery after Covid – we need to support communities and businesses to rebuild and adapt, ensuring that we are creating jobs that have a future. To protect the climate, we need to build homes in places with good local services and transport links which allow people to get around quickly without needing to use their cars.

And for our well-being as well as the environment, we must protect and improve our green spaces and wildlife areas.

Dan Norris: I’ll be a jobs-first mayor, holding a jobs summit in my first 100 days in office and launching my Green Recovery Plan. I’ll set out plans to double investment in affordable housing, shifting resources to support councils and housing associations.

Samuel Williams: Jobs, Jobs and Jobs! Our region is full of opportunity; as we recover from the impacts of Covid, following the tremendous vaccine roll-out, I will connect all communities across the West of England with the opportunity to secure our future progress. I will invest over £100 million over the next four years to secure the recovery of our skills, training and business. In addition, I will invest in our transport network with new services and build homes for the future.

Stephen Williams: First, a recovery from the twin economic shocks of Covid and Brexit. I will lead a recovery that is green and socially just, setting up a Centre for Green Technology Excellence and using the skills budget to make sure everyone has the opportunity to succeed. Second, putting more oomph and vigour behind plans to revolutionise our bus and train networks and to enable

2) If you win the election, what would your first action be?

Samuel Williams: It is vital that the mayor works with Government not against it. Once in post, I’ll pick up the phone to the Prime Minister and Chancellor to secure their support for the region – and it’s a call they’ll take.

Stephen Williams: I have a detailed manifesto for transformative change in the West of England, on my website at www. stephenwilliams.org.uk. I would run through my top priorities with all the staff of the regional authority, setting out milestones for action.

Jerome Thomas: I would meet with local town and parish councils to hear what their priorities are and

To advertise, contact Caroline on 07453 954261

3) What prior experience do you believe qualifies you for the job?

Stephen Williams: To be successful, this major role needs a mayor with deep knowledge of both business and government.

I was a small business consultant before becoming a Bristol MP and then Minister for housing and local government.

Jerome Thomas: I’ve had a long career in business and been a city councillor for six years. I’ve lived in this region most of my life. Above all, I know how to create a realistic plan bringing people together, whatever their politics.

Dan Norris: I’ve lived and worked locally all my life as an NSPCC trained child protection officer, an MP and Environment Minister, and I’ve run my own businesses. I’ve got a record of securing jobs and investment. I’m a children’s charity trustee.

Samuel Williams: As an

Email: sales@fishpondsvoice.co.uk

Jerome Thomas

As they ask you to vote them into a new job, the Voice asked each candidate to answer four interview questions to find more about who they are, their priorities and plans. international business and charity leader, this is the chance to recover with a mayor who embodies the future, who connects opportunities and is committed to business minded and community hearted leadership, not the time for old solutions.

4) How would you raise the profile of the Metro Mayor and WECA? Jerome Thomas: First, I want to do a good job for the region and deliver a solid plan with communities at its heart. Second, I will stand up for the West of England and secure more funds and local control of services.

Dan Norris: I’ll be a visible, active mayor holding regular Town Hall meetings. I’ll win more funding and push for more powers for our region. With strong leadership, I’ll ensure the West of England is a key part of the national conversation.

Samuel Williams: Having led an organisation that works with some of the world’s biggest brands, I know how to grow our profile. With Conservatives at the top levels of Government I am well connected, with a region full of talent.

Stephen Williams: I’d stage a Meet the Mayor roadshow around all the region’s towns and villages and in the distinct communities of Bath and Bristol. I would use my experience to deliver my ambitious plans and win great deals from Westminster.

Got News? Call Linda On 0777 0700579

April, 2021

14

n CITY COUNCIL ELECTIONS BRISTOL residents will go to the polls on May 6 to elect new members of Bristol City Council.

All 70 seats on the council are up for grabs, in an election which will take place at the same time as the votes for the Bristol Mayor, Metro Mayor and Avon & Somerset Police and Crime Commissioner.

The city council elections were supposed to have taken place last year but were postponed due to the first lockdown.

This year arrangements are being made

EASTVILLE WARD BRISTOL City Council's Eastville ward covers Fishponds Road and streets on either side of it, from the junction with Stapleton Road up to Hockeys Lane and Channons Hill.

It includes Eastville Park, Greenbank Cemetery, the areas of Stapleton around Colston's School roads around Small Lane, south of Blackberry Hill, Thingwall Park, Royate Hill, Rose Green, Clay bottom and Clay Hill. To the south it extends to parts of Speedwell north of Speedwell Road, including streets on either side of Brook Road and Whitefield Road.

In the last election in 2016 Labour won both seats. One of the councillors elected, Sultan Khan, defected to the Liberal Democrats.

The other, Mhairi Threlfall, is not standing in this year's election.

The Voice asked the city's political parties to send a picture and some details of their candidates for the election.

They appear here in alphabetical order:

Marley Bennett (Labour)

to ensure all elections are covid-secure, including one-way systems, social distancing, face coverings and sanitising at polling stations, where voters will also be invited to bring their own pen or pencil if they prefer. Polling stations will be open from 7am to 10pm.

Postal and proxy votes will also be available.

People have until April 19 to register to vote, which can be done online at www. gov.uk/register-to-vote.

Anyone not online who wants to check if they are registered can call 0117 922

3400 for help.

At present the council has 33 Labour members, 14 Conservatives, 11 Greens and 9 Liberal Democrats. Three seats were vacant going into the election, where councillors had resigned and byelections have not taken place.

In the Greater Fishponds area there are three council wards, each with two seats: Eastville, Frome Vale and Hillfields.

Here we profile each ward, and the candidates who have informed the Voice that they are standing for election.

make Eastville the best place it can be to live. I’ve worked for the MP for Bristol East, Kerry McCarthy, for the past 3 years. As a result, I’ve been involved in a wide range of local events and residents’ meetings, so I have a strong sense of the issues that are important to the community. I hope to be able to work to empower people and improve the area.

Sultan Khan (Liberal Democrats)

Mohammad Rashid (Lib Dems)

Lorraine Francis (Green)

The Liberal Democrats have listed sitting councillor Sultan Khan on their website as one of their candidates for the election.

The Liberal Democrats have listed Mohammad Rashid on their website as one of their candidates for the election.

Sangeetha Wynter (Labour)

Justin Quinnell (Green)

Lorraine is a Social Worker, fully accredited counsellor and is determined to work hard and stand up for the people of Eastville.

Lorraine cares about the wellbeing of others and wants to continue to work alongside other local volunteers and activists to make changes to the issues which residents have spoken to her about, including transport, litter and fly-tipping and intrusive anti-social behaviour. The lack of facilities for young people and working alongside other groups such as Acorn, to tackle housingrelated issues.

By electing Lorraine, you will have a hard-working and visible councillor, willing to listen to the community's needs.

I am closely connected to Eastville; I learnt to swim in the Speedwell Swimming Pool and first played football in Eastville Park. I’ve loved growing up here and want to

To advertise, contact Caroline on 07453 954261

Justin is a local campaigner focusing on issues of transport, housing, education and green spaces. He is involved in Friends of Eastville Park and was an original member of Sustrans in 1977. As well as a University lecturer he is a director of the Real Photography CIC, working with local charities and primary schools from the community darkrooms at St Paul's learning Centre.

Justin is actively campaigning against the continual creep of building on patches of Green land surrounding Eastville Park, such as the planned housing estate at Bridge Farm and the destruction of the Merchant Arms garden.

Email: sales@fishpondsvoice.co.uk

I have grown up in Fishponds and have volunteered in the community since leaving school. I am passionate about helping people and currently work as a teacher at an alternative provision.

Since being selected, I have already organised litter picks and attended many community meetings alongside Marley, my running mate. All this experience has enabled me to gain a sense of what’s happening in the area. I am really excited about the prospect of representing a diverse ward like Eastville. Being a young councillor is an advantage as I have the time and energy to commit to this role.

The Conservatives say they will announce their candidates for Eastville on April 9.

Got News? Call Linda On 0777 0700579

April, 2021

15

n CITY COUNCIL ELECTIONS FROME VALE WARD BRISTOL City Council's Frome Vale ward covers an area including Oldbury Court, Broomhill and Begbrook Park.

Bounded by the M32 in the north west, it includes streets north and east of Blackberry Hill and Snowdon Road, including Manor Road, and those either side of Fishponds Road between Hockeys Lane and the Cross Hands, including New Station Road and Beechwood Road.

Streets either side of Downend Road and Frenchay Park Road, up to the South Gloucestershire boundary, are also part of Frome Vale ward.

In the last election in 2016 one seat was won by Labour and one by the Conservatives. Labour's Nicola Bowden-Jones is not standing for re-election this year but Lesley Alexander will defend her seat for the Tories.

The Voice asked the city's political parties to send a picture and some details of their candidates for the election.

They appear here in alphabetical order:

Amal Ali (Labour)

Jesse Meadows (Green)

It is a great honour to be selected as the Labour and Co-Operative Party candidate. I have lived in Bristol for 18 years and am a mum of an autistic child. Over the years I have witnessed how income inequality has deeply impacted people’s lives, especially during the last year, when many people have lost their jobs and had their lives changed due to the pandemic. I want to continue to support my wider community and be a strong advocate for the residents of Frome Vale ward, making sure all issues and concerns are dealt with as soon as possible.

Jesse Meadows is a theatre maker and co-founder of the Wardrobe Ensemble. Jesse has been a dedicated and active campaigner for the Green Party for many years. As a councillor she will prioritise local issues that matter to you, such as traffic congestion and access to local libraries. Jesse is backing Sandy for Mayor of Bristol; with his successful record as a Chief Executive and his economic recovery plan, Bristol would thrive under his leadership.

undergone resurgence ever since its publication of the New Declaration. The party stands for: a red approach to economics and a blue perspective on culture.

What would such a political pedigree bring to the city of Bristol? The party emphasises the importance of strong Families and Communities. The revival of these pillars of society can be pursued at the local level. Therefore I am committed to pursuing agendas and actions which would help strengthen them. I sincerely believe in what I stand for and I ask for your support.

Mike Wollacott (Labour)

Pooja Poddar (Conservative)

Ed Fraser (Green)

Lesley Alexander (Conservative)

Lesley will fight for local residents at City Hall and will make sure the Council listens to the concerns of locals.

Lesley has a positive vision for our area which includes: fighting for a new pedestrian crossing at the junction of River View; renovating Fishponds play area; putting pressure on the Labour Mayor to return to regular street sweeping; campaign to remove car parking charges at Oldbury Court and other local parks; work with the community to improve multicultural diversity in the area.

Lesley will be a strong and positive voice for Frome Vale.

Ed Fraser is a Bristol-based community organiser, previously working in project management and education.

Ed is concerned about the way Bristol Council spends taxpayers’ money, including huge financial waste on Bristol Energy and the Bristol Beacon, while public such as the parks and green spaces we’ve relied on over the last year suffer from underinvestment.

He is also a public advocate for autism in the workplace, previously appearing in campaigns with the National Autistic Society.

Pooja will fight for local residents at City Hall and will make sure the Council listens to the concerns of locals.

Pooja has a positive vision for our area which includes: fighting for a new pedestrian crossing at the junction of River View; renovating Fishponds play area; putting pressure on the Labour Mayor to return to regular street sweeping; campaign to remove car parking charges at Oldbury Court and other local parks; work with the community to improve multicultural diversity in the area.

Pooja will be a strong and positive voice for Frome Vale.

Tommy Trueman (Social Democrat Party) Yes, the SDP are still going! The Social Democrat Party have

I have lived in Fishponds for the past 20 years and have a good understanding of issues locally.

Living on Fishponds Road, I am acutely aware of pollution levels and the importance of protecting our green infrastructure. I served for six years as a councillor from 2010, in Bristol, and worked for Royal Mail for over 20 years, many as a union representative, so I have a broad experience of representing people. I am currently a carer, so understand the impact that austerity has had, and recognise the need to have a strong local voice to protect our communities.

The Voice has not received any information from the Liberal Democrats about the party's candidates for Frome Vale and the party has not posted any details on its website.

REMEMBER TO CAST YOUR VOTES ON MAY 6 To advertise, contact Caroline on 07453 954261

Email: sales@fishpondsvoice.co.uk

Got News? Call Linda On 0777 0700579

April, 2021

16

n CITY COUNCIL ELECTIONS HILLFIELDS WARD BRISTOL City Council's Hillfields ward covers the Hillfields estate as well as Mayfield Park and Chester Park.

It includes all streets leading off Lodge Causeway, Lodge Hill and Lodge Road, from the parts of Ridgeway Road east of the Bristol and Bath Railway Path to the streets surrounding Cossham Hospital, up to Ingleside Road and the boundary with South Gloucestershire.

Filwood Road and Forest Road are also in the Hillfields ward.

In the last election in 2016 both seats were won by Labour. Cabinet councillor Craig Cheney will defend his seat in May, while Anna Keen is not seeking re-election.

The Voice asked the city's political parties to send a picture and some details of their candidates for the election.

They appear here in alphabetical order: Lisa Calder (Green) Lisa hopes to represent the local Hillfields area for the Green Party.

Local Green councillors will work hard for you, on local issues.

Greens are free to stand up for what matters to the local area.

Lisa is backing Green Mayor candidate Sandy's economic recovery plan for Bristol and says: "He is a proven leader who will get our city back on its feet, and thrive.”

Craig Cheney (Labour) Craig Cheney has been the councillor for Hillfields since 2015 and since 2016 has been in the Mayor’s cabinet with responsibility for Finance.

Since 2017 he has been Deputy

Mayor. Craig is trustee of local organisations Hillfields Families & Community Trust, Barton Fields Trust and helped set up the Friends of Coombe Brook with local residents. He lives in Hillfields, with his wife and two children, and is proud of his community and wants everyone to feel the same.

Ellie King (Labour) "I have lived in Fishponds for eight years, raising my young family here, and I care deeply about making our community the best it can be for now and for future generations. I am keen to hear your concerns and aspirations for Hillfields and, if elected, I would work hard to bring people together on projects and issues that will enrich our community.

Our collective well-being and compassion for the environment

will underpin everything we do. I look forward to meeting you soon."

Rick Lovering (Green) Rick has lived in Fishponds for over 35 years. Until recently, he was a teacher of maths at a school in Yate.

He is a keen cyclist and used to commute the nine miles each way to Yate throughout the year.

Rick lives close to the Bristol to Bath Railway Path and would like to maintain and improve this key facility for travel and recreation. He has helped with litter picks with Sustrans and another community group. He is a volunteer member of the council’s snow patrol and clears railway path access paths.

The Conservatives say they will announce candidates for Hillfields on April 9. The Voice has not had a response from the Lib Dems.

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Got News? Call Linda On 0777 0700579

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fishpondsvoice

18

n NEWS

April, 2021

'Please reopen park'

Syed's service earns Lord Mayor's Medal

A MUM is calling for the city council to hurry up and reopen a play park which has been closed for nearly six months.

The children's playground at Begbrook Green Park was closed in October for new surfacing to be installed, and the gates locked to prevent people getting in.

But one mum who visited the park with her two-year-old daughter before it was shut says nothing has happened since.

The Begbrook resident, who asked not to be named, said: "The workers dumped a load of wood chip and then locked the gates.

"The signs say it would be completed in November but by March there was still nothing."

The mum said she had not received an explanation for the delay despite asking the council's parks department and her local councillors in Frome Vale ward to look into the issue.

She said: "It really is very disappointing that the only playground in this area has

A FISHPONDS man has been honoured for his work in the community during the pandemic.

Syed Ajaz Hussain was one of 13 city residents who were presented with the Lord Mayor’s Medal in March in recognition of outstanding community work.

The awards, now in their 38th year, salute individuals for their volunteering efforts and this year recognise people and groups who have committed time and effort to support those affected by Covid-19.

The range of work recognised included providing personal protective equipment, food parcels, youth work and making improvements to their neighbourhoods.

Mr Hussain has been honoured for his work as a volunteer and secretary of the Avon Muslim Funeral Committee, working with faith communities, local businesses and public health champions to promote social distancing and take precautionary measures.

His award citation said: "He has helped foster a better understanding of Muslim traditions, pre-funeral requirements and offered to assist, voluntarily, any families that require support coping with bereavement.

"He has raised awareness of the coronavirus risk to health public health to Bristol’s South Asian and Muslim communities and pushed the importance of vaccines."

Lord Mayor Jos Clark congratulated each medal recipient via a personal Zoom call, with a celebratory event planned later.

The locked play area been closed the entirety of this lockdown.

"Playgrounds are a lifeline for our children and it has been heartbreaking for my daughter to not be able to use it when it is right on our doorstep.

"We have been told to stay local but our local area does not have adequate facilities."

The Voice has asked the city council for a comment on the delay to the work.

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April, 2021

n NEWS FISHPONDS' MP cut the ribbon to open the new library at Avanti Gardens School.

Bristol East MP Kerry McCarthy stayed to read Year 3 pupils a story after a ceremony to mark the latest stage in an overhaul after the former Steiner Academy Bristol became a primary school.

Based at the former UWE St Mathias campus in College Road, the school already has a craft room, art, woodwork and pottery studios, a lecture theatre complete with stage, a dining hall and sports hall.

Avanti Schools Trust, which took over the school last year, re-equipped and decorated classrooms before the start of the academic year and the library is the latest project to be finished.

Principal Ashley Milum said: "We are determined to develop a culture of learners who simply love to read.

"As part of our focus, we have fully re-developed our school library to inspire our pupils to enjoy and be immersed in books.

"Altogether, our children are feeling incredibly supported and inspired to develop their love for

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MP Kerry cuts ribbon to open new school library

MP Kerry McCarthy opens the Avanti Gardens School library and reads children a story.

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"The staff and pupils are

very excited to kick start our #lovetoread initiative."

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22

April, 2021

n NEWS

Would you like a community garden?

A CORNER of a Fishponds field could be transformed into a community garden if a new project wins support.

The triangular patch of land at Meadowsweet field, next to Snowdon Road allotments and behind the Bristol Metropolitan Academy all-weather sports pitch, is currently unmown meadow grass.

If the new scheme wins enough support and council backing, it could become home to a project to grow fruit and vegetables, teach about biodiversity and create a sensory garden to help children learn about the natural world.

The project is the idea of Bliss Hill, a Fishponds resident who was inspired to do something to help children connect with nature after the birth of her daughter Rosa, who is 20 months old.

Bliss is bringing her experience as a landscape gardener and of working on

Bliss Hill with her partner Guy Dobson and daughter Rosa at the area which could become a new community garden neighbourhood activities during lockdown to the project.

She originally aimed to make use of some land behind All Saints Church in Grove Road but when she contacted the church to enquire about the land, she found that it had already been sold to a developer.

By that stage Bliss says more than 100 people had expressed an interest in the idea, so she

started looking for another piece of land and contacted the city council, which will decide whether to let the project use the land.

With a group of fellow residents she hopes to set up Fishponds Community Garden, a community interest company which would be responsible for the upkeep of the garden.

Bliss said the garden would

be open for anyone to access and could include an orchard and space for activities, including after-school clubs and therapy sessions.

She said: "It would be multigenerational, with raised beds which would be accessible for elderly and disabled people and children, to teach them about growing and help them learn about fruit and vegetables.

"Having a child and thinking about what future we are leaving for our children has been my real inspiration."

To gauge interest in the scheme, an online survey has been produced. It can be found at bit.ly/2PbeOiY or via a post on the Greater Fishponds News and Views Facebook page.

A meeting was due to be held as the Voice went to press involving some of the scheme's initial supporters.

More details of how to get involved were due to be made available after the meeting.

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fishpondsvoice

April, 2021

n NEWS

23

n ADVERTISING FEATURE

E-scooters trial comes to Fishponds

Colston’s expands Year 5 provision as demand grows

A TRIAL of rentable electric scooters now covers part of Fishponds.

The one-year West of England e-scooter trial, originally launched in central Bristol and Bath last October, is the only way to ride the vehicles legally.

Electric scooter firm Voi Technologies now has more than 500 vehicles available for hire across the region and has announced that from now, Hillfields has been added to the areas involved in the trial, along with St George, Downend and Staple Hill.

The red Voi e-scooters have already started to appear on the streets of Fishponds and parked on pavements.

In areas where the trial has been running for longer, Voi is coming under pressure to make sure parked scooters do not get in the way of pedestrians and people using wheelchairs or pushchairs.

The e-scooters are intended for use on short journeys people would otherwise take in a car. They can be hired either on a shortterm basis, where users pay an unlocking fee then a charge per minute of use, or on a long-term rental.

People who want to rent one need to download an app from the company's website and use the built-in map to find their nearest scooter. Users have to be 18 or over and have a full or provisional driving licence, as the e-scooters are for riding on the road rather than on pavements. They can only be used in areas taking part in the trial and use GPS "geofencing" technology to switch off the motor when an e-scooter reaches the boundary of the trial area.

ONE of Bristol’s leading independent schools has announced ambitious plans to expand their Year 5 provision from September 2021.

Colston’s Lower, a co-educational day school located in Stapleton, will be opening an additional class for children entering Year 5 following an increase in demand, enabling the school to maintain an average class size of 18.

Mr Edwards, Head of Colston’s Lower said: “We are really excited to be in the position to welcome additional Year 5 students from September, and whilst an ambitious move, are confident that the interest we’ve already seen will continue.

“This past year has been far from easy, in particular for parents, and I believe that the home-schooling provision we were able to deliver for all our pupils has highlighted one of the many benefits an independent education can bring.

“Plus, parents for whom Colston’s may have been a destination for Year 7 may wish to take advantage of this opportunity to help us support pupils ahead of the entrance assessments sat in Year 6. We are confident that any pupils who joins us for Year 5 will thrive in our nurturing and supportive environment.”

Colston’s are holding a virtual Whole School Open event on Friday 30th April from 9.30am, which will include a session with Mr Edwards to discuss Year 5 opportunities. To register to attend the event, please visit colstons. org or call the Admissions Team on 0117 992 3194 or email admissions@ colstons.org.

DISCOVER WHAT COLSTON’S CAN OFFER YOUR CHILD Join our

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fishpondsvoice

April, 2021

25

n ADVERTISING FEATURE

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With access to a wide range of workshops, Donna has so far attended online sessions on marketing, time management, finance, and branding and sustainability, as well as joining a dedicated business women in Bristol networking group.

With a young baby at home, Donna has found the e-learning platforms and workshops to be a

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fishpondsvoice

April, 2021

27

n NEWS

BS16 Wildlife Group: Join us FOR the past couple of years, budding groups of conservationists have been busying themselves with protecting and enhancing the conditions for wildlife in their local green spaces.

Most of them volunteers, they are driven by the passion to coexist alongside wildlife in a more balanced way and to provide it with a better chance of survival in our dramatically-altered world.

This has seen groups carrying out a wide array of tasks over the years, from creating nature trails to reintroducing native wildflowers to the green spaces, with many things in between.

One of the projects is the creation of wildlife groups for each postcode within Bristol. These aim to map out and survey all the green spaces in and around the city, from cemeteries to local nature reserves, to determine the extent to which nature is thriving. This information will then be presented in a report

and updated regularly, to monitor the distribution of wildlife over time and highlight any issues, such as species loss.

My Wild Bedminster and the Avon Wildlife Trust were the catalyst of this extensive project, which has now attracted the help of Groundwork’s Young Ranger groups and students from the University of the West of England.

All share the passion to improve the environment and understand the importance of an abundant variety of different species in our habitats, in order to keep ecosystems strong and resilient.

We hope you would agree that our green spaces are important for the health and well-being of not just us but of all the species we share this space with, and that every one of us has a part to play in the journey towards strengthening the biodiversity of our beautiful city. Therefore, we’d love to invite all to join the

A heron on Eastville Park lake BS16 Wildlife Group on Facebook, to receive local updates on this project, and to share any wildlife news, photography, ideas and events with fellow nature lovers.

Alternatively, we’d love to hear from you by email at bs16.wildlifegroup@gmail.com.

A great place to start is to think about things you can do in

your own green space. Adding a birdhouse or limiting the use of harmful pesticides in your garden will help to increase the variety of species that will come to enjoy your garden, providing them with the food and shelter they need to let their numbers thrive.

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fishpondsvoice

April, 2021

n ADVERTISING FEATURE

Post-pandemic boost for creative education BRISTOL educator boomsatsuma is expanding, teaming up with George Ferguson to drive for change, with new studios in the Tobacco Factory to host four creative BA (Hons) degrees.

Work is underway installing the purposebuilt education facility, which will welcome students in September 2021. It will comprise two new film studios, a screening lecture space, computer suite, games lab, darkroom and specially designed creative space, where students can develop and discuss ideas in an inspiring environment.

Mark Curtis, boomsatsuma director, states: “We’re very excited to be located at the Tobacco Factory - what a great place to live, learn and tap into the opportunities afforded by the Bristol Creative industries. Tobacco factory’s success perfectly illustrates what can be achieved by and for the people of our city. “ The new degrees have been accredited by Bath Spa University, whose Head of School of Creative Industries and board member of Bristol Creative Industries, Dr Susan McMillan states: “I am a huge supporter of boomsatsuma: they are reaching parts that Universities and other colleges cannot reach, as well as developing future creative talent in new and exciting ways.

“The creative industries deliver significant economic, social and reputational value to Bristol, the region, and the UK's economy.”

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Pictured left to right: George Ferguson, Mark Curtis and Freya Billington Freya Billington is the course director of boomsatsuma’s two new BA (Hons) Filmmaking degrees specialising in production and post-production. She says: “In keeping with boomsatsuma’s ethos, this degree has been designed alongside our industry partners to specifically address where the skill shortages are and help develop graduates that are completely prepared and ready for employment. The two pathways, Production and Post-Production, allow for students to engage with and develop an understanding of the whole filmmaking process but also specialise up to a professional level in their chosen field. Whilst the studios will

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be equipped with current Industry-standard equipment and software, capping the intake also enables a focus on each student’s individual career and personal development.”

Alongside the Film degree, the Tobacco Factory will house boomsatsuma’s Games Art VFX BA (Hons) and Documentary Photography BA (Hons) degrees, in addition to the Bristol School of Acting’s new partnership, located in Tobacco Factory Theatres, with its Acting for Screen BA (Hons) and accelerated Acting for Stage & Screen BA (Hons).

Building on 13 years of successfully delivering post-16 level 3 diplomas in digital and creative qualifications, the new location strengthens boomsatsuma’s partnerships, adding to course locations with Bristol creative companies at The Royal Photographic Society, The Bottle Yard Studios, Films @ 59, Ashton Gate Stadium and the Engine Shed.

George Ferguson CBE, the city’s first independent Mayor, and creator of the Tobacco Factory mixed use project, states: “We are delighted to be part of what we see as a sustainable recovery from this culturally and economically bruising pandemic. We could not have a better start than giving our young people the chance to grow and meet their full potential.”

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Got News? Call Linda On 0777 0700579

fishpondsvoice kingswoodvoice

February 2021 April, 2021

15 29

n WILL & PROBATE ADVICE

Staying open at Kings Chase, Kingswood LOCAL Wills experts Simpson Solicitors remain OPEN in the Kings Chase shopping centre in Kingswood (opposite Costa Coffee) during the lockdown to help readers of Kingswood, Downend and Fishponds Voice.

The Government have identified the importance of having up to date Wills and Powers of Attorney in place during the COVID pandemic. The team at Simpson Solicitors have again been designated as key workers.

So please support this local service and “Shop Local”.

Solicitor, John Baden-Daintree says “If you became seriously ill or died, having Powers of Attorney and a Will in place is the only way you can make sure your wishes are followed. Not having them in place can cause great difficulty to your family.”

To find how they can help you or members of your family, just telephone 0117 960 8594 or pop into Simpson Solicitors to arrange a FREE Review Meeting with a friendly advisor. They will take as long as you need to guide you. They provide a COVID safe environment and you can choose your preferred way to get the ball rolling: ● Telephone Meeting ● Zoom Video Meeting (they can help you set this up)

● In person at your home ● In person at their offices If you then go ahead our readers will be offered 20% OFF their already competitive charges. Their No Hidden Costs service includes amendments and a supported Signing Meeting as well as free storage of your documents. This local, award winning service is designed to give you the peace of mind that everything has been prepared properly and is legally valid.

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fishpondsvoice

30

April, 2021

n THOUGHT FOR THE MONTH

A time to heal – from Ecclesiastes to Easter TIME has done funny things in this last year. It feels as if all our rhythms of life have been upended and we have had to manage time in a very different way.

Thinking about time, this month marks a whole year now of a pandemic. People are now having “second lockdown birthdays”. As this April 2021 and Easter comes around again it is a passage from Ecclesiastes that I have been pondering.

(Ecclesiastes is bang on half way through the bible if you open it in the middle - it will be somewhere near there!)

In Chapter 3 of Ecclesiastes the writer speaks about time. That there is a time for everything. A time for different seasons. A time for different actions. A time for different emotions. It speaks of a time of mourning and a time of dancing, a time to plant and a

time to uproot, a time to search and a time to give up. It speaks of a time to heal.

More and more I am convinced as I listen to different people about their experiences of the last year, I am sure that as a world, as a country and as this small community of Fishponds that we need that time of healing more than ever. And yet what does that look like? What does healing look like?

It may well as we emerge to less restrictions look like being able to see people who we haven’t for over a year. It may mean a gentle walk to the shops for the first time in months. It may mean emerging slowly and taking our time to see how the world has changed and who we are now as a people.

To seek healing can mean making peace with friends and family and neighbours, where

perhaps fractious encounters and conversations (online and off!) due to heightened anxiety and stress has led to broken relationships. It might look like making time for conversations that are more in depth and less fleeting than before. Checking in and saying not just “How are you?”

– but - “How has it been for you”.

A time of healing will no doubt involve a lot of listening. A lot of grieving. A lot of catch up and a lot of time to reflect on who now we might be.

Easter is for Christians the “great re-set”. It is a time of tension between the cross and the empty tomb. It is a time of mourning and a time of celebration. It is the place and time when Christians believe that God completely re set the way of the world through breaking the power and fear that death holds over humanity, and making us

Revd Lizzie Kesteven All Saints and St Mary's Churches, Fishponds a resurrection people. A people who believe that death in the light of Jesus resurrection has been transformed. It is ultimately a time of healing.

I hope and pray that in this time – between the wisdom of Ecclesiastes and the place of Easter - that we will indeed all of us in Fishponds in different ways take the time to heal.

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fishpondsvoice

April, 2021

31

n PLANNING MATTERS WITH CHRIS GOSLING

The eye of the beholder THE emerging new agenda for planning has made good use of the slogan Build Back Better, but at the same time the word beauty has cropped up on a regular basis – often enough to signal that us planners are going to need new strings to our bows.

After years of having to be the arbiters of good design, it seems likely that a new type of judgement will be required of the next generation of planners – the appreciation and encouragement of beauty, to ensure that our built environment exhibits it.

Of course, just so everyone is sure of what is beautiful, design codes will need to be met.

The national version of the design code is being drawn up at the moment. Hopefully they will provide some clarification of what beauty is, otherwise it will remain in the eye of the beholder. Once again, the outcome for all of us will be determined by the quality, strength and clarity of policy.

Somehow this challenge will also

have to meet the simplification agenda.

I have written before about design codes, optimistically put forward as the shining path leading to all new development being of the quality of Bath and Edinburgh New Town.

While there is nothing at all wrong with aiming high, I can‘t help noting that Bath was built using local materials which were plentiful at that time, when labour was cheap and replaceable, while health and safety legislation was a mere pipe dream for the builders four storeys up.

At the same time, there were no planners for the master architects to appease and, as far as my knowledge of 18th century history goes, no public consultation either.

I think that these factors reduce the chance of a new Bath being built, but time will no doubt tell.

In the meantime, we need to come to terms with what is beautiful and what isn’t.

That is something perhaps more fitting for a fine art degree course,

but until the courts come up with their interpretation, it is something that planners seem likely to have to wrestle with.

The concept is not entirely new in planning. After all, it is incumbent to consider the impact of development on the natural beauty of an area when dealing with Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

That is a situation where the beauty is already defined as being all around the site. Someone else has defined it, and the assessment is of how development will affect it.

Building Back Beautiful is not so straightforward.

In much the same way as good design should fit its context, it can be said to be beautiful. But that is probably not quite enough in a situation where all new buildings seem likely to be rejected if they are not beautiful enough.

With such an abstract concept it is hard enough to even see the bar, let alone work out how high it has been set.

This is the sort of aesthetic

argument that was first ushered in by the allowance in the National Planning Policy Framework for houses in isolated locations in the countryside (known as paragraph 79 houses).

This calls for design of exceptional quality that is truly outstanding or innovative, reflecting the highest standards in architecture.

Now that is a high bar. There is a strong chance that the requirement for beauty will mean that something similar, requiring an equally hard to define judgement, will be expected of all development.

Chrisgoslingplanning@gmail.com

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April, 2021

33

n NEWS

Park path approved in spite of protests CAMPAIGNERS have failed in a bid to stop Bristol City Council changing the surface of a new path in Stoke Park.

The mile-long shared route for pedestrians and cyclists, at the north-western edge of the park next to the M32, was granted planning permission in 2019, despite 50 objections and a 480-name petition urging councillors to reject it.

After input from conservation body Historic England, planners decided that the path, running from Sir Johns Lane in Lockleaze to Jellicoe Avenue on the Stoke Park housing estate, should have a bound gravel surface.

But a council development control committee was told that gravel had been found to be unsuitable for steep sections.

So the council, which owns the parkland, applied to change it to asphalt and quartzite stone – prompting a further 93 objections from the public.

Committee members unanimously voted in favour of the change at the end of February, after hearing that Historic England supported it.

Officers also told them that the "public benefits would outweigh the harm" to

Stoke Park the designated heritage asset and site of nature conservation interest, which is in a conservation area.

Lockleaze ward councillor Gill Kirk said the path, following a historic carriageway, was badly needed because much of the park was inaccessible to wheelchair users and buggies, due to long-running problems with mud.

She said: “Where we don’t have proper paths this has resulted in a great churning up of mud and damage to the fields, to the point that the parks vehicles have been unable to access the park this winter to do essential

maintenance to the gates, entrances and infrastructure.

“If this continues, the grassland will deteriorate and damage the ecology of the estate."

Friends of Stoke Park member Stephen Bartle said that laying more than 5,000 square metres of modern asphalt in “pristine and sensitive parkland” was unacceptable.

A planning officer told the remote meeting that the bound gravel "likely would have degraded very quickly over time, with use and weather, resulting in potholes" and the asphalt mix was "the most appropriate replacement”, although it was "not ideal".

He said objections from the Conservation Advisory Panel and Avon Gardens Trust were based on an incorrect belief that the path’s route would also be changing.

While the asphalt surface "will result in a greater degree of harm to the parkland", it would improve access, with the path being wide enough for cyclists, who would be able to go faster on it than on gravel, having enough space to avoid pedestrians, councillors were told.

By Adam Postans, Local Democracy Reporting Service

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April, 2021

34

n PARKIE COLUMN

Volunteers and pop-up cafe are back THIS past week has seen us taking tentative steps towards reintroducing our volunteer groups in the park! After a long absence we have welcomed a small team from GoodGym to the Old Bowling Green where we raked over the wildflower beds and sowed seeds which we hope will provide a great display throughout the summer.

The top half of the park doesn’t have much in the way of ‘wilderness’ so it’s good to introduce a selection of native wildflowers that is in contrast to the well mown and somewhat formal layout where nature is sometimes forgotten amongst the playground and sports facilities.

It is also a great opportunity for visitors who don’t get the chance to venture down through the woods and along the river path, to get a flavour of the beauty of wildflowers. ParkWork is stirring too, with sessions being planned around the park and at other locations across the city.

Friends of

EASTVILLE PARK

Henry the Heron next to the duck food at Eastville Park Lake The Community Impact Levy (CIL) 2021 round of grant applications is here and we’ve put forward a proposal for a project to make improvements to the Old Swimming Pool that will see it returned to that place where a few moments of rest, peace and solitude can make the difference between a good day and a not so good day. A good clean up

To advertise, contact Caroline on 07453 954261

(especially the graffiti on the walls) and some planting will bring the garden back to life and hopefully it will become again a place of beauty and well-used by visitors.

We are also in the process of applying for funds from the Grateful Society to install a selection of wheelchair-friendly park furniture at various locations.

This will include seating and picnic benches that will be appreciated by an increasing number of less able visitors we have seen over this last year.

As we move through the coming weeks and months, we hope to widen the volunteer opportunities around the park to try to get us back to the busy and fun-filled schedule that we’d become used to ‘back in the day’.

One of the most exciting things we are all looking forward to is the return of the Pop-Up Cafes in the Nissen Hut! It’s all pretty last-minute, but we’re hoping to be back on Saturday April 17, with a covid-friendly setting offering outside sit-down and take-away food and drink.

The café is an essential ingredient in our plans to bring life back to the hut alongside a programme of exciting activities for everyone around the Community Hub vision. The Bowling Club is back, too, with a good healthy membership roll and hopefully some good wins against visiting teams over the summer. There will be Community Bowling days, too, when the whole family can come along and spend an hour or two having a lot of fun! If the idea of a good healthy game of bowls takes your fancy please visit us on our FB page: Bowling at Eastville Park.

There remains a lot of uncertainty as we move into the

Email: sales@fishpondsvoice.co.uk

Future Parks process, but we are determined to fight tooth and nail to preserve the spirit of the park and do everything we can to show that, while we acknowledge the need for progress, we don’t lose sight of the idea that ‘for the community, by the community’ has real value and is a wonderful way of bringing people together for a common purpose.

We know how important it can be for people in difficult circumstances to get great benefit from being part of something, whether it be physical exercise, socialising and making friends or having an interest in activities that occupy them and get them out of the house. Helping others in even the smallest ways is the best medicine on earth and can turn people’s lives around. The Friends group wants to be part of that in any way we can and we’re so sure that there are a great many people in our local area who already are and those who want to play their part too. We’ll be growing our volunteer teams up slowly this year and there will be something for everyone so join with us when you can!

This last month, we started selling our bags of duck food at the lake on weekends. It has proved very popular and we’re regularly selling out, which is great news.

Over the Easter holiday, we’re going to be there every day of the week so pop along and help the birds- and our funds by supporting us. Children love to drop their coins in our volunteer collectors, Henry the Heron and Sophie the Swan – they’re proving to be a great attraction!

With Easter holidays just around the corner, we’re sure to see the park full of families and we hope that the weather is nice for you all during your visit to the park. One plea- please take your litter to a bin nearby or home with you and, if you walk a dog PLEASE don’t leave it there for someone to step on. Try as best you can to leave the park as you found it.

The Parkie

Got News? Call Linda On 0777 0700579

fishpondsvoice

April, 2021

35

n HOME CARE & FUNDING

Tom Jackson, Commercial Lead

We Care & Repair

With Spring on its way, now is the perfect time to think about roof repairs IF you are a homeowner, you will know that your roof is an integral part of keeping your home protected from the elements. A sound roof, guttering and fascia boarding will ensure your home stays dry, and prevent internal water damage to ceilings and walls. Spring is the perfect time to assess any damage that may have occurred over the winter and think about the repair needs and costings now the weather is dryer.

We know that regular roof and guttering maintenance is not at the top of anyone’s to-do list, but it is critical to ensuring your home remains dry and effectively shields the rain. If you’ve been putting off repairing your leaky roof or replacing structural roof damage, Lendology CIC and We Care Home Improvements may be able to help.

Funded by Bristol City Council, Lendology CIC support eligible homeowners with funding essential home repairs via the council’s subsidised loan scheme. As an additional incentive, Bristol City Council are currently offering suc-

cessful loan applicants up to £1,000 towards the cost of works.

Roof repairs and replacements can vary in cost depending on the complexity and size of the job, with the approximate cost of roof replacement being around £5,500.

If you’re successful in applying for a home improvement loan, Bristol City Council’s loan leverage grant will reduce the cost of works by £1,000*. There are a range of repayment types and terms, and our team of expert advisers will work with you to find a loan solution that suits your needs and means.

We Care Home Improve-

5 Hide Market, Waterloo Road, Bristol BS2 0BH 0300 323 0700 www.wecr.org.uk info@wecr.org.uk

ments, a local not-for-profit home improvement agency, are also able to support you to manage the entire project from start to finish from engaging contractors. This can be invaluable for people who are unsure where to find a suitable contractor and want support with the project.

For an informal chat about the loan scheme and eligibility, call Lendology on 01823 461099, email loans@lendology.org.uk or visit www.lendology.org.uk For more information on the services provided by We Care Home Improvements, call 0300 323 0700 or visit www.wecr.org.uk *Subject to eligibility. **A maximum reduction of £1,000 from an approved loan over £2,000. For loans £2,000 or less, the reduction will be 50% of the loan value.

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including £20 fee for registering the Title Restriction. Missing payments could affect your credit rating and ability to obtain credit in the future.

Loans are subject to status and are typically protected by a Title Restriction. This means that you may not be able to sell your home without our permission unless the loan is fully repaid. This is a financial promotion approved by Lendology CIC. Lendology CIC is a trading name of Wessex Resolutions C.I.C.: a community interest company limited by guarantee, registered in England, company number 4512225. Registered address: Heatherton Park Studios, Bradford on Tone, Taunton TA4 1EU. Wessex Resolutions C.I.C is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (675263) for credit regulated activities.

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If you are a homeowner, of any age, and need to make essential repairs to your home, call us today for more information. Works covered under the scheme include roof repair, electrical and plumbing work, damp and structural remedies, heating installations or replacement, amongst other works.

For an informal chat about the loan scheme and eligibility, call Lendology on 01823 461099, email loans@lendology.org.uk or visit www.lendology.org.uk

For more information on the services provided by We Care Home Improvements, call 0300 323 0700 or visit www.wecr.org.uk

*Subject to eligibility. **A maximum reduction of £1,000 from an approved loan over £2,000. For loans £2,000 or less, the reduction will be 50% of the loan value.

Budget is limited and will be awarded on a first come, first served basis. Typical Example (4% fixed interest rate, Typical 4.2% APR). Borrow £5,000 over 60 months. £92.08 monthly repayments. Total amount repayable = £5,544.96, including £20 fee for registering the Title Restriction. Missing payments could affect your credit rating and ability to obtain credit in the future. Loans are subject to status and are typically protected by a Title Restriction. This means that you may not be able to sell your home without our permission unless the loan is fully repaid. This is a financial promotion approved by Lendology CIC. Lendology CIC is a trading name of Wessex Resolutions C.I.C.: a community interest company limited by guarantee, registered in England, company number 4512225.

Registered address: Heatherton Park Studios, Bradford on Tone, Taunton TA4 1EU. Wessex Resolutions C.I.C is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (675263) for credit regulated activities.

To advertise, contact Caroline on 07453 954261

Email: sales@fishpondsvoice.co.uk

Got News? Call Linda On 0777 0700579

fishpondsvoice

36

April, 2021

n NEWS

Band needs new members to bounce back A COMMUNITY wind band based in Staple Hill is planning its return from lockdown and is calling for new members to swell its ranks.

Westerly Winds usually rehearses at the You Foundation in Page Road but, like other bands, has had to put its regular gettogethers on hold during the lockdowns of the past year.

Now the amateur musicians, who normally perform in venues across Bristol, including the SouthBank Centre in Southville, Kings Weston House and The Folk House in the city centre, are planning a return once restrictions are lifted under the government’s roadmap.

The group is aiming to resume full rehearsals from June 23 – and is on the lookout for new recruits to join.

Secretary Jo Lawrence said: “We're open to anyone over 18 who can play any wind instrument to grade four or five standard and are a friendly, sociable band.”

The band last held socially distanced rehearsals in October and November, but members have kept themselves busy while waiting to play together again.

Several of them decided to use the time to increase their musical knowledge, meeting online to complete the Grade 5 Theory

Members of Westerly Winds at one of the group’s last concerts before the lockdown

syllabus together, with some due to take the exam in May. Jo said: “It’s been a really enjoyable experience and a nice way to keep in touch with everyone over the last few weeks.”

Anyone who is interested in joining the band when they are able to resume rehearsals should email westerlywindssh@gmail.com.

For more information, visit www. westerlywindsstaplehill.com.

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fishpondsvoice

April, 2021

37

n ON THE TREATMENT TABLE

Gardening and getting ready for sport

I

SN’T it fantastic to see the sun peeping through now and again, the days becoming just a little longer and the birdsong sounding that much more tuneful?

I’m sure you’ll remember that we finally had an unusually warm weekend last month. Then, as sure as night follows day, the Cleve Chiropractic phone rang off the hook with patients who had hurt themselves in the garden, taking advantage of that lovely weather.

Who could blame them? The end of those, dark winter days is a cause for celebration every spring but, because of the pandemic, everyone seemed a bit keener to get outside.

Patients are always frustrated by long winters and look longingly into their gardens waiting for the time they can upgrade, fix or simply tidy their garden.

Whether its digging, weeding or trying to accomplish what a team of builders would take three weeks to do, we all tend to be a little too eager to help nature produce that annual transformation. For sure, gardening after a long winter’s rest will always keep us busy as

the cold weather abates.

Landscape your entire garden within a weekend? No problem!

But perhaps we need to be more cautious and aware of the damage we can do to our bodies by taking on too much, too soon.

Here are my top tips for making sure you adopt a safety first approach to avoid unnecessary injury when you venture out to tend your pride and joy: n Bend your knees when lifting to look after that back n Take regular breaks n Invest in a kneeling mat or sitting stool n Use the correct tools – for example, a garden hoe with a long handle n Use protective clothing where necessary n Do your potting on a work bench or garden table n Keep warm – not all these spring days will be quite so benign as that weekend last month n Make sure you get help from someone else with tasks like moving heavy pots Meanwhile, it’s great to see the route out of lockdown taking shape, with hopefully

more outside sports and leisure starting up very soon.

As with gardening, it’s so important to just gently ease your way back into things. Whenever you’ve had a long break, you must make sure you prepare well and build up gradually before returning to your favourite sport, or going back to the gym.

You need to take some time to get fit and supple again after such a long lay-off. Hopefully, you’ve been able to get in some stretching and exercise at home during lockdown – but don’t think you can start back in the gym just where you left off.

It won’t take you that long to get stronger again so please don't rush. Be happy to make steady progress by starting much more gently than you think you should.

Your first few sessions back should be easy ones – you’ll have plenty of time to catch up in a measured and sensible manner.

Whatever your chosen outdoor activity in the coming weeks, whether that’s in the garden or your favourite sporting environment, I wish you all the best. Let’s make sure we really

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

0117 957 5388

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

enjoy all that spring has to offer.

And remember, when you do need some help to get back on the straight and narrow, the dedicated team at Cleve Chiropractic are here for you.

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April, 2021

38

n NEWS

Jasmine leads way A DOWNEND Boxing Club member is being featured in a video by the sport’s national body thanks to her efforts to stay fit during the latest lockdown.

Jasmine Poole, 20, has defended her England Boxing Strava running challenge – a national competition to record the fastest time to run 3 kilometres – six times.

As a result, her lockdown training regime was featured in a film for England Boxing to inspire other boxers.

Other members of the club are continuing to work hard at home as they wait for guidance from England Boxing on a return to training and competition.

New Downend coaches Neil Richardson, Bailey Phillips, Jay Sanchez and Bradley Smith are waiting to resume training so they can start to play a valuable role at the club and for the community.

Indoor skate park set to open YOUNG skateboarders will have a new place to practice their skills when a youth club builds an indoor skate park.

The YOU Foundation has ordered a 20-piece modular park which can be arranged the way its users want. It will be set up over the next month inside the old assembly hall at its home, the former Staple Hill Primary School off Page Road, now known as the YouF Centre.

The young people at the club, which caters for 11 to 19-year-olds, will be able to help build the ramps and vote on how to arrange them for skate sessions once the indoor park is up and running.

YOU Foundation manager Rob Sharp says the idea for the project, which will be known as the Boarding School, came after the pandemic meant the centre had to close its indoor activities last year.

Youth workers were asked by the council and police to go to areas where children and teenagers were gathering and noticed how many of them had taken up skateboarding. Sporting body Skateboard GB estimates 70,000 people have taken up skateboarding nationwide in the last year.

Rob said: “It’s the perfect sport for a pandemic.

You can do it on your own and if you have a lot of time on your hands you can learn a new skill.”

You Foundation workers took a ramp and rails to Page Park last summer but the equipment could only be used in dry weather, which prompted the plan to build an indoor facility that could be used in

Rob Sharp at theYOuF centre in Staple Hill all weathers, once restrictions allow.

The £4,000 cost of the scheme is being met by a combination of grants and fundraising, and the charity also aims to raise money to provide coaches, plus skateboards and scooters for people who don’t have one of their own to use at the indoor park.

Rob plans to hold two or three skateboarding sessions per night for around 10 people at a time at the Boarding School, once restrictions allow.

Young people who want to find out more about the Boarding School should visit the website at theyoufoundation.org.

Fundraising and other enquiries can be made by email to staplehillyouth@hotmail.co.uk.

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