Frome Valley Voice January 2022

fromevalleyvoice www.fromevalleyvoice.co.uk

January, 2022 Issue 101

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

Young heroes save a life Rudi Winter and Harry Sumner saved a young boy from traffic in Winterbourne.

New school for teen

A WINTERBOURNE teenager is going to school for the first time in nearly two years after her family won a legal battle.

PAGE 3

'Outstanding' children AN inspector from the education watchdog has praised the "exceptionally" well-behaved children and effective staff at a Winterbourne preschool.

PAGE 4

Landlord's long stint A WINTERBOURNE landlord has called time on 36 years in charge of the same pub.

PAGE 7

Bus crisis TWO boys have received an award after rescuing a small child from being run over.

Winterbourne Academy Year 8 pupils Rudi Winter, 12, and Harry Sumner, 13, were walking to school when they saved a young boy who had run away from his mother and into busy rush-hour traffic.

Without a thought for their own safety the two friends saved him – then walked on to school as if nothing had happened.

But a member of the public who saw what happened told their school – and the boys' bravery was soon recognised with an award.

Turn to page 2

SOUTH Gloucestershire's three MPs have called for a meeting with the government as the region's mayor warns bus services face “irreparable damage”.

PAGE 8

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

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

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January, 2022

n NEWS

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February deadline Our February deadline is January 19.

FromeValley Voice contacts Richard Drew

Ken McCormick

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

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Editor

Rudi Winter and Harry Sumner receive their awards from Winterbourne Academy head teacher Jason Beardmore.

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

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

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

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Boys save a life on their way to school From page 1 The incident happened in mid-November as Rudi and Harry were walking to school by the shops in Flaxpits Lane.

They saw a small boy, believed to be aged around four, running along the road and the boy's mother running after him, shouting: "Stop him!"

They grabbed him by the coat but it was undone, and he struggled out of it. They could see a car approaching, so stepped into the road and grabbed him.

Harry's mum, Amy, said: "They pulled the younger boy on to the pavement, where Harry cuddled him to stop him running off again, until his mother could catch up.

"The incident was seen by an awful lot of people and Harry was actually upset that no one had stopped the child before he and Rudi stepped in."

A woman who saw what happened asked the two friends, who live in Coalpit Heath, for their names before they carried on into school, as if nothing had happened.

Winterbourne Academy assistant head teacher Andrea WilliamJones said: "We only learned of Harry and Rudi's selfless act from a member of the public.

"They'd been so moved by the boys' understanding and desire to help bring the toddler to safety, that they felt they had to phone in.

"In their typically modest way, Harry and Rudi had to be fetched from lessons to explain how they had helped while on their journey to school!

"In doing as they did, we felt that both students embodied the Pride values of Winterbourne Academy. It was only right to recognise this via a Pride of Winterbourne award."

Amy said: "By some miracle, Harry actually told me what had happened that evening when he got home from school.

"To have mentioned it at all I think he must have felt quite proud of himself. I was exceptionally proud of him.

"At school he and Rudi were taken out of class by the deputy head and taken to see the head. They were probably quite nervous – until he presented them with the Pride award, which goes on their school lanyards.

"The school only gives out two or three of these awards a year. It was one of those moments that makes your heart go boom."

Rudi's mum, Stacey, said: "He came home that night and told me all about it. I'm just really proud of both boys."

The Voice would love to hear from the parents of the boy who was saved. You can get in touch at contact@fromevalleyvoice.co.uk or by calling 01454 800120.

Email: contact@fromevalleyvoice.co.uk

fromevalleyvoice

January, 2022

n NEWS A WINTERBOURNE teenager is going to school for the first time in nearly two years after her family won a legal battle.

Lily-Grace Hooper, from Winterbourne, who is visuallyimpaired, has been schooled at home since the start of the lockdown in March 2020.

South Gloucestershire Council wanted Lily-Grace to attend Brimsham Green School in Yate after she finished primary school that year.

But her mother, Kristy, believed the school's resource base for children with disabilities was not suitable for her daughter, who is now 13.

It has taken her family until now to persuade South Gloucestershire education officials to let Lily-Grace attend the secondary school they believe will give her the best shot at learning.

Kristy said: "We never wanted a mainstream secondary environment for Lily-Grace. We made that clear a long time ago.

"Educating children with special needs in mainstream education is a good idea for some but it's not for everyone.

"I don't think, at any point, the social and emotional aspects of Lily-Grace's life or her choice of peers were considered at all."

This month, however, following a third, successful appeal, Lily-Grace will attend New College Worcester, an independent specialist school in Worcester.

It caters for 11 to 19-year-old pupils who are blind or whose vision is impaired.

Initially Lily-Grace is attending the college two days a week.

On the other days she will continue learning at home in Winterbourne, where a tutor provided by the council has been working with her since June,

3

Lily-Grace goes back to school after family's battle

Lily-Grace Hooper in uniform on a visit to her new school teaching maths and English.

Once she has settled into her new school she will become a full-time weekly boarder, travelling to Worcester on Sundays and returning home after school on Fridays.

Lily-Grace visited New College for an induction day before Christmas.

Her mum said: "Lily-Grace is very bright and she loves this place. She is going to do really well here.

The school's head, Nic Ross, said: "Every student at NCW has a tailored programme, carefully planned and delivered to meet their individual needs in three key areas: academic achievement, independent living skills and involvement in extracurricular activities at the college and in the community."

The family has spent more than £7,000 on lawyers' bills

in challenging the council to fund the schooling which, they believe, would be best for LilyGrace.

Kristy thanked friends and neighbours in Winterbourne who raised over £3,000 towards the costs at a series of sponsored events at the end of November, including a football match at the village recreation ground and party at the George & Dragon pub.

Asked if Lily-Grace would now be educated permanently at New College, a council spokesperson said: "Lily-Grace will start her transition to her new school in January. We are unable to confirm the duration of the placement."

It leaves Kristy facing the possibility of fighting to keep her daughter at the new school even as she celebrates finally getting her there.

But after winning her fight for her daughter's place, she said: "You just shouldn't take 'no' for an answer. Don't be fobbed off."

Lily with mum Kristy and fundraiser Darren Sims at a fundraiser in November at the George & Dragon in Winterbourne

Got News? Call Richard 0n 01454 800 120

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fromevalleyvoice

January, 2022

n NEWS

Inspector praises early years centre AN inspector from the education watchdog has praised the "exceptionally" well-behaved children and effective staff at Winterbourne Early Years Centre.

Ofsted visited the preschool at the Greenfield Centre, Park Avenue, for an inspection in October.

Its report said children's behaviour and attitudes were 'outstanding'. The preschool was rated 'good' for quality of teaching, leadership, personal development, and overall.

Winterbourne Early Years Centre has been running as a charitable preschool for nearly 60 years, moving from a village hall to the Greenfield Centre, next to Elm Park Primary School, in 1999.

The Greenfield Centre site houses its 'Little Bears' room for two to three year olds and 'Big Bears' room for three to four year olds. There is also a Rainbow Bears room at St Michael’s C of E Primary School, catering for three to four year olds.

It was the first time the regulator had visited the Greenfield Centre site, which has 50 children on its roll and 15 staff employed by a voluntary committee, for more than six years.

Inspector Rachael Williams said: "Children behave exceptionally well. They take turns with resources, show respect for each other's ideas and play beautifully together.

"Friendly and approachable

staff are highly respectful and acknowledge children's emotions to help them make good choices and improve how they feel.

Children make independent choices and are motivated to learn in a stimulating learning environment."

The inspector said staff "provide a wealth of exciting and enriching experiences" for the children.

She praised how the children were able to "engage in 'risky play' enthusiastically, under the close supervision of staff", including climbing a small ladder to a tree. They were able to "identify when an area is not safe" and use tools safely.

The inspector added: "Children show pride in their achievements and develop high levels of self-esteem."

The report said the children "feel safe and have a strong sense of belonging" and said staff "actively involve parents" in their learning.

Support for children with additional needs was also highlighted, with managers using extra funding available to "provide a broader range of experiences", including outdoor learning and aids to concentration.

Acting manager Julie-Anne Dyer said: "The outcome of 'good' in the latest Ofsted inspection of the Greenfield site has delighted us all, especially after only returning to the new school year for five weeks, settling and getting to know

A PAVILION that hosts Frampton Cotterell Rugby Club was forced to temporarily shut its doors after it was declared unsafe.

Frampton Cotterell Parish Council closed the pavilion at The Park after fears a water tank in the roof of the two-story structure was not being held in place securely.

A water overflow had badly damaged wooden beams underneath, which supported the tanks.

The pavilion houses a local scout group on the first floor and changing facilities for the rugby

club on the ground floor.

A structural engineer was brought in to assess the building and remedial work was being carried out as the Frome Valley Voice went to press.

The rugby club faced having to play fixtures at nearby Hoopers Field, which is owned

by Winterbourne Academy, but no home games were scheduled during the closure.

Parish council clerk Linda Squire told the Voice: “The council identified a serious health and safety issue at the pavilion and immediately decided to close the pavilion

Children learning at the Winterbourne Early Years Centre new children and families and having to manage COVID-19 restrictions."

She said the centre's structured Forest School activities had helped children learn about risk and safety.

Julie-Ann added: "The preschool is aided by a fantastic trustee committee, mainly made up of parents, who assist the centre and are always available to advise and guide us with any areas that need attention.

They are hands-on and a visible support to the centre, frequently popping in to say hello and to offer any help when needed.

"Winterbourne Early Years Centre is a very happy setting with fabulous parent support and strong links to local schools and the wider community.

"All our families are important to us and we love to

The school's outdoor provision and management of 'risky play' was praised in the report see the children thriving and developing whilst they are with us.

"It is always bittersweet when ‘our’ children leave for primary school but we feel proud of the part we play in readying them for the next step."

For more information on the preschool email enquire@ winterbournepreschool.co.uk.

Pavilion forced to close over safety fears

To advertise, contact Richard on 01454 800 120

The pavilion at the Park was declared unsafe from December 7 to prevent a serious incident or accident occurring to ensure the safety of the users.

"A structural engineer has

visited the site and provided advice."

Work to make the building safe was expected to be complete before Christmas.

Email: contact@fromevalleyvoice.co.uk

January, 2022

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Cycle lane road works set to begin DRIVERS are being warned of road closures and narrow lanes when work gets underway to build a new cycle lane to Coalpit Heath and Frampton Cotterell to Yate.

Work on the A432 Badminton Road is set to begin on January 3, with overnight road closures from 8pm to 6am until January 9 between Coalpit Heath and Nibley Lane, on the outskirts of Yate.

The closures will herald the start of five months of work to build the cycle lane, with the Steve Reade road being narrowed at first and temporary traffic lights put in place later on.

Announcing the works, South Gloucestershire Council's StreetCare department said: "The road needs to be closed while our teams will remove all the existing road markings and install narrower lanes so we can construct a new, safe cycle lane.

"The narrow lanes mean we will not need to use temporary traffic signals during the first phase of the works (although they will be required later on).

"The total length of the works will be five months.

"The A432 Badminton Road is a key link between the A4174 Avon Ring Road and Yate that has been identified for improvement.

"The existing on-carriageway cycle facilities are well below the standards set out in the Government’s Local Transport Note and it's important to keep all road users safe."

The council said signed diversions will be in place during the closures in early January and apologised for any inconvenience.

The cycle lane will eventually link Yate to the Avon Ring Road in each direction.

Building it will involve creating some new lanes and widening some stretches of existing cycle lane at the expense of motor traffic.

The Coalpit Heath to Nibley Lane section will have a new cycle lane raised up to create a separate protected track, 2m wide.

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

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

Announcing the scheme in March, council cabinet member for regeneration, environment and strategic infrastructure Steve Reade said: “We want to do all we can to encourage sustainable transport options, for both commuting and leisure, so that we can continue to improve our environment, air quality and people’s health and well-being."

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

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

Got News? Call Richard 0n 01454 800 120

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News and Updates Tree Planting at Centenary Field with the

Resident Survey Closed The Frampton Cotterell Parish Council Resident would

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the

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people who took the time to complete this survey; your feedback is vital! The November,

Parish Council will now begin the task

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Centenary Field! This event was organised

Carols Around The Tree

for the Queen's Green Canopy project, as part of the jubilee celebrations! Our treeplanting

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weekend, but our enthusiastic planters got it all done in one morning! Great work!

Councillor Vacancy thoughts, opinions, and ideas on how to improve things?

Do you have skills, knowledge, and experience which could be of benefit to others?

Do you want to make a difference in your local community?

Do you have

If the answer to any of these questions is

applying to become a Councillor with Frampton Cotterell Parish Council!

"yes",

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For more information, contact:

office@framptoncotterell-pc.gov.uk

Frampton Cotterell Parish Council's annual

Carols Around The Tree

event took place

on Friday the 3rd of December, and was a huge

success!

So

many

members

of

the

local community came along to sing carols, make crafts, buy local goods, and have free hot food and drink! The atmosphere was magical, and we'd like to thank everyone who came along for helping us raise

£188

for Macmillan. The Parish Council would like to

give

special

thanks

Singers for leading the of our volunteers who

to

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carols, and to

helped make it a

night to remember! Thank you!

www.framptoncotterell-pc.gov.uk/ email: office@framptoncotterell-pc.gov.uk

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fromevalleyvoice

January, 2022

7

n NEWS

Steve calls time after 36 years at pub A NEW landlord is seeing a Winterbourne pub into the New Year, after his predecessor called time on 36 years behind the bar.

Steve Moyse first pulled a pint at the Masons Arms in North Road, Watley's Ed, on November 28, 1985.

He called last orders for the last time 36 years later to the day, at the age of 70.

The pub has been taken over

by Carlos Rodrigues, who runs a construction firm.

Carlos, 40, was already a customer of the 140-year old pub, and his grandfather took him to the Masons for his first pint. Just before taking over as landlord on December 1, Carlos repaid the gesture, taking his grandfather in before he entered a care home.

"After 36 years Steve has left some pretty big shoes to fill," acknowledged Carlos.

Although he has never run a pub, he says he wanted to take it over "so it could carry on exactly as it is", adding: "It's such a successful local pub and I didn't want someone coming in from outside and changing everything.

"In construction I always tried to provide the highest level of service.

"There might be things to learn, but Steve will still be living

Steve Moyse and new landlord Carlos Rodrigues around the corner."

Steve was not set to be among the revellers seeing in the New Year, however, as he and partner Sarah were due to go on holiday to Tenerife.

When they return home they plan to spend the summer travelling around England, watching test cricket, courtesy of

grateful customers.

They raised enough money to allow the keen cricket fan - and Sarah who, loyally, has become one - to attend each of England's test matches in 2022. They also raised the money for the accommodation.

When not following the cricket, Steve will be living less

than five minutes' walk from the Masons Arms, at Sarah's home.

He said: "We've been together for 18 years but, as I lived over the pub, we've always lived separately."

His surprise send-off, courtesy of Sarah and their neighbours, was memorable.

He said: "It was lovely but, of course, I didn't order in any extra food!"

Worse, for a publican who believes the secret of three decades' success was "running a tight ship", the pub ran out of beer and cider for the first time.

Steve blamed the pandemic for his decision to retire.

He said: "Covid has had a massive effect on the trade.

"The second lockdown got me into a new routine, walking the dog and seeing our horse.

"That started me thinking I'm probably the only landlord who enjoyed lockdown!"

Masons' regulars attest that the renowned dog-lover "will be missed by his four-legged friends as well as his two-legged ones".

Customer Myra Evans, of Winterbourne Down, said: "Our dog, Barney, looked forward to a visit to the pub almost as much as we did!"

Learn to save a life with defibrillator A DEFIBRILLATOR has been installed in Coalpit Heath - and people are being urged to find out how they can use it to save a life.

Defibrillators give a high-energy electric shock to the heart of someone who is in cardiac arrest and, along with CPR, can keep a patient alive until they can be given professional treatment.

Kept in a lockable cabinet, it can be accessed if someone has a cardiac arrest by calling 999 – emergency services have a code which can be used to unlock the cabinet, and can talk the user through the process of attaching pads to the patient's chest and administering a shock where necessary.

Westerleigh Parish Council has just installed a defibrillator at the Miner's Club, Coalpit Heath Village Hall, with two others at Henfield Hall in Ram Hill and Westerleigh Village Hall.

They have been funded from money paid by builders of the Blackberry Park development.

To support the installations the parish council has organised free one-hour information sessions so residents can learn how to use a defibrillator and give CPR. Sessions take place in Coalpit Heath at the Miners Club on January 28 at 7pm and January 29 at 11am.

There will also be sessions at Westerleigh Village Hall on January 14 at 7pm and January 15 at 11am.

Anyone who would like to come along should email their name and phone number to the parish clerk at westerleighpc@gmail.com or leave them in a message at 07367 787883, so the council has an idea of numbers attending.

Anyone who cannot make these dates you can learn by booking a Zoom webinar

Got News? Call Richard 0n 01454 800 120

run by the defibrillator installers at aeddonate.org.uk/events. *A consultation has been launched on changing the name of Westerleigh Parish Council to Westerleigh and Coalpit Heath Parish Council.

South Gloucestershire Council, which is running the consultation after a request from the parish council, said: "This would mean the name of the parish council would better reflect the identities and interests of the communities in the area."

People are being invited to have their say online at consultations.southglos.gov. uk/Westerleigh/consultationHome before January 14.

Anyone who is not online can call 01454 868009 or write to "Freepost COMMUNITY GOVERNANCE REVIEW" to have their say.

Email: contact@fromevalleyvoice.co.uk

fromevalleyvoice

8

January, 2022

n NEWS

MPs want meeting over bus funding crisis SOUTH Gloucestershire's three MPs have called for a meeting with the government over funding for bus services.

Chris Skidmore, Luke Hall and Jack Lopresti have all signed a letter to Baroness Vere to raise concerns over the prospect of a reduction in service levels after the transition between two forms of government support for bus operators – the current Bus Recovery Grant and the incoming Bus Transformation Fund – which is due to happen in April 2022.

The MPs have told the minister: "We would like to request an urgent meeting with you to discuss how the Department for Transport can help protect our local bus services and manage the current mismatch between operators’ costs and actual revenue."

The MPs say they are concerned that, while the £3 billion Bus Transformation Fund announced by the Chancellor in October would improve infrastructure, fares and services, it "may not be used to support existing bus services that cease to be viable when the Bus Recovery Grant ends".

The MPs said they were urging the West

of England Combined Authority, which has strategic responsibility for services in the region, "to prioritise the provision of bus services for local people over bureaucracy".

Metro Mayor Dan Norris, who is in charge of the authority, raised concerns in November that, after collapsing during the pandemic, bus passenger numbers had only reached 70% of the equivalent period in 2019.

At a WECA joint committee meeting on December 17 he warned that “irreparable damage” will be caused to local bus services unless the government acts now, with 33 bus routes under threat across the region without government support.

Mr Norris warned that the Bus Transformation Fund "will not be able to be used to subsidise services that are not commercially viable".

He wrote to the government to ask for an extension of the Bus Recovery Grant or for alternative funding to be put in place to cover the shortfall between operators’ costs and actual revenue.

Mr Norris said: "I do not have the resources locally to save the buses we need to save. Unless the Government act there

will be huge disruption to passengers and there is a risk of irreparable damage to our local bus network."

The Labour mayor had asked all local MPs to agree a joint letter. While the Conservative MPs had written their own, the Labour and Liberal Democrat MPs in Bristol and Bath had signed a letter to Baroness Vere and Transport Secretary Grant Shapps.

The letter from Mr Norris and the Labour and Liberal Democrat MPs said: "We urge you to extend Bus Recovery Grant or to put alternative funding in place to cover the shortfall between operators’ costs and actual revenue, until such time as passenger numbers recover to a sufficient level that will sustain a viable commercial operation."

A DfT spokesperson said Baroness Vere would replying to the MPs shortly regarding their invitation.

He said the department was "in close contact" with transport bodies but the Government "wishes to see the sector return to financial viability".

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fromevalleyvoice

January, 2022

9

n NEWS

New acting head for school FRAMPTON Cotterell C of E Primary School has unveiled a new leadership team.

Hannah Hornig is stepping up from deputy head to the role of acting head teacher after Peter Barnard moved on to a new school.

Mr Barnard, who had been at Frampton Cotterell for 12 years, is moving on to St Michaels Primary School in Stoke Gifford.

Special educational needs coordinator Catherine Walker has been appointed acting deputy head teacher.

Key Stage 2 lead Alex Knight and Key Stage 1 lead Abigail Anderton make up the rest of the leadership team.

Mrs Hornig said she was "honoured and privileged" to be taking on the acting head teacher role from January.

She said: "I look forward to working very closely with the governors, staff, parents, church and local community to ensure that our children 'become the

Acting head Hannah Hornig (centre) with Alex Knight and Catherine Walker. best they can'.

"I will build upon the success that the school has already achieved and take the school forward even further.

"I intend to ensure that our school continues with the same ethos, nurturing care and Christian values that have been developed over many years.

"Together with the Senior

Leadership team and the unwavering support of the highly skilled whole school team, we are extremely excited about the journey ahead."

The school is welcoming visits from prospective parents for the next academic year, who can book by calling 01454 867205 or emailing office@fcceprimary. co.uk.

Murder inquiry launched after Yate woman dies POLICE say a woman who died in Gloucestershire, sparking a murder investigation, was from Yate.

Jaqueline Walker, who was 59, was found dead in Bath Road, Stonehouse, near Stroud, in the early hours of November 28.Her identity was confirmed

by Gloucestershire Coroners Service.

Police arrested a 53-year-old man on suspicion of murder shortly after Ms Walker's death.

He was later released under investigation pending further enquiries.

A Home Office post-mortem examination was carried out the day after Ms Walker was found but the results had not been made public as the Voice went to press.

Police asked witnesses to call them on 101.

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fromevalleyvoice

January, 2022

11

n NEWS BRISTOL Bears' continuing woes on the rugby pitch are having one good side effect.

The side's defensive frailties mean young Bears fan and Frampton Cottrell under-12s player Toby Fletcher has already reached his initial £6,000 fundraising target for St Peter's Hospice.

The Voice reported in November that Winterbourne Academy pupil Toby had pledged to run 1km for each point the Bears concede this season to raise funds for the charity.

But, having topped the table last year, this time Bristol find themselves second bottom after nine games, having conceded 256 points - more than two thirds of their total over 22 matches in 2020-21.

It means Toby, from Winterbourne, has already run almost the equivalent of Bristol to Manchester - but support from sympathetic fans means he has already raised £6,295 for the hospice and is considering raising the bar to £10,000.

Toby has also met with Bears director of rugby Pat Lam and been interviewed at the Ashton Gate stadium.

But he told the Voice: “I just

Toby racks up the cash as Bears ship points

Toby Fletcher meets Bristol Bears director of rugby Pat Lam. wish Bristol Bears would defend better.

"I’m happy to run up to 20k a

week but any more is really hard work.

"I will keep going though!”

Toby is running for the charity, which runs Bristol's only adult hospice, because the staff cared for his beloved grandmother, June, until her death in February 2020.

The charity's income fell by £2 million in 2020 as the pandemic forced the closure of its shops and suspension of other fundraising activities.

Toby's mum Claire said: “We are so proud of what Toby is doing to fundraise for such an amazing charity that cared for his Nanny.

"He would love to reach £10,000 now, which would be an amazing achievement”.

You can keep tabs on Toby’s efforts via his social media channels, Tobysbearathon on Instagram and @TBearathon on Twitter.

Donations can be made online at www.justgiving.com/ fundraising/Claire-Fletcher22.

Warning of 'significant harm' risk to children CHILDREN'S services in South Gloucestershire are failing some and leaving a few at risk of “significant harm”, says the regulator.

Ofsted found multiple flaws in the local authority’s process for handling concerns raised by members of the public about children’s safety.

Its findings about the so-called ‘front door’ to South Gloucestershire Council’s children’s service come twoand-a-half years after the service as a whole was judged to ‘require improvement’.

In a letter to the council on December 14, following a twoday visit last month, inspector Tracey Scott said: “Delays in children being seen, in the completion of assessments of their needs, and in carrying out child-protection enquiries mean that some children are left in situations of unassessed risk.

“For a few children, this has meant that they have been left in situations where they are known to be at risk of significant harm but are not receiving the help and support they need.

“The pace of improvement at the front door since the last inspection in 2019 has been too slow and, in some areas of practice, the quality of work has deteriorated.”

The council has accepted Ofsted’s findings and promised to “significantly and swiftly” make improvements.

The 'front door', technically known as the ‘access and response team’, handles calls from the public and gathers information about any child safety concerns, before assessing each case and deciding what to do next.

The inspector told the council it must make improvements in areas

Got News? Call Richard 0n 01454 800 120

including the timeliness and quality of visits to children, assessments of risks, and size of social worker caseloads.

The service also needs to keep better and more accurate records so that decisions are based on “full and accurate information”.

The council has 70 days to submit an action plan for making priority improvements.

Cabinet member for children and young people Samuel Bromiley said: “There is no other way to read this report than to accept it shows we are not doing well enough to support those children, young people and their families who need us the most.

“It does not blame the dedicated staff who do an incredibly difficult job with real commitment and empathy, but it is clear that we must take collective responsibility for the fact that we have to improve

our services significantly and swiftly.”

Labour councillor Alison Evans said she was “completely dismayed” by the findings about the service, at a council meeting the day after the letter was published.

She said: "Teachers, doctors, neighbours, family members and friends contact the ‘front door’ when they have concerns that a child like Arthur [Labinjo-Hughes] is suffering abuse; they do so in the expectation that their concerns will be acted on promptly and effectively.

“To read Ofsted’s letter it is apparent that this is not happening.”

Cllr Bromiley said the council had already started to make improvements, including employing an extra team of five social workers.

By Amanda Cameron, Local Democracy Reporting Service

Email: contact@fromevalleyvoice.co.uk

12

fromevalleyvoice

January, 2022

n NEWS

Resident dumped waste on Winterbourne roadside

A MAN dumped five bulging bin bags and other waste on a Winterbourne roadside, despite being entitled to take it to a recycling centre.

Sunil Singh, now of Buckingham Place, Downend, dumped the waste at the side of Down Road in Winterbourne during August.

South Gloucestershire Council, which prosecuted him, said that at the time of the offence he was living half a mile from the spot where he dumped the waste.

Singh, aged 22, was prosecuted after South Gloucestershire Council’s environmental crime team investigated and found evidence relating to another address in Holcombe, near Radstock, where Singh had previously lived.

Singh was fined £200 and ordered to pay £354 in costs after pleading guilty to flytipping at Bristol Magistrates Court.

A man from Yate has been ordered to pay a total of £858 in fines and costs after being

The waste dumped by Sunil Singh spotted dumping waste at a layby at Bury Hill in Yate.

Mitchell Palmer, aged 34, of Windsor Drive, was prosecuted after a resident saw him dumping a number of black bags, challenged him for dumping the waste and took pictures of him and the bags on a mobile phone in February.

The council said that, when interviewed, Palmer admitted fly-tipping the waste, saying it

was an accumulation of rubbish from an address he had been sharing with his ex-girlfriend.

A spokesperson said: "He claimed that he’d attempted a visit to his local Sort It recycling centre that morning but found the queue too long and was not prepared to wait.

"Palmer admitted that he knew his actions were unlawful and said he was remorseful for his behaviour."

He was fined £320 and ordered to pay £504 in costs and a £34 victim surcharge.

A third person, 28-year-old Louis Henry, of Clos–Y–Gelyn, Cardiff, was fined £320 and ordered to pay £376 in costs after being spotted throwing cardboard from the back of a van onto the verge of the A46 at Clay Pitch, near Horton, in September.

Cabinet Member for Communities and Local Place, Cllr Rachael Hunt said: “There is no excuse for fly-tipping and with these particular cases, a simple trip to the local recycling centre would have meant this waste was disposed of lawfully.

“In addition to it being illegal, it’s plain laziness to dump rubbish in this way and expect others to clear the mess left behind.”

Fly-tipping can be reported by calling the StreetCare helpdesk on 01454 868000, emailing streetcare@southglos.gov.uk or visiting www.southglos.gov.uk/ flytipping.

Concern on hate crime Parcel theft warning POLICE are concerned about the level of hate crime in South Gloucestershire, which remains high after a huge spike in reported incidents just over a year ago.

Some 390 hate crimes were reported to Avon and Somerset Police in the 12 months to November, according to the latest figures for South Gloucestershire – more than one per day.

District area commander Dan Forster said after reports jumped by 24 per cent just over a year ago, levels had remained persistently high, reflecting a national rise.

He told members of South Gloucestershire’s multiagency community safety partnership: "At the time we did some analysis around that to understand why that was the case, and there’s no doubt whatsoever that international factors were coming into play.

"Things like the Trump

administration, locally the BLM [Black Lives Matter] protests, Brexit, all of that played into this increase in hate crime."

The meeting on December 3 heard that the latest figures represented a 0.5% reduction on 2020 but Chief Insp Forster said the “general increase” was of concern to police.

He said: “Half of those offences have been racehate type offences. Violence against the person and public disorder take the lion’s share of those types of offences. This is obviously something we’re concerned about.”

Chief Insp Forster said police believed hate crime was under-reported in South Gloucestershire.

Overall, one per cent less crime was reported in South Gloucestershire over the past year than in the previous 12 months.

By Amanda Cameron, Local Democracy Reporting Service

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POLICE have warned of an increasing trend in thefts of parcels and mail from people's doorsteps over the past year.

The rise in crimes by so-called “doorstep pirates” came as thousands of orders from delivery companies were being made around Christmas.

Chief Inspector Dan Forster, Avon and Somerset Police’s area commander for South Gloucestershire, said the number of reported incidents of theft of parcels and mail from people’s doorsteps in the district had nearly tripled in the past year compared with the previous 12 months.

A total of 58 incidents were reported in the year to November, compared with 20 in the previous 12 months, he told members of South Gloucestershire’s multi-agency community safety partnership.

Chief Insp Forster said that although the reported numbers “aren’t huge”, many incidents are likely to be going unreported.

He said: “If you imagine that you order something from Amazon and it doesn’t arrive because it’s been stolen from your doorstep, do you necessarily report that?

"Do you know it was stolen, or do you just phone up Amazon and they send you another one?”

Incidents of robbery and burglary were down by 15%, criminal damage by 14%, antisocial behaviour by 8% and assault with injury by 6%, the partnership heard.

The figures are largely due to lockdowns and other Covid restrictions, and are part of an overall general downward trend in reported crime in the district, Chief Insp Forster said.

Email: contact@fromevalleyvoice.co.uk

fromevalleyvoice

January, 2022

13

n NEWS

NHS workers tell of fears for safety

STAFF from the NHS Yate Minor Injury Unit say they feel vulnerable and fearful after a rise in violent and aggressive behaviour from the public.

MIU deputy matron Lizzy Hooper and receptionist Donna Walker have called for more kindness and understanding from patients and relatives as part of a campaign by the Bristol area's NHS health and care organisations, called 'It’s not OK'.

It was launched as the trust which runs Bristol's city centre hospitals reported a 46% increase in incidents of violence and aggression, both verbal and physical, from 881 in the year to March 2020 to 1,284 in 2020/21.

Since April this year the rate has risen still further, with 917 cases in the eight months to the end of November.

Sirona, which provides staff at the MIU, reported a 15% increase in incidents of abuse

Lizzy Hooper and Donna Walker of Yate Minor Injury Unit spoke about abuse and threats from the public on a video and violence across its sites in the space of a year.

Lizzy said: "I shouldn’t have to be fearful for my team’s safety, yet this is a large part of what I am facing at the moment.

"We work very hard to ensure people in our care can be safely assessed and supported with their health care needs.

"It can be very challenging when individuals expect us to be able to see conditions we are not able to treat; we can only

see minor injuries less than two weeks old.

"Some people visiting the department are reluctant to accept there are more appropriate options available to meet their needs.

"We would ask people to be kind and understand the pressures that we are all facing in these challenging times.”

Donna said: "I can feel quite vulnerable while working at the front desk and not knowing

who I may deal with every day, particularly when it is really busy.

"It can also feel very unsettling and demoralising when trying to help a person, only to be yelled at and sworn at along with negative and quite mean comments made towards me and my colleagues.”

Extra demand for services, short staffing and frustrations over booking appointments have added to the pressure at local surgeries.

A CCG spokesperson said: "Whilst the majority of patients and visitors to healthcare settings are respectful and appreciative, there has continued to be a worrying rise in abusive behaviour during the pandemic."

The CCG said violent, aggressive and abusive incidents can have a "lasting impact" on NHS staff and called on patients and relatives to remember "they are people, too".

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fromevalleyvoice

14

January, 2022

n NEWS

New solar farm is given go-ahead A SOLAR farm north of Iron Acton, which could produce enough power for 15,000 homes, has been given planning permission.

The scheme is set to cover 16 agricultural fields between Wickwar and Bagstone, and provide renewable energy for 40 years before being returned to farmland.

South Gloucestershire councillors voted unanimously to approve the development despite fears raised about flooding and road safety.

Objectors, who included three parish councils and 35 residents, told the council's development management committee that access to the 68-hectare (167acre) site for construction traffic was on a dangerous bend with poor visibility on the B4058 Bristol Road, and that the nearby Ladden Brook regularly flooded.

Resident Ed Dixon told the meeting on November 25 that

the scheme for land at Newlands Farm, West End, was “massive in scale and equivalent to nearly 2,000 houses”.

He said the impact on the landscape would the use of rights of way across the fields “much poorer and potentially hazardous”, while horse riders objected because of concerns about how the bridleway would be affected.

Chipping Sodbury & Cotswold Edge ward councillor Adrian Rush told members: “You have to look at it and think this is a great lump of land being taken up by a solar farm.”

The Liberal Democrat councillor said he did not believe Environment Agency advice that flooding would not be a problem.

The application from Rag Lane Solar received 13 letters of support, and planning agent Nick Beddoe told members it would offset 21,000 tonnes of CO2 emissions a year.

Mr Beddoe said there would be extensive planting of wildflowers and 1.7km of hedgerows, sheep could continue to graze and all public rights of way would remain open and be improved.

He said: “The proposals are fully compliant with national and local planning policy and would make a remarkable contribution to tackling climate change.”

South Gloucestershire Council development manager Marie Bath said shallow channels called swales would be cut to reduce overall run-off, which would "improve the flooding situation".

She said there were no objections from landscape, planning, drainage, public rights of way, conservation or ecology officers.

A highways officer said the visibility of the junction was adequate for the speed of traffic and a construction management

Resident Ed Dixon addresses the meeting plan would ensure lorries would not travel through villages or cover nearby roads in mud.

Cllr Ernie Brown (Con, Stoke Gifford) said: “Solar panels are the way to go. It’s not something new, it’s something we need.”

The site is between the B4058 Bristol/Bagstone Road, Rag Lane and Cowship Lane. *An application for a 50MW solar farm at Perrinpit Farm, Frampton Cotterell, is still awaiting a decision from the council.

By Adam Postans, Local Democracy Reporting Service

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fromevalleyvoice

January, 2022

15

n NEWS A 'MASTERPLAN' for improving Yate over the next 20 years has been approved.

South Gloucestershire council says the Town Improvement Masterplan could attract up to £600 million of investment to the town.

Drawn up in cooperation with Yate Town Council, business and residents’ groups and other partners, the council says the plan "will be important in helping to shape the future of Yate".

It says the plan "will build on Yate’s existing character to make it an even more welcoming, healthy, sustainable and prosperous place to live, work and visit".

A 12-week consultation was held over the summer, asking people for their views on a draft vision, which included options for the town centre, railway station, 'Western Gateway' industrial estate and Station Road.

The council said: "During the consultation local people fed back that they want to see more investment in Yate and a modernised town.

"They said that they liked the vision for enhancing active travel, such as walking and cycling, and to reduce congestion.

"There was also support for developing the town in line with climate change commitments and enhancing access to nature, for example making better use of the River Frome as somewhere to enjoy

Yate masterplan is approved

and experience nature in the heart of the community.

"Residents were also positive about plans for transforming the train station and updating the town centre, with an emphasis on active shop frontages, public spaces and keeping the community at the heart of the town centre."

The council says the Masterplan proposes to keep the leisure centre and bus station in their current locations for now, although there could be further discussions

about relocating them in the future if new investment and designs were proposed.

It said the plan also "proposes to maintain overall parking availability and keep building heights sensible".

The masterplan will be used to guide the council's Local Plan, which sets out how and where housing and business space should be built in the future to meet demand.

Council cabinet member for regeneration, environment and strategic infrastructure Steve Reade said: "Yate is our largest town in South Gloucestershire and has a unique identity that we want to see enhanced.

"This new masterplan is ambitious but what is proposed will help strengthen a sustainable and prosperous town. We want to support those living and working in Yate now and in the future."

The 70-page document, which can be found online at www.southglos.gov.uk/ yatemasterplan, includes an ambition to make Yate a “15-minute town”, where work, schools, shops, healthcare and parks are within a 15-minute journey on foot or bike from people's homes.

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fromevalleyvoice

18

January, 2022

n LOCAL MP

Park and ride will be a sustainable travel alternative OUR brand new Yate Park and Ride is only weeks away from opening. The final stages of construction are now taking place.

As a local man, I know how congested our local roads can be, and how beneficial this new park and ride will be, for reducing congestion on our busy roads and improving both our local connections and air quality.

The park and ride will offer free parking for bus users, electric vehicle charging points, secure cycling parking and is just a short walk to Yate railway station, connecting our local public transport better than ever before.

So far it has been confirmed that there will be direct bus services every 30 minutes into Bristol city centre in one direction, and Yate and Chipping Sodbury in the other, with more services and

timetables being confirmed in the coming weeks and months.

I was extremely grateful to everyone who let me know their thoughts about which other locations the park and ride should serve, with Bath, Cribbs Causeway and Southmead Hospital the most popular destinations. I will be continuing to speak to South Gloucestershire Council and local bus operators about the expansion of further services for the park and ride.

This brand-new park and ride is being funded by £3.5 million secured from the West of England Combined Authority and will provide a sustainable alternative for people going both into Yate and towards Bristol, encouraging people to get out of their cars and reduce congestion, as well as to encourage linked up usage with rail services at the nearby Yate

station.

To protect and enhance our natural environment, South Gloucestershire Council will also be retaining all trees on the site, putting them into safe storage while development works take place and replanting them around the park and ride once work is complete.

I will be meeting with First Bus soon to discuss the ways in which we can deliver better services for residents and commuters, with a particular focus on the variety of services through Frampton Cotterell village, a return of services to parts of North Yate, and the frequency of the Y6 Southmead Hospital bus.

The Yate Park and Ride joins the list of successful transport schemes we have worked, with the help of the community, to deliver in the past few years.

Luke Hall MP writes for Frome Valley Voice

These include scrapping the Severn Bridge tolls, agreeing new electric car charging points in Thornbury, Yate and Frampton Cotterell, working to double the frequency of trains, resurfacing our rural roads, and reinstating the Southmead Hospital bus link from Chipping Sodbury.

We are Getting Yate Moving.

It is a huge privilege to serve as your MP. If there is ever anything I can do to help, please do not hesitate to get in touch at luke.hall.mp@parliament.uk.

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fromevalleyvoice

January, 2022

19

n NEWS

Helen's latest book shares love of nature A TEACHING assistant who started writing during lockdown has had her second book published.

Helen Isaac works at Elm Park Primary School in Winterbourne and lives in Winterbourne Down.

She had always wanted to write a children’s book and in March had her first book, Allotment Fun, published by Bumblebee Books, the children’s section of Olympia Publishers.

Now Helen has had a followup, Farm Fun, which has just gone on sale from the same publisher.

Helen said: "Farm Fun is about a little girl who enjoys a lovely day out on a farm with her family. "The inspiration for the story came from a stay at a farm that I enjoyed as a child (many years ago!).

"I still remember how very excited I was seeing all of the animals up close, but particularly

Helen's new book, Farm Fun

Helen Isaac recall the enjoyment of bottle feeding a young lamb."

The book is aimed at children aged from two to five and, like Allotment Fun, has been illustrated by Winterbourne artist Tim Burgess, who went to Elm Park Primary school himself

and produces work as Wild Tales Illustration.

Helen is hoping to read her stories with local youngsters at Winterbourne Library soon to share their message.

She said: "I believe that being involved with nature is really

good for all of us, and engaging with animals is such a positive way to spend some time.

"I really hope that young children will enjoy the story and be inspired to visit a farm."

The new book is available directly from the publisher or from large online booksellers such as Amazon and Waterstones.

Helen said: "There are a number of reviews on Amazon for Allotment Fun which all give it a 5-star rating, which I'm very pleased about!"

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20

fromevalleyvoice

January, 2022

n NEWS FROM THE METRO MAYOR

New Year heralds a greener future THERE is still much uncertainty about the worrying Omicron covid variant spreading among our communities.

It remains hugely important to take up booster jabs when offered them, and to continue to wear masks in shops and on public transport.

Here in the West of England I am proud we have led the country in this sensible approach since last summer and I believe it has saved countless lives locally.

In the best traditions of our wonderful region and nation, let’s continue to look out for each other in 2022.

January is a time to make plans and New Year’s resolutions but, importantly, also a time for us to think about our own well-being.

This month is ‘National Walk Your Dog month.’ If your dog is anything like my working cocker spaniel, Angel, they will implore you for long walks on at least a daily basis!

It’s a great way of getting exercise, fresh air and doing something that’s really good for our

mental health.

Across the West of England there are some fantastic forests, woodland and open spaces to go for walks – my personal favourites being around the beautiful rail viaducts in both Winterbourne and Pensford.

On the subject of green spaces, I was delighted that the flagship £50 million Green Recovery Fund that I pledged in my manifesto was finally voted through in December – and without any strings attached. This was my green promise to you in last May’s election and it is key to our region meeting our ambitious target of net-zero by 2030.

It’s going to deliver key projects like retrofitting homes to make them more energy efficient, installing more charging points for electric cars and creating biodiversity schemes to help bees and other pollinators.

So my New Year’s resolution to you is to continue to be the strong champion our region needs and deserves – from backing our worldclass food and drink producers, to our creative

Metro Mayor

Dan Norris

writes for the Voice

industries and our thriving tech and aerospace sectors.

I want to deliver a public transport network that our region can be really proud of, and to that end I was delighted to launch half-hourly rail services between Severn Beach and Temple Meads, and am proud to promise there are more transport improvements across our region further down the track this year.

So whether you’re doing dry January, ‘Veganuary’ or taking up a new hobby, I wish you and your loved ones a very safe January and 2022.

n NEWS

Suicide prevention helpline calls for volunteers A CHARITY set up to help people considering suicide is looking for more volunteers.

Suicide Prevention Bristol (SPB) offers a national phone line for people who are struggling, as well as patrol teams who engage with vulnerable people.

Its office has recently moved to near Warmley and the charity is appealing for some new call handlers who can spare some of their free time to help others.

The helpline is a 24-hour, national service manned by volunteer call handlers offering support to callers who are vulnerable, distressed, or want to end their lives. They handle up to 300 calls a day Summer Harris, who lives locally, has been a volunteer for six months and trains the call handlers, in addition to them receiving external training.

She said: “I’ve always worked in health and social care and I got involved because I wanted to be part of a unique charity who are on the front line saving lives.

“Suicide is a taboo subject with a lot of stigma attached to it. The only way we can help beat the stigma is to start talking openly about this topic and about mental health in general.

Suicide Prevention Bristol volunteers Robin, Summer and Sarah “SPB is such a warm and welcoming community to volunteer with, offering lots of support to both our callers and volunteers.”

SPB was set up in 2018 after the founder read a newspaper report of a young mother who took her own and her baby’s life.

Patrol volunteers walk around at night to try and spot people who are struggling with

To advertise, contact Richard on 01454 800 120

their mental health and offer them support.

The patrols take place from 9pm to 3am, four days a week.

Anyone who would like more details of volunteering can contact the charity at info@spbristol.org. The National Suicide Prevention Helpline number is 0800 689 5652.

Email: contact@fromevalleyvoice.co.uk

fromevalleyvoice

January, 2022

21

n NEWS

Concert celebrates 10 years of song A CHOIR which has given girls from across the area the chance to find their voices has celebrated its tenth anniversary with a birthday concert.

Junior Fascinating Rhythm performed in front of a full house at Iron Acton Village Hall in December.

The choir, for girls aged seven to 16, is the younger sister of Bristol-based women's barbershop chorus Fascinating Rhythm.

The concert featured Junior FR’s current line-up singing chorus numbers, solos and duets from members who have represented the choir at competitions, and a reunion of current and former members to perform ABBA’s Thank You for the Music.

Junior FR musical director Wendy Howse said: "It was an amazing evening, full of joy and celebration. The absolute highlight was having every Junior FR member, current and past, on stage to sing Thank You For The Music. The sound was immense, and my grin was even wider!

The Junior Fascinating Rhythm choir at their 10th anniversary concert “I will be buzzing for weeks after this event, and I can’t wait to see what the next ten years have in store for Junior FR.” Fascinating Rhythm musical director Jo Thorn, who directed one of the songs, said: "It is so evident by the whole polished performances through the evening just how hard the girls work, not only in rehearsal but

on their own at home – true dedication."

The concert and other fundraising activities raised about £500 for South Gloucestershire charity the Jessie May Trust.

The choir, which rehearses on Friday afternoons from 4-5.30pm during school term time at Iron Acton Village Hall,

Sarah is new police chief AVON and Somerset Constabulary has its first female chief constable.

Sarah Crew has risen to the top job on the force, 27 years after she joined as a new recruit.

She was confirmed in post at a meeting of the Police and Crime Panel in late November, after being named as the Police and Crime Commissioner’s preferred candidate following a "rigorous selection process".

During her policing career, Sarah has taken on roles including head of intelligence, lead officer for Bristol CID and commander of the South Gloucestershire policing area, before taking on the role of Deputy Chief Constable in 2017.

She had been appointed temporary chief constable in July, when previous chief constable Andy Marsh stepped down.

Sarah said: "It will be the greatest honour of my life to serve the wonderfully diverse communities of Avon and Somerset as Chief

Avon and Somerset police Chief Constable Sarah Crew Constable.

"I don’t underestimate the privilege and responsibility this role carries with it and I’m wholly committed to delivering the outstanding policing our communities want and deserve.

"Policing is at a watershed moment: there’s nothing more precious than the founding principle of policing by consent, and we must work tirelessly to earn and keep the public’s trust.

"At its heart, the philosophy of policing is a bond of trust between citizens in policing and citizens in communities. Protecting

Got News? Call Richard 0n 01454 800 120

is currently recruiting new members from anywhere in South Gloucestershire.

There are no auditions and no previous singing or musical experience is needed.

Anyone who is interested can get in touch online at fascinating-rhythm.com.

and strengthening this bond of trust is my overriding priority and I believe greater openness and accountability, and a renewed focus on culture and ethics, will be pivotal in achieving this."

Sarah is the National Police Chiefs’ Council lead for rape and sexual assault, and has overseen the introduction to in Avon and Somerset police of Project Bluestone, aimed at transforming the way police respond and investigate rape and serious sexual offences by improving police response to victims and "shifting the focus onto offenders".

PCC Mark Shelford said: "In a world where crime is changing rapidly, police need to adapt to keep up and I know Sarah enthusiastically supports innovation and improving technology to ensure Avon and Somerset is an efficient and effective police service.

"Sarah has a proven track record of strong and successful leadership and, through her NPCC role, she is undertaking important work with criminal justice and partner agencies to improve conviction rates for these types of offences and give victims the support they deserve.

"It’s been a tough two years for policing due to the pandemic, a changing landscape and new demands, but I am confident that Sarah will successfully deliver for our communities at such a pivotal time for policing."

Email: contact@fromevalleyvoice.co.uk

A job that matters

Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire

Looking for a career change?

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Katherine is a support worker helping adults with learning disabilities. She fits her job around being a mum.

Casey visits people’s homes as a domiciliary care worker. She’s also studying for her NVQs in health and social care.

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Everyone is welcome, with or without experience, as we’ll offer all the relevant training and support.

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fromevalleyvoice

January, 2022

23

n THOUGHT FOR THE MONTH

Happy New Year – and goodbye HAPPY New Year to all the readers of Frome Valley Voice.

I'm sad to say this will be my last article, as at the end of February I will be finishing my ministry at Zion United Church in Frampton Cotterell.

So the first thing I want to do is to thank the members of that church and my colleagues – we've had some fun.

Thanks as well to all our neighbours: it has been a privilege to live and work among you for the last 16 years. It certainly feels like we are moving away from home, albeit we aren't planning to move far, as my new role will keep me in the Bristol area. As I think back over this time, it's easy to forget that it hasn't all been about covid.

We've enjoyed all sorts of community events down the years, perhaps the highlight being the Frampton Festivals. At the start I was heavily involved, but it took off with lots of other people's input. I do hope these

community events that draw us all together can soon be reinstated.

Living in a community is all about the people, and there are loads of characters in this area, and people who serve tirelessly.

As the local minister I'd be the first to acknowledge that the church has no monopoly on doing good. However, I've been absolutely delighted that, particularly during the pandemic, we have worked out a little better how to play our part, working alongside others in the community.

Eight local churches launched Together4Fromeside.

When we rather tentatively launched a 'Comfort and Joy' appeal to help families struggling because of lockdown before Christmas 2020, we were overwhelmed: the churches themselves were generous but the public blew us away. Anyone who would like to support this year’s Comfort and Joy

Appeal can visit justgiving.com/ campaign/comfort-joy We've set up a mutual aid group to manage and oversee neighbour-to-neighbour support, working with Bromford Housing and other agencies. It hasn't simply all been about aid – increasingly it feels like we've been able to help some members of our community to re-engage with each other and feel part of the community again.

To me this is absolutely wonderful: local engagement and community empowerment – I'm all for it, and just a tad jealous to be leaving when it's all beginning to kick off.

A final word. I realise loads of people have over the years quietly dispensed with the Christian faith, and maybe a worldwide pandemic and so much ongoing suffering will galvanise that view.

For myself, I believe the world, our community and everything surrounding us has meaning and

Stephen Newell Zion United Church Frampton Cotterell purpose. I am a Christian because I believe that even though Jesus died 2,000 years ago, his life can help us overcome suffering and discover meaning.

So goodbye Fromeside and thank you again. I'm leaving, but in my view Jesus never leaves us, he's always there, just a whisper and a prayer away. Why not give him a call? You might be surprised!

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Email: contact@fromevalleyvoice.co.uk

fromevalleyvoice

24

January, 2022

n RECIPE OF THE MONTH

Ann Murray founded the Cooking4 Cookery School based in Chipping Sodbury. She’s teamed up with Frome Valley Voice to pass on her wealth of experience in the kitchen.

Sunshine Food for January THIS month’s recipe is a favourite of mine for this time of year, when the weather is grey and stormy. It’s quick - ready in about 20 mins colourful and healthy.

I love all the rich Christmas food, but by now I’m looking

forward to something to cleanse my palate and be less calorific. This salmon dish ticks all of those boxes.

I find that a lot of people shy away from cooking fish, either because they don’t know how to cook it, particularly for how long, or

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they’ve had it done badly.

So I’ve made sure that, in my recipe, I’ve given you all the tips to create a beautiful piece of salmon with crispy skin, soft flesh and a tasty, vibrant salad filling, all served in a taco.

Just the thing to excite your taste buds whether it’s raining, snowing, or blowing a gale - to be honest it could be doing any of these in January!

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Serves 2 Ingredients: Salmon fillets – 2, 150g each.

Multi coloured cherry tomatoes – 160g, halved Avocado – 1/2, halved, stoned and flesh chopped Spring onions – 3, roots removed and bottom centimetre Mango – 1, peeled, stoned and sliced.

Dried chilli flakes or a little chopped fresh red chilli (optional) Cajun seasoning - 2 tsps.

Sunflower oil for frying – 1 tbsp Lime – 1 Tacos – 4 small ones Mango chutney mixed with Greek yogurt, optional Here’s what you do: Take the fish out of the fridge about 15 mins before you want to cook it. A cold salmon fillet and a searing hot pan don’t work well!

Peel the mango using a veg peeler.

Cut a small slice from the top and the bottom and stand it on one end.

Slice down either side of the large stone in the centre of the mango

to make 2 “cheeks.” Cut each cheek into neat slices. (Look at You Tube to see how to do this neatly. The All Recipes video is very clear how to do this) Sprinkle the mango with lime juice.

Pat dry the flesh of the salmon with a piece of kitchen paper.

Sprinkle generously with the Cajun seasoning and pat down firmly.

Heat a medium sized frying pan until it’s very hot, then add a thin layer of oil.

Once the oil is very hot (shimmering) add the salmon fillets, skin side down.

Don’t be tempted to move it about or prod it.

Watch it carefully. You will see that the colour changes from dark pink to a lighter shade of pink, starting from the flesh at the bottom, which is nearest to the heat of the pan. This should take about three minutes, depending on the thickness of the salmon.

Once the colour has changed three quarters of the way up, gently flip it over.

Add the prepped mango and veg and chillies, if using, to the pan.

Sprinkle the tacos with water and put under a hot grill to warm.

Meanwhile, cook the fish for a further minute or two, until you can see the colour change all the way up.

Remove from the pan and quickly cut the salmon into strips.

Mix in with the mixture in the pan.

Add a good squeeze of lime juice.

Put a taco on each plate and divide the mixture between the 4 plates. Place a small section of the lime on each plate If liked, serve with mango chutney mixed with Greek yogurt.

Email: contact@fromevalleyvoice.co.uk

January, 2022

fromevalleyvoice

n NEWS

Star welcomes library visitors PEOPLE visiting Winterbourne library will hear a familiar voice if they use the Open Access service when the building is not staffed.

Actor and comedian Stephen Merchant, whose TV series The Outlaws was recently a hit for BBC 1, has recorded a number of announcements for the council’s library service, along with a video highlighting the importance of libraries, which can be found on the council's YouTube channel.

The Hanham-born star made the video and recordings after bumping into a manager on a visit to a local library and said he wanted to highlight the library's "power to change lives through reading".

Stephen said: "I was more than willing to support South Gloucestershire Libraries.

"The service has so much to offer – access to computers, a meeting place to connect with your community, somewhere to study and if you want to find out anything then the library is the place to go.

"But above all these great services, it’s their power to change lives through reading. I would encourage everyone to use their local library.”

A council spokesperson said Stephen had recorded "bespoke audio content" in the form of announcements for the libraries’ Open Access service, which enables users to visit the library seven days per week.

Council cabinet member for communities Rachael Hunt said: "It was really kind of Stephen to record the announcements and the video.

"We want our libraries to be welcoming places, and having a wellknown friendly voice with a very recognisable local accent is brilliant.

"Hearing his voice will bring a smile to our users' faces – even when he tells them that the library hours are ending for the day!"

The open Access scheme allows people to access most libraries in South Gloucestershire when staff are not on duty, between the hours of 8am and 7.30pm.

The council says more than 100,000 visits have been made using the system since it was introduced.

During lockdown libraries increased online services and made visits to more than 450 people who could not leave their homes.

The service has been returning to normal over the past few months.

To hear Stephen, just visit any South Gloucestershire Library and ask the staff about registering for the Open Access service to use the libraries seven days a week.

To view the video, visit youtube.com/watch?v=BGpI7ApzsqI For more information on libraries visit www.southglos.gov.uk/ libraries.

Library updates, page 26

25

Mouse nest find is first this century A HARVEST mouse nest found in Frampton Cotterell is believed to be the first in the village for nearly 25 years.

The nest was found at Frampton End by David Hanks of the Frampton Cotterell Nature group, who says it is the first evidence of the species to be recorded in Frampton since 1997.

The harvest mouse is The harvest mouse nest found in Britain’s smallest rodent Frampton Cotterell. and the only mammal in the country with a prehensile tail, Picture: David Hanks which can grip.

It is also the only British mammal to weave intricate nests above ground out of grass stems, like the one David found, which they split lengthways with their teeth.

David said: "It’s brilliant that harvest mice are still present here.

"This is a priority species that requires conservation action to reverse declines in population.

"As well as harvest mice there are important populations of declining farmland birds here, including skylarks, yellowhammers, linnets, bullfinches and owls.

"Our group is surveying the area and developing a proposal for a nature reserve."

Frampton Cotterell Nature will be looking for more nests to record as part of the Mammal Society’s national harvest mouse survey.

Anyone interested in taking part should email framptoncotterellnature@gmail.com.

John Harris

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

Got News? Call Richard 0n 01454 800 120

Email: contact@fromevalleyvoice.co.uk

fromevalleyvoice

26

n WHAT'S ON January 5 Coalpit Heath WI, St Saviour's church hall, 7.45pm. Visitors welcome. Call 07935 071291 for more details.

January 5 and 20 Wellbeing Friends, WADCA, 1.303.30pm. Group for people with dementia and their carers to have tea, cake and a chat. Call 07789 662694 for more information.

January 7 Quiz night at the Crossbow, 8pm. £1.50 per person. Call 01454 772947 or email crossbowhouse@ gmail.com for more information.

January 8 Table Top Sale at the Miners Club, Coalpit Heath, 1-3pm. To book a table call 07920 145352.

Visit www.cphvh.co.uk, Facebook or email coalpitheathvh@gmail.com for more details.

January 11 Mothers Union, St Saviours Hall, Coalpit Heath at 2pm. Variety of speakers. Call Mary Head on 01454 887870 or email mary. head@blueyonder.co.uk for more information.

January 11 Great Western Society talk: A Broad Gauge Journey – Part 3, Exeter to Penzance, presented

www.winterbournebarn.org.uk January 28 and 29 CPR and defibrillator training at the Miners Club, Coalpit Heath Village Hall – 7pm on Friday, 11am on Saturday. To attend email Sue at westerleighpc@gmail.com or leave a message on 07367 787883 with your name and a telephone number so that numbers attending

by Brian Arman at BAWA, 589 Southmead Road, Bristol, 7.30pm.

Meeting open to all, no admission charge but a donation of £3 is suggested to help defray expenses.

Call Dave Winter on 01454 324230.

January 19 Frampton Cotterell & District Local History Society meeting, Zion United Church, 7.30pm. Talk. £4. Members free. Email secretary_ fcdlhs@yahoo.com for more details.

January 21 Bingo at the Crossbow, 8pm. £1 for 5 games and 50p for snowball.

Call 01454 772947 for more details.

January 26 South Gloucestershire Mines Research Group talk by David Barrie: Re-discovering old lead mining methods. Miners Institute, Badminton Road, Coalpit Heath, 7.30pm. Non-members welcome - £2 each. Visit SGMRG Facebook page for more details.

January 27 Fused glass craft workshops, Winterbourne Barn, 10am or 1.30pm. Join Sarah Aumayer from Mydsomer Studios for one of her popular two-hour fused glass workshops and make your own unique items or jewellery or ornaments. Booking essential at

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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.

Winterbourne library news WINTERBOURNE Library activities for January 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 January 8.

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.

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 library is open and staffed on Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday from 10am to 5pm, and on Saturday from 9.30am to midday, with Open Access between 8am and 7.30pm on other days.

More information is available online at www.southglos.gov.uk/ librarychanges.

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January, 2022

fromevalleyvoice

27

n MESSAGE FROM AVON & SOMERSET PCC

How much more should we pay for policing? officers as part of Operation Uplift AS your PCC, I am responsible for but this is not enough to manage setting the amount of money that inflationary pressures, like pay residents – you – contribute to rises for police officers. local policing through the council The Government has told tax, known as the precept.

PCCs that they can raise the It’s that time of year again precept next year by £10 for an where PCCs up and down the average band D household. A £10 country will need to make a increase, approximately 83p per decision whether or not to month, would mean any savings increase the precept, and the that still need to be made would impact this will have on local be less likely to impact frontline people. services.

Before making this decision, I If the policing part of the want to hear from communities council tax is not increased, and find out your views about the force would have to make this potential increase. So, I significant savings, resulting in a have launched a survey asking if reduction of services that would you would be willing to pay an impact our communities. increase in the policing part of As your PCC, I have to balance the council tax. the challenges facing policing Why is an increase needed? with local people’s views in order Local policing is funded by a to best resource an efficient and combination of Home Office and effective police service that can other grants, as well as council keep people safe. tax contributions. In 2022/23, However, I know that any the Home Office grant funding WB Generic AW.qxp_Layout 1 15/09/2020 21:14 Page 1 bills is increase in household is increasing to fund additional

felt by local people. This is why I want to ensure everyone has the opportunity to tell me their thoughts and opinions before I make any decision regarding an increase.

The survey can be completed via the PCC website at www. avonandsomerset-pcc.gov.uk/ about/police-tax-survey/ If you need a paper version please contact the team on 01278 646188.

I’m sure many of you will be shopping online over January to make the most of the New Year sales. I want to take a moment to remind you to take extra care when shopping on the internet and ensure you do not fall victim to online shopping fraud.

We need to ensure that criminals do not take advantage of our online shopping habits and, if a deal sounds too good to be true, it probably is.

There are numerous ways

With Police and Crime Commissioner Mark Shelford online shoppers can protect themselves online including: using a payment method that offers protection such as a credit card, using a strong separate password for your email account and watching out for phishing emails and texts.

More advice on how to stay safe online can be found on Action Fraud’s website.

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Email: contact@fromevalleyvoice.co.uk

28

fromevalleyvoice

January, 2022

n COMMUNITY NEWS Coalpit Heath WI

Frampton Cotterell WI

DECEMBER’S meeting was a lot of fun and enjoyed by all who came.

We had a Christmas table centrepiece floral demonstration, which looked stunning when completed, along with easy ideas on how to decorate a large candle with foliage (with a top tip on how to make use of the elastic bands left behind by the postman) and finally how to make a garland for the mantelpiece.

We are very fortunate to have a florist as one of our members and are extremely grateful to her for passing on some of her tips.

Another one of our fabulous members provided some crafting resources so that those who wished could decorate a bottle with string and beads and finally add some sparkly lights for a festive touch. All the completed bottles looked very effective and very individual.

Members also enjoyed an American supper, with mulled wine, while the raffle prizes were drawn and Secret Santa gifts were collected. The Xmas raffle, as ever, had some beautiful hampers and many other prizes for the festive season.

We were pleased that our carol concert was able to take place and, despite the stormy weather, there was a good turnout. It was lovely to share poems and carols again. The collection raised £124 which will be shared between the Air Ambulance and St Saviour’s church.

Despite a challenging first part of the year, it has been fantastic to have had meetings back together since August. We have a full programme of events planned for 2022 and look forward to meeting again in the New Year, and welcoming any newcomers.

At our first meeting in 2022 we welcome Trevor Carter, Storyteller of the Year, then on February 2 we have silver jewellery with Sarah Tucker and Clair Armstrong is coming along in March, to talk to us about Paul’s Place.

If you fancy coming along and trying us out, you would be most welcome.

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

Please check our FaceBook page for any further information and updates.

Caroline Johnston

AT this year’s AGM we were delighted to vote in our new committee and president, Jan Moore.

Jan has been a committee member for many years and is a very popular choice for the role.

Our previous president, Rosey Simpkins, stood down Emma Britton after seven years of fantastic service to the group, which has been much appreciated.

Rosey was presented with a large bouquet of white flowers to thank her for her time and commitment to the role of president.

December’s Christmas Bingo night went down well, and member Diane Powell was presented with a huge festive hamper as the winner of this year’s raffle.

We’re now looking to the new year ahead, with initial diary dates for the 2021-2022 year as follows: January 25: Emma Britton (ex-Radio Bristol) - From Radio Shows to Funerals and Weddings. This is a members only event as seats are limited.

February 1: New Year 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.

June: Group theatre trip to see Mamma Mia at the Bristol Hippodrome Watch this space and our Facebook page for confirmation of future event dates and more details. In the current circumstances, these may still be subject to change.

Under normal circumstances, visitors and new members are welcome to our monthly meetings at St Peter’s Hall, 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 get in touch via our Facebook page. Special interest groups meet separately, including a book club, craft group, choir, skittles and darts teams.

Village Action – Window Fun is back!

IT'S time to think about this year’s free Window Fun in Frampton Cotterell and Coalpit Heath.

This year's theme is 'hobbies', so absolutely anything goes!

All sorts of fun shapes and silhouettes can be painted or cut out in card and put on your window. Why not brainstorm some ideas and make it a family activity?

Tissue paper or paints are good to bring your design alive.

You decide whether to make it quick and easy or more complicated – both are very effective.

Turn on a lamp or light to illuminate your window at dusk (a timeswitch might help) and witness the pure magic.

Trail dates when windows should be lit are the February half term holiday week plus a couple of days: Sunday February 20 to Tuesday March 1. The displays are best viewed when it's dark.

Trail maps will be available after February 14, online from the Village Action Facebook page or website, at www.villageaction.org.uk, or from the Brockeridge Centre. Our thanks to the Brockeridge Centre for their help.

For free entry, be sure to send your postcode and first line of address

by January 31 to Village Action, by email at framcottva@hotmail.co.uk or filling in the entry form printed with this article and handing it in to the Brockeridge Centre, Woodend Road. Call 01454 864442 for details of opening times.

Village Action

To advertise, contact Richard on 01454 800 120

Window Fun Trail – Hobbies Theme Sunday February 20 – Tuesday March 1 2022 Frampton Cotterell & Coalpit Heath 1st line of address:

Postcode:

Please return entry form or send details by 31st Jan 2022, either: email: framcottva@hotmail.co.uk or hand in to Brockeridge Centre, Woodend Road (Call 01454 864442)

Email: contact@fromevalleyvoice.co.uk

fromevalleyvoice

January, 2022

29

n SPORT

Frampton Cotterell Cricket Club's 1926 line-up.

The squad in the 50th anniversary year, 1974. Current chair Victor Cater is in the back row, third from the left

Cricket Club looks forward to century FRAMPTON Cotterell Cricket Club is making plans to celebrate its centenary.

The club has been playing at The Park, off School Road, since 1924 and is looking to mark the anniversary with a series of celebrations.

Club members are calling on local people to share their memories of the club throughout the decades.

Committee member John Hughes told the Frome Valley Voice: “We have started conversations with Frampton

Cotterell Parish Council, seeking their support as our landlord in running special events throughout the 2024 season.

"We have just started making plans and would welcome any pictures and stories that local people may have about the cricket club during their lifetime.”

Club chair Victor Cater is hoping for a memorable centenary summer.

He said: “For our fiftieth celebrations we had a week of cricket. We need do something

more to celebrate this significant milestone.”

The club has three adult teams in the Bristol and District League, and provides junior cricket in both hard ball and soft ball formats.

Mr Hughes said: “League cricket is an open sport, not dependent on gender and available to 13 year olds and above, once they are ready.

"Anyone interested in joining as a returner to cricket or a new beginner is welcome; this is a great time of year to join a

cricket club, as there are indoor nets during the beginning of the year, in preparation for outdoor cricket leagues, which start in May.” New players are welcome to attend a free first session at the club's pre-season net practice.

Anyone with memories of the club over the years they would like to share, or who is interested in getting involved, can contact the club via its website framptoncotterell.play-cricket. com/Aboutus.

Richard Drew

Frampton Cotterell CC in 2020.

Got News? Call Richard 0n 01454 800 120

Email: contact@fromevalleyvoice.co.uk

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January, 2022

n SPORT

Fram flying high after big win over Dings FRAMPTON Cotterell RFC's success continues, with great numbers turning out on weekends and at training.

The first team sits third in the Gloucester Premier division and recorded an excellent victory over Dings Crusaders 2nds 36-5, running in six tries, which followed a 47-8 win over Coney Hill the previous week.

Fly half Lew Oakley was the stand-out player in both matches, scoring a hat-trick of tries in each one.

Special mention has to be made of another colt who has made his First team debut – Charlie Hill. Fram 2s and 3s are also performing well and getting teams on the field, when many clubs are struggling.

Both sides currently sit fourth in their respective leagues.

A mention also for Paul 'Rocco' Whitehead, who is leaving the club in the New Year for a new life with his family in Poland: he enjoys cabbage and eggs too much!

A stalwart of the club who came up through juniors and has played for all three teams at Fram, he will be sorely missed by all.

Mike Weaver

Louie Stiles in action for Frampton Cotterell 2nd XV in their win over Old Bristolians

Kendleshire wins junior golf league JUNIOR golfers at the Kendleshire in Coalpit Heath are celebrating after winning the Bristol and District Junior Golf League.

The league has 15 golf courses who participate every year.

The Kendleshire played the semi finals against Long Ashton at their course on October 31, securing a place in the final against Saltford.

The final was played on neutral ground at Lansdown on November 28.

All of the Kendleshire players had to give a high number of shots away, totalling 41. The Kendleshire Juniors nevertheless secured victory, winning 3 1/2 to 1 1/2 on an extremely cold and windy day.

The team was led by 15-year-old Ethan Holway, who has been voted Junior Club Captain at the Kendleshire for 2022 and has also been appointed Under-16 Gloucestershire Golf Union county captain for the year.

Ethan's dad Matt said the league win and

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Kendleshire's winning junior team: Elizabeth Robbins, Lily Oswald, captain Ethan Holway and Edison Butler. Also on the team but not pictured was Robyn Bailey. captaincies capped a "tremendous year" for Ethan, a Colston’s School pupil who has been playing at the Kendleshire since the age of four and was "extremely proud" to be voted the club's junior captain.

Matt said: "Ethan has worked hard throughout the year. Now playing with a

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handicap of 1.5, he has had a great season, with an exciting next year to look forward to.

"He has supported the club since an early age, and this year was invited to start playing for the men's third team, where he has just received the end of year award as player of the year.

"He is extremely honoured to also be selected to captain the U16 GGU county squad for 2022, and can’t wait for next year to start."

Ethan will be supporting two charities during his year as club captain, the Kendleshire Kids Foundation, which is based at the club and supports disadvantaged young people who have had adverse childhood experiences and trauma, and the National Autistic Society South Gloucestershire.

Matt said: "Ethan’s two younger brothers, Oakley and Luca, are autistic and with his passion to always help them he continues to support these charities, which mean a lot to him."

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