Fishponds Voice March 2020 by Fishponds Voice

fishpondsvoice March, 2020 — ISSUE 63

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It's time to play - at last! An appetite for helping others A new volunteer-run cafe at Barton Hill Rugby Club in Speedwell has raised £1,400 for charity in just a few weeks. PAGE 29

Children at Chester Park Infant School have a fantastic new play area. More pictures: Pages 2 and 3

It's power to the people Residents will will be able to choose how new homes in Hillfields, built by the community for the community, will look. PAGE 7

IT'S not only children who'll be jumping for joy this month as Fishponds gets a double dose of good news on the play front. Chester Park Infants have finally got a new play area after a long wait - while campaigners have been told that replacement of the outdated play equipment in Fishponds Park is going ahead after

an even more protracted delay. Work to remove the 1960s equipment is expected to start this month and it is hoped the £108,000 play area will open in May. Campaigners say it is long overdue and say Fishponds Park is the last in Bristol to be refurbished. Reports: Pages 2-5

Music festival gets green light An all-day tribute bands event known as the Bristol Fake Festival has been given the go-ahead for May 2 in Vassals Park. PAGE 17

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fishpondsvoice Publisher & Sales Caroline Galvin 07453 954261

Journalist Jayne Taylor 0788 0731148

Editor Linda Tanner 0777 0700579

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 April edition deadline is March 25. 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

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

March, 2020

n NEWS

School’s 'amazing' new playground proves a hit CHILDREN at Chester Park Infant School are celebrating being able to use an “amazing” new playground, after two years of planning and fundraising. The “play and outdoor learning zone” at the school on Lodge Causeway includes a sensory area, an adventure play castle, a trim trail, and a story telling hobbit hole. Known as The Park, it has been designed to give pupils physical exercise, creative play opportunities and help develop their language skills. It has been built on an area

which had housed temporary classrooms for almost 20 years, underneath which was an old air raid shelter, which had been declared unsafe and needed to be filled in. In remembrance of wartime sacrifices, a poppy made of pebbles painted by pupils has been installed in the playground. It took around two years to plan and secure funding for the new play area, with the Friends of Chester Park making a “significant” contribution. It was installed in three weeks leading up to the half-

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 Gary Brindle on 0117 907 8585 or news@fishpondsvoice.co.uk.

COMPLAINTS Despite our best efforts, we sometimes get things wrong. We always try to resolve issues informally at first but we also have a formal complaints procedure. If you have a complaint about anything in the 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.

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

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Fire shuts junction A BUSY motorway slip road was closed for 18 hours after a fire in the backyard of one of Bristol’s biggest supermarkets. The blaze at the Tesco Extra in Eastgate Road, Eastville, was spotted shortly after 9.30pm on Sunday February 23 and crews from three city fire stations were called in to tackle it. The store, which is usually open 24 hours a day, closes at 4pm on Sundays and firefighters had to use grinders to cut their way into the open storage area. After putting out the fire they used thermal imaging cameras locate hotspots. Police and Highways England were also called in and closed the exit slip road for the northbound M32, which is next to the

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scene of the fire and part of the Eastville flyover, to carry out a safety inspection of the structure. Traffic was diverted to the Hambrook junction until well into the afternoon. An Avon fire and Rescue service spokesperson said: “The cause is unknown and crews are returning for fire investigation.” A spokesman for Tesco said: “The fire brigade were called to our Bristol Eastville Extra last night after a colleague alerted them to a fire in the store’s back yard. “Thankfully there was no damage to the store and no-one was injured.” The store opened as usual the following morning.

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fishpondsvoice

March, 2020

The new storytelling hobbit hole

term holidays by specialist firm Pentagon Play. An opening ceremony was held to celebrate the completion of the project, with parents invited to join their children as they tried out the new equipment.

Head teacher Mike McNama with children on the new climbing frame The upgrade follows work by the city council to expand the school, to accommodate three forms in each year. Chester Park Federation head teacher Mike McNama said: “Seeing the children playing on this amazing equipment is

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Parents were invited to join their children at the opening ceremony

fantastic! “The school are delighted to be able to have such a wonderful facility for the community of learners at Chester Park Infant School. “Special thanks needs to go to The Friends of Chester Park,

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who have made a significant contribution to the play equipment – it is great that parents and carers can see that their fundraising has had such a positive impact on the children.”

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March, 2020

n NEWS

Mini-motos menace: After long delays and missed opportunities, police take action POLICE have seized a motorbike after reports that riders were driving them at speed in Vassals Park. The incident involved two small off-road bikes, known as mini motos, being ridden dangerously at the Oldbury Court Estate on a Sunday afternoon. A police spokesman said: “Officers attended and a number of witnesses approached them to report the vehicles driving at speed and too close to pedestrians. Two of the riders weren't wearing helmets but had their faces covered and one was carrying a child passenger. "As the officers entered the car park they saw three people riding on two bikes. The solo rider abandoned their bike and jumped onto the other one. All three made off on the one bike, which was lost to sight.” Police seized the abandoned bike and are calling on anyone with information about the riders to call them on 101 or online, quoting incident number 5220 032 905. One of those involved in the incident, which happened on February 9 at about 4.45pm, is described as white, in his late teens and wearing a dark tracksuit. Police urged anyone who sees a similar incident to call 999.

park revamp begins NEW play equipment will finally be installed in Fishponds Park – nearly five years after the project started. Friends of Fishponds Park, the driving force behind the venture, say the play area will be a huge improvement to the existing one, which dates back to the 1960s. But they have criticised Bristol City Council for the numerous delays which have seen the project officer in charge of the scheme change six times. Work to remove the old equipment is expected to start in March and it is hoped the play area will open in May. The Friends say they are disappointed that their original

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plans to install Bristol's first PiPA play area, which would have made play accessible to all children including those with disabilities, was scuppered by the authority two years ago. The Friends believed the park could become a destination park for parents and children in Bristol and beyond, with the added benefit of providing a welcome boost for the local economy. The park had met all the criteria – it was on a major bus route, near a car park and had toilet facilities. But in its 2018 budget the authority announced it was closing the the toilets, effectively cancelling all the hard work which had gone into the

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March, 2020

Fishponds Park - a modern playground will be installed at last project. Brian Smith, chairman of Friends of Fishponds Park, said: “It's been a long process. There were three designs and the one we now have isn't the one we actually wanted but we had to compromise. “PiPA is a national organisation which encourages parks to provide play equipment for children with special needs.

Fishponds Park ticked all the boxes required to become a PiPA park. I was completing the application form and then the council went and shut the toilets, and accessibility to toilets had been essential. We had the equipment priced up from a PiPA approved provider and it came in within budget. It would have been the only park like that in Bristol and we lost it. The next

nearest park like that is in Poole in Dorset. “All that work was completely wasted. It's been a nightmare.” Brian added: “When we started back in 2015 Fishponds Park was a priority park to be refurbished. The last piece of equipment was put in in the 1960s and at the moment it's not up to scratch. It's still the last park in Bristol to be refurbished.” The scheme will cost £108,000 which is made up of Section 106 and CIL (Community Infrastructure Levy) funding claimed from developers through the old Neighbourhood Partnership, community fundraising and a £1,000 donation from the Tesco Bags of Help initiative. Brian said there were further disappointment that the Friends were charged £9,000 by the council to move the old fence and put two new panels and a new gate in. The authority also charged them £11,000 for project managing the scheme. He said: “I said 'You're joking?!'. The £11,000 could

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buy us three more pieces of equipment.” Despite the drawn-out process Brian said the new equipment would still be an asset to families living in Fishponds and will include swings and cradle swings, multi-play unit with slide, ladder and climbing frame and springie for babies up to 11 years. “I have been told by the council they will start to remove the old equipment on March 1 and the installation of the new play area will start on April 21. Further delays will be unacceptable. Quite a lot of the Friends over the years have given up and drifted away but there's a core group of us who will not give up. We are going to get this park and it is going to be done this year. “It will be a marked improvement and will be a good, modern play area and everyone will be happy with it. That's a positive.” The project is expected to be complete by the middle of May. Bristol City Council has been approached for comment.

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March, 2020

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Learning festival comes to Nissen Hut FRIENDS of Eastville Park are taking part in Bristol's first Learning Festival with a range of talks and workshops aimed at sharing the joy of learning and encouraging people to try something new. The Friends have joined forces with the People’s

University of Fishponds to put together a programme of activities in and around the newlook Nissen Hut at the bowling green in the park. Each session will last between one and two hours. The events are part of a city wide initiative which will see

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more than 200 free learning activities taking place across the city for people of all ages and abilities. Andrew Gee, from the Friends, said: “We’re sure that our mixed bag of weird and wonderful talks and workshops will prove very popular so make sure you book early to ‘Listen in the Nissen’ and avoid disappointment. “All activities are free to attend. As well as having fun and learning something new, we’ll have a selection of refreshments available from our café.” To book a place, please ring 0117 965 2691 or email Katebn@ virginmedia.com Information and updates can be found on Friends of Eastville Park's Facebook page or at www. friendsofeastvillepark.org.uk Bristol Learning Festival is taking place from March 30 to April 5 at various venues across the city. Find out more and view the full festival programme at www.bristollearningcity.com/ Bristol. Friends of Eastville Park programme: March 30 10am All about bees with Alyson Hurst 2pm The art of origami workshop with Tony O’Hare March 31 2pm Garden of life. Urban gardening with Voice columnist Tim Barton April 1 10am Herb walk in the park. Medicinal plants and their uses

Stuart Sole and Pete Rowley from Folk Around Fishponds are leading a talk on pop legends Cook and Greenaway who were born in Fishponds and went on to write huge hit songs including The Fortunes' You've Got Your Troubles and Gene Pitney's smash Something’s Gotten Hold Of My Heart.

with Helen White . 2pm Basics of wildlife photography with Martin Tayler 6pm New light through an old hole. Pinhole photography with Justin Quinnell April 2 2pm Bring in the Spring Art Workshop with Imogen Robbins 7pm Gasology-Bristol Rovers with Jack Nicholson April 3 7pm Cooke & Greenaway, Fishpond’s pop legends, with Pete Rowley and Stuart Sole April 5 2pm Geo-caching in the park with Dave Williams

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March, 2020

n NEWS

Have a say on how homes will look PEOPLE living in Hillfields will be able to choose how new homes, built by the community for the community, will look. The Hillfields Family & Community Trust is inviting residents to an event where they can get involved and help shape the Hillfields Park Community Homes project. Ten homes will be built next to the Hillfields Community Hub, just off Thicket Avenue, and people are being invited to the hub on April 5 from 11am to 2pm to get involved. The event is open for everyone and there will be a bouncy castle, children’s games and refreshments and a free lunch for everyone who comes. Project manager Leah Eatwell said that, with the estate’s original housing marking its centenary this year, trust wanted people to tell them what kind of housing they would like to see built for the next 100 years. Leah said: “There is a housing crisis and climate emergency, there are a lot of local people and experts looking for solutions and examples of how to build affordable and sustainable homes. “We believe that engagement with the local community is key to the success of the project and we would like to welcome you to an event at the hub to choose the team of architects who will be designing the homes. “Appointing the design team is the first step in the

process of building homes in the community, so we are inviting everyone to come along to get involved, or simply to enjoy a free cup of tea or coffee a piece of cake and see what is going on at Hillfields Community Hub.” Leah, project director Jan Ross and a number of trustees will be there to talk through the plans and answer questions. There will be a live exhibition showcasing the three architects shortlisted to design the homes: Crier & Coe, Askew Cavanna and White Design. Each will have a stall to display their ideas. Leah said: “We are all keen to ensure that whatever houses are designed and built will meet the wishes and needs of the future residents and fit with the neighbourhood long into the future. “Everyone will have the opportunity to speak to each of the architect teams and then be invited to vote on which architect they would like appointed to design the new housing.” Hillfields Councillors and HF&CT trustees Craig Cheney and Anna Keen added: “We are thrilled to support this work and to see the project grow from the community. This piece of work will be created by and for Hillfields, so please join us and share your ideas on the fifth.” A free lunch will be served from 1-2pm. Free childcare will also be offered, if arranged in advance, to enable the event to be accessible to all.

Afterwards, each of the architects will be interviewed by a panel of local residents and members of the project team while residents’ votes are counted and a final decision on the designer will be made. The results of the vote will be posted on the Hillfields Family & Community Trust website www.

hillfields.community. The choice of architect will not be the last chance residents get to have their say - other community events will be held later in the year. Anyone with questions about the event or project should email Leah or Jan at local.homes@ hillfields.community.

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March, 2020

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Neglected dog was ‘screaming in pain’ DOG owners who left their pet to suffer instead of getting him help from a vet have been given suspended jail sentences. Staffordshire bull terrier Hugo was unable to stand and blind in one eye when family friends who offered to take him for a walk found him “screaming in pain”. He was taken to a vet but had to be put to sleep as he was so severely ill. The RSPCA brought an animal welfare prosecution against owners Luke Butler, aged 24, of Mayfield Park South in Fishponds, and Rebecca Whitlow, 19, of Speedwell Avenue in St George, along with Whitlow’s mother Claire Poore, 39. Bristol Magistrates’ Court heard the six-year-old Staffie was underweight, blind in one eye, unable to walk and riddled with fleas. Hugo was owned by Butler

Staffie Hugo was underweight, blind in one eye, unable to walk and riddled with fleas but lived with his partner Whitlow, at the home she shared with her mother. Friends of the family offered to take Hugo out for a walk last July, the court heard. Prosecuting for the RSPCA, Lindi Meyer said: “When Claire Poore brought out Hugo, he was

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screaming with pain. “He was barely walking, hopping along and dragging his back legs. His left eye was closed up completely and covered in a discharge, and his coat was clearly infested with fleas.” The friends told Poore that the dog needed urgent

treatment, and when neither she nor Whitlow said they would take him to a vet, they called the PDSA and rushed him to see one of the charity’s vets. But the court heard Hugo’s condition was so bad, the vet advised that he should be put to sleep. As the owners of the dog, Butler and Whitlow were told they were in a position of duty to act immediately on his condition. Both were handed ten-week prison sentences, suspended for a year, and told to carry out 300 hours of unpaid work at a hearing in January. There were also each ordered to pay £300 costs, a £122 victim surcharge and were banned from owning any animal for five years. Poore was ordered to carry out 100 hours of unpaid work, banned from keeping dogs for five years and ordered to pay £300 costs and a £90 victim surcharge.

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Gurt lush - is this the most Bristolian street name yet? CHEERS drive is a phrase Bristolians have been using for decades to thank bus and taxi drivers. But now the cheeky comment has been immortalised by becoming the name of a road on a new development in Speedwell. Cheers Drive came about after residents living near the new Whitewood Park estate off Brook Road were asked to put forward their suggestions for naming the streets which were being built. Other road names which have been adopted include Ron Stone Road, after the long-serving Labour councillor; Dening Gardens, named after Speedwell Pool architect Charles Dening; and Kenney Lane, after Annie Kenney, a Bristolian suffragette. Eastville councillor Mhairi Threlfall, who carried out the residents' poll, revealed the road signs on her Twitter account, prompting some humorous responses. “This is going to be one of the most sought after streets to live on. I dread to think what the house prices will be in a few years' time,” one person tweeted. “Cue some very confusing exchanges with minicab drivers,” said another. Photo: Cllr Mhairi Threlfall

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March, 2020

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Harry Potter comes to the Met A FISHPONDS school has been transformed into Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry to help promote the love of reading. Helen Harman, librarian at Bristol Metropolitan Academy, worked her magic to stage a themed event to celebrate Harry Potter Book Night. The library was decorated to resemble Hogwarts with Helen dressing as Professor McGonagall, the transfiguration teacher at Hogwarts. More than forty students of all ages dressed in Harry Potter themed costumes, making it a spellbinding experience for all involved. Divided into Hogwarts house teams, students took part in a range of activities, including a Harry Potter themed quiz with the event ending with homemade 'Snitch' cupcakes and orange juice. The event was just one in

a range of activities organised in the library throughout the academy year to promote and celebrate reading and literacy. Helen said: “It was a really

fun event that all students thoroughly enjoyed and really acted out their characters. It is really important that at events like these we celebrate the power

of reading. Research has shown that when children have access to books, they enjoy reading more and they read more frequently.”

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March, 2020

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Capturing our wild and wonderful city THESE images taken in and around Fishponds were entries in a city-wide photographic competition showcasing the best of Bristol's natural beauty. The photo of a kingfisher at Eastville Park was taken by Alec Taylor and the dog overlooking the city at Purdown was captured by Julian Low.

They were both entries in Wild Bristol: Winter run by Bristol Energy, a national gas and electricity company owned by Bristol City Council. The energy provider invited photographers of all ages and abilities to share their wintery snaps taken across the region during the month-long

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competition, which closed on February 23. They were encouraged to share their images on social media to celebrate Bristol's wildlife and green spaces. Weekly winners were awarded tickets to the Wildlife Photographer of the Year exhibition at the M Shed in

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Bristol. Bristol Energy managing director Marek Majewicz said the entries “highlight how we must work together to protect the planet, combat climate change and support our city’s wildlife and areas of nature”.

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March, 2020

n NEWS

Party in the Ponds is going large

THIS year's Party in the Ponds will move from Fishponds Park to another venue – because it's been so successful. Organisers say they didn't want to change the venue of the popular family-focused event but had no choice after visitor numbers rocketed year after year. A further reason is the planned arrival of play equipment in the park which will take over a bigger space when it's installed in April. The Party in the Ponds committee decided the nearest green space which could accommodate the event would be in the field next to the play area at Vassals Park so are now waiting for Bristol City Council to approve the move. The committee says it is unlikely the authority will turn down their request so are asking people to save the date - Saturday June 20, from 12-8pm. The proposal is to hold the same style of event but with more room to party, more food and drink choices, more children’s activities, a larger Market Street and more stalls showcasing local organisations and charities. Amanda Vinall, a member of the organising committee, said: “The fact that

Enjoying last year's Party in the Ponds we've had to move is very positive. We didn't want to because it was such a fantastic atmosphere but, in a public park, you can't limit numbers. “We could have charged people to come in to keep numbers down but the logistics of doing that were going to be horrendous, plus we wanted to keep it free. “The nearest place we could move it to with more space is Vassals. It now means

there will be twice as many stalls and we are trying to get twice as many food outlets. There were two bars last year but this year there will be three plus the Prosecco wagon is coming back. “There will be bigger things available like a helter skelter and, if all goes to plan, an inflatable bowling alley.” Amanda said the committee has already booked reggae singer DaFuchaman, a Jamaican-born singer who lives in Mangotsfield, who proved a massive hit last year. “He has an eight-piece band and they were superb. The audience loved them so they will be headlining this year. The rest of the entertainment has yet to be decided, it's something we're still working on.” Amanda said the committee is hoping to hear from the council soon. “There's a limited amount we can do before the council says yes. The likelihood of them saying no is remote as they have been very co-operative.” Anyone interested in running a stall should email vendors.partyintheponds@ gmail.com stating what type of products you sell.

What could you and your community make happen in your park? The way our parks will be managed is changing. It’s important that we understand what’s already happening and your contribution can help shape the future of our parks. Come and have a conversation about the Bristol Future Parks project and the opportunities to get involved in making your local green space better. Find details of your local community event at:

bristol.gov.uk/bfpevents

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March 2020 14

15 March, 2020

■ WILL & PROBATE ADVICE

Simpson Solicitors - keeping it local MOST of us value being able to shop locally and having a good range of shops. However, with banks closing and big brands closing local stores what is available locally is changing. Going against this trend is Simpson Solicitors. Run by husband and wife team of John and Michelle Baden-Daintree, they have invested in improving their local facilities in Kings Chase Shopping Centre in Kingswood to serve the surrounding area. John spells out why local is important to Simpsons “Everyone’s situation is different and so we think it is important that people can meet their legal advisor locally - face to face so all their questions are answered. With many legal companies now expecting clients to follow complex online form filling – we do not! Our focus is on making it easy for our clients. With local meetings about

Wills and Powers of Attorney with a fully regulated and trained legal advisor. I believe this is the best way to receive great quality legal advice.” As local shopping centres and high streets change, there is a move to create a better experience when shopping locally. So there are now more cafes and health and beauty treatment providers along-side traditional shops. Simpson Solicitors are part of this move to provide a better local experience. So instead of intimidating offices, they have gone for welcoming receptions that people feel able to pop into. They will be greeted and made to feel at ease by friendly staff whose mission it is to make everyone feel “Welcome, Wanted and Cared For”. If you have any worries or questions about Wills and related matters, Simpson Solicitors invite you to pop into their Kings Chase Shopping Centre offices with its ground floor meeting rooms.

As part of offering a better legal local experience, Simpsons do not charge anything for that first advice meeting. “We think it is important to understand each client’s particular situation, so that we can give them tailored advice. For that reason we do not charge for our first meeting. Also we do not set a time limit on the complimentary meeting. We will take as long as the client needs – without the fear of being charged by the minute and with no “hard sell”. Then if the client wishes to use our services we offer clear fixed prices.” Simpsons also make a point of supporting other local businesses too. Using local shops and businesses can make a big difference to the local economy and help make Kingswood a better place to live, work and visit. “Local independent businesses need to support each other – so we always try to use local companies and encourage our clients to use them too”, says Michelle.

Vincent Mulcock

of Simpson Solicitors, Kings Chase Shopping Centre, Kingswood

0117 960 8594

www.simpsonsolicitors.com vbm@simpsonslawuk.com Being part of the local community is also about supporting those who cannot make it to our offices. Therefore with us, there is no charge for our ‘Free Home Meeting’ service. So keep it local and either pop in or call your local Simpson Solicitors office on 0117 960 8594 to book your free advice meeting.

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BOOK YOUR FREE MEETING: Call 0117 960 8594 OR message@simpsonslawuk.com OR Michelle at Simpson Solicitors OR Kings Chase Shopping Centre offices in Kingswood (opposite Costa). If getting to us is difficult our FREE home visit service covers Bitton, Downend, Fishponds, Hanham, Kingswood, Oldland, St George, Staple Hill, Warmley, Willsbridge and surrounding areas.

Got News? CallCaroline 07540 383870 To advertise, contact on 07453 954261

Email: sales@fishpondsvoice.co.uk

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fishpondsvoice

March, 2020

n NEWS

‘Life-changing’ attack on cyclist POLICE say an attack on a cyclist on the Bristol and Bath Railway Path in Fishponds has had a “life-changing impact”. Detectives have issued descriptions of two suspects they want to question in connection with the incident. The victim, a man in his 30s, was cycling home from work near where the path crosses under Forest Road, in Hillfields, when two people blocked his path and demanded he hand over his belongings. An Avon and Somerset police spokesperson said: “He suffered a knife wound to both legs in the ensuing tussle, which has had a life-changing impact.” Afterwards the attackers fled empty-handed in the direction of Forest Road after the incident, which happened at 7.15pm on December 18. Police say the suspects were both white, approximately 5ft 7in tall, slim and in their late teens or early 20s. One is said to have worn a dark olive coat, with a white furry hood. His hood was up and he had a face mask on. He was wearing dark jeans. The second man is said to have been wearing similar clothing, although no further details were available. Patrols of the area have been increased since the incident in December. Anyone with information about what happened is asked to call 101 and quote reference 5219 291 413.

Olympian inspiration FORMER Olympian Vernon Samuels visited Fairfield High School as part of a project to address mental health issues. The international triple jumper shared his wisdom with Year 9 mental health ambassadors to help them go on to lead physical activities with their peers. The school is part of the Excalibur Academies Trust and Youth Sports Trust which are working together to offer tactics for students to help themselves and others. The aim of Vernon's visit, and the wider project, is to address wellbeing and mental health issues by increasing students’ self esteem and confidence. Jordan Goodchild, director of PE at Fairfield, said: “We are privileged and honoured to welcome such an influential and inspirational figure to Fairfield. “You can almost liken Vernon’s visit to the teaching a man to fish philosophy: by sharing his expertise, skills and wisdom with our mental health ambassadors to then lead activities with others, it will have a deep routed lasting impact.”

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fishpondsvoice

March, 2020

n NEWS

All-day festival in Vassals Park gets go-ahead AN all-day tribute bands festival at Vassals Park has been given the go-ahead. The Bristol Fake Festival will be held on May 2 in a giant marquee on the Oldbury Court Estate, after city councillors granted the event a premises licence for alcohol sales and music for one Saturday a year. It will feature tribute acts to rock and pop bands Queen, Kasabian, the Red Hot Chili Peppers, Pink, Duran Duran and The Police. The event’s organisers agreed conditions with police and the city council’s regulatory services before a licensing sub-committee hearing on February 10, including keeping noise below 65 decibels within one metre of surrounding homes. Members agreed with a police request to limit the licence to two years, so it would automatically stop if the event did not run smoothly.

Four neighbours initially objected, but councillors were told that three had withdrawn their complaints after talks with touring festival manager Lee Storey. Mr Storey said he had spoken to the other resident on the phone. “He was happy with what I said and wished us well with the event but he just wanted his

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concerns to remain on the table,” said Mr Storey. “We have been going 14 years and have held over 450 festivals, which are modern takes on village fetes. “We run 38 festivals a year, two every weekend in a marquee over the summer. “The ethos is to put on a great event in the heart of the community, where people come

down and meet friends. “All the marketing is done locally, rather than trying to attract people from other towns.” Mr Storey said most people attending would walk, travel on public transport or be dropped off, rather than use car parking, so traffic would not be an issue. He said the event would ban single-use plastic and that the site would be cleared up afterwards. Council licensing subcommittee chairman Afzal Shah said: “We are happy to grant a licence for two years. “You have reached out to residents and listened to their concerns.” The event is due to take place from 11.45am to 11pm and will have a capacity of 1,500 people. More information is available on the festival website. By Adam Postans, Local Democracy Reporting Service

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fishpondsvoice

March, 2020

n NEWS

£3m boost for Muller Road safety plans A SCHEME to reduce congestion on Muller Road, which includes chopping down more than 20 trees to make way for a new path, has been given more than £3 million in funding. The West of England Combined Authority has agreed to pay almost half of the project’s total cost after approving the city council proposals for new bus lanes and a shared path and cycleway. The trees that would be lost under the plan are at the roadside next to Fairfield High School’s playing fields, on a 1,742m2 strip of land which will be turned into a new cycleway and footpath. The city council says any trees lost to the scheme will be replaced according to the Bristol Tree Replacement Standard, with larger trees requiring up to seven trees to be planted to compensate for their loss. As reported in last month’s Voice, a consultation was ordered

because the land includes part of the playing fields. It was due to end on March 1 and, subject to Department for Education approval of the change of use, the entire project is expected to be completed in two years’ time. A council spokesperson said: “Making the strip of land available will mean we can make bus, walking and cycling improvements in the nearby area. The improvements will provide a safe route to the school for the children, as well as an

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improved route for all other users of Muller Road. There will also be a new bus lane opposite Fairfield High School near the Old Library, improving journeys for all bus users. “If permission is granted, there will be exactly the same amount of space for the existing tennis courts and other pitches – and as part of the proposal we will be resurfacing the tennis courts, which will improve their condition.” Voice readers were divided

over the plans in a discussion on our Facebook page, with one describing the loss of trees as a “disaster” due to their role in absorbing pollution, while another said if the move “makes the area safer for children walking to school, children cycling to school and cuts traffic, with the bus stop being in a layby rather than buses stopping in the road, it is a great idea”. Weca agreed to pay £3.3million towards the Muller Road scheme and a new footpath through the Stoke Park estate at the end of January. Bristol mayor Marvin Rees told a meeting of the authority’s ruling committee that the scheme would help stop Lockleaze from being “almost an isolated community”. Further statutory consultation will be carried out after detailed designs and technical approvals for the Muller Road scheme are finished next month.

Independent Day School for Boys and Girls

Friday 13th and Saturday 14th March, 11am - 3pm Join us for our show apartment launch event and enjoy a glass of sparkling wine and light refreshments. It’s a special opportunity to speak to our sales team and take a tour of the show apartment.

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BRISTOL STEINER SCHOOL Open Morning NEW RETIREMENT APARTMENTS FOR SALE New Pooles Lodge, Maywood Crescent, Fishponds. RSVP today to register your interest

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For more information or to book a place, contact Reception: 0117 933 9990 reception@bristolsteinerschool.org Redland Hill House, Redland, Bristol BS6 6UX

Email: sales@fishpondsvoice.co.uk

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fishpondsvoice

March, 2020

n FRIENDS OF EASTVILLE PARK

Kids - tell us what you'd like in the park ANYONE cooped up in the house during the recent storms knows the value of a good play area in the park. My own small boys have been running through the house playing ninjas, dragons, bears, and goodness knows what else their imagination invents, desperate to burn off some energy and use their bodies while storm Dennis howls wind, batters trees and lashes rain outside. I can’t wait to get them outside in their water proofs and back into the park for all our sanity! Study after study shows that the young develop both strong bodies and resilient minds when they spend time outside in nature, testing their confidence and practising risky-play by climbing at height, balancing, running, jumping, swinging and sliding. They meet other kids and practice their social skills, often with children they don’t often see at school or in their own neighbourhood. Play is truly the work of children. Sadly, as cars have taken over the streets, children

Friends of

EASTVILLE PARK are often left to play inside on technology. When they do get out, it’s either in small city gardens or parks, which has made these places extra special as an antidote to our anxiety-laden, hectic modern lives. Eastville Park play area has not had a lot of love since the mid-90s, when the previous batch of play equipment was installed. Now, with

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peeling paint and a lack of facilities for older children, the Friends of Eastville park are working with the council and local community to change that. The park was awarded £108,000 of Community Infrastructure Levy funds last year to complement £22,000 of match funding from a combination of project underspend and donations from the festival goers to Love Saves the Day and Tokyo World. Some of the funding has already been spent by installing replacement climbing equipment and a slide, but there is still work to do. Little children are well catered for, but bigger kids are still heading for Oldbury Court park, which is a fair trek from Eastville. We are gathering your suggestions to form the basis of the tendering process the council goes through to spend the funding. A description of what you want will go out to play companies who will bid their ideas. So let’s hear it from the kids! If you are aged between 8-16 (or know someone who is) then we

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want to hear from you. What would you like to see in Eastville Park? Tell us online (at surveymonkey. co.uk/r/KVSYBQJ), send a picture by email to friendsofeastvillepark@ gmail.com, ask your friends and message us, or post to our Facebook page (I know, Facebook is for oldies, but humour us on this occasion). We’ve had some feedback already: something big to climb on, a climbing wall, monkey bars, team swings, a Parkour-style trim trail, zip line and seating. Our committee team is bringing pictures into schools like Glenfrome and Fishponds Academy, youth clubs and putting them on social media. Please help us by sharing this article, talking about what options you like best and letting us know. Then we can be sure to spend wisely to get the best mix of play equipment for you! Sarah West Chair, Friends of Eastville Park

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Email: sales@fishpondsvoice.co.uk

Got News? Call Jayne On 0788 0731148

fishpondsvoice

March, 2020

n VET BLOG

Stress-free vet visit for your cat HERE at Kingswood Vets4Pets we have recently received Silver cat friendly practice status! This means we have taken steps to ensure that your cat's visit to us is as stress free as possible. How can we help to make your cat’s visit to us stress free? We have a separated area for cats to wait and a table to raise their carriers off the floor so they feel safer. We also offer extended 15 minute consults to allow cats to calm down and get used to their new surroundings. There is a separate cat ward away from noisy dogs, with comfortable bedding, places to hide, litter tray and food bowls. We have a range of different food and litter types available. During their stay here we try to minimise loud noises, strong smells and un-necessary handling for all of our feline patients. We often keep the lights in cat ward dimmed to help them to settle and cats are unable to see each other in cat ward as

Catherine Spence having a line of sight to another cat can be stressful for them. We have a wide range of diagnostic equipment, surgical instruments and medications, many of which are specifically aimed towards cats. All of our staff have had extra training on how to handle cats in a safe and calm way. This includes being able to read an unhappy kitty's body language. If you have any questions on how we do this, feel free to ask any of us! Any questions? Give us a call at

Kingswood Vets4Pets on 0117 961 6417, or pop in and visit!

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Email: sales@fishpondsvoice.co.uk

09/08/2019 13:10 Got News? Call Jayne On 0788 0731148

fishpondsvoice

March, 2020

n PETER'S VISION

New glasses to catch the eye

T’S quite a key part of being opticians, and something we never take for granted - the benefit to our patients of a new pair of glasses. Now there are many reasons you may wish to visit an optician, from needing an eye test for work to checking your vision meets the driving standard, but let's never forget that such an important part of our work is simply providing you with clearer vision.

MAXX GLASSES TO BE SEEN IN

I read an article recently entitled protecting your eyes from winter. I must say that this caught my eye. Tips included turning down your heating to prevent dry eye, which is may be OK for some, but I know this would be unpopular in my house! The advice to cut down on coffee to prevent dry eye was an interesting one as well. Now I’m not saying I totally disagree with this advice but perhaps if you’ve dry eye in the winter try drinking a little more water and even using artificial tear drops too.

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I’ve also read about the lower winter light levels making it harder for us to see indoors. This is quite sensible, and I’m sure many of us would just reach for the light switch and hey presto it’s light again! Seriously though, I think the point being made was that in dim light you’re more aware of the changes in vision you’ve maybe been putting off getting looked at. We all do it, just because we're human. Perhaps we also have at the back of our minds the cost of getting help, as well as the desire to keep our eyes young. Well, we can help here! Our exciting new glasses collection

called Maxx give you the on trend look we all want as well as a price to keep your wallets to happy too. Whether you need help to see far, close or far and close, with our custom design lenses it’s only you who will know that your glasses aren’t just to make you look smarter. If you choose glasses from the new Maxx range you’ll get lighter lenses and anti-glare coating all included. You and your family are most welcome to come and see us for your eye care and on-trend new Maxx glasses. We’d like to check you can see clearly and have healthy eyes too. To book an extended eye exam or frame style consultation for yourself or those you love, please call 0117 962 2474 or 0117 965 4434. Appointments can also be booked via our website, or just pop in to our practices in Henleaze or Fishponds and say Hi! We look forward to seeing you soon!

Peter

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

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

To advertise, contact Caroline on 07453 954261

Email: sales@fishpondsvoice.co.uk

Got News? Call Linda On 0777 0700579

fishpondsvoice

March, 2020

n NEWS

Praise for club’s children and staff

AN out of school club in Fishponds has been praised for its well-behaved children and “friendly, approachable” staff. The club at Chester Park Junior School is run by Oldbury Court Out of School Clubs, which runs several in the area. An inspector from Ofsted visited the club in January and its report praised relations between staff and children, and with the junior and infant schools the children attend. It was the education watchdog’s first visit to the club, which was set up in August 2017 and provides care after school for 61 children aged 4 to 11. It has space for 32 children each session, which lasts from 3pm to 6pm on school days. In addition to providing afterschool care during term time, there is also a holiday club held at another venue. Inspector Dominique Allotey said: “Parents are extremely complimentary about the care

Quarry Court

their children receive. They report that staff are 'friendly, approachable and know their children very well'. Parents comment that the club is a fun and safe place for their children to be.” The inspector praised the club’s safety and safeguarding arrangements, saying: “Children's safety is paramount. Staff and leaders meticulously plan and risk assess for routines

to ensure they have taken all the possible steps to minimise the risk to children.” Ms Allotey also praised children’s behaviour, saying they enjoyed playing with youngsters of other ages and staff, who had “positive interactions” with them. She added: “Behaviour is good, children are clear about the rules and they stay within the boundaries staff have set for them. Staff model social skills

Adelaide Place, Fishponds, Bristol BS16 2FX

well and this helps children in their interactions with one another.” Ofsted has recently changed the way it rates out of school and holiday clubs, and no longer uses the same grades it gives to schools and preschools, such as outstanding and good. Instead the regulator now only says whether clubs meet its requirements and recommends any action needed to improve further. By saying the club met its standards with no actions needed, Ofsted gave it the highest grade an inspector can award. The manager of the Chester Park club, Susan Yapp, said: “Oldbury Court Out of School Clubs pride themselves in providing high quality childcare, and it is very rewarding to have achieved such a glowing Ofsted report, which highlights and recognises all the hard work we do as a staff team at Chester Park.”

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Y DL

RIEN -F

Zehra, CEO of Dhek Bhal. Age 64. www.agefriendlybristol.org.uk

AGE

I have a lot to contribute, all this vast experience to share. STO

fishpondsvoice

March, 2020

n AGE PROUD BRISTOL

‘Every day counts’

EOPLE seem to dread getting older, despite evidence that shows we tend to become happier at this stage of life. This comes from a variety of studies looking at the ‘U-Shaped Curve of Happiness’, which found that self-reported happiness levels are often highest in early childhood and later life. As a part of the Age Proud Bristol campaign, which challenges negative perceptions of older people, Bristol Ageing Better (BAB) spoke to Joyce Montague (62), Coordinator of the Malcolm X Elders Group and Colin O’Brien (71), Chairperson of Gaywest, about their experiences. Joyce came to Bristol in 1971 and worked all her adult life as a nurse supporting people with learning difficulties. Due to health conditions, Joyce had to retire early and she made the decision to have her left leg amputated below the knee. But Joyce didn’t let the operation hold her back. Joyce is out and about most days of the week. “I love talking,

meeting people and having a good laugh, it makes my day. You have to make the most of every day as you see. I enjoy my life. Every day, every year counts.” For Joyce, getting older is a celebration. Her mother died young and so every year Joyce experiences, she is grateful for. Colin came out as a gay man in his 60s. He fell in love with his now husband, and together they run a social group for LGBT+ people. Colin said: “It depends on your circumstances, but for me, getting older has meant I’m a little more well off, I’ve got the time and the money to pursue my hobbies.” Every person’s experience will be different but BAB hope that following this series of articles, readers will challenge more of the negative stereotypes about age.

This is the third article in a series of three, inspired by older people based in Bristol. Find out more about the Age Proud Bristol campaign by visiting www. agefriendlybristol.org.uk or search #AgeProudBristol on Twitter and take part in the conversation about ageism.

n NEWS

Caring for environment CHILDREN and parents from an Eastville primary school have been putting their beliefs into action by helping to clean up their local environment. Last year Glenfrome Primary School was one of many around the city to take part in protests as part of the Global Climate Strike, staging a procession at the school site in Cottisford Road. In February children from the school and their families were joined by residents and Green Party volunteers to pick litter from nearby Purdown. School eco rep Sophie Bonner said around 20 people altogether took part in the clean-up, collecting 10 bags full of rubbish. Sophie said: “It was only a small space but we got a lot of waste.” The school is planning another litter pick this month.

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March, 2020

n THOUGHT FOR THE MONTH

Storms in our lives

S we look back over the last few months, there have been many storms in the UK, so much rain and very strong winds. For some of us it hasn’t been too bad but for others it has been devastating, with flooding and loss of homes, lots of damage to property and trees etc. I am sure we can’t wait to see spring, some sun, sprung flowers popping up, trees starting to produce green shoots and lambs jumping in the fields. All around us we can have weather systems that come and go however we can also have storms in our own lives. These storms can be illness, crisis situations and lots of emotional upheaval. How do we handle these

storms? One Friday morning last August, my husband awoke to very bad chest pain. I rang an ambulance and within a hour he was having an operation to put a stent in a collapsed artery, it was surreal. The Consultant said it was a life and death situation. My husband survived the operation however it was then his journey back to health. These storms can come very very quickly, one minute all is ok, then the next … For my husband and me we were able to pray in this situation, as bible believing Christians, we have a wealth of promises to us written in the Bible. Jesus said he would give us peace (John 15). We also have

the promise of eternal life (John 3v16) so even if my husband had died, he had the hope of eternal life, what a promise! There will always be storms in our lives, it’s how we handle them. I have been a Christian 35 years now and Jesus has always been my guide, my help and my comfort. There is a story in the Bible (Matthew 8) where the disciples were in a boat with Jesus, he fell asleep but a furious storm came over the lake they were on, they thought they were going to drown so they woke Jesus up and he calmed the sea and saved them. This is what Jesus does in our lives, he wants to do that in yours too by bringing peace instead of fear, hope instead of feeling hopeless

Anne Davies Hillfields Park Baptist Church

and strength and comfort. I can thoroughly recommend him to you. If you would like to know more about Jesus and the Christian faith there are lots of churches in the area who would warmly welcome you.

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March, 2020

n ADVERTISING FEATURE

n NEWS

Five ways to reduce your food waste

4,500 cyclists a day use path in summer - some at 40mph!

WE are the Wattens and run nomwholefoods.co.uk from our home in Fishponds. We’ve recently become aware of food waste, and how much of a problem to the planet it has become. Wasting food is a waste of money, resources and has a large carbon footprint attached to it. These are some of the changes we have made to reduce how much food ends up in our brown bin. 1. Eating our crusts – Bread can often go mouldy before we get to the end of the loaf so we freeze slices to take out as needed. Yes, including the crusts! Tip - place them in a single layer on a baking tray first to prevent them sticking together. 2. Meal planning – It takes time and effort but it’s so worth planning the whole week in advance. We make sure to include anything left in the fridge and make a list of exactly what we need. This way, we only buy what we need, reducing waste and spending less money. 3. Ignore Best Before dates - A BB date is not an indication that the food is off. We will use our senses to decide if we should still eat the product after that date. 4. Using more of the vegetable – We do our best to use as much of each veg. as possible. E.g. Broccoli stalks taste fine, they just take a bit longer to cook than the florets. 5. Using refill shops – Buying from a refill shop not only reduces our plastic use but also means we only buy what we need or can afford. Most of the products at Nom are available in three different sizes of non-plastic container so you can choose what you want at the time.

A SURVEY has provided a snapshot of how the Bristol and Bath Railway path is used. Transport charity Sustrans carried out the survey using video cameras to record pedestrian and cyclist movements on the path at one of its busiest points, near Whitehall Primary School. It was carried out on weekdays and weekends in the summer and winter of 2018 and 2019. Data from the survey has been presented to people using the Bristol & Bath Railway Path – OnePath Facebook group after work to turn it into graphs and tables by data analyst Adam Reynolds, who was asked to study it by Sustrans south area director James Cleeton. The survey found that the majority of users of the path at Whitehall were cyclists on weekdays and weekends, regardless of the time of year, but that the proportions varied from more than 88% cyclists on weekdays in winter to 66.6% on a winter weekend. It also found that average speeds of cyclists varied between weekdays and weekends, with weekday commuters faster, but ranged between 12 and 14.2mph. However the cameras also recorded a sizeable number of cyclists travelling at more than 20mph, particularly on weekdays, with a very small number travelling at more than 30mph and even, in one or two cases, more than 40mph. The number of cyclists using the path on summer weekdays was around 4,500, falling to around 3,250 in the winter, with

pedestrians numbering just over 820 in the summer, falling to around 440 in the winter. At weekends, daily use by cyclists was around 2,200 in summer and 800 in winter, while for pedestrians it was around 800 in summer and 600 in winter. Weekday use by pedestrians peaked at school opening and closing times, while cycling peaked just after 8am and 5pm. At weekends cycling peaked around 11am and 3pm, while pedestrian numbers were spread more evenly, with several peaks. Sustrans is currently carrying out a £1.1 million scheme to improve the path on its busiest stretch as it passes through Whitehall, Easton and Lawrence Hill, with new designs for some of the busiest sections. Mr Cleeton said the data “highlights the peaks in use at commuting and school run times, and confirms that there are some people who travel along the path at particularly high speeds”. He added: “The volume data confirms the path’s popularity, particularly amongst people riding bikes. However it is only a picture of use in a short section of the path at Whitehall and doesn’t reflect how we’ve heard it is used along its whole length. “It is also not representative of the people who want to or could use the path; many people have told us that they are put off walking on it because they don’t feel safe doing so.” For more on the survey visit the Bristol & Bath Railway Path – OnePath Facebook group.

Look behind green doors

YOU probably will have heard of Bristol Open Doors where the city's best buildings are thrown open to members of the public. But what about Bristol Green Doors? Bristol-based charity the Centre for Sustainable Energy is organising a weekend event on May 16-17 where people open their homes to share their environmentally friendly tips with visitors. www.bristolgreendoors.org/events

To advertise, contact Caroline on 07453 954261

Email: sales@fishpondsvoice.co.uk

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March, 2020

n NEWS

Serving good food for good causes A NEW volunteer-run cafe where every cuppa and meal sold raises money for charity is proving a big hit. More than £1,400 has been raised since the charity cafe at Barton Hill Rugby Club’s Speedwell ground opened at the beginning of February. People have been packing the cafe at the clubhouse in Duncombe Lane on Monday and Wednesday lunchtimes to enjoy the cooked meals, hot drinks, treats and company on offer. The volunteers are working to help two good causes – mental health charity Mind and a young girl who needs support for a physical disability. Rugby club social secretary Holly Hawker, her mum Nicola, aunt Mandy Bryant and fellow volunteers Elizabeth Harris and Nicola Goodall are the core of a team running the cafe. Holly said: “It’s all voluntary – every bit of profit we make is going straight to the two charities.” The cafe sets a fundraising target and works towards it, with three quarters of the money raised going to help a particular person in need. Once they reach the total they will set a new one and choose a new person to

Volunteers at the community cafe help. The other 25% of the money raised for every fundraising target will go to Mind. Its first target is £3,100 – of that, £2,300 will buy a specialist splinted Lycra suit, called a Second Skin, for Edie Browne, a young girl who lives near Bristol and has complex physical disabilities including scoliosis, a curvature of the spine. Holly says Mind is a cause close to the hearts of rugby club members. She said: “So many men have mental health issues and don’t talk about it. The RFU has been working with Mind and last year our club raised over £2,000 for Mind through social events.” On its first day the cafe raised £255 and

after the first six sessions, it had raised £1,428. Mandy said things are going so well that the cafe is applying for official charity status. She said: “We didn’t expect to raise so much. It’s lovely that people are getting behind it. We’ve been amazed by the support – it’s absolutely fantastic.” Holly said: “The response has been amazing. I’m so pleased at how many people have turned up to support it.” The cafe was originally going to run one day a week but expanded to two when the Bristol Community Friendship Club was unable to continue its Monday sessions at the club, which many of the charity cafe volunteers were already helping with. Building firm BAM Construction, which Mandy’s sister-in-law Lisa Hawker works for, has donated kitchen equipment for the cafe, while Tesco and Greggs are donating food on an ongoing basis, with further help from the Co-op and Krispy Kreme. The cafe has also signed up to the FareShare scheme which redistributes surplus food from supermarkets and producers. The cafe is open from midday to 3pm every Monday and Wednesday, except bank holidays.

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March, 2020

n FROM OUR MP

Protecting Bristol’s music scene

IT’S the kind of sentence that invariably sounds like a slightly embarrassing cliché coming from a politician, but music has always been an incredibly important part of my life. And one of the things I love most about Bristol is its diverse music scene. I know that’s something I share with many of my constituents. Relative to its population, Bristol punches well above its weight in terms of musical talent. From Portishead to Roni Size to more recent products like IDLES, Bristol has a reputation as a hotbed of cultural talent. And one of the reasons for that is our wealth of independent venues, with time and space for new acts to show what they can do and build a following of fans. As a patron of the Music Venue Trust, I know all too well how venues like Thekla, the Exchange and the Fleece have come under threat from rapid development and its associated

issues. We’ve seen iconic spots like the Surrey Vaults close because of noise complaints from new-build luxury apartments. That's why I’m so proud to have been part of the successful campaign to have the “agent of change principle” written into the National Planning Framework, meaning that responsibility now lies with housing developers – and not existing music venues – to ensure residents are protected from outside noise through proper soundproofing. I was also glad that last month the Government finally heeded our call to reduce business rates for small and medium venues across the country, a move that the Music Venue Trust estimates will save each site an average of £7,500 a year, and release more than £1.7 million back into the grassroots live music sector. But there is still more to be done to protect Bristol’s iconic music scene. In recognition of

this, Bristol City Council – led by cabinet member for culture and St George councillor Nicola Beech – has pioneered an advisory panel with responsibility for protecting and developing Bristol’s night time economy. It's now just over a year since the panel was formed, and in early February representatives of various clubs and bars across the city came together with organisations such as Bristol Drugs Project and Save Bristol Nightlife to celebrate all that's been achieved so far. Our independent venues and wider night time economy aren’t just important for cultural reasons, they’re also an important source of jobs in Bristol and a way to attract visitors to our city and boost our economy. It’s more important than ever that we protect these unique spaces – and make sure they are accessible and welcoming for everyone. I’m confident that with the vision and support of Marvin Rees as our

Kerry McCarthy MP for Bristol East

writes for Fishponds Voice Mayor, and Bristol Council cabinet members like Nicola Beech, who truly understand the unique importance of Bristol’s music scene, there is a bright future for one of our city’s greatest assets.

n PLANNING MATTERS WITH CHRIS GOSLING

Battles galore over no man's land IT already seems like history itself, but the Oscars were handed out in early February – and hopes were high for the British film 1917. In the end this atmospheric, immersive film gained three of them, but don’t let that meagre return put you off – 1917 is still well worth seeing. After watching it, I was sidetracked by some parallels with the usual subject of this column. It reminded me firstly of the dread of, not going over the top to face likely death, but the time you meet someone on your first day in the job who expects you to have all the answers. This feeling must be common to starting most jobs. You don’t want to admit that it is your first day and the person facing you expects you to be experienced, when you have received nothing more than ‘basic training’. In my case that was four years of ‘basic’

training, but you soon learn the difference between theory and practice when you are pitched in to the real thing. Of course, if you survive those early encounters, the first thing that you learn is to keep your tin hat handy at all times. You soon learn when it is safe to put your head above the parapet but you also that if you never do it, it is difficult to achieve much. Another parallel between planning and the First World War how people try to exploit what they have. WWI was the first mechanised, industrial war. Both sides tried to resolve the stalemate of the Western Front first on land and then under and over it. When it comes to planning, development – particularly creating new houses – is similar. It can take place on land in the form of building or changes of use. It also covers what happens

under land – creating basements, engineering works and mining, for instance. The other way of exploiting assets is by building upwards, and this is likely to de-regulated in some form in the future. And in a parallel to the war at sea, in the last few years high house prices have driven some people to live on the water, in canal boats, with planning also covering things like marinas. While WWI was all about looking for an advantage over the enemy to take a chunk of no man’s land, usually temporarily, development is all about finding a way of getting the best use or value out of what you already own. The old adage about land value is that they are not making any more of it, and therefore it can only go up in price. On that basis, the next stage is looking up or down. One last parallel: ideally the

two opponents in the planning ‘war’ - the public and private sectors – can make sure that the whole experience is more like the Christmas football match in no man’ s land, rather than the descent into hell of the rest of the four years on the Western Front. That reminds me – where did I leave my hard hat? Chrisgoslingplanning@gmail.com

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March, 2020

n WHAT’S ON IN OUR AREA March 4 n 7pm Eastville Park Bowling Club AGM, Nissen Hut, Eastville Park, Park Avenue entrance. Saturday March 7 n Splash of Soul charity night, KES Club, Kingswood (formerly Kingswood RBL club). DJs will be spinning northern soul, Motown and 60s R 'n B tunes. £5 on the door. 7pm-12am. Saturday March 7 n Grand Bric-A-Brac Sale at St Mary's Church, Manor Road, Fishponds from 11am to 1.30pm. Lots of stalls including white elephant, books, and games, cakes and raffle. Tea, coffee and light refreshments available. For further details contact stmarysfishponds@ hotmail.co.uk Saturday March 7 n Jubilate is one of Gloucestershire’s leading Chamber choirs conducted by Ian Higginson. The choir are returning to perform a free lunchtime recital (lasting one hour) at 1.15pm at Clifton cathedral on Saturday 7 March. There will be a retiring collection in aid of the cathedral. The Recital is entitled ‘Voyage européen’ and will feature music suitable for all the family ranging from the 16th Century through to the present day. The concert will be conducted by Ian Higginson and accompanied by Neil Fortin and the programme includes works by: Bach, Deprez, Faure, Higginson, Mozart, Poulenc and others. Monday March 9 n Senior Film Club at Christ Church Hall, North Street, Downend. A social afternoon with a film, cake and company! Come along and join us on the 2nd Monday of the month: 9 March, 11th May at 2pm, £3 including refreshments. For more information call Home Instead Senior Care 0117 989 8210. Friday March 13 n ACTIVATE drop-in lunchtime concert, Fishponds Methodist Church, Guinea Lane, 1pm-2pm. Andy Treble, Songs from the 60s & 70s. Tea, coffee and biscuits available. Admission free. Retiring collection. Call 0117 965 4521 for more details. Saturday March 21 n St James Mangotsfield are holding a Breakfast Morning and Table Top Sale, 10 am to 1 pm. In St James Church Hall, Richmond Rd Saturday March 28 n Breakfast at Speedwell Methodist Church, 10am to 12 noon. Coffee and cake, a bacon roll or full breakfast (veggie option available) No need to hurry, and an

opportunity to ask for prayer. All welcome. Saturday March 28 n 9-12am Pop-Up Cafe, Nissen Hut, Eastville Park, Park Avenue entrance. Monday March 30 n 10am Listen in the Nissen. Lifelong Learning Festival. All about bees with Alyson Longhurst. Nissen Hut, Eastville Park, Park Avenue entrance. Monday March 30 n 2pm. Listen in the Nissen. The Art of Origami with Tony O'Hare. Nissen Hut, Eastville Park, Park Avenue entrance. Tuesday March 31 n 2pm . Listen in the Nissen. Garden of life- urban gardening with Tim Barton. Nissen Hut, Eastville Park, Park Avenue entrance.

REGULAR EVENTS Mondays

n Holistic Massage, St Ambrose Beehive Centre 9am n Tiny Tots, All Saints Community Hall 10:30am n Bereavement and Well-being support, St Ambrose Beehive Centre 11am n Computer Group, St Ambrose Beehive Centre 2pm n Table Tennis for over 55’s, St Ambrose Beehive Centre 2pm n Welcome Club for Retireds+, St Aidan’s Church Hall 2pm n Alzheimer's Society Singing for the Brain Mondays Fishponds 11 - 12.45 to book please phone 01179610693 sandra.corke@ alzheimers.org.uk n Zumba keep fit, Beechwood Club, Beechwood Road, Fishponds 9.30-10.30am For details call 0734 1813 559. n Pilates class. Fishponds Methodist Church Hall. 7.30 - 8.30 p.m. Booking essential. £39 for six sessions. All levels welcome. Contact Emily on 07974 252486; email: info@teachmepilates.co.uk or find me on facebook: Emily Osborne Pilates. n Bristol Community Café 11-2pm, pop along for a cuppa, bite to eat and make new friends, everyone welcome. Barton Hill Rugby Club, Dunscombe Lane, Speedwell BS15 1NR. Tel Gill for more details 0117 9025779 n Sequence dancing with Teresa, Beechwood Club, Beechwood Road 2pm. Tel 0117 965 0203 for details.

To advertise, contact Caroline on 07453 954261

n Ballroom tuition, Beechwood Club, Fishponds BS16 3TR. 3pm. Contact Teresa 0117 9650203 n Slimming World, Beechwood Club, Fishponds BS16 3TR. 6.309pm. Contact Ami 0746 2727 229 n Social badminton, Kingswood Leisure Centre 2-4 pm, intermediate level. n 4-4.45pm, introduction to exercise, All Saints Church, Grove Road, Fishponds, BS16 2BW. Also aimed at meeting people in the area. Run by Southmead Development Trust. First session free, £3.50 there after. Venue is wheelchair accessible and sessions are open to all. People can just turn up or contact Colette on 0117 950 3335 for more details. n 7-8pm, Zumba Dance for fitness with Lisa at Bristol Dance Company, Brook Road, Fishponds, BS16 3SQ. Tel 0117 965 6699. n 252 Beaver Scouts 6 - 7 Scout HQ, Stonechat Gardens call Sarah 0789 2852226 n Hatha Flow Yoga, gentle and nurturing. St Matthias (Former UWE Campus). Steiner Academy Bristol. 7.15 - 8.15 pm. All levels, ideal for beginners. Contact Yolanda 07982418847 or email at hola@ yogawithyolanda.me n Stapleton Afternoon Tea Memory Cafe for people living with dementia and their carers. First Monday of every month except Bank Holidays, 2.00 – 4.00 pm at Stapleton Church Hall, Park Road, BS16 1AZ. Tea and homemade cakes, activities and music. No charge but donations welcome. . Tel. 9518980 n Speedwell Community Café 12-3pm, pop along for a cuppa, bite to eat and make new friends, everyone welcome. Barton Hill Rugby Club, Duncombe Lane, Speedwell, BS15 1NU. Tel Gill for more details 0117 9025779 n Beginners Salsa Class. Begbrook Social Club, Frenchay Park Road, BS16 1HY. 8-9pm. www.salsadacapoloco.co.uk n Senior Film Club at Christ Church Hall, North Street, Downend. A social afternoon with a film, cake and company! Come along and join us on the 2nd Monday of the month: 11 November & 9 December at 2pm, £3 including refreshments. For more information call Home Instead Senior Care 0117 989 8210. n 3rd Monday of each month Coffee Morning Refreshments, a chat and games 10.30am-12noon Good News Church, Pendennis Road, Staple Hill 01179658455

Tuesdays

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n Bristol Blues Club. Live blues/ rock music at 9pm in the Downend Tavern. Local, national and international musicians. https://bristolbluesclub.wixsite. com/mysite n Nordic Walking Classes, Oldbury Court 9.30-10.30am. Email: bristolnordicwalking.co.uk to book your place n Fishponds Friendship and Exercise Group every Tuesday from 10-11.30am for gentle, elderly exercise at the Youth Hall Fishponds Baptist Church. Contact Janet on 0117 967 2041. n Morning Prayer, St John’s Church 9:15am n Foot Care Sessions, St Ambrose Beehive Centre 9:30am n Coffee and Craft Morning, St John’s Church 10am n Sing and Sign for babies / toddlers, All Saints Community Hall 10am n Level 1 Walking Group, St Ambrose Beehive Centre 10am n Music for Toddlers, St Mary’s Parish Rooms 10:30am n Lunch Club, St Ambrose Beehive Centre 12:30pm n Film Club for over 55’s, St Ambrose Beehive Centre 2pm n Pre-school Storytime/ Rhymetime, Fishponds Library 2.15-2.45pm n Eucharist with signing for the Deaf, Hillside Court, Batten Road, St George, Bristol, BS5 8NL 3pm n Messy Church, Fishponds CofE Academy 3:15pm n Woodcraft , All Saints Church Hall/Link 6pm n Evening Prayer, St Aidan’s Church 7pm n Evening Prayer, St Ambrose Church 7pm n Frenchay Parent and Toddler group, upstairs in the Frenchay Village Hall, 9.45-11.45am n Scouts (10-14 years), Fishponds Baptist Church Youth Hall. 7.309pm (Term Time only) Email: 151bristolscouts@gmail.com n Slimming World, Beechwood Club, Fishponds BS16 3TR. 9.30am to midday, Call Ami 0746 2727 229 n Diabetes UK, Beechwood Club,

Gentle Hatha Flow & Well Woman Yoga

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32 Fishponds BS16 3TR. 6.15-8.15pm. Meeting in small room. n Zumba, Beechwood Club, Fishponds BS16 3TR. 7-8pm. Contact Anna 0779 9180 437 n 8.15pm Fitness Yoga (beginners & improvers) at Beechwood Club. Your first class is free! To book call/text Nikki 07525 735500 or email nikki@urban-yoga.net n Staple Hill Probus Club meets on the first and third Tuesday of the month at Downend Cricket Club. 10.30am-12.45pm. Tea and coffee from 10am n Under 5s Make a Mess session Tuesdays and Thursdays at 10.15am £5 / £4 extra siblings. www.childrensscrapstore.co.uk / 0117 9143002 n New session for Under 5s has space for structured making, free play and exploration - 1.45-2.45pm every week £5 / £4 extra siblings www.childrensscrapstore.co.uk / 0117 9143002 n 10.15am, Under 5s Make A Mess session, Children's Scrapstore, Sevier Street, St Werburghs. £5 / £4 extra siblings, www. childrensscrapstore.co.uk / 0117 914 3002. n Monthly social meet up for disabled people at the Old Post Office pub, Fishponds Road. Open

and friendly group, meets second Tuesday of month 6-7.30pm. Part of WECIL's peer support community - www.wecil.co.uk. n Pilates classes at Bethesda Church, Staple Hill Six week blocks costing £45 Back Pain Specialist Instructor Multi-level classes at 6.15pm and 7.25pm Limited places, enrolment required www. feelgoodpilates.co.uk feelgoodfactor@live.co.uk Amanda 07815 886798 n Speedwell Community Café 11am-2pm, pop along for a cuppa, bite to eat and make new friends, everyone welcome. Barton Hill Rugby Club, Dunscombe Lane, Speedwell BS15 1NR. Tel Gill for more details 0117 9025779 n 69th St Joseph's Scout Group at St Joseph's Church Hall, Forest Road, Fishponds. Beavers 5pm-6pm, Cubs 6pm7.30pm, Scouts 7.30pm-8.30pm. Email stjosephscoutgroup@ hotmail.com for more details. n Willow Ladies Club Downend, meet the 2nd Tuesday of each month from 10am-11.30am at the Assembly Rooms, Salisbury Road, Downend. Guest speakers, outings,

new members welcome for ladies of any age. For further information please contact Pat Woodman on 0117 382 5363. n Folk Around Fishponds meets on the 2nd and 4th Tuesday of each month, upstairs at the Cross Hands, Fishponds at 8pm, entry £2. For more details visit www. folkaroundfishponds.org.uk n Pop-up Community Cafe The New Place, 119-121 Fishponds Rd. 1-4.30 pm. n Keep fit group: Hour of mixed exercise whilst jogging around Vassall's Park. No charge. Wintertime we hire a hall in Fishponds. Age 45 to 60, must be able to run a mile! 7pm in summer, 8.30pm when indoors. Give it a try! Call Chris on 0785 564 8218. n 5-7pm, sports activities for young people age 8-19, Meadowvale Community Centre, Speedwell. All welcome. For further information call Bev on 07810 506966. n Shared Reading group, Fishponds Library, 11am-12.30pm. Drop in to read and listen to a great story and poem and talk about it. Meet new people and hear a new story every week. Free, no pressure to read and no prep required. n Community bingo, Staple Hill Primary School, 6.45pm, eyes down 7.45. Call 0117 983 3750. Food and drink available.

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n 252 Cubs 6.45 - 8 Scout HQ, Stonechat Gardens call Graham 956 6996 n 7.30-8.30pm, Zumba Dance for fitness with Lisa at Bristol Dance Company, Brook Road, Fishponds, BS16 3SQ. Tel 0117 965 6699. n Songs for Little People, The Kingfisher Café 9.45pm £4 per little person, siblings £2. n Eucharist, St Ambrose Church 10am n Arts and Crafts, St Ambrose Beehive Centre 10:30am n Coffee Morning, St Ambrose Church 10:30am n Tai Chi, St Ambrose Beehive Centre 11am n Level 3 Walking Group, starting from St Ambrose Beehive Centre 1pm n Arts and Crafts, St Ambrose Beehive Centre 1:30pm n Punjabi Dance and Song, St Ambrose Beehive Centre 2pm n Support and Activity Group, St Ambrose Beehive Centre 2pm n Chair based exercise class, St Ambrose Beehive Centre 2pm n Ladies Circle, St Ambrose Beehive Centre 2:30pm n Wives Group, St John’s Church 2:30pm n Messy Church, Air Balloon Primary School, Hillside Rd, St George 3:30pm

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n Home Group, Location varies 6:30pm n Phoenix Art Club, Fishponds Methodist Church Hall, Guinea Lane, Fishponds 10am-noon. All mediums, all abilities. n Tai Chi for Health and Happiness: Wednesdays 9.30am to 10.45am at The Beechwood Club (BS16 3TP) and 7.45pm to 9.00pm at All Saint’s Church (BS16 2BW), also Thursdays 9.30am to 10.45am at All Saint’s Church – tel: 07938 240158, web: www.tchh.co.uk. n Dancing Tots, Beechwood Club, Beechwood Road 10-11am n Women’s Reading Group, Beechwood Club, 1.30-3 pm, fourth Wednesday of every month. Call Anne 0117 9041875 for information. n Keep fit class, Beechwood Club, Fishponds BS16 3TR. 7- 8pm. Contact Beryl 0117 9774534. n Cycle UK (CTC). For all cyclists from beginners to professionals, commuters to sports. Beechwood Club, Fishponds, BS16 3TR. 8-10PM winter months only (other months are rides, see http://www. cyclebristolctc.org.uk/) n Yoga, Beechwood Club, Beechwood Road, Fishponds 5.456.45pm. Call Nikki 0752 5735 500 n Flower Arranging practice classes, Downend Folk House, Lincombe Barn, Overndale Road 7.30 p.m, every 1st and 3rd Wednesday, September – May. All levels welcome. Call Isabel Cooke on 0117 9568504 n 10-1130am Oldland Common Friendship & Exercise Club meet weekly for gentle exercise at The Community Building (rear of Redfield Edge School), High Street, Oldland Common, BS30 9TL. Contact Spencer on 07825 155954 n Pilates classes. All Saints Church Hall 10.15 - 11.15 a.m. and 6.45 - 7.45 p.m. Booking essential. £39 for six sessions. All levels welcome. Contact Emily on 07974 252486; email: info@ teachmepilates.co.uk or find me on facebook: Emily Osborne Pilates. n Frenchay Probus Club meets on the first and third Wednesday every month in Frenchay Village Hall. 10 am to noon. Visitors welcome. www.frenchayprobusclub.com n Frenchay Folk Dance Club meets in Frenchay Village Hall on alternate Wednesdays at 7.45pm. Calling from Alan Davies and music by Mike Elsom. Dancers of

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March, 2020

n WHAT’S ON all abilities and experience are welcome. Information at www. frenchayfdc.co.uk or by emailing FFDCSecretary@outlook.com. n Coffee morning held on the first Wednesday of the month from 10.30 am - 12.00 pm at Fishponds Baptist Church and that all are welcome. n Phoenix Art Club, Fishponds Methodist Church Hall, Guinea Lane, Fishponds 10am to noon. All mediums, all abilities, all welcome. n Hatha Flow Yoga. St Matthias (Former UWE Campus). Steiner Academy Bristol. 7.00 - 8.00 pm. All levels welcome. Contact Yolanda 07982418847 or email at hola@ yogawithyolanda.me. n Carers Café at Kingfisher Café, Straits Parade, 2-3.30pm. 3rd Wednesday of each month. Contact Caroline 0117 958 9989 or carolinem@carerssupportcentre. org.uk n Hannah More Senior citizen "Fun and Entertainment" , Beechwood Club, Fishponds 2-4pm, fortnightly. Tel no 0117 965 0356 n Tai Chi for Health and Happiness: Wednesdays 9.30am to 10.45am at The Beechwood Club (BS16 3TP) and 7.45pm to 9.00pm at All Saint’s Church (BS16 2BW), also Thursdays 9.30am to 10.45am at All Saint’s Church – tel: 07938 240158, web: www.tchh.co.uk. n Gentle chair based exercise. With professional trainer. The New Place, 119-121 Fishponds Rd. 10.30-11.30 a.m. n October has been a fantastically busy month for Phoenix Art Club, Fishponds. We have had a successful educational and entertaining acrylics and glazes demonstration by Vincent Brown of a Bob Marley portrait. Also we have recently put on an Affordable Art Exhibition at Chipping Sodbury, StLawrence Church Hall, which was very popular and where we sold lots of work. The work covered

romantic landscapes, the urban environment, animal and bird studies and Terry Pritchett style scenarios, sinister, fascinating and detailed. No Tasteful nudes this year. We are looking forward to our exhibition in Iron Acton on May Day next year which coincides with lots of fun, Maypole and other dance, dog show, music and lots of stalls. A great day out. Not only is October, Halloween month, it is also the Big Draw Festival which encourages people to take up art projects for enjoyment and mental wellbeing. So Phoenix Art is contributing in a little way by its workshops, sessions and exhibitions. Christmas is round the corner and we have a lovely party with home entertainment and sometimes we go for a meal. The group are very friendly share tips with each other and encouragement. We let potential members try the club out for a week or so. So there is nothing to lose. Visit us between 10 and 12 on Wednesdays have a cuppa and a piece of cake. We have our own library for reference and often use of materials. n Cleeve Singers, Lincombe Barn 7.30 - 9.30 p.m. Singers required in all voice parts. No auditions and free trial rehearsals. PLUS Hear us on our Facebook page. Contact: 0117 9561881 or e-mail cleevesingers@gmail.com. n Socialise with Exercise Club Form new Friendships whilst getting a weekly dose of Exercise @ The New Place 119-121, Fishponds Rd , Wednesdays 10:30-12:00 Improve your strength, balance, posture, flexibility & mental Wellbeing. Followed by a chat over Tea and Biscuits. Enquires Call Ellys: 07805 086738, Swans830219@ gmail.com 0117 952 0522

Thursdays

n Dance Fit with Cressida. Beechwood Club, Beechwood Rd.

FOOT HEALTH PRACTITIONER In-Clinic & Home Visits Available

Call Helen on 0774 565 4024 To advertise, contact Caroline on 07453 954261

Easy pace weekly exercise class with range of dance steps and music. 2pm-3pm plus tea and chat. Starting Sep 7. Ffi call 07808 581739. n Yoga class for beginners. Lincombe Barn, Overndale Rd, Downend. 6.30-8pm.Traditional yoga postures with focus on breathing and relaxation. Contact before: katarzyna48@hotmail.com or 0752 5937201. n 252 Scouts 6.30 - 8 Scout HQ, Stonechat Gardens call Graham 956 6996 n Morning Prayer - St Aidans Church 9:15am n Body toning/conditioning , Beechwood Club 9.30-10.30am. Call Sabrina 0794 1353 735 n Coffee and Craft Morning , St Aidan’s Church 10am n Free Beginners Computer Classes, St Ambrose Beehive Centre 10am n Eucharist, St John’s Church 10am n Eucharist, St Mary’s Church 10am n Parent and Toddler Group, St Ambrose Beehive Centre 10am n Ballroom Dance Class, St Ambrose Beehive Centre 12pm n Exercises and Sing-a-long Activity Session, St Ambrose Beehive Centre 2pm n Fit Steps, St Ambrose Beehive Centre 2pm n Dance, Latin Rhythm, and Zumba gold, Beechwood Club 2-3pm. Call Cressida 0780 8587 39 n Knit & Natter, Fishponds Library 2-4 pm (fortnightly) n Frenchay Parent and Toddler group, upstairs in the Frenchay Village Hall, 9.45-11.45am n The Senior Citizen Friendship Club, Beechwood Club, Fishponds BS16 3TR 3.30-5pm. Call 0782 5155 954. Email: Spencer@sportingchange.biz n Come and try Taoist Tai Chi, a moving meditation to improve the health of our bodies and minds. We have classes in Fishponds and Kingswood - come and try your first class for free! Fishponds Methodist Church, Guinea Lane, BS16 2HB Thursdays 7-8.30 Kingswood Community Centre, High Street BS15 4AB Tuesdays 1012 or Wednesdays 7-8.30pm For more information see www. taoist.org or call Crispin on 07407175127 n Baby Bebop Mums, Beechwood Club, Beechwood Road, Fishponds 11am-1pm, babies up to one year. Call Ruth 0796 6032 414 n East Park Residents meetings are held on the first Thursday of every month at May Park School from 6-7pm. . Further information from Hazel Durn on 0117 9513868 or Tony Locke on 07919 173450

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n 7-9pm Kingswood Choir at United Church Kingswood, Regent Street, all abilities. Contact Patsy Holdsworth 01179078994 n 9.30am Fitness Yoga (beginners & improvers) at Beechwood Club. Your first class is free! To book call/text Nikki 07525 735500 or email nikki@urban-yoga.net n Fishponds Probus Club, Fishponds Club, Fishponds Road at 10 am. on the first and third. Thursdays in each month.For information, please telephone the Secretary, Malcolm Forbes, on 01179 836886. Vacancies available for retired professional/business gentlemen. Call Graham Hawkins 0117 956 1846. n Riff Raff Choir - The Cross Hands Pub. 7.30-9.30pm. Pop and rock, mixed choir. All voice parts taught by ear. Everyone welcome - no audition. Booking essential. FREE taster session at start of term. £80 for 10 week term. www. RiffRaffChoir.co.uk n 930-11am or 1115-1245pm Staple Hill Friendship & Exercise Club meet weekly for gentle exercise at Staple Hill Methodist Church (Hall), High Street, Staple Hill, BS16 5HQ. Contact Spencer on 07825 155954 n Fishponds and Downend Rotary Club. We meet at the Langley Arms on Guest Avenue and welcome visitors on the following Thursdays: 1st and 4th Thursday - Fellowship Meetings 19:00 for 19:15, 3rd Thursday - Speaker Meeting 19:00 for 19:30. Please email Contact@ FandDRotary.Club to make arrangements. n Kingswood Community Café 12-3pm, pop along for a cuppa, bite to eat and make new friends, everyone welcome. KVA, Kingswood Community Centre, High Street, BS15 4AB. Tel Gill for more details 0117 9025779 n From September 12, Gospel Generation Community Choir, 11am-12.15pm, House of Praise Church, Tudor Road, Easton. No membership fee, donations welcome. Contact Emma gospelgen@googlemail.com for more information. n 7-9.30pm, rehearsal evening with Bristol Male Voice Choir, St Andrew's Church, Filton, BS34 7PS, on the A38 near Filton roundabout. You will get a very warm welcome and can look forward to learning a very wide range of music with us; we provide learning tracks for practice and you do not need to read music to sing with us. You will eventually be able to sing in our regular concerts and travel with us to many different venues. Contact 07941 040472 for more

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n WHAT’S ON information. n 2.30pm – Friendship Club with speakers and entertainment @ Staple Hill Salvation Army, Broad Street, Bristol BS16 5LN, tel 0117 956 9733. n Thursday 2.30pm – ‘Friendship Club’ with speakers and entertainment @ Staple Hill Salvation Army, Broad Street, Bristol BS16 5LN )Tel: 0117 9569733) n Barn Bells are a friendly group of handbell ringers who meet 2-4pm at Downend Folk House, Lincombe Barn. Visitors are very welcome to meet us for a trial ring, especially those with some music reading ability. Please leave your name and number at the Barn Office 0117 956 2367 if interested.

Fridays

n Coffee Morning from 10.30am11.30am at Fishponds Methodist Church, Guinea Lane. Entrance through main church door. Greeting cards and preserves on sale in aid of charity. n Nordic Walking Classes, Oldbury Court 9.30-10.30am. Contact bristolnordicwalking.co.uk to book. n The Friday Playgroup, All Saints Community Hal 10-11.30 am in termtime. £2.50 + 50p per sibling; includes kids' snacks and drinks and tea and coffee. See the Facebook page or email fishpondsfridayplaygroup@gmail. com n Line Dancing, St Ambrose Beehive Centre 10:30am n Rhymetime for babies and toddlers, Hillfields Library 11.30amnoon n Senior Citizens Bingo Club with optional fish and chip lunch, St Ambrose Beehive Centre 12pm n The First Friday Film Club - All Saints Church Hall, 2pm n Taekwondo, St John’s Church Hall 5:30pm n Grove Road Youth Club, All Saints Community Hall 7pm

n Sensible keep fit to music for older ladies. Hillfields Park Baptist Church, Thicket Avenue, Fishponds 9am. Good company and a chat over coffee. Call 0117 9561231. n High density Zumba, Beechwood Club, Fishponds 6.157.15pm. Call Anna 0779 9180 437 n Zumba, Beechwood Club, Beechwood Road 9.30-10.30pm n Baby Bebop (Mums / Babies up to 1 year old) Beechwood Club, Fishponds BS16 3TR. 11am-1pm. Contact Ruth 0796 6032 414 n Alzheimer’s meetings Beechwood Club, Fishponds BS16 3TR. 2-4pm (2nd Friday in each month). Tel no. 0117 9756 441 n Coffee Morning, Speedwell Methodist Church, 10am-noon. Open to all. Friendly and caring. Lunch once a month. n Living After Loss, St Mary's Parish Rooms, back entrance of church, every other Friday, 11am-noon. Contact Lizzie on 0117 9650856 n Every second Friday of the month, 4-6 pm. Messy church with crafts, celebration and meal. Stapleton church hall, Park Road. Further details on Facebook or you can email youngpeople@ holytrinitystapleton.org.uk n In the Pink, Hillfields Park Baptist Church, Thicket Avenue, 9.00am. Make new friends and enjoy sensible exercise to music for older ladies, followed by refreshments. Tel. 0117 956 0615. n Activate Drop-in lunchtime concerts held every second Friday of the month, 1pm to 2pm at Fishponds Methodist Church, Guinea Lane. Variety of entertainers, tea and coffee available. Free entry – retiring collection. Contact 0117 965 4521 for more details. n OneFitMama Postnatal Exercise at the Beechwood Club, Fishponds every Friday. Mum & Toddler 11am, Mum & Baby 12pm. Pre-booking necessary. Free Trial for every new Mum. E: bristol@onefitmama.co.uk

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March, 2020

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Saturdays n Pilates class. All Saints Church Hall, Grove Road. 9.15 - 10.15 a.m. Drop-in class, no booking necessary. All levels welcome. £7 per class. Contact Emily on 07974 252486; email: info@ teachmepilates.co.uk or find me on facebook: Emily Osborne Pilates. n Diabetes group, Beechwood Club, Beechwood Road 2-4pm, 2nd Saturday, 2 monthly, September n Rehabilitation Pilates (Beginners), Lincombe Barn, Downend Folk House, in Britannia room. 9am. £7. Samantha 07736 309272, www.gentlefitness.co.uk n Life Universecity LC soul health and wellness education classes, 12.30 -2pm Fishponds Old Library, Fishponds Rd. Rolling Administration 1st Saturdays of the month (except Jul –Aug / Dec –Jan) For info or to register Tel: 07508390298/Email: life. universecity@gmail.com n Monthly Bric a Brac and Clothing Sale at Stapleton Baptist Church, Broom Hill, Stapleton. 1st Saturday of each month, 10am til 12pm. Refreshments available in the Hall.

Sundays n Morning Worship and children’s activities, Speedwell Methodist Church, 378 Speedwell Road. 10.30am n Morning Worship, New Place, Eastville Methodist Church, Fishponds Road. 10.45am. Holy Communion once a month. n Eucharist, All Saints Church 8am n Eucharist, St Mary’s Church 10am with Giggle Club in Parish Rooms n Eucharist, St Ambrose Church 10am n Eucharist or Lay-Led Service, St Michael’s Church 10am n Eucharist or Lay-Led Service, St Aidan’s Church 10:30am n Eucharist or Lay-Led Service, St John’s 10:30am n Eucharist or Lay-Led Service, All Saints Church 10.30am n All Sorts Youth Group, St Aidan’s Church hall 6pm(fortnightly) n Evensong , St Mary’s Church 6:30pm n Worship, Staple Hill Methodist Church 10.30am and 6pm. Creche is available for little ones and Sunday Club. Taize Worship second Sunday evening of month and communion first morning and evening of month. 0117 957 5221 n Fishponds Baptist Church

(opposite the Cross Hands pub) - 10.30am. Children and youth provision for all ages. 6.30pm every Sunday, apart from the 3rd Sunday in the month which is ‘Messy church’ at 4pm y.There is a songs of praise service on the 4th Sunday at 3pm. n Redemption Life, Beechwood Club, BS16 3TR 9.30am-1pm n Church Group, Beechwood Club, Fishponds BS16 3TR 1pm n ARC, Beechwood Club, BS16 3TR. 3.30-5.30pm or 7-9pm For bookings, call Terry King 0117 965 020, after 4pm. email: tk007h9736@blueyonder.co.uk n Morning Worship, Fishponds Methodist Church, 10.30am n R.F.I.Church Group, Beechwood Club, Beechwood Road, 1-3pm n Sisters fellowship international, Beechwood Club, Beechwood Road, Fishponds 4-6pm. n Weekly Meeting for Worship 10.30 - 11.30, With Children's Meeting 1st. and 3rd. Sundays, Frenchay Quaker Meeting House, Beckspool Road, BS16 1NT n Sunday 11am – ‘All Age Worship’ with Band, Songsters and children. Staple Hill Salvation Army, Broad Street, Bristol BS16 5LN (Tel:0117 9569733) n Shortwood Methodist Church worship, 2.45pm, all welcome n Morning Worship, Mangotsfield and Castle Green United Reformed Church, Cossham St, Mangotsfield10.30am n Christian worship and teaching Children’s creche and clubs 10.30-11.45am, Good News Church, Pendennis Road n Morning worship with Eastville Park Methodist Church The New Place, 119-121 Fishponds Rd. 10.45-11.45 a.m. n Sims Hill Shared Harvest volunteer day at Feed Bristol, off Frenchay Park Road near the metrobus interchange at Stoke Lane. Every third Sunday of the month, 10.30am to 3.30pm, except for December and August.

Women's section Royal British Legion We meet fortnightly (2pm) on Wednesdays at the Foundation Old School in Page Road opposite Page Hall, Staple Hill. To find out more call 0117 956 0805.

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Air ambulance support ROTARY members who raised money to help pay for the area’s air ambulance got to see where their donation is going when they visited the helicopter’s base. Great Western Air Ambulance Charity coordinator Joe Hughes and two members of the ambulance critical care team showed members of the Fishponds and Downend Rotary Club around the new air base at Almondsbury and gave a presentation about the charity’s work. The club has donated £1,000 raised from various fund-raising events last year to the charity and co-presidents Dave Baker and Phil Simon presented the money to Joe at the event. The GWAAC provides a team of critical care doctors and paramedics who provide complex specialist treatment at the scene, as well as flying casualties to hospital. The charity attends an average of five incidents per day and is funded entirely by donations. Organisations considering fundraising for GWAAC who would like to find out more about its work should contact joe.hughes@gwaac. com to arrange for a representative to visit.

World day of prayer FRENCHAY Parish Church will be among the thousands of churches throughout the world taking part in World Day of Prayer this month. The church will participate in a 36-hour wave of prayer on Friday March 6 that starts at dawn in Western Samoa and finishes at sunset in American Samoa on the same day. Each year women from a different country choose the songs and write the service. The words are then translated in more than 60 languages and 1,000 dialects. In return, the prayers of worshippers are focused on that country, which this year is Zimbabwe. The service at Frenchay will start at 10am.

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March, 2020

Accessible club helps young players enjoy football

A FOOTBALL club based at Frenchay is helping young players with physical, sensory or learning disabilities to enjoy playing the game. Rockleaze Rangers is one of the biggest grassroots clubs in Bristol, running junior teams from under-6 to under-18 and has five senior teams up to Gloucestershire County League level. Based at the University of the West of England Hillside Sports Ground in Frenchay since last season, the club is now hosting a weekly session for children aged 8-16 with disabilities, between 6.30pm and 7.30pm every Wednesday. Rockleaze Inclusive Coach Ian Louden said: “In the years before the move to Hillside, a number of the coaches recognised that some children struggled to cope in a 'mainstream' group for a number of different reasons. “The success of the move to Hillside and the fantastic facilities available there led the

Members of the Rockleaze Rangers group for children with physical, sensory or learning disabilities during a session at the University of the West of England Hillside Sports Ground in Frenchay club to look into the possibility of providing football opportunities for children who found it difficult to fit into the club's regular training groups. “With help from Jason Lee at the Gloucestershire Football Association and Kris Taverner / Ian Blundell at Bristol Bears

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Community Sport, Rockleaze took over responsibility for a small existing group for children with a physical, sensory or learning difficulty that was being run by Bristol Bears.” The group has a coaching team of two Rockleaze coaches plus two UWE students.

Ian said: “The sessions are about providing a fun and supportive social environment for the children and giving them a sense of 'belonging' within the club. The children in the group love the facilities (a 4G pitch and proper goals) and the sociability of the group.” The group currently has around 12 regular players, aged from around 10 to 15, mostly from North and East Bristol, although some come from as far away as Portishead to take part. The club has space and resources to grow the size of the group and provide more boys and girls with the chance to play and have fun. Any child from 8 to 16 years old with a physical, sensory or learning difficulty is welcome to come along to the Wednesday session. For more information, contact Ian Louden by email at inclusive@rockleazerangers. org.uk.

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Boxing girls lose to split decisions DOWNEND Boxing Club’s girls were on the wrong end of some split decisions despite some superb performances at an international tournament in Sweden. First up at the Golden Girl Championship, from January 31 to February 2, was 14-yearold Alexa Smith, against Thareya Pederson of team Norway. Alexa gave away a significant height deficit against the classy counterpunching Norwegian boxer. Despite a determined effort from Alexa, the experience and height of Pederson paid off with a points decision. Up next was Eloise Edwards, also 14, who met former National champion Lilly-May Underwood, of Kent. What followed was a superb exhibition of skill by both girls, exhibiting counter punching well above their experience level. After a nip-and-tuck affair, the Downend boxer dropped a 3-2 judges decision. There was further disappointment when Jodie Horton, 23, met Weston-super-Mare's

Hannah Windsor, despite both girls having travelled to Sweden to box Scandinavian opposition. The contest was exciting from the word go, with Hannah starting quickly and taking the first round, but the second and third saw the Weston girl fade and clean shots coupled with a strong finish seemed to have Jodie in front at the last bell. The judges didn't agree, however, and gave the contest to Hannah by a 3-2 split decision. A similar fate befell 16-year-old Morgan Baber, who met another Norwegian in Ingela Eikrem. Morgan went for the taller girl from first bell to last, scoring heavily at short range and pushing the Norwegian onto the back foot. At the end of the contest, everyone present was amazed to see Eikrem's hand raised, by 3-2 split decision. Team manager Jo Turner said: “The ladies conducted themselves superbly in all but one boxer’s first International outing. “The performances were mature, and they all boxed to orders from coach and

professional boxer Ben Demmery. “Things look very positive for the future.” A busy month saw the ladies join a representative team as Broad Plain and Downend played host to County Mayo's boxing team from Ireland. Downend boxers won six of their nine contests, with the results as follows (Downend boxers listed first): • Rocky Barney lost pts Thomas Richardson • Shaye Pinnell lost pts James Ivers • Eloise Edwards won pts Hope Gallagher • Alexa Smith won pts Leah Neary • Jay Holloway won pts Jason Butler • Morgan Baber won pts Leah McDonough • Jodie Horton lost pts Louise Walsh • Taylor Andrews won pts Mark Rattigan • Shiraz Amin won pts Mark Harding Head coach Craig Turner said: “I am really pleased with the guys' performances. Our thanks must go to the wonderful Mayo team coaches, and Dennis Stinchcombe MBE and his team at Broad Plain.”

Bristol City stars inspire next generation of female footballers YOUNG footballers in the Downend Flyers Girls Under-10 and 11 squads took inspiration from a surprise visit by two rising stars from the Bristol City Women squad. Ebony Salmon and Jess Woolley were waiting for them on the training pitch ready to take part in their weekly training session on a wet and windy Thursday evening. The evening was informal and started off with Ebony and Jess participating in a Q&A session for the 40 girls. They were asked questions including what it was like to be a female professional footballer which teams they supported. Both Ebony and Jess then joined in with the planned training session for the under 11 squads,

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that took part. One said afterwards: “I cant believe we’ve actually had Ebony and Jess come along to our training session. I want to be like them when I get older and play professional football”. As a girls’ football club it was great to host Ebony and Jess, who are inspirational young women and we look forward to seeing them on the pitch next week when Bristol City Women play against Everton at Ashton Gate. We have been lucky enough to have been given free tickets for the match by Bristol City Football Club and the Downend Flyers girls are ready to cheer them on. Tony Mooney chairman

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