Fishponds Voice October 2020

fishpondsvoice October, 2020 — ISSUE 67

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Rat-run road could shut Safety first for superheroes Even superheroes have to stay safe, so the annual Comic Con event at Chester Park school was carried out within Covid-secure guidelines.

PAGE 11

Call for action on bins hazard Bins outside food shops and restaurants in Eastville are a safety hazard, say residents.

PAGE 14

Mary Stevens (left) and other residents in Ridgeway Road, which could be closed to through traffic A BUSY road plagued by speeding traffic could be closed to through traffic – if residents agree.

People living on Ridgeway Road and surrounding streets are being asked to get involved in a project under the council's

Liveable Neighbourhoods scheme to make it safer.

One option would be to close the road, which runs between Fishponds Road and Lodge Causeway, to through traffic at the narrow bridge over the Bristol and Bath Railway Path.

A survey of residents is planned to find out the level of support for closing the road on a trial basis, and to look for alternative suggestions.

Two meetings to discuss Turn to Page 2

Factory makes it to history list A former box factory on Fishponds Trading Estate now used as a kart racing centre is one of the new entries on a list of Bristol's historic buildings.

PAGE 29

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fishpondsvoice Publisher & Sales Caroline Galvin 07453 954261

Journalist Ken MCormick 07715 770377

Editor Linda Tanner 0777 0700579

Follow us on Twitter @fishpondsvoice

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 November edition deadline is October 21.

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

Find us on Facebook www.facebook.com/fishpondsvoice

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

PUBLISHER’S NOTE Fishponds Voice is independent. We cannot take responsibility for content or accuracy of adverts, and it is advertisers’ responsibility to conform to all relevant legislation. We cannot vouch for any services offered. Opinions are not necessarily those of the editor. Fishponds Voice is distributed each month to local residents. If for some reason you do not get a copy, please get in touch or collect one from local pick-up points. Feedback is welcomed, call Caroline Galvin on 07453954261 or news@fishpondsvoice. co.uk.

October, 2020

n NEWS

Ridgeway Rd plan From Page 1 traffic issues on the street were held before lockdown and the latest ideas for moving ahead were unveiled at a video meeting for residents in September, held by the Ridgeway Positive Action Group.

The latest meeting was organised by group member Mary Stevens, who said: "In the context of the covid and climate emergencies it's never been more important to find ways to make it easier and safer for people to make short journeys on foot or by bike.

"Like many residents, I really worry about my child cycling on the road, especially over the bridge, where traffic comes very fast.

"There is a real opportunity now to trial solutions to deter the speeding through-traffic and HGVs, and create positive change.

"But of course it's really important we hear views from the whole neighbourhood, which is why it's important that as many people as possible respond to the survey."

The group's meeting, which was attended by 30 people, heard that there had been 44 recorded

collisions in Ridgeway Road over the past 15 years, five involving pedestrians and three of them serious.

A total of 629 speeding penalties had been handed out to drivers breaking the 20mph limit over three years, more than a third of which were for travelling at more than 30mph.

Pictures of large lorries, including a car transporter and articulated lorry picking their way through narrow sections of the street, were shown to the meeting, which heard more through traffic was being directed along it by sat-navs and traffic apps.

A previous scheme to place planters at the roadside had made some difference to perceptions of safety but with government financial backing for schemes available following the coronavirus lockdown, the city council was now planning a new wave of transport improvements to make it easier to walk and cycle, to help cut air pollution and support social distancing.

Bristol East MP Kerry McCarthy said residents should make the decision, adding: "It's really important to find something that works for everyone."

Planters were placed in the road

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.

A member of the

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

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October, 2020

A car transporter makes its way through a narrow part of Ridgeway Road Kerry said: "There's a fear among some people that if you stop the rat runs you are just displacing traffic elsewhere – we all know how busy roads like Fishponds Road are."

But she said that changes could also reduce overall traffic levels, by persuading people to walk or cycle instead.

Alex Stephenson, from Liveable Neighbourhoods, said the idea behind the change was "making sure residential streets were for the residents themselves and not for through traffic", creating "access-only neighbourhoods".

Alex said the downside of the scheme was that some car journeys took longer, but parking and access for disabled people should not be made harder.

He said similar closures in St Andrews had proved popular, and no residents were asking for them to be reversed.

Around a dozen roads connect to Ridgeway Road and its side streets, from cul de sacs to through roads. There are also trading estates leading on to both Ridgeway and Balaclava Road.

One resident said: "People use the side roads around Fishponds because Fishponds Road is so

3

awful in the morning.

"Pre-Covid you could be sat barely moving for 30 minutes at least, most days, before even reaching Eastville Park.

If something was done about Fishponds Road and the awful roundabout by Ikea, then maybe there wouldn't be so many using rat runs."

Ridgeway Road is divided between two council wards.

Eastville ward councillor Mhairi Threlfall, whose ward includes the Fishponds Road end, said any consultation needed to identify and consider the wider area, including nearby roads such as Stonebridge Park.

Hillfields councillor Craig Cheney, whose ward includes the Lodge Causeway end of the road, said that while there was a "strong feeling that something needs to change", residents he represented were worried they would be "cut off to satisfy people at the bottom end of the road".

Resident Ora Jacobs said it was important that any changes did not remove parking space, adding: "Car parking is already

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at a premium for residents, given new restrictions around Chester Park school, which are already causing issues."

Ora added that an improved pedestrian crossing at the junction of Ridgeway Road and Lodge Causeway, which had long been needed, could be included in the package.

Another Ridgway Road resident said it was important to find out whether the changes would create new rat runs on other roads, saying: "I wouldn't just want to push the issue onto Thingwall Park, for example.

"I would rather have happy neighbours than a quiet street."

A survey on the scheme is due to be sent to all residents of Ridgeway Road and adjoining streets this month.

An online version of the survey will also be available. For more information and updates email ridgeway.safe.streets@ gmail.com or join the Ridgeway Road Positive Action Group or Liveable Neighbourhoods for Eastville and Fishponds group on Facebook.

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4

n NEWS

' Rule of six' forces sale trail to cancel ORGANISERS of the Fishponds Sale Trail have had to cancel their October event due to changes in coronavirus restrictions.

The trail and farmers' market was due to take place on Saturday October 3, outside homes around the area and in the grounds of All Saints Church, in Grove Road, where stalls were due to be set up.

It was planned to follow up on the success of the July event, when more than 80 stalls were set up across Fishponds and £600 was raised for the Trussell Trust and Fishponds food bank.

But the change in coronavirus rules cutting the limit on social gatherings to six people caused the organisers to re-think their plans.

Nikki Watten, from organisers FishFest, said: "We thought long and hard about whether to continue but we decided that as the event is all about the community coming together, with the 'rule of 6' in place it would become a very different event.

"Neighbours and friends would be catching up outside their houses and at the church market. We didn’t want to dampen the enjoyment of the day."

The organisers hope the event can return in the spring, with March 13 the new prospective date.

www.fishpondsvoice.co.uk

October, 2020

What equipment would you like to see in the park?

CHILDREN and parents are being urged to say what new equipment they would like to see built in the play area at Eastville Park.

Around £130,000 is available to spend on anything from climbing frames and walls to trim trails, outdoor fitness equipment or new swings.

The money includes community infrastructure levy money paid by developers, and donations from the organisers of the Love Saves The Day and Tokyo World festivals.

A survey has been launched by the Friends of Eastville Park to find out what families would like to see, with parents encouraged to ask their children

before sending in a reply.

Friends group chair Sarah West says they particularly want feedback from children aged between eight and 16, many of whom are having to go to Oldbury Court because there is nothing to challenge them at Eastville.

New equipment could be installed in two places – at the site of the existing swings, and on the grass area between the existing play area and the multiuse games area.

The recently-installed climbing frame and slide, and the equipment in the sand pit, would not be changed.

Sarah said the new equipment should "make it challenging for

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October, 2020

5

n NEWS

Sarah West of the Friends of Eastville Park and son Arthur, 5, at the Eastville Park play area older kids but also accessible for kids who have varying degrees of disability".

She said: "The Eastville play park doesn’t have much challenge for older kids aged 8-16.

"The MUGA is great for ball games and now we need more in the play park – perhaps to provide risky play (big climbing frames), fitness challenges or the kind of fun that can be had on the zip line at Oldbury Court.

"We still have £108,000 in the council account from the CIL fund awarded last year, plus festival donations – we just need to know how to spend it!

"We need to gather feedback from children in the 8-16 age group to tell companies what to design. Companies can then

submit their design to the council, and the one that meets the most requirements for the budget will be built.

"If you have children aged 8-16, please push this article towards them and try to get some sort of response. A finger point, grunt, or if you’re really lucky, a conversation about what they would like to see built at the park.

"Then head online and enter the feedback to the handy survey link below.

"It’s three questions and should only take five minutes of your time.

"It will mean that we can finally spend the money, and in return give you at least five minutes peace to drink a cup of tea before more snack requests.

Some new equipment could be installed on the grassed area If you don’t want them to have all the fun, choose what you want!"

To fill in the survey visit www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/

KVSYBQJ online.

Fishponds Park opening date: Page 15 The Parkie: Page 19

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Got News? Call Linda On 0777 0700579

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October, 2020

n ADVERTISING FEATURE

Welcoming you to the Olive Tree A WELCOMING new restaurant serving authentic Mediterranean cuisine is now open in Fishponds Road.

The Olive Tree grill and mezze bar has a cosy, relaxing atmosphere and is family-friendly, with a children's menu and large garden.

The reasonably-priced menu has a wide selection of cold and hot mezzes, from hummus and stuffed vine leaves to grilled halloumi cheese, falafel, spicy sausage and calamari. Sharing platters are available.

Main courses include Mediterranean favourites such as chicken or lamb shish, lamb kleftico and moussaka, as well as chicken wings grilled salmon and sea bass, with vegetarian options available.

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fishpondsvoice

October, 2020

7

n NEWS

Pupils sent home after Covid-19 case confirmed CHILDREN in a year group at Bristol Brunel Academy were told to self-isolate at home for two weeks after a case of Covid-19 was confirmed.

Like others across the country, the 1,136-pupil secondary school in Speedwell Road has separated pupils into 'bubbles' to allow regular lessons to go ahead while minimising contact across the school.

Pupils in the school's Year 8 bubble were told to self-isolate after a pupil tested positive on September 16. Those who had not developed symptoms were due to return to school on Tuesday September 29.

In a statement after the case was confirmed, Cabot Learning Federation, which runs the school, said it was following national guidance.

While Year 8 pupils were told to stay at home for 14 days, all other year groups, including siblings of those in Year 8, were told they "should continue to attend school as normal".

"The academy has fully prepared for this situation and will now support Year 8 students to learn from home," the statement continued. "Each Year 8 student will be directly supported by their teachers across

the next two weeks to follow the curriculum and continue their learning.

"The Academy has rigorously enacted the control measures advised in the national guidance to keep everyone in the community safe and limit any potential spread."

Academy principal Jon Jones said: “I want to take this opportunity to thank everyone in our community for their support through this time.

"We have all pulled together to support our young people to access their education.

"We have more challenges ahead, and we will continue to work together in the best interests of all in our community.”

Bristol Brunel Academy is one of more than a dozen schools across Bristol which have had to tell year groups to self-isolate since the start of the autumn term in September.

Public Health England says that pupils and teaching staff who have come into close contact with an infected pupil should selfisolate at home for 14 days.

If they do not develop symptoms they can return to school after two weeks. Other members of their households will not have to self-isolate.

Other children in the bubble are being urged to book a test only if they develop one of the three most common Covid-19 symptoms: a new continuous cough, loss of smell or taste or a high temperature.

City council director of public health Christina Gray said: “Please be reassured that while this is disruptive for children at the affected schools, the number of cases is still a very small number compared to the thousands of children attending schools across the city."

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fishpondsvoice

8

n NEWS A FISHPONDS travel agent has closed, after the industry was plunged into crisis by the coronavirus.

The Tui store in Fishponds Road is one of 166 to be permanently closed by the German-owned company – almost a third of its UK retail network – after temporarily shutting at the start of the lockdown in March.

Tui, which is the world's biggest travel company, announced it was shutting stores at the end of July – but at the time it did not reveal which ones were being considered for closure.

By September the Fishponds store had been permanently closed, as had a store nearby in Downend.

Tui declined to say how many people were employed at each store or confirm the exact dates that they were permanently closed.

However the company has said it intends to create new roles for 70% of the 900 staff from affected stores nationwide

October, 2020

Tui shuts Fishponds branch in a new "homeworking sales and service team" and relocate some others to vacant roles in its remaining stores.

A spokesperson said: "We can confirm that we’ve made the very difficult decision to permanently close our Tui retail stores in Fishponds and Downend.

"We would like to thank our loyal customers for their support and our amazing retail advisors for all their hard work."

Tui said the move had been made "following a review of UK customer booking behaviours" and in the face of " the greatest crisis the travel industry has ever faced".

It is cutting 8,000 jobs globally to reduce its overheads by 30%.

Tui UK managing director Andrew Flintham said: “Customer behaviours have already changed in recent years, with 70% of all Tui UK bookings taking place online. We believe

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Covid-19 has only accelerated this change in purchasing habits, with people looking to buy online or wishing to speak with travel experts from the comfort of their own home.

Email: sales@fishpondsvoice.co.uk

"We have world class travel advisors at Tui, so we hope many of them will become homeworkers and continue to offer the personalised service we know our customers value.”

Got News? Call Jayne On 0788 0731148

fishpondsvoice

October, 2020

9

n NEWS

Tower block plans go in to council PLANS for a seven-storey block of flats at one of Fishponds' busiest junctions have been submitted to the city council.

Details of the plan to redevelop the site of the Newton Motors garage at the corner of Fishponds Road and Lodge Causeway were first revealed by the Voice two months ago, when agents LPC Trull and architects OXF held a consultation for neighbours.

Now a formal planning application has been made to the city council to build 46 flats at the site, along with a ground floor shop.

The application appears to be identical to the one shown to neighbours in July for 28 one-bedroom and 18 two-bedroom flats, although extra details have now been revealed among the 51 documents submitted as part of the plans.

They include a commitment to making 30% of the flats affordable, ie available for social rent or shared ownership schemes.

This would translate to 14 flats, with around 11 of those rented and some fully wheelchair accessible.

But the plans only provide for 16 car parking spaces for the 46 flats, an issue on which neighbours expressed concerns back in July.

A summary of the consultation shows more than 21 different areas of concern were raised by residents, including overdevelopment, the height of the building, insufficient parking, the effect of extra traffic at the Fishponds Road/Lodge Causeway junction through to possible effects on water pressure and TV signals in the surrounding area.

Responding to the parking issue, the agents said: "The proposed level of parking will encourage a shift towards more sustainable modes of transport given the accessible location of the site."

Pa rk way automobile engineering

The agents said a planned 128-space cycle hub represented double the required standard number of spaces, to encourage occupants to bike travel, particularly as the site is close to the Bristol and Bath Railway Path.

They continued: "It is considered that the level of parking provision is adequate when taking into consideration the site's accessible location, real opportunities for sustainable travel by walking, cycling and public transport and the Cycle Hub proposed to offset the level of car parking spaces proposed."

The planning application has been made

by Newton Motors, which currently occupies the site and has been trading in the city for more than 70 years.

Ahead of the consultation, neighbours living in nearby Ernestville Road raised concerns over parking and flats overlooking their homes.

The application has been published on the city council website and is open for comments.

To view and comment, search for application 20/04059/P at planningonline. bristol.gov.uk.

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October, 2020

n PETER'S VISION

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So autumn is here again, it remains one of my favorite seasons, and the time we get to press a few apples at home and pretend we can make decent cider! The thing that is definitely more popular in our house is the delicious apple crumble my wife Jo makes. This year she’s adding blueberries, which are one of the superfoods that if eaten regularly has been reported to help maintain good eye health, so our yummy puddings now look after our eye health and vision too!

In line with my generally positive viewpoint, I’ve decided that rather than worry about when we’re returning to what most of us would consider normal, I’m accepting our new routines. I think having our children in school and their activity clubs returning, albeit some remaining virtual for now, is giving the routine to our lives that has been missing since March.

The key focus for so much of my working life has been the routine eye exam. That is one thing that is yet to fully return.

I’ve quite enjoyed some (but clearly not all) of the challenges of the last few months. Our work was focussed around the needs of our patients for so much of lockdown, and please be reassured that our patient focussed care continues as it has for over 80 years. I’d never use the R word for my work though, usually interesting, fascinating maybe, but never routine!

It was interesting that aspects of our normally extensive range of eye care services were considered non essential, and effectively stopped for months. Some of our contact lens work was affected by this ruling. I’m sure many of you who regularly wear contact lenses may disagree with that view, but the powers that be set the rules and the rest of us get to follow (and perhaps occasionally work around) them! The return to almost normal contact lens work has been welcomed by many.

Certainly our younger patients

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keen to get going with contact lenses for the first time now can, and are enjoying clear and comfortable vision through their new lenses.

As always when you come and see us you can expect the usual high standards of personal service, professional expertise and hygiene excellence you’re used to, from your local independent opticians. You & your loved ones are most welcome to come and see us for your eye care and new glasses or contact lenses. We just ask that you telephone first to book a time to come in, to help us keep you all safe.

Whatever your eye care needs, whether routine or otherwise, our expert team is ready & waiting to help you! To book an extended eye exam, contact lens consultation or frame style visit for yourself or those you love, please call our Henleaze practice on 0117 962 2474 or our Fishponds practice on 0117 965 4434.

We look forward to seeing you soon!

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

Got News? Call Linda On 0777 0700579

fishpondsvoice

October, 2020

11

n NEWS

Chester Park pupils turn superheroes CHILDREN at Chester Park Federation schools revealed their superhero – or villain – identities to mark the end of their Comic Con event.

Pupils at the Fishponds infant and junior schools have all spent a week doing work related to comics, graphic novels and superheroes.

At the end of the week, on September 25, they dressed as heroes or villains from comics, science fiction and fantasy films for the schools' annual convention-style event.

As even superheroes need to stay safe, this year's activities were held within year groups in line with coronavirus regulations.

A Chester Park spokesperson said: "This focus has really supported children in improving the quality and quantity of writing, whilst settling back into school within their year group bubbles."

For more details of the event, visit the federation website at chesterparkschools.org.

Aspiration at Avanti Gardens

PUPILS at Avanti Gardens School are being visited by some of Bristol's most influential people to encourage them to set their sights high.

Mayor Marvin Rees, Bristol East MP Kerry McCarthy and Lord Lieutenant of Bristol

Peaches Golding were the first guests invited to the school in College Road as part of the Avanti Aspirations programme.

Principal Ashley Milum said: "The Aspirations programme consists of a monthly talk from an inspirational Bristolian from

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October, 2020

n FROM OUR MP

The Government must step up to protect people’s livelihoods PEOPLE across the country will have breathed a collective sigh of relief after, finally, hearing the Chancellor announce a replacement for the furlough scheme as it was about to draw to an end. This commitment has been a long time coming.

Anneliese Dodds, Labour’s Shadow Chancellor, had called for targeted wage support 40 times and had been rebuffed by the Government 20 times. It was incredibly unfair on people, many desperately worried about their future finances, for the Chancellor to leave it until the very last minute, presumably in the hope he’d be able to get away without doing anything.

I welcome this latest in a long series of U-turns from the Government, although some of the measures – for example, support for the self-employed – fall short of what is needed to help people survive this crisis.

We also should not forget that

three million people across the UK were excluded entirely from the original furlough and Selfemployment Income Support Scheme. They have had to rely on Universal Credit to get by, which is sometimes not even enough to cover the rent or mortgage, let alone pay all the bills.

Taxi drivers, carpenters, architects, accountants, musicians, and so many more, were all ineligible for the Government’s support schemes, for example, if they’d been selfemployed for less than a year, or were a director of small limited companies paid via dividends, or freelancers. Many of them work in sectors that have been the worst affected by Covid-19, such as the arts and creative industries, or the events industry, yet, even with the latest announcements, many of these people still won’t be able to access financial support.

Pleas to the Chancellor to help the excluded have been

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ignored. Since the start of the lockdown, I have sent 16 letters to the Chancellor on behalf of constituents who had missed out on the Government’s personal support schemes. If you include my correspondence on behalf of those businesses in Bristol East excluded from grants or loan schemes, I sent a total of 35 letters. Usually, when I write to a Minister, I receive a response directly from them, or a junior Minister speaking on their behalf. But now all that we get is a ‘cut and paste’ response from a civil servant in the Treasury’s correspondence team, based on the Government’s Frequently Asked Questions. This is no way to respond to MPs who are trying their hardest to get help for their constituents.

If it were not for the belated introduction of the targeted Job Support scheme, the 900,000 people still on furlough would have joined the three million

Kerry McCarthy MP for Bristol East

writes for Fishponds Voice excluded. I’m glad that they’ve been helped, but I will not forget the three million people this Government has let down. It’s not too late to get some form of financial support to these people, and I will continue to push for that.

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fishpondsvoice

October, 2020

13

n NEWS

Mayor's warning in Covid-19 battle BRISTOL is "experiencing a second wave” of coronavirus, Bristol's mayor has warned.

Marvin Rees urged people to follow the new government rules aimed at halting the spread of Covid-19, as the city was “precariously balanced” in terms of the virus.

Speaking during a Facebook Live broadcast, Mr Rees said there would be a general shift “more towards enforcement” and that he did not want individuals or businesses to have to pay the new fines of up to £10,000 that could be imposed for breaching new rules on socialising, wearing face coverings in public places and self-isolation.

Figures from the Office for National Statistics showed that in the week to September 23 - the day the mayor spoke - there had been three new positive tests for Covid-19 in the Fishponds North area, four in Stapleton and three in Frenchay and Great Stoke. No cases had been reported in the

ONS's Fishponds South area, which includes Hillfields, or Speedwell area, which includes most of the roads around Lodge Causeway.

As of September 27 there had been a total of 1,811 cases reported in Bristol since the start of the pandemic, an infection rate of 390.8 per 100,000 population.

The last confirmed death in Bristol as the Voice went to print was in the week ending September 4. No deaths have been confirmed in the Fishponds, Eastville or Stapleton areas since the beginning of June, with one death in the Frenchay & Great Stoke area reported that month.

Mr Rees said: “We are very concerned about the future. We are experiencing a second wave.

“We really have to take care and cooperate with the guidance.

“It’s important you know this, because there’s going to be a general shift more towards enforcement.

“Please avoid getting fines by supporting the behaviours that we need.”

Mr Rees said that enforcement officers would be concentrating their efforts on places known for repeat offences and offenders, “so there’ll be less reticence about issuing fines”.

“We’re telling you because we want you to be aware of the law, the regulations and the penalties so avoid people in Bristol being fined,” he said.

He added that people will be required by law to self-isolate from September 28, but a support payment of £500 will be available for those on lower incomes who cannot work from home and have lost income as a result.

“If you do get symptoms, stay at home, call the NHS 111 or book a test online and self-isolate until you get the results from that test,” Mr Rees said.

“We’re responsible to each other – one person’s actions

can save or cost the lives, the livelihoods, of another."

Earlier Bristol’s director of public health Christina Gray said Covid-19 rates in communities were higher than official figures suggested because national problems and delays with testing are giving an incomplete picture of the reality on the ground.

But she said Bristol had a “fighting chance” of avoiding government-enforced local lockdowns seen in the North and the Midlands, because the region has had the lowest levels of cases throughout the pandemic.

By Amanda Cameron, Local Democracy Reporting Service

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October, 2020

n NEWS

Bins are a safety hazard, say residents A RESIDENTS' group is calling on the city council to remove commercial waste bins at the side of Fishponds Road.

The East Park Residents Group says it has been complaining to Bristol City Council for years about the bins, which line the pavement between the Freeland Buildings and East Park junctions in Eastville, on the opposite side of the road to several food shops and restaurants.

They say rotting food drips out of the bins and runs down the pavement and excess waste is left next to them, which also encourages fly-tippers.

Things came to a head in September when elderly resident Lolita Tucker fell over as she tried to avoid a slick of waste, ending up bruised and with her clothes covered in stinking gunge.

Mrs Tucker, who is 84 and uses a walking stick, ended up

lying half on the pavement and half in the road next to the bin, operated by Simply Waste, on the evening of September 13.

Passers-by ran to help her up but she was left with bruising to her left knee, leg and side, which was still aching when she spoke to the Voice more than ten days later.

Mrs Tucker said: "The smell was really bad. I had to put all my clothes in the washing machine and get in the shower when I got home.

"I can still feel an ache in my left knee.

The bins line the path taken by residents walking from Freeland Buildings to the nearest bus stop for services heading towards Easton.

Mrs Tucker said: "This problem has been there for a long time. They all park big bins by the road – it's really horrible.

"I'm always trying to avoid stepping in it – if it hadn't been

Is your child due to start school?

Pictures courtesy of East Park Residents Group A slick of waste at the bin where resident Lolita Tucker fell on Fishponds Road for the mess, I wouldn't have ended up on the ground."

Gloria Davey of the East Park Residents Group said several complaints had been made to the council over the past three years about the state of bins but, while Bristol Waste teams come out to clear waste from the street, nothing is done about the bins themselves.

Over the summer fly-tippers left bags stuffed with rubbish and even dumped mattresses and beds next to the bins.

Gloria said she had been told by council officials that the authority had given permission for the bins to be left there and that there was a plan to build boxes to store them, but no-one

had ever asked the residents if they agreed.

She said: "We want these bins to be removed."

The Voice has contacted the city council to ask whether enforcement measures were being taken over waste leaking from the bins and whether plans to build 'bin boxes' were still being considered.

We have also contacted Simply Waste Solutions, the contractor which owns the bin at the spot where Mrs Tucker fell, to ask how often its bins are emptied, whether crews are told to clean any mess left around or overflowing from bins, and whether there is a way for the public to report problems.

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A bed and mattresses dumped next to one of the bins in July.

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fishpondsvoice

October, 2020

15

n NEWS

Did you see this fly-tipper? Opening date for play area WASTE enforcement teams are trying to trace this fly-tipper who dumped a carpet in an Eastville road.

CCTV footage captured the man get out of a car with carpet tied to the roof rack on the evening of July 1 in Allfoxton Road.

He cut the carpet loose and drove off, leaving it in the road.

The car is a silver Renault Laguna estate, and the registration number starts with the letters HK, followed by a 0 and a second number, then SKZ but the council's neighbourhood enforcement team says no current registered keeper can be found.

They are calling on anyone who thinks they know who the man is to call 0117 922 2100.

The team has recently tracked down a resident who dumped a TV, two tyres, a chair and a bag of waste on a green space in Eastville and persuaded them to dispose of the waste properly after starting to return the dumped waste to the man's front garden.

People are being encouraged to report any incidents of fly-tipping at www.bristol.gov.uk/streets-travel/report-flytipping

A NEW play area for Fishponds Park is finally due to open later this month – five years after the project started.

City council contractors are currently working to install the equipment near the park's Fishponds Road entrance and are expected to finish by October 9.

Work on the play area is nearing completion But families will have to wait a little longer for the park to open, as a safety inspection will then need to take place, and the play area is due to finally open during the week beginning on October 19.

Work to remove the old play equipment started earlier in the year and it was originally due to open in May. But the coronavirus lockdown added further delays to a project the park's friends group first started fundraising for five years ago.

And work was further delayed last month when two of the contractors working on the project had to self-isolate.

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fishpondsvoice

16

October, 2020

n NEWS

Commission 'will help us understand our history' MEMBERS of a commission to examine Bristol's history and its effect on the modern city have been revealed.

The We Are Bristol History Commission was set up following an announcement by Mayor Marvin Rees in the aftermath of the toppling of the statue of Edward Colston in the city centre during a Black Lives Matter protest in June.

At the time of the announcement it was reported that the commission would consider whether to rename remaining streets and landmarks named after the 17th and 18th century slave trader.

The commission, which includes professional historians and what the city council describes as "a wide-range of academics from sectors including philosophy, trade unions, arts and culture, and law", met for the first time in September.

Chaired by Professor Tim Cole, professor of social history and director of the Brigstow

Institute at Bristol University, the other members are: • Dr Madge Dresser – honorary professor of history, University of Bristol • Professor David Olusoga – professor of public history, University of Manchester and a BBC presenter whose recent programmes include A House Through Time • Dr Shawn Sobers – associate professor of cultural interdisciplinary practice, University of West of England • Professor Alan Bogg – professor in law, University of Bristol • Dr Joanna Burch-Brown – lecturer in philosophy, University of Bristol • Estella Tincknell – associate professor in film and culture, University of West of England • Councillor Helen Godwin – cabinet member for women, children and young people, Bristol City Council • Nigel Costley – regional

secretary, Trades Union Congress The council says the mayor "invited the commission to help Bristol better understand its history and how we have become the city we are today", adding: "The commission was initiated after the events of this summer and its work will include the history of slavery as well as the full scope of events that have impacted the city.

"The commission will include the building and removal of the Colston statue as a departure point and it will also consider the growth of education, the struggles of workers for pay and working conditions, and the Chartists and suffragettes campaigning for emancipation."

A council spokesperson was unable to confirm whether renaming streets and landmarks was still within its remit.

The council said the commission's first focus would be to "find ways to invite all citizens to explore the question:

'What have we remembered and who gets to tell our history?'"

Prof Cole said: “This is an opportunity for us to improve the understanding of our city's past together and honestly explore our city's history, as well as our own individual histories, and the ways that they connect.

“History is never a single, monolithic story, but rather an ongoing debate about the past and its meaning."

Mr Rees, who attended the first meeting but will not be a commissioner, said: “Everyone experiences the results of our past differently.

"The commission will help us all build an improved shared understanding of Bristol’s story by learning the origins of our beginnings and our journey, contending with events and their meanings, and making sure we share the stories with generations to come.

"This work will be an important step in helping us all live with difference."

This year our open days will be held virtually. Whilst this will certainly be a different experience, we are excited to provide children and parents' of Reception an opportunity to discover Fishponds CE Academy.

We hope you will gain a sense of the passion, enthusiasm and feel a warm welcome in our wonderful school.

Tune in to talks from the Principal, Class Teachers, Admissions and Pastoral Team as well as seeing the facilities we have to offer.

Virtual Open Evenings for our prospective Reception children are on: Thursday 1st October 2020 @ 6pm on Zoom Wednesday 21st October 2020 @ 6pm on Zoom Tuesday 8th December 2020 @ 6pm on Zoom If you would like to register to attend, please email the School office on FishpondsCEAcademy@dbat.org.uk We will then contact you nearer the time with details on how to join the event on the day.

For further details, please visit our School website: https://www.fishpondschurchacademy.bristol.sch.uk/

To advertise, contact Caroline on 07453 954261

Email: sales@fishpondsvoice.co.uk

Got News? Call Jayne On 0788 0731148

fishpondsvoice

October, 2020

17

n ADVERTISING FEATURE

BMXercisefor teens A NEW fun and friendly way for teenage girls to get into cycling is coming to Hillfields this month.

Teen BMXercise is launching at the Hillfields BMX pump track in Hillfields Park, Thicket Avenue, on Thursday afternoons from October 1 to 22.

BMXercise classes for women are already a big success at the Hillfields track and now Access Sport is looking to reach more young women and girls.

Teen BMXercise is a fitness-based BMX group open to teenage girls and women of any ability to introduce them to the sport and build their skills.

Lucy Fisher from Access Sport said: "It's just a fun way to get in to cycling, increase confidence and socialise.

"We supply the BMX bikes and helmets, to make the courses as accessible as possible, there's a female coach and the first session is free."

If the four-week programme is a hit Access Sport hopes to bring more Teen BMXercise sessions to Hillfields.

Sessions take place within safe riding guidelines and people taking part need to wear long sleeves, trousers and suitable footwear.

For more information email bmxercise@accesssport.co.uk or call 0117 941 5829.

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fishpondsvoice

October, 2020

19

n FRIENDS OF EASTVILLE PARK IT wasn’t so long ago that hardly a moment went by when our conversations didn’t include an observation like "the air is so much cleaner", "there’s much less noise – you can really hear the birds singing", "something’s changed – we’re all being so much more friendly towards each other" and "there’s a real sense of community spirit".

The roller coaster ride of Covid-19 guidelines and restrictions, alongside the uncertainties and fears of many who have been most affected during these turbulent times have certainly taken a toll on our local community. However, we hope that, while the conversations may have changed, we will continue to care and look after one another as we face yet more difficulties over the coming months.

One thing is for sure: while the roads become busier and the scent of fresh air slowly wafts away out of reach, our green spaces and parks are as important as ever.

Eastville Park’s eighty or so acres faithfully and unselfishly offers themselves up to help and support us all. Whether it’s soothing worried minds or aching bodies, providing space to run, ride or relax, there’s so much here that will make just that little difference to each of our daily lives.

Adventures in the playground and in the woodlands, where the trees once again announce a new season with a riot of new colours, are food for the soul. The flowers all around us will soon have fallen and are already being replaced with an exciting array of seeds, nuts and berries, which will fuel the wildlife for the winter coming.

Come into the park whenever you can, experience something that is special for you and take it home with you to help you to get

Beauty of our park is food for the soul in tough times

Friends of

EASTVILLE PARK through the days ahead.

If you’re looking for something to really look forward to in 2021, the Friends of Eastville Park calendar has arrived! Full of stunning images of the park and some fascinating little stories from a hundred years ago, you certainly won’t be disappointed with this little gem- still only £5 and available from the usual outlets.

Speaking of times gone by, our comprehensive A History of Eastville Park, a 40-page document lovingly compiled by Pam Bush, is complete, and we’re currently looking at ways to make it widely available.

As the days draw in and the uncertainties around Covid remain, our programme of activities around the park are slowly winding down.

We’ve had a great run over the last few weeks with a wide variety of regular and one-off sessions, which have all been very well supported.

We’re hoping to revive the

pop-up café at the Nissen hut in the coming weeks. We usually get a lot of Parkrun visitors but with no runs likely, we’ll be especially dependent on regular park users to make a success of it, so please come along and enjoy some autumn yummies!

We have been hard at work applying for various grants and have had some good success – news to follow soon.

We are slowly but surely rebuilding the bowling club and have held several taster sessions which have been extremely popular and a good sign that success is on the horizon. The season has ended now but we are well-placed and optimistic for next May, and a bright future.

We recently held two meadow scything workshops in Everest

Road field, which provided a fascinating insight into this old traditional skill, and we’ll hope to be putting it to good use as we prepare our wild flower meadows for a summer flowering next year.

The Frome Fairies have also been back in action in the river, with a good haul of litter that’s left the river looking quite pretty once again. Despite the increased use of the park by visitors over the summer, we haven’t noticed a significant uptick of litter, which is quite surprising but reassuring.

More information and details of everything we’ve done, do and have plans for can be found on our Facebook group or by visiting our website: www.eastvillepark.org. uk. We are also on Instagram at #eastvillepark.

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October 2020 20

October, 2020 13

■ WILL & PROBATE ADVICE

FREE REVIEW to fix any gaps in your legal protection THE law often doesn’t work in the way you’d expect. Having NO Will or NO Powers of Attorney can cause huge problems for those you most care about.

If you became seriously ill or suffered a serious injury or perhaps a routine operation went wrong, leaving you unable to make decisions on your own, then having Powers of Attorney in place can mean you:● Give access to your savings – perhaps to pay for care or treatment or to pay to support your children or just to pay your bills. Otherwise they can be automatically frozen. ● Can move home to more suitable accommodation.

Otherwise you can be stuck, unable to sell, where you’ve not

already authorised anyone to sign for you on your property transfer documents. ● Allow those you trust to speak up for you in relation to your medical treatment. This can be like a modern version of Living Wills covering your wishes for resuscitation if you have no quality of life.

John Baden-Daintree of Simpson Solicitors says “Even if you are married or have a close family you need to appoint those you trust IN ADVANCE, or they can face huge upset at feeling powerless to help you and often extra expense to try to sort everything out”.

Depending on your situation, the law can also have very cruel consequences if you died with No Will. In the worst cases it can mean:● No inheritance for your children.

● No inheritance for your partner if you are not married. ● Children under 18 in care until the court decides who should look after them. ● The inheritance you wanted to leave being used to pay avoidable tax or care home fees.

Act now to make sure there is no gaps in your legal protection.

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fishpondsvoice

October, 2020

21

n NEWS SECONDARY schools in East Bristol will be asked to make extra space next year to take on some of the 200 children whose promised new school will not be ready in time.

Oasis Academy Temple Quarter was originally meant to open in 2018, but planning delays meant planning permission for the building beside the Feeder Canal was not granted until August.

Parents were told in February that the construction of the new school would not be finished until 2023 at the earliest, but that places for pupils in temporary accommodation might be available by the end of next year.

But Bristol City Council has now received confirmation from the government that no places in temporary accommodation will be available in time for the September 2021 intake.

The news has come as a huge blow to parents in the Redfield and Lawrence Hill area who had fought hard for the new school.

And it means nearby schools including Bristol Brunel Academy, Bristol Metropolitan

Quarry Court

Schools asked to take extra pupils Academy and City Academy are likely to be asked to increase their intake to accommodate the children who should have started at Temple Quarter on a temporary site.

A city council spokesperson said it was not yet clear how many extra places each school would have to provide.

Campaigner Jenny Grinsted has called the failure “unacceptable” and demanded that the money set aside for temporary accommodation is given to east Bristol schools instead.

The council and the Department for Education have told parents that there are several reasons for the situation.

Flooding concerns expressed by the Environment Agency mean the government must consider whether to intervene in the council’s decision to grant planning consent.

A government 'call-in' would entail a lengthy public inquiry, the results of which would not

be known for at least six months or more.

Furthermore, the council has been unable to find any suitable sites for temporary accommodation that the DfE is satisfied would be ready by September 2021.

Bristol mayor Marvin Rees said: “We’ve done our bit. The mitigation we are putting in place for those children is to expand classrooms in other schools, and there’s a lot of work being done on that now.

“We will be able to confirm precise details (later), but talks are going on with the Cabot Learning Federation, City Academy, Bristol Met and Bristol Brunel.”

Mr Rees admitted the council had known for a number of years that the city would need extra secondary places by 2021.

But he said getting schools built was no easy task and that it required multiple partners to “line up” including the DfE, the Environment Agency, developers

Adelaide Place, Fishponds, Bristol BS16 2FX

and education trusts.

“Ultimately free school delivery rests with the DfE, not the local authority,” he said.

Ms Grinsted said: “It’s unacceptable that our children’s life chances will be affected forever by their failure to address this issue.

“Existing schools being required to take many more children than they were designed to now potentially threatens the quality of education for every single child in east Bristol.

A Bristol City Council spokesperson said: “We are working urgently to secure additional temporary accommodation capacity in existing schools to accommodate the need. We are also working with both the DfE and school trusts to ensure sufficient Year 7 places in 2020, with existing schools being required to take additional pupils to meet the demand.’’

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fishpondsvoice

October, 2020

23

n ADVERTISING FEATURE

Loyal customer Joyce, 95, opensoptician'snewshop WHEN a Fishponds optician was looking for someone to open its new branch, the obvious choice was among its customers.

Joyce Thatcher is 95 and a "big character" but this is the first time she has been asked to cut the ribbon on a shop.

She was chosen to perform a sociallydistanced ceremony at the new-look Scrivens Opticians & Hearing Care on Fishponds Road, which is opposite the New Moon, a stone's throw from the company's previous branch.

Joyce, who has been married to her 98-yearold husband Tony for 74 years, having been childhood friends, before tying the knot soon after World War II, received a gift voucher and flowers as a thank you.

She said: “I was thrilled but surprised to have been chosen.

"Tony and I have been going to the branch since we moved to Fishponds 12 years ago.

"The staff are first rate and always very polite and very efficient.”

Bristol-born Joyce and Tony also have two daughters, Cynthia and Heather, plus four grandchildren and seven great grandchildren, with another due next month.

Branch manager Sasha Dicken said: “We are delighted to be able to welcome customers into

our new branch – Joyce was the first to book after the lockdown restrictions were lifted.

"She is such a big character and always makes us laugh with her stories, and was the obvious choice to mark our opening."

The new store features three testing rooms, the latest digital eye examination equipment

and a new and updated range of frames, including the latest designer names.

Scrivens Opticians & Hearing Care is a family business which was established in 1938.

It has 174 stores in England and Wales and more than 1,000 employees.

For more information, visit scrivens.com.

We’ve Moved Come and experience the highest levels of customer service at your new look Scrivens Opticians and Hearing Care Expert Eye Examinations Free NHS Eyecare Designer Frames Free Contact Lens Trials Professional Hearing Care Services Call 0117 958 3395 Visit 745 Fishponds Road, Fishponds, Bristol, BS16 3UP

www.scrivens.com To advertise, contact Caroline on 07453 954261

Email: sales@fishpondsvoice.co.uk

Got News? Call Linda On 0777 0700579

fishpondsvoice

24

October, 2020

n PLANNING MATTERS WITH CHRIS GOSLING

S

INCE penning last month's article, and still ahead of the White Paper which is likely to change many of the fundamentals, a raft of changes to what does and does not require planning permission has been introduced. The speed of this has, in part, led to legal action by a group called Rights: Community: Action which will be heard this month, but that challenge is on procedural matters, rather than being explicitly over the contents of the new legislation. The greatest effect that this challenge can have is to force a re-think on ideas that the government appears to be committed to.

Many of the changes that have happened and will most likely be confirmed after the legal process will include removing the kind of control over types of development that the 'man in the street' would expect to require planning permission. This month the particular street I am going to look at is the high street. Shopping areas will be able to change very quickly by virtue of the changes to the Use Classes Order, and you are

High St changes only likely to know about it once it has happened. While that may appear a bit alarmist, in practice I suspect that the changes will come incrementally, certainly site by site, and their timing will often not be determined until leases run out.

On September 1 the Use Classes that I introduced you to a few months ago were severely concertinaed. All commercial uses have been bundled into a hastily fabricated box marked Class E. At a stroke, this set up a tension between local planning policies which had the intention of 'saving the high street' by ensuring that shopping in long-established streets would have primacy and not get pushed out by the likes off estate agents and takeaways.

I would have included banks and building societies in this list, but many of them are either long-gone or packing for an imminent move.

So at a local level, these shopping frontages are intended to contain mostly shops, which can in practice often lead to empty shops, without

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other uses having a chance to get in. At the same time, nationally, that control has been removed. The planners will no longer decide and in their absence, the market will determine what happens within the new, broader Class E. If reading this is driving you to drink, fear not, public houses fall outside this loosening up and move to a class of their own – so a change of use to them will require a planning application, upon which you are free to comment. If, conversely, reading this is giving you an appetite, the same applies to a pizza outlet. As long as the pizza is hot. Planners make a significant distinction between hot and cold food.

If you are wondering what is driving these changes, you may well have been self-isolating or shielding. The answer is Covid-19.

This disease, which sadly did not stay put in 2019, has had a devastating effect on the retail sector. Its slow descent and replacement with on-line shopping has accelerated in the lockdown and beyond. Many people will unfortunately swap the checkout queues for the convenience of home delivery permanently. The opportunity for 'footfall' to return to the High Street now looks to depend upon more than just which shops survive, but what uses move in to accompany those survivors.

So what can you expect to find on Fishponds Road? Retail, financial and professional services, cafes and restaurants, some non-residential institutions, assembly and leisure uses all now find themselves in Class E. Overnight, your hairdresser or corner shop could become a

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travel agent, a cafe, a gym, a church, a dentist or a day nursery, for example. Perhaps more former churches in Bristol will follow the St Werburghs example and become climbing centres.

This is not the root and branch sorting out of the classes that myself and many others were calling for, but instead yet another amendment and simplification to the existing Use Classes Order. The simplification is welcomed and will provide a fast cure for empty shops.

That is bound to make it more difficult for charity shops, which benefited from the choice between a short term retail solution or an empty unit. This measure gives town centres the opportunity to adapt quickly, subject to market forces. I believe that this is the best that could have been hoped for.

As for the other impacts of this change, the proof will be in the pudding. It adds to the growing list of contemporary uncertainties and unknowns.

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fishpondsvoice

October, 2020

25

n VET BLOG

Why is my pet drinking more?

AN increase in thirst, polydypsia, is a common problem in our pets. It is often associated with increased urination (polyuria,) and in fact passing more urine is often the initial problem, with the pet drinking more to compensate.

Restricting water can rapidly cause problems in these animals as they will become dehydrated very quickly.

So what causes an increase in thirst? Often it is as straight forward as hot weather, or a hot

house if you have the central heating on, or getting lots of exercise. Eating salty food, or salty water if your dog likes catching waves, will increase thirst too.

However, there are also a lot of medical causes. Our older cat patients are very prone to kidney disease, and an increased thirst is often the first sign, but infections, diabetes, liver disease, hormone imbalances and gastro-intestinal problems are other common causes.

If the pet is not showing other signs of illness, it can be difficult to know where the problem is, so if your pet is drinking more, we will often ask to do tests on both urine and blood samples. Investigating an increased thirst early gives the best chance of your vet being able to help your pet.

If you have any questions about your pet’s thirst, please feel free to call us at Kingswood Vets4Pets on 0117 9616417 or email kingswood@vets4pets.com.

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fishpondsvoice

26

October, 2020

n THOUGHT FOR THE MONTH

Tiny virus has big impact

S

CIENCE has given us some amazing understanding of the universe. We are told the universe is about 93 billion light-years long and there are about 1 billion trillion stars.

Nobody should look at the stars and say I am so great. No, when we look at the stars we think how small we are. The Bible says in Psalm 8 the heavens are the work of his fingers and the heavens declare his glory. Psalm 8 then asks the question if God is so great and I am so small, why should he care about me? The incredible encouragement of the Bible is that not only does God care for you but God became a man in Jesus to show that he really cares. So much so that Jesus took upon himself all our wrong doing so that we could be reconciled to him.

We are told that viruses are so small that 10 million could fit on to the head of a pin. I don’t know about you but in the same way I can’t grasp something as

big as the universe, I can’t grasp something as small as a microbe. I read there are 100 million viruses on earth and that they are vital for our existence. They keep ecosystems functioning. Also I read the number of known viruses that cause havoc in the human body is only 21. Couldn’t we not have these 21? How did they get here and how can that be love? Equally couldn’t God have made human beings that never did wrong? Yes he could, but that would mean a whole planet of people who had no choice, could not exercise their moral will and ultimately had no ability to love. It seem that God’s perfect creation has been broken by our wrong choices and we are in a broken world with these negative viruses, but God in his love lives with us in this broken world. His death was to reconcile us and ultimately he will reconcile the broken world.

During this very difficult time of lockdown, while we keep social

distancing, while life has slowed, we have an unprecedented opportunity to think, to examine ourselves and our environment.

Something so tiny as a virus has been capable of disrupting life globally. Can God use it, turning this tragedy to good? Maybe there is an invitation to look and listen.

Can we look out from what we know to see a better view of life?

It’s interesting how well we have managed our lives with less, which begs the question do we really need everything we had anyway. All the things that we thought we needed and have filled our lives with we seem to be managing without. Is this is an opportunity to see, or will we revert to spending money we don’t have, on things we don’t need, to create an impression that won’t last, on people we don’t really know.

This opportunity to look may be for only a short time so let us look closely while we can. Next

Tony Davies Leader, Waterbrook Church

year we may be too busy again.

May we look to see something more, for all the wonders of the physical universe, the Bible says God is not part of this, he is the creator of it. He is light and he is love. Being made in his likeness we have a spirit that has a longing for eternity and is made for a relationship with God.

n ADVERTISING FEATURE

Slimming World

My Slimming World Groups are going to be held at The Beechwood Club Beechwood Road BS15 3TR on a Monday evening Due to current guidelines booking is essential so please contact me, Claire Ball on 07791574353 to avoid disappointment Different times are available whether you’re new to Slimming World or a past member who wants to rejoin, I can help, so please phone or text me as soon as possible so I can reserve a place for you.

Strict guidelines are in place to help make you feel safe and welcome.

I look forward to seeing you.

To advertise, contact Caroline on 07453 954261

I FELT fat, frumpy and unhappy with the way I looked and felt. My asthma was getting worse, my chest would tighten when I walked up hills and my back was painful. I knew I had to lose weight but didn’t know how, so I bought bigger jeans and baggy jumpers.

Before After But the day my jeans ripped on the inside of my thigh as I crouched down to take a photo, I knew I had to do something: my son was getting married, time was running out.

My neighbour invited me along to her Slimming World group. I was reluctant to go, as I didn’t like ‘diet’ foods, but plucked up the courage.

I was made to feel welcomed. The consultant greeted me at the door, everyone was chatting, no-one was staring. We were all there for the same reason: to lose weight.

I was surprised – there was so much I could still eat. In my second week of planning meals and measuring healthy extras I lost 4lbs. I received my half a stone award two weeks later: I was given a certificate I put on display at home, like my son's drawings from school! The one stone award quickly came and I started to feel better: I wasn’t using my inhaler so often, the hills became easier and the pain lessened.

Just before my son’s wedding I received my stone and a half award. I felt so good in my dress, and proud to stand by my son.

Slimming World isn’t a ‘diet’, it's a change to the way you live your life – eating healthy, exercise and socialising – and now a career, too.

I want to help anyone feeling the same way I did, not knowing how to start. I look forward to seeing you.

Email: sales@fishpondsvoice.co.uk

Got News? Call Linda On 0777 0700579

fishpondsvoice

October, 2020

n NEWS

27

Arts trail set to return AN outdoor arts trail is returning next month after a successful debut in the summer.

The BSpoke16 Festive Trail will take place on November 27-29, with exhibitions taking place at the homes or workshops of the designers and makers involved.

Organiser Karen Davies said the first event in July had been "fantastically successful".

She said: "The response from the public and locals was way beyond expectations; exhibitors were

ecstatic with the general feedback, encouragement and sales."

November's event will focus on locallyproduced gifts, cards and decorations with a festive feel.

Anyone who is interested in exhibiting should email bspoke16@gmail.com for more details.

Exhibitors already taking part can be seen online at www.bspoke16.co.uk and a map will be available from mid-November.

Police hunt Bieber fan POLICE have issued a distinctive description of a woman they want to trace in connection with an assault on two other women in Eastville Park.

The incident happened at about 7pm on August 26 and the victims, who are both women in their 30s, sustained minor injuries. Avon and Somerset police said the woman they wanted to trace was black, aged 40-50 and of a large build.

A spokesperson said: "She is said to have orange hair and was wearing a Justin Bieber top, leggings, snake boots and carrying a cream and black snake skin bag."

Officers also want to hear from anyone who believes they saw the incident or has video footage.

Anyone with information should call 101 and quote the crime reference number 5220 194 012.

Can you help us keep our clients safe in their own homes?

We are looking for kind and compassionate people to join our teams across north Bristol, and help us to keep our clients safe, independent and connected within their communities.

We are all facing uncertain and challenging times at the moment, but imagine if you were also eldery and in isolation.

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fishpondsvoice

October, 2020

29

n NEWS

Box factory wins place on historic buildings list

A FORMER box factory now used as a kart racing centre is one of the new entries on a list of Bristol's historic buildings.

The former Allen Davies & Co print works and box factory on the Fishponds Trading Estate is now home to Absolutely Karting Bristol.

Designed in 1961, it is the most modern structure among the 24 added to Bristol City Council's Local List, which recognises buildings and monuments that do not have official Grade I, II* or II status from historic England.

The council said the building's "distinctive arched shape remains startling and unusual even today".

The local list aims to preserve buildings of quality, style or historical importance.

Also added to the list this year is the nearby Royate Hill viaduct, which carried a now-abandoned railway over Rose Green Road and is now better known as a pinch point for local traffic.

This year’s list additions focus on Bristol's industrial buildings.

Announcing the selections, the council said: "Unlike Bristol’s grand buildings, the heritage status of those built for industry and workers are often less recognised.

"The list, which has been nominated by members of the public, or identified as at risk, and assessed by an independent panel, now includes 24 important historic industrial sites."

The former Avondale Jam Factory off Woodland Way in Hillfields, which closed in

The former box factory is now a kart racing centre 1949 due to a sugar shortage and is now the home to several small businesses, including a motorbike custom build and repair shop, has also been added to the list by the council, which noted its "eye-catching red and yellow brick façade".

Elsewhere in the city, parts of the Georgian gaslight works on Avon Street, which date back to 1821, the remains of Easton colliery and part of the Barton Hill engine sheds have also been added to the list.

Bristol’s maritime history is also represented, with the inclusion of sites including the Royal Edward Dock, lighthouses and dock walls at Avonmouth.

Council cabinet member for spatial planning and city design Nicola Beech said: “The latest focus on industrial buildings has identified many that are unique, others with national interest,

and some completely new discoveries.

“Industrial buildings are often overlooked as they don’t always fit people’s perceptions of beauty or culture, as they are often built for very specific purposes and

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without elaborate architectural embellishments.

"Recognising the special nature of these places helps highlight their value as part of the history of Bristol, and makes sure they can be conserved and adapted appropriately for new uses. Reusing our historic buildings is the ultimate form of recycling.”

Historic England head of industrial heritage strategy Shane Gould said: “We welcome the latest update of the Bristol Local List with its emphasis on highlighting and promoting the diverse nature of the city's rich industrial heritage.”

The list can be found by searching for 'local list' on the bristol.gov.uk website.

The practice of pain relief Member of the British Chiropractic Association

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

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Email: sales@fishpondsvoice.co.uk

Got News? Call Jayne On 0788 0731148

October, 2020

30

n ON THE TREATMENT TABLE

Investing in new technology WHEN it comes to making people feel better and help them to get fitter, it’s important to leave no stone unturned.

That’s why I’m delighted to say that, at Cleve Chiropractic, we investigate and take on board any new technology that we think will benefit our clients. If you’re suffering from an injury that’s stopping you enjoying your chosen sport or pastime – or maybe you just need to get back to the gardening or DIY – you want to do so as quickly and safely as possible.

We’ll always do our very best to get you back on track, both with traditional and ground-breaking modern treatments and therapies.

The latest bit of kit added to our hi-tech armoury comes in the form of the LightForce laser – a revolutionary way to take away the pain that’s proved to be a huge success for Olympic and college sports teams across the United States, as well in Europe and Asia.

We were so impressed that we bought TWO of these clever little machines and the results for our local patients and sportsmen and

women have been amazing. There have already been some great advances in the treatment of wrist, hand and finger injuries.

Laser therapy is also very beneficial for shoulders and knees and we’ve recently achieved fantastic successes with people who have disc problems, dramatically reducing their pain.

So how do these treatments work and why are they so successful? Basically, laser therapy uses concentrated light to encourage a process called photobiomodulation (PBM). I know… it all sounds a bit like science fiction… but this simple process leads to an increase in cellular metabolism, which helps decrease pain and inflammation.

In turn, this speeds up the healing process.

Depending on the size, depth and severity of the injury, these high-powered lasers can deliver a degree of pain relief in a matter of a few minutes. Most patients will need between three and five sessions to see some serious results – but we think it’s well worth it.

Laser treatments must be applied direct to the skin so that the light gets to the tissue underneath – you can get a warm, comforting feeling from this socalled “laser massage”, now being used by some of the country’s top sports teams, including our own Bristol Bears.

Just give us a call for some quick expert advice on whether this might be that special treatment which could make all the difference for you!

Don’t forget that Cleve Chiropractic also has two new diagnostic ultrasound machines we use for scanning soft tissue injuries and we offer an X-ray service. In short, we’re all geared up to give you the best possible chance to return to full fitness as soon as possible.

It’s great to see so many local sports teams getting back into action following the Covid-19 restrictions. Of course, we all still have to stick to the government guidelines and our clinic prides itself on the strict infection control procedures in place.

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

0117 957 5388

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

If you need assistance to overcome that niggling injury or complaint, we’ll give you the best possible advice and treatment in a safe and friendly environment.

Rest assured, you can follow all the latest HANDS, FACE and SPACE guidance at Cleve Chiropractic!

Club welcomes boxers back for training TRAINING has re-commenced at the Harry Crook Centre in Fishponds under strict England Boxing guidelines.

September 21 was the first day for six months that Downend Boxing Club members could train at the club's gym.

The boxers train in a two metre square space each; only seven are allowed to train in each group and entry to the gym is

restricted to the necessary people only.

Coaches are kept to a minimum, and all equipment is disinfected between uses.

Head coach Craig Turner said: "We are extremely grateful to everyone who has supported us during this difficult time.

"The guidelines, although restricted, have meant we can return to the gym, in some form,

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"We are currently unable to take on new members, and training is restricted to licensed boxers only.

"It is very frustrating, but allows us some usage safely and if we all do our little bit we will KO the virus and have a quicker return to normality."

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Say hello to expert mortgage advice on Downend High Street We’re offering no obligation, fee free* mortgage advice for the rest of 2020.

We can search 1,000s of mortgages for you •

Rates available from under 1.3%.

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Access to 12,000 products from 90+ lenders across the UK.

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Meetings available 8am to 8pm, 7 days a week.

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Covering all aspects of property-related lending including: First Time buying, Homemovers, Buy-to-Let, Help to Buy, Affordable Housing schemes and many more.

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All paperwork completed on your behalf.

Contact your expert adviser today

MAB 10896 05.20

0117 9679240 mabdownend.co.uk mab.downend@mab.org.uk Award-winning mortgage broker

* Fee free mortgage advice is exclusive to MAB in Downend.

As below, there may be a fee through other branches.

Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage.

There may be a fee for mortgage advice. The actual amount you pay will depend upon your circumstances. The fee is up to 1% but a typical fee is 0.3% of the amount borrowed.

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21/05/2020 13:17