Frome Valley Voice August 2019

fromevalleyvoice www.fromevalleyvoice.co.uk

July, 2019 Issue 72

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

Finishing school on a high Crowds enjoy Frampton Festival NEW attractions, great music, fantastic fireworks and sunny weather drew big crowds to this year’s Frampton Festival.

PAGE 5

Winterbourne Academy's school year finished with an arts festival and a prom for Year 11 pupils at Tortworth Court. Pages 10-11

Farm homes plan goes ahead PLANS to build more than 200 homes at a Coalpit Heath farm have been approved, over series of objections from neighbours.

Barratt Homes has been given permission to build 204 houses, with a further 11 self-build homes also in the pipeline at on land east of Park Lane next to Woodlands Farm, which was once home to author Dick King-Smith.

Objections were raised over road safety, a lack

of local infrastructure, loss of green land and the impact on wildlife, as well as concerns that a path leading into the site could become a “hotspot” for antisocial behaviour.

But the housebuilder had already won an appeal over South Gloucestershire Council’s refusal of its outline proposals and the authority has now given the developer the green light.

Full story: Page 3

Traffic light change warning CHANGES to one of the busiest road junctions serving Winterbourne will move its pollution and congestion problems elsewhere, it has been claimed.

PAGE 8

Waste dumped AN investigation is underway to find out who dumped large amounts of waste on a rural bridleway.

PAGE 9

4 Flaxpits Lane, Winterbourne, BS36 1JX - Tel: 01454 252 140 Email: info@aj-homes.co.uk

4 Flaxpits Lane, Winterbourne, BS36 1JX - Tel: 01454 252 140 Email: info@aj-homes.co.uk

fromevalleyvoice

2

fromevalleyvoice www.fromevalleyvoice.co.uk

July, 2019

FromeValley Voice contacts Richard Drew

Ken MCcormick

01454 800 120 contact@fromevalleyvoice.co.uk For advertising enquiries: sales@fromevalleyvoice.co.uk

contact@fromevalleyvoice.co.uk

Publisher

Editor

Fi Picton

Journalist

contact@fromevalleyvoice.co.uk

September deadline

Your views

Our September edition will be going to print on August 28. To ensure your news or letter is included, please contact us by August 21. Advertisers are also asked to contact us by the same date.

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

Viaduct

Florist

Flowers for all occasions Still open at the Viaduct 114a Badminton Road Coalpit Heath BS36 2SZ 07730 660026

claireisaac@btinternet.com Located within Viaduct Nursery

Frampton Garage South Glos Ltd. Tel: 01454 777841

Your local choice for vehicle repairs and maintenance

xt here

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.

A member of the

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

Tracking £24.95+VAT Diagnostics scan £24.95+VAT Free Courtesy Car We also do; Air-con services and regas Electrical repairs Diagnostics Engine work Camber and caster alignment Light bulbs and wipers

Direct Funeral for £1545 Complete Funeral for £3459 Established independent Female Funeral Director

8 Badminton Road, Downend BS16 6BQ

Home visits welcome

Tel: 01454 777841 6 The Causeway, Coalpit Heath, Bristol, BS36 2PD www.framptongarage.com Email: framptongaragesouthglos@hotmail.com

To advertise, contact Richard on 01454 800 120

Please call: 0117 9564796 24-hr service 7 days a week

www.jamiesonfunerals.com

Email: contact@fromevalleyvoice.co.uk

fromevalleyvoice

July, 2019

3

n NEWS

200 homes for Babe author’s farm PLANNERS have approved more than 200 homes at a Coalpit Heath farm once owned by children’s author Dick KingSmith.

It follows a successful appeal to the Planning Inspectorate last year by Barratt Homes against South Gloucestershire Council’s refusal of the outline proposals.

Strategic sites delivery committee members have now granted full permission for the development on land east of Park Lane next to Woodlands Farm, despite neighbours’ concerns about a potential rise in antisocial behaviour.

The writer lived there from 1948 to 1962 and the farm became the inspiration for many of Mr King-Smith’s books, including The Sheep-Pig, known to millions via the Oscarnominated film Babe.

Councillors approved the

204 houses, 35 per cent of them affordable, with the details of a further 11 self-build homes set to be the subject of subsequent applications.

Frampton Cotterell Parish Council and 16 residents objected to the scheme.

Ward councillor Claire Young told the committee on June 27 that neighbours feared an unofficial path between the development, to be named Blackberry Park, and recently built housing estate The Meads could become a “hotspot” for unruly youths.

She said: “Residents have already seen some antisocial behaviour with kids hanging around and they are worried this could become a hotspot. It was not intended as a thoroughfare but it will become one between the two developments.”

She said neighbours were

Green land at Woodlands Farm

Dick King-Smith on Woodlands Farm. also worried that the design of the housing for Blackberry Park would not “mirror” existing homes.

Planning officer Helen Winsall said objections to the plans also included road safety concerns, a lack of local infrastructure, loss of green land and the impact on wildlife.

But she said: “The layout and design of the homes is acceptable and their location is reasonable. It provides smaller houses, and while it’s different from the housing already there on The Meads, it does not have a significant enough relationship with those dwellings to merit having the same design.

A report to members said paths into The Meads were "considered desirable to increase connectivity between the site for walkers and cyclists, particularly

those that wish to use the public open spaces", adding: “It is noted that there are two gaps in the hedgerow on the northern boundary that appear to be currently being used as informal access to the site.

“The police designing-outcrime officer has not raised any concerns regarding antisocial behaviour in respect of these accesses.”

Last year, planning inspector Nick Fagan overturned the council’s decision to reject Barratt Homes’ outline application, ruling that the area's need for housing outweighed the loss of agricultural land and cultural associations with Mr King-Smith.

By Adam Postans, Local Democracy Reporting Service Planning blueprint attacked: Page 20

Solution Focused Hypnotherapy ~ ‘Exploring a brighter future’ Specialising in reducing stress/ anxiety, improving sleep, confidence, breaking unwanted habits and more

m: 07855 054688

e: info@wendyjameshypnotherapy.co.uk w: www.wendyjameshypnotherapy.co.uk

Got News? Call Richard 0n 01454 800 120

Email: contact@fromevalleyvoice.co.uk

fromevalleyvoice thornburyvoice

28 4

April, July, 2017 2019

■ n NEWS NEWS

Food growing on the Thieves steal from menu at Thornbury frontmeeting drive open

LUKE HALL MP MP for Thornbury, Yate and the surrounding villages

POLICE want to trace this man and van in connection with a ANYONE interested in producing their own vegetables, fruit and salad in Frampton istheft invited to an openCotterell. meeting of the Grow Your Own Food Group in The man, wearing an Thornbury.

England 2005-07 football shirt, knowledge about food gardening and The group was set up to share and theheld white Mercedes van, last year two successful open meetings, which resulted in new which appears members joining.to have a nonUK plate, CCTV With thewere startfilmed of the on new growing season, the exercise is being in the vicinity of the theft fromplace in The Chantry, Castle Street, on repeated, with the event taking the drive March of a house in Rockside Thursday, 30, from 7.30pm-9pm.

Gardens.

A radiator was stolen from the driveway on the afternoon of June 20 and Avon and Somerset police have called on anyone who was in the area at the time or thinks they recognise the man pictured to call them on 101, quoting crime reference number 5219 138 432.

Information can also be given anonymously to Crimestoppers by calling 0800 555 111 or via their Anonymous Online Form.

Police have also reported cold callers in Coalpit Heath knocking on doors, telling residents they are ex-offenders and trying to sell them poor quality goods. People are urged to call the police if they are unhappy or feel intimidated and not to allow any unknown and unexpected visitor inside.

A CONCERT in Thornbury by Cornucopia, a quartet of professional horn players, will raise money for the town’s Armstrong Hall development project.

Music by Mozart - and his son - and Haydn will feature in the performance in the Cossham Hall, Chapel Street, on Friday, March 31.

OPEN IN The 19th century piece Bird of theWESTBURY-ON-TRYM Forest will also be played, with the evening closing with Gordon Carr’s Chinese Songs.

FRAMPTON COTTERELL Cornucopia will join up with local flute player Nicki Woodward MORE SCHOOLS (Barnes), baritone Niall Hoskin and pianist StevenOPENING HollasSOON for the concert, tickets for which cost £12, with concessions available.

They are on sale in Thornbury Town Hall, High Street, or by To book a phoning 01454 412272.

FR

Horns of plenty in fund raising concert

by Cornucopia quartet

The UK’s Premier Rock School

EE TRiAL SESSiO

N

or for more inform ation, email: matt@the rockproject.com Or call: 0800 084 2216

Advertise your business in Thornbury Voice Contact 01454 800 120

Fashion Show

Write to Luke at: Luke Hall MP, 26 High Street, Chipping Sodbury, BS37 6AH e: luke.hall.mp@parliament.uk w: lukehall.org.uk

Wednesday 14th June 2017 Armstrong Hall, Thornbury Tickets available from chloe-tony@hotmail.co.uk Fabulous cut price bargains from quality high street labels.

NG GUITAR BASS • DRUMS • SINGING YEAR OLDS are •available for purchase on FOR the 7-18 night.

BOOKI All items OR NOW F R! Cash or card only please.

BE SEPTEM

Promoted by Luke Hall MP, House of Commons, SW1A 0AA.

www.therockproject.com SD Fashion Show Co Ltd.

Toadvertise, advertise,contact contactRichard Richardon on01454 01454800 800120 120 To

Email: Email:contact@fromevalleyvoice.co.uk contact@thornburyvoice.co.uk

fromevalleyvoice

July, 2019

5

n NEWS

Frampton Festival pulls in the crowds NEW attractions, great music, fantastic fireworks and sunny weather drew big crowds to this year’s Frampton Festival.

The event had to be moved from its traditional home on Centenary Field due to restricted access for large vehicles after a wall collapsed.

Instead it took place at the Park, at the Crossbow playing fields on School Road. But the change of venue seemed to make little difference to those who went along and had a great day.

The event on July 13 opened with the Thornbury Brass Band and the music continued all day, including 1940's retro

cabaret duo The Good Night Sweethearts, local singer/songwriter Jodie Mellor and Hicktown Breakout, a Southern Rock band.

Bringing the event to a close and the audience to their feet was Elevation.

Steam engine rides were popular all day long, there were Punch and Judy shows and stalls, and circus workshops for children.

There was no outdoor church service or lighting of a beacon, because the Park had to be returned to pristine condition in time for a cricket match the following morning, but a ten minute firework display by Fire Magic finished the festival with a bang.

Committee member Ian Haddrell said:

Got News? Call Richard 0n 01454 800 120

“At this year’s festival there were 16 stalls in the field, some new attractions, great music, and to end the evening a fantastic firework display.

“The Frampton Festival would like to say a massive thank-you to all those who attended this great community event and for generously donating towards next year’s festival.

“The committee are extremely grateful to the parish council for their support and permitting the use of the Park, but we do hope that the festival can return to Centenary Field in 2020, which we consider to the established home of the Frampton Festival.”

Email: contact@fromevalleyvoice.co.uk

fromevalleyvoice

6

July, 2019

n NEWS

Boulders installed on village green as council tries to keep travellers away BOULDERS have been installed around the perimeter of Iron Acton village green at a cost of £3,000, in an attempt to deter travellers.

Fence posts have also been put around Latteridge Green, as the parish council tries to prevent future damage and waste dumping when the greens are occupied.

Travellers who arrived in April last year left a lot of rubbish and were using an adjacent field as a toilet, so a clean-up operation was needed before the May Day celebrations.

A consultation was started with villagers as to what preventative measures could be put in place.

This travellers again arrived just before the Easter weekend with a number of mobile homes, caravans and cars, and spread themselves across a large proportion of the green.

Paul Chapman, the parish councillor who has led a working party on the issue, said they involved the police and South Gloucestershire Council to serve notice requiring the travellers to leave, but because of the Easter Bank Holiday it could not be prepared until the following week.

He said: “In the meantime, South Glos council dropped off some rubbish bags which parish councillors asked the travellers to use, and they did. However, South Glos did not provide toilet facilities or access to water,

FREE inspections NO call-out fees

which resulted in there being defecation on the Green and a neighbouring footpath, and theft of water from taps in the gardens of private dwellings. There was also deliberate damage caused to the Green by fire.”

While the travellers moved on before the legal notice could be served, they left a pile of bin bags which cost the parish council £1,500 to have removed.

After a third camp by travellers at the end of May the parish council installed boulders from Wickwar quarry around the perimeter to deter and hamper attempts to drive on to the green.

Some can be moved temporarily to allow May Day-related vehicle movements. So far, there has been a mixed reaction from villagers.

Longer term options are now being investigated and Paul said the parish council was taking legal advice over the possibility of securing a High Court injunction which, if granted, would make it a criminal offence to set up camp on the green and enable anyone breaching it to be prosecuted.

Paul said: “It is a shame that we have to go to such lengths to protect our private property and it is to be hoped that South Glos council will in future provide sufficient sites for travellers passing through the county so that swift police action can be taken to remove such inappropriate unauthorised

Boulders are installed at Iron Acton Village Green encampments.”

A South Gloucestershire spokesperson said: “We have a responsibility to ensure the welfare of traveller communities passing through the district.

“This includes providing facilities for them to collect waste, and we will arrange to clean up a site once they have moved on, but it is not practical to provide water and toilet

facilities on our land or on that belonging to other authorities or private individuals.

“Work is being progressed to identify potential transit sites or temporary stopping places for Gypsies and Travellers. It is anticipated that proposals for this and other uses will be presented for consultation through the Council’s Local Plan in Winter 2019.”

We are specialists in: l Domestic re-roofs and repairs l Grp fibreglass flat roofing l Installation of fascia, soffits and guttering Call: 0117 9113864 Mobile: 07570 579238 Email: staydryroofing2000@yahoo.co.uk

To advertise, contact Richard on 01454 800 120

Email: contact@fromevalleyvoice.co.uk

fromevalleyvoice

July, 2019

7

n NEWS

Frampton Thunder takes to the track A SCHOOL engineering club has won two awards to finish its first year in style.

Children at Frampton Cotterell C of E Primary School designed and built a Greenpower Goblin electric car, which they raced at Renishaw New Mills, in Wottonunder-Edge, against other cars from schools around the region.

The team of 12 pupils from Year 6 pupils worked all year on the car, which they named Frampton Thunder.

With minimal adult assistance they built and tested the kit car, then designed and built the bodywork, which is made mainly out of recycled materials.

The youngsters also designed a logo which they incorporated into both the car and their co-ordinated team kit, produced by Initially Yours in Hambrook.

To make all of this possible they first had to write to local businesses to raise more than £1,600 in sponsorship.

Greenpower Education Trust is a UKbased charity which inspires young people around the world to excel in Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths through a unique challenge: to design, build and race an electric car. The Goblin electric car comes as a kit of parts, which the pupils have to

assemble and then add their own custom bodywork.

Retired engineer Steve Harrison, who set up the club, said: "The pupils learned valuable skills not only in science and engineering but also design and finance.

Above all, they agree that they have got better at working as a team as the year went on, and

CAR & VAN HIRE

they all had great fun at the Race Day itself.

"The year culminated in the event at Renishaw where, against twenty other teams, Frampton Thunder won the awards for Best Presented Team and Best Portfolio. They all feel justifiably proud and have set a high bar for next year’s team!"

e r i H e l c i h e V % ODUCTION

10 OFF KEEPING BRISTOL MOVING SINCE 1979

www.pearcebros.com

ON PR IS ADVERT OF TH ly

ers on

ustom

New c

TE DEPOTS AT YA D N A AVONMOUTH

Interested in contract hire, purchasing or long-term rental? Please contact Dave on: 07990 002247 or Email: david.blamire@pearcebros.co.uk

AUTORENTALS LTD

Choose a vehicle from our extensive range of self-drive cars, people carriers, refrigerated and regular vans, lutons and minibuses…

C AR & VAN HIRE • CONTR AC T HIRE • SALES • FLEET

Call LISA or LORRAINE on: 01454 333751/333753 Email: yate.hire@pearcebros.co.uk Got News? Call Richard 0n 01454 800 120 Car & Van Hire A5 flyer Yate.ind1 1

Email: contact@fromevalleyvoice.co.uk 9/2/16 18:37:46

fromevalleyvoice

8

July, 2019

n NEWS

Pollution plan for Hambrook junction

School stops for summer, learning doesn’t have to Kumon’s maths and English study programmes work throughout the summer to ensure your child is constantly learning and developing their ability.

To unlock your child’s potential, contact your local Instructor for a free assessment.

Yate Study Centre Kate Woodrow 07966 572736 kumon.co.uk Fees vary. Please refer to your local study centre.

To advertise, contact Richard on 01454 800 120

BANS on some turns at the Hambrook traffic lights to fight pollution and congestion will simply move the same problems elsewhere, it has been claimed.

South Gloucestershire Council is under pressure from the government to cut levels of toxic nitrogen dioxide at the junction of the A4174 Avon Ring Road and the B4058 Bristol Road between Frenchay and Winterbourne, which are currently above the legal air pollution limit.

From August 11, it will introduce restrictions at the junction under powers known as an Experimental Traffic Order, which will run for up to 18 months before the council decides whether to make it permanent.

Although movements for vehicles approaching the ring road from Winterbourne will not be affected, in the other direction vehicles coming from Downend and Emersons Green will no longer be able to turn right towards Hambrook and Winterbourne.

And traffic approaching the ring road from Frenchay will be banned from turning right or going straight ahead and will only be able to turn left towards the M32: Winterbourne-bound drivers will have go around the roundabout at the motorway junction and back along the eastbound ring road.

The council says the restrictions “will allow east and westbound traffic to flow more efficiently and help reduce queues” and follow a government directive to improve air quality at the junction, where nitrogen dioxide exceeds national limits of 40 micrograms per cubic metre, “in the shortest time possible”.

The westbound bus lane from the traffic lights to the M32 junction will be removed but pedestrian and cycle crossings will be retained.

The council has apologised for “any inconvenience caused” to drivers and says a six-month public consultation on the changes, which are similar to those introduced during work in 2017-18 to replace the Bromley Heath Viaduct, will start once they are introduced.

In a joint statement

Winterbourne Parish Council’s Frenchay ward councillors – Adrian Collins, Paul Kembery, Charlie Watkins and Hugh Whatley – said they had long had issues with the “poor design” of the junction, with the phasing of the traffic lights too short on the B4058 and the junction was frequently blocked by ring road motorists.

The councillors said they understood why the order was being made but said: “The knock-on effect to Frenchay and surrounding areas in added congestion and vehicle emissions during the trial will anger many residents.”

They said the Bromley Heath Viaduct roadworks had led to “long queues of traffic from Downend towards Cleevewood Bridge” and warned this was likely to happen again.

The councillors said they had been told the option to go straight over towards Winterbourne from Frenchay may be tried during the experimental order period.

Almost all comments on the Voice’s Facebook pages raised concerns over the changes.

One reader said: “Traffic will be forced to travel further, there will be tailbacks at the M32 roundabout and pollution will increase. As we all know, these ‘temporary’ changes with consultation are a done deal.”

South Gloucestershire’s Green Party said delays to the Y4 bus route could “drive more people away from the very public transport we need to be getting them on” to tackle air pollution.

Council cabinet member for transport Steve Reade said: “Our traffic modelling has shown that the changes will allow east and westbound traffic on the ring road to flow more efficiently and help reduce queues, and that the removal of limited movements at the interchange will improve traffic flow for all vehicles.

“It is important to note that this is an experimental order that can be amended through time, so if we see a particular type of road user is negatively affected then the order can be adjusted.”

More information on the plan and consultation is available online at bit.ly/2M2Rno7.

Email: contact@fromevalleyvoice.co.uk

fromevalleyvoice

July, 2019

9

n NEWS

Bridleway blighted by illegal dumping THIS is the sight that faced a horse rider using a bridleway after a huge quantity of rubbish was dumped.

South Gloucestershire Council has had to do a clean up operation after the fly-tipping incident in Frampton Cotterell.

Andrea Cox was out riding her horse on a bridleway on Frampton End Road when she discovered the waste, which had been left half way down the track.

Andrea said: “It was 3 mattresses and other rubbish.

"Then once we arrived at the river at the Iron Acton end, the whole track was blocked by metal cabinets and tyres, lots of containers, part of a wooden table top and metal shelving and lots of other items.”

Andrea reported the find to the council.

A spokesperson from South Gloucestershire Council said: “We were informed of three

instances of fly-tipping at Hoovers Lane and Frampton End lane in Frampton Cotterell and our StreetCare team attended the scene and cleared the waste the same day.

“We take fly-tipping extremely seriously and we will now begin an investigation to identify the perpetrator and bring them to justice.

"Anyone who has information relating to this incident, or any other incident of fly-tipping are encouraged to complete our web form or telephone the StreetCare helpdesk."

The web form can be found at southglos.gov.uk/flytipping and Streetcare can be reached on 01454 868000.

The council pursues prosecutions against all flytippers it identifies and recently secured a suspended sentence against a Yate man who dumped waste in the area.

Emergency Number: 07798 905337

Paul Willcox

KEEP IT IN YOUR MOBILE

Domestic Electrician and property maintenance

Lock Stuck

Electrical, decorating, carpentry, small plumbing, plastering and rendering, PAT testing and more. No job too small.

Efficient, friendly and reliable service

The complete door & window specialist

Call or email for a free, no obligation, quote

Locked Out? Need to replace or change your locks?

Mobile: 0782 499 6054 Home: 0117 9693061 Email: pwillcoxpropertymaintenance@outlook.com City and Guilds accredited NICEIC registered domestic electrician

■ Swift low cost emergency service to all home and commercial lock-outs ■ Non destructive entry methods gaining entry quickly and efficiently from the initial call ■ Keys or handbag stolen? Burgled? Need your locks changed or re-keying on a new home? Call us.

30%

ALSO: Low cost repair/replacement of uPVC ALUMINIUM WINDOW & DOOR: LOCKS, HINGES, HANDLES & MISTED UP/BROKEN DOWN DOUBLE GLAZED UNITS Full explanation and costs given before any works carried out. All work fully guaranteed. No call-out fee

OFF FOOD WITH THIS COUPON

valid from 1st August-8th September 2019 FOOD SERVED mon-fri 12-3/5-9 sat 9-4/5-9 sun 12-5/6-9

Call Dave on 07798 905337 www.thebristollocksmith.co.uk

Not valid in conjuction with Prosecco Lunch & Tuesday Steak Night Offers

Based locally in South Glos

(terms & conditions available on request)

the grapevine brasserie, st james place, mangotsfield, bristol bs16 9jb 0117 957 0614 info@grapevinebrasserie.co.uk | www.grapevinebrasserie.co.uk

Got News? Call Richard 0n 01454 800 120

and Barrels

FVV

Email: contact@fromevalleyvoice.co.uk

10

fromevalleyvoice

July, 2019

n NEWS

Academy ends the year on a high WINTERBOURNE Academy pupils ended the academic year by taking part in fundraising, performing in the school’s own arts festival and, for year 11s, enjoying a leavers’ prom.

During the arts festival, left, Year 7 and 10 pupils joined with the Young Blood Theatre Group to put on drama performances.

The Jazz Band Orchestra, String Group, Bourne Acapella and choir showed off their talents too, while the cast from the school production We Will Rock You also gave a performance.

In the evening there was an art and photography exhibition showcasing the work of the Year 11 students.

The next day, pupils dug out their weirdest and wackiest trousers to wear for Wrong Trousers Day, raising a total of £937 for critically ill children and babies at Bristol Children’s Hospital.

To advertise, contact Richard on 01454 800 120

Email: contact@fromevalleyvoice.co.uk

fromevalleyvoice

July, 2019

11

n NEWS

The prom, above and right, was held at Tortworth Court, with Year 11s celebrating the end of GCSEs by dressing to impress and arriving in an array of vehicles from Porsches and Ferraris to limos and classic cars.

There were speeches and awards for the prom king and queen. The prom king award went to Ethan Hunt, and the prom queen award to Abi Beaumont, for their hard work and positive attitude during their time at the school.

WINDOWS, FASCIAS, CONSERVATORIES AND ROOFS CON

NG IN ALISI SPECI IAN AND D R FS GUA S ROO GLAS

AZED LE GL DOUBINDOWS S W OOR ARY AND D MPOR

PVCu S ACEM OLID E SOIL S NT FASCIA S TACKS & CLAD GUTT DING ERIN SOFF G & ITS

REPL

S TORIE SERVA OSITE COMPORS O D Y OF T VARIE RS U COLO NS IG E & D S

L E CONT ADITIONA OR TR

R

WE S OOFING

ALL T PECIALIS YP E I INCLU ES OF ROO N DING F PITCH ING LONG ED & LIF FLAT R E RUBBER OOFIN G

sales@southernplasticlad.co.uk www.southernplasticlad.co.uk SHOWROOM OPEN MON - FRI 9am - 5pm SAT 9am - 12pm FREEPHONE 0800 542 6066 Unit 4 Ram Hill Business Park, Ram Hill, Coalpit Heath BS36 2TZ TELEPHONE 01454 777 732 Got News? Call Richard 0n 01454 800 120

Email: contact@fromevalleyvoice.co.uk

or l e be slim fwith

Slimming World MONDAY

Chipping Sodbury

Ridgewood Community Centre Station Road 3.30, 5.30 & 7.30pm Tel: Emma 07977 552958

Frampton Cotterell

WEDNESDAY

Yate

Yate leisure Centre Kennedy way 10.00am & 6.30pm Tel: Sue 07967 150283

Frampton Cotterell

5.30 & 7.30pm Watermore Primary School (Infants), Woodend Road, (Opposite the Brockeridge Centre) Tel: Jude 07968 426809

7.30pm - Frampton Cottrell C of E Primary School, Rectory Road, Frampton Cottrell Tel: Lisa 07815 759118

TUESDAY

St Nicholas Family Centre Chargrove Road 9.30am & 6.00pm Tel: Maria 07757 406442

Chipping Sodbury

Ridgewood Community Centre Station Road 9.00 & 11.00am Tel: Emma 07977 552958

THURSDAY

Abbotswood

Chipping Sodbury

Winterbourne

Ridgewood Community Centre Station Road 5.30pm Tel: Justine 07793 035047

Winterbourne

Coalpit Heath

9.30am & 11.30am The Greenfield Centre, Park Avenue, Winterbourne Tel: Frankie 07519 347243 5.30pm & 7.30pm The Greenfield Centre, Park Avenue, Winterbourne Tel: Frankie 07519 347243

Yate

Yate International Acedemy Sundridge Park 5.30 & 7.30pm Tel: Bonny 07926 583473

slimmingworld.co.uk 0344 897 8000

FRIDAY

9.30am The Manor Hall Tel: Lisa 07815759118 SATURDAY

Yate

Yate International Academy Sundridge Park 7.30, 9.30 & 11.30am Tel: Bonny 07926 583473

fromevalleyvoice

July, 2019

13

n NEWS

Dancers win bronze at world cup TWO dancers from a performing arts school in Winterbourne have returned from the Dance World Cup with two Bronze medals.

Milan Cacacie, from Yate, and Max Ilett, from Wottonunder-Edge, were among 6,000 dancers aged from five to 25 who competed in the event in Braga, Portugal, in June and July.

They were part of a Team England which won out over 54 other countries to come home as World Champions after winning a variety of different classes, recording their sixth Dance World Cup win.

Milan and Max are members of REDDS (Rhythm, Energy, Dance, Drama & Singing) School based at Winterbourne Community Centre in Watleys End Road, which was the only

school from the area to represent England.

The 19-year-olds' performances earned them medals in the Showdance Solo and HipHop Duo categories and they also earned a fifth placing in the Song and Dance Solo category.

Both are now studying dance, and are due to start three-year courses in London in September, Milan at Urdang Academy and Max at Bird College.

Milan has been dancing at REDDS since the age of 5 and Max at New Generation since he was 9.

REDDS principal Erin Cacacie, who is Milan's mum, said the dancers' medals represented a "massive achievement".

Music

Tudor

AT ACTON COURT

Sunday 15 September | 3pm | 1501 - A Musical Revolution performed by InEcho

In Echo perform music from the Odhecaton, the world’s first ever book of printed music, including pieces by the greatest composers of the age; sacred motets side-by-side with bawdy love songs full of fun and innuendo.

Tickets £20 | £18 concessions. Book online at actoncourt.com/events Come early and hear music students from the Bristol Conservatoire sing a melody of Latin texts old and new 2:40pm

Acton Court Latteridge Road Iron Acton Bristol BS37 9TL www.actoncourt.com or call 01454 228 224

Got News? Call Richard 0n 01454 800 120

Email: contact@fromevalleyvoice.co.uk

fromevalleyvoice

14

July, 2019

n NEWS

Litter bin checks to catch out residents BINMEN will start checking litter bins in South Gloucestershire to try and catch people who are using them to dump their household waste.

The council says some residents are “regularly” throwing waste from their homes in street litter bins – and the problem is worst in Frampton Cotterell, Thornbury and Kingswood.

Anyone whose waste is identified will face enforcement action and a possible fine.

The measure is part of a new 10-year waste strategy being launched by the council which sets a target of recycling 65 per cent of rubbish by 2035 and sending no more than 10 per cent to landfill.

The 44-page document says: “In some areas of South Gloucestershire, litter bins are being used for the disposal of household waste.

“This results in overflowing bins and has a major negative

“No job too big or small”

Specialising in .... n Resin driveways n Stone paving n Resin bonded n Tarmac

effect on the appearance of our streets.

“We will not tolerate households using litter bins for household waste, as the bins fill up more quickly, resulting in more litter being dropped on the floor.”

The strategy, which was approved by South Gloucestershire’s Conservative cabinet on June 17, and is going out to public consultation, says signs will be installed making this clear to residents.

The report adds: “Where education has not been effective, our collection teams will investigate the contents of household waste in litter bins to identify who is responsible and take appropriate enforcement action.”

A South Gloucestershire Council spokesperson said: “We provide public litter bins across the district for items that people need to dispose when out and about.

“They should not be used for disposing of excess household waste, as they don’t have the capacity for this and if people fill them up in this way, they cannot serve the purpose for which they are intended.

“Households struggling with waste can contact the council who can provide advice and extra capacity, where appropriate, and or give advice on recycling if part of their surplus is recyclable.

“A small number of households are regularly disposing of their household waste in litter bins, particularly in Thornbury, Frampton Cotterell and Kingswood.

“We are identifying those responsible and will take appropriate action.”

The report to cabinet said the council would review the location of its 1,000 street bins, as well as the types of bin it provides.

There have been calls for public recycling bins and council waste and cleansing group

manager Kristy Spindler said it was something “we are looking at rolling out”.

The new strategy, which is due to go out to public consultation from this week, does not include any changes to kerbside collections, although from April next year bulky household items will be taken to a new facility to be shredded, removing metals, wood and rigid plastics for recycling.

The remaining material would be sent to be burned to generate energy, with the aim of zero going to landfill.

The council’s new waste strategy is open for consultation until September 27. Comments can be made online at bit. ly/30Rwj8n, at local libraries or one-stop shops or by calling 01454 868154.

A roadshow will be held on August 28 at Yate Shopping Centre between 10am and 2pm.

Climate emergency: Page 41

Showhomes wanted 5 and 10-year guarantees Finance options available

n Block paving n Landscaping n General building

Get in touch for free estimates and quotes ...

www.stonewaypaving.co.uk | 01179 595894 E: info@stonewaypaving.co.uk

To advertise, contact Richard on 01454 800 120

Email: contact@fromevalleyvoice.co.uk

fromevalleyvoice

July, 2019

15

n NEWS

Fundraising is start of Lee’s legacy THE family of a boy who lost his life to cancer at the age of eight have announced details of a fundraising event in his memory in Frampton Cotterell.

Lee Belgium, pictured, was originally from Thornbury but was living in Lyde Green at the time of his death in April.

Lee’s family are setting up a charity in his memory called Lee Belgium’s Lasting Legacy.

They have organised a fundraiser at a South Gloucestershire pub as they work to establish the charity, which can raise up to £5,000 before it is officially registered and given a charity number.

Mum Clare Boxall said she wanted to keep Lee’s name “alive forever” and to benefit other children.

She said: “My poor boy is no longer here, and my life has changed for ever.

“I know he would want me to help families that have gone

through the same: kids who have cancer and heart operations, kids that die from horrible accidents and their family need memories.

We want to help with some of the cost of funeral flowers and a haircut to look their best on their day.”

The fundraiser will be held

Got News? Call Richard 0n 01454 800 120

at the Live and Let Live pub in Clyde Road on Saturday August 31 from 3pm, with a barbecue, raffle, face paints, fancy dress, cake stall, auction and evening karaoke. Clare said Lee had managed to beat cancer three times before the disease returned in August last year.

The family managed to raise £80,000 in four months for Lee to have a treatment trial and bone marrow transplant in Turkey, but then he got an infection which he could not survive.

She said: “Lee Belgium was my beautiful son, who was so strong and had so much fight in him.

“Lee never showed any weakness, he’s my superhero and the bravest boy ever.

“On 6th April my angel passed away with a horrible mucor fungus infection. He tried to kick it for a month, but we got told no one makes it out alive with this, it’s what they call the black death.”

A new Facebook group set up to support the charity and carrying its name already has over 3,000 members and Clare hopes it will help to generate funds to help other families in a similar situation.

Email: contact@fromevalleyvoice.co.uk

fromevalleyvoice

16

July, 2019

n STROUD AUCTION ROOMS

Stamps, dogs and rock’n’roll at auction house STROUD Auctions’ July sale got the stamp of approval from buyers when all things philatelic went under the hammer.

Seven lots of stamps, postal history and albums made the list of top-sellers: a collection of 1854-1902 Indian Convention and Feudatory States took pride of place, going under the hammer for £3,600. The New Ideal Stamp Album volume 1, British Empire 1840-1936 – an extensive collection of mint and used stamps including a number of high values – made £2,600, and a very extensive collection of GB stamps from 1840-2014, in six large Stanley Gibbons GB stockbooks, sold for £1,150. Other high selling lots in auctioneer David Lord's specialist section included a ring binder album of Great Britain stamps 1870-87 on Hagner sheets (£900); an extensive collection of QEII Commonwealth stamps (£800); a ring binder album of Great Britain stamps 1901-35 on Hagner sheets, and a stock card of Chinese treaty port stamps each made £600.

Auctioneer Nick Bowkett's

mantra of 'quality sells' was evident once again, as a Royal Worcester pair of two-handled covered vases, decorated with Highland cattle in moorland landscape and signed James Stinton, sold for £2,300. A much-admired Goldscheider Art Nouveau figural lamp in the form of Eve reaching up into an apple tree, with impressed signature of F Goss, made £1,000. A Geoffrey Baxter for Whitefriars banjo vase in kingfisher blue, with original

pattern label to base, was snapped up for £600.

In the music section, three USA-made electric basses were the highlights – a 1976 USA-made Fender Jazz went for £1,000, a Fender Precision made £550 and a Gibson Ripper also made £550.

A collection of around 120 vinyl albums, including Neil Young, Queen and the Beatles, sold for £550.

There was great interest in

a bound volume of 20 coloured engravings of the Great Exhibition of 1851; and set of five Victorian architectural drawings of Tower Bridge, London, dated April 1889, each of which sold for £550.

Finally, man's best friend also gets a mention on the top lots list, with a charming oil-on-canvas by Edward Armfield (1817-1893) of Springer Spaniels with a basket of game birds, pictured, selling for £500.

The July auction was another very busy and outstandingly popular sale. The next will be on August 7 and 8, when the spotlight will be guns and weapons, medals and militaria, toys, scientific instruments, weights and scales, cameras and binoculars. Viewing will be on Tuesday, August 6 from 10am-7pm and from 9am on sale days.

For information about any aspect of buying or selling with Stroud Auction Rooms ring 01453 873800, email info@stroudauctions. com or visit the website www. stroudauctions.co.uk.

STROUD AUCTION ROOMS Entries now invited for our upcoming auction on

September 11th , 12th & 13th Including specialist sections of jewellery, silver, watches, clocks, coins & textiles

Wristwatches

Jewellery

Silver

Contact Alexandra Bowkett (DGA, FGA) Contact Mark Rozelaar Contact Stuart Maule Georgian/Victorian micro mosaic A Victorian brooch set Charles II 17th century International Watch Company with a sapphire surrounded plaque depicting a dove hallmarked silver IWC British military issue stainless by diamonds.

Sold for £6000 charger.

Sold for £4000 steel wristwatch. Sold for £3,800 Sold for £16,000 FREE valuations every Friday (9am-5pm) & Saturday (9am-12:30pm) at our saleroom, at your home by appointment or why not email us a photograph for an instant valuation to info@stroudauctions.com We are currently ranked no 1 in the country for the number of online bidders

Unit J, Bath Road Trading Estate, Stroud, GL5 3QF

01453 873800 www.stroudauctions.co.uk

To advertise, contact Richard on 01454 800 120

Email: contact@fromevalleyvoice.co.uk

fromevalleyvoice

July, 2019

17

n NEWS

New Frampton school reaches high point THE firm behind a brand new multi-million pound building for Watermore Primary School in Frampton Cotterell invited teachers up to the top to celebrate reaching the highest point of construction.

The new school building will have 14 classrooms to accommodate rising numbers of pupils, a hall and kitchen, two multi-use play spaces, a relocated football pitch and a new car park. Once it is finished, pupils will transfer from the current building which will be demolished to leave space for the outdoor facilities.

Derek Quinn, executive director of builders Midas Construction, said: “We are pleased to be marking the highest point of the development with the team working hard to deliver a high quality, much anticipated school for this community.

“We have worked closely alongside the school and South Gloucestershire Council to deliver the best possible school for the community while keeping pupils and staff constantly up to date with progress.

“We have enjoyed more than 20 visits from pupils to look around the site so far and have also attended assemblies to give updates about our progress on site.”

Pupils’ efforts decorating the hoardings

Left to right: Assistant head teacher Jacqui Powell, head teacher Janet Hoyle, Midas Construction project manager Andy Blake and executive director Derek Quinn, year 6 teacher Rob Hathway and Nicole Muller of South Gloucestershire Council on to of the new Watermore Primary School building. surrounding the new building have won the project an award in the national Ivor Goodsite’s Hoarding competition.

Midas hopes to hand the new building over by the end of this year, with both phases

Got News? Call Richard 0n 01454 800 120

completed by next summer. It is one of more than 60 education projects the Bristol-based builder has worked on across the country in the last five years.

Email: contact@fromevalleyvoice.co.uk

18

fromevalleyvoice

July, 2019

n NEWS

The crowd at Mash in the Meadows

FLASH IRON Acton’s annual musical extravaganza Music in the Meadows has raised more than £10,000 for good causes.

The two-day event on July 5-6, organised by village community group Acton Aid, was the most successful of the seven staged so far.

A bucket collection for the South West ambulance service raised in excess of £2,500 to add to the money raised by ticket sales.

Friday evening’s Mash in the Meadows event opened with local performer Lewis Creaven and his band performing a selection of creative covers in front of the audience of around 1,500 people.

Best ever Music in the Meadows raises £10,000 Then two of the UK’s top tribute bands took to the stage: ARRIVAL, with songs from Abba looked and sounded liked the real thing, and FLASH, playing songs by Queen, strutted the Iron Acton stage for the second time having returned due to popular demand.

Saturday’s Proms in the Meadows saw the Bristol Millennium Orchestra play popular classical music, with

ARRIVAL

To advertise, contact Richard on 01454 800 120

other acts including the Iron Acton Community Choir, Junior Fascinating Rhythm, Kathryn Hurley Dancers, and singers from Opera in the Box. The evening ended with fireworks and the orchestra performing favourites from the Last Night of the Proms.

Event spokesman Richard Hunter, said: “The seventh MASH sold out two weeks in advance, and I am not surprised

in view of the fantastic line-up.

“The team from Acton Aid worked incredibly hard to deliver the event, with several days of preparing, officiating at the events and then clearing up.

“All helpers even pay for their own tickets to maximise the funds raised for good causes.”

Next year’s event takes place on July 3 and 4 and tickets will again be on sale in advance.

Lewis Creaven

Email: contact@fromevalleyvoice.co.uk

fromevalleyvoice

July, 2019

19

n NEWS

Honour for Frampton's Pat and Dave FORMER South Gloucestershire councillors Pat and Dave Hockey have been made aldermen in recognition of their long service.

The Frampton Cotterell couple have a combined 60 years of public service between them and, although they stepped down from South Gloucestershire Council before May's elections, they continue to sit on Frampton Cotterell Parish Council.

Paying tribute as the Liberal Democrat veterans were given their honour, group leader and fellow Frampton Cotterell councillor Claire Young said: "Pat and Dave Hockey have worked hard for our communities for many decades.

I am delighted that we have been able to mark this amazing record of public service by appointing them Honorary Aldermen.

"There can be few people who can claim to have had as great a role in shaping our area as Pat Hockey. First elected to Northavon in 1979 and Avon

Pat and Dave Hockey receive their awards from South Gloucestershire Council chair Brian Allinson.

County Council six years later, as Avon Leader she played a key role in getting Yate Station re-opened and led the successful campaign to get the Frome Valley into the Green Belt. On South Gloucestershire Council she was Cabinet Member for Planning, Transport and the Strategic Environment and her expertise was widely recognised.

A formidable speaker in the council chamber, she also dedicated many hours behind the

scenes to working on strategic plans.

"Dave Hockey was elected to South Gloucestershire Council in 1999. Over the years he chaired the Communities Select Committee, Public Rights of Way committee and the Development Control (West) planning committee.

A passionate campaigner on environmental issues, his drive and determination were particularly evident in his twenty

year campaign to clean up the River Frome. Another key achievements was his hands-on management of the Brockeridge Centre project.

"Although they have retired from South Gloucestershire Council, they are still working for the community on Frampton Cotterell Parish Council. I wish them both a long and happy semi-retirement."

Saturday 20 July – Sunday 1 September Catch Bristol’s greatest show as The Invisible Circus take over Brunel’s famous ship, with amazing acrobatics and jaw-dropping feats.

Plan your day and save on tickets at ssgreatbritain.org/summer Supported by:

Got News? Call Richard 0n 01454 800 120

Email: contact@fromevalleyvoice.co.uk

fromevalleyvoice

20

July, 2019

n NEWS

Greenbelt homes master plan attacked THE choice of 12 sites to build many of the 105,000 homes planned for the region over the next 17 years have been attacked from all sides.

The West of England Joint Spatial Plan or JSP has been put together by Bristol, South Gloucestershire, B&NES and North Somerset councils to be a blueprint for the development of the region until 2036. It is currently being examined at a series of public hearings in Bath.

It includes 12 strategic development locations or SDLs, which will each have hundreds of new homes built on them.

They include Coalpit Heath, Yate, Charfield, Buckover and Thornbury.

Builders Bloor Homes and Barratt Homes are calling for the housing target to be raised to 140,000, while campaigners from Thornbury Residents Against Poorly Planned Development (TRAPPD) say that the impact of the current target

could be “catastrophic”.

Persimmon Homes barrister Thea Osmund-Smith said the four councils had failed to consider reasonable alternatives to the 12 SDLs and the plan’s sustainability assessment had “fundamental flaws” that could not be remedied.

But barrister Suzanne Ornsby, for the four councils, said the plan was maximising urban living and more than half of the planned homes were in areas that no-one was trying to change.

She said: “Everyone around the table is complaining that the assessment of SDLs is wrong because their sites aren’t in.”

Miss Ornsby said that SDLs in the green belt were chosen only after councils had exhausted their hunt for brownfield sites – preferably close to the area of housing need – that would allow “sustainable” development.

Councils had to prove there were “exceptional circumstances”

to justify building on the green belt.

But Colin Gardner, from TRAPPD, told the inquiry the process as described smacked of “post-selection justification”.

Bus company Stagecoach, said Coalpit Heath is one of five 'strategic development congestion locations' from new developments in the West of England will be would make it “practically severe.” impossible” to run a reliable The government examination bus service on certain key of the joint spatial plan took routes, and unless the MetroBus place during the first half of network is extended, the growing July, further hearings planned in communities in Thornbury September and October. and Yate would not be served A decision by inspectors on effectively by public transport. whether the plan is “sound” and Nick Small, from Stagecoach, legally compliant is not expected said: “The impact on passengers until the end of the year.

Recently refurbished Country House Wedding Venue & Accommodation licensed for Civil Ceremonies & Partnerships | Exclusively Yours

weddings 01454 260207 | Falfield Wotton-under-Edge Gloucestershire GL12 8DA | www.eastwoodpark.co.uk

To advertise, contact Richard on 01454 800 120

Email: contact@fromevalleyvoice.co.uk

fromevalleyvoice

July, 2019

21

MOT & SERVICING COSTS TO MAKE YOU SMILE

n NEWS

Flyin Ryan is back

It’s show time!

SERVICE FROM £99 MOT FROM £35

*

MORE than 25,000 visitors are expected to experience the new attractions and returning favourites at this year’s South Gloucestershire Show.

The show, which this year takes place on August 3 and 4, promises to be a weekend of memorable experiences and fun for all the family.

For the very first time there will be livestock classes in the NFU Livestock Area, with hundreds of cattle, sheep and pigs competing for winners’ rosettes. Both afternoons will feature a grand parade of livestock in the Gregor Heating main arena.

On Saturday August 3 there will be a new dog village, with dog activities, scent work and agility runs open to visitors and their pets.

A fun dog show will help to raise funds for the Friends of South Glos Strays. On the following day the area will become a tartan village, hosting the Royal Scottish Pipe Band Association. After the London and South of England Branch of the RSPBA realised that here were no competitions for pipe bands in the South West, they joined forces with the show’s organisers to stage one. Hundreds of pipers and drummers will take part.

Firm favourite Flyin Ryan returns to the main arena this year to perform his renowned motorcycle stunts; jumps over vehicles, wheelies, freestyle jumps and a pyrotechnic finale. There will be a sheepdog display with Thomas Longton, exhibiting the skill and dedication of the working dog. Wings of Wales are also making a comeback with their beautiful birds. In the Sprint Print RMX Arena there will be a BMX team showing off their tricks.

For families with younger children, there is a kids’ zone with entertainment, including the Banana Brain Fun Show. For teenagers and adults there will be a music festival with local bands playing.

Event sponsors John Lewis will host professional talks on fashion and style, new to the show this year.

The show’s chosen charity is once again Jessie May, which supports children with life-limiting conditions and their families in South Gloucestershire and beyond. It will have its own stall dedicated to raising funds through activities and games. All profits from the VIP area are donated to Jessie May, and visitors can upgrade their tickets to gain access.

Some 250 exhibitors will be selling their wares, with a whole area dedicated to food and another to health and well-being.

The show opens at 10.30am on both days, with main arena events running until 5pm and music until 8pm, at the South Glos Showground, Westerleigh, BS37 8QZ. For more information visit southglosshow.co.uk online.

my c

my car • my choice • my garage

ThIS MONTh’S SpEc

EMERSONS GREEN 301 Farendell Road, SpEcIAL OFFErS Emersons Green, Bristol BS16 7FF T: 0844 846 3562

Car & Car & Van ThIS MONTh’S

OT ONLY M Got News? Call Richard 0n 01454 800 120

*

KINGSWOOD Station Road, Kingswood, Bristol BS15 4XX T: 0844 846 3563

MOT ONLY

Se

Service Centre 99 * Book online at: www.mygaragebristol.co.uk

£39.

Email: contact@fromevalleyvoice.co.uk

S

£

fromevalleyvoice

22

July, 2019

n NEWS

Cat owner calls for change in the law A CAT owner whose pet has been shot three times in three years is to campaign for gun licensing laws to be changed.

Liz Jenkins’ cat, which is called Woowoo, was shot with an air rifle pellet twice two years ago, and then again in June.

Under the law, anyone over 18 can own an air rifle without a licence, although the owner must only use it where they have permission to shoot.

Liz, from Yate, said: “I feel really quite helpless but I think I have got to get something positive out of this. Apart from moving house, which will definitely happen at some point, I’m going to get a petition going on the gun laws, and I’m also going to start a pet watch in Yate, a little bit like a neighbourhood watch, on social media.

“I’ve always been an active member of the RSPCA, I’ve always volunteered for them, I’m really big on animal welfare. I’m

going to start this I can’t let this drop. I can’t rest on my laurels I need to up the anti.”

The first two incidents happened within a month of each other in May and June 2017.

Woowoo was taken to a vet and eventually two air rifle pellets were found in her back and shoulder.

In June this year, Woowoo was shot again. She didn’t appear to be injured at first but some hours later when Liz picked her up she screamed in pain.

Liz said: “My hand came away a bit moist. I tried not to panic.

She got into her basket and curled up. I took her to the vets first thing the next morning and they x-rayed her. They removed the pellet and stitched her up.”

Liz has made her own enquiries and has found out that four other people near her in Brockworth, who live almost in a circle, have had similar experiences.

Liz Jenkins with her cat. Photo: Rich McD Photography A police spokesperson said: “On 8 June we received a report of criminal damage relating cat which had been shot with an air rifle on Brockworth, Yate.

Officers have conducted house to house enquiries but have so

far been unable to establish the person responsible."

Anyone with information about the incident is being urged to call 101 and quote the crime reference number 5219 127 761.

Try performing arts this summer Razzamataz Bristol North is offering a fun and affordable summer school where youngsters get to experience everything from street dance through to pop singing and traditional West End and Broadway musical theatre.

To secure your place on the summer school at Razzamataz Bristol North contact Principal Georgia Davies, on E: bristolnorth@razzamataz.co.uk, T: 07809 709003 or visit bristolnorth.razzamataz.co.uk

Razz Tots

New Class Razz Tots is held every Saturday at 9am-10am. The location for classes is Yate Academy High School, Sundridge Park, Yate, South Glos. BS37 4DX. Places are booking up quickly and are available on a strictly first come first served basis.

To secure your child’s place and come for a free trial, please contact Principal Georgia Davies on 07809709003 or email bristolnorth@razzamataz.co.uk Alternatively visit the website on www.bristolnorth.razzamataz.co.uk.

To advertise, contact Richard on 01454 800 120

GAMING and social media addiction are relatively new buzz words but ones that send shock waves to many parents.

Although experts argue about the best way to tackle it, what is clear is that the internet is not going anywhere, so parents are looking to find other ways to ignite their child’s imagination and create a happy and balanced life.

During the long six-week summer holiday, finding things to keep children entertained to day in, day out is not easy, which is why many parents look to holiday clubs, so children can interactive with others, have fun and keep off technology.

Razzamataz Bristol North is offering a fun and affordable summer school where youngsters get to experience everything from street dance through to pop singing and traditional West End and Broadway musical theatre.

"The performing arts is a chance for children to improve their confidence, make new friends and have lots of fun,” explains Georgia Davies, Principal of Razzamataz Bristol North.

During the week, children and their teachers will work on various songs, dances and drama pieces, together with learning about theatre skills in general. Being given the chance to perform is paramount to building a child’s confidence which is why on the last day, the children will all get the opportunity to perform their showcase to friends and family.

This year’s theme is Matilda and will involve learning the scripts, spacing, voice projection and choreography.

To secure your place on the summer school at Razzamataz Bristol North contact Principal Georgia Davies at bristolnorth@ razzamataz.co.uk, call 07809 709003 or visit bristolnorth. razzamataz.co.uk.

Email: contact@fromevalleyvoice.co.uk

fromevalleyvoice

July, 2019

23

n MESSAGE FROM AVON & SOMERSET PCC

We're keeping our cool ...

WITH the schools finishing for the holidays and the sun shining, summer is in full swing.

It’s important to remember that for those working during this time, in particular those working in uniform, the heat is more than a little uncomfortable.

Regardless of this, I know officers will continue to keep our communities safe and feeling safe to ensure you are able to enjoy all that summer brings.

In Avon and Somerset, we’re lucky enough to have many wonderful events take place over the summer. At the start of July, the biggest music festival in the world came to our doorstep and over 200,000 people descended on Worthy Farm for Glastonbury 2019. I was pleased to hear that crime levels at Glastonbury have remained low with 118 crimes reported this year compared to 202 in 2017, a reduction of 41.6%.

I was also delighted that St Paul’s Carnival was back again

for another year as it’s a fantastic celebration of people, diversity, culture, community and music.

The event proves what great things can happen when the whole city pulls together, and is a testament to the local community and the love that residents have for the place they live and work.

Most recently, we celebrated Bristol Pride and officers proudly donned rainbow colours and marched alongside revellers at the annual parade. As with the other two events I have mentioned, Pride brings local people together to celebrate our differences and allows us to share the important message that hate crimes will not be tolerated.

Being targeted because of your age, race, sexual orientation, religion or any other reason is unacceptable.

It's been over three months since Operation Remedy started.

The operation, which focuses on knife crime, burglary and drugs

in our area, has got off to a flying start and has made notable improvements in tackling these issues. Since April, there have been 450 related offences; 33 warrants executed, 23 of which resulted in a positive outcome; a total of 287 stop searches; and 414 reports of crime from both the public and police officers.

Various stolen items have been seized, recovered and returned to the owners. Drugs have been seized, including approximately 645 cannabis plants, 12 grams of Amphetamine and 1 kilo of cocaine.

I know people will be pleased with the police’s increased focus on these issues. There’s still plenty to be done but I am delighted with the positive results the team have achieved so far. We will continue to work hard and send a clear message to criminals that coming into our villages, towns and cities to commit their crimes is not an option.

With Police and Crime Commissioner Sue Mountstevens Finally, I mentioned a new initiative called the ‘Chat Bench’ that hopes to tackle isolation within the senior community. I’m delighted to read that this Avon and Somerset Police initiative has gained real traction and inspired communities as far away as the USA to start their own ‘Chat Bench’ to tackle loneliness.

Frampton Dental Practice

We are accepting new patients Both NHS and private patients are welcome

Frampton Dental Practice 288 Park Lane Frampton Cotterell, BS36 2BL, Bristol

To find out more, contact us:

01454 774655 Got News? Call Richard 0n 01454 800 120

John Harris

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

Email: contact@fromevalleyvoice.co.uk

ajhomes homes aj

Hambrook £850,000 • 17th Century Family Home • 4 Double Bedrooms • 3 Reception Rooms

• Kitchen & Utility Room • Double Garage • Plot In Excess Of 1 Acre • River Frontage

EPC

Frampton Cotterell £795,000 B • Two Bathrooms

• Private Gated Entrance • Executive Detached Property • Five Bedrooms

Winterbourne £625,000 ● ● ●

Detached House 6 Bedrooms 3 Reception Rooms 30' Kitchen/Family Room

● ● ● ●

• Two En-Suites • Open Plan Lounge/Dining/Kitchen

● ● ●

● ● ●

●

• Individual Detached Home • Beautifully Presented • Four Double Bedrooms

• Four En-Suites • Double Garage • Completely Renovated • Two/Three Recs

● ● ●

● ●

Detached Family House 4 Double Bedrooms 29' Dual Aspect Lounge 16' Kitchen/Breakfast Room

●

●

• Open Fire & Wood Burning Stove • Downstairs Shower Rm • Upstairs Bathroom

● ● ●

● ●

● ●

●

• BRAND NEW EPC DETACHED HOUSE • Four Bedrooms • Lounge/Dining Room

LANDLORDS

INCLUDES: Comprehensive tenant referencing AST tenancy agreement All viewings accompanied Collection fo 1st months rent & tenancy deposit Fully marketed through newspaper & web portals

●

• Kitchen/Breakfast Room • Utility Room • Cloakroom • Det Double Garage

●

● ● ●

● ● ●

Conservatory En-suite & Family Bathroom Double Garage Large Rear Garden

Winterbourne Down £465,000 ●

• Detached Chalet Bungalow • 4 Bedrooms • 2 Reception Rooms

• 21’ Kitchen/Breakfast Room • Bathroom & En-suite • Off Street Parking

E

Breakfast Area Circa 160ft Rear Garden Single Garage Workshop/Shed

C

Cloakroom, Utility Room & Study En-suite & Family Bathroom Large Driveway & Garage

●

Winterbourne £375,000 (o.i.e.o.)

• Semi Detached Cottage Cloakroom Lettings Dept.

01454 252 ••141 • Three Bedrooms Large Rear Garden

• Cloakroom • Two En-Suite Showers • Double Glazed Throughout

• Lounge/Dining Room • Close to Good Schools

• Garage & Parking • No Onward Chain

EPC

E

A package to suit your own requirements Tenant Find Rent Collection Winterbourne Full Management ●

For more details please call 01454 252 141 ●

Executive Detached House Deceptively Spacious Two Receptions Four Bedrooms

Frampton Cotterell £400,000 (o.i.e.o.)

Coalpit Heath £359,950

●

●

Victorian Semi Detached Three Bedrooms 24' Lounge/Dining Room 15' Kitchen

TENANT FIND £199 + VAT

●

●

Conservatory En-suite & Family Bathroom Double Garage Large Rear Garden

EPC

Landlords Special Offer

Detached Family House 4 Double Bedrooms 29' Dual Aspect Lounge 16' Kitchen/Breakfast Room

●

C

LETTINGS & PROPERTY MANAGEMENT

●

●

Winterbourne Down £279,950

Cloakroom, Utility Room & Study En-suite & Family Bathroom Large Driveway & Garage

Frampton Cotterell £465,000

• Character Cottage • Four Bedrooms • Three Reception Rooms • Cottage Style Kitchen

●

D

Frampton Cotterell £450,000

• Detached House • Four Bedrooms • Three Reception Rooms • Conservatory

Coalpit Heath £359,950 ●

●

Rangeworthy £495,000

EPC

●

• Bed 5/Dining Room • Family Bathroom • Utility Room

EPC

Executive Detached House Deceptively Spacious Two Receptions Four Bedrooms

27' Master Bedroom & Balcony Double Garage Views Over Green Belt Farm Land Private Development Of Only 4 Houses

Coalpit Heath £625,000 ●

EPC

Frampton Cotterell £450,000

27' Master Bedroom & Balcony Double Garage Views Over Green Belt Farm Land Private Development Of Only 4 Houses

Detached House 6 Bedrooms 3 Reception Rooms 30' Kitchen/Family Room

Frampton Cotterell £675,000 D • 30’ Living Room/Kitchen

• Private Gated Development • Executive Det Home • 3 Beds with En-suite

B

Winterbourne £625,000 ●

ww

www.aj-homes.co.uk www.aj-homes.co.uk

EPC

●

01

01454252 252 140 140 01454

● ● ●

Victorian Semi Detached Three Bedrooms 24' Lounge/Dining Room 15' Kitchen

4 Flaxpits Lane • Winterbourne Bristol BS36 1JX

LETTINGS & PROPERTY MANAGEMENT

Down £279,950 ● ● ● ●

Breakfast Area Circa 160ft Rear Garden Single Garage Workshop/Shed

Lettings Dept. 0145

1454 252 140

ajhomes aj

ww.aj-homes.co.uk homes

Frampton Cotterell £375,000 • Benson Bungalow • 4 Bedroom Home • 18’ Lounge • Dining Room

• 14’ Kitchen/Breakfast Room • Wet Room • Garage & Parking

EPC

Winterbourne £365,000 B • Lounge

• Semi Detached Town House • Three Bedrooms (Formally Four)

Winterbourne £625,000 ● ● ●

Detached House 6 Bedrooms 3 Reception Rooms 30' Kitchen/Family Room

● ● ● ●

B

• 16’ Kitchen/Breakfast Room • En-Suite to Master

● ●

● ●

● ● ● ●

Executive Detached House Deceptively Spacious Two Receptions Four Bedrooms

●

• Detached Home • Four Bedrooms • 18ft Living Room

●

• Garage & Parking • Cloakroom & Ensuite • Beautifully Presented

• Extended Semi Detached House • Three Bedrooms • Kitchen/Dining/Family

Detached Family House 4 Double Bedrooms 29' Dual Aspect Lounge 16' Kitchen/Breakfast Room

●

●

• Modern End Terrace House • Three Double Bedrooms • Three En-Suite Shower

● ●

Rooms • 13’ Kitchen/Breakfast Room • Lounge/Dining Room

D

● ●

Conservatory En-suite & Family Bathroom Double Garage Large Rear Garden

● ● ●

Executive Detached House Deceptively Spacious Two Receptions Four Bedrooms

●

Room • Lounge • Downstairs Shower Room/Utility

● ● ●

Conservatory En-suite & Family Bathroom Double Garage Large Rear Garden

Winterbourne £315,000 ●

• Extended Semi Detached Property • Three Bedrooms • 18ft x 16ft Kitchen/

EPC

Diner/Family Room • Close To Amenities • Popular Location • Beautifully Presented

E

Winterbourne Down £279,950

Cloakroom, Utility Room & Study En-suite & Family Bathroom Large Driveway & Garage

Winterbourne £275,000 (o.i.e.o.) ●

●

C

Coalpit Heath £359,950 ●

●

Coalpit Heath £320,000

EPC

●

• Beautifully Presented • Close to Amenities • Cul de Sac Location

Frampton Cotterell £450,000

27' Master Bedroom & Balcony Double Garage Views Over Green Belt Farm Land Private Development Of Only 4 Houses

Stoke Gifford £350,000 (o.i.e.o.)

●

Yate £350,000 D • Two Reception Rooms

Frampton Cotterell £450,000

27' Master Bedroom & Balcony Double Garage Views Over Green Belt Farm Land Private Development Of Only 4 Houses

Detached House 6 Bedrooms 3 Reception Rooms 30' Kitchen/Family Room

EPC

• Semi Detached Home • Stunning Views • 4 Bedrooms • Kitchen/Diner

EPC

Winterbourne £625,000 ●

www

www.aj-homes.co.uk www.aj-homes.co.uk

EPC

●

014

01454 252 252 140 01454 140

● ●

Victorian Semi Detached Three Bedrooms 24' Lounge/Dining Room 15' Kitchen

● ●

Breakfast Area Circa 160ft Rear Garden Single Garage Workshop/Shed

Winterbourne Down £227,950 ● ●

• Two Bed Maisonette • Village Location EPC • Stunning Views • Cloakroom & Bathroom

LETTINGS & PROPERTY MANAGEMENT

C

● ●

• Open Plan Living • Oak & Wrought Iron Stair Case • Converted Cira 2014

Frampton Cotterell £170,000 (o.i.e.o.)

• Top Floor Apartment • Two Double Bedrooms • Lounge/Dining Room • Modern Fitted Kitchen

• Bathroom

En-Suite Room EPC Lettings Dept. 01454 252•• Allocated 141 Shower E Parking Space

Landlords Special Offer

• Well Presented

TENANT FIND £199 + VAT

Call our LETTINGS Department

INCLUDES: Comprehensive tenant referencing AST tenancy agreement All viewings accompanied Collection fo 1st months rent & tenancy deposit Fully marketed through newspaper & web portals

OnCoalpit 01454 252 141£359,950 to discuss your individual requirements Heath Winterbourne Down £279,950

● ● ● ●

Cloakroom, Utility Room & Fees •Victorian Semi DetachedStaff Competitive & Transparent Fully Qualified Three Bedrooms Study En-suite &call Family Bathroom For more details please 01454 252 141 24' Lounge/Dining Room

Detached Family House 4 Double Bedrooms 29' Dual Aspect Lounge 16' Kitchen/Breakfast Room

●

● ●

●

●

●

●

●

Large Driveway & Garage

●

15' Kitchen

4 Flaxpits Lane • Winterbourne Bristol BS36 1JX

54 252 LETTINGS 141 & PROPERTY MANAGEMENT

● ●

Breakfast Area Circa 160ft Rear Garden Single Garage Workshop/Shed

Lettings Dept. 01454

fromevalleyvoice

26

July, 2019

n NEWS

A look at barn’s transformation THE ambitious restoration of the Winterbourne Medieval Barn is running to schedule for completion next spring.

The work, largely funded by the National Lottery Heritage Fund at a cost of £1.74 million, has been underway for five months, with modern structures being demolished, the West Barn gutted and re-roofed, and the cow byres are now being extended and re-roofed.

The South Barn and the Medieval Barn have had new coats of limewash, which has brightened them up inside and contrasts with the medieval roof timbers.

There is the opportunity for members of the public to go and have a look at the works on a hard-hat tour September 17 at 2pm as part of the national Heritage Open Days scheme. The tour is free but must be booked in advance via the Winterbourne Barn website. Drop-in events at the Cartshed are being held on September 14 and 15 for updates on the work.

Activities and events are still going on in the Cartshed, which was recently refurbished with EU money. There is plenty on offer for children over the school summer holidays, with specific clubs running over three days at a time. Children can go for any or all of the days. An archaeology club is taking place on between July 30 August 1, with hands-on activities for children up to the age of 11. The sessions cost £10, including materials and a snack, and are led by Jenny Hopkins from Hands-On Archaeology.

An art club is on from August

6 to 8 for children aged 10-13, who can make art with natural materials and materials they have found themselves. From August 13 to 15 children aged between 6 and 9 can create animal art. Children attending all three sessions will be able to earn an arts award. The clubs will be run by Jasmine Loveys, the community engagement officer for the Winterbourne Medieval Barn Trust, who also delivers workshops in primary schools.

The cost is £10 a day. Spaces for all clubs are limited and must be booked in advance via website Ticketsource.

More information about

the Winterbourne Medieval Barn Trust can be found on

the winterbournebarn.org.uk website and Facebook page.

F. Woodruff

Family Funeral Directors 2 High Street, Winterbourne BS36 1JN Tel: 01454 773776 192 Badminton Road, Coalpit Heath BS36 2SX Tel: 01454 778838 118-120 Station Road, Yate BS37 4PQ Tel: 01454 320005 Email: info@funerals.uk.net Web: www.funerals.uk.net

To advertise, contact Richard on 01454 800 120

Email: contact@fromevalleyvoice.co.uk

fromevalleyvoice

July, 2019

n NEWS A WOODLAND project which supports women in recovery from alcohol and drug abuse has been awarded £100,000 by the national lottery.

Run exclusively by women for women, the Hawthorn Project at Tortworth Forest Centre is the first of its kind in the country offering a safe space and support in the woods. Participants learn woodland skills like outdoor cooking, using tools, and plant, wildlife and birdsong identification – but there is also time for a cuppa and a chat around the fire.

The initiative originally ran as a pilot for 18 months and the benefits were found to be transformative. It was set up by Bec Cork, who manages 18 acres of woodlands at Tortworth, and her friend Jackie Roby from the company Go Wild Education.

Women reported improvements in their physical health, their self-esteem, and their relationships. Now women in recovery are referred by Bristol Drugs Project and Developing Health and Independence Bristol and South Glos.

Bec said: “The women who come to The Hawthorn Project are there to learn about bushcraft and lighting fires, about trees and nature. We are not there to dwell on addiction or trauma but to focus on the future, healthy life choices, rekindling interests and rediscovering who they are and what they enjoy.”

One woman recovering from alcohol addiction, who asked to be known as Roz, had not left her house for weeks when she first attended.

She said: “I woke up that morning looking forward to something. It was exciting to get ready to go somewhere.

27

£100,000 lottery boost for woodland project

Tortworth Forest Centre manager Bec Cork and Roz of the Hawthorn Project.

“I’m always worrying, but when I come to the woods, I switch off my phone. I feel free.”

Bec said: “One of the things Jackie and I feel very strongly about is that woodlands are portrayed on films as scary places, where women will be hacked to death by a scary man with an axe. So I really want to show that woods are for women, they are nurturing spaces and we’re allowed to do bushcraft, and it’s not about whose got the biggest knife. The forestry sector is very negatively gendered.”

Bec and Jackie find that women start to show an interest in their surroundings, asking about books on wildlife, or whether they can get a qualification in forest skills.

Bec said: “There’s one lady who wants to learn forestry – I’m

trying to find her a placement – there’s another lady who, through coming to the project regularly, has completely stopped drinking and has been able to reconnect with her family.”

The funding from the National Lottery Community Fund will ensure the project runs for another four years, paying for three members of staff, a minibus, and training.

The Hawthorn Project is only a small part of what goes on at Tortworth Arboretum. The Arboretum was left unmanaged for many years, and restoring the woodlands is a huge project under Bec’s management.

A small team of volunteers has recently completed a one year project mapping all 610 trees, which was funded with £10,000 from the National

Lottery Heritage fund. Now the public will be asked via the Tortworth Forest Centre website to help choose which new trees should be planted.

There are monthly volunteer days which are open to everyone, and various organisations use the woods regularly, including the Scouts, Adventures in Nature, who offer family camps, Go Wild Education who run forest school, and Honeywoods. Honeywoods is Bec’s own company offering women’s retreats where women pay what they can afford.

On October 12 there will be a community tree planting day.

For more information about Woodland women visit bit.ly/2XXQRyW online and for more information on the arboretum visit tortwortharboretum.org.

FREE HOM VISIT E S

Frenchay Play Group Beckspool Road, Frenchay, BS16 1NU

Tuesdays 9.30-11.30 upstairs in Frenchay Village Hall

EVERYONE IS WELCOME Lovely warm friendly group Contact Deb

07900568466

To advertise, contact Richard on 01454 800 120

Single & mirrored wills Lasting powers of attorney Prepaid funeral plans Property trust wills Graham Southorn Bristol will writer

Call Graham on 0117 440 1230 graham.southorn@maplebrookwills.co.uk

Email: contact@fromevalleyvoice.co.uk

28

fromevalleyvoice

July, 2019

n NEWS

National award for special needs group

A GROUP which gives a voice to families of children with disabilities has had its work recognised with a national award.

South Glos Parents and Carers was nominated for the Excellence in Parent Carer Participation award as part of charity Contact’s ‘Together at 40’ celebrations.

The group was presented with the award by Minister for Children and Families Nadhim Zahawi during a ceremony held at the Palace of Westminster and hosted by Radio 4 Women’s Hour presenter Jane Garvey.

SGPC is the parent carer forum for South Gloucestershire, representing families of children and young people, aged up to 25, with additional needs.

Founded 10 years ago from a meeting of eight parents in a coffee shop, the group now has more than 1,150 members and 40 volunteers, providing a range of services.

Members of the South Glos Parents and Carers group The first SGPC community base opened in Kingswood in 2009 and its head office is in Poole Court, Yate.

In London to receive the award were SGPC members Rachel Trueman and Leonie Pollinger, who both live in Emersons Green.

Rachel, an SGPC founder and its chief executive, said: “We are thrilled to have won this award.

Our passion and our drive are to see service improvements for

our community and making sure that we are fully involved in the process.

“Over the past 10 years we have been working really hard to build trust and relationships with education, health and social care services, with the sole aim of working co-productively together in mutual understanding towards positive change. We have had successes but there is still a lot of work to be done.

“Our community is our

motivation. Without our community giving their time and energy attending our events, completing our surveys and giving us their views, winning this award would not have been possible.”

Julie Bye, a parent who nominated the group, said: “They are a force for change, but also hugely supportive. They run a counselling service and training for parent carers to empower them to get jobs.”

Any parent carer of a child with additional needs in the area, diagnosed or otherwise, is welcome to join the SGPC community and access the services and support offered, which include lowcost counselling, workshops, accessible stay and play, drop-in support sessions, support groups, written guides and a closed Facebook group.

For more information visit www.sglospc.org.uk.

Join our team We look after adults and children at home, and at school and provide residential and nursing care.

We are NHS and Local Authority funded with hundreds of our staff working across South Gloucestershire, parts of Bristol and Bath and North East Somerset.

We are always on the lookout for great people and this is an opportunity for you to find out what is available, clinical and non-clinical.

Flexible working patterns will always be considered (so long as our services can support your requests). Equally, we have a proactive Bank Team.

We offer a wide range of benefits and Agenda for Change terms & conditions for some of our roles.

Please submit a short supporting statement or CV as your application via recruitment@sirona-cic.org.uk, call us on 0300 124 5444 or take a look at our current vacancies here www.sironacic.org.uk/work-with-us/ You can also find us on Facebook @SironaCIC or on Twitter @SironaJobs We look forward to hearing from you

To advertise, contact Richard on 01454 800 120

Email: contact@fromevalleyvoice.co.uk

fromevalleyvoice

July, 2019

n LOCAL MP

Luke Hall MP writes for Frome Valley Voice

29

Broadband: Fighting for the remaining 4% AS a local man who grew up in rural South Gloucestershire, I feel the frustrations that can come with a slow, or even worse non-existent, broadband connection.

As the world becomes ever more dependent on connections – from working at home with email, to streaming the latest iPlayer series or children requiring the internet to complete their homework – a reliable and fast connection is more vital than ever. It is not a luxury: it can be as vital for households as heating or running water.

Since 2010, the Government has undertaken one of the most ambitious infrastructure programs ever seen in our rural communities, with towns and villages in South Gloucestershire seeing a leap from 61% coverage in 2012 to the present day 96%, aided by the

Government’s investment of £13.7 million both locally and nationally.

And the support hasn’t stopped there, with a number of schemes helping make more connections.

From the Better Broadband Voucher for rural businesses to the Rural Gigabit scheme targeting our hardest-to-reach communities, the commitment from Government is to now treat a decent connection as a utility like water, electric and gas; connections are now increasingly fibre to the premises, rather than copper to the cabinet.

As the local MP I have remained determined to be a strong voice for both our towns and our villages, ensuring that as a whole community, no-one is left behind.

That is why I have consistently pressed both ministers and local council chiefs to deliver and fight for the remaining 4%, connecting

our cherished surrounding rural communities with our towns.

I was delighted to hear that our voice has now again been heard in Government; our demands from ministers have been successful and we have been granted an extra £900,000 for South Gloucestershire, which will help to meet this final element of the challenge for 100% broadband connections.

I will continue to fight for the whole community, ensuring that when it comes to important issues such as this we’re not left behind. If you are concerned about the speed of your broadband connection, or if you are in the remaining 4% that we have to connect, please do let me know at luke.hall.mp@parliament.uk.

LOOKING FOR LEGAL ADVICE?

We offer you friendly, professional expert advice

Your LOCAL Solicitors offer you friendly professional expert advice FLEXIBLE TIMES FOR APPOINTMENTS • Family Law - Divorce & Separation • Child matters • Employment Law • Criminal Defence (Private) • Road traffic Offences • Litigation & Legal Disputes

FREE 30 MINUTE INITIAL MEETING

CONTACT US TODAY

0333 320 8600 www.bevanevemy.co.uk

Meet the team Tina Bennett

Got News? Call Richard 0n 01454 800 120

Lynn Bevan

Stephanie Allen

Email: contact@fromevalleyvoice.co.uk

fromevalleyvoice

30

July, 2019

n WHAT’S ON IN OUR AREA We would love to publicise your event Send details of your events and activities in the following format:

WHAT IT IS WHERE IT IS WHEN IT IS in no more than 40 words: email us at: contact@ fromevalleyvoice.co.uk or call us on 01454 800 120

July30-August 1 n Winterbourne Medieval Barn, 10am-noon daily. Kids' Fun Archaeology Club, run by Jenny Hopkins of Hands-On Archaeology.

Different creative activities each day and children are welcome at any or all sessions. Tickets cost £10 per day from Ticketsource.co.uk.

August 6-8 n Art Club, Winterbourne Medieval Barn, for children aged 10-13 making artworks to go in the outdoor landscape, using natural and found materials. Run by WMBT's Community Engagement Officer Jasmine Loveys from 10am2pm each day. Costs £10 a day: book online at bit.ly/2XS5oXR August 13-15 n Art Club, Winterbourne Medieval Barn, for children aged 6-9 making

animal art, exploring the wildlife around us. Anyone attending all three sessions will earn a Discover Level Arts Award. Run by WMBT's Community Engagement Officer Jasmine Loveys from 10am-2pm each day. Costs £10 a day: book online at bit.ly/2XS5oXR August 17 n Winterbourne Down & District Horticultural Society Annual Flower & Vegetable Show, Greenfield Centre, Park Avenue, Winterbourne.

Open show with plenty of categories in the flower, fruit and veg sections, as well as baking, jam making and photography. Open to the public in the afternoon.

Schedules from Richard on 01454 773218.

August 20 n British Lung Foundation South Gloucestershire Support Group Yate meeting from 2.15pm to 3.15pm, at the Armadillo Cafe, behind the Sports Centre and opposite Morrison’s in Yate.

Speaker from Sirona. For further information please contact Christine on 0797 363 7273.

August 31 n Summer concert, St Michael's church, Winterbourne, featuring the Bristol Male Voice Choir and the Frampton Shantymen, offering a varied programme of light music from spirituals and folk songs to modern musicals and sea-shanties.

Tickets cost £10 adults, £5 children (under 16) and can be booked online at bit.ly/2JzWN8h.

September 2 n The Royal Osteoporosis Society Bristol Support Group will be meeting at 1.45pm in the

Methodist Church Hall, Westburyon-Trym, with a talk by Terrie Stocker, Osteoporosis Nurse Specialist from the BRI. Everyone is welcome. For more information call 07710 743613.

n Belly Dance classes Beginners 7.00pm, Improvers 8.00pm, Methodist Church Hall (upstairs) with Anna 07971234236 or bristolbellydance@yahoo.co.uk term time only.

Regular events Monday n Free baby and toddler group, Winterbourne Early Years Centre, Greenfield Centre, Park Avenue.

9.30am-11.30am, term time only. n Open Door bereavement suport group. 10.30-12.00 every first Monday., St Peter’s Church Baby Group 1-3pm (termtime) Winterbourne Early Years Centre, Greenfield Centre, Park Ave, Winterbourne. For more information call Helen 01454 773781. n Memory Cafe, run by the Alzheimer’s Society. The Greenfield Centre, Winterbourne, 2pm - 4pm 1st Monday of month except Bank Hols. Open to anyone with dementia, and Carers, and anyone with concerns about someone with memory problems. Just turn up.

Tel. 0117 9610 693 n Manor Hall Gardening & Social Club The Manor Hall 2.-3.30pm.

First Monday of the month, (except for Bank Holidays on the second Monday). n 1st Winterbourne Down and Buryside Beavers Scouts 5pm until 6:30pm at the Scout hut on Green Dragon Road, Winterborne.

Contact clivemarston@rocketmail.

Northavon Carpentry Ltd • Commercial and Domestic Carpentry Contractors • General Builders & Property Renovation Specialists • Loft Conversion Specialists • Also Fitted Kitchens, All Types of Timber Flooring

Visit our website today!

• Purpose Made Joinery, Staircases, Extensions • Renovations, New Roofs and Roofing Repairs • All Types of Property Maintenance and Repairs • Free No Obligation Quotations

com n 1st Winterbourne Beavers, Cubs and Scouts. Meet Monday evenings in St. Michael’s Room. dandow@ computer.org or 01454 775024 n North Road Ladies, Iron Action Parish Hall, 7.30, every first Monday. n Women’s Fellowship Zion Church Hall 2.30p.m.- 3.45 Programme of speakers, choirs., followed by a cup of tea. £1.50p per week. For details ring Pat Lax 886830 n Iron Acton WI Iron Acton Parish Hall, 7.30, second Monday of month. n Crossbow Singers, Crossbow House, Frampton Cotterell. 7.30.

Term Time only, starting in September. We would love to welcome more tenors and basses.

Please contact Dave on 07834 184142 n Winterbourne Down Border Morris Morris Dancing, All Saint’s Church Hall, 8.15pm n Winterbourne Scrabble Club - weekly 2.00 - 4.30 pm at Winterbourne & District Community Centre, Watleys End Road, Winterbourne. Further info from Gill on 01454 773573. n Winterbourne Afternoon WI meets at Salem Church Hall, Factory Road, Winterbourne on the 2nd Monday of each month at 2pm. We welcome visitors. Contact 01454 250817 for details or look at our web site www.wawimoonfruit. com or email lesleysharman@gmail. com n Pickleball at Bradley Stoke Leisure Centre, 9am to 11am.

New members welcome – no upper age limit. First session free, all equipment provided.

For more information email pickleballbristol@gmail.com or visit Bristol Pickleball Club on Facebook. n Slimming World Frampton Cottrell. Watermore Primary School (Infants), Woodend Road, (Opposite the Brockeridge Centre) 5.30 &

Tel: 01454 603992 Mob: 07811 424077 norcarp@hotmail.co.uk

Fitted Bedrooms Fitted Kitchens Garden Decking Loft Conversions Purpose Made Joinery Traditional Style Staircases Solid Wood & Laminate Floorings

www.northavoncarpentry.co.uk

To advertise, contact Richard on 01454 800 120

Email: contact@fromevalleyvoice.co.uk

fromevalleyvoice

July, 2019

7.30pm Tel: Jude 07968 426809 n Macular-support group meets monthly - 3rd Monday 1:30-3:30pm at Watkins room, Old Grammar School, highstreet Chipping Sodbury. Contact Tony : 01454 314066 n Winterbourne Tennis Club. 4.30.

Junior tennis coaching Winterbourne recreation field, BS36 1LU. All ages 3-16 yrs. Contact Imed (club coach) 07459636436 or imedhamroumi@msn.com n F&Fs. Club. Banjo, Mandolin, Guitarists etc. playing a wide range of styles. Meet Mondays. 8 to 10pm. at St Barnabas Church Hall, Warmley. Visitors and new members welcome, support and encouragement given.

Available for concerts. Secretary – 0117 9673668. Website www. fingersandfrets.wordpress.com n The Arts Society Severn Valley meets third Monday of the month at Chipping Sodbury Town Hall.

Lectures plus special interest days, gallery, garden and museum visits, trips abroad. Morning lectures 10.30am for 11am start. Afternoon lectures 1.30pm for 2pm start.

More details online at www.svdfas. co.uk. £6 charge for visitors – contact memb@svdfas.co.uk to ‘try before you buy’. n Bristol Budgerigar Society meets at Little Stoke Community Hall, Little Stoke Lane at 7.30pm on the second Monday of each month. More details including membership details from secretary Colin Parsons by calling 01454 775878 or emailing colinpauline@ hotmail.com. Visitors always welcome without commitment or charge. n Butterflies Babies and Toddlers Group, 10am-11.30am, term-time

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

WHAT IT IS WHERE IT IS WHEN IT IS in no more than 40 words: email us at: contact@ fromevalleyvoice.co.uk or call us on 01454 800 120

only at St Saviours church hall, Coalpit Heath. Mums, dads and grandparents welcome at this friendly group with plenty of toys, a weekly craft table, dressing up and book corner a sit and ride zone, song time and changing facilities. £3 per family. For more details see www.butterfliestoddlersgroup@ gmail.com.

Tuesday n Rhymetime. Winterbourne Library. 10.30- 11am. Rhymes and songs for parents and babies/ toddlers to enjoy together. n Slimming World 9.30am & 11.30am, 5.30pm & 7.30pm, The Greenfield Centre, call Frankie 07519 347243 n Knit and Natter The Beacon@ Zion United Church. 10am 12noon. Contact Mary Thexton 01454 850704 n Gentle Hatha Flow & Well Woman Yoga Find more freedom, flexibility and strength in body, mind and spirit. Restore balance and energy.Fishponds Vassal Centre Tuesdays 5.30-6.30 (Gentle Flow) & 6.45-8pm (Well Woman Yoga) Frenchay Quaker House.

Thursdays 10-11am & 11.15 -12.15pm (Gentle Hatha Flow) St Elizabeth Hall, Hambrook Tuesdays 9.45-10.45am, (Gentle Hatha Flow) Block price £6/ Drop in £7/6.50 concession.

Beginners welcome. How to book/contact details: www.letgoyoga.co.uk/ or call 07904073535 n Yate Poetry Group. All welcome to join our small, informal and friendly group to share and enjoy poems and verse. We meet for an hour 1-2 pm every other Tuesday afternoon in the library, refreshments provided.

For the dates of meetings, please contact Tony on 07704 140682 or yatepoetrygroup@gmail.com n Winterbourne Down & District Horticultural Society, All Saints Church Hall, Winterbourne Down, BS36 1BX, 7.30 pm. 2nd Tuesday of the month. Info: Richard on 01454 773218. n Yate Visually Impaired Group.

Yate Fire Station 2.30 pm every other Tuesday Contact Gay Williams 01454 321749 gab56@ btinternet.com n Winterbourne Tuesday group, The Greenfield Centre, Winterbourne, 7.30 -10pm, second Tuesday of month. Everyone welcome. n Centre Squares (dancing).

Winterbourne Comunity Centre

Got News? Call Richard 0n 01454 800 120

31

(WADCA), 7.45pm. Tel. 260168 n Pucklechurch Folk Dance Club.

We meet every other Tuesday at Pucklechurch Community Centre from 7.45 pm to 8.15 pm. Contact Veronica Holder – 0117 937 2818 n Folk Dancing. Crossbow House, Frampton Cotterell. 8.30 -10.30pm, 1st & 3rd Tuesday of month. n South Gloucestershire Waterpolo club. Junior & Senior players Male Female. Winterbourne Int Academy pool. 7:00 - 8:30 pm. For more info: kazrose@blueyonder.co.uk or nash17@virginmedia.com n Winterbourne Short Mat Bowling Club Tuesday 1.30 - 3.30 at Winterbourne Community Centre, Watleys End Road. Contact Pat Sleightholme, 01179 793473. New members welcome. n Frome Valley Mens Probus Club.

We meet 1st and 3rd Tuesday of each month. 10 – 12 noon at the Townhall, C/Sodbury. Guest Speaker every meeting, occasional lunches, day trips. Contact George for further info. Tele: 01454 882908 n Social tennis: Winterbourne recreational field, BS36 1LU. 7.3010pm. All ages, abilities and new members welcome.Contact WTC on 0772 595 4639. n Barnardo’s Breastfeeding Peer Support Project provides emotional and practical support to new mothers. Weekly groups are held at venues in Thornbury, Yate and across South Gloucestershire. The Yate group, called Yate BreastFriends, meets at Yate Childrens Centre on Cranleigh Court Road on Tuesdays between 11.30am - 1.00pm. n Ringcraft - dog showing skills and techniques. Every week at Henfield Hall, Ram Hill, Coalpit Heath - 8.0 - 9.15pm. Puppies and dogs - all breeds welcome. Contact Shelagh Crowther on 01453 298974 for more details. n Tudor Bridge Club meets at the

hall behind St Lawrence Presbytery on Broad Street, every Tuesday and Thursday at 7 p.m. Contact Christine on 07876 3334921, christinemay001@gmail.com for more details n Community Coffee Mornings, 2nd Tuesday of month, WADCA Community Centre, 10.30am 12.30pm. Tel. 01454 776268 n Monthly social lunchtime meet up for disabled people at the Farmhouse Pub, Wellington Road, Yate, BS37 5UY. Open and friendly group, meets first Tuesday of month 12-2pm. Part of WECIL's peer support community - 0797 962 6569. n Friendship and Dance group for over-50s takes a summer break after May 28 class, returning on September 24 at Miners Social Club, Badminton Road, Coalpit Health. Fourth Tuesday in the month from 2-4pm. No partner needed. Gentle exercise with easy circle dances to live music. More details from Hilary on 07515 351 813. n St Saviours church Mothers union meets second Tuesday of the month at 2pm in the church hall. Members welcome visitors to Bristol Cathedral and Ashfield

Learn to Line Dance!

Absolute Beginners starts September 2019 Thursday 5th September Iron Acton Parish Hall, 7:30pm Monday 9th September Zion Church Hall, Woodend Rd, Frampton Cotterell, 7:30pm - Improvers classes, 8:30pm No need to book * Just pay on the door

www.laughterinline.org

Find us on Facebook Laughterinline New dancers: Second class free if you bring this advert to your first class!

Do you need more storage space?

CALL JEFF NOW ON 07856 065 463 DO YOU NEED MORE STORAGE SPACE ?

FOR YOUR FREE SURVEY &

CALL

QUOTE OR BOOK ONLINE 0800 107 49 93 NOW

YOUR LOFT BOARDING AND ATTIC ACCESS SPECIALISTS

www.atticalertservices.co.uk

FOR YOUR FREE SURVEY & QUOTE OR BOOK ONLINE

YOUR LOFT BOARDING AND ATTIC ACCESS SPECIALISTS

ATTIC BOARDING

LOFT LADDERS

HATCHES & ACCESS

INSULATION UPGRADES

Email: contact@fromevalleyvoice.co.uk

fromevalleyvoice

32

July, 2019

n WHAT'S ON CONTINUED Prison, support a relief fund and overseas fund and send money to Friends of Bristol Children’s Hospital for tea and coffee for parents’ rooms. For more information contact Mary on 01454 887880.

Wednesday n Pre School Storytime.

Winterbourne Library10.30 - 11am, every week, term time only. n ‘Silver Chords Group, over 50’s social club. Every other Weds, Mason’s View Community Centre Winterbourne. 1.45pm.

Entertainment and coach trips.

Everyone welcome Contact Doreen 01454 776484. n Winterbourne Police Beat Post.

Greenfield Centre 2-3pm n Slimming World 7.30pm Frampton Cotterell Cof E School.

Tel Lisa 07815 759118 n Coalpit Heath WI. Church Hall of St Saviours Church, Coalpit Heath.

First Wednesday of each month.

7.45pm. New members welcome. n The Winterbourne Players, 8.00 pm, Community Centre, Watleys End Road. More info, Brian 07792 656689. n Actonians Drama Group 7.30 pm

Parish Hall, Iron Acton More info 01454 228760 www.actonians. co.uk. Junior Actonians 6.00 pm - 7.30 pm Parish Hall Iron Acton More info 01454 228277. n Carers group, Beacon Centre, Zion Church, Frampton Cotterell.

Meets second Wednesday of the month, 2pm-4pm. Call Rona on 01454 886925 or Jean on 01454 775786 for more information. n 4th Wednesday of each month - Forget me Not sing along group 2pm - 3.30 pm at The Beacon Centre, Zion Church, Frampton Cotterell. If you like a good sing song please come and join us.

For more information ring Rona on 886925 or Jean on 775786. n Winterbourne Short Mat Bowling Club Wednesday 1.30 - 4.30 and 7.30 - 10.30 at Winterbourne Community Centre, Watleys End Road. Contact Pat Sleightholme, 01179 793473. n Manor Hall community coffee morning, open to all, Henfield Road, Coalpit Heath. 3rd Wednesday of every month from 10am to 12 noon in the Jubilee Room. Free entry and all profits from the refreshments will go to the Manor Hall at Coalpit Heath

Will Writing & Estate Planning

A Will lets you protect your family’s inheritance and decide how your assets are shared out –

if you don’t make a Will, the law says who gets what.

We have a Bristol-based team of trained will writing consultants who provide a home visiting service and can take your instructions in the comfort of your own home.

Please feel free to call us during office hours on 0800 019 4557 or email us at info@elm-online. co.uk

Standard single or pair of mirrored Wills £99 To advertise, contact Richard on 01454 800 120

Charity. Handmade cards will be on sale, sold in aid of the BRACE Charity. n Slimming World Frampton Cotterell C of E School. Call Lisa: 07815759118 n Stapleton Probus meet on the 2nd & 4th Wednesdays of the month at Begbrook CA, Frenchay Park Road 10am -12noon. Also have an active Bowls Section.

Visitors Welcome. Details available, contact Registrar, Graham Godfrey 0117 965 7822 n The Frenchay Folk Dance Club meet fortnightly at Frenchay Village Hall from 7:45 until 10:15. Check frenchayfdc.co.uk or contact 0117 9409508 for more information n Social tennis ladies Doubles Winterbourne recreation field, BS36 1LU. 10am -12pm.

All ages and abilities , new members welcome Contact WTC: 07725954639 n Social tennis. Winterbourne recreation field, BS36 1LU. 7.30pm - 10.00pm. All ages and abilities ,new members welcome. Contact WTC: 07725954639 n Frampton Singalong is taking a break until September 11. Second Wednesday in the month, 2pm3.30pm at Crossbow House, School Road. Favourite songs, live music and sitting exercises. Call Hilary on 07515 351 813 for more details. n Yate/ Chipping Sodbury Afternoon Choir meets on Wednesdays 2pm to 4pm at St Marys Church Yate. No auditions required. Contact Nikki on 01761472468 for more details or just turn up at the church and have a free sing on the first visit. n Frenchay Probus Club. We meet every first and third Wednesday of the month in the Frenchay village hall. Coffee at 10.00am and the meeting is from 10.30 to 12.00. More details on frenchayprobusclub.com n Community Lunches 12.00 2pm at WADCA Community Centre. £5 or takeaway £3.50. Booking advised tel. 776268 n Frampton Cotterell Local History Society, 3rd Wednesday of month Sept - May, Zion church 7.30pm.

Non-members welcome. £4 n Ladies Circle meets at The Beacon, Zion United Church, Frampton Cotterell, every second and fourth Wednesday of each month except June, July and August at 7.30 pm. £3 per visit.

Variety of speakers at this friendly and welcoming group to any newcomers.

Thursday n Praise and Play. All Saints’

Church Hall Winterbourne Down 10-12 during term times. For preschool children and their parents/ carers. n Stay & Play, 1-3pm (termtime) Winterbourne Early Years Centre, Greenfield Centre, Park Ave, Winterbourne. Call Helen 01454 n Tiny Tots. 2.00-3.00pm,St Peter’s Church, n Bristol and South Gloucestershire Stationary Engine Club. First Thursday of the month, 7.45pm at the Miners Social Club, Coalpit Heath. More information at www.bsgsec.co.uk. n Winterbourne Musical Theatre.

7.30pm WADCA Community Centre, 7.30pm. www. winterbournemusical.co.uk. n Winterbourne Flower Club.

Our meetings take place tin St. Michaels rooms [opposite Tesco Filling Station] Hands on evenings and demonstrations on various Thursday evening at 7.30 pm Visitors and new members welcome. Ring for details 01454.

776753 n Winterbourne Evening Women’s Institute St. Michael’s Rooms in Winterbourne at 7.30pm on the second Thursday of every month except August n Crossbow Camera Club Crossbow House, 8pm, every Thursday (from September).

Contact Mike Challenger 07833316081 n Frampton Cotterell British Legion Club Ryecroft Road, Doors open @7.15pm. Bingo at 8pm10pm . No entry fee. All Welcome. n South Gloucestershire Arts Appreciation Society meet at Bradley Stoke Community School, Fiddlers Lane, Bradley Stoke, 3rd Thursday evening of the month.

Starting October at 7.00 for 7.30 start. Refreshments provided.

Contact: Sallykitching@ googlemail.com Tel. 01454 774401 n Sugarcraft demonstrations and workshops. Third Thursday of the month, 7.30pm-9.30pm at St Andrews Hall, Elm Park, Filton. Call Jean Kington on 0117 956 8737 for more information. n Winterbourne Short Mat Bowling Club Thursday 1.30 - 4.30 at Winterbourne Community Centre, Watleys End Road. Contact Pat Sleightholme, 01179 793473.

New members welcome. n Stationary Engine Club, Meets at Miner’s Club Coalpit Heath 7:30 pm first Thursday of every month. n Severn Counties Foreign & British Bird Society, for keepers of canaries, finches and other birds.

Winterbourne Down Methodist Church Hall, Down Road. Third

Email: contact@fromevalleyvoice.co.uk

fromevalleyvoice

July, 2019

33

n WHAT'S ON CONTINUED Thursday of the month at 8pm.

More information from Molly Durbin on 01275 373743 or email severncounties@gmail.com. n Tudor Bridge Club meets at the hall behind St Lawrence Presbytery on Broad Street, every Thursday and Tuesday at 7 p.m. Contact Christine on 078763334921, christinemay001@gmail.com for more details n Thursday Travel Club. Meets first Thursday of the month. St Saviour’s Church Hall, Beesmoor Road, Coalpit Heath n Winterbourne Winds, beginners/ intermediate/returners wind band, rehearse on Thursdays 7.30pm9.30pm at the Greenfield Centre, Park Avenue, Winterbourne BS36 1NJ. Brass and woodwind players wanted to join sociable group.

Instruments available for loan.

Contact Dan on 0117 239 5210 or email winterbournewinds@yahoo. com. n Winterbourne Down WI meet in All Saints Church Hall, BS36 1BX on the first Thursday of each month (except August) - 7.30pm. For more information contact Margaret on 01454 850241. New members are most welcome. n Avon Harmony are a Ladies A Cappella / barbershop chorus. We welcome visitors for a no obligation taster session. We rehearse at the dance studio, Fairfield High School, Allfoxton Road, Bristol BS7 9NL. Every Thursday evening 7.30pm 9.45pm. Tel: Mary 07954170532. n Hambrook Sports Club Crib team are looking for new members to join our winter league, playing Thursday evenings at 8.30.

Beginners welcome. Pre season

meeting 20th September at Hambrook Sports Club at 8:30. For further information contact Dave Manley on 07531299786 n Friendship and Dance for over 50s, no partner needed – note new venue and day. The Miner’s Welfare, Badminton Road, Coalpit Heath. Beautiful new wooden dance floor. Every 4th Tuesday in the month, 2pm-4pm. Gentle exercise with easy circle dances to live music. Suitable for beginners and improvers. Social break with refreshments £4. All welcome.

Further information contact Hilary Jay 07515 351 813 n CRASH (Children Really Are Special Here), 5.30pm-7pm term times, Zion United Church. Funfilled evening for primary school children with games, crafts, songs and stories. Costs £1 per week.

Contact Heidi on 01454 776618 or email childrenyouthz@gmail.com for more details. n Free baby and toddler group, Winterbourne Early Years Centre, Greenfield Centre, Park Avenue.

9.30am-11.30am, term time only. n Vale of Frome Probus for retired men meets monthly at the Miners Club, Coalpit Heath, on 2nd and 4th Thursdays of the month at 10.00am. Ladies invited four times a year. Speakers on various subjects and social events. More details at www.valeoffromeprobus. co.uk or contact Terry on 0117 956 4259.

Friday n Frome Valley Art Group Greenfield Centre, Winterbourne.

1pm to 4pm and 6.30pm to 9pm n Frampton Cotterell Male Voice Choir, Zion Church, Frampton

Cotterell. 7.30pm – 9.00pm. New members welcomed, no audition, search www.fcmvc.co.uk or email contact@fcmvc.co.uk.. n Frampton Cotterell Community Association. Fridays at Crossbow House School Road Ist Friday of every month Quiz- 3rd Friday of every month Bingo, start at 8 pm. n St Saviours Church Coalpit Heath. The Church opening every Friday meeting every 2nd and 4th Friday of the month but in the church hall. With a bring and buy lunch just bring something to go on the table to share, but tea and coffee will be provided from 11-15am till 1pm, Visitors are most welcome. n Frome Valley Art Group Winterbourne. Looking to find that inner talent or start a new interest? Drop in for a free taster session, Fridays at 2pm or 7pm.

We have a busy programme of demonstrations and Saturday workshops by professional artists to help your development. Our Annual exhibition in May displays members’ work . Greenfield Centre, Park Avenue, Winterbourne BS36 1NJ. Contact Dave: 0117 9790043 Andrew: 01454 778310. Eric: 01454 615619 Lesley: 01454 250817. Email fromevalleyartwinterbourne@gmail. com n Winterbourne Short Mat Bowling Club Friday evenings from 7.30 10.30 at Winterbourne Community Centre, Watleys End Road. Contact Pat Sleightholme 01179 793473 n Community Coffee Mornings, WADCA Community Centre, 10.30am - 12.30. All welcome. n St Peter's Church Frampton Cotterell invite you to Friday Coffee

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

WHAT IT IS WHERE IT IS WHEN IT IS in no more than 40 words: email us at: contact@ fromevalleyvoice.co.uk or call us on 01454 800 120 every Friday 10:00 -12:30. Come in and have a chat. n Lunches in St Saviours church hall, 11.15am for refreshments and midday for lunches. Donations to church funds. n Folk at Frampton Cotterell: Folk/ acoustic music club, Crossbow House, second Friday of the month from 8-11pm. More details from Andrew Edgington on 0797 415 1437.

Saturday n Brockeridge Quilters, Greenfield Centre, Winterbourne.

10am to 4pm, third Saturday of the month. n Frampton Cotterell Royal British Legion, Ryecroft Rd. Every Sat dancing to live bands.Bingo

What’s on at Winterbourne Library Staffed opening: Tuesdays: 10am-5pm Wednesdays: 10am-5pm Fridays: 10am-5pm Saturdays: 9.30am-12.30pm Open access (unstaffed) 8am-7.30pm daily WANTED Do you have any old or unwanted Duplo Lego? We would be grateful for any donations for a new Duplo club.

Rhymetime: Rhymes and songs for parents and babies/toddlers to enjoy together. Every Tuesday morning, 10.30-11am.

Pre-School Storytime: Join us for stories and simple crafts. Every Wednesday morning, 10.30-11am.

Lego Club: Listen to stories and poems, then create a model to display at the library.

Suitable for children in primary school age range, who must be accompanied by an adult.

Next meetings on August 3 and 31, from 10.30-11.30am.

Have you Read…? A new open reading group for all: No set text – Share your love of books, extend your reading horizons. First of every month, 11am-noon.

The Craft Group: Next meetings on Saturday August 10 & 24, 10am-noon. New members will always be made welcome by this friendly group. Share tips and ideas for your knitting, sewing or crochet projects.

Space Chase Summer Reading Challenge: Children have until Saturday September 14 to complete their mission. It’s free to take part – more details at www.southglos.gov.uk/ childrenslibrary The library will be hosting a series of reading challenge activities on Fridays during the

Got News? Call Richard 0n 01454 800 120

school holidays.

Out of this World Fizz Pop Science Workshop on August 9 has now sold out.

The others are: Space Explorers: August 16, 10.30am-noon.

Lego Challenge: August 23, 2-3pm. Booking required – limited places. Suitable for age 7+.

Space Junk: August 30, 10.30am-noon.

Free computer courses start in September on Mondays. For more information call Susannah Griffiths on 0117 909 2272, email susannah.griffiths@sgscol.ac.uk or ask at the library.

For more information: Telephone 01454 868006 Email winterbourne.library@southglos.gov.uk Website: www.southglos.gov.uk/libraries Twitter: @southgloslibs Facebook: South Gloucestershire Libraries

Email: contact@fromevalleyvoice.co.uk

fromevalleyvoice

34

n WHAT'S ON 8pm-8.30pm Then dancing until until 11.30pm. Entry on door £5.

Everyone Welcome. n Winterbourne Tennis Club Junior tennis coaching. 9.30 -1pm, Winterbourne recreation field, BS36 1LU. All ages 3-16 yrs. Rusty Racquets/Drill-Drill Group Coaching for adults of all abilities 11.30am12-30pm. £5 pay and play. Contact Imed (club coach) 07459636436 or imedhamroumi@msn.com n Connectz, meets 3.30pm5.30pm every 2nd Saturday, Zion United Church. Fun activities for families, followed by a meal. See www.zuchurch.co.uk or email childrenyouthz@gmail.com for more details Sunday n Japanese Embroidery Class Greenfield Centre, Winterbourne 9.30am to 4pm, (monthly).

Contact: Jo Tripp 01454 850147. n Nature Reserves, Winterbourne work party meets 1030am, Church Lane, Winterbourne, 2nd & 4th Sundays in the month. Newleaze reserve (Bristol Road) 10.30am Ist Sunday of month. Huckford Quarry 2.30pm 3rd Sunday of month.

Contact Frank Smith 01454 778975. n Indoor short mat bowls at Pucklechurch Community Centre.

Established players and beginners welcome. Bowls provided. Sessions Sunday afternoon and Monday and Wednesday evenings. Contact Roger Payne 0117 937 3653 n Parish Praise at St Saviours Church, first Sunday of the month at 10am. Suitable for all ages – come and join in with the family praise and stay for coffee or tea afterwards if you wish. See the Church website for up to date information. Coalpitheath.org.uk/ social or coalpitheath.org.uk/news

July, 2019

n NEWS

Library celebrates milestone WINTERBOURNE Library hosted a series of celebrations to mark its 50th anniversary.

Long-time user Anne Dunmur cut a birthday cake with new library supervisor Deb Wright at a party at the library in Flaxpits Lane at the end of June.

Celebrations included singing from St Michael’s C of E Primary School choir, music from1960s, a display of photos and archives from the past 50 years, a vintage cream tea and a sold-out evening performance

by The Red Herrings of a murder mystery.

For more details on the latest events at the library, see our What’s On section on page 33.

Grow for show YOU don't need to be an expert gardener to enter Winterbourne Down & District Horticultural Society's annual flower and vegetable show.

The show, which takes place on the afternoon of August 17 at the Greenfield Centre in Park Avenue, also features homecraft sections for baking and jam making and a popular photographic section, with plenty of categories to choose between.

The show is open so anyone can enter and organisers are encouraging anyone with a garden or allotment to consider an entry for the flower, fruit and veg sections.

Gill Parker from the society said: "Lots of entries make a good and colourful show and you don't need to worry if your entries aren't absolutely perfect! We want to encourage new growers – and also people who haven't exhibited before."

For a schedule, call Richard on 01454 773218.

One to one grooming service, Engine Common, Yate using all natural grooming products Refill centre for Wildwash products Also offering a dog walking service Fully insured and trained CALL US FOR AN APPOINTMENT TO DISCUSS YOUR REQUIREMENTS ON:

01454 227377 or 07717883563 thewaggywash@gmail.com

To advertise, contact Richard on 01454 800 120

FRAMPTON TAXIS ALL UK AIRPORTS, PORTS & STATIONS COVERED 4, 5 & 6 SEATERS AVAILABLE Executive Hire now available LADY DRIVER AVAILABLE ON REQUEST

For a Friendly Prompt Service call or e-mail

01454 279517 07960 067 767

framptontaxis@tiscali.co.uk www.framptontaxis.co.uk

Email: contact@fromevalleyvoice.co.uk

fromevalleyvoice

July, 2019

35

n RECIPE OF THE MONTH

Blissful – or should I say blooming?

– summer IT’s a well-known fact that the English are never happy about the weather. It’s too hot, it’s too cold, it’s too dry, it’s too wet none of which pleased everyone!

The thing is that when it IS hot, no one wants to spend ages in a hot kitchen. On one such hot day, I met a lovely lady called Phyllis in a local supermarket. She looked fed up and simply said to me “Why do we have to cook?”

So, especially for Phyllis and all the other lovely like-minded people out there, here is a fresh, vibrant recipe which will not only delight your taste buds, but is ready to eat in 20 minutes from the moment you enter the kitchen.

Perfect!

Indian Summer Chicken Pilaf Serves 2

Ann Murray is from the Cooking4 Cookery School based in Chipping Sodbury.

She’s teamed up with Frome Valley Voice to pass on her wealth of experience in the kitchen. *Basmati rice – 150g or 1 cup *Greek yoghurt – 150g *Fresh mint – a good handful, leaves finely chopped, plus extra for serving *Mango chutney – 2-3 tbsps, according to your taste *Red eating apple – 1, cored and chunkily chopped To serve – pomegranate seeds and toasted flaked almonds Here’s what you do:

Ingredients: *Onion – 1, roughly chopped *Vegetable oil – 1 tbsp *Skinless and boneless chicken thighs – 4, cut into quarters *Korma curry paste – 4 tbsps

1. Pre-heat a medium-size frying pan. Add the oil and once hot add the onion. Cook for about mins until softened.

2. Add the chicken thighs. Cook

for about 10 mins until golden and almost cooked through.

3. Meanwhile, cook the rice and leave to cool. (Remember never leave cooked rice for more than 90mins at room temperature for food safety reasons.)

texture. Add the apples at this point to allow them to soften slightly.

4. Once the chicken is nearly cooked add the Korma paste and stir to coat the pieces of chicken.

Add the rice. Then add 3 tbsps of water and stir again to coat everything with the curry paste.

7. Serve in 2 attractive dishes.

Sprinkle the pomegranate seeds and the almonds over the tops.

Add a sprig of mint.

8. Serve immediately with green beans or sugar snap peas.

5. Turn up the heat. Add the yoghurt, mint, mango chutney, and salt and pepper to taste.

Cook’s Tip

6. Stir then leave to cook for 2-3 mins so the bottom has a crispy

*Try using fresh apricot or mangoes instead of apples.

Steve Bellamy Carpets •Home selection carpet and vinyl’s •Huge selection of carpets and vinyl chosen in the comfort of your own home •Free quotations without obligation to purchase •No pressure selling •Professional service established for over 30 years •All inclusive prices, no hidden extras, the price quoted is the price you pay

www.doorexpresssouthwest.co.uk

Got News? Call Richard 0n 01454 800 120

Tel: 07860 441776 or 0117 2565994

LOW OVERHEADS = LOWER PRICES

We will better any like for like all inclusive quote

Email: contact@fromevalleyvoice.co.uk

fromevalleyvoice

36

July, 2019

n NEWS FROM METRO MAYOR

Helping to get our region moving WESTMINSTER might have been slightly distracted by the leadership contest to choose the next Prime Minister but I’m still working with our leaders to plough ahead with plans to improve our region with the funding we’ve already received from Government.

Last month’s public meeting in Bath saw multi-million pound plans to improve where we live agreed by all the leaders in the West of England Combined Authority, marking a major step forward for the region. We signed off £3.5m to press ahead with plans to improve our railway network with seven new train stations and more frequent services across the region. We also approved big plans to expand the metrobus network between Bristol Parkway and Cribbs Causeway, connecting even more communities to the increasingly popular service.

We’re also seeing investment in

new environmentally friendly biogas buses on the M1 route connecting Bishopsworth to Bedminster and Frenchay to Patchway as part of plans to introduce nearly 100 biogas buses to our bus network.

We’re being ambitious to build a better transport network to get you where you need to be.

We are looking to agree £1.3m to develop more-detailed plans for an innovative mass transit system for the region. This funding will help explore the routes across the region including connections to the airport. It will also assess different types of vehicle as new technology continues to emerge.

This is a long-term plan but I’m a firm believer in being ambitious because as our region keeps growing, we must embrace a range of options to meet the needs of the future.

We must also make travelling on public transport easier for everyone by simplifying the

ticketing system. I have long thought that we should look to London as a prime example where you can travel by bus and train using a single ticket and payment option to cover the whole journey. For example, a resident in Keynsham could use the same ticket to take the train into Bristol and then a metrobus towards Cribbs Causeway. Offering the option

to use contactless cards will also help reduce bus boarding times and mean that there will be no more worrying about having the correct change before travel.

Ultimately, each investment is vital to connect people to work, loved ones and leisure activities and further reduce our region’s carbon emissions.

Tim Bowles

Contractor sacked for data breach

Tea at Paul's Place VOLUNTEERS from Sainsbury's Emersons Green store spent the day gardening before helping members of a Coalpit Heath day centre host a cream tea.

Paul’s Place in Serridge Lane is the only charity specifically supporting adults with any physical, sensory and cognitive impairment in South Gloucestershire and the rest of the Bristol area.

It caters for adults aged 18 to 59 and will celebrate its 25th anniversary next year.

To advertise, contact Richard on 01454 800 120

A CONTRACTOR has been sacked for accessing and passing on personal information held by South Gloucestershire Council.

The incident was the most serious of 184 data security breaches at the authority in the past year – up by 46 per cent on 2017/18, when there were 126.

A report to the council’s cabinet said two serious data breaches were reported to the Information Commissioner’s Office by the council. The ICO also received seven complaints about the council from the public.

The first serious breach “involved a third party employee who accessed and disclosed personal information without authority,” said the report, adding: “The employee was dismissed and the incident was reported to both the ICO and the police.

“The ICO judged that dismissal was an appropriate and proportionate sanction against the contractor, and no further action required.”

In the second case, “accidental disclosure of highly sensitive data about an individual to another individual” had been due to human error.

The report said: “In this case the ICO was satisfied that we had taken reasonable action to investigate and prevent similar breaches happening in the future, that we had complied with the law and the breach was due to human error.

“No enforcement action was taken.”

Email: contact@fromevalleyvoice.co.uk

fromevalleyvoice

July, 2019

37

n NEWS FROM FLORAL FRIENDS OF FRAMPTON Flowers at Woodend

the sensory garden, including members of the computer club on their coffee break. It’s a lovely place to relax in.

THE flowers along the Woodend/Beesmoor strip, pictured, continue to look wonderful, thanks to the care of FFF volunteers. We particularly want to thank two local families who give us access to their water supply, making our job of watering and maintaining the border much easier.

This herbaceous flower border has about 30 different types of plant flowering in June and July, and we have a free family I-Spy activity for you – download the quiz leaflet from our website. Why not take a closer look at the border and spot some of the colourful garden flowers there? Remember: for safety, stay inside the playing field fence and do not attempt this activity from the road.

Could you help?

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: •C ould you spare a few minutes regularly? Help to maintain a planter (at this time of year this means watering and deadheading).

•C ould you spare a couple of hours twice a year (late spring and autumn)? Help us to replenish the plants in the planters in spring and autumn.

•N o time? Donations are always very welcome.

If you have a business in the area, you may like to consider sponsoring a planter or gateway for an annual fee, with a plaque fixed to the planter/gateway it’s cheaper than most other forms of advertising!

Sensory Garden The sensory garden at the Brockeridge Centre is flourishing. Local bees and insects have been making good use of all the flowering plants, including all the herbs.

The seeds sown by the toddlers group in the raised vegetable planters have grown: lettuce, radish and peas have been harvested, along with strawberries and raspberries which were planted last year. Beans and winter squash have just been sown and the toddlers will plant more seeds over the next few weeks, leading,

hopefully, to vegetables and salads to harvest in the autumn. Well done, everyone!

It’s great to see other local residents enjoying

Got News? Call Richard 0n 01454 800 120

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

Remember, all our latest news is available online at bit.ly/2FGmLq7.

Email: contact@fromevalleyvoice.co.uk

fromevalleyvoice

38

July, 2019

n COMMUNITY NEWS

Coalpit Heath WI IT was eyes down for a full house during our meeting this month. One of our members had organised a fun games night for us all, starting with table top games like Scrabble, Connect 4, draughts and a film quiz. Then it was time for

Frampton Cotterell WI IT’S been a very hectic and enjoyable summer so far, with plenty of events on to keep us all busy and entertained.

WI members really enjoyed our summer meal at the White Horse at Hambrook on June 26 – delicious food and a very cosy setting, along with great company, made for a very pleasant evening.

On July 13 we were at the

a hotly-contested game of bingo, complete with traditional calls – well, mostly! It was an enjoyable evening and one to repeat in the future.

Members also turned out to support several local events recently and we had stalls at Beesmoor Road dog show and

Frampton Festival again with our WI cake stand, which went down well – gin and tonic cupcakes, flapjacks, Victoria sponges and chocolate brownies were amongst the goodies on offer, as baked by our members. We also ran a popular second-hand book sale this year from the stall, to add some variety and attract interest.

It was a wonderful weekend all round, as the following day, we had a members’ visit and tour of

To advertise, contact Richard on 01454 800 120

picnic, St Saviour’s church fair and the Manor School Summer festival. It was a good opportunity to share our new leaflets advertising our WI. We are very fortunate that one of members was able to design these for us, using the new logo voted for by the members.

We have also been busy recycling plastic bottles.

Using old paints, scissors and plenty of creativity, the bottles have been transformed into some beautiful flowers, all ready to be displayed beside our banners along the Badminton Road. We hope you enjoy them over the summer.

Members have been offered other opportunities to keep themselves busy, with bonus sessions available at an escape room in Bristol and a pottery painting session. The greenfingered members will also be helping out revamping the WI flower bed at the Manor Hall, ready

Berkeley Castle – the weather was perfect and we had the chance to meet Jackie Lantelli and Sadie Kitchen, the sisters who created the amazing wire sculptures that are currently on display in the castle and grounds.

For our July talk, Fabiola Doano came along to introduce us to Spanish for beginners – and as well as the normal tea & cake, that evening we put on a little tapas and sangria to help get the Spanish language flowing freely. Again, we were very lucky to have a warm evening for the event, and so even the weather was a little Spanish, right on cue!

There is no talk in August, however we’ll be holding a cheese and wine social evening for members towards the end of the month. Events later in the year include a Zumba workshop in September and a craft evening and bingo night in the autumn.

Visitors and new members are welcome to our monthly meetings at St Peter’s Hall on School Road

for their Apple Day in October.

If our meetings feel like something that you would like to be a part of, then why not come along? We meet on the first Wednesday of every month at 7.45pm, in St Saviours Church Hall. New members are always welcome. Our August meeting is a talk by Bob Aden, about the people of Bletchley Park.

To find out a bit more about us why not search @WICoalpitHeath on Facebook?

Caroline Johnston

at 7.45pm, on the fourth Tuesday of the month. There is a charge of £2.50 for the evening and any new members can also join by paying a membership fee.

Special interest groups that meet separately including a book club, craft group, choir and our skittles and darts teams. Please search for @FramptonCottWI on Facebook to find out more and to like our page.

Email: contact@fromevalleyvoice.co.uk

fromevalleyvoice

July, 2019

39

n COMMUNITY NEWS Building new homes...for bats CONTRARY to their image as blood-sucking horrors, our most common native bats, pipistrelles, are tiny creatures – only a few centimetres long and weighing as little as a 20 pence piece. They eat only small insects, which they catch on the wing: up to 3,000 in a single night. But according to the RSPB, bats are having a tough time, because many of their natural roosting places are being damaged or destroyed. Bat boxes help, by giving them somewhere safe to raise their pups and to sleep during the day.

Over a sunny Friday evening and Saturday morning, a keen band of woodworkers built 10 brand new bat boxes, using mostly hand tools. Many of these new homes will end up on greenbelt land near to the Frome but hopefully they won’t attract too many protests!

Each of our boxes was made from a single plank of untreated rough-sawn wood, sawn into pieces then screwed back together

roof, planed so that it slots neatly into a chiselled recess.

Hopefully all the builders, children and adults alike, learnt some new skills or enjoyed exercising ones they already had.

Despite the variety of techniques in use, everybody who came completed their box.

We hope the bats like them, too, and that we can all enjoy seeing a little more wildlife in the village. According to the experts, it seems that more bat boxes might be good – and wooden homes for other animals too.

If you’d like to be involved, please contact Village Action at framcottva@hotmail.co.uk, or leave a message at the Brockeridge Centre on 01454 864442.

We were able to do the build session at no cost thanks to Nisa, who provided the wood, Zion church, who allowed us to use their hall and car park, and all the builders who put in their work.

into a basic box shape. Into the back we cut a nifty “bat ladder” to help the new residents climb up,

through a two centimetre slot, into the warm dry interior. Topping off each box we added a stylish sloped

Martin Young Frampton Cotterell Village Action

ESTABLISHED 1968

GAS CENTRAL HEATING - CALL NOW FOR A FREE QUOTATION

Open Saturdays morning 9-1 pm

We have been installing Gas Central Heating in Bristol for over 50 years and offer the following services by our fully trained staff at competitive prices and to a very high standard • Full Heating Systems - Designed & Installed • Boiler Changes • Replacement Radiators • Gas Cooker and Hob installations • Worcester accredited company and can offer a 7-10 year guarantee on all Worcester boilers • Gas fire and boiler servicing and repairs • Installation of wooden and marble fireplaces gas and electric fires and electric suites and all necessary building and electrical works to allow these fireplaces to be installed PROUD MEMBER OF

VISIT OUR FIRE AND SURROUND SHOWROOM 41 VICTORIA STREET, STAPLE HILL, BRISTOL BS16 5JP TELEPHONE 0117 956 4797 Email: heat@anchecker.co.uk Website www.anchecker.co.uk

1835

HEATING BRISTOL HOMES FOR OVER 49 YEARS Got News? Call Richard 0n 01454 800 120

Email: contact@fromevalleyvoice.co.uk

Y

fromevalleyvoice

40

July, 2019

n MOTORING

A guide to pre-owned cars with Richard Cooke

Second-hand Style Le Mans special: Part 2 RIGHT, things you should know about Le Mans if you are considering going in 2020: 1) Throw away all previous experiences you may have had at British racing circuits. Le Mans is incredibly well organised, laid out and presented. This is no old WW2 airfield hastily converted into a track and left to fester for 70 years. Yes Silverstone, I’m looking right at you.

There aren’t even any queues to get into the place, which is on the edge of the fair-sized town that lends its name to the race. The facilities are clean and on the whole excellent.

2) It is a well-priced weekend. My ticket for Friday to Monday was €75. Camping was the same again, staying as we did inside the track and about 15 minutes’ walk to the action. Food and drink aren’t even that expensive, although the quality isn’t what you might expect from the French. Make sure you like Kronenberg or, better still, bring your own.

3) You need earplugs. Yes, the cars are loud but

the other punters are louder, especially the Scandinavians and the Dutch. If you want any sleep, you’ll need to block them out somehow.

4) If, like me, you are a white British male aged between 35 and 70, you will blend right in. I reckon 50% of the crowd are Brits, followed by the French and Dutch/Belgian/German contingent. You know that rather homogenous crowd who guffaw behind the presenters on Top Gear and The Grand Tour? Same crowd at Le Mans – take ‘em or leave ‘em.

But what about the racing? Well, that’s the draw, and of course it’s ace. The track is so big (an 8 mile circuit) and your access to watch it so unfettered that you should never get bored.

Pre-race testing starts early on the Saturday, and I immediately became entranced with the GT class. Yes, the LMP (LeMans Prototype) cars are faster and far more exotic but they bear no relation whatsoever to road cars. The GT cars, on the other hand, are like steroidal examples of cars you and I, given the money, can go and

buy – BMW M8s, Chevy Corvettes, Ferrari 488s, 911s, Aston Martin Vantages and Ford GTs. Le Mans heroes with real pedigree, in other words.

Toyota brought home a second victory in a row for the LMP class, but British driver James Calado won the GT class in a 488. If you can stomach the early start, go and stand on the pit wall at 4am and watch the crews changing an exhausted gearbox or drive shaft mid-race. In the relative dark, the mechanicals glow bright orange from the heat – incredible.

The French have the luxury of attending as day trippers, which I envy. They also don’t have to race for a ferry or Eurotunnel train on the way home. And it was on the return journey that I came unstuck. I noticed that the Lexus, pictured, was using more fuel than it should be from Folkestone onto the M25 and then the M4 but my exhausted brain put it to one side. Just get home. And then at 10pm, just past Chieveley Services (typical) it did what it has never done before and broke down. I dumped it and got the AA to take a look the next day – after over 2 hours of effort patrolman Todd out of Swindon (who is my new best friend) diagnosed a faulty motor in the throttle body. He also fixed it, albeit temporarily. How long would it last, I asked? He guessed anywhere between a week and a year.

After standing by a motorway for two hours the previous night, this was disconcertingly vague.

And because the GS300 is now officially an obsolete car that is no longer made, Lexus have in their grasping wisdom monopolised throttle body part supply and wanted £1k for something that must have cost all of £20 to produce.

There was no way I was going spend that much on a part for a car worth about £1,500. But then again, and rather ironically, I had no idea what to replace the Lexus with...

Next month: Stick or Twist?

Advertise your business in Frome Valley Voice email contact@fromevalleyvoice.co.uk To advertise, contact Richard on 01454 800 120

Email: contact@fromevalleyvoice.co.uk

fromevalleyvoice

July, 2019

41

n INTERCHANGE BLOG

Perfect picnics for hot summer days WHAT better way to celebrate the summer months than with some tips on where to go and hints on how to make the most of eating outdoors?

WHILST we don’t always get the weather or the opportunity to enjoy a picnic in the UK, when the sun is smiling it’s one of the most simple ways to enjoy a few hours out.

Picnics are a throw-back from the mid 18th-century, when the French used to dine outside. A bottle of wine, a loaf of bread and some cheese, and voila!

Let’s start with some places to visit for that perfect picnic in North Bristol.

Places to picnic There are dozens to choose from, but here are a few of our favourites: *Blaise Castle, Henbury – Loads of outdoor space, so not a chance that your picnic blanket will bump into someone’s else. There’s a large play park, small café and a good amount of free parking. There’s also fantastic woodland walks and the castle and the museum to explore.

More details online at bit.ly/2ss7IJe. *Leigh Woods, Clifton – Leigh Woods boasts tranquil woods, great views of the gorge, its own picnic area and plenty to explore on bike or foot. More details online at bit.ly/2JpClJa. *Old Down Country Park, near Tockington – An award-winning attraction set in the countryside.

You can enjoy 66 acres of open space, gardens, woodlands and spend hours of fun in our play areas with jumping pillow, an adventure playground, trampolines, and more. More details online at bit.ly/2JBNjcJ. *Mundy Playing Fields, Thornbury

– With a large open green space, play equipment, football pitches, tennis courts and a new children’s splashpad, a picnic will be just one part of a lovely day out here.

Picnic tips *Jam jars are great for salad dressings, salt and pepper and more *Put ice cubes in a Thermos flask: they won’t melt and you can have cold drinks all day! *Pack right: Wicker baskets may look beautiful but they’re not always practical. Try using an insulated bag with compartments instead. *Take an umbrella. Even if it doesn’t rain, they’re great for keeping the shade off your cool bag. *Take a cutting board. A small board will be very useful for slicing, dicing and dividing.

Picnic facts *The word picnic is derived from the French pique-nique. *The average person picnics at least three times per year – there are an estimated 94 million in the country each year.

*The average family spends £26 per picnic. *The most popular picnic item used to be a cheese sandwich: it’s now a bag of crisps.

A final thought…leave only footprints. Make sure you pack up your rubbish and take it with you.

Follow us on

@_TheInterchange

Read more great stories on www.theinterchange.blog Family, community, lifestyle and entertainment in North Bristol

Got News? Call Richard 0n 01454 800 120

@TheInterchange.SouthGlos @interchangesg

Email: contact@fromevalleyvoice.co.uk

fromevalleyvoice

42

July, 2019

n THOUGHT FOR THE MONTH

What is our calling in life? Friendship I WAS asked to preach recently with the theme: what is our calling in life? It all sounds rather grand, and it's the sort of thing that you'd expect a 'church minister' to talk about. But in truth it's a key question for us all. What are the things that make life feel meaningful and good? What gets us out of bed in the morning?

(For me this is basically nothing...I am NOT a morning person, I only feel called to more bed in the morning!!)

Of course our calling depends on the stage of life we are at. But I do think there are some principles.

Strangely I would summarise these as fun and friendship! For instance, a child at school is called to have fun. Now I realise that they also need to learn stuff, but relationships and friendships and family are often the key that unlocks fulfilment and potential.

When kids aren't enjoying life, something is seriously wrong.

Indeed, I would add that for all of us a massive part of our calling is to love and enjoy those around us. While I don't like some of the nuances that attend the phrase,

'charity begins at home' (it may begin there but for most it shouldn't end there), certainly it is true that a big part of our calling is to love and enjoy our friendships, families and work colleagues.

Doing stuff that we enjoy is great, but if we do stuff we enjoy and help someone else as well, isn't that a double blessing?

I suspect most would agree with this, but perhaps you think that this doesn't sound like a very 'grand' calling. Surely as a minister I should be 'saving' something or someone! Well, in my view, no one ever got saved without friendship.

Friends, real friends, help us to discover who we are and unlock our often hidden aptitudes. To cherish the people around you and invest in them becoming their best is at the heart of our calling. If you want to think deeper then these ideas of friendship are mirrored in the best understandings of faith.

The first statement from the Westminster Confession 1647, a very ancient 'confession' from my faith tradition, asks: “What is the chief and highest end of man?”

Answer: “Man’s chief and

highest end is to glorify God, and fully to enjoy him forever.”

Obviously here the friendship and enjoyment is with God rather than with people, but it is definitely about enjoyment and relationship.

I realise some struggle to understand and grasp the whole relationship with God idea. I suppose that is understandable, especially when we have often painted God in such an unfriendly light. However, I argue that we discover our true calling in radical friendship. Perhaps if I paint friendship with God as friendship with the world he has made, some will find that easier. We discover ourselves when we offer friendship to whatever and whoever God places in front of us, especially when that friendship takes on the form of going the extra mile, or turning the other cheek, or dancing with joy at a beautiful sunset, or choosing to live more gently in our world.

So discover your calling in life by developing your friendships: enjoy them, cherish them, be interested in them. What better time to do that than over the

Stephen Newell Pastor, Zion United Church, Frampton Cotterell summer? Why not go the extra mile and invite someone round, share a drink, enjoy a few laughs?

If you know someone isolated or lonely, pop over or send a card and, dare I say it, think whether there is something that you can enjoy about God or his wonderful world. If so, enjoy it!

n COMMUNITY NEWS

Crossbow Choir celebrates the holidays ONCE again Crossbow Choir sang to a full hall on both Monday 1st and Tuesday 2nd July. This summer concert, That Holiday Feeling, had probably the best audience participation for a long time – with everyone joining in with well-known choruses, and the songs on the printed sheets. It was lovely to hear, and the atmosphere in the hall on both evenings was that of fun and general enjoyment.

The songs, taken from a range of decades, covered all things relating to, and making holidays special – so why wouldn’t we all like to go Up Up and Away, to Wonderful Copenhagen for a Summer Holiday under Blue Skies, to The Sound of Music when we could Climb Every Mountain? To name but a few!

Solos by Mary telling us of her Island of Dreams, Shirley with Bali Hi, and Bob extolling the virtues of Devon, created beautiful interludes to the choral

pieces. The first ever nonet with Louise, Chris, Nell, Sue, Eric, Anthony, Dave, Bob and Simon delighted everyone with a beautiful rendition of Linden Lea – a capella no less.

The new platforms, allowing the singers to be tiered, made the sound carry even further and allowed everyone to see our Musical Director, Carolyn. These stage blocks were made by three men of the choir, Dave, Hamish and Bob who masterminded the project. Our sincere thanks also go to Jon Gilbert Carpets, who kindly donated the carpet covering the blocks, so that they not only looked attractive but were safe too. Thank you Jon. Mary, our brilliant piano accompanist, was unfortunately out of action due to hip surgery, but Anthony, a valued tenor member of Crossbow, played for all our practices and on the two evenings and did a grand job – thank you Anthony – and we

To advertise, contact Richard on 01454 800 120

look forward to welcoming Mary back in the autumn.

Rosie, as always, made a magnificent and entertaining job as MC, with her readings and Pam Ayres poems. Again adding so much to the variety of the concert.

But Crossbow Singers would be lost without Carolyn, our Musical Director, who makes every practice a joy, with her enthusiasm and encouragement.

Whilst she is conducting the singers Carolyn has a beaming

smile on her face, which is infectious and makes us want to sing out. Not only does she do so many of the songs’ arrangements for four-part harmony herself, and knows all the parts, but Carolyn has the patience and temperament of a saint!

Please put the dates for our Christmas concert on the 9th and 10th December in your diaries, and come along and start the Christmas festivities with us.

Diane Rix

Email: contact@fromevalleyvoice.co.uk

fromevalleyvoice

July, 2019

43

n NEWS

Climate emergency declared AUTHORITIES in the region have declared a “climate emergency” committing them to cut carbon emissions.

The West of England Combined Authority, which makes strategic planning, transport and investment decisions for the region, followed South Gloucestershire, Bristol and B&NES councils in passing a motion on July 19.

The announcement was greeted with a standing ovation from the public gallery at Bristol’s City Hall and came on a week when the city was brought to a standstill by activists from the Extinction Rebellion environmental protest group.

The unanimous vote by metro mayor Tim Bowles, Bristol Mayor Marvin Rees and council leaders Toby Savage and Dine Romero commits the region to meeting the Government’s target of zero net carbon emissions by 2030.

Mr Bowles said Weca’s energy strategy would be a “key tool” in seeking more government cash to deliver carbon neutrality.

Speaking after the South Gloucestershire Council declaration, two days before the Weca vote, council leader Toby Savage said all parties had worked together to “address this important topic which transcends party politics”.

He said: “This Council has made significant steps towards decreasing its carbon emissions in the past few years, reducing our emissions by half over the past decade and of that we can all be very proud, but with more and more conclusive physical evidence and academic research highlighting the intensifying problem, there is a clear need to do more, and quicker.”

Frampton Cotterell Lib Dem councillor Claire Young, who proposed the motion to South Gloucestershire, said: “I’m extremely pleased that the council has taken this important step and I am grateful to the other parties for seconding the motion and agreeing to tackle this problem together."

Extinction Rebellion activists blocked Bristol Bridge for several days during July and also brought traffic on the M32 and Avon Ring Road to a halt with protests.

Police have charged 16 people, from Hampshire, Devon, Cornwall, Somerset and Gloucestershire, with wilfully obstructing a public highway in connection with the protests.

WE'RE ONLINE TOO!

Sport Reports:

Tell us your team news at contact@fromevalleyvoice.co.uk

Tree Planting Crown Inspection and Maintenance Branch Shortening/Removal Tree Reduction and Thinning Felling / Sectional Felling Hedge Trimming and Reduction Local Authority Planning If there is anything you need to discuss or for free estimates or a quote, please contact Mike Tucker on 07817218817, or email arbtreeworks@gmail.com 12 years experience - Qualified and Insured

For the best in eye care Full eye examinations and retinal photography Qualified optometrists and dispensing opticians A wide range of glasses available in store Call today to book an appointment

01454 775530

3 Whitegates, Flaxpits Lane, Winterbourne BS36 1JX

Got News? Call Richard 0n 01454 800 120

Email: contact@fromevalleyvoice.co.uk

fromevalleyvoice

44

n SPORT WINTERBOURNE Tennis Club is championing a scheme to get more girls involved in tennis.

WTC initiated the She Rallies activities for girls in conjunction with the PE department of Winterbourne Academy. The scheme is part of the Lawn Tennis Association’s four-year Women and Girls Strategy, promoted by Judy Murray, which aims to significantly increase female participation in tennis across the UK. WTC committee chair, Joan Ward, got in touch with Melanie Greaves, PE teacher and head of year 11, about the programme and by the end of April, the programme was running for Terms 5 and 6.

The activities were predominantly run for year 7-11 girls during PE lessons and was overseen by WTC coach Imed Hamrouni. Over the 12 week program, 380 girls took part – and 105 boys were also able to get a taste for the game, learning new basic tennis techniques and game play at WTC. The programme resulted in a

July, 2019

Tennis club scheme rallies young female players lunchtime club on a Thursday for both girls and boys, and Monday after-school tennis sessions that attracted up to 20 students at a time. The arrangement was so successful that there are now plans for Winterbourne Academy to access the club on a regular basis for tennis sessions during PE lessons.

The overall response from the girls was very positive, with some even playing tennis over weekends and planning to play over the holidays.

Eva Emmett (year 7) said she enjoyed the activity immensely and was hoping to take up tennis as a sport. Kali Buffery (year 10) said it was one of the best PE activities she had done so far and Alisha Dickson (year 8) enjoyed the tennis techniques she learned and being outdoors in the sunshine.

Clare Savage of Avon Tennis donating tennis balls and racquets to Winterbourne Academy PE Department in support of the She Rallies Programme.

D OO ST L F RU CA N T LO U CA YO

A big thank you to everybody who made this outreach such a great success, especially Imed Hamrouni, Rachel Cockcroft (local tennis and swimming coach), Jazz Williams (A-level student and level 1 coach), Melanie Greaves and her colleagues from the PE Department.

Finally, well done and thank you to all the students for their

enthusiastic participation.

WTC will be running Tennis camps for all aspiring tennis players of varying abilities, ages 5-16 during the school holidays until August 9.

To book and for more information contact Winterbourne Tennis club at 0745 963 6436 or email imedhamrouni@msn.com.

Elsa Looij

Frampton prepare for new season The Game Specialists • GAME PIES • PHEASANT PARCELS WILD BOAR & VENISON • FRESH LOCAL GAME • RABBITS From field to shop

MOLESWORTHS 147 Church Road, BS36 2JX 01454 777 337

framptonbutchers@outlook.com

To advertise, contact Richard on 01454 800 120

PRE-season training has started in earnest at Frampton Cotterell RFC. Up to 40 players a time are attending sessions held on Tuesdays and Thursdays, while off the pitch the club has had excellent help from the Fram family, especially colts and ladies, to clear up the old changing rooms ready for renovation.

The old block is being revamped to provide specific changing rooms for the club's women's and girls' team and some storage space for equipment.

Fundraising efforts centred around a cider festival and gin bar with live bands held at the end of June.

Meanwhile club veterans Pete Zaffiro, Mike Weaver and Tim Phillips, who have all played more than 800 senior games for the club, featured in an article by national magazine Rugby World which focussed on their achievement at the club.

Email: contact@fromevalleyvoice.co.uk

fromevalleyvoice

July, 2019

45

n NEWS

Get fitter and have fun with badminton ARE you considering getting fitter, alongside having some sporting fun, by playing badminton at the Winterbourne Community Centre?

The badminton club plays twice weekly, on Monday and Tuesday evenings from 8-10pm, and is open to all who are aged 16 or over.

Both men and women are welcome to join the club, and potential members are encouraged to come along and give it a try.

Games are both competitive and social, and the current age range of club players, ranges from teenagers to those of pensionable age.

Joining will give you the opportunity to make some new friends, and to participate in some social events held during the year.

It is also an ideal way to lose some weight!

Anyone who is interested can contact Rob Britton on 01454 775050 or Alison Bradley 07594 691 900, for more information about the club.

Proud Main Sponsors of

Yate Town Football Club Photo: Š Guy’s Photography Ltd

Your local Business IT Specialists Tel: 0800 091 32 52

www.orchard-computers.com To advertise, contact Richard on 01454 800 120

Email: contact@fromevalleyvoice.co.uk

fromevalleyvoice

46

July, 2019

n SPORT WINTERBOURNE Cricket Club has taken a big leap forward with the opening of new nets.

An event was held at the end of June to open the practice nets at the club's home at the Recreation Ground in Park side Avenue.

Chairman Bob Vickery said: "We have seen many incredible developments and growth within the club over recent years; the completion and official opening of our new nets is something that will have a significant effect in the development of our existing players in all areas of our ‘one club’ -- juniors, seniors both male, female and of course future generations of Winterbourne cricketers.

"Developments such as these don’t just happen, this process started over 2 years ago when Paul Dagger and Liz Tracey started talking and pursuing the funding and support for the project."

The club has also thanked the England & Wales Cricket Board and Gloucestershire Cricket Board, which both backed the scheme, including a grant from the ECB, along with partners St Michael's C of E Primary School, landowners South Gloucestershire Council, contractors S&C Slater and Mark Cole of ETS electrical for the significant sponsorship he has contributed towards the project.

The club is holding a family day on August 25.

Nets are a big step forward for cricket in Winterbourne

Gloucestershire cricketers Chris Dent and James Bracey with Mark Cole and Bob Vickery and young cricketers Amy Lyne and Leah Vickery-Guest, Toby Rundle-Edwards, Ronnie Sullivan and Harrison Cole at the new nets.

LOCAL SERVICES AERIAL MAN

www.theaerialman.co.uk

• Digital Aerials • Fully Guaranteed • Repairs • Satellites • Free Quotes • OAP Discount • Additional TV Points • Humax Recorders Affordable Prices - Reliable Service

01454 660046

BATHROOM

BRISTOL WIGS

Wigs Bristol

LOCATED IN DOWNEND

We have been supplying all types of wigs and hairpieces for fashion and medical purposes for 45 years.

Wigs can be purchased off the peg or made to measure in hair or synthetic fibre.

We stock many styles and makes.

Please book an appointment on:

0117 956 6556 www.wigsbristol.com

To advertise, contact Richard on 01454 800 120

Bathroom & Kitchen Specialists All work carried out by us

One call is all you need Book now for your makeover

OSBORNE & SONS All work guaranteed.

Call Tony 0777 6188595 tony1osborne@yahoo.co.uk Find us on Facebook osborneandsons

Email: contact@fromevalleyvoice.co.uk

fromevalleyvoice

July, 2019

HOUSE CLEARANCE

CLEANING

47 PLUMBING

Garden, Clearance House, Garden, Office Clearance House,House, Garden, OfficeOffice Clearance

House, Garden, Office Clearance - all Plus all other Plus All Your Other Waste Removal Needs too!

House, House, Garden, Garden, Office Office Clearance Clearance -- Plus Plus all other other Plus Your Other Waste Removal Needs too!

Plus All All Your Other Waste Removal Needs too!

On-average Average cheaper than a skip.

On cheaper than aa skip.

OnAverage cheaper than skip. removal On average cheaper waste removal On cheaper than aa skip wastewaste removal -Average On average cheaper than than skipa skip

07592 003 Tel: 07592 506 003003 Tel: 07592 506 Tel:Tel: 07592 506506 003 1/4 Load 1/4 £89 1/4 Load Load £89 £89 Half Half £139 Half Load Load Load £139£139 3/4 Load 3/4 £179 3/4 Load Load £179£179 Full Load Full £199 Full Load Load £199£199

www.junkmonsters.co.uk www.junkmonsters.co.uk

PAINTING & DECORATING

Taps, Washers Toilets, Cisterns Leaks, Blockages Tanks, Overflows Lead Pipes, Stopcocks….etc…

OAP DISCOUNTS and NO VAT

0117

957 5092

PROPERTY MAINTENANCE

SJM DECORATING Professional Decorating Local Qualified tradesmen Internal & External Decorating Fast, reliable & friendly service Fully insured

Free Quotations

Call Scott 07515 523 623 0117 3824411

www.sjmdecorating.freeindex.co.uk

ELECTRICIANS

RUBBISH CLEARANCE

PLUMBING

JJ PLUMBING atom electrical BOILERS • BATHROOMS • KITCHENS specialist domestic installers

RUBBISH CLEARED

Registered upper tier waste carrier licence no CBDU225074

All types of domestic electrical work undertaken, from changing a light fitting to full rewires.

For an efficient, friendly, reliable, local electrical service...

call Oliver on 07747866436 or 01179602974

FREE Quotations

We load and clear rubbish/junk from houses Flats, Sheds, Attics, Gardens etc etc No job too small - we even clear single items Cheaper than a skip and we load no VAT

MOBILE: 07989 072976 TEL: 01454 859474 www.plumber-in-bristol.co.uk

www.atomelectrical.co.uk info@atomelectrical.co.uk

GARDENING SERVICES

GARDEN CARE

LAWNS CUT FROM £10.00 , HEDGE CUTTING, PRUNING, STRIMMING, PLANTING, POWER WASHING PATIOS RING MALCOLM ON

07958 673 882 FOR A FREE QUOTATION

Contact Stuart or Sue

Freephone 0800 0234 995 Mobile 07770944727 anytime inc. weekends

ADVERTISE HERE

WI-FI

LOCAL SERVICES ss

sine Advertise your bu here from just

.25 6 1 £

Give Richard a call 01454 800 120

Got News? Call Richard 0n 01454 800 120

Poor WiFi Signals Solved Fixed Price Solutions Full Home Coverage OAP Discounts

01454 660 046 www.thewifiman.co.uk

Email: contact@fromevalleyvoice.co.uk