Frome Valley Voice August 2023

fromevalleyvoice www.fromevalleyvoice.co.uk

August, 2023 Issue 118 FREE EVERY MONTH IN WINTERBOURNE, FRAMPTON COTTERELL, COALPIT HEATH, IRON ACTON & WINTERBOURNE DOWN

Make this a better place!

Tom's towering achievement A MOUNTAINEER from Frampton Cotterell has climbed the 120 highest peaks in the British Isles in a new record time.

PAGE 12

Bin crisis deepens Members of the 1st Frampton Cotterell Brownies laid out their ideas to improve their community after inviting some Winterbourne parish councillors to a meeting to find out how politicians can make a difference. Community news: Page 23

Bridge closure causes road rage ROADS around Frampton Cotterell and Coalpit Heath are beset by "speeding, road rage and huge queues" after the closure of the main road between Yate and Bristol.

National Highways closed the bridge that carried thousands of vehicles a day over the M4 after on Badminton Road after finding "structural failures" during a safety inspection.

The bridge, next to the Wick Wick roundabout

where the A432 meets the Avon Ring Road, was closed on July 12 month after engineers found "accelerated deterioration and cracking" in the reinforced concrete structure.

National Highways, which owns and maintains the bridge, says it will remain closed until December “at the earliest”, while further investigations are carried out.

Turn to page 3

RESIDENTS are starting to burn rubbish on bonfires as the union representing striking bin crews accuses employers of refusing to negotiate.

PAGE 4

Brewery shuts

THE micro-brewery and tap room at Winterbourne Medieval Barn has closed amid a row with its charity landlord.

PAGE 5

Musical triumph

A SINGER-songwriter from Winterbourne has overcome a hearing disorder to release her first EP of original music.

PAGE 9

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September deadline Our September deadline is August 23.

FromeValley Voice contacts Richard Drew

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

Local information

Anti social behaviour team asbreporting@southglos.gov.uk 01454 868582 Streetcare/litter/vandalism etc streetcare@southglos.gov.uk Environment/trading standards 01454 868001

n NEWS Police driver injured A POLICE driver was treated in hospital after colliding with another car on Badminton Road in Coalpit Heath.

The officer, who has not been named, was responding to an emergency call when the crash happened near the traffic lights at the junction of Beesmoor Road and Badminton Road on the evening of Sunday July 16.

Avon and Somerset police said: "The fire service was called to help extract the officer from the vehicle, who was taken to hospital by paramedics.

"His injuries were not considered to be life-changing or lifethreatening and he is continuing to recover at home. The driver of the other vehicle also went to hospital as a precaution.

"The officer was responding to an emergency call at the time of the incident."

An investigation into the circumstances of the collision is underway.

Lib Dems pick Claire again

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South Gloucestershire Council www.southglos.gov.uk 01454 868009 Safer Stronger team sscg@southglos.gov.uk 01454 868009

August, 2023

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.

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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

A member of the

FRAMPTON Cotterell councillor and South Gloucestershire Council leader Claire Young has been selected to fight the Thornbury & Yate constituency for the Liberal Democrats at the next general election.

Cllr Young, who stood for her party at the 2017 and 2019 elections won by Conservative Luke Hall, has been backed by her local party to fight for the seat a third time in an election widely expected to take place next year.

The seat is a top target for the party, which topped the poll in the constituency in May's council elections.

Claire said: “Living locally and running the Council I know just what is needed in the area - it’s time for an MP who speaks up and delivers.”

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August, 2023

3

n NEWS

'Speeding, road rage and huge queues' after bridge closes From page 1 The official diversion is via the B4465 Westerleigh Road to the A46 at Dodington, up to the Cross Hands at Old Sodbury and into Yate on the A432 from the east, adding an extra eight miles to the 4.6 mile journey between the Wick Wick roundabout and the centre of Yate.

But every day thousands of drivers are having to take diversions through Westerleigh to the east, and Winterbourne to the west.

The Y1 First bus service to Yate and Chipping Sodbury is diverting through Hambrook and Winterbourne.

First says passengers can expect delays – and other services in the area will be affected by increased traffic on minor roads.

Bus stops at Hambrook, Cuckoo Lane, Down Road, Park Lane, Station Road, St Saviours Church and Heathcote Drive are not being served. For buses heading towards Bristol, the Church Road bus stop on Badminton Road is also not being served.

South Gloucestershire Council says it is closely monitoring the impact of the closure, and may make changes to local traffic control, to ease the problems.

But it says it will not reopen the right turn at the Hambrook traffic lights on the A4174 to give drivers an alternative route.

Westerleigh Parish Council chair Rob McCullough said there are concerns about the impact on the local area.

He said: “Speeding, road rage and huge queues are seriously impacting the Kendleshire Quiet Lanes area daily.

“We are working to feed back to South Glos officers problems and suggestions, in particular the likes of vehicles still driving from Yate all the way up to the bridge closure before having to turn around and then find what inevitably seems to be the quickest sat nav diversion - via narrow country lanes.

“Hopefully some simple, common sense solutions are forthcoming - like reopening the right turn at the Hambrook Lights, tweaking the timings of the Beefeater roundabout traffic lights to let more vehicles through from Westerleigh Road, adding temporary lights to a couple of tricky junctions and temporarily closing the likes of Coalsack Lane.

"It is very clear that just letting the local road network just cope is not the way forward.”

A council spokesperson said the authority was “closely monitoring” traffic flows, adding: “We are also considering options around some of the network junctions that have seen increased usage to help relieve any congestion and encourage traffic to move more freely.”

But in a statement on its website the council said: "The

The bridge over the M4 was closed on July 12 right turn at Hambrook lights on the ring road will remain closed, as the arrangements in place are the most efficient way of moving traffic through the junction along the ring road."

The council advised residents to report areas affected by congestion by calling 01454 868000 or emailing A432bridgeclosure@southglos. gov.uk.

Frampton Cotterell ward councillor John Lean said: “Since the closure we have been contacted by many local people concerned about traffic congestion and safety on the rural roads around the bridge.

These roads are not suitable for HGVs. Neither are they suitable for the volume of traffic they are currently experiencing.

“Many of the concerns have been about the safety of turning onto Westerleigh Road from Henfield Road and there is a lot of local support for temporary traffic lights to be installed at that junction."

National Highways told the Voice that investigations

would take “some time” and “the earliest that a decision can be made regarding future restrictions is likely to be December 2023”.

A spokesperson said: “The structural investigations are detailed and specialist, and works are being undertaken by specialist contractors.

“The works involve identifying potential defects using digital scanning and then drilling into the structure to check the condition of the posttensioning system using a range of techniques.

“We are currently working on the underside of the structure at night under lane closures on the M4 and are looking to accelerate the topside works, before assessing the data and looking at all available options for the future of the structure.”

"The structure is safe and is not at risk of falling down - we have taken steps to limit traffic travelling on the bridge to avoid causing any further damage while we carry out complex, invasive investigations."

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August, 2023

n NEWS

Bin strike 'chaos will worsen', warns union THE union representing South Gloucestershire bin crews says that "chaos will worsen" after a court ruled that agency workers cannot be used to break its strike.

Unite was among a group of unions that challenged a government decision to allow companies to bring in agency staff during strikes, and won their case at the High Court.

It means that from August 10, council waste contractor Suez will not be able to hire substitutes to do the jobs of the 150 workers who have been on strike since the end of June.

The union has also rejected an increased pay offer of 9% from Suez - but says the contractor is "refusing to enter into renewed negotiations" before July 31.

Suez has declined to say how many agency workers it has hired during the strike, but confirmed it was reviewing their use.

Days before the ruling, council service director Mark King had told the cabinet Suez was "trying to get more agency staff in to support the service".

Recycling, food waste, green bin and bulky waste collections have been suspended since June 26.

Black bin rounds, Sort It centres and new 'deposit points' for food waste and recycling during are being prioritised.

The six 'deposit points', open between 8am and 2pm every weekday, include one at Yate Park and Ride, in Badminton Road.

The council's Sort It centre in Yate, along with those in Mangotsfield and Thornbury, have extra facilities to take more recycling and black bin waste, but long queues have been reported.

A council spokesperson said: "Fortnightly black bin collections continue to be prioritised to ensure the disposal of waste such as personal hygiene items, medical waste, nappy sacks and pet waste.

"Please put your black bin out on your normal scheduled collection day. Please do not put any other containers out."

Union members rejected an initial 8% per cent annual pay offer from Suez, calling it a

negotiations with the aim of coming to a positive solution."

She said that following the High Court ruling, “we’re reviewing our use of agency staff and we will work with the council to keep residents informed of any updates to the service”.

Fed-up residents start bonfires Council leader Claire Young and co-leader Ian Boulton at a deposit point. Picture: South Gloucestershire Council "significant real terms pay cut" because of inflation.

Suez believes its offer was "fair and competitive", and increased it to 9% during negotiations during the strike, but said on July 18 that Unite had rejected the new offer.

The contractor says the 15% Unite wants would mean an overall pay rise of 22% over two years.

Unite, which says the strike will last until September 3 if not resolved, says Suez made profits of £80.8 million in 2021.

The company’s South Gloucestershire bin loaders earn £11.53 per hour - equivalent to around £460 for a five-day week at eight hours per day, or just under £24,000 a year.

Unite general secretary Sharon Graham said: “Unite has told Suez and the council repeatedly that it stands ready to enter negotiations at any time to bring this dispute to an end. Suez, however, seems keen to prolong disruption to residents for as long as possible because its leadership want to look strong."

A Suez spokesperson said: "We are continuing discussions with the union over the coming weeks and hope to progress

SOME residents have started setting bonfires in their gardens to get rid of uncollected waste during the bin crews' strike, it has emerged.

Councillor Sanjay Shambhu (Con, Charlton & Cribbs) told a council meeting on July 19: “As a result of excess waste being created during the current Suez strikes, some residents have started incinerating waste at home and promoting it on social media as a suitable way of disposing of rubbish.

“We know some residents have taken to burning waste in their garden or other places during the strike period in order to dispose of the rubbish."

Unite union senior rep Jim Little told the same meeting bin workers had been having to use food banks before the strike, because their wages are so low.

He said workers were paid less than other colleagues in the South West as he made an impassioned plea to council leaders to help resolve the pay dispute.

Mr Little said: “That is treating us with utter contempt.

“We do a very hard job, we go out in all winds and weathers, we get abused, we get underpaid, we get undervalued."

Council leader Claire Young and co-leader Ian Boulton have written an open letter to Unite and Suez calling on them to "sit down to resolve their dispute now".

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August, 2023

5

n NEWS

Micro-brewery shuts in barn licence row A MICRO-brewery and tap room in Winterbourne has closed amid a row with its charity landlord.

The Three Engineers Brewery (3EB) was given three weeks’ notice that its lease at Winterbourne Medieval Barn was not being renewed at the end of June.

The barn's trustees say it is because the Three Engineers refused to agree to a lease agreement not to sell wine.

But 3EB co-owner James Shorney told the Voice he was shocked at the suddenness of the decision, and is now seeking legal advice.

The 3EB was started by three aerospace engineers and real ale enthusiasts in the village.

They rented space in the cow byres beside the barn for about five years, renewing after the barn and surrounding buildings completed its major renovation in 2020.

The part-time venture brewed and supplied beer to a handful of pubs and tap rooms, and opened two evenings a week to sell its own beers on site.

James told the Voice it had always been a labour of love, and he and his partner Felicity had worked countless hours without drawing any income, but with increasing popularity there were hopes it had the potential to support an income.

James said: “We have all worked for years for free to build the brewery up, so this has been a total blow. We are an asset to the barn, and have had tremendous feedback from our customers, who are as shocked as we are.”

He said they had paid the deposit for the new lease, and signed papers.

James Shorney with partner Felicity in the 3EB taproom

Three Engineers Brewery supporters at a fundraising event in Iron Acton James said the brewery had sold some wine as an additional offering to customers. They agreed to stop earlier this year – but asked the trustees to discuss this in the future.

He said the brewing equipment remained on site, but the cost of moving it and finding another location meant the Three Engineers' future was in doubt.

James said: “I can’t see any future if the trustees refuse to allow us to stay.”

He said he had asked for mediation but so far the trustees had declined to discuss the situation.

The local Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA) branch has organised fundraisers at The Lamb in Iron Acton and Drapers Arms in Horfield to help cover the cost of legal advice so far.

The group said: “This is a huge blow to the local community who had taken the taproom to its heart, and also to what was a thriving small local business.”

Winterbourne Medieval Barn Trust issued a statement calling the events “an unfortunate outcome”.

The trust said beer brewing and cider making was regarded as an “artisan” business, in line with its charitable aims, and the brewery was allowed to open a tap room, and sell its own products.

The trust said: “3EB then unilaterally added the retail sale of wine to their offer, breaching the conditions of their licence, and also without consulting WMBT as the premises alcohol licence holder.

“When this became apparent

Got News? Call Richard 0n 01454 800 120

to WMBT, 3EB were asked to remove this offer, and when the breach of the licence became persistent, a meeting was arranged...that re-stated the limitation of the licence agreement.”

The trust said that in June, 3EB returned the licence extension agreement with a

hand-written statement rejecting the wine restriction, so as no new agreement was reached, its lease had ceased on July 1.

The trust added: "WMBT has successfully operated other licence agreements and will continue to deliver the range of events that ensure the future preservation of the barn, follow the business plan agreed with South Gloucestershire Council and the National Lottery and provide a cultural asset to the local community.”

James says he had only written a note on the lease to ask for further talks about selling wine.

He has started an online petition asking South Gloucestershire Council, which owns the Barn, to intervene, but says he has been told by the council that it cannot do so.

The petition, which had 271 supporters as the Voice went to press, can be found at tinyurl. com/mvw5ky2p.

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fromevalleyvoice

August, 2023

n NEWS

Tour of Britain to restage cancelled leg TOP bike race the Tour of Britain will pass through South Gloucestershire - a year after being cancelled.

Stage seven of the race on September 9 will start in Tewkesbury and finish alongside Gloucester Docks.

The stage was originally due to be part of last year’s Tour of Britain, but was cancelled following the death of Queen Elizabeth II. Details of timings will be revealed closer to the time but the race route will pass through Horton, Chipping Sodbury, Yate and Iron Acton before heading north on the B4058 through Rangeworthy, Bagstone, Cromhall and Charfield, on their way to Wotton-under-Edge and the finishing line in Gloucester.

It will be the first full day of racing in the historic county of Gloucestershire in the race's history.

Organisers say it will be "an

undulating route to really test the riders on their penultimate day and will showcase the incredible scenery and landscape that Gloucestershire has to offer".

South Gloucestershire Council leader Claire Young said:“We are excited to welcome the Tour of Britain to South Gloucestershire this September.

"The event is a great way to bring communities together to spectate as the riders pass through our countryside, towns and villages and will also showcase our wonderful area to its global audience of millions.

"The excitement of the race has the potential to inspire more people to get out on their bikes in the local area and enjoy the benefits of cycling and travelling sustainably."

Race director Mick Bennett said: "We know how much people in Gloucestershire were looking forward to our planned stage in 2022, so, a little later

The route will pass through Rangeworthy, Cromhall and Charfield

than expected, we’re excited to be heading to this beautiful part of Britain!

"This stage is really going to give us an indication as to who will be crowned our 2023 champion, which further adds to the anticipation.

"Of course, none of this would be happening without the support from Gloucestershire County Council and South Gloucestershire Council, both of whom have shown an unwavering commitment to hosting the event, dating back nearly two years.”

Last year the route had been due to make up Stage Six of the annual elite race and had been due to visit the area on Friday September 9, with people had been encouraged to line the route.

However organisers issued a statement on the evening the news of the Queen's passing was announced, saying the stage would not take place during a national day of mourning.

While some sporting events restarted on the following weekend, the final two stages of the tour were also cancelled, after the police forces from around the country which had lent 30 specialist motorbike outriders and two command vehicles to the race to supervise road safety recalled them.

The Tour of Britain 2023 will begin in Greater Manchester on September 3 and finish in South Wales on September 10.

ITV4 will continue to broadcast live start-to-finish coverage of every stage, as well as a daily highlights show.

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August, 2023

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7

n NEWS

A map shows homes would be arranged. Picture: Pegasus

Homes plans on display RESIDENTS attended an open consultation on plans for 38 new homes on fields on the edge of Frampton Cotterell.

The developers have released a map and artist's impressions showing how the new buildings, which would be on land between Perrinpit Road and Bristol Road close to the traffic light junction, would An artist's impression of how the look if the project went ahead. development would look from the Local campaigners say they Bristol Road crossroads. Picture: Pegasus are opposed to the homes, as they say it could set a precedent for Green Belt development.

Chris Marsh from the developer’s agent Pegasus, who hosted the open meeting at the Brockeridge Centre, said more than 50 people attended during the day.

Pegasus has now published a map of the proposed development, showing a proposed new entrance onto Bristol Road, and pedestrian access close to the Perrinpit traffic lights.

He said: “Discussions ranged over a number of topics, including traffic and local infrastructure, ecology, design, affordable housing and sustainability, and these conversations will inform the proposals’ continued evolution to best reflect local priorities and aspirations for any development.

“The hosts also had the opportunity to explain that the proposals were at an early stage and were principally being promoted through the local plan, in response to concerns that an application was imminent or would set a precedent for the further release of other Green Belt sites of larger scale and not so well related to the village.

“Overall, the event provided a constructive platform for open exchanges of views and strong foundation for future local dialogue while the proposals continue to be worked up.”

Campaign group VALID was revived earlier this year to oppose “excessive development” in the village.

Chair Dave Hockey said the plan was on open farm fields in the Green Belt, so it was very different to smaller housing developments on brownfield sites along the Bristol Road.

He said: “The concern is that if this development goes ahead, it could set a precedent for further developments in the Frome Valley Green Belt.

“Wildlife needs time and space in order to flourish. Saving our Green Belt is crucial for maintaining these precious wildlife habitats and for the well-being of our local population.”

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LUKE HALL MP Working hard for South Gloucestershire Write to Luke at: Luke Hall MP, 26 High Street Chipping Sodbury BS37 6AH luke.hall.mp@parliament.uk lukehall.org.uk LukeHallThornburyandYate 01454 311267 Email: contact@fromevalleyvoice.co.uk

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8

August, 2023

n NEWS

Chief defends police response to travellers AVON & Somerset police's chief constable has defended the force’s response to unauthorised encampments following residents’ complaints that it is too slow.

During monthly questions from Mark Shelford, the area's police and crime commissioner (PCC), Sarah Crew said police powers – beefed up last year by a law that also created a new criminal offence – should not normally be the first option.

She said local authorities usually led a “multi-agency approach”, with support from the police, to sites occupied by travellers.

The chief constable said that while a nomadic lifestyle was lawful and Gypsy, Roma and Traveller communities were protected, there was a set of clear circumstances where the constabulary might become involved when trespassers occupied land without permission - but that it was not always understood by the public.

Mr Shelford said: “One of the frustrations that people who get in contact with me say is that the police and the council are very slow to act, particularly when there has been proven criminality around these sites.

“Why is it so slow, why does it take so long?”

Ms Crew said the recent Police, Crime, Sentencing and Courts Act added to existing legislation on police powers over encampments but that this required there to be “significant damage, disruption or distress” before action could be taken.

She told the performance & accountability board meeting on July 11: “The first thing I would want to do is acknowledge the challenges that are brought about by unauthorised encampments and that’s clearly why people are writing to you.

“At the same time, moving people on to another area isn’t the solution to a problem – everyone has a right to live somewhere and there is a shortage across the country, as well in our area, of appropriate alternative accommodation."

Ms Crew said officers "give equal balance to listening to the community and engaging with them to understand what the impact this encampment is having" but said "the first response should not necessarily be, or normally even be, the use of police powers.”

She said the force could become involved in an eviction where an encampment

Sarah Crew at the meeting deprived a community of local services, if there was a significant impact on the environment or disruption to the local economy.

The chief constable said police could also move on groups who "have persistently displayed antisocial behaviour at previous sites and we’ve got a reasonable belief, which is stronger than a suspicion, that behaviour is going to be replicated at a new site".

But she added: “The legislation is clear, the government guidance is clear – the mere presence of an encampment without any aggravating factors should not normally create an expectation that the police will use eviction powers."

By Adam Postans, Local Democracy Reporting Service

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August, 2023

n NEWS

fromevalleyvoice

9

Rhiannon Paige performing at her EP launch party

Rhiannon beats hearing loss to release debut EP A SINGER-songwriter from Winterbourne who was born with a hearing disorder has released the first EP of her own music.

Rhiannon Paige was born with a condition called otitis media with effusion (OME), or glue ear, which meant she had 70% hearing loss for the first eight years of her life.

She was determined to sing, and after having surgery which opened up her ear drums, she regained full hearing.

When she was 12 she picked up a guitar for the first time and taught herself how to play by watching YouTube videos.

Since leaving university last year she has been playing live concerts in and around Bristol and performs as a full-time professional at gigs, private events and music festivals.

Now she’s boosting her professional career as a country/pop performer with a collection of four of her own songs.

Rhiannon said: “Releasing my debut EP has by far been one of the most rewarding experiences I’ve ever had, especially having a physical copy of my EP to hold.

“Nothing compares to the feeling of knowing all your hard work and determination is within each and every copy.”

Rhiannon says her love of music started when she was a child.

After leaving Winterbourne Academy, she went on to study music at DBS in Bristol, then the Brighton Academy.

The debut EP, Playing Games, was released at a sell-out launch party at Zedd Alley music venue in Bristol in July.

Rhiannon said: "The love and support I have received from my EP has been phenomenal.

"I feel super lucky to have such an amazing group of people following me on this journey. Hearing people sing your songs back is a next to none kind of feeling.

“I like to make my music relatable, with most of my songs being based on my own experiences.

“I tend to get my inspiration randomly, sometimes a line for a lyric will just pop into my head, I will record a tune and the lyric on my voice notes; and then I will then build on that idea with my guitar and pen. When it comes to recording in the studio, I will work together with the production team to put all the pieces together.”

Rhiannon plans to get back in the studio soon and record more original music.

For more information visit Rhiannon's Facebook page facebook. com/rhiannon163.

Got News? Call Richard 0n 01454 800 120

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fromevalleyvoice

10

n NEWS

August, 2023

New calls for change on the buses A WINTERBOURNE commuter has spoken out on how the village has taken the brunt of bus cuts, at a protest called to demand change.

Duncan Porter was among campaigners who went to College Green in Bristol city centre in July to launch a new petition calling for buses in the region to be brought back under public control.

To prove his point, he said he had to drive to the protest because he couldn't rely on the bus to get him there.

Reclaim Our Buses is urging Dan Norris, the West of England Metro Mayor, to formally begin a legal process exploring how franchising could work in Bristol, South Gloucestershire and Bath & North East Somerset.

Its petition had been signed by almost 2,000 people in its first two weeks, and organisers hope it will provide evidence of the “huge public support” for bus franchising, where the West of England Combined Authority

Protesters on College Green call for public control of bus services would control timetables and issue contracts to run all services.

Duncan said he recently quit his job as a software developer in Bristol, largely due to how difficult it was to commute to work on the bus.

He said the increasing amount of traffic going through the village is now “getting to breaking point”.

Mr Porter said: “I drove in

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Volunteers provide vital maths and English support to pupils from lowincome families

today purely because I couldn’t rely on the buses.

"On Wednesday I was trying to get to work for a meeting, two buses didn’t turn up and I had to get an Uber, which cost about £23.

“From Winterbourne’s perspective, we’ve taken the brunt of it. We need to see a properly run bus service, not just one where the private companies are able to hold the councils to ransom.

"There’s no competition, and running this as a private enterprise just does not work if it’s not properly regulated.

“I actually quit my job this week, partially but quite a lot because being able to get into Bristol from Winterbourne is problematic for me.

"I ran a software developer department for a travel company.

This company in Bristol has now lost an employee because of the inability of councils to run proper infrastructure, which is insane.

“People are angry because they’re just chopping services based on what’s most profitable for them, and not what the

community needs.

"People are frustrated, people are angry. It’s not just losing their services, but the increase in traffic going through the village is getting to breaking point. There’s a huge swell of frustration and anger in Winterbourne.”

Mr Norris said: “I’ve always said franchising is on the table.

But it’s not a magic bullet. The biggest issue we and other regions have been facing on the buses is the severe bus driver shortage — that includes Greater Manchester, which has franchising.

“We are gripping this — training dozens of drivers this year alone.

"And I’m proud to have introduced new and innovative solutions to our bus challenges like my Birthday Bus scheme to get more people using public transport, which will mean more money to make further improvements to the bus network.”

Maria Carvalho, from Reclaim Our Buses, said franchising would help solve the shortage of drivers, as contracts set down

by WECA could include working conditions and standards for drivers.

Ms Carvalho said: "That’s a key difference with the system that we have now and the franchising system, in a way that would benefit bus drivers.

"Unite, which represents bus drivers, has backed this petition because they can see that this is a long term solution to the current crisis in bus services."

The petition can be found on the Megaphone website at tinyurl.com/3bpanw75.

By Alex Seabrook, Local Democracy Reporting Service

No experience necessary Apply: actiontutoring.org.uk To advertise, contact Richard on 01454 800 120

Email: contact@fromevalleyvoice.co.uk

August, 2023

fromevalleyvoice

11

n NEWS

School bus routes saved BUSES on three routes used by children attending Winterbourne Academy have been saved after South Gloucestershire Council struck a deal with operator Stagecoach.

Families living in Coalpit Heath, Frampton Cotterell and Hambrook were among those sent letters in June by head teacher Jenny Cartwright, warning that the future of services was in doubt from September because of funding issues.

The affected services were the 460 from Coalpit Heath and Frampton, the 427 from Frenchay via Hambrook, the 458 from Fishponds via Downend, the 459 from Emersons Green and Lyde Green via Blackhorse and Bromley Heath, and the 936 from Patchway, Bradley Stoke and Little Stoke.

Four of the services are run by Stagecoach, with the other run by Transpora.

Now the council has said the 427, 459 and 460 will run for another year after it "stepped-in and found a solution to keep them running", using funds paid by developers as part of planning deals.

The authority said it would "will work with partners to look at options" for the 458 and 936.

Council cabinet member for infrastructure Chris Willmore said: “The scrapping of these services would have resulted in significant disruption for the many children who use them to get to school safely throughout the year.

"I am pleased that we were able to find a solution to fund them, as it is vitally important that that children can continue to get to school.

“We are also looking at solutions with other services under pressure, so it is important that we work together to try and keep the wheels turning on bus routes that provide a transport lifeline in our communities.

"Buses reduce car journeys at busy periods and help to reduce our overall carbon footprint.”

Asked about the future of the other two services, a council spokesperson said: "We don’t have a timeline present, but we are liaising with the school to explore options."

Ticket office closure condemned SOUTH Gloucestershire Council has voted unanimously to oppose the proposed mass closure of railway station ticket offices.

An emergency motion tabled by the Liberal Democrats on July 19 received full cross-party support. Opposition Conservatives said it was “misleading” and an “obvious attempt to bash the Government” but backed it nonetheless.

The proposal instructs the authority’s co-leaders Claire Young and Ian Boulton to write to the Transport Secretary and the Railways Minister “expressing the council’s opposition” to the planned closures, which would leave the Bristol region with no ticket offices, even at Temple Meads and Parkway.

They will also write to Great Western Railway (GWR) opposing “any plans to leave South Gloucestershire residents without access to the full set of services provided by staffed ticket offices” and calling on the operator to publish the equalities impact assessment amid warnings the move will leave disabled and elderly passengers stranded.

Yate's ticket office is currently staffed from 7-11am, and the Lib Dems say the proposed changes will take away the ticket office and position a member of staff, who won't be able to sell tickets, on the platform for the same period of time.

Metro Mayor Dan Norris has met Rail Minister Huw Merriman to raise his concerns.

By Adam Postans, Local Democracy Reporting Service

Got News? Call Richard 0n 01454 800 120

Email: contact@fromevalleyvoice.co.uk

fromevalleyvoice

12

n NEWS

August, 2023

Tom climbs every mountain - over 600m high

Tom Cormack on top of a peak. All pictures: Tom Cormack/Instagram @cormacktom.

A MOUNTAINEER from Frampton Cotterell has broken a record for climbing all 120 of the British Isles' major peaks - in less than three months.

Tom Cormack has climbed more than ten times the height of Mount Everest in total.

In the process the 23-year-old climber has raised nearly £1,400 for the Grand Appeal at Bristol Children’s Hospital.

Tom set out to break the previous record for climbing all the P600 “major mountains” with peaks over 600m (1,969ft) high - in every nation of the British Isles, which stood at 11 months.

He said: “Only seven people have climbed every major - I just became the eighth!

“My aim was to be the first person in history to climb them all continuously and smash that record. I managed to complete it

solo in under 11 weeks.

“I am a one-man team, with just a little gas stove and a bed in my van.

"I have driven and sailed thousands of miles."

Tom says most of the peaks are accessible to fit hill walkers, but some involve a long walk to reach them.

He said: "Weather changes very quickly, and I was sometimes walking for hours with very poor visibility, making navigation challenging.

“I hope the constant but hilarious suffering I put myself through encourages people to help me fundraise for such a noble cause!”

Tom started mountain climbing at 16 by ascending Ben Nevis, and says he has been keen to do more ever since.

In the build-up to the climb, he worked part time on a farm,

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Tom enjoyed many spectacular views during his challenge

A snowfield on Ben Macdui in the Cairngorms and for a landscaping company, and then worked part time as a postman, to get in extra walking.

He said: “What inspired me to do this challenge was the fact that no-one had done it.

"I love adventure, and nothing to me is more adventurous than those that do something no one else has done before."

Tom's total time was 75 days, five hours and 34 minutes.

He believes he is the first to complete the "very challenging" list of mountains in one go, running up at least one every day and sometimes scaling three in a single day.

In total he climbed more than 109,700m (360,000ft) - Everest is 8,850m (29,035ft), drove more than 6,000 miles and made 19 Ferry Crossings.

After returning to Frampton,

Tom said: “As I sit here now in the comforts of civilization, it is very surreal to think that at some point in the past few weeks I was on top of every single one of those mountains.

“It is a great way to put everything into perspective.

"I love the prolonged period of suffering, facing adversity, many hours of walking in silence through dense fog, wilderness all to myself.

"When it ends you feel more motivated than ever - it's a vicious cycle, but what a great cycle to be in!”

Tom's fundraising page for the Grand Appeal can be found at www.justgiving.com/page/ tom-cormack-1682368426744.

You can find more pictures from Tom's challenge at www.instagram.com/ cormacktom.

Email: contact@fromevalleyvoice.co.uk

fromevalleyvoice

August, 2023

13

n NEWS

The children and staff of Iron Acton Primary School gathered together for a celebration picture.

'Harmonious' village school wins praise A VILLAGE school with fewer than 100 pupils has been praised for its "harmonious" playtimes, ambitious curriculum and caring ethos.

Education watchdog Ofsted inspected Iron Acton Church of England Primary School in May - its first visit for five years.

The inspectors said the school, which has 98 children aged four to 11 on its roll, has retained the 'good' rating it has had since 2009.

Their report said pupils are "happy to attend" the school and "enjoy their learning", adding: "Playtimes are harmonious. All year groups play together well and pupils are considerate of one another.

"A culture in which there are ‘no outsiders’ means this is a highly inclusive environment, in which pupils thrive."

The inspectors said children behaved well and appreciated the frequent praise staff gave them for good behaviour, meaning that "most strive to meet the high expectations that staff have of them".

They said parents and pupils are "very positive" about the school, which they found "welcoming", with very approachable staff.

The inspectors said: "The ethos of the school is about having ‘the courage to care’.

"Leaders enable pupils to live this ethos out. For example, Year 6 pupils act as ‘buddies’ to children starting in Reception Year and pupils sing at a local dementia café."

The report highlighted the school's "broad, ambitious curriculum", saying: "Learning is logically sequenced so that pupils can build on what they already know.

Leaders are knowledgeable and passionate about the subjects that they lead."

The inspectors highlighted work teaching younger children to read and communicate, and support for pupils with special educational needs or disabilities.

They also praised the variety of clubs, events, trips and leadership roles pupils are given.

The inspectors said: "They relish opportunities to be involved in the wider community. For example, most pupils enjoy taking part in the village’s annual May Day celebration."

To improve further the inspectors recommended that the school make sure

that work set and activities chosen always precisely match the aims of the curriculum.

Executive head teacher Mike Riches said: "We were delighted to have received such a positive and well-deserved result from our inspection.

"The staff came together as an incredibly strong team to showcase all the positive aspects of our wonderful school and the children were able to articulate their learning exceptionally well.

"We were particularly pleased that the inspectors recognised the highly inclusive nature of our school, which is represented through our motto ‘courage to care’; we are very proud of our No Outsiders project which celebrates the fact that everyone is different and unique.

"The team has worked hard to embed this into our culture and it has really paid off as the children thrive from this approach."

The school is currently looking for a clerk for its governors - email enquiries@ ironactonprimaryschool.co.uk for more details.

When you mention The Voice

Got News? Call Richard 0n 01454 800 120

Email: contact@fromevalleyvoice.co.uk

14

n NEWS

fromevalleyvoice

Hot tub death was an unpredictable accident THE death of a crane company boss who was crushed by a falling hot tub while working, was an accident which could not have been predicted, a coroner has ruled.

Michael Burcombe, who was 73 and from Coalpit Heath, was hit when a crane lifting the tub from the front to the back garden of a house in Mangotsfield tipped as the concrete drive it was parked on collapsed.

An air ambulance landed at nearby Barley Close Primary School and several other ambulance crews were sent to help after the incident on September 13, 2021.

However Mr Burcombe died of his injuries at the scene.

Mr Burcombe was a director

The crane after the accident which caused Michael Burcombe's death. of Burcombe Crane Hire Ltd, a family-run company which operated from Coalpit Heath.

An inquest at Avon Coroner's Court in July heard that his son Ashley was driving the crane and his grandson Ty Nethercott was signalling as Mr Burcombe guided the load into the back

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garden.

Suddenly part of the concrete driveway the crane was sitting on gave way and the tub swung forward further than expected, trapping him, and while his son and grandson prised it off him, he had suffered multiple fatal injuries.

August, 2023 The BBC reported that his son told the inquest the business was now being wound up, and he would never drive a crane again.

Mr Burcombe had carried out a risk assessment which found that the crane could safely lift the tub, although its stabilising outriggers could not all be extended in the confined space available.

Ruling that Mr Burcombe's death was accidental, coroner Dr Peter Harrowing said: "He could not, and neither could Ashley, have predicted that the concrete would fracture and give way when it did."

The Health and Safety Executive launched an investigation after the incident but has delayed its conclusion to wait for the inquest to be completed.

An HSE spokesperson said: “We took immediate enforcement action at the time of the incident to ensure the company had procedures in place to ensure future lifts were planned safely.

"We will review the matters raised at inquest before concluding our investigation.”

Email: contact@fromevalleyvoice.co.uk

fromevalleyvoice

August, 2023

15

n NEWS

Mash raises cash for good causes THREE thousand music lovers attended the tenth annual Acton Aid charity music concerts in Iron Acton.

Ticket sales raised thousands of pounds for local good causes – and another £4,350 was raised in a bucket collection for charity St Peter's Hospice.

The two-night event has become Acton Aid’s main fund raiser, with a pop music concert on the Friday and classical music on the Saturday.

Organisers said the Mash in the Meadow event on June 30 was sold out more than a week in advance.

It featured a 10-piece covers band Joey and the Lips, who entertained the crowd for 90 minutes with their versions of well-known hits spanning four decades, with hundreds of people ignoring rain showers to dance on front of the stage.

The headline act was Flash, the UK’s best known Queen tribute band, who had performed at the Mash before.

Mash spokesman Richard Hunter said: “This was the tenth Mash we have held, and it was probably the best in terms of quality of music, audience participation and general atmosphere.

“We are already planning the next Mash, which will be held on the first weekend of July next year and by popular demand, Joey and the Lips will be returning to support an internationally-known tribute show."

Saturday's Music in the Meadows classical show was opened by the Bristol Pipe and Drums band, before Britain's best-selling classical singer Russell Watson took to the stage.

The star treated the audience to a variety of classical songs and also included some Elvis

The crowd at the Russell Watson concert numbers, demonstrating his versatility.

The Iron Acton Community Choir and the Bristol Millennium Orchestra accompanied Russell during the show, which finished with a firework display.

Acton Aid spokesman Rob Taylor said: “Securing the services of a huge internationally-known star such as Russell Watson was a real coupe for Iron Acton.

“The challenge of making sure that our 3,000 visitors safely enjoyed the performances on each night was well met by the volunteers of Acton Aid and partners.

“We created a mini food village, serving a variety of quality foods, and most importantly had a well-stocked bar!

"As well as raising thousands of pounds for us to spend on local good causes, the charity bucket collection in aid of St Peter's Hospice raised well over £4,000, reflecting the generosity

Jo Wood of Organic Blooms in Iron Acton presents Russell Watson with a bouquet after his performance

Got News? Call Richard 0n 01454 800 120

Queen tribute band Flash at Mash in the Meadows and goodwill of our audiences.

"We're told that this represents the two most successful single-day (let alone 30-minute) collections in the charity's history!"

In the audience at the

weekend were the winners of three pairs of tickets donated by the organisers in a competition in June's Voice, with two winners choosing the Mash and the third choosing Russell Watson's concert.

Email: contact@fromevalleyvoice.co.uk

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fromevalleyvoice

18

August, 2023

n NEWS FROM THE METRO MAYOR

Free bus travel offer is up and running HAVE you applied for your free month of birthday travel?

If yes - fantastic - and thank you! If not please head to www.birthdaybus.co.uk.

There’s nothing to lose and lots to gain.

So, what is Birthday Buses? In simple terms, I’m proud to offer all West of England residents the chance to ride the buses of our region for free throughout the whole of their birthday month. There’s no limit on the number of journeys you can make, or the time of day. So, what are you waiting for?

Importantly, Birthday Buses helps your pocket during this frightening cost-of-living crisis.

But it is also a serious plan to get our region moving and tackle the climate emergency.

I’m very keen to see new people become bus passengers.

The latest figures show that the vast majority of people who used to travel on buses before Covid are doing so again.

But - and here’s the catch - they are making fewer journeys.

If you think about it, it makes sense. People are working from home more; doing more online shopping and there are more virtual appointments for things like speaking to a GP.

So, passenger journey numbers are down and that means less fare income coming in.

That’s not sustainable.

Birthday Buses is designed to encourage new people to hop on the bus and try it out - for a regular commute, to go to the shops, or to spend their weekends enjoying the amazing attractions of our region. Because I think if you try buses, you might like them.

Other places in the UK have tried free bus travel for a day, or a weekend, but this is different. A day isn’t enough to make or break a habit.

But a month? Hopefully.

We have thought about this carefully. The month of your birthday seemed a great time to give you a free travel gift, but I’ve also worked closely with bus companies.

The phased nature of Birthday Buses means you won’t face overcrowded buses. We also need to make sure it’s definitely you applying, so please have a passport-style digital photo ready to apply at www.birthdaybus.co.uk.

A staggering 44% of our carbon emissions come from transport, and fewer than one in ten regional commutes are made on public transport.

Worse, there are a shocking 300 preventable

Metro Mayor Dan Norris writes for the Voice premature deaths due to air pollution annually.

Getting people to use the car less and use the bus more is key to reaching our ambitious 2030 net-zero target here in the West, and it will reduce traffic and delays that cost our local economy £300 million a year.

Finally, I want to put our region on the map.

Birthday Buses is doing just that.

We’re the envy of England, with Bus Users UK calling it “brilliant”.

So please sign up now at www.birthdaybus. co.uk and tell your friends, family and workmates.

And may I wish everyone many happy returns - and singles!

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Email: contact@fromevalleyvoice.co.uk

fromevalleyvoice

August, 2023

19

n NEWS

Children write poems for author CHILDREN from Hambrook Primary School were inspired to write poems by a visit from an author.

Michael ‘Mac’ Mackriell, who lives in Stapleton, visited the school in July to read some of his own poems to the Year 3 class.

Year 3 teaching assistant Callie Evans said: "The children in return wrote poems for Mac to listen to and they asked him questions about being a writer.

"A signed copy of his book was given to each child in Year 3, which was kindly purchased by the Lodge of Harmony and Concord Freemasons in Stapleton, as part of their support for the school and the local community."

Michael originally started writing stories as birthday or Christmas presents for his grandchildren but has now collected them in a book, called Eleven Quirky Bedtime Stories, the proceeds of which go to disability charity Mencap.

He said: "Having been totally bored by the

Year 3 children from Hambrook Primary school with author Michael Mackriell. stories my grandchildren brought home from school, I decided to do better, writing stories that encompassed the wonderful world of children’s imagination, where anything is possible."

Michael decided to give all of his royalties to Mencap, which provides support and advice and campaigns on behalf of people

with learning disabilities, because his late wife worked for many years with disabled children.

The book, which is aimed at three to 11-year-old children, is published by the Choir Press and is available from bigger shops and online sellers, including Amazon, the Book Depository and Barnes & Noble.

We are Collegiate DISCOVER MORE AT OUR AUTUMN OPEN EVENTS: WHOLE SCHOOL OPEN MORNING - SATURDAY 23rd SEPTEMBER SIXTH FORM OPEN EVENING - THURSDAY 5th OCTOBER

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Email: contact@fromevalleyvoice.co.uk

ES C A SP ABLE IL A V A

Are you looking for a school for September 2024?

We are hosting open events for you and your children.

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Call the office to book 01454 867105 Open Morning Weds 27th Sept 2023 9:15am - 10:15am Open Evening Weds 4th Oct 2023 5pm - 6pm

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fromevalleyvoice

August, 2023

21

n NEWS

Free June from the wheelbarrow run!

VILLAGERS in Westerleigh are being urged to help free their 80-year-old church warden from a weekly wheelbarrow dash.

June Powell uses her pink wheelbarrow to take a heap of dirty cups from St James’s regular coffee mornings back home, because the 13th century church has nowhere to wash them up.

Fellow parishioners launched a tongue-in-cheek appeal, saying: “Weʼre raising £500 to Free the Westerleigh One from the dreaded Pink Wheelbarrow!”

They wanted to highlight their campaign to raise £200,000 for new facilities to update the church for community use.

June says the Wednesday morning journey along the village streets turns a few heads.

June Powell with another barrow-load of washing up.

She said: "People driving past certainly look. I don’t have any trouble to get the car out. I live money, so we could do with some trouble crossing the road – they just up the road, and take the help." see my pink wheelbarrow and let washing up home each time to Parishioner Carol Goddard me go. put it in my dishwasher. put June’s photo on the online "I do it by wheelbarrow need to raise a lotPage of 7 fundraiser, to highlight the because it would be tooAW.qxp_Layout much WB Generic ads 2023 1"We 14/04/2023 11:41

appeal.

She told the Voice: “St James’ is a 13th century church without all the mod cons - no toilet or kitchen - and this is what we are fundraising for.

“What we want is to make the church more of a community hub.

“We run a Wednesday coffee morning and 30-40 people come along.

"We get a good mix of young, old people with dogs, and we are sure there’s a need for more – we’d like to open up the space for a crèche, classes and a baby and toddler group.

“We have concerts, but people have to go to the pub to use the loo!”

Carol said once the new kitchen is built, one of the first things they will install is a new dishwasher.

You can help free June from wheelbarrow duty by donating to the fund at www.justgiving. com/crowdfunding/carolgoddard.

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Email: contact@fromevalleyvoice.co.uk

fromevalleyvoice

22

August, 2023

n RECIPE OF THE MONTH

Sweet and sharp summer delight THIS summer has been amazing with all its variations in weather, from incredibly hot to chilly, with lashings of rain.

There is a bank holiday to contend with, when traditionally family and friends meet for jollifications.

I’m particularly keeping my fingers crossed for good weather, as I’m having a big family party to celebrate the return of my youngest son and family from China.

We haven’t been able to do this for three years, so it’s a real joy.

This month’s recipe is a real treat - and a little different.

Blondies are made with white chocolate, as the name implies, but don’t worry if you’re not a fan of white chocolate, because the addition of slightly sharp raspberries cuts down the sweetness of the chocolate.

Give it a try - you won’t be disappointed!

Raspberry blondies You can make these delicious treats all year round with frozen raspberries, but I think they taste best with fresh, seasonal raspberries.

Unicorn visits park AN attraction near Winterbourne has welcomed a magical visitor for the summer.

Unicorn Ukuphilisa Amanzi at the West Country Water Park in Trench Lane is part of Unicornfest, a trail raising awareness and money for charity Leukaemia Care.

Over the summer holidays families are being encouraged to visit unicorns across Bristol and the surrounding area, finding them via maps which are being sold at shops, cafes, pubs and

Ann Murray founded 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.

the end Preheat the oven to 180C, 350F, Gas Mark 4

Here’s what you do:

Ingredients: Butter, chopped into small pieces – 125g (4 ½oz) White chocolate – 200g (8oz) chopped into small, equal pieces Caster sugar - 150g (5oz) Eggs - 2, preferably, free range, lightly beaten Plain flour – 110g (4oz) Self-raising flour – 75g (3oz) White chocolate – extra 75g (3oz) chopped coarsely (optional) Fresh or frozen raspberries* – 150g (5oz) * If using frozen raspberries, do not defrost them before using A little icing sugar for dusting at

Grease an oblong 12 x 8in tin, line the base and two opposite sides with non-stick paper. Bring the paper a good 2in above the rim of the tin. This helps you to lift the blondies out more easily.

Melt the butter and 200g of the white chocolate in a microwaveable bowl, on medium for 1 minute. Stir. Do bursts of 20 seconds until the chocolate has just become smooth. Stir until there are no lumpy bits of chocolate left.

Cool until just slightly warm.

Stir in the sugar, eggs, flour and extra chocolate, if using.

Stir in the raspberries so that they are evenly distributed.

Spread the mixture into the prepared pan.

Bake for 30-40 mins or until just firm to the touch. The edges should

Unicorn Ukuphilisa Amanzi

other businesses.

Ukuphilisa Amanzi has been decorated by Bristol artist Susannah Peacock, who specialises in mythical beasts, to

To advertise, contact Richard on 01454 800 120

celebrate Bristol's nautical past.

The organisers said: "Many different peoples have settled here from across the sea bringing their traditions and culture.

be pulling away from the tin, and dark golden brown. A cocktail stick inserted into the middle should come out with only a little bit of stickiness to it. Remember, it will firm up as it cools.

Cool in the tin for 10 mins.

Lift the blondies out of the tin onto a board, using the paper to help you.

Divide into squares. I like to do small bites: you can get as many as 30 from this size of tin (6x5).

Transfer them to a wire cooling rack to finish cooling.

Serve, dusted with a little icing sugar.

Cook’s tip: These will keep in an airtight tin for up to a week, or you can freeze them for up to a month, but I think they are best eaten when still warm.

If you have kept them, you can just warm them for 30 seconds on medium in your microwave.

"Our mermaid has come from afar to be part of our wonderful city. Have you looked on the other side? There really are seahorse unicorns!"

West Country Water Park, which is sponsoring the unicorn, has also donated a small unicorn 'foal' to Backwell Junior School in North Somerset to enable them to be involved with the Unicornfest.

The waterside attraction provides activities including an aqua park, swimming, paddle-boarding and a lakeside restaurant, and is run on solar power.

The unicorn is in its car park, so can be visited outside of opening hours.

Unicornfest runs until September 3.

For more information visit the website theunicornfest.co.uk.

Email: contact@fromevalleyvoice.co.uk

fromevalleyvoice

August, 2023

n COMMUNITY NEWS Winterbourne and Frome Valley Environmental Group MAKE our community a better place! That was the clear message sent to Winterbourne councillors after they were invited to attend one of 1st Frampton Cotterell Brownies' meetings in June.

The group of seven to ten-year-old girls were learning about how to make change happen and how to improve their local area.

They were keen to understand how local elected councillors can make a difference.

Councillors Sharon Hancock and Laura FoggRogers viewed posters about improving their area, made by the children, who all attend Elm Park School in Winterbourne, and gave feedback on the next steps for their ideas.

Saving nature such as bees, hedgehogs, and wildflowers were all high on their priority list, and the children were keen to make a difference locally, with tree planting schemes.

Polluting traffic got the thumbs down, along with potholes, pavement parking and idling cars in car parks.

The girls also wanted to see more cycle paths, so they could get about safely, and more

23 select a local group. 1st Frampton Cotterell Brownies currently has spaces available from September.

Community conversations One of the posters made by the brownies local facilities, such as parks with swings.

Sharon Hancock, who is also the co-chair of Winterbourne and Frome Valley Environmental Group, reported on their ideas to the Parish Council in July.

She said: "We were so impressed with the children’s ideas and their knowledge about actions we can all take to make the environment a better place.

"Their solutions are so important for our community now, as well as their future, so we will work on making them happen locally.”

For more information on Girlguiding and how to find a place visit girlguiding.org.uk and

n COMMUNITY NEWS St Peter's Church ST PETER'S Church in Frampton Cotterell has participated in Churches Count on Nature, an annual scheme where people record the plant and animal species they find in churchyards and grounds.

Within two hours in June we recorded 46 wildflower species, 25 minibeast species and our three square plots of meadow had at least 14 plant species in each of them.

This brings our total count so far to 250 species, including 13 types of tree, 21 birds and at least 5 species of bat. The species total increases each month.

The churchyard has a history dating back to Saxon times and over the centuries the grassland will have been relatively undisturbed.

It therefore contains a seed bank of many wild plants and this unimproved grassland is now rare in the United kingdom.

The number of trees on our site contributes to the diversity of fungi and birds. This means that the churchyard has an important part to play in the reversal of the nature and climate crisis.

It also provides an accessible place to enjoy nature for those who are unable to access the countryside.

The grave maintenance is the responsibility of families, but general maintenance is done by a very small group of volunteers from the church and community.

We are currently looking at how to manage the grassland to make the most of the biodiversity, whilst enabling access to and respecting the graves.

This year the weather and problems with bee swarms has meant that there was more long grass on untended graves and on the north side of the site than we expected.

If you would like to find out more about this wonderful churchyard or can help in any way, join us on the second Saturday of the month between 9.30am and 10.30am for whatever time you can spare.

Ruth Cowell, churchyard volunteer

Got News? Call Richard 0n 01454 800 120

WINTERBOURNE parish councillors are keen to listen to other groups in the community, to hear about ideas to make the area better for everyone.

There will be monthly listening sessions starting at Winterbourne Library, taking place on the second Monday of each month from August 14, from 5.30-7.30pm.

These meetings are an opportunity for more open conversation between residents and councillors to understand problems, needs and ideas that could enhance our lives in the area your visions for a better Winterbourne.

You can also invite councillors to attend your groups or activities - from young to old, from sports to social groups and pastimes to well-being then do get in touch if you would like to take this up. You can email the parish clerk or peter.a.bruce@gmail.com.

Open Invitation to residents starting August 14th at Winterbourne Library from 5:30 to 7:30pm.

Laura Fogg-Rogers

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24

fromevalleyvoice

August, 2023

n WHAT'S ON Until September 3 n KIDS GO FREE THIS SUMMER Brunel’s SS Great Britain welcomes children 16 years and under for free when you book tickets online.

Highlights this summer include a brand new family food trail, AR binoculars and a cricket display. ssgreatbritain.org/summer August 3 n TEA AND TOUR at Winterbourne Medieval Barn - find out how the Barn was built, why it is so important and more about Thomas de Bradeston, followed by tea, coffee and biscuits, with plenty of time to explore and ask further questions. More details at www. winterbournebarn.org.uk.

August 4 and 18 n SUMMER INFLATABLE DAY, Emersons Green Village Hall.

Bookable hour-long slots between 9.30am and 2pm. Adult £1, 1-3 years old £4, 4-12 years old £6, under 1 free. Refreshments available. Book via www.egvh.org. uk/tickets to guarantee a spacetickets may be available on the door if there are spaces left.

August 8 n FAMILY CRAFT SESSIONS, Winterbourne Medieval Barn,

10am or 1pm. Aimed at families with children aged 5-11, making fridge magnets, fans, wreaths and bunting. Pre-booking is essential, at www.winterbournebarn.org.uk.

August 10 n TALK ON JOAN OF ARC with Prof Ronald Hutton, Winterbourne Medieval Barn, 7pm. Prof Hutton explores why Joan of Arc became so famous and we know about her.

Advanced booking advised via www.winterbournebarn.org.uk.

August 19 n WINTERBOURNE DOWN & DISTRICT HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY FLOWER & VEGETABLE SHOW, The Greenfield Centre, Park Avenue, Winterbourne. Staging from 8.30-10.30am, show open to visitors 2-4pm. First show since 2019, classes for flowers, fruit, veg, homecraft and photography.

Schedules from Richard on 01454 773218.

August 24 n BAT WALK with Drink & Nibbles, Winterbourne Medieval Barn, 7.30pm. Naturalist Ed Drewitt guides an evening walk around the nature reserve, listening and watching for bats and birds, with

To advertise, contact Richard on 01454 800 120

complimentary drink from the bar or tea/coffee afterwards. Not recommended for under 12s. More details at www.winterbournebarn. org.uk.

REGULAR EVENTS n MONDAY: WINTERBOURNE FLOWER CLUB now meets at WADCA in Watleys End Road, Winterbourne. Meetings are on the second Monday of the month between 2pm and 4pm. Call 01454 776753 for details. n MONDAY: FRAMPTON SINGALONG meets on the first Monday in the month at Crossbow House, School Road, Frampton Cotterell, 2-3.30pm. Live music from The Jays & The Rosettes. £5, refreshments included. Carers free.

All profits to UNICEF supporting children affected by Ukraine war.

More details 07515 351 813. n MONDAY: WINTERBOURNE DOWN LADIES PROBUS CLUB meets at 2pm on the third Monday of each month at All Saints Church Hall, Winterbourne Down. Talk followed by refreshments, £3.50 visitor, £25 annual membership.

Call 01454 773647 for more details. n TUESDAY: WINTERBOURNE DOWN METHODIST CHURCHDrop in for free cup of tea and chat or play board games, every Tuesday from 2-4pm. n TUESDAY: SUNRIDGE GOLF CROQUET CLUB meets on Tuesday and Thursday afternoons in Coalpit Heath and has players at all levels. Learn how to play, club equipment is available to use.

Contact croquet@wilko.eclipse.co.uk or call 07977 201440. n TUESDAY - CRAFTING: Come and join our group of crafters on the first Tuesday of every month in the Red Brick Annexe, Manor Hall, Coalpit Heath, BS36 2TG from 2-4pm. Bring your own project. £4 per session: Kay 07792189276. n WEDNESDAY: GENTLE SHIBASHI TAI CHI AND RELAXATION, accessible to all, 10.30-11.30am and 11.45am12.45pm, Winterbourne Medieval Barn, Church Lane, Winterbourne.

Contact Jenny on 07855 560257or jksmith@blueyonder.co.uk for more information. n WEDNESDAY DOWNEND FLOWER ARRANGING CLUB meets at 7.30pm on 1st & 3rd Wednesday each month from September to June at Lincombe Barn, Overndale Road. Call Genise on 0777 245 1217 for information. n THURSDAY: WINTERBOURNE WINDS, a friendly amateur wind

band who play a wide range of music including pop, musicals and classical, rehearse at Frenchay Village Hall from 7.40-9.30pm.

New members are welcome.

For more information email winterbournewinds@yahoo.com. n THURSDAY: COELIAC UK LOCAL CAFÉ MEET-UP, every third Thursday of the month, 10-11.30am, at Iron Acton Garden Centre cafe. Join us to share experiences of living gluten free. For more details email volunteering@coeliac.org.uk. n THURSDAY: CROSSBOW CAMERA CLUB meets every Thursday evening at 7.45pm at Crossbow House, School Road, Frampton Cotterell. Small friendly group who enjoy looking at and taking pictures. Call 0789 026 6650 or just turn up for free taster sessions. n BRISTOL MALE VOICE CHOIR are recruiting new members. 7pm - 9.15pm, St Andrew’s Methodist Church, Elm Park, Filton, BS34 7PS. A varied repertoire, no audition.

No need to read music - our regular practices will get you in shape to sing at our regular concerts and enjoy the social vibe. www.bristolmvc.org.uk email secretary@bristolmvc.org. uk Telephone 07764447699. n THURSDAY: HAMBROOK MEN’S PROBUS CLUB meets on the 1st and 3rd Thursday of each month, 10am-noon at Whiteshill Chapel, Hambrook, with a speaker at each meeting. Friendly group, new members welcome. For more details call the secretary on 01454 778250. n FRIDAY: FROME VALLEY ART GROUP meets at the Greenfield Centre, Winterbourne each Friday 2-4pm or 7-9pm. Thriving club with demonstrations and workshops from visiting professional artists. More details online at winterbourneart.uk or email fromevalleyartwinterbourne@gmail. com. n SUNDAYS: GROUP GUIDED RELAXATION SESSIONS Manor Hall, Coalpit Heath, from 8pm - 8:30pm ran fortnightly on Sundays. A welcoming and cosy place to just switch off and be guided into blissful relaxation.

Contact Julie from Awaken Me awakenmehypnotherapy@ yahoo.com or visit http://www. awakenmehypnotherapy.co.uk

Email: contact@fromevalleyvoice.co.uk

August, 2023

fromevalleyvoice

25

n ADVERTISING FEATURE

n LIBRARY NEWS

THIS year marks 180 years since the SS Great Britain was launched into Bristol harbour – changing global travel forever.

To celebrate, Brunel’s SS Great Britain are welcoming children 16 years and under for free this summer when you book tickets online.

Highlights include an exciting new food trail – ‘Birthday Banquet Blunder’ – where families can follow a series of clues hidden throughout the ship. The trail will teach children about the food that passengers would have eaten on board.

Iona Keen, Head of Interpretation at Brunel’s SS Great Britain said: “The new ‘Birthday Banquet Blunder’ family trail is a fun way of showcasing the sights, sounds and smells of a Victorian voyage. And there’s a culinary twist to tie in with our 180th anniversary this summer – families can help solve party preparation blunders, all based on real life events that happened on board the ship.”

Visitors can also step back in time by peering through a pair of augmented reality binoculars that will transport them to 1843. Created

by Zubr, a leading augmented reality studio based in the South West, the experience will allow visitors to see the ship and the floating harbour as they were 180 years ago.

Book a visit between 19 July and 3 September to redeem the ‘Kids Go Free This Summer’ offer. Terms & conditions apply. ssgreatbritain.org/summer

WINTERBOURNE Library is hosting a series of free activities to tie in with this year's Summer Reading Challenge.

Ready, Steady, Read challenges primary school-age children to read six books by September 9 to earn a medal.

The library's activities are: August 1 (10.30-11.25am) Zoolab (already fully booked) August 5 (10-11am) Lego club August 11 (10.30-11.30am) Ready, Set, Go craft session August 18 (10.30-11.30am) Ready, Set, Make craft session August 25 (10.30-11.30am) Junk Box challenge model making For more information on the reading challenge, visit www.southglos. gov.uk/summerreadingchallenge Story time begins again on September 1, from 9.30-10am.

Lego club next meets on September 2, from 10am to 11am, for children of all ages.

Regular Rhymetimes take place on Wednesdays, 9.30am-10am.

Suitable for babies aged up to 18 months.

An adult craft group meets on August 12 and 19, from 10am-noon: join a friendly group of crafters to do your own work and chat – refreshments available.

A new coffee afternoon starts on Friday September 1, from 2-3pm.

Come and join us for a friendly chat and a cuppa, meet old friends, make new friends (board games, puzzles and newspapers available).

Everyone welcome!

A digital champion can help people get online, use a PC or phone. The volunteer is available on Fridays from 10am-noon: booking is essential.

The library is staffed on Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday from 10am5pm, and on Saturday from 9.30am-12.30pm. Open Access is seven days a week between 8am and 7.30pm.

For more details of events or bookings, visit the library, email Winterbourne.library@southglos.gov.uk or phone 01454 868006.

More information is available online at www.southglos.gov.uk/libraries or from library staff.

Kids go free this summer at Brunel’s ss Great Britain

Got News? Call Richard 0n 01454 800 120

Email: contact@fromevalleyvoice.co.uk

fromevalleyvoice

26

n COMMUNITY NEWS Winterbourne Down & District Horticultural Society AT last the society is holding its main show again, having not had one since 2019.

The Flower & Vegetable Show will take place on Saturday August 19 at the Greenfield Centre, Park Avenue, Winterbourne. Produce at a previous horticultural society show This show is open to anybody, so now is your chance to enter anything you have in your garden or allotment in the flowers, fruit and veg and categories, plus there’s a homecraft section and a photographic section, with various subjects to choose from.

Schedules can be obtained from Richard on 01454 773218.

Staging is from 8.30am to 10.30am and the show is open to visitors from 2pm to 4pm, when the cups and shields will be presented.

At least we’ve now had some rain to help our plants along.

There are bound to be a few categories you might be able to enter – the more the merrier to make it a good show.

Gill Parker

Coalpit Heath WI BRIONY May Williams, from Series 9 of Bake Off, was the guest speaker at our July meeting.

Briony was a very entertaining speaker and happy to chat to members before and after the meeting, which was a delight to those of us who

had followed her progress in the tent.

We found out that she nearly set the tent on fire making naan bread and that Paul Hollywood is quite terrifying, although he was very kind after a baking disaster.

Briony May Williams at Since Coalpit Heath WI the Bake Off finished Briony has worked on Food Unwrapped, Escape to the Country, and Morning Live. We’re keeping our fingers crossed for her Strictly dream.

Briony very kindly judged the cupcake competition and named the strawberry cupcakes made by Lucy as the winners, with Sarah’s blueberry and lemon being highly commended.

Our day trips and theatre group has been out again, this time to a wine tasting at Averys.

Our next meeting is on August 2, with a talk from Rob Jones, a dad of triplets.

If you fancy coming along and seeing what we have to offer you would be most welcome.

We meet on the first Wednesday of each month in St Saviour’s church hall at 7.45pm.

Caroline Johnston

Crossbow Singers CROSSBOW Singers are now taking their muchdeserved summer break after another very successful summer concert.

We welcomed two very lively audiences, who enjoyed flag-waving and singing along to various national pieces, including Jerusalem and Land of Hope and Glory, to mark the coronation of King Charles III. The concert was a mix of traditional pieces and songs from the musicals, arranged and conducted by musical director Carolyn Dutton and accompanied by pianist Mary Darby.

August, 2023 The highlight was the guest appearance of an Elvis-impersonating Pharoah, played by Simon Broomsgrove supported by a hand jiving choir, singing Andrew Lloyd Webber’s, Pharoah’s Story.

We would like to pay tribute after the very sad news of the passing of Ruth Hunt, who was the choir’s first musical director.

Ruth, who we knew as Ruth Mellet, founded the choir in 1975 and conducted the Crossbow Singers and the Frampton Cotterell Male Voice Choir for many years, even meeting her lovely second husband, Godfrey, through music, as he was a chorister in both choirs.

Ruth will be sadly missed, but brought much joy to many people over the years thanks to her musical talent and we are so pleased that our choir continues as strong as ever – a testament to her vision for community music making.

Louise Lewis

Winterbourne Evening WI OUR July speaker’s talk was listed as “Mr Douglass Comes to Town”.

An intriguing title, and nobody seemed to know what this was about.

Mark Steeds then explained that Frederick Douglass was an escaped American slave who came to Bristol in 1846 to give a lecture to the many local people who were passionate to abolish slavery. With excellent pictures to illustrate his talk, Mark told us of the Bristol families, and especially the women – Mary Carpenter, Dr Elizabeth Blackwell and Mary Estlin - who were involved in this abolitionist cause.

These people, Mark said, deserve to be better known and even have statues erected in their memory. We learnt a lot about this important topic and realised there was another side to the Colston debate that should be discussed further.

We have no WI meeting in August, but on September 14 we will hold a Harvest Sales table and Claire Mills will talk on “The Darker Side of the Box Tunnel” – at St Michael’s School, Linden Close, Winterbourne, BS36 1LG at 7.30 pm.

Visitors will be most welcome.

Margaret Grazebrook

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fromevalleyvoice

August, 2023

27

n FRAMPTON NATURE

Our highflying birds OUR high-flying summer visitors swallows, house martins and swifts - are now busy looking after young.

As the season changes they will once again be making their epic journeys over thousands of miles to Africa.

Swallows can be recognised by their long tail streamers, house martins by their shorter forked tail and white rump, and swifts by their dark colouring and long curving wings.

All three are very agile fliers - superbly adapted to catching insects on the wing.

Swallows and house martins are in the same family but swifts are not related - their closest relatives are actually the hummingbirds.

Swifts are the highest fliers of

A swallow in flight. Picture: David Hanks. the three, and the most aerial of all birds. They spend almost all of their lives in the air - eating, sleeping and mating on the wing, and landing only to nest.

They are the fastest birds in level flight, reaching speeds of almost 70 miles per hour. It is thought that they are able to sleep on the wing by flying to a height of around 10,000 feet and sleeping with half their brain at a time.

They spend around three months of the year in the UK and nine months in Africa, where they have never been found to roost.

Sadly, these amazing birds have been disappearing from our summer skies.

Both swifts and house martins are now red listed, due to steep declines in their populations.

We’ve lost more than half of our house martins and swifts in just the last few decades.

The main reasons are thought to be the loss of nesting sites and the catastrophic decline in insect numbers.

Extreme weather events, due to climate change, are also likely to be negatively impacting migratory birds.

You can do your bit to help swifts and house martins in the garden by allowing some grass to grow long, growing wildflowers, creating a pond and by not using pesticides.

All these actions will benefit the insect populations on which the birds depend.

There are also nest boxes available that you could make space for when doing any building or renovation work.

Frampton Cotterell Nature are surveying swift and house martin nests so we can monitor our local population.

If you know of any nest sites, or you’re lucky enough to have these birds nesting in your house, then please let us know on our Facebook group, or email us at framptoncotterellnature@gmail. com.

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fromevalleyvoice

28

n COMMUNITY NEWS Frampton Cotterell WI FOR our June talk, Tim Fussel from Fussels Rapeseed Oil, of Somerset, came to tell us all about his journey from farming and production processes for the range of oils that they created and produce, through to surviving a pandemic and beyond.

This was followed by a product tasting, and members were then able to purchase from the range of award-winning oils on the night.

Tim is a born entertainer and a good time was certainly had by all!

June’s events also included a visit to Acton Court and a trip to the Bristol Botanical Gardens.

Our July talk, on the 25th, was Crime and the Serial Killer, by Rob Jones.

There is no meeting in August - we are, however, meeting for a luxury cream tea at Tortworth Court, which we’re all looking forward to.

Our next meeting is Confessions of a Lawyer, a talk by Carole Darling, on September 26.

We have many other events/socials lined up for the coming year, including a monthly lunch

®

August, 2023

club, open to all members and held at a different local venue each time.

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

Watch this space and our Facebook page for future event dates and details.

Winterbourne Down WI OUR July talk was called ‘The King and his 15 wives’.

It depicted not only the life of King Mswati III, king of Eswatini, formerly Swaziland, but also the scenery, wildlife and culture of this landlocked country in Southern Africa.

It is the size of Wales with a population of 1.2 million residents, where people of all ethnic origins live in harmony.

Speaker Jenny Bowen, who studied ecology at Leeds University, taught us so much about the wildlife of Eswatini, imitating the sounds of lions and various birds. She is very passionate about the country and its people and is a director of Sense Earth, which creates tailormade holidays and adventures for adults and school groups.

This month we are having a coffee and catch-up morning at a member’s house.

As there is no WI meeting in August we are looking forward to an American-style lunch in Victoria’s garden and we are hoping for good weather for this event.

Our September meeting is on the 7th at 7.30pm at All St Saints’ Church Hall and members will be participating in ‘A Reality Game Show’. Guests are welcome.

Victoria Goodman

Floral Friends of Frampton Thank you to local business A J Homes, who are generously sponsoring a number of our planters around the village.

Thanks also to those who have donated to us online. You know who you are, and we very much appreciate your support.

All support, whether from individuals or businesses, whether financial or in kind, is gratefully accepted and acknowledged.

Donations can be made either in person or on-line. Our bank details are: Floral Friends of Frampton, Lloyds 30-98-97, account number 70582363.

I know it seems early to be thinking about autumn when it’s still sunny and warm but a date for your diary - our Autumn Fayre will take place on Saturday October 28, at the Brockeridge Centre.

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fromevalleyvoice

August, 2023

29

n SPORT

Georgina strikes gold on England boccia debut THE founder of an accessible sports club is celebrating her first England cap - and gold medal.

Georgina Moore, who grew up in Frampton Cotterell, made her international debut in the Boccia UK teams and pairs open competition in Swansea in July.

She was competing in the BC3 (ramping) pairs category with Lee Maddison, from Stocktonon-Tees.

Despite only having one opportunity to meet up beforehand to train, they beat top teams from Northern Ireland, Wales and two other England pairs, including highlyranked players, to take the gold.

Georgina, who lives in Chipping Sodbury, said: "The final was very close, against another England team, but we won it 3-1.

"It was such an honour to represent England but to win gold has just been the most incredible experience!

"I am so grateful for all the support I’ve received, especially

Georgina Moore with the winning GEM team - Steve Owens, Max Dewfall, Tom Ainsworth and Chloe Cockram. the crucial funding I get from SportsAid." Georgina now has her sights set on representing Great Britain in the Paralympic Games, winning more medals along the way.

But she needs more funding to keep going, as each competition costs at least £300 in travel, accommodation and

entry costs for Georgina, who has a severe physical disability, to attend with carers.

She said: "There is no way I can afford that living on benefits during this cost-of-living crisis.

"Unfortunately boccia is very expensive but it’s the only fully accessible sport out there that I can compete in."

Georgina is asking businesses

or individuals who would be willing to sponsor her to supplement the funding she has from SportsAid to get in touch.

Georgina's GEM Boccia Club, based at Yate Leisure Centre, has also made a winning start to competitive sport.

The GEMs won the sport's National League, contested by teams throughout the country, in its launch season.

Winning the West regional contest put them through to the national finals in Nottingham, where they won all four of their matches to take the trophy and qualify for the sport's Super League next season.

Georgina said: "They have done amazingly well, as this was their first year competing as a team together.

"Myself and coach Tom are super proud of them and they’ve worked so hard this season."

Sponsors can contact Georgina at georgemoore83@ gmail.com.

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30

August, 2023

n SPORT

Tennis courts are revamped

and new courts by celebrating Wimbledon in style, with traditional strawberries and cream after their day's play.

Club nights, social tennis, children and adult coaching, cardio tennis and league matches are now back to normal.

This year Summer Tennis Camp for children age five and over continues until August 25.

For more information contact Imed Hamrouni on 0745 963 6436 or email imedhamroumi@msn. com.

Dave Goldie The new blue courts WORK on resurfacing Winterbourne Tennis Club's courts and installing new energy-saving floodlights is now coming to an end.

Local dog walkers, passers-by and WTC members have all been following the progress with keen interest!

Despite a rainy start, the weather has not had a big impact on the progress of the work and the bright blue courts appeared in late June, to everyone's delight.

Ladies Social Tennis started back on July 4 and those who took part gave the new courts a big thumbs-up.

They also made the most of the glorious weather

IT was with great sadness that we said farewell to our top league player, Dave Goldie, who recently passed away after a short illness, aged 70.

Dave’s commitment to tennis and his dedication to the club will be commemorated with the new WTC Dave Goldie Award.

Dave will be long-remembered as one of the most enthusiastic and longest-serving members at the club. He will be sorely missed.

Elsa Looij

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A YATE swimming club is celebrating its 50th anniversary next month.

Southwold Swimming Club was set up in 1973 by five founding members.

It was named after the then Southwold swimming pool, now known as Yate Leisure Centre, where the club still trains.

The club is still going strong 50 years on, with 175 swimmers on the register, ranging from four-year-old beginners in our Learn to Swim section up to Masters squad members aged 50.

This year also marks the 10year anniversary of head coach Simon Wilkins.

To celebrate the club is inviting current and former swimmers, coaches and their families to a 50th anniversary celebration at Crossbow House in Frampton Cotterell on Saturday September 9 at 7.30pm.

For tickets and more information contact Laura Perry at southwold@ swimclubmanager.co.uk.

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August, 2023

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