Frome Valley Voice September 2023 by Fromevalleyvoice

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September, 2023 Issue 119 FREE EVERY MONTH IN WINTERBOURNE, FRAMPTON COTTERELL, COALPIT HEATH, IRON ACTON & WINTERBOURNE DOWN

Cricket triumph A youth cricket side is celebrating after winning their league, following an unbeaten season. PAGE 29

We're good to go! STUDENTS from Winterbourne Academy sixth form are ready to move on to the next stage of their education after "excelling" in their A-levels. Exams round-up: Pages 4&5

Villages brace for school run jams PEOPLE living in the Frome Valley are facing longer jams on the roads when schools go back, as extra traffic starts using the area's diversion routes. Commuters heading from Yate and surrounding villages into Bristol have faced long delays since the A432 Badminton Road bridge over the M4 was shut in July. Communities along diversion routes have seen queues of traffic streaming through country lanes,

and dangerous driving by impatient motorists. While measures to try and control the traffic have been introduced by South Gloucestershire Council, the authority has refused requests to reopen a banned turn residents believe could help alleviate traffic. And more cars could be using the roads after a school bus service was axed. Turn to page 3

Country lane 'ruined' by lines NEW double yellow lines in a tiny hamlet near Hambrook have been criticised for “totally ruining” a picturesque country lane. PAGE 6

Vandals stop play A LIVING nature feature planted by children in a play area in Frampton Cotterell has been vandalised for a second time. PAGE 7

Phone waits rise PATIENTS say problems reaching the area's surgeries on the phone are getting worse. PAGE 9

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

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

Complaints Despite our best efforts, we sometimes get things wrong. We always try to resolve issues informally at first but we also have a formal complaints procedure. If you have a complaint about anything in Frome Valley Voice, contact the publisher using the details below. We aspire to follow the Code of Conduct of the NUJ (National Union of Journalists), which holds journalists to a high standard of behaviour. Further details of the complaints process can be found on the Voice website here, or can be obtained by contacting the Publisher. PUBLISHER’S NOTE: Frome Valley Voice Voice is independent. We cannot take responsibility for content or accuracy of adverts, and it is advertisers’ responsibility to conform to all relevant legislation. We cannot vouch for any services offered. Opinions are not necessarily those of the editor. Frome Valley Voice is distributed each month to local residents. If for some reason you do not get a copy, please get in touch or collect one from local pick-up points. Feedback is welcomed, call Richard On 01454 800 120 or richard@fromevalleyvoice.co.uk

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September, 2023

n NEWS

School opening delayed THE opening of a brand new primary school in Winterbourne has been delayed. South Gloucestershire Council is spending £11 million on the project to replace all of the existing Elm Park Primary School buildings in Nicholls Lane demolished and replaced by modern low energy buildings next door, on what was previously the staff car park. How the new school buildings will look. When building work got underway last year, the council said it expected the first phase of the project to be open in time for pupils to start using the new 210-place school from this September, after which the current school buildings would be demolished in the summer and a second phase of landscaping and external works carried out. The council expected the whole project to be "fully completed in time for Christmas". However a council spokesperson said it was not possible to give a date for the new school building to open as the Voice went to press. The Voice understands it is unlikely to be ready before next year. The council says the new school is being built to 'Passivhaus' environmental standards, to be highly energy efficient, insulated and ventilated, and have a very low carbon impact, with its own solar panels and heating from air source heat pumps. There will be no gas in the kitchen. Similar school projects elsewhere in the district have suffered delays, including Frenchay Primary School and two schools in Lyde Green.

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September, 2023

n NEWS

Council struggles with 'serious problems' from bridge closure From page 1 National Highways unexpectedly closed the bridge, next to the Wick Wick roundabout where the A432 meets the Avon Ring Road, after defects were found in late July, cutting off the main route from Yate, Coalpit Heath and Frampton Cotterell to Bristol for vehicles. A routine safety inspection had found "accelerated deterioration and cracking" in the concrete. The agency says that while it hopes to speed up work on the top side of the bridge, the closure will last until at least Christmas. Residents in Westerleigh complained of road rage and dangerous driving by vehicles diverting through the village because of the closure. South Gloucestershire Council put temporary traffic lights at the junction of Henfield Road and Westerleigh Road, and has now installed regular traffic lights at the site, which are due to go live from September 4. Coalpit Heath and Westerleigh Parish Council chair Rob McCullough said: “The measures already put into place already have helped some of the bigger road safety issues that we highlighted previously but they have inevitably knocked on elsewhere - from new rat runs and HGVs using the wrong roads to aggressive driving, speeding and some people still aimlessly driving all the way up to the road closures - so this is a situation that needs further monitoring. “We are grateful to our ward councillors and the various officers at SGC for the speed of action and good communication." More parents could soon be using the roads after a bus service taking children from Bristol and Downend to Winterbourne Academy was axed, and another was rescheduled to start picking up children before 7am. The parish council is calling on South Gloucestershire council to reopen the right turn on the A4174 at the Hambrook junction further west, to allow ring road traffic to reach Winterbourne

The temporary traffic lights at the Henfield Road/Westerleigh Road junction will be replaced by permanent lights from September. that way – but the council has refused. In a statement on its website the council said: "The right turn at Hambrook lights on the ring road will remain closed as the arrangements in place are the most efficient way of moving traffic through the junction along the ring road." Yate Town council is encouraging anyone affected by the road closure to keep giving feedback on problem areas, and suggest solutions. Town and district councillor Chris Willmore, who is South Gloucestershire's cabinet member for infrastructure, said the authority was in National Highways' hands and was trying to ensure the agency funded solutions suggested by residents. She said: "They understand the serious problems it is causing and are as keen as we are to get to a solution. “So far they have been very helpful, as they realise the complexity of the problems.” A National Highways spokesperson said the number one priority was safety, and the bridge needed to stay closed until it completed survey work to investigate the damage. The spokesperson said: "The works involve identifying potential defects using digital scanning and then drilling into the structure to check the condition of the post-tensioning system using a range of techniques." Work to inspect the underside of the bridge finished in mid-

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August and inspectors are now working on the topside. A council spokesperson said: “We appreciate this work is causing significant disruption which is frustrating for road users and residents. “We are constantly reviewing the signage and road use around the diversion route and will adapt and change if there are issues which need to be addressed." People are being urged to report issues to the council at A432bridgeclosure@southglos. gov.uk or by calling 01454 868000.

Bus routes changed

BUS operator First has rerouted one service and introduced another after the closure of the Badminton Road bridge over the M4. The Y1 was rerouted as an

emergency measure through Church Road in Frampton Cotterell and Bristol Road in Winterbourne. In addition to that a new Y2 service, starting in North Yate, will run on the same roads from September 3. Both buses will head through Hambrook to the ring road and M32 on their way to Bristol - the Y2 will not serve Downend and Fishponds, as a previous service of the same name did before it was axed in April last year. Coalpit Heath and Westerleigh Parish Council chair Rob McCullough said the new route bypassed nearly all of Coalpit Heath. He said: "Unfortunately this gave no time for consultation or feedback and it is clear that a route taking in Badminton Road past the church, turning into Beesmoor Road and then Heather Avenue/Park Lane would serve Coalpit Heath and Frampton Cotterell much better. "The Parish Council are trying to lobby First to consider changing the route as they have disadvantaged many just at a time that people could be looking to use public transport more." The Y6 service has also had its timetable revised and route changed in Bristol, to serve Southmead Road, Henleaze Road, Westbury Road, Whiteladies Road, Park Street, Centre and Bristol Bus Station.

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fromevalleyvoice

September, 2023

n EXAM RESULTS

Strong GCSE results after 'challenging circumstances' LEADERS of Winterbourne Academy say this year's GCSE candidates showed "skill, ambition and determination" to record a "strong" set of results. The government announced there would be a "return to pre-pandemic grading" this year, after three years of changing adjustments due to the pandemic, and said results would be comparable to 2019. But this year's GCSE candidates have had years of disruption to their education because of the lockdowns during the early part of their time at secondary school. Nevertheless Winterbourne Academy staff said this year's GCSEs showed more progress than those who sat the exams in 2019. Head teacher Jenny Cartwright said students "needed particular resilience and effort to prepare for exams in the context of their covid-19 interrupted learning from earlier years". Among the "standout individual academic performances" the school Olivia Lane - eight 9s

The wait is over for two Winterbourne Academy GCSE students Alice Tanner - seven grade 9s highlighted were: determination to succeed. These health and social care, 81% in Joel Tew - nine GCSEs at efforts paid off." In benchmark media and 93% in sport. grade 9 and one at grade 7; results for English and maths, Mrs Cartwright said: Olivia Lane, (eight 9s and two 74% of pupils gained at least a "Students deserve high 8s); Alice Tanner (seven 9s, one grade 4 in both subjects, with congratulations for their results, 8 and two 7s) and Anna Barlow, 53% gaining grade 5 or higher especially in the nationally Daniel Rawling, and Sophie in both. challenging circumstances. Winter-Alsop, who all achieved The school also highlighted "Progress for this cohort is six 9s, as well as recording nine some subjects where overall stronger than it was in 2019, 8s and two 7s between them. performance was particularly showing their commitment to The school said 35 students strong, included art, where success against the odds! gained at least one grade 9, with 86% of candidates gained at "My thanks to staff for all 65 students gaining a 9 or a least a grade 4 'standard pass', of the hard work, care and distinction*, the highest possible English language (82% ), English support which they have given grades in vocational subjects. Literature (81%), French (100%), to students to help them achieve Assistant head teacher maths (80%), music (83%), these grades.” Charlie Peake, who was in photography (92%), Spanish Dave Baker, chief executive charge of the Key Stage 4 pupils, (98%), statistics (89%) and of the Olympus Academy Trust, said: "I am really proud of the biology, chemistry and physics which runs the school, said: "It outstanding achievements of so (all 97%). is great to see the year on year many of our Year 11 students. In vocational subjects, 89% of improvements as the school "This was a fantastic candidates gained the equivalent community pushes onwards and year group with a genuine standard, with a level 2 pass, in upwards."

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fromevalleyvoice

September, 2023

n EXAM RESULTS

A-level students rise to challenge A-LEVEL and BTEC students sitting their first ever formal exams at Winterbourne Academy achieved some "fantastic results", the school says. A nervous wait for teenagers across the country ended on August 17 when this year's results were published. As for GCSEs, the government had signalled a "return to prepandemic grading" after three years of assessments and adjusted grades because of the pandemic, with results in line with the standards of 2019, the last prepandemic year. This year's A-level candidates had not sat nationally-set exams before, as their GCSEs took place in 2021 when classroom-based assessments were being carried out. The Department for Education said that as a result of changes to grading, the proportion of top A* to A grades had fallen from 35.9% last year to 26.5% this year - although this was still above the 25.2% in 2019. The number of A-levels given grade A* to B was 52.7% nationally, compared with 51.1% in 2019. At Winterbourne Academy 22% of A-level grades were A*-A and 45% of vocational grades were Distinction* or Distinction. The school said "standout

Winterbourne Academy students celebrate after picking up their A-level results and financial management. performances" in subject areas Lewis Ault (A* 3A), Warwick included 67% of grades being University, global sustainable A* or A in Spanish, 63% A*-A in development and business studies. computing, 53% A*-A in maths, Ben Aubrey (3 A*, A), Bath 64% A*-A in further maths, and University, maths. 45% A*-A in physics. Harry Bowley (2A*, 2 A) Students gained some very Lancaster University, computer strong individual results with two science. students achieving A* grades in all James Chandler (Distinction* 4 of their subjects and with a wide 2A, B). range of excellent destinations, Jake Gaunt (2A*, 2A) Bath including students with places University, computer science. at Oxford and Cambridge Olivia Gold (3A, B) Exeter Universities. University, mechanical Among the high achievers the engineering. school picked out: Mila Jefferies (A*, A, B) Bath Billy Aris (A*, A, Distinction*) University, modern languages. who is heading to Loughborough Daniel Lovick (4 A*) University to study accounting

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Birmingham University, computer science. Habiba Mahmood (Distinction*, A, B) Ella Millard (Distinction*, A*, A) Bournemouth University, adult nursing. Flynn Queenan (2 A*, 2A) Cambridge University, maths. Dexter Salt (2A*, A) Exeter University, biological sciences. Ella Staveley (A*, 2A). Kirsty Tidmus (2A*, A) Nottingham University, English. Ed Truman (4A*) Oxford University, physics. Ollie Walker (2A*, 2A) Birmingham University, dentistry. Headteacher Jenny Cartwright said students had "excelled", adding: “The determination and resilience of these students over the past few years has been inspiring to watch. "Teachers and students have worked hard together to achieve these good results in unprecedented circumstances. "Students deserve particular credit for their achievements in what has been a challenging national climate where they were sitting formal external examinations for the first time. "I am proud to see them progress to their next steps, whether this be university, apprenticeships or employment.”

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fromevalleyvoice

September, 2023

n NEWS

Double yellow lines have 'totally ruined' country lane NEW double yellow lines in a tiny hamlet near Hambrook have been criticised as “totally ruining” a picturesque country lane. The new lines were painted this summer on Moorend Road in Moorend, a narrow lane close to an ancient stone bridge over the River Frome, which forms part of the Frome Valley Walkway. The lines were painted by South Gloucestershire Council to prevent parents who were dropping off children at Hambrook Junior School from stopping on the junction of Moorend Road and Worrell’s Lane. They extend several hundred

yards down Moorend Lane, and end just by the bridge. Resident Jan O’Donnell condemned the “ugly bright fluorescent lines”. She said: “They have totally ruined the look of a picturesque, very narrow, small country lane, which is on the Frome Valley Walkway and used and enjoyed by so many people. “Understandably they do need the double yellow lines on the bend at the top of Moorend Road up by the school. “Nowhere else in the whole of the area do you find double yellow lines of this bright intensity and on such a narrow lane.” Jan said the lane was too

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The new double-yellow lines in Moorend. narrow for people to park on in any case, and said the new double yellow lines near the school were ineffective, as there is no traffic warden to enforce them and they were being ignored by parents. Another resident, Roger Good, told the Voice that people living close to the bridge were consulted, and managed to win concessions, including changing original plans to extend the lines across the bridge right into the hamlet. Roger said: “Basically we were in favour of the scheme from SGC, our only problem was the yellow lines across the bridge ending in front of our house. “Speaking with relevant people, SGC agreed to end just above the bridge; whilst not ideal it was a big improvement. The change was included in the final plan, so we were grateful.” A spokesperson for Winterbourne Parish Council said the lines were installed after “many concerns from local residents regarding the totally inconsiderate parking at school drop off and pick up times”. The spokesperson said: “A consultation was carried about by South Gloucestershire Council and as a result of that they made the decision to go ahead with the lines.” Jan says when she contacted South Gloucestershire Council,

she was told the public consultation had already taken place, and had concluded double yellow lines were required. The Voice contacted the council, which pointed to the results of its consultation into putting the restrictions on Bristol Road, Whiteshill, Moorend Road, Quarry Barton and Worrells Lane, which was completed last year. When it announced the consultation, the council said it followed discussions with local councillors and aimed "to alleviate possible obstructive and inconsiderate parking within the Moorend Road area to improve safety, access and visibility for all road users". A report showed 30 people took part in an initial consultation in 2020, with 15 supporting the initial proposals, 14 opposing them and one 'don't know'. Of the opponents, some said the length of road to be covered by lines was too long but others said it was too short. A legal notice advertising the restrictions last year received ten objections, two letters of support and seven other comments. South Gloucestershire Winterbourne ward councillors Trevor Jones and Nicholas Labuschagne wrote in support of the scheme.

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fromevalleyvoice

September, 2023

n NEWS

Vandals wreck play tunnel built by families A LIVING nature feature planted by children in a play area in Frampton Cotterell has been vandalised - for a second time. Branches of the willow tunnel at Beesmoor Road Playing Field have been snapped off and half of the supporting structure ripped up. Volunteer trustees who run the park say they will now have to decide if it can be salvaged or has to be removed. The willow tunnel has been taped off and temporarily closed after the incident, which happened on August 26. The rest of the play area remains open. A spokesperson for the trustees said replanting and repairs costing several hundred pounds had to be carried out when the willow was damaged in a previous attack. It was installed in 2021 as the last part of the play area redevelopment project, and was constructed as part of a community project led by the company that provided the new equipment. The park trustees had already used general funds to repair an earlier attack on the willow tunnel last year, and will now meet to decide what to do next. The original funding came from South Gloucestershire ‘Member Awarded Funding’ from local councillors, as well as from fundraising activities. Kate Colechin, a trustee who led the play area fund-raising efforts, told the Voice: “It’s a shame that this popular piece of equipment with toddlers has been damaged. "The tunnel really adds to the overall effect of the play area. “We operate on a really small budget and it’s really difficult to get grant funding for

Children helped build the willow tunnel during school holidays in 2021

The tunnel just after it was completed The tunnel after it was wrecked repairs to existing projects. "Any repairs will have to funded by money raised from groups that use the park such as football clubs.” The damage has been reported to Avon and Somerset police. Anyone with information about or video footage of the culprits should call the police

on 101. Built using a frame of hazel woven around with willow, the tunnel was a popular suggestion during consultations over the design of the new playground in 2015, led by the contractor Touchwood, and was the final part of the project to be completed. Local families helped to build it in 2021, having also helped to create a den frame at the park two years earlier.

Row over future of free parking FREE parking could soon be scrapped in South Gloucestershire Council-owned car parks – and a row has broken out over who is to blame. Opposition Conservatives say Labour – one-half of the new coalition administration with the Liberal Democrats – discussed introducing charges at council-run car parks at a recent group meeting of its members. Tory leader Sam Bromiley said there was "no financial need whatsoever to start charging people". But the coalition has fired back, saying the Tories disguised a line in the annual budget last February, when they still ran the local authority, that promised £5 million

of extra money for council coffers - but kept it a secret that this would be from new parking fees. The Lib Dems and Labour say they would have opposed it had they known and that they have now been left to implement charges that have been effectively introduced by the Conservatives, unless they can somehow find the money from other services. At July's cabinet meeting council leader Claire Young (Lib Dem, Frampton Cotterell) warned that the organisation needed to find £40 million of cuts over the next four years to balance its books. She said the new administration had concerns about the lack of detail in some

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of the proposed savings in the 2023/24 budget, agreed at full council in February with support from Labour while most Lib Dems abstained. The coalition says it was only after May’s local elections that they were told by officers that a vague-looking “review of income generating opportunities” in the budget to generate £5 million over three years was a review of whether to introduce parking charges. In a joint statement the two partners said: "Let it be known this was a Conservative idea.” By Adam Postans, Local Democracy Reporting Service

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fromevalleyvoice

September, 2023

n NEWS

No extra cost or discount as bin strike ends SOUTH Gloucestershire Council did not incur any extra costs from the recent strike by bin workers but is not paying contractor Suez any less for the reduced service. Around 150 members of union Unite went on strike for more than a month, from June 26 until July 31, in a dispute over pay. During the strike, kerbside recycling and green bin collections were suspended as the council and its contractor prioritised black bin collections, keeping recycling centres open and operating temporary 'deposit points' for people to take food waste and recycling. A spokesperson for the council said any extra "direct and indirect costs" incurred because of the strike were being carried by Suez, including the increase in pay negotiated to end the strike. However the amount the council pays Suez under its contract to collect, recycle and

dispose of waste is not being adjusted to account for the fact that a full kerbside collection service was not being provided for the duration of the strike. The spokesperson said: "The contract between the council and Suez, as a third-party provider, insulates the council from the cost of any pay award but there are no mechanisms within the arrangement to seek recompense for the strike action." The council said there had not been an increase in reports of fly-tipping in the district over most of the period of strike action, including an earlier oneweek walk-out from June 12 to 16, although there was "a slight increase towards the end of July". Unite members voted to strike after rejecting an 8% pay offer from Suez, which the union said represented a "significant real terms pay cut" as it was well below inflation. The union called for a 15% rise.

A proposed 9% rise was also rejected before Suez came back with an offer of 10.1%, which was accepted at the beginning of August. The strike was suspended from July 31 for the workers' vote. Unite general secretary Sharon Graham said: “Suez workers in South Gloucestershire stood firm in their union and secured a significantly improved offer. "This is a well-deserved result for them and more evidence that Unite’s focus on enhancing jobs, pay and conditions is winning for our members.” Unite members at Bristol Waste and Suez in Somerset also won bigger rises following disputes. A Suez spokesperson said: "We are pleased that we have been able to agree a solution with the union and that further industrial action has been cancelled.

"We are extremely grateful to our employees for their important work and would like to thank the residents of South Gloucestershire for their patience during this time." The contractor said it was "conscious that residents had high volumes from the suspension of the service" and said it used extra resources to catch up on the backlog and resume normal services as quickly as possible. Bulky waste collections restarted on August 14, the same date the Revive shop at Thornbury Sort It centre reopened. Asked by the Voice if penalty clauses for contractors unable to deliver a service would be inserted into the new waste contract due to be introduced in 2025, the council said it was "working to ensure a robust approach to contract arrangements".

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September, 2023

n NEWS Frome Valley Medical Centre

More GP patients report phone problems PROBLEMS reaching surgeries on the phone are getting worse, according to new figures. The annual NHS GP Patient Survey, published this summer, found that nearly two thirds of patients at Frome Valley Medical Centre in Frampton Cotterell said it was not easy to get through. The 65% of patients reporting problems was up from 45% last year, and only 19% in 2021. Most patients found it easier getting through to Yate’s West Walk Surgery practice, which includes Coalpit Heath Surgery, although the number reporting difficulties had also risen, from 23% in 2022 to 34% this year. At Kennedy Way surgery in Yate, the number saying it was not easy to get through had risen from 33% last year to 37%. While the majority of patients at all three practices still said their overall experience of using their GP surgery was good, but percentages had fallen at two of the three surgeries. Among Frome Valley Medical Centre patients, 69% said their experience was good – down from 77% last year and 94% in 2021, while 74% of patients at West Walk gave it a good rating, down from 86% last year. At Kennedy Way, overall satisfaction levels had risen to 89%, from 86% in 2022. The survey uncovered a mixed picture on the length of time people waited for appointments. At Frome Valley Medical Centre, 40% of patients were offered appointments on the day they called, up from 35% last year, with the number waiting a week or more for an appointment down from 21% in 2022 to 18% this year. At West Walk, 32% of patients were offered same-day appointments, down slightly 33% last year, while the number waiting more than a week stayed the same at 36%. At Kennedy Way, 73% of patients were offered a same-day appointment, the same number as last year, while the number waiting a week or longer was also unchanged at just 5%. Most other patients waited between a day and a week, although some people responding to the survey couldn't remember the length of their wait. Nationally, 71% of people said they were happy with their surgery, down from 72% last year, while 50% found it easy to get through on the phone and 33% were offered same-day appointments, with 25% waiting a week or more. The survey was carried out by Ipsos MORI with NHS England, based on just under 760,000 responses to questionnaires sent out nationwide between January and April. A spokesperson for Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire Integrated Care Board, which funds GP services, said surgeries in its area "are above the national average in many areas of the survey", including overall experience of appointments and the performance of healthcare professionals. The spokesperson added: “We also recognise there are areas for improvement. We are continuing to share learning between practices about what works well, and are working to support practices to deliver high-quality services to patients."

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fromevalleyvoice

n NEWS

September, 2023

Parents demand school bus rethink PARENTS say their children face "potentially dangerous" journeys to school after a bus service was axed. Around 700 people have signed a petition calling for a rethink of the decision which is seeing major changes to the school's bus services. Last month South Gloucestershire Council said three services that had been under threat - the 460 from Coalpit Heath, the 427 from Frenchay via Hambrook and the 459 via Emersons Green and Lyde Green - had been saved with a new subsidy. But two other services - 458 from Fishponds via Downend and the 936 from Patchway, Bradley Stoke and Little Stoke did not receive any funding and have been cancelled. The remaining services are being 'stacked' - with the same bus taking pupils on the 459 to the school before turning round to do the 460 route in the morning.

Pupils of Winterbourne Academy and their families at a stop where school buses will no longer call, in Downend. It means the 459 will leave Emersons Green Science Park at 6.50am to reach the school at 7.35am - and any delays would have a knock-on effect on the 460. Frustrated parents are calling on operator Stagecoach, South Gloucestershire Council, which funds buses to the school, and Metro Mayor Dan Norris, who has overall responsibility for

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transport, to take immediate action to reverse a decision which they say "jeopardises the safety of our children" and could also add to congestion on the roads. They have warned that more parents could end up taking their children to school by car, adding to the problems on roads in the area after the closure of the Badminton road bridge over the M4. The 458 started at Straits Parade. South Gloucestershire Council has told families they can use the 459, which it is subsidising. But the nearest 459 stop to Straits Parade is more than half an hour's walk away, and the morning bus passes it before 7.20am. Many of the children from Emersons Green, Lyde Green and Downend who use the buses attend Winterbourne Academy because they were unable to get places at Downend School. The academy has recently increased its admission numbers to accommodate extra pupils because of continued delays in

building Lyde Green Secondary School. Parent Claire Virtue, who started the petition, said: "This decision not only jeopardises the safety of our children but also poses a significant threat to our environment due to increased traffic congestion. "Without access to reliable public transportation, many students are now forced to walk long distances, along unsafe roads or rely on private vehicles for their daily commute." A council spokesperson said: "The stacked solution was developed in partnership with the school as a way of maximising the impact of available funding to retain as many of these services as possible. "The school is making arrangements to supervise the children who arrive early, and this was the only way to continue to provide a bus via Emersons Green and serve the northern part of Downend." A council spokesperson said that WECA, as the local transport authority, "is responsible for bus services in the region" and the council did not have "unlimited resources to fund all the services at risk". However a spokesperson for Metro Mayor Dan Norris said was the council's responsibility to provide free transport "if the school attended is the nearest appropriate one" and three miles or more away. Parents Simon Turner, from Frenchay, called on the council and Metro Mayor to stop blaming each other and "sit down like grown-ups" to find a solution.

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standing in Kingswood, fromevalleyvoice September, 2023 n NEWS oucestershire Local Elections.

Potholes 'worse every year' POTHOLES in South Gloucestershire are getting “a little bit worse each year” council chiefs have admitted. South Gloucestershire Council would resurface roads “in an ideal world”, but one new cabinet member said that the government does not pay councils enough money to keep all the roads across the district in good condition. The problems are particularly affecting unclassified roads, councillors heard during a meeting of the scrutiny commission at South Gloucestershire Council on July 26. Mark King, head of transport and waste services at the council, said: “We struggle like a lot of other local authorities in the country to maintain our network to a reasonable level. Because we have a declining network, and mainly on our unclassified network, we do suffer with potholes and defects. “Over the winter is bad obviously, from October through to February that’s when we have our peak period. We have to supplement the gangs and we have additional gangs on site to keep the network safe, and that’s what we aim to do. In an ideal world, we would resurface those roads and they would be more robust and resilient, but unfortunately we’re not in that situation and it’s a bit of a firefighting exercise.”

ars ecial as a es.

Cheltenham

Leigh Ingham Until May this year the council was run by a Conservative administration. But after local elections, a new cabinet has taken power with a coalition of Liberal Democrats and Labour councillors. Labour cabinet member for communities Leigh Ingham said: "The pothole situation is a symptom of decades of underinvestment by governments across the local road network, which has become particularly acute in the last 13 years. "We only spend about a third of what we should be spending to maintain at a standstill the quality of roads we have at the moment. “Things are getting a little bit worse each year."

nding for election to ent all the residents of about holding regular surgeries, ous community groups who play served as Councillors previously, ngswood Town Council.

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fromevalleyvoice

September, 2023

n NEWS

See cycle Tour in South Gloucestershire MORE details of the visit of some of cycling's top riders to South Gloucestershire for the Tour of Britain have been revealed. Stage Seven of the race, on Saturday September 9, will start in Tewkesbury and finish at Gloucester Docks. On the way the peloton is predicted to pass through Chipping Sodbury High Street at about 1.53pm, Station Road in Yate about three minutes later and head from Iron Acton to Cromhall at around 2pm to 2.10pm. The cyclists could arrive up to 15 minutes earlier or later, depending on the weather and other conditions which could make their pace faster or slower: organisers say the earliest they are likely to reach Chipping Sodbury is 1.35pm, Yate is 1.38pm and Rangeworthy is 1.46pm. The riders are expected to reach Gloucester some time between 2.54pm and 3.43pm. The stage was originally intended to be part of last year’s Tour of Britain, but was cancelled following the death of Queen Elizabeth II. Organisers say it will be "an undulating route to really test the riders on their penultimate day and will showcase the incredible scenery and landscape that Gloucestershire has to offer", covering 170.9km (106.3 miles) of road and climbing 2,200 metres on the way. South Gloucestershire Council leader Claire Young said: "We are excited to welcome the Tour of Britain to South Gloucestershire this September.

The route passes through Chipping Sodbury, Yate, Iron Acton, Rangeworthy and Cromhall "The event is a great way to bring communities together to spectate as the riders pass through our countryside, towns and villages and will also showcase our wonderful area to its global audience of millions. "The excitement of the race has the potential to inspire more people to get out on their bikes in the local area and enjoy the benefits of cycling and travelling sustainably." Race director Mick Bennett said: "We know how much people in Gloucestershire were looking forward to our planned stage in 2022, so, a little later than expected, we’re excited to be heading to this beautiful part of Britain!" South Gloucestershire Council

Last year's winner Gonzalo Serrano wins Stage Four. Picture: SWPix.com is reminding anyone driving to see the race to plan in advance and leave plenty of time for journeys. Traffic around Yate and

Chipping Sodbury could be heavier because of diversions following the closure of the A432 Badminton Road bridge over the M4.

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fromevalleyvoice

September, 2023

n ADVERTISING FEATURE

Chipping Sodbury Motor Company Opens Its Doors to SsangYong Chipping Sodbury Motor Company has recently added SsangYong to its successful family-owned business, which also operates as a Ford Main Dealer and Fiat Authorised Repairer. Its purpose-built SsangYong and Ford showrooms are ideally located just off the High Street in Chipping Sodbury, only 10 minutes from junction 18 of the M4 and just 40 minutes from Bristol. The team at Chipping Sodbury Motor Company was keen to work with a manufacturer that offers a range of models to meet the needs of local customers and SsangYong’s multiple award-winning range of

SUVs and pick-ups, together with their 5 year warranty, does just that. Drivers can choose from the Tivoli, a compact SUV offering style and versatility, the eye-catching Korando, the spacious SUV with a bold look, the Rexton, a premium SUV that delivers capability and comfort with 7 seats or the award-winning Musso pick-up that has the largest load-bed on the market. Visit the showroom on Hatters Lane in Chipping Sodbury to discover the range of SsangYong and Ford vehicles. Alternatively, view the range of new and preowned vehicles at www.csmc.co.uk.

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Fuel consumption figures for the SsangYong range in mpg: Combined 30.2-45.2. CO2 emissions: 158-245 g/km. All Ssangyong vehicles come as standard with a 5-year/ 100,000-mile warranty except for Korando e-Motion, which attracts a 7-year/90,000-mile warranty. †6.9% APR representative Hire Purchase (HP) and Personal Contract Purchase (PCP) finance minimum deposit 20% available, at Chipping Sodbury Motor Company until 30th September 2023 through SsangYong Financial Services, a trading name of Northridge Finance, BT1 5LR. Finance subject to status, availability, and terms and conditions. Applicants must be 18 or over. Offer only applies in the UK (excludes Channel Islands & I.O.M). Offer may be amended or withdrawn at any time. SsangYong Motors UK Ltd is a credit broker not lender. Commission may be received. The 6.9% APR representative HP & PCP offer is available independently of the 3-year service plan package. Alternative finance options available. Each SsangYong vehicle comes with a 1-year RAC breakdown cover as standard. This offer includes an additional 2-years RAC breakdown cover above the 1-year standard, totalling 3-years, free of charge valid until 30th September 2023. This offer includes the vehicle’s first three scheduled services (every 12-months or by vehicle’s mileage, whichever comes first) and the vehicle’s first MOT, free of charge valid until 30th September 2023. *The 3-year service plan, 3-year RAC breakdown cover, and 1-year MOT is administered by EMaC, Electra Way, Crewe CW1 6GU. This offer is available and redeemable at Chipping Sodbury Motor Company until 30th September 2023. For full details, terms and conditions, please contact Chipping Sodbury Motor Company or visit: ssangyonggb.co.uk/contents/ssangyong-offers.

Got News? Call Richard 0n 01454 800 120

Email: contact@fromevalleyvoice.co.uk

fromevalleyvoice

September, 2023

n NEWS

Big turbines could be on horizon SEVEN sites in South Gloucestershire could become home to large new wind turbines. Ahead of the expected lifting of a ban on onshore wind, local planners are exploring which areas in the district could best be used to generate low-cost renewable energy. South Gloucestershire Council is drawing up a new Local Plan, a wideranging document which sets out where new developments should be built over the next few years, which includes energy generation. The council will consult the public on the Local Plan this winter, and it will come into effect in 2025. A draft map showed seven potential areas where they could be allowed, including two to the north of Thornbury near Shepperdine and Oldbury Naite, one to the south between Pilning and Almondsbury, and another to the east, near Wickwar and Charfield. The others are east of Little Sodbury, between Tormarton and Acton Turville, and running along the M4 south of Chipping Sodbury. Opposition councillors warned building wind farms could be “controversial” in some parts of the district, during a meeting of the council's scrutiny commission on July 26. Severn Vale Conservative councillor

Matthew Riddle said: “In the Local Plan consultation so far, there was a map showing safeguarding areas for wind turbines, which is probably a little bit more controversial in the Severn Vale than solar panels. "Two of those sites that were identified for safeguarding had already gone through the planning process and been refused at appeal. Is it right that those sites are still safeguarded?” Building onshore wind turbines was effectively banned by the government in 2015, although late last year ministers appeared to signal they would lift that ban. The government recently consulted on changing rules in its National Planning Policy Framework to make new onshore wind farms much easier to build — but is reportedly now backtracking on these plans. Labour has promised to lift the de facto ban, if it wins a general election. The new Local Plan will be less detailed than usual, due to a failure of politicians to agree a region-wide version last year. Liberal Democrat cabinet member for planning and regeneration Chris Willmore said: “The next draft will have a strong policy commitment, as you would expect from the current administration. "It’s not necessarily

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A map shows the areas where sites could be considered going to identify sites. The abandonment of the Spatial Development Strategy last May means that getting that big picture protection in place is the most important thing." The work on the new Local Plan began before the Liberal Democrats and Labour took power in South Gloucestershire, and staff are now quickly reviewing the plan to check it matches the policy ambitions of the new administration, including renewable energy generation. By Alex Seabrook, Local Democracy Reporting Service

Email: contact@fromevalleyvoice.co.uk

fromevalleyvoice

September, 2023

n WINTERBOURNE BARN

Heritage Open Days THERE will be free access to Winterbourne Medieval Barn as part of the national Heritage Open Days in September. The theme is 'Creativity Unwrapped' - come and see how medieval craftsmen created this amazing timber roof in 1342. We will have other examples of medieval creativity on display, including artefacts kindly lent by Bristol University and examples recreated by local school children. There will be a chance to decorate your own illuminated letter or mosaic if you wish during the open days, which take place on September 9 and 10 from 11am to 4pm each day. A small selection of drinks and snacks will be available from the pop-up café. Next door St Michael's church, with its medieval wall paintings and sculptures, will also be open for Heritage Open Days from noon to 4pm.

The Barn and Church are closely linked by the patronage of Sir Thomas de Bradeston in the 1300s. Looking ahead, the barn will hold another all-day event, Orchard Harvest Day, on October 8 from 11am to 4pm. A full programme of very varied activities throughout the day, including dance performances, music from the Frampton Shantymen and Bygonz minstrels, a fascinating display about the historic River Severn Salmon Fisheries, local crafts, skills, and produce stalls, special kids' activities and more. It is preceded by a talk on local orchards and cider production on September 21 at 7pm, when Tim Andrews of Orchard Revival in North Nibley cover both past and present times. Craft Workshops coming up include a fused glass workshop on September 22 from 1-3.30pm

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Wall paintings at St Michael's and pottery taster sessions on October 14, from 1-4pm. All events can be booked online at Ticketsource or

via the Barn website, www. winterbournebarn.org.uk. Louise Harrison

Email: contact@fromevalleyvoice.co.uk

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fromevalleyvoice

September, 2023

n NEWS FROM THE METRO MAYOR

Birthday Bus passengers enjoy the benefits OVER the Summer, I’ve been meeting some of the first ‘Birthday Bus’ passengers - West of England residents enjoying free bus travel throughout the month of their Birthday. You can sign up too at www.birthdaybus. co.uk. I have to say, people are really buying into the benefits of this scheme. People like Helen, who works in a chocolate shop. I got chatting to her a few weeks ago and she told me she’s been using her Birthday Bus pass to travel to work when she’d usually take the car. She said it’s given her a reason to leave her car at home and try the bus, and she’s really loved helping the planet. Or people like Pauline, who told me Birthday Buses was a really good way to help ease a bit of financial stress during this frightening cost-ofliving crisis. The verdict is clear, so for those who haven’t already done so, please do apply for your free month of birthday travel at www.birthdaybus. co.uk today, and tell your friends and family too. There’s nothing to lose and lots to gain! When I was coming up with the idea for Birthday Buses, I knew we needed a plan that

ticked lots of boxes. There are so many crises at the moment, with the cost-of-living crisis and the environmental emergency always at the forefront of my thinking. Birthday Buses ticks that cost-of-living box, with a whole month of bus travel for free. That’s one twelfth off your annual transport bills. It’s also about tackling the climate emergency. A huge 44% of our carbon emissions currently come from transport, with fewer than one in ten regional commutes made on public transport. Shockingly, there are 300 preventable premature deaths due to air pollution every year. That’s why we need new ideas to encourage people out of their cars and onto public transport. Like many regions, our buses are struggling to match pre-pandemic performance. While most people who used to use buses are doing so again, they are travelling less. Delve in and this makes sense. It reflects changing demand, as working from home practices displace commuting patterns and many face-to-face meetings, like GP appointments, move online. But with people making fewer journeys, there is less fare income coming in. That means cuts, and a downward spiral.

Metro Mayor Dan Norris writes for the Voice Other places have tried free travel for a day or a week, but this is a whole month. Why? Because if you try our buses, I think you might like them - maybe even love them. And after a whole month, you might never look back. We have to try something new. Just throwing taxpayers money at subsidising buses isn’t sustainable. You spend the money and it runs out. And then you need more. Instead, I’m determined that we invest to encourage new passengers to use our buses. It is the only long-term solution to grow a thriving bus network. So to Helen, Pauline and especially to you: many happy returns - and singles!

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fromevalleyvoice

September, 2023

n WINTERBOURNE & FROME VALLEY ENVIRONMENTAL GROUP

Pollinator Pathway project launched WE are delighted to share news of our new project, the Frome Valley Pollinator Pathway. This partnership project brings together Winterbourne and Frome Valley Environmental Group with the Frome Valley Growing Project and aims to link people and land along the Frome Valley area. Thanks to a £25,000 grant from the West of England Combined Authority, the group will start work boosting pollinator habitats between Frampton Cotterell in the North, through to Tuckett’s Field in Frenchay, which has already received funding from the Bee Bold Pollinator Awards. This biodiversity corridor will be developed through five wildflower sites, including a new Withy Wetland at the Frome Valley Growing Project, off Swan Lane, a wildflower meadow at Whiteshill Common

in Hambrook, the gardens of Winterbourne Library, and the school grounds of Elm Park Primary School, Frampton

Cotterell Church of England School, and Hambrook Primary School. The school and community

engagement activities also aim to encourage pollinator-friendly planting to get our gardens buzzing locally. Students from Winterbourne Academy will get the chance to gain qualifications in growing, boosting their green skills for future careers. Community events will also be hosted at the ‘Pollinator Hub’ at the Frome Valley Growing Project, as well as community trails being developed over the next year. This exciting new project will provide pollinator habitats, enhance biodiversity, provide learning opportunities and skills development, and improve wellbeing for our local community. If you would like to help support the project with time or funding, please email winterbourneenvironmental@ gmail.com Laura Fogg-Rogers

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fromevalleyvoice

September, 2023

n LOCAL MP

Best of luck for the new school year IT'S that time of year again when the suitcases are swapped for pencil cases, and the sandy beaches are traded in for the school run, as our children head back to school for a new academic year. I would like to congratulate all those students who received their results over the summer, and the best of luck to everyone ahead of the new school year. The good news for our local schools this year is that school funding in South Gloucestershire is set for a record boost and will be increased to the highest ever level. The Government have also released some figures which show that South Gloucestershire schools are due a significant funding boost for the 2024-25 academic year, with school funding reaching almost £60 billion, and here in the Thornbury and Yate constituency, record funding will reach £61,381,240.

For local secondary schools such as Brimsham Green, Castle School, and Yate Academy, the change in total funding will see increases of 11.2%, 6.9%, and 4.6% respectively. Meanwhile, the per pupil funding for our rural primary schools will also see increases, including schools such as Cromhall Primary (+10.5%), Iron Acton CofE (+6.5%), Charfield Primary (+3.8%), Hawkesbury Primary (+3.5%), The Ridge Primary (+3.3%), and Watermore Primary (+2.8%). Ensuring South Gloucestershire schools receive their fair share of funding has long been a priority in my positive plan for education, which I have raised with government ministers time and time again. Significant rises in high needs funding have also been allocated. Funding for children and young people with special

educational needs or disabilities here in South Gloucestershire, we will receive a record amount £51,230,394 for high needs – although of course there is more to do. This news follows work which is currently underway on the Two Bridges SEND Academy, which is set to open in September 2024. The special needs school will offer 112 spaces for pupils from nursery age to sixth form and will provide specialist support for children with autism and severe or multiple learning difficulties. Nationally, there have been further positive announcements regarding schools. Altogether 88% of schools in England are ranked as good or outstanding; we have seen significant rises up the international league tables in reading and maths as a result of focused and evidence-based reforms.

Luke Hall MP writes for Thornbury Voice

In England, there are also now 27,000 more teachers than there were in 2010. Around 12,000 young people in England will also benefit from a wave of new free schools, which includes Cabot Sixth Form, a 16-19 school set to open Bristol in the next three to four years. Free schools are funded by the government, however they are run by other organisations such as academy trusts and universities. We are incredibly lucky to have so many amazing schools in our area, and my thanks to all our local head teachers, teachers and support staff for all they do.

n COMMUNITY NEWS

Community conversations with councillors WINTERBOURNE councillors are holding a series of 'community conversations', with an open topic format to complement other ways to contact us on specific issues. The first meeting was held on August 14 in the library and led to an enlivened discussion of various ideas for improving the community. Comments were made about the benefit of the Y1 bus diversion for Winterbourne, and the need to campaign for this to continue - a petition has been set up to sign at chng.it/npyyBtw6ph - along with ensuring school buses for the term. The congestion and poor parking/idling around school pickup times was discussed, as well as wider ways to make the streets more communityfriendly, with 20mph zones and street furniture. It was seen as important to develop use of local resources,

Bus services were a hot topic at the first 'community conversations' meeting in August. such as the recreation ground behind the Winterbourne Academy, the school swimming pool that is to be reopened for the public, the library, the nature reserves and play parks. Actions to make a visit to Flaxpits Lane shops more enjoyable were talked about,

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community energy projects and the benefits of volunteer groups were mentioned with an idea for community awards to highlight contributions locally. Thanks to all who attended, as it is only through listening that we can get future action to be most beneficial.

If you have any comments or views on these and other topic areas, or want to influence future actions and priorities in Winterbourne, then please let us know or do come along to the next meeting, which takes place on Monday September 11 at 5.30pm in the library. The atmosphere is very informal for these open topic discussions of the community with councillors. Another way to raise issues is to ask a councillor to come and listen to your community group's wants and needs, whether you are a formal group or just a few street neighbours. Contact peter.a.bruce@gmail.com or the clerk@winterbournepc.co.uk for more information. Note that you are also welcome at parish meetings to raise any issues in a more formal environment. Peter Bruce

Email: contact@fromevalleyvoice.co.uk

fromevalleyvoice

September, 2023

n FRAMPTON NATURE

Black Rocks Nature Trail WE have created a nature trail around Black Rocks, a great area to explore, with interesting wildlife at any time of year. This is a circular walk of around one mile, starting and ending by The Globe. The walk runs alongside the River Frome and through meadows, farmland and woodland. The route includes stiles and uneven ground which can be muddy. We've numbered some of the species spotted on the trail and where they have been seen. A leaflet with further details and photos of many of them is available free from the Brockeridge Centre. Let us know what you find!

water’s edge.

1. Slow worms, goldcrests and bats at the church.

11. Whitethroat, chiffchaff, dunnock and long-tailed tits breed in the bramble scrub. Goldfinch, greenfinch, chaffinch and bullfinch; spotted flycatchers on passage.

2. Little egrets feed by the bridge. 3. Grey wagtails catch insects at the weir. 4. Blackcaps sing in spring. 5. Kingfishers; damselflies in summer.

7. Fungi including horse mushrooms, parasols, waxcaps and rare dung bird’s nest. 8. Redwings and yellowhammers in the hawthorns in winter, warblers in the summer. Redstarts and willow warblers seen on passage. 9. Dippers in the shallows; butterflies including white-letter hairstreak. 10. Great spotted woodpecker, treecreeper and song thrush in woodland. Siskins in alder trees in winter.

12. Over 100 species of wildflower. Butterflies and moths include common blue and chimney sweeper. Kestrels, sparrowhawks, buzzards, red kites, peregrines and hobbies all seen.

13. Pineappleweed and scarlet pimpernel 6. Otter spraint found on prominent rocks. WB Generic ads 2023 AW.qxp_Layout 10:33 Page 4 alongside footpath. Moschatel and goldilocks buttercups by 1the30/03/2023

14. Wide variety of trees in Centenary Field. Woodpeckers, fungi, butterflies including small copper and marbled white. David Hanks

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fromevalleyvoice

September, 2023

n RECIPE OF THE MONTH

Spicing up September I THINK that September is one of my favourite months. It can often be warm and very pleasant, but you’re not disappointed if it isn’t - it’s just a lovely bonus. It's unlike the summer months, when you are expecting good weather and then it’s either too hot, like some this year, or miserably cold and rainy, like the others! So with all of that in mind, I’m hoping for a pleasant spell in September, and even the chance of a final BBQ of the season, for those people who love one. My recipe is for lamb koftas, which are like a spicy Middle Eastern burger. You can serve koftas stuffed into a flatbread with the mint relish, salad or suggested veg - see Cook’s Tips for more ideas. Rice would also go well with these different 'burgers'. Of course, if the weather lets you down, you can always grill them or pop them in the oven.

Lamb Koftas This makes a light lunch served with the mint relish, shop bought naan - or have a go at making your own chapati (recipe next month). If you’re trying to be really good, use

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.

Here’s what you do: Preheat the oven to 200C, 400F, Gas Mark 6 Put all the ingredients, except the egg and breadcrumbs, in a bowl.

minced turkey instead of lamb, as it's lower in fat and calories. Serves 2

Ingredients: Extra lean minced lamb (or turkey) -250g (8oz) Red onion-finely chopped - half Garlic clove – 1, finely chopped Ground ginger - ½ tsp Mild chilli powder – ½ tsp Cumin – ½ tsp Coriander seeds, crushed - 1tsp Chopped mint – 1tbsp Free range egg – 1, lightly beaten Breadcrumbs – 25g (1oz)

Add the egg (you may not need the whole egg so add about half first of all, then add more if necessary), to bind the ingredients together. Season with salt and pepper to taste and, using your hands, mix all the ingredients thoroughly. Divide the mixture into 8 balls. Roll each ball in the breadcrumbs and then shape into a sausage shape Either place on a baking sheet and cook for 15-20 mins, until cooked through. Or grill or BBQ, for about 7 mins on

each side or until cooked through.

Mint relish to serve with the koftas Ingredients: Onion - 1 small , or ½ large, finely chopped Tomatoes – 2, finely chopped Cucumber – de-seeded and grated coarsely. Very low fat yoghurt – 150g pot Fresh mint - 4 tsps, chopped Lime – juice of half a fruit Mix all the ingredients together in a small bowl and cover. For best taste, allow to chill in the fridge for at least half an hour.

Cook’s tip: Roasted aubergine and vine tomatoes make a great accompaniment to the koftas. Once cooked, koftas can be frozen for up to a month.

n COMMUNITY NEWS

Crossbow Singers AS for many of us, Crossbow Singers took a break in August to relax, rest our vocal cords and reflect on the year so far. Our friendly and enthusiastic band of 40 locals from Frampton Cotterell and Winterbourne have continued to cement our friendships and love of singing through 2023; it’s a good time to reflect upon what makes it such a special group. The choir has a wide range of experience and talent. We have a handful of founder members who sang with the much-loved and recently departed Ruth Hunt, the choir’s first musical director when we began 40-plus years ago. These members can always be relied upon to

know exactly how the different parts should be sung and are happy to coach and mentor newer members. We have quite a number of musicallytrained members, who have previously and currently perform on stage in amateur theatre productions, semi-professional choirs, church choirs or solo artists in their own right. They bring musicality and character to our choir and can always be relied upon to take on solos, duets, and character pieces, an example of which was the coming of Elvis to this year's summer concert! The rest of our jolly crew is comprised of people who just love singing. Joining a choir brings them joy, relieves the stress of everyday life for a couple of hours and allows them to learn a new skill amongst friends. Finally, Crossbow Singers could not function without our fabulous pianist Mary and talented musical director Carolyn. Each and every rehearsal they make us

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believe we can make do justice to the music we are learning, are patient when we are struggling to get to grips with a piece of music and make us laugh when we get things wrong (that happens a lot!). As September begins, and we start practising for our Christmas concert, our unique blend will again work together to create some magical sounds. Louise Lewis

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September, 2023

n COMMUNITY NEWS Winterbourne Down & District Horticultural Society AFTER a four year gap, the Winterbourne Down and District Horticultural Society were delighted to be able to hold our annual show again at the Greenfield Centre, Winterbourne, on August 19. Although entries were down on previous years, it was a good display and of a high standard, particularly considering that this year has been a difficult one, weather-wise. The judging took place in the morning and in the afternoon the public were able to come and view the exhibits. The raffle offered lots of interesting prizes, and was well supported. The photographic section made a colourful display, along with the home crafts, including cakes, quiches, bread and jams. At the end of the afternoon the cups and awards were presented by the president of the society, Joan Kent. The ‘Best in the Show’ award went to Sue Jenkins, for her tomatoes. Gill Parker

Yate and District Friendly Skittles League

A MIXED skittles league is looking for new teams and players. Yate and District Friendly Skittles League has been organising games in the area for more than 40 years. Described as a friendly mixed skittles league, matches take place at local venues including Coalpit Heath Cricket Club, The Miners, Frampton Cotterell & Coalpit Heath Royal British Legion Club and Creda in Yate. Match days vary but each fixture starts at 8pm. Each team of 12 must have at least three women players. As well as competing for a trophy the teams also raise money for good causes. The next season starts in October and runs until March, with a big social event planned for the Miners on November 25. Anyone who would like to join in, either as an individual or a team, can call league chairman Keith Beesley on 07775 461244.

Citizens Advice VOLUNTEERS are needed to help people struggling with debt,

Produce and flowers at the annual show

Winterbourne Down Methodist Church YOU are invited to attend our social gathering (HUB) at Winterbourne Down Methodist Church, every Tuesday from 2pm to 4pm. Enjoy tea, coffee, cakes, games, music and

benefits, housing and employment issues. At Citizens Advice South Gloucestershire we're looking for people our team of volunteer advisers, a rewarding role which includes training to help with a vast range of problems. We've seen demand for help with cost-of-living issues shoot up and are currently helping ten times as many people needing referrals for foodbank vouchers as before the pandemic. We are looking to take on six new trainee generalist advisers to join our team. The role involves giving advice to people both face-to-face and over the telephone - initially based at our office in Yate. It’s a very rewarding role. The majority of our volunteers stay with us for years and really enjoy meeting other people in the office, as well as supporting clients. We want to reach out to all communities to make sure we reflect the diversity of South Gloucestershire. It’s open to anyone, including those at university, on a career break or recently retired. Anyone who would like to volunteer should email Amanda Wood at bureau@sgloscab.cabnet. org.uk to ask for an application form. Emmanuelle Claverie Lead supervisor

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23 friendship, especially for those who live on their own. The number of people aged 65 years and over has increased to nearly 12 million; 18.6% of the population. In 2021, 3.3 million people aged 65 years and over were living alone in England and Wales, 30.1 % of the older population. Living alone can be one of the major causes of suffering from anxiety, stress and depression. Therefore, we need to adjust our attitude towards getting old and make some changes; in order to live longer and enjoy life. In fact, recent research from the English Longitudinal Study of Ageing (ELSA) indicates that as long us we enjoy good companionship, health, and have sufficient money, then we are likely to be happier at 70+ than at any other time. Looking after yourself now and developing the right, positive attitude to life is your best bet for enjoying a full life in old age. The secret to living well in old age was down to three things: having a sensitive diet; exercising daily and maintaining a positive attitude to social life. You are most welcome at Winterbourne Down Methodist Church for socialising and for making friends. Rev Samuel Uwimana

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September, 2023

n WHAT'S ON September 3 n WALKS FOR SINGLE PEOPLE. Meet at 11am, Avon Valley Railway, Bitton Station, for a circular walk passing Lower Culleyhall Farm, Golden Valley & Upton Cheyney, returning via Clay Hill & Ryedown Lane. More information from Sandie, 0786 659 7104. September 20 n CHARITY BINGO NIGHT at The Brightwell, Wheatfield Drive, Bradley Stoke, 7pm (doors 6.30pm). Tickets £8 per person, including six prize bingo games, two cash games and ‘silly bingo’. Bring your own drinks, nibbles or picnic - all welcome. Tickets from www. thebrightwell.org.uk/events. September 21-23 n COLLABORATIVE PRODUCTIONS PRESENTS CALENDAR GIRLS, Rangeworthy Village Hall, supporting charities BUST and Blood Cancer UK. Evening performances 7.30pm, Saturday matinée 2.30pm. Over-16s only. Tickets £12 (£10 concessions) via TicketSource on 0333 666 3366 (fees apply) or in person with cash at the Rose &

Crown, Rangeworthy. September 23 n FAMILY AND LOCAL HISTORY FAIR, BAWA centre, Southmead Road, Filton, 10am-4pm. Free event hosted by the Bristol & Avon Family History Society. Talks, tips and advice from regional family history groups on researching your ancestors. More information from www.bafhs.org.uk, BAFHS Facebook page or fhfair@ onmicrosoft.com. September 30 n APOLLO WIND BAND CHARITY CONCERT, Winterbourne Community Centre, Watleys End Road, 8-9.30pm. Evening of music in support of The Brightwell, a local charity supporting people affected by neurological conditions such as Multiple Sclerosis. Bar open from 7pm. Tickets £10 from Margaret on 01454 773370 or online at tinyurl. com/esbkbd9k.

REGULAR EVENTS n MONDAY: WINTERBOURNE FLOWER CLUB now meets at WADCA in Watleys End Road,

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Winterbourne. Meetings are on the second Monday of the month between 2pm and 4pm. Call 01454 776753 for details. n FRAMPTON SINGALONG meets on the first Monday of the month at Crossbow House,School Road, Frampton Cotterell, 2-3.30 pm. Singalong led by The Jays and Joy. £5 including refreshments.Carers free. All profits given to UNICEF for children affected by war and other recognised charities. Contact Hilary on 07515 351813 for more details. n MONDAY: FRAMPTON SINGALONG meets on the first Monday in the month at Crossbow House, School Road, Frampton Cotterell, 2-3.30pm. Live music from Singalong led by The Jays and Joy. £5, refreshments included. Carers free. All profits given to UNICEF, for children affected by war, and other recognised charities. More details 07515 351 813. n MONDAY: WINTERBOURNE DOWN LADIES PROBUS CLUB meets at 2pm on the third Monday of each month at All Saints Church Hall, Winterbourne Down. Talk followed by refreshments, £3.50 visitor, £25 annual membership. Call 01454 773647 for more details. n TUESDAY: WINTERBOURNE DOWN METHODIST CHURCHDrop in for free cup of tea and chat or play board games, every Tuesday from 2-4pm. n TUESDAY: SUNRIDGE GOLF CROQUET CLUB meets on Tuesday and Thursday afternoons in Coalpit Heath and has players at all levels. Learn how to play, club equipment is available to use. Contact croquet@ wilko.eclipse.co.uk or call 07977 201440. n TUESDAY - CRAFTING: Come and join our group of crafters on the first Tuesday of every month in the Red Brick Annexe, Manor Hall, Coalpit Heath, BS36 2TG from 2-4pm. Bring your own project. £4 per session: Kay 07792189276. n OPEN DOOR at Winterbourne Down Methodist Church, Down Road, every Tuesday 2-4pm. Social gathering - enjoy tea, coffee, cakes, games, music and friendship, especially for those who live on their own. n WEDNESDAY: GENTLE SHIBASHI TAI CHI AND RELAXATION, accessible to all, 10.30-11.30am and 11.45am12.45pm, Winterbourne Medieval Barn, Church Lane, Winterbourne. Contact Jenny on 07855 560257or jksmith@blueyonder.co.uk for more

information. n WEDNESDAY DOWNEND FLOWER ARRANGING CLUB meets at 7.30pm on 1st & 3rd Wednesday each month from September to June at Lincombe Barn, Overndale Road. Call Genise on 0777 245 1217 for information. n THURSDAY: WINTERBOURNE WINDS, a friendly amateur wind band who play a wide range of music including pop, musicals and classical, rehearse at Frenchay Village Hall from 7.40-9.30pm. New members are welcome. For more information email winterbournewinds@yahoo.com. n THURSDAY: COELIAC UK LOCAL CAFÉ MEET-UP, every third Thursday of the month, 10-11.30am, at Iron Acton Garden Centre cafe. Join us to share experiences of living gluten free. For more details email volunteering@coeliac.org.uk. n THURSDAY: CROSSBOW CAMERA CLUB meets every Thursday evening at 7.45pm at Crossbow House, School Road, Frampton Cotterell. Small friendly group who enjoy looking at and taking pictures. Call 0789 026 6650 or just turn up for free taster sessions. n THURSDAY: HAMBROOK MEN’S PROBUS CLUB meets on the 1st and 3rd Thursday of each month, 10am-noon at Whiteshill Chapel, Hambrook, with a speaker at each meeting. Friendly group, new members welcome. For more details call the secretary on 01454 778250. n FRIDAY: FROME VALLEY ART GROUP meets at the Greenfield Centre, Winterbourne each Friday 2-4pm or 7-9pm. Thriving club with demonstrations and workshops from visiting professional artists. More details online at winterbourneart.uk or email fromevalleyartwinterbourne@gmail. com. n SUNDAYS: GROUP GUIDED RELAXATION SESSIONS Manor Hall, Coalpit Heath, from 8pm - 8:30pm ran fortnightly on Sundays. A welcoming and cosy place to just switch off and be guided into blissful relaxation. Contact Julie from Awaken Me awakenmehypnotherapy@ yahoo.com or visit http://www. awakenmehypnotherapy.co.uk

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fromevalleyvoice

September, 2023

n THOUGHT FOR THE MONTH

Change is painful, but necessary DURING the summer we spent the first part of my annual leave with friends in the Western Lake District. On one of our first walks we decided to park at the western end of Loweswater and climb Burnbank Fell. Our agreed route was to zigzag up through Holme Wood, viewing the spectacular waterfalls that make up Holme Force. Having climbed 200 metres, we encountered a felled larch tree across our path. A little further along we met another such tree trunk. Further along again, we met a group of tree trunks lying in our way, before the path became littered with them. Much scrambling followed, until we found our route was closed due to forestry work and that we needed to follow a temporary path diversion, with loose topsoils

on thin ledges before steep stops. After several slips as the soil gave way, we were frustrated and angry. Further along, at 280 metres above sea-level (much later than it should have been), we encountered a sign explaining why the diversions had been put in place. The trees had been felled because of a spread of dieback in the wood. However, rather than cut and clear, the land managers had been required to pause their work because of the nesting season and the activities of red squirrels. This was why a change of path and official route was necessary. As grumpy as we were, and concerned that it needed some urgent improvements, the change to the route was necessary for those things living permanently on the fell.

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In John’s gospel, Jesus is said to have described himself as a vine, with all his disciples being the branches. Probably mindful of changes in his own early Christian community, the author of John describes Jesus discussing the need to prune the vine if it is to survive (possibly a reference by the author to those Christians who had left ‘the way’ in the early persecutions). Whether this was Jesus's own priority in image is unclear, but it highlights an important truth: for living things to thrive, often wellmanaged change is needed. As we pass through this season of change, as leaves fall and the nights draw in, I wonder what changes we need to confront ourselves with? Perhaps it’s unhealthy habits or, even worse, unhealthy attitudes. Perhaps it’s an over-dependence

Rev Ben Thompson Curate, Fromeside Benefice

on something or someone we need to prune from our lives. Perhaps, it’s simply recognising that we are part of something bigger and that if we want to thrive rather than wither, we need to embrace our place on the vine of humanity.

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fromevalleyvoice

September, 2023

n COMMUNITY NEWS Winterbourne Evening WI

Winterbourne Evening WI members at the Cromhall Water Recycling Centre AS we do not have a meeting in August, and the national resolution for WIs this year is for clean rivers and water, several of our members enjoyed a day out at the Cromhall Water Recycling Centre and wetlands. We were given hi-viz jackets and then had a tour of first the pond with the raw sewage and then on to the large pond with wonderful clean water, which was then canalled to the wetland centre, which is wonderfully landscaped and home to many fish birds and small animals. Afterwards we had slides, coffee and biscuits in Cromhall Village Hall and were told the things we could do to help our rivers, such as having water butts in the garden and not flushing anything down the toilet except the '3 Ps' - pee, paper and poo. We then went to Rangeworthy, for lunch at the Rose and Crown. Our next meeting is on September 14 at 7.30pm, at St Michael's School, Linden Close - all welcome. Diana Woodman, President

Coalpit Heath WI

IF you thought having one baby was hard work, try triplets, with the added pressure of a sibling older by just over a year! Rob Jones spoke about his crash course in doing just that, having recently retired from a

job as a detective in the police. In the early days, he explained that they were helped out by Norland Nannies in training, who were just amazing. Once his wife was back at work, Rob was left in charge. His stories of juggling four little ones were very entertaining. We could all picture the challenges described. We look forward to meeting Rob again for a very different talk. We have now had our book club up and running for a year and it is still very well supported. Members bring a book recommendation and one of these is chosen at random for us to read. The first one was This is Going to Hurt, by Adam Kay. We look forward to reviewing it in September. Our day trips and theatres group, is planning trips to Westonbirt and Tetbury, and a walking tour of St Nicholas Market. If you fancy coming along and seeing what we have to offer you would be most welcome. We meet on the first Wednesday of each month in St Saviour’s Church Hall at 7.45pm. Search for @WICoalpitHeath on Facebook or @coalpitheathwi on Instagram for further information and updates. Our next meeting on September 7 is a talk on hats, with Alex Stanbrook, followed by Stephanie Sydney of M.I.F soap company on October 4. Caroline Johnston

disappearance of Susie Lamplugh, although he has never confessed directly to any of his crimes. For our social get-together this month, we’re meeting for a luxury cream tea at Tortworth Court, which we’re all looking forward to. Other confirmed events for the coming months include Confessions of Lawyer, a talk by Carole Darling, on September 26, and a visit from Wendy Howse of Tropic Skincare on October 24. We have many other events/socials lined up for the coming year, including visits to the theatre, local gardens, other group trips and plans for a murder mystery evening on November 8. We also have a monthly lunch club, open to all members and held at a different local venue each time. Visitors and new members are welcome to our monthly meetings at St Peter’s Hall on School Road at 7.45pm, on the fourth Tuesday of the month. There is a charge of £4 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, which also has more details of future events. Speaker Rob Jones

Frampton Cotterell WI

IN August, we tend to meet up socially as opposed to having a speaker. For our July talk, ex-police officer Rob Jones came along to give us a fascinating talk entitled Crime and the Serial Killer. Rob was part of the investigation team on the Shirley Banks murder case, back in the late 80s and it was really interesting to hear about his work and experiences first hand. John Cannan, who was eventually caught and sentenced for this awful crime through circumstantial evidence, is also strongly suspected to be the infamous “Mr Kipper” associated with the

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fromevalleyvoice

September, 2023

n COMMUNITY NEWS Floral Friends of Frampton

AS summer begins to slide gently towards autumn, the planters and hanging baskets around the village are still flourishing, as is the Beesmoor border. Weekly maintenance by FFF volunteers includes dead-heading, weeding and watering (despite all the rain, it is still necessary to do this), helped by the parish council topping up the reservoirs in the larger planters. We hope you continue to enjoy the display. Once autumn truly arrives, work will begin on replenishing the planters with colourful winter bedding. Our Autumn Fayre will take place on Saturday October 28 at the Brockeridge Centre.

The parish council will be awarding prizes for their Scarecrow Trail at 11am. Refreshments and cakes will be available. Floral Friends are entirely funded by donations and we would like to thank all who have supported us recently by making donations, which are very much appreciated. Donations can be made either in person or online to Floral Friends of Frampton, Lloyds 3098-97, account number 70582363. If you can help our maintenance work in any way, we’d love to hear from you. Please email us at floralfriendsofframpton@gmail.com.

Winterbourne Ladies Probus Club

Over the last few months, the Club has enjoyed three events. In May there was a curling game at St Saviours Church Hall, Coalpit Heath. In June we celebrated our 25th anniversary with a celebration lunch, and there was a coach trip to the National Memorial Arboretum in July. All events were well supported and enjoyed by all. We are now planning a skittles match in September and hopefully another coach trip later in the year. If you are recently retired and looking to socialise in a friendly group, you would be very

welcome at Winterbourne Down Ladies Probus Club. We meet at 2pm on the third Monday of each month at All Saints Church Hall, Winterbourne Down. Meetings start with a short club business session followed by a talk from a visiting speaker. We then have tea and biscuits and time for a chat before the meeting ends at 4pm. Visitors can attend five meetings per year for £3.50 per meeting or become a member for £25. For more information, please call 01454 773647. Sue Humphreys

Fingers & Frets

A friendly group of fretted string musicians (currently mandolin, guitar, banjo – other instruments welcome) is seeking new members. Fingers & Frets rehearse most Monday evenings between 7.45pm and 9.45pm at St Barnabas Church Hall, in Warmley. We have a varied repertoire. More information about us can be viewed on our website: fingersandfrets.wordpress.com If you are interested and would like more details please contact June, our Musical Director, on 07815 841069.

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fromevalleyvoice

September, 2023

n MESSAGE FROM AVON & SOMERSET PCC

Together we can make policing better I HAVE launched a campaign called Together We Can… to raise awareness of the work being done by my office to improve, change and challenge policing. Together We Can… is a call to action for residents to get involved in policing to ensure our communities are safe. The campaign is also an opportunity to highlight how the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner (OPCC) continues to work for local people. My Police and Crime Plan, launched in 2021, includes four priorities – preventing and fighting crime; engaging and supporting communities and victims; leading the police to be efficient and effective; and increasing confidence in the criminal justice system. Many people are not aware of the work that the OPCC carries out and, crucially, when they can turn to us for support to address issues or concerns they have with policing.

We work hard to tackle so many varied issues that may affect all our lives at some point – from violence against women and girls and racial disproportionality to fraud and anti-social behaviour. My job is to hold Avon and Somerset Police’s chief constable to account and to keep striving for policing that serves everyone equally, so we all feel safe and supported in everyday life. For more information about Together We Can… and my police and crime priorities visit the OPCC website, www.avonandsomersetpcc.gov.uk. I would also like to take the opportunity to highlight the recently-opened preventing victims fund. The fund is an opportunity for any Avon and Somerset-based group that already provides services to victims of crime to apply for a grant of up to £20,000. The Preventing Victims Fund is being delivered in partnership between the OPCC, Somerset

Community Foundation and the Quartet Community Foundation. The fund aims to complement groups providing services to victims of crime, enabling them to explore different approaches that could prevent people from becoming victims in the first place. This prevention focus is one of the Police and Crime Plan key priorities. Finally, I urge local people to remain vigilant over an emerging scam involving fake emails purporting to be from mortgage lenders. It has come to my attention that Action Fraud received 538 reports in just a two-week period relating to these emails that claim to offer limited-time deals to low-rate mortgages. Heartless criminals are taking advantage of people’s concerns relating to mortgages to lure them into phishing scams. The websites set up by criminals disguise themselves as a trustworthy source in order to steal personal and financial data for their own gain.

With Police and Crime Commissioner Mark Shelford We need to let as many people know that such scams are circulating, to ensure we prevent people from falling victim. Remember if a deal sounds too good to be true, it probably is. If you have doubts about an email or message, contact the organisation directly before sharing any personal or financial information. Do not use the numbers or addresses in the email – use the details from their official website.

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fromevalleyvoice

September, 2023

n SPORT

Rain hits Frampton's season League triumph for U15s FRAMPTON Cotterell Cricket Club started this season with a report to the Voice to say that our preparations had been impacted by rain. Unfortunately the last six weeks or so have been very similar. All three senior teams are unlikely to be promoted or relegated as a result, so it is not the worst of seasons. Frampton Cotterell 1st team on the field. The youth teams Picture: Hannah Marie Photography have managed to grow, develop and enjoy the year which can only be seen as a success. We hope we get more luck as the club looks forward to its 100th year in 2024! We already have plans to celebrate and raise funds for permanent nets (including a raffle with prizes such as signed prints from Jack Russell). We would love to have the local community involved. If you would like to help or offer sponsorship, please get in touch at framptoncotterellcc@gmail.com. Tom Howell

COALPIT Heath Cricket Club's under-15 side ended a perfect season by winning the Gloucestershire Youth Cricket League U15’s Performance League. The GYCL has two performance leagues with teams from all across the county. After an unbeaten run in their league fixtures and a win against 'Stoke Bishopston' in the semi-final, Coalpit Heath took

on Golden Hill in the final on August 6. A standout performance from all the players saw them crowned worthy winners, and the best in the whole county. The U15s have gone from strength to strength this season, unbeaten in both the Bristol Youth Cricket League and the GYCL. Michelle Clark

The title-winning team

n WINTERBOURNE LIBRARY NEWS WINTERBOURNE Library is launching a new coffee afternoon every Friday from 2-3pm, starting from September 1. On Friday September 29 there will be a special coffee time for Macmillan Coffee Morning. A tombola and cakes will be available all day – any donations of prizes and cakes welcome. Story time begins again on September 1, every Friday from 9.30-10am. Lego club meets on September 2 and 30, from 10am to 11am, for children of all ages - all children must be accompanied by an adult. Regular Rhymetimes take place on Wednesdays, 9.30am10am. Suitable for babies aged up to 18 months. An adult craft group meets on September 9 and 16, from 10am-noon: join a friendly group of crafters to do your own work and chat – refreshments available. Computer Thursdays take place during term time enrolment with SGS College is required. For further

information contact Cindy on 0117 909 2296 or cindy. corbett@sgscol.ac.uk. A digital champion can help people get online, use a PC or phone. The volunteer is available on Fridays from 10amnoon: booking is essential. The library has new upgraded PCs which are free to use, free ancestry access, free books to borrow and free eBooks, eAudio and eMagazines available online. There are free jigsaws and children’s toys and games to use, and a beautiful enclosed garden to enjoy. The library is staffed on Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday from 10am-5pm, and on Saturday from 9.30am12.30pm. Open Access is seven days a week between 8am and 7.30pm. For more details of events or bookings, visit the library, email Winterbourne.library@ southglos.gov.uk or phone 01454 868006. More information is available online at www. southglos.gov.uk/libraries or from library staff.

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September, 2023

n SPORT

Bears link

Preparing for the Prem BRISTOL & West Hockey Club's Men’s 1st Team finished the local summer league in a brilliant second place. The team narrowly missed out to Bristol Indians on goal difference, by six goals, after both teams finished on 10 points. The locally-named ‘Calcutta Cup’ saw Bristol Indians crowned champions this year for the first time, after a 4-1 victory over B&W. B&W still lead 2-1 in the overall standings since the competition was branded three years ago. Pre-season preparations have begun for the men’s 1st team ready for life in the West Premiership for the first time. The lads will face a tough test away to Swansea HC for their first game. The Performance Squad is already being put through its paces by the coaches, with pre-season friendlies against Old Bristolians, Gloucester, Penarth and Team Bath Buccs, in a busy schedule that should prepare them well for the gruelling season ahead. Our hosts, Mangotsfield School, have invested in two more brand new hockey goal nets, which means we now have four goals in great condition. B&WHC continues to grow: we now field six

The Bristol & West and Bristol Indians teams with the 'Calcutta Cup' men's and four women's teams, ranging from highly competitive to social levels of the game. The club has a great junior set-up for all ages, and also offers great social hockey in a mixed environment. As well as this, we also boast a competitive indoor hockey team: the men’s 1sts finished third in the West area recently. If you’re interested in getting involved, please visit www.bandwhc.org.uk for more details. Harry Bryant

Jake Darby

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FRAMPTON Cotterell RFC Juniors will be a Bristol Bears Connexion community club this season, for a second year in a row. We were one of ten clubs who took part last year, growing to 16 clubs this year. Club Connexion is a local club partnership providing coach education workshops, player development camps, priority bookings, player appearances and much more - we will also 'adopt' a Bear (watch this space for more details). This partnership will assist us in providing the best experience for the young people who join our fantastic club. We return to full training on Sunday September 3 at Crossbow. If your child is interested in getting involved in rugby, please get in touch. We are always pleased to welcome new boys and girls from under-5s to U16 to join our well established teams, with RFU qualified coaches. Contact jakedarby@hotmail. co.uk for further details.

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