Frome Valley Voice April 2021

fromevalleyvoice www.fromevalleyvoice.co.uk

April, 2021 Issue 90

FREE EVERY MONTH IN WINTERBOURNE, FRAMPTON COTTERELL, COALPIT HEATH, IRON ACTON & WINTERBOURNE DOWN

It's great to be back!

Helen writes a book A TEACHING assistant who always wanted to write a children’s book has seen her dream become a reality, after writing it during lockdown.

PAGE 21

Live and Let Live plea A PLEA to save former Frampton Cotterell pub the Live and Let Live from being demolished is being made by councillors.

PAGE 3 Children in Year 2 at St Michael's C of E Primary School in Winterbourne are enjoying being back in class together. Full story: Pages 8&9

New cycle lanes on the way NEW cycle lanes to connect Coalpit Heath and Frampton Cotterell to the Avon Ring Road and Yate are being designed.

Building the route will involve installing new lanes in each direction on the A432 Badminton Road through Coalpit Heath.

And stretches of existing cycle lanes on either

side of the village, between Yate and the A4174, will be widened to increase the space for bikes at the expense of cars and other vehicles.

The work will also involve lowering the speed limit on some parts of the main road into Yate from 40mph to 30mph.

Full story: Page 4

'Vaccine is safe'

HEALTH leaders are reassuring people the Oxford-AstraZeneca covid vaccine is safe after some cancelled appointments over blood clot fears.

PAGE 7

Buying food, fuel and floors

CHURCH members who came together to help people in need last year have launched a new appeal.

PAGE 13

Speak to our friendly team today t: 01454 252 140 or visit our website www.aj-homes.co.uk

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FromeValley Voice contacts Richard Drew

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Your views Letters for publication can be sent to us via email: contact@fromevalleyvoice.co.uk We reserve the right to edit your letter.

Local information South Gloucestershire Council www.southglos.gov.uk 01454 868009 Safer Stronger team sscg@southglos.gov.uk 01454 868009 Anti social behaviour team asbreporting@southglos.gov.uk 01454 868582 Streetcare/litter/vandalism etc streetcare@southglos.gov.uk Environment/trading standards 01454 868001

Police www.avonandsomersetpolice.uk general enquiries: 101 Fire www.avonfire.gov.uk General enquiries: 0117 926 2061 NHS Health Call 111 Well Aware health & social care information www.wellaware.org.uk Tel: (freephone) 0808 808 5252

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 Frome Valley 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.

PUBLISHER’S NOTE: Frome Valley Voice 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.

Frome Valley 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 Richard On 01454 800 120 or richard@fromevalleyvoice.co.uk

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April, 2021

n NEWS

Schools hit by cyber attack THREE primary schools in the Frome Valley area were among 24 which had their computer networks disabled by hackers.

The “targeted ransomware attack”, where malicious software is installed on a system to block access until a ransom is paid, took down IT systems at schools across the Castle School Education Trust and 17 other South Gloucestershire primary schools which use the same network.

Problems started on Tuesday, March 16, and many of the schools' computers were still offline a week later.

St Michael's Church of England Primary School in Winterbourne, Frampton Cotterell C of E Primary and Hambrook Primary School were among 17 local authority schools which were affected by the attack because they use the system run by CSET schools, which runs seven schools including Castle, Marlwood, Downend and Mangotsfield secondary schools.

A joint statement from CSET and South Gloucestershire Council said: “This was a highly sophisticated attack, which breached multiple layers of protection of the IT system shared by schools in Castle School Education Trust and partner primary schools in South Gloucestershire.

“CSET and South Gloucestershire Council are working together with external partners and agencies to investigate this attack and restore IT systems to the schools.

“A cautious and methodical approach is being taken to ensure that systems are restored safely and securely.

“Although some systems have already been restored, others remain offline, and there will be continued disruption over the coming days.

“This highly sophisticated ransomware attack has caused significant disruption to our schools, and we are grateful to our staff and pupils for their patience and understanding as we work together to restore IT systems.

“We would like to reassure the community that all of our schools remain safe and no pupils are at risk as a result of the ransomware attack, and we are working to ensure that their education continues with minimal disruption.”

Children were advised not to log on to the schools' WiFi connections and staff were unable to access classroom resources and other data stored on the system, while parents were advised to phone schools with urgent enquiries and not to rely on email.

A week after the attack the system had still not been fully restored, with schools still unable to use Windows computers.

The attack has been reported to the police and the National Cyber Security Centre.

An NCSC spokesperson said: "We are aware of this incident and are working to fully understand its impact.

"The NCSC works closely with the education sector and we have published practical resources to help schools and colleges improve their cyber security and response to cyber incidents.”

Did you see crash?

A CYCLIST was badly injured in a collision at the Hambrook traffic lights.

Police are calling on anyone who saw the incident at the junction of the Avon Ring Road and Bristol Road to come forward.

Officers are also keen to hear from anyone who has dashcam footage they believe could be relevant.

The collision happened at about 2.35pm on March 9, and involved a man in his 20s on a bike and a grey Volkswagen Golf.

Paramedics took the cyclist to hospital, where he was said to be in a critical but stable condition afterwards.

The road was closed for a number of hours while police carried out a forensic investigation.

Anyone who can help the investigation should call 101 and quote the crime reference number 5221 050 612.

Email: contact@fromevalleyvoice.co.uk

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April, 2021

3

n NEWS

Plea to protect pub building from development A PLEA to save former Frampton Cotterell pub the Live and Let Live from being demolished is being made by councillors.

The 19th century building, which shut for the last time more than a year ago, is currently listed as 'under offer' by estate agents Savills, who have marketed it online as a "residential development opportunity".

At the moment no planning permission for the prominent site, on the corner of Clyde Road and Park Lane, has been secured.

The pub has been locally listed as an important building but does not have formal protection from development which comes with a government graded listing.

Frampton Cotterell Parish Council has written to South Gloucestershire Council planners to urge them to prevent the pub from being demolished as part of any planning application made for the site.

The Live and Let Live pub Councillors said they decided to act immediately because of the strength of feeling about the building.

Parish councillor Pat Hockey said: “I feel very much that the building should be kept and that’s very much the feeling of the parish council.

“We felt we had to accept that any ability that we might have to retain it as a pub was zilch – it’s

not the only pub in the village, so we can’t say it’s a pub of huge importance.

"If there’s another pub just up the road you can’t take that line.

"We thought the main thing was to keep the building, to keep a bit more of our heritage, which is disappearing.”

The Live and Let Live was put up for sale in February by owners the Wellington Pub Company.

It closed in November 2019.

It was formerly a Bath Ales pub, and prior to that owned by Youngs, becoming independent in 2012.

If it is not possible for someone to find a business use for the building, Pat hopes that a sympathetic residential development would be a last resort, rather than demolishing it.

She said: “I think that’s very much the sort of thing that we would like to see – like the Horseshoe Pub. There was space around it and the architect converted the pub building into one property and built the others as if they were all part of the same project.

“Quaint old pubs are loved and used if they’ve got a good chef a good kitchen, but this one hasn’t been lucky enough to have investment coming into it.

"Its value as a site is far greater than its potential as a pub.”

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n NEWS NEW cycle lanes will connect Coalpit Heath and Frampton Cotterell to the Avon Ring Road and Yate Building the route will involve creating some new lanes and widening some stretches of existing cycle lane on the A432 Badminton Road at the expense of cars and other vehicles.

The work will also involve lowering the speed limit on some stretches of the main road into Yate from 40mph to 30mph.

South Gloucestershire Council has announced details of its plans to build a new cycle lane which will link Yate to the A4174 through Coalpit Heath.

The council’s ambition is that the upgrade will not only offer improvements for cyclists already using the route but will encourage people who work or visit Yate to consider cycling as an alternative to driving.

Council cabinet member for regeneration, environment and strategic infrastructure Steve Reade said: “We want to do all we can to encourage sustainable transport options, for both commuting and leisure, so that

New cycle lanes will link villages to Yate and ring road

A council diagram shows how cycle lanes will be widened under the plans we can continue to improve our environment, air quality and people’s health and well-being."

The route will be built in four stages, with traffic lanes reduced in width to accommodate the

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cycle lane on both sides of the road.

The first section to be built, between Coalpit Heath and the Nibley Lane junction, will see the new cycle lane raised up to create a separate protected track, 2m wide.

The current 40mph limit on this stretch of the road will be reduced to 30mph under the plan.

The next stages to be built will be between Coalpit Heath and the ring road to the south west and from Nibley Lane to Stover Road to the north east.

The final stretch to be completed will be along Badminton Road through Coalpit Heath, where there is currently no marked cycle lane.

Design work on the scheme is underway after a consultation lasting just over two weeks, which was held last year.

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In the longer term the council’s aim is to have a route that goes through Yate along Station Road, past the shopping centre and continues along Kennedy Way. But the authority has had to drop plans to extend the cycle lane along the final stretch of Station Road past Yate Shopping Centre, towards Link Road and Kennedy Way, because the cost of the work needed was too expensive for the Active Travel Fund which is paying for the changes.

Concerns had also been raised at the potential loss of right-turn lanes around the shopping centre car park the plans would have involved.

On Station Road, there has been controversy over the cycle lane which was installed last year using an experimental order lasting up to 18 months, to support social distancing and cycling.

Many traders and residents remain unconvinced that the cycle lanes are being used and are unhappy about parking spaces having been removed.

The council has been working with transport charity Sustrans and is planning changes from April which will include colour surfacing at junctions, and is considering providing extra parking.

The cycle path scheme will also be part of the Yate Master Plan, an initiative that aims to set out a future vision for the town.

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April, 2021

5

ADVERTISING FEATURE

n NEWS

What do the Metro Mayor manifestos offer for residents in Winterbourne, Frampton Cotterell & Coalpit Heath?

Signs warn of flood risks at the junction of Perrinpit Road and Old Gloucester Road

Roadwork plans revealed WORK to tackle flooding problems and poor surfaces on roads in the Frome Valley area is due to get underway in the coming months.

South Gloucestershire Council will carry out work near the junction of Perrinpit Road and Old Gloucester Road, Frampton Cotterell as part of a £3.7 million flood resilience programme.

The scheme is also due to tackle flooding problems on Yate Road in Iron Acton, The Downs in Wickwar and Stover Road, Yate, at the Frome bridge.

Resurfacing schemes are also due to be carried out in the area over the next 12 months, the biggest of which will see around £740,000 spent on in resurfacing roads and paths in Winterbourne, including the High Street, Swan Lane, Stone Lane and Bristol Road.

Almost £240,000 will go towards resurfacing work in Frampton Cotterell, including resurfacing Westerleigh Road and Bristol Road and improving footpaths on Badminton Road and Church Road.

Charfield will also see more than £250,000 spent on resurfacing Avon Road, Berkeley Close, Orchard Close, Underhill Road and Manor Lane.

An investigation into traffic safety at Damson Bridge in Winterbourne is due to be carried out.

In Yate, resurfacing will take place on Goose Green, while in Chipping Sodbury, bridge strengthening works will be carried out at the Swan Inn Bridge.

The flood resilience work is being carried out after the council was awarded £3.2m from the Department for Transport Local Highway Maintenance Challenge Fund scheme. The council will spend a further £500,000 to the scheme from its own budget, which will see a total of £8.75m spent on road maintenance and infrastructure improvements.

The roads included in the scheme have been identified as having an issue with flooding during extreme weather.

The first one where work will be carried out is Bristol Road in Frenchay, used by many commuters from the Winterbourne area to reach Bristol.

Work to replace drainage pipes started on March 22 and from April 6 a combination of temporary traffic lights and complete closures were due to take place, with signed diversions in operation.

Bus routes along the road will be diverted, with passengers advised to check the Travelwest website for updates.

Winterbourne ward councillors Nic Labuschagne and Trevor Jones welcomed the work planned for the area.

They said: “It is fantastic to see several important roads in our community will get the funding for the maintenance they need to keep them to a high standard and it is great to see the Council will be investigating safety improvements around Damson Bridge, following our representations on behalf of residents.”

South Gloucestershire is also set to see £2.82m of a £2.5 billion government Potholes Fund to make repairs.

Got News? Call Richard 0n 01454 800 120

View from Dan Norris, Labour Metro Mayor Candidate The coronavirus crisis has been devastating for lives and livelihoods. But it has also shown us what matters most. People have come together through mutual aid groups, our key workers have been heroic, and we have rediscovered the value of local services and local green spaces.

Jobs first. After the economic devastation of the pandemic Dan Norris has pledged to be a 'Jobs First' Metro Mayor. His manifesto includes plans for 23,000 new Green Jobs.

Invest in local shops. Dan Norris has criticised the current Mayor for leaving millions to support our High Streets unspent. As Metro Mayor he plans to allocate the much-needed cash as soon as possible.

Valuing what matters. Dan Norris promises a focus on quality of life, so our area is the best place to grow up in and and grow old in.

Labour Leader meets West of England Ambulance Workers Local paramedics received a visit from Labour leader Keir Starmer and Dan Norris to say thank you.

Ambulance workers told the Labour duo about their tireless work throughout the pandemic.

But the one per cent pay rise the Government plan for NHS staff has been called an insult.

Dan Norris said: "I heard about the impact

Labour Leader Keir Starmer and Metro Mayor candidate Dan Norris speaking to ambulance workers

of the pandemic on local workers. Surely now is the time to show we value them? " Promoted by Paul Tucker on behalf of Dan Norris both at 136a Walcot St, Bath BA1 5BG

Email: contact@fromevalleyvoice.co.uk

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fromevalleyvoice April, 2021 News from the Floral Friends of Frampton

6

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Spring has head massage sprung! began with Carol After the spending time lovely weather working on my in February back, shoulders daffodils and and neck, before other spring turning to my bulbs burst arms and hands. into flower Even sat upright all over in a chair this was “I love whatthe I can do to The cannabis factory. village. ust very relaxing.

Picture: Avon and I help people.

To me it is the Even the ully Somerset police. opted to have best feeling thecrocuses world when in I oils used on my have just finished a treatment The Triangle y head, but this is a and my client says to meThe “That (opposite personal choice.

Sun) was wonderful,Rising I feel so much Having your her TWO blooming. better are now.”’ men have been charged after a large cannabis factory was found massaged in ahead warehouse in Westerleigh.

Hopefully they Carol Massey About 600 plants were seized, along with growing equipment, is incredibly st will survive during a raid on March 3 by neighbourhood police officers working relaxing, as is the work on your face which completes s our now more with Operation Viscount, Avon and Somerset police’s specialist team this wonderful 40 minutes was over farand to tackling treatment. cannabis production. tary dedicated usual wet Western Power alsoCarol attended andto made the electricity safe. too quickly and had rouse me windy with supply a weather glass The two men arrested, aged 21 and 46, were charged with of water! and bloom d production of a controlled drug and abstracting electricity.

They were being held in custody ahead of an appearance at Bristol well into April.

Carol mainly a mobile therapy service, Crown Court on Aprilprovides 7. e New stepping stones at the for Sensory which is particularly beneficial older members ead Garden – More logs havemums kindlyand been donated to of the community, busy anyone with rful Floral Friends to make the log trail at the Sensory mobility issues. Mobile treatments are viewed ng Garden more exciting.when Don'tthere forget huntthan for one bugs as a treat, especially is to more y and use the magnifier to get a closer look! person in the household who would like a treatment (husbands/wives, girlsApril get together also Spring Fayre – 27 2019 –etc).

OurShe annual has employers who book her for a regular day ouch Spring Fayre will be at the Brockeridge Centre on each month of to Saturday come into27 theApril, officeopening as part at of 10am. their ng at the morning employee program (suggest that yourand a Come alongwelfare and enjoy a cup of coffee (ortotea) the boss!). slice of cake in the Sensory Garden (if the weather’s gh good or insideyou if it’s raining!) and thebasis, plants So, whether treat yourself onbrowse a regular or we will be offering for sale.

Meet some rescue a one off treatment, give your body that well earned hedgehogs (find at http://hedgehogrescue. culty bit of time out to out helpmore rejuvenate itself. webplus.net) and enjoy the Sensory Garden.

Give Carol a call and make time Just for You! r and ul for on, WE BUY COLLECTABLES d. £ £

Cannabis factory found

Flower Festival – The Flower Festival planned for June 2019 has been postponed until next year (2020) as the Village Picnic and Dog Show is scheduled to take place MORE than 200 people have objected to plans to turn a paddock Winterbourne and Downend into pitches for travellers. atbetween the same time (15 The Voice reported last month that plans had been submitted June 2019).

We hope to South Gloucestershire Council to provide pitches for two that everyone the the mobile homes andenjoys two touring caravans, along with two Passionate about environment and dayrooms in Dog permanent structures, Picnic and show and at the site at Bury Hill Lane, near Hambrook. Environmental Group is now part of Winterbourne that it is a great success.

The land currently has permission for use in agriculture and Friends of ofthe earth, a climate action group being More information about the the keeping horses.

Spaces to park four oncrisis. new hardstanding are also a local solution to avehicles global Climate action Flower Festival planned for included in the plans, submitted by a firm of Surrey-based groups are made up of local people coming together 2020 will be available later architects on behalf of applicant Dean Smith. to make the communities more climate-friendly. in the Butyear. the scheme has been objected to by 216 people, who have

Pushback on paddock plans

Winterbourne and Frome Vall

written to the council.

Winterbourne Environmental Groupwebsite are running We Need Help!

If youon the council's The objections published include

claimslitter that the proposed site would make surrounding lanes local picks involving localthecommunity every could help with planting orthe maintaining a planter, we "busier and more dangerous", would "bring discontent to the month in varying locations around Winterbourne would love to hear from you.

You don't have to be existing established residents of Moorend" and be a "blot on the liaison officer is Sheelagh would athe gardening expert, just happyMason to lendifayou hand and landscape". also called onarrange the council to preserve spaceemail in the likeMany to orour abeautiful. litter pickgreen please help ussuggest to make village Please email area, which was used for walks by people living locally. winterbourneenvironmental@gmail.com. us at Nofloralfriendsofframpton@gmail.com date for a decision on the plans had been fixed as the Voice went to press. – all our latest news in available at Remember Our Share and Repair Café is providing an http://ffframpton.wixsite.com/frampton-cotterell alternative to throwing away and filling our landfill

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28 fromevalleyvoice

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n NEWS

Fo m op

Don't cancel your COVID-19 vaccination' HEALTH leaders are reassuring people about the safety of the OxfordAstraZeneca vaccine after some appointments in the area were cancelled over misplaced fears of blood clots.

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

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

Claire Thompson, from the Sara Blackmore NHS Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire Clinical commissioning group, told South Gloucestershire councillors: “We have had some people ringing and cancelling.

"It’s not huge numbers, but there is, understandably, some concern from people.”

Ms Thompson, who is the officer responsible for the vaccination programme in the region, told members of South Gloucestershire Council’s health scrutiny committee on March 17 that the cancellations were mostly from people booked to get their first dose of vaccine.

She said reception staff were explaining to people who were worried that: “Any risk from receiving the vaccine is far outweighed by the benefit of the immunity it provides.”

South Gloucestershire’s director of public health, Sara Blackmore, told the committee: “In terms of information that is available to us, the number of clots occurring doesn’t exceed what you’d expect to see in the general population anyway.

“There’s no evidence showing any link between the vaccine and clots.”

But blood clots occur for a variety of reasons, happening in around one in 1,000 people in the general population every year, and there is no evidence that the vaccine raises the risk.

According to the European Medicines Agency, close to five million people had received the AstraZeneca vaccine by March 10, but only 37 blood clots had been reported – significantly fewer than would normally occur in the general population anyway.

The programme is aiming to vaccinate all those aged 50 years and over, and younger people with a particular health risk, by the end of April.

As the vaccine rollout and lockdown take effect, the number of new infections in the Frome Valley area remains low.

In the week to March 18 there were 6 new cases confirmed in Frampton Cotterell, 5 in Winterbourne, 7 in Pucklechurch & Westerleigh, which includes Coalpit Heath, and 2 or less in Charfield, Wickwar & Iron Acton - the Office for National Statistics does not release precise figures when fewer than 3 people have tested positive in an area.

Four weeks previously the numbers for those areas were 7, "less than 3", 17 and 7 respectively.

In the year to March 12, 137 South Gloucestershire residents had died with COVID-19, 50 in care homes, 80 in hospital and seven at home. Of those, 27 deaths were in the most recent four weeks.

Last year there were a total of 276 deaths with COVID-19 registered among residents of the district.

Meeting report by Amanda Cameron, Local Democracy Reporting Service

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fromevalleyvoice

April, 2021

n NEWS

Schools welcome children back HEAD teachers at schools in villages across the Frome Valley area say the return to school has gone smoothly.

Ahead of the first day back on March 8, pupils experienced a mix of emotions after so many weeks of home learning with their parents.

Mike Riches, Executive Head teacher at Iron Acton Primary said: “Some were a bit nervous before arriving but as soon as they were in they were fine.

"When we asked them how it felt to be back on the first day they appeared overjoyed and reported that they were thrilled; they also said they didn’t have any worries at all about being back.”

Mr Riches acknowledged the role that parents have had to play, saying: “Families have been so supportive and understanding of the difficulties faced over recent weeks and we are so grateful to them all for

Reception pupils return to Elm Park Primary WB Generic AW.qxp_Layout 1 23/09/2020 21:57 Page 2

doing such a significant amount of work with the children during lockdown.”

Frampton Cotterell Primary head teacher Pete Barnard at said: “We’ve been delighted with how everyone has returned so positively. Children, parents and staff have all been looking forward to being together again.”

School leaders have recognised that for some children, the return to school after so long at home has been more challenging, and so they have put additional support in place.

At Elm Park Primary in Winterbourne, some pupils are on a gentle path back to the classroom, known as a ‘phased return’, where they initially attend part-time only.

Head teacher Carol Bond said: “We have also been fortunate to offer our breakfast club provision to families to support children who suffer

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fromevalleyvoice

April, 2021

after lockdown from high levels of anxiety to come into school a little earlier, so that they can have time with a familiar adult before the school day starts.

"This has been really successful.”

At St Michael’s Primary in Winterbourne, pupils are being supported with play therapy, one-to-one listening support, and parents can talk to a parent support advisor.

At Frampton Cotterell Primary, more resources are being put into pastoral support and staff supporting pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, with daily well-being sessions.

At Iron Acton Primary, an emotional literacy support assistant is working to support children's mental health.

There is recognition at all the schools that children who have been away from their peers need extra time to catch up socially.

St Michael’s Primary head teacher Kirsty Robson said: “Our focus for the children on their return is to re-engage them with their learning, and yes, catch-up with the academic side of education is important, but equally important is to give them time to catch up with their friends, teachers, lunchtime supervisors, office staff and me!

"We are prioritising opportunities for outdoor learning such as forest schools, using the conservation area, daily opportunities for physical activity with the daily mile or PE and Games.”

At Frampton Cotterell primary, lunchtimes have been extended to give more time for play.

Mr Barnard said: “'Catch up' to us means catching up with friends and learning how to work collaboratively again with their peers."

At Iron Acton, the outside

9

Year 6 pupils back at St Michael's

spaces are busy with an emphasis on play, Forest School and PE. The next big challenge to add to year group bubbles, hand sanitising, one-way systems and remote learning has been COVID-19 lateral flow testing: for all pupils and staff in secondary schools and for staff only in primaries.

Mrs Bond said most staff tested at home, with all tests negative so far.

She added: "Our staff have been given the option to wear face masks, which have been provided by the school. All staff are wearing these in communal areas but take them off when in the classroom teaching our children.”

School leaders are now looking ahead hoping that, despite working within new restrictions, the worst is now behind them.

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Do you enjoy living or working in Coalpit Heath?

Would you like to be a part of improving Coalpit Heath?

Coalpit Heath is part of the Parish of Westerleigh which covers a wide area between Yate and the Bristol ring-road.

The Parish Council is made up of 9 Councillors and the Parish Clerk - working to improve the look and feel of the Parish by improving our assets such as the War Memorials, Manor Hall, Newman Field, play equipment, the fishing Lake at Bitterwell, Ivory Wood, and maintaining services such as grass cutting, bin emptying, and generally using funds for the benefit of our Community, as well as taking part in larger South Glos Consultations such as the Local Plan and Transport Plan.

We have input in the planning process and are consulted on planning applications large and small.

We award grants to local organisations and charities who benefit the community by providing vital local services.

Being a voluntary Parish Councillor is rewarding and engaging due to the variety of all the topics shown above - and we need new Councillors for Coalpit Heath with a few hours a week to spare to make a difference. To find out more please contact Sue the Parish Clerk on 07367 787883 or by email westerleighpc@gmail.com OR chat to Rob, the Chair of the Parish Council - Rob is a local resident and works in the Parish. Call him on 07590 552201 or email: cllrrobmccullough@gmail.com

Got News? Call Richard 0n 01454 800 120

Email: contact@fromevalleyvoice.co.uk

fromevalleyvoice

10

April, 2021

n STROUD AUCTION ROOMS

Opening our doors once again STROUD Auctions are delighted to be able to reopen to the public in April.

We have scheduled our first post-lockdown auction for the 14th & 15th, the fully illustrated catalogue is available online via our website and includes a private collection of over 700 vinyl records, plus musical instruments, guns and weapons, medals and militaria and sporting goods. Viewing will be on Monday and Tuesday, April 12 and 13, but this will continue to be by appointment only, so that we can be sure to keep everyone safe by social distancing and limiting numbers in the saleroom. Please call us on 01453 873800 to book in.

Of particular note in the April auction is a John Dixon & Son 14 bore side-by-side percussion sporting gun, estimated at £500-800 and being sold without reserve: it is sure to be well received by bidders from across

the country and further afield.

The fine Damascus barrelled example comes in its fitted mahogany case with label and a selection of accessories, and will be sold on the second day of the auction alongside over 1,000 lots of guns, weapons, medals and militaria.

Other notable lots include two very scarce German Tell air pistols, in 6mm and 6 1/3mm calibres, a cased Beretta SO3 EL, a 6 bore live pigeon gun by Elizabeth Fletcher of Gloucester and a brass-barrelled W Ketland & Co flintlock blunderbuss, with sprung bayonet.

Following on just three weeks later, the next auction will be on May 5, 6 and 7.

The catalogue for this sale is also available online via our website. Specialist sections include: pictures, books, ephemera, stamps, ceramics, glass, Asian and tribal art, cameras, scientific

This John Dixon & Son sporting gun is expected to be a highlight of Stroud Auctions' first postlockdown sale. instruments, weights & scales, toys and furniture. Viewing will be from 10am to 7pm on Tuesday May 4, again by appointment only.

We will also be hosting the BBC programme Antiques Road Trip on day two of the auction, which is always an interesting experience!

Our extremely popular valuation days will begin on Friday April 16, again by appointment only for now.

If you have anything you would like the team of specialist valuers

to look at for you just call us for a free, no obligation appointment.

We also offer valuations at home if you prefer, or simply email us an image or two to valuations@ stroudauctions.co.uk.

Probate valuations are also available, at very competitive rates.

We would like to thank all our customers for their support and patience during challenging times: we look forward to seeing everyone again.

STROUD AUCTION ROOMS Contact our specialist valuers for a free home visit or email valuations@stroudauctions.co.uk

To advertise, contact Richard on 01454 800 120

Email: contact@fromevalleyvoice.co.uk

fromevalleyvoice

April, 2021

11

n NEWS

Park and ride work gets underway WORK on the new park and ride for Yate is underway.

Contractors have begun digging the site next to South Gloucestershire Council's offices in Badminton Road.

The £3.6 million facility will include 198 parking spaces, 38 electric vehicle charging points and secure cycle parking for 46 bikes, as well as improved bus stops for services including First's Y1, which will divert through the park and ride once it has opened. A metrobus route on the A432, which would also stop at the site, is also on the cards.

When funding was approved for the scheme last year by the West of England Combined Authority, it was originally suggested that it could be open by the end of this March.

However there is currently no firm opening date, although council leaders say they expect to see it open "later this year".

The local authority-owned

Contractors start digging up the park and ride site in Yate greenbelt site will be served by a traffic light pedestrian crossing and zebra crossing.

The council expects it to also be used by rail passengers, as Yate Station is an eight-minute walk away.

Council cabinet member for strategic infrastructure Steve

Reade said: “It is great to see work starting on the Yate Park and Ride site.

“This new facility is part of our commitment to creating more green travel options for our residents and will contribute towards our Climate Change ambitions to reduce greenhouse

gas emissions.”

Council leader Toby Savage said the site would be "active later this year".

Metro Mayor Tim Bowles said: “By giving people viable alternatives to using their car, we are tackling congestion, getting emissions down and improving air quality. I can’t wait to see it up and running.”

The council says that as part of the preparations, a number of tree saplings were removed but are "being kept safe" and will be replanted within the park and ride site in the autumn.

Calls for a park and ride in the area have been made for more than 10 years.

And a taskforce set up by the council's scrutiny commission, which spent months assessing Yate's current transport problems, has recommended that a second park-and-ride site should be considered on the opposite side of the town centre.

DISCOVER WHAT COLSTON’S CAN OFFER YOUR CHILD Join our

Whole School Virtual Open Morning Friday 30th April from 9.30am To register, visit www.colstons.org/visiting-colstons Got News? Call Richard 0n 01454 800 120

Email: contact@fromevalleyvoice.co.uk

The Heathers Nursing Home Our aim is to give a high standard of nursing and personal care in a traditional, homely and friendly environment. The Heathers is a home of great character and charm. The interior architecture, with many of its original features, gives a perfect setting for the home comforts we aim to provide.

The Heathers Nursing Home is a privately owned, Grade 2 Listed Georgian manor house, situated within walking distance of the town centres of Chipping Sodbury, and Yate.

First Class Facilities and Support • A history of providing 24 hour, high quality care in South Gloucestershire • Each resident is unique to us and treated as such • The home is small and family run, offering a highly personalised service • Exceptional standards of cleanliness and hygiene • Respite, residential care and day care available • Special diets catered for by our expert Chefs

Get in touch and speak with our team, or arrange a viewing to see our facilities for yourself.

Ian – Registered Manager • Julie – General Manager

Telephone 01454 312726 or Email info@heathersnursinghome.co.uk

www.3abcare.co.uk

fromevalleyvoice

April, 2021

n NEWS

New appeal to help people in need CHURCH members who came together to help people in need last year have launched a new appeal.

Organisers of Together For Fromeside’s Comfort and Joy appeal, launched last November, now want to help families in need over Easter.

Kate Kernaghan, of Peter Barnard, head of Frampton Zion Church in Frampton Cotterell C of E Primary School with Cotterell, said the new fellow members of the Comfort & Joy appeal, working with project Kate Kernaghan, Naomi Sharp, local schools, health and Rev Malcom Strange and Zoe Drew last housing bodies, aimed to year. provide funding for ‘Food, Fuel and Floors’ for those in need.

She said: "The response from across the community to Together For Fromeside’s ‘Comfort and Joy’ appeal was awesome!

"Over £11,000 was donated and every penny helped to make a huge difference to families in need, who received food vouchers, hampers, winter clothes, assistance with fuel bills and more.

"It will come as no surprise that there is still significant need; some 30% of under 16-year-olds nationally are in poverty, and this figure is expected to grow.

"This Easter, families in the Frome Valley are also in need, and your local churches are committed to seeking to meet this need and are inviting us all to join in."

The food part of the appeal aims to provide local emergency food provision.

The fuel aspect aims to tackle fuel poverty, where people cannot afford to heat homes, which organisers say has grown during months of lockdown and home-schooling.

Organisers say that moving in to rented accommodation with just cement floors, without the means to buy any carpet or other flooring, is "a difficulty experienced by many local families".

Donations can be made online at justgiving.com/campaign/ foodfuelfloors and can also be made by cheque, made out to ‘Churches Together in Frampton Cotterell & Coalpit Heath (LEP)’ and delivered to Zion Church in Woodend Road, Frampton Cotterell.

As the Voice went to press the appeal had passed £3,500.

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fromevalleyvoice

April, 2021

n EDUCATION ADVERTISING FEATURE

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

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

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

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

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

To advertise, contact Richard on 01454 800 120

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

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

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

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

Applications are open for courses at https:// www.boomsatsuma.education

Email: contact@fromevalleyvoice.co.uk

fromevalleyvoice

April, 2021

15

n NEWS

Bench celebrates area's mining history

A NEW carved bench at Ram Hill Colliery celebrates the Coalpit Heath area's long mining history.

The bench, made from oak, has been created by local wood sculptor Andy O'Neill.

Andy is well known for his work at other sites, such as Kingsgate Park in Yate, where he used a chainsaw to carved part of a tree into a fairytale castle.

The bench at Ram Hill Colliery shows a pony pulling a cart, or dram, filled with coal, to mark the route the coal was taken along the dramway to Willsbridge.

On one end of the bench an engine house is depicted, where a horse would turn a carousel which powered a system to raise a coal bucket up from the mine.

On the other end of the bench is a barge, because the coal was loaded onto barges at Willsbridge on the River Avon, and taken to Bristol.

The mine, which is now filled in, was 170 metres deep, and run

Kate Kelliher and Ann Fay of the Friends of Ram Hill Colliery with sculptor Andy O’Neill, who created the new bench. Photo: South Gloucestershire Council. by the Coalpit Heath Colliery Company between 1825 and 1865.

But the history of mining in the area dates back much earlier, to the 14th century.

The idea for the carved bench came from the chair of the Friends of Ram Hill Colliery,

Ann Fay. She said: “I was keen to get a bench installed for elderly and disabled people to have somewhere to rest.

"I worked with disabled people for many years and there were never enough resting places when out and about, and as I

am now in the elderly bracket, I know how important it can be to have somewhere to have a rest.”

The bench was carved from an oak tree which grew on the Badminton estate and was thought to have been 400 years old when it was blown down.

Its design ensured that no digging was needed to install it on what is a scheduled ancient monument.

The £2,375 cost was funded

by South Gloucestershire Council, including a grant from local councillors Clare Young, Tristan Clarke and Jon Lean through the Member Awarded Funding scheme.

The Friends of Ram Hill Colliery are looking for a new treasurer and people to help out on work days, when COVID-19 restrictions allow.

For more information contact the secretary Kate Kelliher by email at katekelliher@hotmail. co.uk

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This is on a first come basis, no bookings taken Please check social media for updates Takeaways will still be running Friday/Saturday 5-8.30pm & now Sundays 12-4pm!

Please follow on Facebook or Instagram for updates!

GRAND OPENING IS MAY 20TH Bookings are now live.

Opening hours: Monday-Thursday 9am-10pm Friday-Saturday 9am-11pm (bar closes 10pm) Sunday - 9am-9pm We will also have tables for walk ins!

Please follow on Facebook or Instagram for updates!

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Got News? Call Richard 0n 01454 800 120

Email: contact@fromevalleyvoice.co.uk

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fromevalleyvoice

18

April, 2021

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

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

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

Samuel Williams

Dan Norris

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

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

Stephen Williams

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Samuel Williams: Jobs, Jobs and Jobs! Our region is full of opportunity; as we recover from the impacts of Covid, following the tremendous vaccine roll-out, I will connect all communities across the West of England with the opportunity to secure our future progress. I will invest over £100 million over the next 4 years to secure the recovery of our skills, training and business. In addition, I will invest in our transport network with new services and build homes for the future.

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

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

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

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

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

To advertise, contact Richard on 01454 800 120

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

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

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

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

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

Samuel Williams: As an

Jerome Thomas

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

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

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

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

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

Email: contact@fromevalleyvoice.co.uk

fromevalleyvoice

April, 2021

19

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

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

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

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

Kerry Barker

Cleo Lake

deputy last year.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Focusing on crime prevention and

Heather Shearer

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

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

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

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

Got News? Call Richard 0n 01454 800 120

Mark Shelford

John Smith

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

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

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

and People & Culture committees.

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

Bristol Lord Mayor, 2018/19.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The soaring levels of violent and sexual offences are unacceptable.

Cleo Lake: I would be highly visible. I would like to work more closely with unions and Independent Advisory Groups to inform from a community perspective. I would support setting up both a youth and African Heritage IAG.

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

Heather Shearer: I would ask difficult questions of the Constabulary and partners but also build effective working relationships.

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

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

• The election takes place on May 6, 2021

Email: contact@fromevalleyvoice.co.uk

20

fromevalleyvoice

April, 2021

n NEWS

Book shares Bill's marathon passion A RUNNER from Coalpit Heath has written about his passion in a book.

Bill Graham has taken part in the London Marathon, the Comrades Marathon, the High Peak Marathon and the Joss Naylor Challenge, he’s competed abroad, he’s done 160 laps of a running track, he’s run through the night; and now he’s put pen to paper and written about his experiences in his book Running on Tired Legs.

Running has always been an activity Bill has enjoyed: he even looked forward to cross country runs at school, but his interest in distance running started in his late twenties at a time when football was his first passion.

He was getting knee pain and his doctor advised running a few times a week, and it wasn’t long before Bill was hooked.

Bill, aged 60, now runs with his regular running partners, his dogs Milligan and Ollie.

Bill said: “I nearly gave up a few years ago after a serious injury but just felt drawn back to it once I recovered.

"My running these days is about enjoyment and not about speed, and I try to do as much off-road as I can.

“The aim of the book is to give advice while hopefully making it an enjoyable read. When I started running I made lots of mistakes and I am hoping that relating my mistakes and failures will enable people to avoid making those same mistakes.

“My favourite part of the book is my struggle to gain what I thought was the ultimate in terms of marathon running, getting round the 26.2 miles in under 3 hours.”

To advertise, contact Richard on 01454 800 120

Bill Graham running with dogs Milligan and Ollie

The idea for the book began when ten years ago Bill was asked by someone from his running club to write a short history of his running career, and he quickly realised that he

couldn’t fit it into two pages.

It has awakened a second passion - he now wants to keep writing.

Running on Tired Legs is available on Amazon.

Email: contact@fromevalleyvoice.co.uk

fromevalleyvoice

April, 2021

n NEWS A TEACHING assistant who always wanted to write a children’s book has seen her dream become a reality, after writing it during lockdown.

Helen Issacs, who lives in Winterbourne Down and works at Elm Park Primary school in Winterbourne, grew up in Fishponds and Downend before going to London to do a teaching degree.

Her book, called Allotment Fun, is aimed at three to five-year-old children and is illustrated by Tim Burgess, an artist who lives in Winterbourne and went to Elm Park Primary school himself.

Helen said: “Allotment Fun is about a little girl who has lots of fun growing all sorts of things on her allotment.

"Working in education for many years, I've found that young children love the excitement of growing things, even something as simple as cress or sunflowers.

"Being involved with nature is very good for all of us, it really helps our well-being. And who knows, growing things as a young child might just instil a life-long love of growing and gardening, which has got to be a

21

Teaching assistant tells her story to a new audience

Helen Isaacs

Allotment Fun

Tim Burgess

good thing!”

Helen intended to sign up for a writing course first, but her husband encouraged her to take the plunge and just start her book.

Her own allotment was a source of inspiration.

Helen said: “I find that I can just switch off from everything else and be completely 'in the moment', even when I'm doing the most basic jobs! Like the little girl in the book, I have

triumphs and disasters, but I have fun along the way!”

Tim, who works under the banner Wild Tales Illustration, said: “My work is drawn traditionally, primarily using inks. I then use digital techniques to colour the images.

"Creating artwork for a children’s book has always been a dream of mine, and I am proud

to say I have now achieved it. I hope people get as much enjoyment from the story as I had drawing it.”

Allotment Fun is published by Bumblebee Books, the children’s section of Olympia Publishers.

It’s available directly from the publishers or from large online booksellers.

Poetry collection AN author has told his powerful story of personal loss in his first book of poems called Heart Stones.

Andy Cowell, who originally lived in Iron Acton and now lives in Yate, lost his partner to cancer 15 years ago when their children were aged three and four.

Andy said: “I initially thought of writing the book as a story, a piece of fiction - I always had this story inside me. It’s an experience I share with other single parents who’ve experienced a bereavement and what it means on a day-to-day basis.”

Andy decided to write a series of 53 poems as a linear story, so they can be read either in sequence or individually.

He said: “I’m interested in poetry as a way of expressing things in a profound way, and you can use language which is a bit mysterious or has hidden meanings to it.”

“One of the poems is called ‘Puddles’. We were out for a walk with a few friends and playing with the dogs, and I overheard the children and their friends having a conversation.

"They just chucked in things like ‘why did mum die’ to their friends, ‘did mum have a dog’, and then suddenly ‘what’s for tea?’

So I used this metaphor of jumping in and out of puddles, as their conversation was jumping in and out about their mum and everyday things.”

Andy originally worked in IT but later retrained in commercial law, becoming self-employed to work flexibly while supporting his children.

When the pandemic hit, most of his work disappeared, and he started writing in earnest.

Heart Stones is published by Olympia and can be ordered from most bookshops.

Got News? Call Richard 0n 01454 800 120

Email: contact@fromevalleyvoice.co.uk

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fromevalleyvoice

April, 2021

23

n NEWS

Mums get together to help charities hit by COVID-19

Ami Bowden, Sam Kenny and Tracey Sidall on their fancy dress fundraising walks. Pictures: Rich McD THREE mums have taken to the streets to raise money for charities that have been struggling during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Ami Bowden, of Thornbury, first linked up with her friends from Yate, Sam Kenny and Tracey Sidall, in December, before the latest lockdown started, for a 5km walk for the charity Walking With the Wounded, which helps veterans find employment.

They raised over £400 and were so inspired that they decided to set up a fundraising group which would support a different charity every month for a whole year.

Ami said: “During all the lockdowns we felt as if we wanted to give something back to all the charities that are suffering through these hard times.

"Once we started going on our walks dressed up we were amazed by the amount of people

that approached us saying how lovely it is and how it just made them smile, it made our day.

"We have all chosen charities that are close to our hearts.”

In January, the mums did a 50 mile walk for Maggie’s Cancer Hospices, raising £230, and in February they raised £376 for Refuge, the charity supporting victims of domestic violence.

In March they supported the Bourne Christian Project by completing a virtual Lands End

to John O’ Groats challenge, raising £532 as the Voice went to press.

In April they will be doing a 30 day yoga challenge.

Every week they do two walks in fancy dress.

The team have managed to get sponsorship from James Ball Cars, the company run

by Chipping Sodbury’s Mayor James Ball, which has helped with the cost of their costumes.

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fromevalleyvoice

24

April, 2021

n LETTERS

Resident Maureen Allen spoke out about the dangers of traffic in Trench Lane, Winterbourne, last month

overtake.

People were in too much of a hurry to get to or from work.

I compiled a video of the dangerous drivers, which you can view online at youtu.be/ PQV4WXmeaLA. I've reported all of them to the police and I know they were all contacted with a warning, a fixed penalty or prosecution.

But when l have to ride along there again, when people return to their workplaces I'm sure I'll have more incidents.

James Taylor

Appalling driving on Trench Lane

More memories of Tom Walker

YOUR article about Trench Lane (Voice, March) struck a nerve with me.

Before lockdown I had to cycle along it regularly, as it's the shortest way to my place of work, but the appalling standard of some drivers was terrifying.

I'd be surprised to have a ride along there without a dangerous

TOMMY Walker became friends with grandparents through the Salvation Army, which had a hall at the top of Clyde Road until 1960.

My grandmother would always have a meal for him at their home in Church Road.

He had turned to the Salvation Army for help, as he was having a hard time for being a conscientious objector. He was advised by the

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cycle everywhere within a fivemile radius of Frampton Cotterell and collected more money than anyone else in the 10 Army halls around Bristol.

Sunday mornings would start a march from the Army hall, with the band playing, for an outdoor service at The Spot in Woodend Road, followed by three services, morning afternoon and evening. At that time in Frampton there were seven pubs and seven churches.

How times have changed.

David Tovey (grandson of Bob Tovey) A photo of Tom Walker taken by Reece Winstone in 1956 Army officer to go to war as a stretcher bearer - for his bravery he was awarded the medals that can be seen pinned on his coat in the January edition of the Frome Valley Voice.

My granddad Bob Tovey in his younger days also turned to the Salvation Army for help, for drinking and gambling. He joined and became a uniformed senior soldier. Once a year he would

TOM Walker, his brother and sisterin-law lived across Court Road from me.

I remember back in the 60s he was on the BBC being interviewed

by Angela Rippon where he was living, by the viaduct.

She was sat down by the side of him and she kept scratching herself because of fleas – I can still see her, as plain as day!

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Email: contact@fromevalleyvoice.co.uk

fromevalleyvoice

April, 2021

25

n COMMUNITY NEWS AFTER months of conducting all our activities online, we are preparing for the first event actually held at Winterbourne Medieval Barn this year.

The Woodland Wonderland family outdoor activity on Wednesday April 14 will involve getting messy, so please dress for the weather and a bit of mud!

We’ll plant mini terrariums, create hanging mobiles for your garden, and make elf and fairy doors for our woodland friends.

Social distancing will be in place, so family groups need to pre-book their chosen arrival slot between 10am and 3pm.

Car parking and toilets are available and we will be serving tea, coffee, juice, and sweet treats.

Tickets must be pre-booked.

Covid restrictions will prevent any Easter egg hunt in the grounds this year, but there are still online things for families to do.

Easter craft packs can be posted out for families to enjoy in the holidays They must be ordered online before April 1.

The Barn's YouTube channel has free videos to help you hold your

Barn prepares to host first event of the year A spooncarving workshop could be the first indoor event at Winterbourne Medieval Barn this year own family medieval dinner party, or have a go at medieval dancing.

Our monthly Tuesday Talks will be online until we can fully re-open the Barn. They need to be prebooked, and full details are on the Barn website.

Our next outdoor event will be an early birdsong guided walk and breakfast, on Saturday May 8 at

Gardens reopen TWO gardens in Iron Acton will open to visitors again this year as coronavirus restrictions are lifted.

Algars Manor and Algars Mill, in Station Road, will hold an open day on April 25 under the National Garden Scheme.

The gardens, on the banks of the River Frome, have been opening to the public under the scheme for more than 60 years, but last year all events were cancelled due to the first lockdown.

The open day lasts from 1pm until 5pm. Entrance for both gardens costs £7, with children free, but must be booked in advance online at ngs.org.uk, where details of other gardens involved in the scheme can also be found.

Funds raised from the entry fee go to support charities.

8am. A walk of around an hour and a half, with naturalist Ed Drewitt, will be followed by breakfast in the barn grounds.

It is recommended for ages 12-plus.

Let us know your dietary requirements when you book, and we will email a week before the event to let you know what to

expect on the day with regards to the latest covid guidelines.

Later in May we plan to host our first event inside the barn, a spoon-carving workshop, where you can spend a fun and relaxed day learning to carve a beautiful and functional wooden spoon.

The event on May 22, from 10am to 5pm, will be for over-18s only, with tools, materials and lunch included.

We intend to run this sociallydistanced course in the barn, but if restrictions don’t allow indoor activity by then, it will be outside.

We’ll email a week before to let you know what to expect on the day. Numbers are very limited.

You can book all our events.

Book early via the website www. winterbournebarn.org.uk and find updates on our Facebook page.

Louise Harrison

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Making Secure Plans for Uncertain Futures Please feel free to call us during Email: contact@fromevalleyvoice.co.uk office hours on: 0117 952 0698

fromevalleyvoice

26

April, 2021

n COMMUNITY NEWS Floral friends of Frampton

Winterbourne Down Carnival update

SPRING is definitely springing, as these pictures from the Park show.

The recent warmer weather has encouraged the daffodils and crocuses to come into bloom and even the trees are starting to blossom!

We have recently refurbished the Gateway by the traffic lights on the Bristol Road, by replacing some of the older plants with wallflowers, forget-me-nots and veronica.

Together with the daffodils they make for a colourful welcome to the village.

It takes time, effort and funds to maintain the planting around the village benefiting the local community, the environment, and the wildlife.

If you would like to help there are various ways in which you can do so, from maintaining or replenishing planters to sponsoring a gateway.

If you can help in any way, we’d love to hear from you: please email us at floralfriendsofframpton@gmail.com.

WITH the Winterbourne Down Carnival not being held this year, the committee are keen to remain in the community's eye and are planning some events and initiatives.

Over the May Day bank holiday weekend and week, the committee are busy preparing a village walk, focusing on historical buildings and features in and around Winterbourne Down.

Families will be able to follow the walk using their smartphones, by scanning QR Codes at the various points of interest.

Final details will be available on our new website, winterbournedowncarnival.co.uk, and our Facebook page – search for wdcarnival.

We are also in the process of setting up a 'virtual fair', which will give local organisations and businesses the opportunity to promote themselves online under the auspices of the carnival.

We have already contacted supporters from previous years, but if other potential stall holders would like to take advantage of this initiative then please contact us by messaging our Facebook inbox or emailing winterbournedowncarnival@gmail.com.

Finally, the committee is hoping to be able to install somewhere in the village a 'chatty bench'.

The idea behind this is that people will use the bench to meet others for a chat, socially distanced of course.

This is particularly beneficial to those who may be struggling with the isolation that these strange times have forced upon us.

John Turner

Steve's films help families to mourn A CAMERAMAN is helping grieving families to mourn their loved ones by providing live streaming services during the national lockdown.

With current coronavirus restrictions meaning that only 30 people can attend a funeral, Bristol Memorial Woodlands owner Chris Baker enlisted the help of local specialist Steve Haines to provide professional streaming services.

Steve, from Bristol Projector Hire, now films, streams and provides DVDs and You Tube videos to anyone unable to attend an event at the venue in Alveston.

Steve said: “When Chris approached me to help at the woodlands, live streaming wasn’t really anything I had ever done before. Since

then I have streamed over 60 funerals and helped people be a part of what is often a very important and meaningful moment in their lives.

“I set up a camera on the balcony of the

chapel at Memorial Woodlands meaning I capture the celebrant, the coffin and any speakers. I also set up another camera at the front of the chapel to capture the coffin coming in, guests arriving and people lighting candles.

“All music during the service is also transmitted, we even had a funeral last week where some family members played the viola and violin and others sang so that was lovely to capture."

Steve also provides families with a DVD of the service they can pass to anyone who was not able to watch the live stream.

He said: “This is without a doubt the most rewarding job I have ever done. I’m moved by every funeral I attend and I truly hope it makes a difference to people in a very difficult time.”

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fromevalleyvoice

April, 2021

27

n COMMUNITY NEWS

Village Action: Time for a walk PUT a spring in your step, don suitable footwear and venture forth to enjoy the many wonderful walks in our villages and the lovely surrounding countryside.

Want some ideas or guidance? You can find many delightful local walks, with clear directions, maps and photographs, on the website of Village Action, a community group which is voluntarily organised by residents.

You could print any of these or it can be handy to follow a walk on your mobile phone.

You will find a choice of 17 different circular walks in and around Frampton Cotterell and Coalpit Heath, with distances ranging between 2.6 miles and 4 miles.

These walks start and finish at, or very near, a café, pub or community centre, which can be very convenient for refreshments and facilities (during open times).

In addition, if you scroll down, there are four booklets with a variety of walks giving a greater range of distances between 1 and 18 miles. Just click on a booklet to reveal its contents.

All four booklets include photographs, maps, descriptions plus some interesting and fascinating historical notes.

The Frome Valley Walkway (total 18 miles) and the Dramway (total 9 miles) are both linear

A view on the Frampton river Frome walk walks, which can be walked in sections on different occasions – or all at once for the more energetic!

The Heritage Walks and the Hatters’ Trails contain 12 circular walks between them and include alternative routes suitable for child buggies. These walks range between 0.8 miles and 5.7 miles. Two intriguing “detective” walks

were especially written for children but are enjoyed by all ages. There are three routes particularly suited to those who are less mobile and for wheelchair users. These two booklets are packed with local historical gems and photographs, old and new. In addition, the Hatters’ Trails have fascinating details of the hatting industry that once thrived in both Frampton Cotterell and Watley’s End. There are printed booklets of Hatters’ Trails, and a few Heritage Walks, available from Village Action for £1 each.

Be aware that parts of a walk may change slightly over time, for example a stile might be replaced by a kissing gate, a path moved to one side to accommodate farming needs, or changed bus numbers, but the basic route should still be easy to follow.

Whilst enjoying these walks, please be careful and follow the Countryside Code, including leaving gates as you find them, parking carefully, following paths, controlling dogs and leaving no trace of your visit.

You can find the walks online at villageaction. org.uk/village-action-activities/village-walks.

Jen Dunford Village Action

EASTER @ZION UNITED CHURCH

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Join us in an Easter EXTRAVAGANZA 

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Easter hunt with (prizes!)

Make your own EASTER GARDEN (each entry gets prize!)

Make a woolly pom-pom and help us Or bring a posy and

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the Easter Den!

help us decorate the

BUT EASTER ISN’T JUST FUN and NEW LIFE...

This year particularly we remember all we’ve lost.

So write a prayer or tie a dark ribbon onto our bunting as we remember a year of loss and tears.

To drop off your Easter Gardens/ PomPoms/ Flowers/ Ribbons and to collect prizes and other Easter treats and freebies.... Pop over to the Easter Den beside Zion Church (with Covid Regs) WE’LL BE THERE WITH TREATS GALORE! Maundy Thursday (after school: 3-4.45pm) Good Friday: 10-12 noon Easter Saturday: 1-3pm Easter Day: 10-12 noon

For more info on how to take part, email zoe@ or kate@ zuchurch.co.uk OR check out ‘Zion’s Pioneering Page’ on Facebook THE DEN is open 24/7 for reflection and prayer All Digital Easter Services and Reflections available via: www.zuchurch.co.uk If you are interested in action: consider supporting the Together4Fromeside (churches) as we appeal to raise emergency funds for local food, fuel and flooring needs... https://www.justgiving.com/campaign/foodfuelfloors

Got News? Call Richard 0n 01454 800 120

Email: contact@fromevalleyvoice.co.uk

fromevalleyvoice

28

April, 2021

n THOUGHT FOR THE MONTH

This Easter follows a year of ongoing darkness IN CS Lewis’s The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe we find Narnia in an extended period of winter because of the power of the White Queen.

Gradually as Aslan, Lucy, Peter, Susan and Edmund begin to join together and bring their allies together, the deep snow of winter begins to melt, as spring and then summer occurs for the first time in decades.

This last year might very much have felt like a long period of winter. In March, we marked the anniversary of the first lockdown: since then we have seen 126,000 deaths in the UK and 2.66 million across the world linked to COVID-19, as of mid-March.

Gradually though, winter is beginning to turn into spring, here in the UK and many parts of the world, although other countries across the globe are still very much in the depths of winter in terms of

the Church, Jesus is the being who prays for each of us, cares for all of us and the one who gave up his life for all.

This past year, this year of ongoing darkness, might have led to many people wondering if there really is a God: why could ‘he’ allow so much death and destruction in the world around us?

For Christians, we recognise that even Christ went through periods of darkness, especially in the days leading up to his crucifixion on the first Good Friday.

The lives we live today echo some of the experiences that Jesus faced two millennia ago.

In a famous poem called Footprints, throughout most of life there are two sets of footprints in the sand – the writer's and God’s. But at "the saddest and most troublesome times…there was only one". God tells the writer that when there was only one set

the pandemic.

We are seeing around us the early signs of spring appearing. In nature we are seeing daffodils and other flowers popping up in the bare soil.

In terms of COVID-19, we are seeing increasing numbers of people being vaccinated each day, with 28 million people in England having received their first dose by March 23, the anniversary of the first lockdown.

We are gradually seeing a relaxation of lockdown rules, and I am sure that many of us are looking forward to June 21 (at the earliest), when most legal rules will be withdrawn.

In the Church, we are also seeing signs of new life at this time of year.

On April 4 we celebrate the feast of Easter, the day when the Church declares its praise at the resurrection of Jesus Christ. For

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of footprints, "it was then that I carried you".

This Eastertide I want to assure you that at the most difficult times in life, when you are facing your own period of winter, God is carrying you through it all.

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April, 2021

fromevalleyvoice

29

n COMMUNITY NEWS Frampton Cotterell WI WE’VE set up a special Zoom speaker for this March, to help inspire and motivate members for brighter times ahead! The talk will take place online on March 30, at 7.30pm for an 8pm start.

Borough Belles WI member Katherine Blackler (pictured) has a rather unusual job as a professional organiser and declutterer. She will be sharing practical tips and tricks to how to organise your home, your work or your life as well as an insight on what it's like to be a professional organiser.

Any potential new members out there who wish to join us are very welcome – please just PM (message) your email address to us via Facebook, and we will send you the Zoom invite nearer the time.

Looking forward to April and May, we may be able to meet up somehow, even if that’s outside. Fingers crossed – please keep an eye on our Facebook page for details.

As soon as things get back to normal we will be able to re-introduce a series of new meetings, talks and social events for the remainder of the year. Another summer picnic is certainly on the cards, for example, some time after the end of June, if guidelines allow.

Under normal circumstances, visitors and new members are welcome to our monthly meetings at St Peter’s Hall on School Road at 7.45pm, on the fourth Tuesday of the month.

Special interest groups meet separately, including a book club, craft group, choir and our skittles and darts teams.

In the meantime, if you’re interested in joining us please let us know and get in touch via our Facebook page – search for FramptonCottWI to find out more.

Coalpit Heath WI THE improvement in the weather and the photos of all the spring flowers, particularly those in the community garden next to the Manor Hall, are all helping everyone to feel more uplifted.

We are hopeful that shortly more guidance will be given on how and when we can safely start up meetings: something that we are all looking forward to.

Meanwhile, the committee have continued to keep in touch with members with the monthly newsletter which, according to members, "never disappoints".

Our thanks go to Leigh Smith, who I’m sure never realised quite how much she was taking on when she volunteered for the task of editor.

The committee have also been busy assembling a 'meeting in a bag' ready for April, and these will shortly be delivered.

As the raffle at Christmas was so popular, a raffle ticket has been included this time for an Easter themed raffle.

This will be drawn after all the bags have been delivered. A beautiful Easter card (pictured) has also been included.

Any updates and further information will be on our Facebook page: search for @WICoalpitHeath.

Caroline Johnston

John Harris

079199 12966 01454 772 502 quarrygardens@hotmail.co.uk

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fromevalleyvoice

30

n SPORT

Cricket is back

Tennis set to reopen WINTERBOURNE Tennis Club has been a hive of activity since the announcement that outdoor tennis can resume on March 29.

Junior coaching will commence on April 3. This has been an enormously successful programme and the number of kids coming for lessons is still growing.

The ever-popular two-week Easter Holiday camp will be running from April 5 to 16. The first week is almost fully booked.

Email imedhamrouni@msn.com for more details.

Before the latest lockdown, WTC entered three junior teams in the Avon League. They achieved some good results and we hope that they can continue their success in the Avon Junior Summer league. There has also been an increase in some of the older Juniors participating in in the Avon Adult Winter and Summer League, giving them invaluable experience for the future.

Congratulations to Zechariah Hamrouni, who is currently number 5 seed in the country for under 14s.

On April 3, there will be a back to Tennis Open Day for adults and children, starting at 2pm and in line with covid restrictions. It is free and people of all abilities are welcome. If interested, please register online at wtc.org.uk, where you can also find details of all club tennis.

At the club’s virtual AGM in March, WTC said goodbye and a big thank-you to interim chair, Jo Lougheed, who took over the role just before lockdown last year. Our new chair will be Jody Cockcroft, who has been a long-standing committee member.

Elsa Looij

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CRICKET clubs are gearing up for the new season when recreational team sports start again from March 29.

Winterbourne Cricket Club WINTERBOURNE Cricket Club have been working hard to make sure we hit the ground running.

We are pleased to be able to confirm that training sessions will start in April: Monday U13 Boys training, 5.30-6.30pm; U15 Boys training, 6.30-7.30pm. Tuesday: Senior training, 6-8pm. Wednesday: U9/ U11’s training, 6-7pm; U11/U13 Girls training, 7-8pm. Thursday: Senior Training, 6-8pm.

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For more information, contact our chairman Bob Vickery at vickeryb1@outlook.com or secretary Liz Bracey at lizbracey@hotmail. com.

Bob Vickery Frampton Cotterell Cricket Club FRAMPTON Cotterell Cricket Club are pleased with how the newly installed drainage is coming along at The Park.

We are set to play our first 1st XI home game on the main field in mid-May, with training starting, weather-permitting, on April 6.

We are always on the lookout for new players of any age and ability.

Dynamos and All Stars are back for 2021. What better year to get your children into the wonderful game? We look forward to welcoming you to The Fram.

Senior club contact: Luke on 07369 255499. Junior contact: Alex on 07811 265056.

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