Frome Valley Voice December 2021

fromevalleyvoice www.fromevalleyvoice.co.uk

December, 2021 Issue 100

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

Stop poisoning our children!

100 not out!

THIS is the 100th edition of the Frome Valley Voice. To celebrate the milestone we are looking back at stories, people and front pages we have featured since our first edition in 2013.

PAGES 19-21

Mummers return

Members of Winterbourne and Frome Valley Environmental Group have launched a campaign to persuade parents on the school run and other drivers to switch off car engines when they are at a standstill, with the warning: "We are poisoning our children at the school gates." Full story: Page 12

'Mean and nasty' conman jailed A WINTERBOURNE conman who stole £1,200 from a pensioner has been jailed.

James O’Driscoll stole from an 80-year-old woman after saying he would give her garden a makeover.

The rogue trader also towed away a car left legitimately in a car park and tried to charge the owner £1,000 to give it back.

He was one of two people from Winterbourne prosecuted by South Gloucestershire Council for targeting vulnerable victims, with a second conman being fined for targeting a 91-year-old woman.

The council is calling on people to come forward and report scams.

Full story: Page 2

ONE of Winterbourne Down's Boxing Day traditions will return as the village's mummers perform on the streets again.

PAGE 3

Better bus links are on the way BUS links between the Frome Valley, Yate and Bristol are set to be improved as part of a £540 million investment in transport.

PAGE 4

Park tribute

A village park could be renamed in celebration of Queen's Platinum Jubilee.

PAGE 3

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January deadline Our January deadline is December 13.

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Editor

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

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

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

Complaints Despite our best efforts, we sometimes get things wrong. We always try to resolve issues informally at first but we also have a formal complaints procedure. If you have a complaint about anything in Frome Valley Voice, contact the publisher using the details below. We aspire to follow the Code of Conduct of the NUJ (National Union of Journalists), which holds journalists to a high standard of behaviour.

Further details of the complaints process can be found on the Voice website here, or can be obtained by contacting the Publisher.

PUBLISHER’S NOTE: Frome Valley Voice Voice is independent. We cannot take responsibility for content or accuracy of adverts, and it is advertisers’ responsibility to conform to all relevant legislation. We cannot vouch for any services offered. Opinions are not necessarily those of the editor.

Frome Valley Voice is distributed each month to local residents. If for some reason you do not get a copy, please get in touch or collect one from local pick-up points. Feedback is welcomed, call Richard On 01454 800 120 or richard@fromevalleyvoice.co.uk

A member of the

December, 2021

n NEWS

Conman left garden 'like a desert' A WINTERBOURNE rogue trader has been jailed for a year and eight months after a trading standards investigation into his crimes.

South Gloucestershire Council prosecuted James O’Driscoll, of Northwood Park after pleading guilty to two charges of theft.

Bristol Crown Court heard the 59-year-old stole £1,200 from a pensioner after cold calling at her house in Bradley Stoke last August.

He made an agreement with the 80-year-old woman to clear her back garden, re-fence it and build a summer house, took the money up front for materials, carried out very little work to clear her garden and then disappeared.

The court heard that O'Driscoll had left the woman's garden "like a desert, essentially", and had decided he could get away with it because of her vulnerability.

Trading standards officers identified O’Driscoll and offered him the opportunity to re-pay the £1,200, but he failed to do so.

They then established that Avon and Somerset Police wanted to question O’Driscoll over an incident in March of that year where he removed a Toyota Hilux pick-up truck from a church car park using a recovery vehicle.

He had no permission from the owner to remove it.

On being challenged in the car park he had produced a business card and the owner had called a phone number on it but told her the car was in a scrap yard.

He demanded £1,000 he would return it to her.

The council said trading standards prosecuted both cases and, after O’Driscoll repeatedly failed to turn up at court, he was remanded in custody before being jailed.

As he was sentenced the judge told O’Driscoll his offences were "mean and nasty", had a history of similar behaviour and had avoided attempts to resolve the matters without the need for prosecution.

A second rogue trader living at Northwood Park traveller site, Richard O’Driscoll, was later prosecuted for a roofing scam.

Bristol Magistrates heard that the 22-year-old defendant had called at the Kingswood home of a woman aged 91 in March this year and told her she had tiles loose on her roof.

He implied that he was working on a nearby house, where another building company was carrying out work and persuaded the woman to let him work on her roof.

He carried out 45 minutes' work on the ridge tiles of the property and successfully got £350 in cash from the woman – but her family called in trading standards as they did not think any work needed doing in the first place.

Richard O’Driscoll, who was trading as Rightseal Roofing, pleaded guilty to three unfair trading offences Regulations 2008, which were committed in March 2021.

He was fined £900 and ordered to pay £500 in costs.

Council cabinet member for communities Rachael Hunt said: “We do not tolerate rogue traders here in South Gloucestershire and we will not hesitate to prosecute anyone who operates in this manner."

The council was unable to say whether the two defendants were connected.

Anyone needing to report rogue trading is being urged to call 0808 223 1133.

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fromevalleyvoice

December, 2021

3

n NEWS

Mummers will return to streets this Christmas ONE of Winterbourne Down's Boxing Day traditions will return this year after going online during last year's lockdown.

The Annual Winterbourn Down Mummers Play by the Christmas Boys and Morris Dancers will be staged four times outdoors around the village, with people encouraged to come along, watch and support local charity Paul's Place.

Organiser Terry Martin said performers were looking forward to seeing old friends again after live performances fell victim to the pandemic last year.

The play's roots go back for centuries but it almost died out forever after the First World

This year the story will be told on the streets again

War, when one of the players was killed in action.

But thanks to a group of villagers and an elderly resident who remembered the words, the play was revived in 1979 and attracts crowds of up to 300 people each year.

Last year the Christmas Boys got together before lockdown in the Cross Hands pub to video a performance of the play.

It was streamed on a JustGiving page and the group raised £1,140 – double the usual total – for Coalpit Heath charity Paul's Place, which provides services for adults with physical disabilities.

This year the mummers back out performing in the streets - but are again embracing technology, with a QR code to enable audience members to make a donation by phone in addition to the traditional bucket collection.

Terry said: "On behalf of the Christmas Boys I know that we are all really looking forward to Boxing Day, where once again the Turkish Knight will hopefully miss the puddles when he meets his demise at the hands of St

Last year's mummers play was recorded in advance and streamed online George, who will of course be revived by the Doctor, thus sparing our already overwhelmed hospital.

"And who will be the ‘lucky old lady of 99’ this year?

"It will be magical to once again meet up with old friends who have followed us for years, some in fact for nearly every performance over the past 40plus years.

"We wish you all a Joyous and Merry Christmas."

Performances take place at 10.30am in Stone Lane, 11am at All Saints Church Hall, 11.45am at Colston Close and 12.15pm at the Cross Hands.

Last year was the first time the mummers used different colours instead of the traditional black face paint, even though the tradition is thought to have been based on using soot to disguise players, rather than having any racial element.

Park could be renamed FRAMPTON Cotterell Parish council is asking residents for their views on plans to rename The Park in celebration of Queen's Platinum Jubilee.

The council has launched an online survey asking people if they would like the open space off School Road to be renamed Queen Elizabeth II Park next year, when the Queen marks 70 years of her reign.

In a message to residents, the council said: "Town and parish councils across the country are choosing various ways, from the more traditional street parties and fêtes through to the planting of trees to commemorate this occasion throughout the year.

Frampton Cotterell Parish Council, in conjunction with the 2nd Frampton Cotterell Scout Group and The Woodlands Trust, has already agreed to plant 315 trees at the Centenary Field to improve its biodiversity and celebrate the Platinum Jubilee.

"The Frampton Festival Committee are also exploring the possibility of holding their annual event over the official Jubilee weekend.

"This proposal is that Frampton Cotterell Parish Council officially marks the occasion by formally renaming The Park in Frampton Cotterell to Queen Elizabeth II Park."

The council says the move would involve replacing existing signs to bear the new name and holding an official renaming ceremony in June next year, when the Platinum Jubilee celebrations are due to take place.

People can take part in the survey anonymously by visiting the council's website at framptoncotterell-pc.gov.uk/survey-onrenaming-the-park.

Anyone not online should call 01454 864442 for more information.

Got News? Call Richard 0n 01454 800 120

Email: contact@fromevalleyvoice.co.uk

henleaze&westburyvoice fromevalleyvoice

30 4

December, December, 2021 2021

n NEWS

Major bus improvements are on the way BUS links between the Frome Valley, Yate and Bristol are set to be improved as part of a £540 million investment in transport.

Money from the City Region Sustainable Transport Settlement announced in November will be used to make improvements to bus routes on Badminton Road and the Avon Ring Road More details of the schemes to improve the A432 and A4174 are expected to be revealed when public consultations begin around the turn of the year.

Both schemes will aim to deliver a "variety of measures to improve sustainable transport", according to the West of England Combined Authority, which will spend the money – equivalent to £560 per person in the region.

In a separate development a major revamp of bus services across the region will see daily

and weekly fares capped and improved daytime and evening services.

Contactless London-style tap-on, tap-off payments will allow passengers to hop across different operators, under-11s will ride for free and under-18s will get half-price discounts.

Five months of talks have begun between transport authorities and bus companies to move towards seamless travel, which will eventually include trains, with new local low-fare zones.

One common transport brand will be created for the West of England, inspired by Transport for London, with the same livery on all single and double-deckers.

Most buses already accept contactless cards but tickets are only valid on services run by the same firm, while ‘tap and cap’ is available only on First buses for

daily and weekly tickets in flatfare zones.

The improvements are outlined in the region's Bus Service Improvement Plan, submitted to the government by the West of England Combined Authority and North Somerset Council at the end of October.

Negotiations with operators are due to be completed by March 31 before the plan undergoes public consultation, with a view to coming into force 70 days later, on June 10.

West of England Metro Mayor Dan Norris said the plan would make bus travel "simpler and cheaper", with "one set daily price" for passengers.

He said: "I want to make it as easy as possible for people to do the right thing so they can greatly reduce car journeys and use public transport, walk, cycle and wheel, so we can reach our

very ambitious net zero 2030 target and deal with congestion, pollution, and obesity."

First West of England managing director Doug Claringbold said the company welcomed the improvement plan's "level of ambition".

He said: “Our focus is on improving the experience for our customers, with a commitment to a zero emission fleet by 2035, the roll-out of tap-on, tap-off contactless capping across our network in 2022, a more flexible ticket offer that meets changing travel needs and ultimately, the operation of faster, more reliable services made possible by the delivery of the bus priority measures set out in the BSIP.”

By Adam Postans, Local Democracy Reporting Service

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Bridging Histories is inviting people across the Bristol region to join in activities and share what they make. They are asking families, schools and workplaces to get involved in exploring what makes Bristol tick.

Groups across Bristol have already been getting stuck in. Barton Hill History Group is creating new heritage trails. At Hoo Haw Children’s Art Festival, Scrapstore and Bristol Beacon created a Bristol skyline and got kids filling it with their own monuments. People have shared poems and their history.

Dr Joanna Burch-Brown, Senior Lecturer in Philosophy at the University of Bristol is part of the team behind the Bridging Histories project. They are looking to get as many people as possible involved.

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December, 2021

5

n NEWS

Christmas is coming . . . on two wheels WINTERBOURNE Academy will host a big, bright and loud welcome to the festive season when hundreds of bikers dressed as Father Christmas roll in.

The school will host the Santa’s On A Bike fundraiser for the Children's Hospice South West on December 4.

Riders of motorbikes, trikes and quad bikes will gather at the school from 11am on Saturday, December 4, before setting off in a spectacular parade from 1pm, dressed as Santas, snowmen, elves and reindeer.

They will ride down to the hospice's local base at Charlton Farm in Wraxall, where it offers treatment and support to children with life-limiting conditions and their families.

People are being invited to come down, listen to a band from the school play carols, buy cakes, see the spectacle and make a donation, with all money collected going direct to the Children's Hospice South West charity.

Head teacher Jason Beardmore told the Voice that as a "life-long biker" himself, he was very pleased to be able to arrange for the school to host the event with Oli Allen from Santa’s On A Bike. He said: "We are expecting hundreds of Santas, snowmen, elves and reindeer riding bikes covered in festive decorations."

The event is just one of the fundraising efforts Winterbourne students have been working on this term.

The school's recentlyappointed 2021 Charity Committee – led by Year 11s Caius Hallet and Jacob Campbell and students from Years 7 to 9 – are planning a year filled with charitable endeavours to "forge positive social change within the

school and also help and support those in the local community and far beyond".

The team is involving fellow pupils in a Christmas shoebox appeal for refugees from Afghanistan.

They said: "Having discovered that there are a sizeable amount of Afghan refugees now based in Bristol, Mr Beardmore thought it would be great for our shoebox appeal to bring some light and hope to children who have had to flee from the fears and danger of Afghanistan.

"We decided to support some local domestic abuse and children’s homes as well.

"We think it paramount for the whole school to get involved and so 100s of Year 7 to Year 13 students are currently beavering away to fill boxes with all sorts of delights to bring these young Afghan refugees some Christmas cheer at a tempestuous time, so that hopefully they can begin to see a light at the end of the tunnel."

The committee is aiming to beat the school's last appeal, which filled 254 boxes, by its December 10 deadline, and is welcoming shoeboxes of gifts from any supporters form outside the school, who can drop them off at the reception.

They said: "Just decide if the box is for a boy or girl and fill it with new gifts such as toys, hairbands, body spray, playing cards, a diary or colouring pens – you get the idea!"

A clothes collection for Afghan refugees and fundraising cinema night are planned for next year.

For more information on the Santa run visit www. santasonabike.org.uk.

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A parade of festive bikers is coming to Winterbourne

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December, 2021

n NEWS

School studies festival of light CHILDREN at St Michael’s Primary School in Winterbourne have been learning about Diwali, the Hindu festival of light.

Pupils learned from a family with children attending the school, who came into the Reception and Year 4 classes to talk about the festival and show how to celebrate it.

Head teacher Kirsty Robson and Year 4 teacher Leanne Peachey tried on saris as part of the celebration.

The school is now looking towards Christmas, with plays and carol services being planned. Reception pupils are putting together a nativity play, while year 1 and Year 2 pupils are working on a show called ‘An Alien Christmas’.

Both shows are being recorded for parents and Mrs Peachey said: "By doing our performances in this way, it means the whole family can enjoy watching the children without any worries about covid restrictions."

A Christingle service for the children will be held in St Michael’s Church, with performances from older pupils, and a school Christmas fair is due to take place on December 3, from 3.30pm-5pm.

Teachers and pupils celebrate Diwali Meanwhile former pupil and current Metro Mayor Dan Norris went back to St Michael’s in November to cut a ribbon to officially open the school's outdoor play area, which includes a tree house, climbing wall, mud kitchen and a music and water wall.

Mr Norris said: "I loved my time here but I really wish they’d had a tree house when I was at St Michael’s!"

Metro Mayor Dan Norris cuts the ribbon to officially open the outdoor area

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fromevalleyvoice

December, 2021

n NEWS A FORMER nurse from Frampton Cotterell who had to learn to write again after a brain tumour has published her first book.

Dawn Hamill, who has also survived breast cancer, has spent the past five years researching and writing a book which documents how various benefactors established schools to help working class adults read and write.

Originally from Birmingham, Dawn moved to Frampton Cotterell in 2001 to take up a nurse consultant post in infection prevention and control at North Bristol NHS Trust.

It then became a national role, involving extensive travelling around the country.

However in 2008, following an out-of-the-blue seizure, she was diagnosed with an aggressive brain tumour and had emergency surgery the following day.

Complications meant two further brain surgeries which eventually forced her to retire.

Dawn said: “I slowly re-learnt to walk, write and get on with my incredibly different life. I was

7

Dawn writes book after overcoming brain tumour

Dawn with her book left with a semi-paralysed left leg, epilepsy and fatigue amongst other changes because, as they say, 'air on the brain – never the same!'"

To fill her days, Dawn started researching and writing the

history of an organisation called the Midland Adult School Union, in which her mother had been involved via The Rubery Adult School Class.

Although the book, The Last Class - The Story of the Midland Adult School Union 1845-2020, concentrates mainly on the Midlands, to her surprise Dawn discovered a connection to South Gloucestershire, to which she devoted a whole chapter in the book.

She said: “I met Alison Barlow in December 2015 when I joined a community choir in Chipping Sodbury. Alison lives in Horton with her husband Keith and they both sing in the choir.

"When I mentioned the research I was doing on the Adult School, Alison excitedly told me that her mom Jean Arnold and her father John Arnold,

both Quakers, had been active members of the Birmingham Gooch Street and Bull Street Adult School classes until their move to Bristol some years later before Alison was born."

Although she has some mobility issues following her health problems, Dawn says that writing her book has given her huge pleasure.

Her next project is to research the links to the Adult School in Bristol which was founded at a similar time to the organisation in Birmingham.

Anyone with information on the Bristol Adult School they would like to share with Dawn can contact her by email at differencedawns@gmail.com.

Dawn’s book can be ordered online from Brewin books at www.brewinbooks.com/the_ last_class or via Amazon.

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fromevalleyvoice

9

n NEWS

CAMRA guide gives pub's beer seal of approval THE landlord of a Frampton Cotterell pub says being recognised by the Campaign for Real Ale's Good Beer guide is an important part of recovering from the COVID-19 pandemic.

Lloyd Williams has run the Globe for the last 12 years and says that the past two have been extremely difficult, as people’s habits have changed drastically.

He said: "People have changed the way they live because of covid – we are still running at about 50% of pre-pandemic levels and, our staff and customers stay safe. importantly, the late-night "What we are finding is drinkers haven’t returned. people are eating and then going "Food is the main source of – they’re not hanging around for the business at the moment, hours afterwards to have a drink together with real ales. But with like they used to.” the darker nights and poorer Lloyd says that his loyal staff weather a lot of people are less have played a big part in keeping sure about coming inside. the Globe running during such a "We just have to keep difficult period and that the entry reassuring people that we are a in the latest edition of CAMRA's safe community pub, where we Good Beer guide is a tribute to take every precaution to ensure WB Generic AW.qxp_Layout 1 15/09/2020 21:14 Page 1 their efforts.

Lloyd Williams behind the bar at the Globe in Frampton Cotterell He said: "It's pretty important to be included, because it is a national guide and people follow it when they are planning trips and holidays.

"Real ale lovers plan their routes to take in good pubs and see where the quality is. And for the locals it is a confirmation of the quality beers that we keep.

"We’re a really friendly village pub, which is at the heart of the community next to the church.

"We play a role in supporting community events and give a warm welcome to everyone."

Apart from the core favourites like Tribute, Proper Job and London Pride, the Globe also features guest beers which are always popular, such as Jaipur from Thornbridge Brewery, Revelation from Dark Star and 12 Apostles from Bristol Beer Factory.

CAMRA national chairman Nik Antona said: "Pubs have faced a number of unique challenges since the first lockdown in March 2020, including long periods of closure, reduced turnover and higher overheads due to social distancing measures.

"As we begin to see the light at the end of the tunnel, we hope people will use the Good Beer Guide to visit excellent pubs across the country. They need your support now more than ever."

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December, 2021

n ADVERTISING FEATURE

Net Zero at Frenchay Christmas Tree Farm If COP26 has got you worried about what you can do about the climate crisis, an easy way to start is to visit Frenchay Christmas Tree Farm for your Christmas tree. Net zero means not adding to the amount of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere, namely carbon dioxide and methane. Buying local means you can really reduce your carbon footprint.

Frenchay Christmas Tree Farm is home to 40,000 Christmas trees spread over approximately 18 acres of green belt land next to the M32 motorway. All plants actively remove carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, and the Christmas trees - which are evergreen – do this all year round. With the heavy motorway traffic nearby, there certainly is no shortage of carbon dioxide for the trees to mop up.

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Kate and Simon Maughan, owners of Frenchay Christmas Tree Farm invite you to buy your tree locally this year this Christmas is to make sure that we buy as much as we can for the festive season from local suppliers, whether it is food for the table, presents for the tree, or the tree itself.”

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fromevalleyvoice

December, 2021

11

n NEWS

New life for school's outdoor classroom CHILDREN at a Coalpit Heath school have been enjoying the autumn weather in their forest school.

The Manor CE Primary School has had a large outdoor learning area for many years but it has recently been transformed after some trees died from ash dieback disease and needed to be removed.

Forest School leader Lucy Gray said the removal of the trees had opened up an area for a mud kitchen, decking and borders for the school pond and a wild flower site for bees and other pollinators.

She added: "We are able to recycle our own wood to burn on the fire by using the wood from the site and drying it in our new log store.

"We have also installed hand rails across the site by recycling branches to make access easier for children of all ages."

Mrs Gray teaches children throughout the school, with activities on offer ranging from using tools, fire safety and building, to arts and crafts and developing a greater understanding of the natural world and the environment.

Head teacher Amanda Flanagan said: "The children get so much out of these sessions and always look forward to them.

Children enjoying the autumn leaves and activities at the Manor CE Primary School's forest school area "We are very proud of our Forest School area and children love it even more since its transformation earlier this year!" *The Manor school is currently looking for a non-parent community volunteer to join its governing body.

The school is particularly interested in finding someone with skills and expertise in human resources and Health & Safety rules.

Anyone who is interested should email manorprimary@sgmail.org.uk for more information.

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fromevalleyvoice

12

December, 2021

n COMMUNITY NEWS DUNCAN Porter of the Winterbourne and Frome Valley Environmental Group explains why they are teaming up with school to tackle pollution at a local level.

SCHOOLS are encouraging parents and other drivers to turn off their engines while waiting nearby.

The no idling campaign is being run by Winterbourne and Frome Valley Environmental Group, who have funded new banners outside primary schools.

Hambrook and St Michael's primary schools are currently showcasing the campaign, and other local schools will join in after Christmas.

It's as simple as turning your key – switching off your engine saves you money and protects young children from air pollution!

According to the World Health Organisation, air pollution is one of the greatest environmental risks to health, responsible for over 4 million deaths each year internationally, killing more than HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis, malaria and road incidents combined.

It is a major health risk in the UK, with around 40,000 annual deaths associated with air pollution, according to the Royal College of Physicians.

Research is only now revealing further serious health and developmental impacts that were previously not understood.

Recent studies from Kings College revealed that in Bristol, five people die each week as

Environment group calls on drivers to switch off their engines

a result of high levels of air pollution.

In the villages of the Frome Valley, the main sources of air pollution are domestic wood burning and road traffic.

One of the easiest ways to reduce local air pollution is to stop engine idling, when a vehicle's engine is left running while stationary. This can be while in traffic, while parked and waiting outside the shops or school.

Many people don't realise that leaving an engine idling is an offence under the Road Traffic Act, which enforces rule 123 of the Highway Code: "You must not leave a vehicle engine running unnecessarily while the vehicle is stationary on a public road."

The law exists because leaving a stationary vehicle idling creates more concentrated localised pollution – 420 litres of exhaust fumes per minute for a family-sized car.

Diesel cars typically emit a more dangerous combination of fumes than petrol, but both can quickly raise pollution levels in a street to dangerous levels.

Schools at drop-off and pick-up times are among the key problem areas.

Children are among the most vulnerable to exhaust fumes, and recent studies have found small particulates from vehicle exhausts in every organ of the body, including the brain, with

links to cognitive problems and long term issues such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease.

We should care a great deal that pollution from our cars is having a direct impact on the development and function of young minds.

These emissions cause significant physical, often permanent damage and we are poisoning our children at the school gates.

We should also be concerned about the long term health impacts and the additional burden and cost to the NHS of treating chronic conditions, that we could easily avoid.

Unfortunately, we still live in a world where many people rely on a car that runs on fossil fuels, but this situation is not a foregone conclusion.

If your vehicle is going to be stationary for more than 10 seconds, you should switch off your engine. Stopping and starting a modern car will use less fuel than idling for 10 seconds.

If you need to drive to school, park a few minutes' walk away from the school gates to park and stride. This will reduce the concentration of traffic at the school gates, reducing the amount of poisonous fumes breathed by every child arriving or leaving. The additional exercise is also good for learning, especially if they can enjoy clean

air while doing so.

Speak to others about the impacts of air pollution and idling. Many people are completely unaware of the damage they are causing and that they are committing an offence.

Winterbourne and Frome Valley Environmental Group have created banners to remind people of the risks. They are currently displayed outside St Michael's in Winterbourne and Hambrook School.

Ask your schools to request "school streets" to restrict traffic at drop off times. These will cause inconvenience to some, but will provide a safe space where children can enter and leave the places we provide for them to learn without filling their lungs with poisonous fumes.

Join the fightback to make our communities a healthy and happier place to live.

Please visit the Winterbourne and Frome Valley Environmental Group website, www. winterbourne-environmental. uk, to find sources for the figures used in this article.

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December, 2021

13

n NEWS

Children learn Santa's spy secrets CHILDREN at Frampton Cotterell C of E Primary School discovered a new side to Father Christmas when the authors of a new book paid them a visit.

Santa’s Secret Agents has been written

by Downend dad Chris Wheeler and Steve Gunning, from Clevedon.

Chris came up with the idea for the book during a long car journey when he was so exasperated with his bored children that he warned them Father Christmas could see through the sunroof and would know they were being naughty.

His imagination fired, Chris, who is a software developer and runs a tech company called Foldr at the Bristol & Bath Science Park, came up with a story during the rest of the drive.

He teamed up with his friend Steve to create Santa’s Secret Agents, a children's picture book about a Bond-style spying operation to check children's behaviour using a network of spies and hidden cameras, which has now been published.

Chris said: "When I first brought the concept to Steve it was just a simple idea and a few verses.

"Together, with the support of our patient and loving families, through the twists and

Children from Frampton Cotterell C of E Primary School with authors Chris Wheeler and Steve Gunning, and one of Santa's spying teddy bears. turns of life, at least one narrative reboot and a global pandemic we were able to turn it into a fleshed-out story and then, with Steve's wonderful illustrations, a complete book."

The pair visited Frampton Cotterell Primary to share the story with children in six classes aged from Year 1 to Year 6.

Teacher Alison Coles said: “The children

at FCCE had a wonderful time meeting the authors of Santa’s Secret Agents and listening to the story.”

Santa’s Secret Agents, which is aimed at children aged five to ten, has been published

by Carraway and is being sold online by Waterstones and in bookshops.

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Email: contact@fromevalleyvoice.co.uk

fromevalleyvoice

14

December, 2021

n NEWS

A chance to learn about religion and remembrance CHILDREN at a Winterbourne school have been learning about religions with activities and visits.

Year 5 and 6 children from Elm Park Primary School in Nicholls Lane visited a mosque in Bristol as part of their studies.

Head teacher Carol-Marie Bond said the children were inspired by their visit, in which they saw people praying and had a presentation on Islam.

They wrote a report in which they said: "We all loved our experience and we hope that we can go there again."

Reception children have been learning about the story of Rama and Sita, central to the Hindu festival of Diwali, which was celebrated in early November.

They learned how to make Rangoli patterns used in Diwali celebrations.

The school's Year 3 and 4 children produced an assembly presentation for the school to help fellow pupils all understand why Remembrance Day is commemorated.

Mrs Bond said: "The children shared the different types of poppies people wear at this time of year and the symbolism behind them.

"They also created some incredible poetry and sang a song called ‘Fields of Poppies’.

Elm Park reception children get creative as they learn about Diwali This brought a tear to the eye of many adults watching.

"A huge thank you goes to all of the children for their excellent performance and to the staff involved for producing such a thought-provoking assembly.

"After the assembly, the whole school

gathered together on the Key Stage 2 playground and united for a minute’s silence.

"It was an incredible act of respect and remembrance and I felt truly humbled to be a part of it."

Children in the school's lower Key Stage 2 Chestnut, Willow and Oak classes have been studying warfare and how weapons have evolved over time. As part of their topic they visited Caerphilly Castle in Wales.

Mrs bond said: "As always, our children did us proud by showing respect, enthusiasm and curiosity on their visits.

"As part of our Connected Curriculum, we want to ensure that all children have the opportunity to learn about new things and gain true experience with their learning.

"Our teachers have continued to wow us with their creativity and enthusiasm for children’s learning."

Elm Park's next event is the school's Christmas Fayre, on Friday December 3 from 3.30pm, which has been organised by the school's newly-formed Parents, Teachers and Friends Association.

Mrs Bond said: "We would love for our community to come along and see all that Elm Park has to offer."

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“Something Different”

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Email: contact@fromevalleyvoice.co.uk

DO YOU HAVE A CHILD DUE TO START SCHOOL IN SEPTEMBER? If so, please let us show you around our wonderful school!

Open afternoons every Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday

Contact the school office on 01454 866 750 or email elmparkprimary@sgmail.org.uk to book an appointment

Reception Open Events Is your child due to start school next September?

We would love to welcome you to Elm Park Primary School.

Come along and enjoy a guided tour led by our Head Teacher and Reception Class Teacher. See our wonderful school and let us show off the amazing learning opportunities we provide.

We offer personalised tours every Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday from 4pm – 5pm.

‘Elm Park is a happy and friendly school.

Pupils love learning because teachers make it fun.

The Early Years is a welcoming and interesting place for children to learn.

Staff care deeply about their pupils and are sensitive to their needs.

Leaders and teachers share a passion for igniting pupils’ enthusiasm and nurturing talents.’

OfSTED November 2019

Please contact us by phone 01454866750 or email elmparkprimary@sgmail.org.uk to book a place for one of our open afternoons or to join us at our open morning.

If you are unable to make the days/times above, please contact us and we will find an alternative time to show you around.

fromevalleyvoice

16

December, 2021

n STROUD AUCTIONS THE highest prices at Stroud Auctions' November sale may have been for classic cars and motorbikes, but the biggest surprise was this set of spice jars.

The TG Green Cornishware blue and white striped jars sold for £1,580 due to a rare misspelling on one jar, which said ‘carroway’ rather than the usual spelling of caraway, the seeds used for flavouring and oil.

Originally introduced in the 1920s and manufactured in Derbyshire, using clay from Cornwall, original vintage Cornishware is highly collectible, and pieces with rare lettering demand particularly high prices.

The name is said to come from an employee's remark that the blue in the kitchenware reminded him of the sea and sky in Cornwall.

The highest selling of the 1,453 lots in the auction was a BMW R51/3 motorbike, the best example the auctioneer had ever seen, which went on to make over £16,000.

Also extremely popular with our buyers was a 1938 Austin Seven Ruby car, registration number EAF 904, which was a real favourite of the auctioneers due to

Variety is the spice of life

A misspelling meant collectors battled for these spice jars being in great drivable condition, and having also spent a few weeks parked in our saleroom! It sold for £7,840.

If you have a motorbike, car or other vehicle you are thinking of selling then our auctioneer Mark Rozelaar would be happy to have a chat about it: the commission for selling in our March auction is currently reduced to 5%.

Stroud Auctions staff are now busy finalising the catalogue for our auction on December 1, 2 and 3, which includes jewellery,

watches and the ever-popular fine wines and spirits section – all ideal as unique Christmas gifts.

Viewing day on Tuesday November 30 is open to all, so if you would like to come along for a browse, just call in anytime between 10am and 6pm.

The Christmas sale features over 1,000 lots of jewellery alone, plus silver, watches, coins, bijouterie and fine wines and spirits. The catalogue will be available online from a week before the auction date.

Entries are still being invited for Stroud Auctions’ February auction – this includes medals and militaria, guns and weapons, cameras, binoculars and scientific instruments, sporting goods, taxidermy, ceramics and glass.

If you have anything you may wish to consign please contact us, call in to our saleroom on any Friday between 9am and 4pm, or send images to valuations@ stroudauctions.co.uk.

Valuations are completely free and without obligation.

STROUD AUCTION ROOMS Free valuations every Friday 9am-4pm at our saleroom, free home visits or email valuations@stroudauctions.co.uk

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Email: contact@fromevalleyvoice.co.uk

fromevalleyvoice

December, 2021

17

n NEWS FROM THE METRO MAYOR

Thanks to all who will be working over Christmas IT’S beginning to look a lot like Christmas, everywhere I go! My office has turned into a winter wonderland full of drawings of reindeer, holly and elves from talented local children entering my Christmas card competition.

There is a definite chill in the air. In our local shopping streets beautiful store window displays tempt us in, while carols bring much-needed cheer. And I keep thinking, as I do every single year, I really must get a move on with my Christmas shopping!

Christmas is a truly magical time for many.

As a child I remember being so excited to find out what Father Christmas had left for me and my brother and sisters. My best ever present was when I was nearly four and got a red ride-on Tri-ang Puff Puff train. I had seen it in a shop window and instantly fell in love. But I also knew it was too big an ask, as it was far too expensive, and I was told that it wouldn’t become mine. So when it was there under the tree on Christmas day it was the most exciting day of my life and it still is!

When I was a bit older it remained trains

for me! Christmas was a waiting game to see what extra bits I might get for my Hornby train set. I loved the Brunswick green Great Western Railway engines and their chocolate and cream coaches. Sometimes I’d get some track and points in my stocking or tiny model passengers for the station and trackside. As you can tell, I was super keen on great public transport systems even back then!

Nowadays it’s my working cocker spaniel Angel that makes my Christmas special. She loves long walks, her toy pheasant, and best of all, sausages! Boxing Day is obviously a big deal too – I often go to Ashton Gate with my fellow Bristol City fans, and winning hopefully means vital bragging rights over my Rovers mates!

For some, Christmas doesn’t mean time off and I’d like to thank our amazing NHS staff, our firefighters and police, those working in retail at their busiest time of the year, and our posties who sort and deliver all the mail. A sincere thank you goes to everyone who works over Christmas!

A special Christmas wish also goes to those

Got News? Call Richard 0n 01454 800 120

Metro Mayor

Dan Norris

writes for the Voice

who are spending the holiday alone – perhaps because of fate or circumstance, or maybe because they have lost a cherished partner. If this is you, you will be particularly in my thoughts.

It’s also a time for New Year’s resolutions, but as I’ve got the best job ever, mine is simple.

In 2022 I want to really put the brilliant West of England even more firmly on the national and global map and ensure our region thrives.

So from Angel and me, we wish you and your family the happiest of Christmases, and a peaceful, healthy and prosperous New Year. See you in 2022.

Email: contact@fromevalleyvoice.co.uk

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fromevalleyvoice

December, 2021

19

Celebrating the Frome Valley Voice 100th edition This issue of the Frome Valley Voice is our 100th edition. Here we take a look back at some of the front pages, stories and pictures we have brought you since our launch in July 2013.

FREE EVERY MON TH for Winterbo urne, Frampton Cott erell, Coalpit Heat h, Iron

fromevalleyvoice Acton & Winterbo urne

March 2014 , Issu

e9

www.from

evalleyvoice

Letters,

16

ced used in advan ing A PROCESS ft manufactur passenger aircraed for the has been adopt replacement the building of h Road. bridge in Churc ional building Instead of tradit e will be one bridg materials, the

Gospel hall Rentokil sitefor ?

made the UK to be of the first in glass and carbon of a from layers together with fibres bound tough resin. cts used are The produ e frost, extrem resistant to and de-icing salts s temperature

problems in that can cause ete bridges, so steel and concr any painting or re will not requi ng. waterproofi d on Page 6.

Continue ch Road More on Churs 4 and 5.

Page closure on

End lain Frampton cars Locals comp by being used Road is still

Page 28 Farewell to Frenchay hay ready as Frenc Southmead s Hospital close

Page 24-25 to sing g Get ready hon hymn singin 36 hour marat to go fundraiser ready

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Page 10 s win Basketball boy last

Double decker fun for viaduc t nurseries

Old Rentokil site after inspector to be developed steps in

Page 3 Bridge work on track Churc

al organ Frampton Festiv big day preparing for

Good news for Iron Acton Primary

also made histor Britain’s first-ev y by winning medal on snow. er Olympic She called Primary Schoointo Hambrook to be a pupil, l, where she used to the childr to show her medal en and staff.

Full story Page 7.

allowed on app eal

Page 3 Festival planning steps up isers

Page 2

Page 27

e.co.uk

What’s on ,

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No shut case

Plans for hall Court Road and houses on site.

Winter Game s Last mont in Sochi.

Voice highli h’s Frome Valley ghted Jenny success in her ’s she prepared chosen sport as for her Olym challenge. pic Not only Ridings Highdid the former a well deser School pupil earn ved medal but she

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Acton & Winterb ourne Down

November 2014

, Issue 11

May 2014

Direct servic e Hospital annouto Southmead nced.

JUST a mont had heard of h ago, few people snowboarde Jones. r Jenny Now she appearing onis getting used to radio, being television and recognised street and signin in the after her Olym g autographs pic winning perfor bronze medalmance in the

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Page 20 | What’ s on, Page

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Down & Winterbourne Heath, Iron Acton Cotterell, Coalpit ourne, Frampton terb Win for TH FREE EVERY MON

h Road works to finish at the end of Novem ber

Voice Edito r Luke Hall. Richard Drew (centre), Details, page with the Prime 14 Minister

Spotlight on

solar farms as

AS one plan for a solar farm the Frome Valley is reject in yet another is waiting for ed, decision. a The area alread y has Says Farm gener ating electr icity near Coalpit Heath, while power shoul d Grange Farm start to flow from , Winterbour ne, in

and local Cons

Page 5 Calling it a day at the WIA Federation head retires after 20 years.

Page 9 Advent artists needed Calend

ervative cand

idate

project is rej

November.

Now 37 acres at Hammond Court Farm ,a to Grange Farmneighbouring site , could house even more solar panel s.

But the prosp ect of thousands of them cover fields in Latter ing idge, Iron was halted by concerned Acton,

ected

ar trail for in Winterbourn Christmas planned e.

councillors.

They said top quality agricultural land, footp aths and nearby listed buildi ngs, including the Commonwe 1686 alth House, had to be protected.

Page 20 Call for MetroB to run through us Frome Valley Politicians want Coalpit Heath stops Page 37

fromevalleyvoice fromevalleyvoice fromevalleyvoice Playbus and alpacas headi popular cafe. ng to

Page 28

e ber, 2016 Issu

38

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targets Developer Farm again s d n la d o Wo

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Federation given forma warning overl finances

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agreed to tackle Action plan shortfall predicted £1m PAGE 6 Telephone boxes n disconnectio PAGE 7

Travellers site proposed for Frampton Cotterell

il leads objec

Parish counc PAGE 11

ls and ure on schoo more press ries. doctor's surgesed homes could s The propo the 1,500 home be on top of green belt land in for al earmarked as part of region Coalpit Heathfuture housing in for proposals Bristol area. the greater

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line End of thedue for

and site in 2013, homes on the likely to put are s could be built local people ance to the new 215 new home it Heath, three up fierce resist Coalp ation on fields in proposals. s the a larger applic years after tt Homes claim more Barre ds was rejected. e gives much s says it inten for use new schem Barrett Home sal to South open space tors of the site to propo unity, but objec for the to submit a by the comm hire Council 400 extra cars Gloucesters which it is calling say it will mean sted roads and nt, developme conge campaign on already Park. A big Blackberry for nearly 400 stopped plans

Page 39

tions

bridge d from new Horses banne over safety fears PAGE 21

On the upic start winning Frampton Athlet PAGE 44

, Page 3

Full story

Issue 39 N & WINTERBOURN E DOWN

HEATH, IRON ACTO

New homes opposed

Parish counc il Winterbourne objects to Down plans PAGE 10

AN official notice to impro finances has ve been by a Governmen issued t body to the Ridings’ Federation of Academies amid the crisis affecting the organisatio n runs Winte rbourne and which Yate internationa l academies.

The Educa Agency said tion Funding it of the histor realised the “scale ic

by Claire Emerchallenges” faced the federation y, chairwoman of took up her trust, when she post in Septe mber.

But Mike Pettif er, director the Academies of financial mana Schools Group and Maintained and governancegement, control said in a letter within the agency, that althou It reflects the at the trust. recognised gh he the position of weak financial in that short progress made the time, his conce continued concetrust and regarding the current financirns rns around governance position of al and the trust remai financial mana oversight of ned.

Mr Pettifer gement by board.” letter and its said: “This the annex serve a written notice as Various deleg ated powers to improve relating to finance have been removed from the federation as a

Neigh way

ERELL, COALPIT

turmoil

A unique ‘knitivity’

Wollen Christ mas scene off Africa to PAGE 13

The life scie

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School holds Science festiva l PAGE 15

20mph zon planned fores Winterbour ne Schoo

consequenc e and progr ess will be monitored by the agenc y.

The notice trustees decid came as the sponsor for ed to pursue a new the light of a poten academies in the deficit by the tial £1 million end academic year. of the current Full coverage at Winterbour of the crisis ne Internation Academy, pages al 3-5.

l safety priorit y for council PAGE 20

Goals galore for Frampton

fromevalleyvoice fromevalleyvoice www.fromeva

mes.co.uk Email: info@aj-ho 01454 252 140 mes.co.uk , BS36 1JX - Tel: il: info@aj-ho , Winterbourne 252 140 Ema - Tel: 01454

4 Flaxpits Lane

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FREE EVERY MON

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ERELL, COALPIT

Eva Rogers has lost her dedicated teaching assistant due to funding cuts

April, 2019 Issue 68 HEATH, IRON ACTO N & WINTERBOUR NE DOWN

April, 2020

Row as Ofsted is says schoole’ ‘inadequat endent

Pete's mile

ston

Mum’s lega

A MUM has joined a paren legal challe ts’ nge to fundi ng she believes will harm her cuts daughter’s future Laura Roger . s, from Winterbour ne Down, is a

l battle for

passionate member of the parent group SEND Emergency Glos, which South is trying to launch a judicial review of funding special needs for education in and disabilities the area.

Emma Steele (right) and fellow cyclis Helen Jacks t on are riding 400 miles in memo ry of Emma’s friend’s baby daughter

Eva

Laura, who six-year-old is 38, is Mum to Eva, and her Huey, 2. brother When she pregnant withwas 36 weeks Continued Eva, Laura was on page 4

Two car repair been destro businesses have yed Winterbourne. in a blaze in PAGES 6&7

Renovation underway

A £1.7 millio n project to renovate Winte Medieval Barn rbourne is underway PAGE 12

Dog poo bag

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nes Dog owners found walkin g their pets witho poo bag face ut carrying a a new £100 fine.

PAGE 28

4 Flaxpits Lane , Winterbourne 4 Flaxpits Lan , BS36 1JX - Tel: e, Winterbourn 01454 252 140 e, BS36 1JX Email: info@aj-ho - Tel: 01454 mes.co.uk 252 140 Em ail: info@a j-homes.co. uk

of an indep THE owners ed inadequate school declar lodged a the

by Ofsted have laint against formal comp inspectors.

PAGES 12-13

rks Road wobetwe en Coalpit

eers building YOUNG engin racing car found st an electric racing again themselves it before time to finish s restrictions coronaviru l. schoo shut their 9 Full story: Page

The main road l is set to be Heath and Bristoyear. resurfaced this PAGE 7

is on hold Normal life on hold as toughs affect has been put aviru NORMAL life in place to fight coron my. put unity and econo restrictions t of the comm ls to pubs and churches, every aspec of and schoo From shops part of the everyday fabric ed events are places which closed, while long-plann dar are calen been yearly life have of the area’s that form partcancelled. or postponed

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7

June, 2018

Issue 60

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fromevalleyvoice

20

December, 2021

n 100TH EDITION SPECIAL

100 not out – the Frome Valley Voice hits a century of issues IT has taken eight years and a lot of hard work, but this month we are celebrating the 100th edition of Frome Valley Voice.

Normally we don’t tend to blow our own trumpet, but we are incredibly proud of how the paper has grown and become a part of the local community since 2013, and we thought you might indulge us with a look back at our journey to this landmark.

In the beginning…..

July 2013 saw the debut of Frome Valley Voice. Local people got the first taste of what makes the Voice stand out – hyperlocal news, provided by experienced journalists, as well as features and the latest from community groups.

In the first edition, the front page told of financial woes at St Peter’s Church, and how St Michael’s School was celebrating its 200th birthday with a flypast from the Red Arrows and a message from a very special former pupil – Harry Potter

author JK Rowling.

Inside we reported on the Star pub closing, and the re-birth of the Frampton Festival.

Breaking the news

The Voice was there to record the arrival of pupils at the new Watermore Primary School in 2020 ONE thing about Frome Valley Voice – it’s not an ‘ad mag’. We’ve always invested time, effort and money into our journalism. As traditional daily papers have gone into decline and retreat, we are proud to keep shining a spotlight on events and holding organisations in our local area to account.

Education has always featured in our news pages. We led the way in our coverage of the turmoil at Winterbourne Academy, from poor Ofsted reports to teacher strikes to the departures of principals and chief executives in 2015 and 2016, before the school's fortunes were revived with the arrival of new leadership.

It wasn’t all bad school news: we have been delighted to report on a lot of glowing reports and fun activities for our primary schools, including the big move that united Watermore Primary School teachers and pupils on one site at last.

Bulldozers move in at Woodland Farm in 2019

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Developments have also been a mainstay, with Woodlands Farm in Coalpit Heath being the focus of several front pages as plans for houses were turned down and then approved on appeal.

What would children's author Dick King-Smith, whose time on the farm inspired so many of his best-selling stories, have made of it all?

Coalpit Heath could yet be the site of more housing if plans for homes on green fields are revived in the next master plan for the area.

Frome Valley Voice has reported on the increased use of food banks in the area and its pages have been home for a robust discussion about the provision (or lack of it) of services for young people.

We revealed plans for the South Gloucestershire Show in Henfield, and took a lot of interest in the new space age bridge on Church Road in Frampton Cotterell.

Post Offices have closed, speed limits have been changed, roads shut, charity fund-raising has been accomplished by the brave (or possibly foolhardy).

Big or small, we would like to think we’ve covered the stories that matter to you.

This sporting life

In March 2014, fresh from the Sochi Winter Olympics, Jenny Jones went back to her primary school in Hambrook to show off her medal.

In October 2014 we were ready, camera in hand as the Tour of Britain cycling race swept through Iron Acton, Frampton Cotterell and Winterbourne.

Somewhere in the blur of riders was Sir Bradley Wiggins…

Normally though we provide a digest of local sport, from netball to cricket, football and rugby. None of this would be possible without our club correspondents who let us know about sporting triumphs – and occasional on-field disasters.

Ridings FC in action during a recent match at Beesmoor playing fields in Frampton Cotterell

Part of the community

Winter Olympian Jenny Jones returned to her old school to show off her gold medal in 2014 SPORT plays a big part in life here, and Frome Valley Voice has always reflected this, whether it’s elite athletes or third team cricketers.

The mini railway at Bridge House in Frampton Cotterell

Email: contact@fromevalleyvoice.co.uk

fromevalleyvoice

December, 2021 FROME Valley Voice is part of the local community, and we are always keen to hear what the community has to say. It may not be headline news, but there is always a place for groups like our local WIs, Floral Friends of Frampton and the Winterbourne and Frome Valley Environmental Group on our pages.

Features

WE like to look at the lighter side of life in the Frome Valley Voice, and in 2019 we told the strange story of how a painted pebble left in the village by a member of the Frampton Cotterell Rocks Facebook group made its way all the way to the Sahara desert.

And when someone in our community does something extraordinary, we like to tell readers about it – be it young singer Alfie Haile's meetings with stars including Lauryn Hill and Tyson Fury or Toby Fletcher's pledge to run 1km for every point the Bristol Bears concede this season to raise money for St Peter's Hospice: last weekend alone they gave him an extra 68km to run!

21

In the pandemic hugging a tr , ee didn’t seem that odd

The pandemic and the future ge; Proper villa n to p Fram ke Cotterell ta ok on Hambro ly nd ie fr a in

Gordon Blight, the Flag Man of Winterbourne, was one of our earliest subjects WE are partial to a good feature in Frome Valley Voice, something that’s not a news headline, but interesting all the same.

Perhaps one of our favourites was in just our second edition – the Flag Man of Winterbourne – Gordon Blight, the man who kept scores of flags to use on the flagpoles opposite the Co-op store when marking significant events.

We also quite enjoyed being invited to Downing Street in 2014, and a subsequent trip to see the MP at the time, Steve Webb, in his ministerial office in Whitehall.

A slightly different trip was to the Malvern Spring Show to see novice garden designer Gary Bristol scoop an award thanks to his creation inspired by the local hatting industry.

Fun, games and fame

The rock from Frampton which travelled to Africa

Copies of the Frome Valley Voice on their way to be delivered to homes COVID-19 disrupted everyone’s lives and Frome Valley Voice had to stop printing for two months last year as the lockdown made producing the paper impossible.

However, our commitment to our community continued and we concentrated our efforts on our website and social media channels to make sure people continued to get important news, especially about how to get and offer help during lockdown.

Covid taught us never to take the future for granted, but Frome Valley Voice is committed to its core values – being an essential community hub for the area.

Who knows what the next 100 months will bring? Whatever it is, we will be there to report it.

Got News? Call Richard 0n 01454 800 120

The Voice captured th e arrival of th e new Church Road bridg e in Frampto n Cotterell in 2014

Singer Alfie Haile with Tyson Fury

Email: contact@fromevalleyvoice.co.uk

fromevalleyvoice

22

December, 2021

n LOCAL MP

New funding will make a big difference to our schools AS a local father to three young children, I know how important it that local schools receive the support and funding they need to provide our children with the best possible standard of education.

I am absolutely determined that children in our community should receive a high-quality education. That is why I am delighted that the Government have announced substantial increases in school funding for the coming years.

For this current academic year, core school funding has already been increased by £2.2 billion.

At the Government’s Spending Review last month, the Chancellor Rishi Sunak confirmed an

additional £4.7 billion is going to be delivered per year by 2024-25.

This announcement is broadly equivalent to an increase of over £1,500 per pupil compared with where we were in 2019-20.

Next year, our local schools will see a positive change in their total funding from this current academic year, with provisional figures showing that Watermore Primary School’s funding increasing by 9.92%, Marlwood School increasing by 8.49%, Brimsham Green increasing by 4.44%, St Mary's Primary School in Thornbury increasing by 4.53%.

These are just a few examples of the enormous difference which this funding boost will have for

children in our area.

But education goes much wider than this, and the 2021 Spending Review announced that £2.6bn is being made available for school places for children with special educational needs and disabilities. This more than triples the current capital funding levels to over £900m by 2024-25.

In some parts of South Gloucestershire, we also know the difficulties that some of our small and remote schools can face, and so it is welcome news that their funding is also being boosted by £53 million in 2022-23.

The Government made increasing school funding in areas such as ours a key pledge at the

Luke Hall MP writes for Frome Valley Voice

General Election in 2019, and so I am delighted that has translated into action.

As we recover from the COVID-19 pandemic, it is now more important than ever that we get school funding right. We are making good progress, and I look forward to continuing the fight to make sure that our community remains one of the best anywhere in country to live, work and raise a family.

New nature group for Frampton Cotterell

A giant pumpkin from the Iron Acton trail

Pumpkin trail is a hit A PUMPKIN trail around Iron Acton kept families entertained at Halloween.

The event was organised by the Friends of Iron Acton Primary School and included a giant pumpkin at the start.

The school is now looking towards its Christmas celebrations, with plans to hold a live Nativity service at St James’ Church in Iron Acton after having to film last year's event and share it online.

Executive head teacher Mike Riches said: "We are excited to (hopefully) be able to hold this in person, with families of children in our new Reception class, as well as Year 1 and 2, able to watch the service live.

"Another highlight of our school year is our annual Christingle service, which helps us to celebrate the arrival of Christmas.

"Members of St James’ Church visit school to help the children make their very own Christingle using an orange, red tape, a candle, cocktail sticks and sweets. We then light them and sing Away in a Manger and hear about the significance of the Christingle at Christmastime."

The school's Friends are also organising a Christmas fair in the Parish Hall on December 4, which will raise funds for both the school and church and is set to include carols from the children singing alongside the village choir.

To advertise, contact Richard on 01454 800 120

A kingfisher on the River Frome at Frampton Cotterell. Photo David Hanks A NEW group has been set up to help people in Frampton Cotterell connect with nature and improve the environment for wildlife.

The Frampton Cotterell Nature group held its first meeting in November, and is planning a programme of activities including walks, wildlife surveys and practical conservation work.

It has an active Facebook group, which can be found by searching for Frampton Cotterell Nature, were members share pictures and sightings of local wildlife.

David Hanks, who set up the group, said, “I wanted to get more people involved in recording and looking after nature locally.

"There’s some amazing wildlife in Frampton Cotterell but many species have declined and are now threatened.

"We need to do everything we can to protect and improve habitats so that nature can thrive."

Anyone interested can join the Facebook group or email framptoncotterellnature@gmail.com for more information

Email: contact@fromevalleyvoice.co.uk

fromevalleyvoice

December, 2021

23

n NEWS

Roundabouts revamp goes on hold PLANS to spend £30 million on changes to five roundabouts on the Avon Ring Road have been put on ice for at least a year.

South Gloucestershire Council says it is postponing a bid for government money for the scheme on the A4174, which includes road-widening, extra lanes and turning three more junctions into 'throughabouts', where onward ring road traffic can pass straight through.

The decision to put the scheme on hold was made in early November after 84 per cent of the 880 respondents to a 12-week public consultation disapproved of the idea.

It was made just a week after the reopening of Wraxall Road junction as a traffic lightcontrolled throughabout, where through traffic uses three lanes in each direction to drive through the middle of the junction, while vehicles making turns use a roundabout.

Residents have already branded the Wraxall Road junction, revamped at a cost of £6.9 million, “dangerous” and a “huge waste of money”.

An accident involving three vehicles, which saw two people taken to hospital, blocked the new junction two weeks after it opened, although it is not clear whether the design played any role in the crash.

The council had hoped the new junction would serve as a template for others on a five-mile stretch between the Lyde Green and Kingsfield roundabouts, to help tackle congestion and stop drivers using nearby

An aerial view of the new Wraxall Road roundabout near Kingswood,which is now open neighbourhood roads as rat-runs. Three roundabouts were earmarked to become 'throughabouts': Siston Hill near Mangotsfield, Deanery Road near Warmley and Kingsfield, at Longwell Green.

Another two – Lyde Green roundabout, and the Rosary roundabout, by Emersons Green shopping centre – would have extra lanes added.

More traffic lights and entry lanes would have been installed and land at the edges of the ring road developed to provide the extra space.

But no dedicated bus lanes were proposed and the plans immediately came under fire from Labour Metro Mayor Dan Norris and Green local politicians who said it could end up generating more traffic.

The council said on November 2 that it had listened to residents’ feedback and would not be submitting its bid to Whitehall for the bigger project until at least late 2022.

It said people wanted more time to become familiar with the

n LETTER New voting ID plans are unfair WHATEVER the benefits of the government's plan to spend £120 million a decade on demanding ID at polling stations, the list of forms of ID that are allowed should be as broad as possible. Ministers recently revealed the unfairness of their plans - older people's railcards will be accepted, but younger people's railcards won't be. Veterans' ID cards will be accepted but university ID cards won't be.

When it comes to who can vote and who can’t, we must not have a system where the list of acceptable ID cards looks based on how the government thinks the holders of those cards might vote.

The Electoral Reform Society has been calling for the government to pause and rethink this bill. I can’t help but agree with them.

new junction, which would now be evaluated, and there were also concerns about the impact and disruption caused by three years of roadworks.

Cabinet member Steve Reade said: “We would like to thank all those who took part in our consultation and for their detailed feedback on this project.

“You have spoken and we have listened. We will not be submitting a funding bid at this time, but we will feed the

comments received back into the proposals.

“Whilst pleased with the first few days’ operation of the new Wraxall Road throughabout scheme, we recognise it’s quite a big change for the area and people need time to become familiar with it. We will continue to monitor it to inform the wider project. There remains a strong case both economically and environmentally for junction improvements along the A4174.

“It is anticipated that, with no intervention, the congestion along the ring road and on adjacent roads will worsen in the years to come due to planned local growth."

Cllr Reade insisted that the paused scheme would "play a part in delivering" the council's climate emergency goals of reducing carbon emissions and encouraging more people to use sustainable transport options.

By Adam Postans, Local Democracy Reporting Service

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Email: contact@fromevalleyvoice.co.uk

fromevalleyvoice

24

December, 2021

n THOUGHT FOR THE MONTH

Advent means more than a chocolate each day WE are almost there, into the last month, and no doubt you have started on your chocolate advent calendars. You may have all your shopping done already and your decorations may be up.

We all make a fuss at Christmas, as for so many of us Christmas is a very special time of the year. We put a lot of effort into getting everything right - the presents, the food, those we invite and the diary around various work or family commitments.

We are so busy and rushed that by the time the day arrives, we can often be left feeling exhausted. Let's be honest, we have been in a prolonged period of relative darkness and we may be left feeling pretty fragile. Life has been hard for most people over the past couple of years.

Perhaps we are not quite at the point where covid is a memory, as we still very much appear to be learning to live with it for the longer term, but we really need a good Christmas this year, a time of being together and celebrating all that is good.

As I write, we are a while away from the time to celebrate, as it is not Christmas yet, but we are in the season of advent!

A season that means so much more than a tiny chocolate treat each morning, a season when we prepare ourselves to welcome Christ into our hearts.

On that first Christmas, Christ entered the world in an equally dark and troubled time in Israel.

He was born among an oppressed people, a people who knew fear, as it was a daily

experience, and who did not know what would happen to them. Into that fear, in a very quiet and understated way, came Jesus, who comes as light in the darkness.

We are in that period where much of the day is dark and we may feel we are in a period of fear and uncertainty.

However, Christmas is coming, just as Christ did, to dispel that darkness, bringing light and life to what would otherwise be a dark and dismal time.

So, as you prepare, however you will, for Christmas this year, I invite you to make time in the chaos to reflect on what Christ's mission to the world is: Hope, Peace, Love and Joy. To feel these things for yourself, as a gift from God to humanity, and to pass them on

Rev David Jones, Curate, Fromeside Benefice in your lives.

May God the Son lighten your darkness, bringing you hope, peace, love and joy this advent and Christmastime and always.

NEWS - Email us at: contact@fromevalleyvoice.co.uk

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Email: contact@fromevalleyvoice.co.uk

fromevalleyvoice

December, 2021

25

n COMMUNITY NEWS Floral Friends: New displays and donations NOW autumn is here and the nights are drawing in, Floral Friends of Frampton hope to raise your spirits with the new seasonal displays around the village.

We are currently aiming to increase the sustainability of our planting by using perennials to create a permanent structure, with pockets of seasonal flowers for colour. Many of our plants are chosen to attract bees and other pollinators and we use peat-free compost whenever possible.

Floral Friends would like to say a big thankyou to Waitrose, who have kindly donated £333 as part of their community matters project.

Although Green Tokens have not been issued in stores since the start of the pandemic, Waitrose have still been selecting local groups for funding, and Floral Friends are delighted to have benefited this time around.

Their donation will be used to help us to maintain our floral displays around the village.

Scarecrow Miss Flora B Lines (made by a Floral Friends volunteer) could be found outside the Church during half term week, as part of the village scarecrow trail. We hope everybody enjoyed finding all the scarecrows and voting for

The new winter bedding

The donation from Waitrose

their favourite.

We know that many people enjoy seeing the planting around the village and that it has helped in the recent dark times to brighten the days and add interest to those daily walks!

However, we are a voluntary group and, due to the pandemic, have not been able to hold our usual fundraising activities.

Until we can safely resume these we really would appreciate any donations to help us to keep going and fill the village with flowers. If you would like to help (no matter how small – every penny really does help) you can donate online: HSBC account name: Floral Friends of

Frampton Sort Code: 40-47-34 Account number: 41555316 If you would prefer to donate by cash or cheque, please email floralfriendsofframpton@ gmail.com for details.

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

If you would like to help there are various ways in which you can do so, from a few minutes regularly to maintain the planters to a couple of hours once or twice a year in late spring and autumn to help replenish the plants in the planters.

Frampton Cotterell WI

Coalpit Heath WI

TOWARDS the end of October we held a crafts and gifts evening, with stall holders selling craft items, scarves and bags and elegant silver jewellery - a perfect opportunity to get some early Christmas shopping in and to do some long overdue socialising over tea and cake!

At our AGM on November 23 our Frampton Cotterell WI craft evening president, Rosey Simpkins, was due to stand down after seven years dedicated and loyal service, however we are delighted to know that she will continue to serve and advise on our committee.

Other diary dates for the 2021-2022 year are: December 6 - Christmas bingo and raffle at Crossbow House January 25 - Emma Britton (ex-Radio Bristol), From Radio Shows to Funerals and Weddings February 1 - New Year's meal out at the White Horse at Hambrook February 22 - Dogs for medical detection March 22 - Welcome back to Paul Green (Green Leaves Nursery) - plant care and sale.

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

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.

There is a charge of £2.50 for the evening and any new members can also join by paying a membership fee.

In the meantime, if you’re interested in joining us please let us know and get in touch via our Facebook page.

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

GERTRUDE the Green Lady, our entry to the village scarecrow competition, sat on the bench outside St Saviour’s church throughout half term.

She was made from items scavenged from garages, including an old cycle top, some material, hessian, gardening items and old decorations. Several people said they enjoyed Gertrude the scarecrow sitting next to her and taking selfies.

In addition, the waterfall of poppies was re-installed at St Saviour’s church in time for Remembrance Day. It looked stunning in the sunshine, and our thanks go to the members who helped with this.

We now have some extra flasks for hot water, so are able to provide a self-service tea and coffee area. It was tested out during our November AGM very successfully. Members are still encouraged to bring their own mugs.

At the AGM the committee were re-elected and thanked for their efforts at keeping members in touch, especially while we weren’t able to meet up.

December has two events. We have an American supper, Christmas raffle and demonstration during the meeting on December 1, then a carol service at St Saviour’s church on the 7th, with refreshments afterwards. All are welcome.

A full programme of events has been planned for next year and members will receive their new copy soon.

Our meetings are on the first Wednesday of each month, at 7.45pm for an 8pm start. If you feel you would like to join us, please come along - you would be most welcome.

Updates and further information can be found on our Facebook page.

Got News? Call Richard 0n 01454 800 120

Caroline Johnston

Email: contact@fromevalleyvoice.co.uk

fromevalleyvoice

26

December, 2021

n RECIPE OF THE MONTH

An extra Christmas treat “GOD bless us everyone.” This is what Tiny Tim says at the end of A Christmas Carol, as they all tuck into their Christmas goose.

I hope that as we near another Christmas we may all be blessed and have a wonderful time celebrating with family and friends.

Just in case you want a little extra treat on the food front, I’ve given you a quick and easy recipe for some super German almond biscuits.

These go beautifully with a cup of coffee and are suitable for those who are gluten intolerant.

And just in case you didn’t yet get round to making your Christmas cake yet, fear not! Delia Smith can save the day, with a fantastic Christmas cake recipe made with luxury mincemeat that can be made as late as Christmas Eve. Last year Christmas was a pretty

sorry affair, with lots of people not able to socialise and have a good time with all those they loved. So, whatever it is that you are doing for Christmas this year may I wish you a wonderful time.

Zimtsterne - Christmas Almond & Cinnamon Stars This is a German recipe given to me by my great friend, Charlotte. A few wrapped in a cellophane bag or cookie jar with Christmas ribbon makes a lovely festive gift.

Makes about 25 depending on the size of the cutter Ingredients: Unpeeled whole almonds – 225g (or ground almonds if not) Egg whites – 1 ½ (45mls) Icing sugar – 100g Plain flour-about 1 ½ tbsps Cinnamon – ½ tsp

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Preheated oven 140 C, 130 C fan assisted, Gas Mark 1 Here’s what you do: Grind the whole almonds in a food processor until they are finely ground.

Using a fairly large bowl, whisk the egg whites until stiff.

Gradually mix the sieved icing sugar into the egg whites.

Now put aside 2 tablespoons of this mixture in a separate bowl.

Mix the cinnamon into the rest of the egg white and sugar mixture.

Now mix in the almonds gradually to form a dough. The dough should be firm and not too sticky – add a little plain flour gradually until the dough is firm enough to roll.

Dredge the work surface with plenty of icing sugar and roll out the dough to approx. 5cm thickness (about the depth of 2x£1 coins on top of each other.) the thinner the biscuit the crispier it will be.

Line a baking tray with nonstick baking parchment paper Stamp out your biscuits using a star shaped cutter – dipping the cutter in icing sugar intermittently to prevent the dough sticking – and lay them on the baking trays Now take the reserved egg white and icing sugar mixture and brush a little over each of the biscuits

Bake for approx 20-30mins until they are a pale golden brown with a sugar crust on top. They should sound hollow when tapped on the bottom, but remember they will harden slightly as they cool, so don’t overcook.

Leave on the baking tray for a couple of mins and then peel gentle off the parchment and leave to cool completely on a wire cooling tray Cook’s Tips: These biscuits will keep well for several days in an airtight tin (if given the chance!)

They also freeze well, either the dough or the baked biscuits.

n COMMUNITY NEWS New start for flower club

THERE is a new name, new venue and new meeting times for the former Winterbourne and District Flower Arranging Society.

We are now known as Winterbourne Flower Club, and we will meet at WADCA in Watleys End Road, Winterbourne on the second Monday of the month from 2pm to 4pm.

We have hands-on meetings, where you bring your own containers and plant materials to make a design to a given theme.

Our December design will be “An Alternative Christmas Tree”.

Come and visit us to see what we are all about.

A warm welcome awaits you.

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fromevalleyvoice

December, 2021

27

n NEWS

Cancelled cabin threatened to sink dream cruise

A DISABILITY campaigner and her family were left facing a heartbreaking decision when a cruise operator cancelled her accessible cabin.

Georgina Moore, who grew up in Frampton Cotterell, was booked on to the New Year cruise with her family.

But she was abruptly told in November that liner operator P&O could no longer provide an accessible cabin.

Georgina, who now lives independently in Chipping Sodbury, supported by carers, was planning a five-day trip around Western Europe with other members of her family including her parents.

The cancellation of her cabin left the others in her party facing a dilemma of whether or not to go without her.

Georgina, who has a severe physical disability, hit the headlines in 2019 when she won the BBC South West Unsung Hero Award for setting up The GEM Boccia Club in Yate.

The cruise was to have been her first holiday in two years as she has been isolating because of her disability. It was originally scheduled for 2020 but was postponed because of the pandemic.

Georgina said: "There were eight of us booked to go and due to my severe physical disability I was booked into an accessible cabin with my carer.

“This year we found out they had switched the ship we

Georgina Moore, pictured with carer Tom Isaac, was told her accessible cabin was no longer available were going on, from Aurora to Ventura. All other details remained the same.

"Then my father was told by cruise.co.uk that P&O had informed them that just my cruise was cancelled. They were going to find out about the rest of our party but it seemed like it was just me and my carer.”

After talking to other customers on Facebook, Georgina discovered other people who had accessible cabins cancelled and were being asked to move to non-accessible cabins and use collapsible wheelchairs.

She said: "I had to bite my tongue because I have a bespoke powered wheelchair and cannot sit in anything else. I use a portable hoist to transfer. I need an accessible shower with a chair.

"My carer does all my personal care. This simply isn’t possible in a non accessible cabin, where you can barely fit one person in the bathroom.

"I don’t have the luxury of

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"It also made me very aware that not everyone who has an accessible cabin needs it – I’ve heard from people before who just want a bigger room.”

Georgina’s carer contacted P&O but was told that there were no other accessible cabins available and there was nothing they could do.

But after the Voice contacted P&O to ask about the situation, the company had a change of heart.

Georgina said: "We had a call

from P&O guest relations to say they had miraculously found me another accessible cabin on the cruise! Obviously we were over the moon but asked if they were moving my parents’ cabin too, as they were joined onto ours to help my carer, because using a manual hoist legally requires 2 people.

“In the end they can’t move them, but our cabin is directly above theirs, just 2 floors up.

“P&O said for the stress they caused they have given me £150 to spend on the ship. So I’ve decided to go ahead with it and I’ll get my Dad a few beers with that money, to help him get over the stress of climbing 2 flights of stairs every morning and night."

Georgina thanked her friend Sue Hughes, who contacted the Voice to ask for our help.

She said: "It is very obvious that this triggered the complete U-turn on a situation they initially said they could not do anything about."

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28

December, 2021

n MESSAGE FROM AVON & SOMERSET PCC

A year of remarkable effort and sacrifice AS we approach the end of another year, I want to reflect on the last seven months of being your PCC. It’s been a whirlwind and there are numerous achievements since being appointed that the team and I are proud of.

I’m lucky enough to have met with officers, staff, local people, community groups and organisations across Avon and Somerset, and have gained an understanding of their concerns and views around policing and crime in their area.

I will continue to meet with communities, MPs and councillors every Friday to ensure we are working in collaboration for our communities.

I’m also proud to be the PCC lead for economic and cyber crime, including fraud: one in ten people fall victim to fraud and it is because of such statistics I was

inspired to take on this role.

I will continue to work at a local, regional and national level to raise the profile of this lifedestroying crime, and get a grip of it to protect vulnerable people from harm.

Following a rigorous selection process, I’m also delighted to announce my preferred chief constable candidate – Sarah Crew. At the time of writing this column, I am waiting for the Police and Crime Panel hearing to take place on November 25, where I will seek confirmation of appointment of my preferred candidate.

At the start of this process, I said I was looking for a robust and innovative chief constable, who is able to inspire their workforce, and Sarah has a proven track record of strong and effective leadership. The police officers and staff in Avon and Somerset are

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dedicated and hard-working, and I believe that Sarah can enhance their considerable efforts and skills.

Moving on, I want to take a moment to reflect on the start of the year, which was a difficult time for all of us as we entered another lockdown. During this time – and still to this day – I was blown away by the remarkable efforts of local people and the sacrifices you made.

Unfortunately, as we enter the winter, coronavirus cases continue to increase and it is a stark reminder that the virus is still out there. Although the vast majority of the population are vaccinated and many are receiving their booster jab, please continue to exercise caution over the coming months.

Finally, I want to thank the police, NHS and other emergency and volunteer services who

With Police and Crime Commissioner Mark Shelford will be working over the festive season to ensure local people and communities are safe. It’s always a busy time of year for those who work in the emergency services, and their work does not go unrecognised.

I wish you all the best with your celebrations and may you have a safe, happy and healthy Christmas and New Year.

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fromevalleyvoice

December, 2021

29

n WHAT'S ON December 1 Leonie Evans 'Halloween' Special, Winterbourne Medieval Barn, 7.30pm – rearranged event. Singersongwriter and multi-instrumentalist Leonie Evans will be joined by musician Kai Carter, and by storyteller Corrine Harragin. The gig will be seated, cabaret style. Bar open from 7pm, music starts at 7.30pm. Free parking on-site. Tickets £10 online via the Barn website.

December 1 South Glos Mines Research Group, Miner’s Institute, Coalpit Heath, 7.30pm. Talk by Garry Atterton Bedminster Coal: Blood, Sweat & Tears. Non-members £2. For more information call 01454 883607 December 2 Tea and Tour, Winterbourne Medieval Barn, 2pm. Short talk about the history of the Medieval Barn, with a cup of tea, and then explore the recently renovated West Barn and the rest of the site.

Tickets £5.

December 2-5 Treefest Christmas tree festival at St Mary Redcliffe Church, Bristol, 10am5pm daily and 1pm-5pm Sunday.

Display of up to 100 decorated Christmas trees held in the Gothic splendour of St Mary Redcliffe Church to raise money for local charity.

December 3 Elm Park Christmas Fayre, 3.30pm, Elm Park Primary School, Nicholls Lane, Winterbourne. Organised by the newly-formed Parents, Teachers and Friends Association. Come along and see all that Elm Park has to offer.

December 3 Frampton Cotterell Primary School Christmas Market, Rectory Road, 5-7pm.

December 3 Carols around the Tree, Brockeridge Centre 6pm. All welcome.

December 4 Christmas Fabric Wreath Workshop, Winterbourne Medieval Barn, 10am.

All materials are provided. No sewing experience needed! Serving mulled wine and mince pies to really get in the festive mood. The workshop will be held in a warm downstairs room!

Cost £30. Book online.

December 4 Table top sale, Miners Coalpit Heath Village Hall, 1pm to 3pm.

December 4 Festive West Gallery Music, Winterbourne Medieval Barn, 3pm.

Hear the songs sung at Christmas 250 years ago, including well-known carols. Tickets £5. Dress warmly. Free parking on site.

December 6 1st Frampton Scout Group Carols in Beesmoor Road Field, 6-7pm.

All welcome. Bring a torch/lantern.

Refreshments available. Charity collection.

December 7 Talk: A Medieval Christmas, Winterbourne Medieval Barn, 7pm.

Ad Putter, Professor of Medieval English at Bristol University, shows what the old poem Sir Gawain and the Green Knight tells us about Christmas traditions in medieval times. Tickets £5 (in person or livestream). Free parking.

Refreshments available.

December 7 Coalpit Heath WI Carol Concert, St Saviour's church 7.30pm.

December 8 Frampton Cotterell Local History Society, Zion Church, 7.30pm.

Prof Ronald Hutton talks about

King Arthur. Visitors £4. For more information email secretary_fcdlhs@ yahoo.com December 9-11 Christmas Show: Our Favourite Songs, Winterbourne Musical Theatre, WADCA, 7.30pm (2.30pm on Saturday). Tickets £5, including mince pies. Call 01454 317408 for more details.

December 10 Pamper & Presents, Coalpit Heath Cricket Club, 7pm-10.30pm. Raising funds for Paul's Place. Tickets £5, book via Facebook or email lstowell@ paulsplace.org.uk.

December 11 Family Christmas Crafts, Winterbourne Medieval Barn, 10am and 1pm. Family festive crafts suitable for children under 12. Cost is £5 per family. Book in advance via Barn website.

December 12 Carols in the Barn, Winterbourne Medieval Barn, 3pm and 6pm.

Christmas sketches and readings, with well-known carols to join in.

Gates open at 2.15 pm or 5.15pm to enjoy mulled wine and mince pies before the carols, and listen to live music from the Bristol Waites.

Tickets £5 (child £1) include a cup of mulled wine (or juice) and mince pie.

Additional refreshments available to buy. No parking at the Barn or in Church Lane (except Blue Badge).

Please walk or cycle down Church Lane. ‘Park & Stride’ Parking at Winterbourne Academy for £1 per car.

December 16 South Gloucestershire Art Appreciation Society, Bradley Stoke Community School, 7pm. Ghastly Good Taste - the Highs and Lows of British Design, with Matthew Williams. All welcome – just turn up.

December 18 Christmas party, Miners Coalpit Heath Village Hall, 7.30pm to late.

Everyone welcome, tickets £3 each.

Free entry to members of the bar social club. Bring you own nibbles.

December 31 New Years Eve party, Miners Coalpit Heath Village Hall, 7.30pm to 12.30am. Tickets £7 per person, includes party favours.

REGULAR EVENTS 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.

New members are most welcome.

Call 01454 776753 for details.

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Winterbourne library news CHRISTMAS activities at Winterbourne Library include Stories around the Tree, at 3pm on Tuesday December 21.

There will also be a children’s craft activity at 10am on December 22, and families can collect free Christmas children’s craft bags to take away from December 4, while stocks last.

All children’s activities places need to be booked due to limited spaces – for more details, visit the library or email Winterbourne.library@ southglos.gov.uk.

Regular activities are: Rhymetime, Wednesdays, 9.30am-10am, most suitable for 0-18 months – limited spaces.

Storytime, Fridays, 9.30am-10am, most suitable for 18 months to four years – limited spaces.

Lego club 10am to 11am, every four weeks from December 11.

All children must be accompanied by adult.

Digital Champions are now available for one-to-one IT support: covid-safe slots bookable on a Friday between 10am and noon.

Everyone in the UK aged over 16 without covid symptoms is encouraged to have two rapid lateral flow tests each week. You can collect testing kits from the library during opening hours.

The most current and Christmas opening hours and service information is available online at www.southglos.gov.uk/librarychanges

Got News? Call Richard 0n 01454 800 120

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fromevalleyvoice

30

December, 2021

n SPORT

Good start for Frampton as rugby returns

FRAMPTON Cotterell RFC continues to have a great season as rugby returns from the covid pandemic.

The First team has lost just one game and won three, drawing one.

Skipper Larry Pullen says he is really happy with the start.

The second team, led by Sam Rumley, sits at the top of Glos South division 2 unbeaten - a great achievement considering they are a younger team.

Tim Mason's 3s are going from strength to strength while other teams struggle in Bristol, regularly fielding 25-30 players.

A fourth team is not out the question.

Club captains Mike Weaver and Mark Smith are over the moon with the players and support staff, particularly Helen Smith who has helped tremendously with providing food and bar staff for the players' enjoyment.

A great tackle by Cameron Smith in the Frampton 2s game against North Bristol.

The final 2019-20 season awards from pre-covid were presented at the players' curry night at the Frampton Balti.

Brandon Ball won the 1s

players' player award and Dan 'of Cornwall' Semple won the most improved player award.

A sponsors' day and explayers' lunch was held at club at

the end of October to thank all those who support Fram – there are too many to mention here.

Mike Weaver

Cup run shows Yate Town's potential YATE Town’s recent run to the FA Cup 1st round and a tie against Yeovil earned the club in excess of £25,000 in prize money and sponsorship – and now the club is hoping to build on that success.

They might have lost 5-0 to their more famous visitors, but club officials believe this is the latest building block in the club’s ambition to climb further up the non-league pyramid.

Commercial Manager Mark Thorne said: "It was our first home game at this stage of the competition and only the second time we have reached so far.

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"It was great to see the stadium full with a 1,600 crowd, with tickets which sold out within six hours. It shows the potential the club has got and it is just a matter of getting some of those to come back now."

The Bluebells average around 250 spectators for home matches in the Southern League Premier South and are currently sitting in mid-table.

There was a small increase in attendance for the following home league game against Taunton Town and the club hopes to attract fans from Bristol City and Bristol Rovers when their teams are playing away on a

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There is one downside to Yate’s cup success - their run has attracted interest in their players from other clubs. As a result, following the Yeovil game, club captain and leading scorer Dave Sims-Burgess signed for Bath City, which is a blow to their hopes of making the end of season play-offs.

Mark said: "The last time we reached the 1st round, in 2012, we also lost a couple of players off the back of that success. However, our manager Paul Michael is already proactive trying to replace him."

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