Frome Valley Voice December 2014 by Fromevalleyvoice

FREE EVERY MONTH for Winterbourne, Frampton Cotterell, Coalpit Heath, Iron Acton & Winterbourne Down

fromevalleyvoice December 2014, Issue 18

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Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s on, Page 16 | Sport, Page 42

Speed limits slashed around Iron Acton Local residents have welcomed news that speed limits are to be cut on the Bristol Road and on roads in Iron Action village. Two stretches of the Bristol Road will see speeds cut from 50mph to 40mph. Meanwhile roads in and around Iron Acton will get a 20mph limit. The measures were approved by South Glos councillors at the Frome Vale Area Forum and will be implemented in the Spring. The move was prompted by a string of serious accidents, including one fatality. More; Page 7 Ready for their big moment; pupils from Frampton Cotterell C of E School prepare for their nativity performance

Winterbourne Bridge shut until spring Harcombe Hill closed for work on electrifying rail line

Page 10 Calls for safety measures near Coalpit Heath school

Concern over speed and parking near Manor School

Page 11 New life at old VMW site New business moves into Bristol Road premises

Page 12 Double figure increase in house prices Prices rise by 11.4% in 2014

Page 18 Netballers top league after stellar start Frampton enjoy early season form

Page 43

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

T: 01454 800 120

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Richard Drew

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

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December, 2014

Iron Acton Parish Hall gets cash for extension South Gloucestershire Councillors have agreed to provide £11,000 towards the cost of extending the Parish Hall in Iron Acton. Members of the Local Area Forum heard the costs of providing a larger entrance lobby is estimated to cost £37,500. The Parish Hall Committee expects to contribute a minimum of £17,500 (47%) to the project which is scheduled to commence in April 2016 after planning permission has been obtained. Tony Pullin, who chairs the Hall Committee, says the hall is very well used, attracting a minimum of 20,000 local residents each year to use its facilities. The existing lobby is too small to allow people to assemble and sit down while waiting to go into or to collect people attending events such as pantomimes, plays, and the thriving Kathyrn Hurley Dance Academy. Local Councillors Dave and Pat Hockey backed the decision stating “Iron Acton hosts many successful events that are attended by large numbers of people from a wide area – this funding boost is well deserved”.

January deadline

Local artist debuts at Winterbourne Library

Local information

France Bauduin, a feline artist from Winterbourne, has held her first exhibition and workshop at Winterbourne library as part of the Discover Festival. Visitors were invited to choose their favourite picture and one name was picked at random at the end of the exhibition to keep the picture. Lucky 13 year old, Lucy Serjent, was the winner of ‘Sleepy Heads’. She said her reason for choosing it was because she was “reading a series of books called ‘Warrior Cats’ and they just love their naps when they get time for one!”. France, who works with coloured pencils, is now hoping to hold monthly cat-drawing workshops at the library. For more information about her work, visit France’s website at www. francebauduin.webspace.virginmedia.com or email her at france. bauduin@gmail.com Warrior Cat books, suitable for older primary and early secondary age range can be found on the shelves at South Gloucestershire libraries.

Our January edition will be going to print on Monday December 29. To ensure your news or letter is included, please contact us by Friday December 19. Advertisers are also asked to contact us by the same date.

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 Direct 0845 46 47 Well Aware health & social care information www.wellaware.org.uk Tel: (freephone) 0808 808 5252

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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December, 2014

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A Frampton Cotterell woman who pledged to run a total of 500 miles in memory of her daughter has finished her challenge. Gemma Talbot has been clocking up the miles since the summer to raise money for the stillbirth and neonatal death charity Sands. She says almost £2,500 has been raised. Gemma’s daughter Ava was stillborn in November 2012, and the family found vital help with the Sands charity. Her fundraising effort was to thank Sands and raise awareness of the issue. Gemma told Frome Valley Voice: “I completed the challenge when family and friends joined me for the final mile. We did a mile lap around Frampton finishing at our house for tea, coffee and cake. It was a perfect way to mark the end of the challenge but also to commemorate Ava’s second birthday”. “Completing the 500 miles has been hard work but it has been lovely to do something positive in memory of Ava. I completed 500.09 miles in 118 hours, 15 minutes and 53 seconds, which was over 111 recorded walks and runs and burnt up 64,725 calories. The money raised now stands at £2,462 which is truly amazing. I have been amazed at people’s generosity and find it quite overwhelming”. Gemma’s just giving page (www. justgiving.com/AvaLily) is open until the end of December.

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Mum completes 500 miles in memory of Ava

Gemma (in white T-shirt) completes her challenge

K Cox Landscapes Gardens from Design to Completion Our services include: Landscaping, Garden Redesign, Patios, Planting, Turfing, Decking and Block Paving. We also specialise in:

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December, 2014

Floral Friends get to work in Frampton A group dedicated to making Frampton Cotterell a brighter place to live by planting flowers say theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re going from strength to strength. Now, as Gill Edgington explains, theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re looking for new members for the group, and a secretary to help them. We have now planted nearly 2000 daffodil bulbs around the village, thanks to donations from Iron Acton Garden centre, Kemps Garden Centre and a number of local residents. We are looking forward to a colourful spring in 2015. We have also started making planters. We have our first ones outside the Daisy Chain Deli in Lower Stone Close and have planted them with winter pansies, primulas, daffodils and tulip bulbs. With the help of recently promised funding from Merlin, we will set up many more around the village and also plan to set up floral gateways to the village.

plans are to have lovely floral displays around the village in the summer and to involve all groups in the Village in planting and caring for them. We have now chosen the winning logo from the competition entries by the children of Watermore Primary School so we hope to have this on our letter headings and News updates as soon as possible.

Would You Like to Join Us?

If you know of anywhere around the village you would like to see a planter or if would like to sponsor a planter with a personal plaque please let us know. We would love to hear from you.

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We have had lots of support from local businesses who are willing to help us with hanging baskets etc. in the spring. Our

If you would like to join this very friendly group or can help us in any way please let us know: floralfriendsofframpton@gmail. com/01454776326. Gardening experience is not necessary. We are currently searching for a Secretary who can help with things like newsletters and form filling.

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Long term closure of Winterbourne bridge for rail electrification scheme

THE road bridge over the railway line in Harcombe Hill, Winterbourne, has been closed until next spring for work linked to a major electrification project. After a couple of short-term closures to help prepare for the work, the main part of the scheme is now underway to re-build the bridge. Network Rail said the work was necessary in order to accommodate the new trains and electrification infrastructure that will improve the Great Western line. Spokeswoman Victoria Bradley said the closure was expected to last until April 2015. Throughout the reconstruction, drivers will have to use other roads, although access will remain open for pedestrians via a temporary footbridge. Network Rail said the electrification programme would make train journeys more reliable, quieter and energy efficient. It said journeys would be smoother and more comfortable for passengers, while people living near the track would find it quieter.

Harcombe Hill bridge - shut until April A new fleet of electric trains will also be cheaper to run than diesel locomotives. They will require less maintenance, be faster,

longer and have more seats in the carriages. The project on the London to Bristol section is due to be completed by 2016.

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Monday 7.30pm Watermore Primary School from Jan 20

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Work colleagues raise thousands of pounds in memory of Emma COLLEAGUES from a Chipping Sodbury financial services company have raised more than £10,000 in memory of their friend Emma Wygladala. Emma worked at the Jelf Group before she was diagnosed with a very rare sarcoma of the womb in 2013 and died 10 months later, aged 38. She asked her friends to raise money for St Peter’s Hospice because of the help it gave her and her family. Jo Thresher, of Jelf, said: “The support and care offered to Emma by the hospice was second to none and everyone at Jelf is so pleased to be able to offer some support back.” Emma’s sister Clair and their mum were by Emma’s side during her last weeks at the hospice. Clair said: “I really couldn’t fault the care given to my sister, it was just wonderful.”

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After being closed or under traffic light control since March, Church Road bridge is finally open to two-way traffic. The lights were removed just a day behind schedule.

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Our qualified tutor provides step by step guidance each week, covering sketching, pastels, watercolour and acrylic painting. By the end of the course you will have 8 pieces of your own original art including a pastel pet portrait and an acrylic country landscape! You can then show off your new found skills to family and friends at the end of course exhibition!

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For more information including dates, times and venue, please call Emma on 01454 227116.

Art can help reduce stress, create a feeling of well-being and provide relaxation but most of all — it’s fun! Student numbers are kept low to ensure that everyone gets maximum benefit so to reserve a place on our next course or for more information call today on 01454 227116.

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December, 2014

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Speed Limit shakeup for Iron Acton Motorists are set for a slow down around Iron Acton after South Glos Councillors approved plans for speed limit changes. Two sections of the Bristol Road will see the speed limit cut from 50 to 40 mphs. The move was agreed during a meeting of the Frome Valley Area Forum. Councillors acted after listening to members of the public and considering the responses to the recent consultation. The first part of road affected would be from the Farm Shop to the first Iron Acton turn off before the railway line. The second stretch would start by the garden centre and join up with existing 40mph limits on the outskirts of Yate. Only the Iron Acton bypass would stay a 50mph zone. Between 1 May 2008 and 31 December 2012 there were 16 reported injury accidents on these stretches, 1 was fatal. Mark Curtis, a resident of Yate Road near to the Victoria Garage was seriously injured and his car was written off whilst he was waiting to turn into his drive. Mark told the Forum “I was hit by a car from behind and pushed across the road into oncoming traffic and hit by another car both driving fast. My wife who was 5 and a half months pregnant at the time was just a few cars behind me and saw it all happen”. Mark implored the committee to approve the speed limit reduction stating that “A cut from 50 to 40mph will cut the risk of accidents and reduce greatly the risk of those involved from being killed or seriously injured”. Meanwhile roads in and around Iron Acton are to be

given a 20mph limit after support from local residents at the meeting. The new limits will apply to the village and on Nibley Lane (from the village to Badminton Road), Bridge Road and Hope Road. Residents told local South Gloucestershire Councillors who approved the scheme for implementation by April 2015 that: The High Street and lanes are used as a ‘rat run’ with some vehicles being driven at “crazy speeds”. 7 speeding vehicles ended up in the ditch on Nibley Lane

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during the summer months when Church Road was closed. There are no pavements along part of the High Street and the lanes, which are mostly single carriageway, narrow and bendy. Iron Acton Village is a Conservation Area, has a primary school and is on the Avon Cycleway. Children walking to and from school, cyclists, dog walkers and horse riders are at serious risk

Mark Curtis’s car after his accident on the Bristol Road

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fromevalleyvoice www.fromevalleyvoice.co.uk December, 2014 T: 01454 800 120 8 Police hunt for man Winterbourne nursery after burglary needs improvement www.fromevalleyvoice.co.uk

Police are appealing for help to identify a man they’d like to talk to about a distraction burglary at an elderly man’s home in Winterbourne. The man called at his sheltered accommodation flat at around 7pm on Nov 3. They claimed they were from the local council, and when the 86-year-old said he didn’t believe them and tried to close the front door, they forced their way in. The man, pictured held him against a wall while the second made a thorough search of the flat, stealing a large amount of cash from his wallet. The men then made off, leaving their victim shocked but unhurt other than with a grazed wrist. The man pictured is around 6ft 5ins tall, well built, wearing a woollen hat with a white rim, a dark- coloured top, dark scruffy trousers and white trainers. The second man is shorter, of slim built, with a scarf covering his face. He wore a light-coloured coat, a hat and dark trousers. Det Con Alastair Binnie, investigating, said: “This was a serious incident and obviously a very upsetting one for the elderly victim. We’d like to hear from anyone who can help our inquiry.” Anyone who recognises the descriptions or who has any information is asked to call the police on 101 quoting reference number 114631/14.

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A CHILDREN’S nursery in Winterbourne has been told by an inspector from education watchdog Ofsted that it has to improve. Dominique Bird highlighted some good aspects of the Silverhill Day Nursery after her inspection but also listed a number of areas that needed attention. The nursery is located in several buildings on the site of Silverhill School. Ms Bird said staff were warm towards the children in their care and, as a result, the youngsters were happy and felt secure. She said behaviour was good because staff regularly praised the children and set clear expectations. A home-from-home environment was created for babies to allow them to settle quickly while some staff, especially those working with older children, prepared them well emotionally for the next stage in their education, including starting school. But the inspector said not all staff understood and consistently implemented the system of observation, assessment and planning. It meant some did not complete precise assessments of children’s learning and development or plan challenging activities for them. Ms Bird also said management did not monitor and evaluate staff practice or the overall quality of the nursery sufficiently well, resulting in some children not making consistently good progress due to the varied quality of teaching. The nursery was told its outdoor areas, especially the one for babies, were not used well and not all staff encouraged parents to share their children’s home interests and achievements. There was also criticism that Ofsted had not been notified of a new manager for the nursery.

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December, 2014

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More rehab beds to open at Southmead Hospital ONE in eight patients in Bristol’s new Southmead Hospital is ready to leave, councillors have been told. The scale of “bed blocking’ was revealed by senior officials of North Bristol NHS Trust at a meeting of South Gloucestershire Council’s public health and health scrutiny commission. They said that on any day more than 100 patients were fit for discharge but could not leave until provision had been made for their health and social care in the community. Chief executive Andrea Young said that from the start of December the number of rehabilitation beds in the hospital’s Elgar House would be increased from 50 to 76 to help tackle the problem. Peter Murphy, the council’s director of children, adult and health services, admitted the system was under pressure, but said 14 additional nursing home beds were due to be provided within the next couple of weeks, which should improve capacity. Ms Young had been invited to the committee to outline some of the issues that the trust had faced since the opening of the new hospital in May and the actions it had taken to tackle them. She said there had been problems getting used to some of the new facilities. This had led to operations being cancelled and too many patients having to wait too long at A&E. Only 86 per cent were being seen within four hours, compared with the national target of 95 per cent. Too many people were also having to wait to be transferred from ambulances. However, the committee heard that the figures were improving even though attendance at A&E remained high, at 7,000 per month. Success stories included a fall in infection rates – no cases of MRSA since September 2013 – and in mortality rates.

Watermore School shines in Sunday Times list A Frampton Cotterell school is celebrating after featuring in a national newspaper’s list of the best school’s in the country. Watermore School came 42nd in the Sunday Times ‘Parent Power’ league tables. Head Teacher Janet Hoyle told the Bristol Post; “We were delighted to receive a letter from David Laws in the spring term, congratulating our staff, governors and pupils. “He commended the school for being a top performing school in terms of the progress our pupils make between Key Stage 1 and the end of Key Stage 2. “Our resultspastedGraphic.png in 2014 continued to be significantly higher than national averages and this is a real testament to the hard work and dedication of our children and staff. “As well as having high aspirations for our children’s academic progress, we also set great store by encouraging their emotional and social development and enabling them to have fun as learners. “We work hard to enable them to be actively involved in our school and local community. I am tremendously proud to be head teacher of Watermore.”

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Morning after drivers targeted in Christmas drink driving campaign Avon and Somerset Police’s annual Christmas drink driving campaign has started, with ‘morning after’ drivers particularly in the spotlight. On the 50th anniversary of the first nationwide public information film on drinking and driving, Operation Tonic will run throughout December and into the New Year, aiming to help reduce deaths, serious injuries and crime on the roads by tackling drink and drug driving. Police activity during the month will include vehicle stopcheck operations, targeted patrols and awareness-raising at events and in pubs and bars. Police are urging anyone who has concerns about someone they believe may be drink or drug driving to call them on 101, or text the word drunk and as many details as they can to 81819.

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December, 2014

Health secretary urged to intervene in Frenchay beds battle CAMPAIGNERS have asked the Health Secretary to intervene in the long running battle to get a community hospital built in Frenchay. They are increasingly frustrated and annoyed at the lack of action over the promised 68-bed facility, which they were told they would get after Southmead was chosen as the site for a new super hospital. Although the Southmead complex is now open, with Frenchay’s former acute hospital closed down, people in and around Frenchay are still waiting to hear if the services pledged to be provided will ever materialise. Now, after ten years of campaigning, the Save Frenchay Community Hospital Group has written to Jeremy Hunt and asked him to investigate.

It said it had “grave concerns that the promised and twice formally approved community hospital at Frenchay” was no nearer being built, even though Southmead opened more than six months ago. The group pointed out that Southmead only had 800 acute beds because of the proposed 68 intermediate beds and associated facilities at Frenchay. The Frenchay beds would allow patients discharged from Southmead to receive further care in the community before they were ready to go home. Currently they can go to Elgar ward at Southmead – where the beds for that purpose will be decommissioned in early 2016 – or to Thornbury Hospital. But the group said it was becoming clear that the

promised 68 beds were now set to be provided in a nursing or residential home rather than a hospital, a move it said went against previous approvals, patient requirements and safety. The group has also criticised the lack of information being fed through to South Gloucestershire Council’s health scrutineers from the NHS, which it said prevented them from carrying out their duties to hold the NHS to account. Group spokeswoman Barbara Harris said in turn, it was denied its democratic right to engage in matters affecting local health provision. The letter said: “We have no alternative but to expect the Secretary of State to call this matter in for his determination in order to resolve the issue.”

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December, 2014

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Speeding and bad parking near Coalpit Heath school targeted CALLS have been made for action to tackle speeding and dangerous parking near the Manor Primary School in Coalpit Heath. There are concerns that some motorists drive too fast in the vicinity of the school, where poor parking also adds to the hazards. Westerleigh councilor Claire Young has urged South Gloucestershire Council to do something about the problem. She said: “Poor parking and speeding on the roads around the school are a real concern for both parents and local residents. “I recently carried out a survey of residents living nearby and found that the majority supported a 20mph limit on Roundways, St Anne’s Drive and Henfield Road leading up to the school. “I took this to a meeting of the council’s transport committee and will continue to lobby for action. “I also asked the committee to

make sure the council can use its parking enforcement car to help tackle the parking problems. “There are no simple solutions and a number of ideas have been tried over the years, including white lines on the road and a police and community support officer working with the schoolchildren to create flyers to hand out. “It’s important to try new approaches and I want to make sure the council is playing its part in this as fully as possible.” A council spokesman said: “We will be looking into the traffic concerns raised and will consider all available options to improve safety measures around the school.” School governor Michaela Crumpton, who hopes to stand for election to South Gloucestershire Council next year, said inconsiderate or illegal parking was the greater problem and a “three strikes” scheme introduced two months ago was

having an effect. Residents and parents of pupils can report parking problems to the police, who write to offenders on the first occasion they are reported. A second report leads to a visit by an officer and if they cause a third problem, it can lead to enforcement action being taken. Mrs Crumpton said: “So far 16 letters have been sent out and four people are on a second strike. There was a meeting recently between residents, the school and the police and it is apparent the police are fully behind the scheme.”

Two dead after crash in Chipping Sodbury Two people have died in Chipping Sodbury after the car they were travelling in was involved in an accident with a lorry. The accident happened in Hounds Road, at its junction with Cotswold Road at about 11.15am on 18th November. Two people who were travelling in a car, which was in collision with an HGV, suffered serious injuries and died. The lorry driver wasn’t injured. Local road closures caused serious congestion in the area because lorries were unable to use a nearby bridge in the area because of a weight restriction. Police would like to hear from anyone who was in the area at the time of the incident who may have information to help their enquiries.

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December, 2014

Car repair business moves into former VMW premises CAR repair specialists Dingmaster have opened a new branch in the former VMW Motors site in Frampton Cotterell. The company, which also has existing depots in Patchway and Swindon, was keen to expand into the premises on the junction of Bristol Road and Church Road, which had housed VMW for many years. Neil Carroll, managing director of Dingmaster, said the petrol station also on the site would re-open as a Texaco filling station and mini market in midDecember. The site was put up for sale last March and VMW was later voluntarily wound up.

Have a view on a local issue? Let us know by emailing richard@ fromevalleyvoice.co.uk

Work underway on the former VMW Motors site

Christmas is fast approaching and here at the Live & Let Live we are ready for the festive season! Our fabulous

Christmas Fayre Menu Runs from the 1st of December to the 30th, excluding Christmas day. Here at the Live we are also having a revamp! Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve freshened up the interior of the pub and our seasonal menu has changed for the chilly evenings ahead. Pop in for a meal from our fresh, locally sourced menu while our real log fires roar away to keep the winter weather at bay. So pop down and warm up with us at the Live & Let Live this winter.

Winter Wishes The Live & Let Live Team 01454 772254 liveandletliveframpton@gmail.com facebook.com/liveandletliveframptoncotterell

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Search for burglars who pretended to be police officers Police are hunting for two men who pretended to be officers in a burglary. The incident happened in Chipping Sodbury on Wednesday, November 19, when two men knocked at the house of an 77 year old woman and claimed to be officers investigating a burglary next door. They were both wearing balaclavas at the time. One of the men then went inside the house with the victim and asked her to collect her purse. The victim placed the purse down whilst the second male left claiming to speak to neighbours. Once the men left, the victim realised the purse had been stolen containing several hundred pounds. The suspect who entered the house is described as a white male, approximately 5ft 7ins tall, of stocky build and in his 30’s. He was wearing a black bobble hat, black vest over a black top and black bottoms. The second suspect is described as a white male, approximately 6ft tall, dressed all in black with his face covered.

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The incident happened the day before another in Staple Hill.. A man wearing a balaclava broke the lock on a door and entered the house and asked the 86 year old homeowner if she had any money in house. When she questioned him, he claimed to be a police officer. The suspect then told the victim to go upstairs, which she did. When she came back downstairs, she realised a quantity of cash had been stolen. The suspect is described as white, approximately 5ft 3ins tall, of slight build and wearing a balaclava. Officers are linking these two offences. Detective Inspector Dominic Graham of Bristol CID said: “These were two serious incidents whereby elderly victims have been preyed upon by burglars. I would like to make it perfectly clear that no police officer would ever wear a balaclava whilst undertaking their duties. Also, a bona fida police officer would also present identification ”.

Work on Winterbourne Library’s new garden gets underway Work has now started on the land behind Winterbourne Library to create its long awaited garden. The new garden area will provide extended library space to enable new opportunities such as open air storytelling, messy play and outdoor crafts. At other times it will aim to be an oasis of calm for people to simply sit, read and access the libraries’ new free WiFi service. The main foundations are in place and the library staff hope to begin planting in the garden area by February. Thirza Limberg, senior library assistant, said: “We intend to start a gardening club for people interested in helping to maintain the area, and also for anyone who would like to share gardening tips, swap plants and seeds and have a general chat about the trials and tribulations of a gardener’s life over a cup of tea. Members may not always want to garden, and sometimes the weather might not be suitable, but the group will provide an opportunity for enthusiasts to meet at the library and share ideas”. “We are already thinking about spring and would love to hear your ideas for using Winterbourne’s newest open space, especially for group activities”. You can contact the library on 01454 868006, winterbourne. library@southglos.gov.uk or speak to a staff member next time you visit the library.

Beginners Meditation Class at The Greenfields Centre, Winterbourne 5 week evening course 7pm to 8pm

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December, 2014

Ratings drop for school – but getting better with changes BRIMSHAM Green School has dropped in the Ofsted ratings, with inspectors saying it requires improvement. The education standards organisation said the Yate secondary school had fallen from its previous “good” assessment three years ago, with pupils not making sufficient progress. That led to their GCSE results not being as high as they should have been, especially in English. But lead inspector Jacqueline Goodall said a number of improvements were starting to have an effect on teaching and learning, with the school getting better as a result. The inspection team’s report said in five key areas, only the behaviour and safety of pupils was rated as good. The others - leadership and management; quality of teaching; achievement of pupils and sixth form provision - all needed to improve. Ms Goodall said: “Over time,

the quality of teaching has not been consistently good. Teachers do not always plan activities at the right level of difficulty to help students make rapid progress. Expectations have not always been high enough, especially at key stage three. “There is also inconsistency in the rigour of how subject leaders ensure that standards of teaching and learning are good enough.” She said achievement in the sixth form had not been high enough, with some students not always able to follow courses that were suited to their needs. She also said until recently, governors had not held school leaders to account for students’ progress and the quality of teaching. But the report praised head teacher Kim Garland, who has been at the school since January 2013, for leading with “significant determination and moral purpose”.

It said: “On joining the school, the head teacher recognised that expectations and aspirations of both staff and students were not high enough. “To address this, sustainable improvements have been made to teaching, including through tackling areas of under-performance. Students are beginning to make faster progress and forecasts for GCSE and A-level results for the next two years show improvement.” Relationships between teachers and students were said to be positive and the standard of teaching and learning in maths had considerably improved. Disabled students and those with special educational needs

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were also well supported so they achieved well. Ms Garland said: “The report confirms that Brimsham is improving rapidly and the measures we have implemented are securing sustainable gains. We know our school well and target areas in need of improvement rigorously and with success.” “Staff and governors have truly embraced change and have significantly moved forward in the last 18 months. “Naturally we are eager for the outcomes of our improvement work to be fully recognised and, as such, we will be glad to be re-inspected so that we can secure a ‘good’ judgement.”

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Forestry enterprise keeps on growing From a back garden in Frenchay to an 18-acre plantation along the M32 ‘green corridor’ into Bristol, Frenchay Christmas Tree Farm has steadily grown over the last 20 years. While you would not consider forestry a natural career progression for ex-international transport director Peter Maughan, this is what he took on as a side project in 1992 whilst managing his own transport company. His son, Simon, came home from university surprised to find 200 baby

Peter Maughan

Christmas trees planted in Peter’s back garden. Simon was immediately hooked on the idea, but this first crop was not to be. Planted far too closely together, they soon began to grow into each other and die. “We made a lot of mistakes at the beginning,” says Peter, “but even though we can now produce trees of top quality, we’re still learning.” Fast-forward to 1997, and Peter tried again, this time on the current trading site, originally a field he had bought for a different purpose. Once again, Simon returned from a trip away to find a small plantation of 6,000 Norway Spruce trees. “I couldn’t believe my eyes,” says Simon. “I just thought it was a totally cool thing to do!” Peter called it his ‘Millennium Project’. After a trip to another grower in Devon, they attempted to sell a load of locally grown trees from the side of the road. “I remember how everyone was eyeing us with suspicion, driving by slowly but not getting out of their cars. We just couldn’t sell them, even when we dropped the price to just £6 per tree! In the end we practically gave them away to another retailer.” “If we had not already invested in a 6,000-tree plantation, I think we would have given up,” says Simon,

“But we were already in the game.” Over the next four years Peter put in a lot of work promoting the farm, maintaining the trees and extending the planting until the field was full. Whenever possible, Simon would take time off work to help, and he now manages the business. Gradually, word began to spread, and in 2004, “They were able at last to sell their very own trees.” Simon said: “It was a terrific moment to see those first trees coming off the field, and the looks on the faces of the happy customers who had chosen them said it all.” The aim was always to create a site for nature as well as for the trees, and to give a generous share of our profit to local charities. “I remember picking blackberries Simon planting here as a child,” says Frenchay Christmas Tree Farm Simon, “And having the will be open from Saturday 29 customers arrive in December November at 9.30am completes the circle, when they can www.frenchaychristmastreefarm. share what Peter and I have worked co.uk ; tel: 07717 220086 so hard to create.”

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December 8 & 9

“Crossbow Singers’ Christmas Concert will take place on Monday and Tuesday, 8th and 9th December, in Crossbow House, School Road, Frampton Cotterell. The evening of festive music will begin at 7.30 pm. Tickets, costing £6 each, are available from either Rose (Monday tickets) on 01454 772675, or Mary (Tuesday tickets) on 01454 887885. Please come along and support your local choir.”

December 8

Crossbow Singers Christmas Concert, 7.30pm. Tickets £6. 01454 773426

December 9

Crossbow Singers Christmas Concert, 7.30pm. Tickets £6. 01454 887885

December 10

Carer’s Club, 2-4pm Zion. Carers welcome to stay with the person they care for or use the free time as they wish. More details from Jean 775786 or Rona 886925.

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December, 2014

Have you got an event you would like to publicise? Do you run a club or society in the Frome Valley area?

Send details of your events or activities to richard@fromevalleyvoice.co.uk or call us on 01454 800120 We will make sure thousands of people in the area get to hear about it December 12

Westerleigh Brass Band Concert , St Peters, 7.30 pm

December 12

7.30pm Concert of Christmas music and carols played by the excellent Westerleigh Brass Band at St Peter’s church Frampton Cotterell. Tickets £3 (including refreshments) available from Geoff on 01454 772675 or Chris on 01454 778443.

December 12

Whiteshill Evangelical Church. Drop in for coffee, tea and cake any time between 2pm and 4pm. We open at this time on the second Friday of every month for young and old, with some craft activities for the very young.

December 13

Messy Church, St Saviours. Craft and lunch for the children. 10-12noon

December 13

Christmas Bazaar, Crossbow

Preschool, St Peters Hall, School Road.

December 13

Carols in the Barn, Winterbourne Medieval Barn 3.30pm. Tickets in advance. £2 adult, £1 children, incl. mulled wine and mince pie. Ring 774479. Sing traditional carols and watch St Michaels Church act out the Christmas Story in their own way!

December 13

Crossbow Pre-School Xmas Bazaar on Saturday 13th December, 10am-12 noon at St Peters Hall.

December 13

Whiteshill Evangelical Church community carol-singing outside the church, with brass band, hot drinks and barbeque.

December 14

‘Carols in the Barn’, Winterbourne Medieval Barn 3.30pm. Tickets in advance. £2 adult, £1 children, incl. mulled wine and mince pie. Ring

774479. Sing traditional carols and watch St Michaels Church act out the Christmas Story in their own way!

December 14

Adults Afternoon Tea Service, 3pm St Saviours. Tel. 887870 or 882867

December 15

Whiteshill Evangelical Church. Christmas Concert presented by the two choirs who practice each week at the church. They are the Emmaus Christian Choir and the Bristol Evangel Male Voice Choir. (By the way each choir is always on the lookout to welcome new members.)

December 17

Frampton Cotterell & District Local History Society, Zion Hall, 7.30pm. Annual Membership is £10, Guest for evening is £3. 01454 775265

December 19

Christmas Lunch, St Saviours hall. Coffee from 11am. Contact

December at Winterbourne Library Opening hours: Monday: Closed Tuesday: 9.30am – 7.00pm Wednesday: 9.30am – 5.00pm Thursday: Closed Friday: 9.30am – 7.00pm Saturday: 9.30am – 5pm Christmas Opening Wednesday 24 December 9.301.00 Thursday 25 December CLOSED Friday 26 December CLOSED Sat 27 - Wed 31 December NORMAL OPENING HOURS Thursday 1 January CLOSED Friday 2 January CLOSED Saturday 3 January NORMAL OPENING HOURS Rhymetime: Rhymes and songs for parents and babies/toddlers to enjoy together every Tuesday morning 9.30 – 10.00am Pre School Storytime: Wednesdays 9.30 – 10.00am for stories and crafts, term time only. Chatterbooks for book lovers in Years 5 and 6 will be meeting on Saturday 13 December 2.30 – 3.30pm for some Christmasthemed book fun! Please speak to a member of staff if you love books, love chatting and would like to join this group. To get into the Christmas spirit

join us on Saturday 20 December 2.30 – 3.30pm for Stories Round the Christmas Tree. There’ll be Christmas stories and songs followed by a craft activity. This is a free drop-in for young children and their families. Get crafty at our free holiday drop-in on New Year’s Eve, Wednesday 31 December 10.00 – 11.30am. Suitable for 3 – 10 year olds, we’ll be making calendars, party masks and sharing memories of the past year! Pop into the library on Tuesday 23 and 30 December 2.00 – 4.00pm for a DIY craft session. There will be crafts from previous activities during the year for you to help yourself. Bring a parent or carer to give you a helping hand! The Book Group for Parents will be meeting on Friday 5 December 2.00 – 3.00pm to discuss ‘The Book Thief’ by Marcus Zusak. If you are interested in joining the group please speak to a member of staff or contact the group’s facilitator Liz on 07825510079 If you need a break from Christmas shopping then come along to our two craft sessions for a therapeutic knit and natter! 10.00am – 12.00 noon on Saturday 6 and 20 December. Everyone is warmly welcomed.

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Following the success of our autumn Silver Singalong we will be holding a Christmas Singalong on Friday 12 December 2.00 3.00pm. Come and join us to sing carols and then lubricate your vocal chords with a nice cup of tea – and a mince pie! Please speak to a member of staff to book your place. Welcome to free WiFi at all South Gloucestershire Libraries! Winterbourne library now has free WiFi. Save on your heating bills and surf the net from the comfort of your own local library. Staff will show you how to easily access the service. What are you waiting for? Bring in your tablets, smart phones and laptops and get online. The Community Garden is underway! Work has now started on the land at the back of the library to turn it into our long awaited garden. The core structure is in place and by February we should be thinking about planting. We would like to start a Gardening Club for anyone interested in helping to maintain the area, but also for people who would like to share gardening tips, swap plants and seeds and have a general natter over a cup of tea about the trials and tribulations of a gardener’s life! If you are

interested in meeting with like minded horticultural sorts, please speak to a member of staff. You might not want to garden at all, and sometimes the weather might not be suitable, but you could always meet at the library to share ideas. And don’t forget your passport to a new world of reading with the Southwest Reading Passport for all readers age 16+. There are four reading worlds to discover - World of Darkness, World of Passion, Lyrical Worlds and Future Worlds. Pick up a Reading Passport and review sheets from your local library and submit your reviews before 30 December. There will be a regional prize of a £150 book gift card plus a South Gloucestershire Libraries draw for a £50 book gift card. Find out more at www. readingpassport.org For more information on any of the above: Tel: 01454 868006 email: winterbourne.library@ southglos.gov.uk website: www.southglos.gov.uk/ libraries twitter: www.twitter.com@ southgloslibs “Like” us on Facebook for all the latest at South Gloucestershire Libraries

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December, 2014 E: richard@fromevalleyvoice.co.uk Mary for details 01454 887870

December 21

Carol Services at St Saviours, St Peters, and Zion churches, 6pm.

December 21

Whiteshill Evangelical Church carol services. At 11am we plan a relaxed all-age service and at 6pm it will be carols and readings by candlelight. After each service there will be tea, coffee and mince pies.

December 24

Wed 24th - Children’s Crib Service, St Saviours, 5pm. A reenactment of the birth of Jesus. (NB. get there early!)

December 24

Carol Service, Zion Church 6pm. Suitable for all ages.

December 24

Watchnight Service and Christmas Communion, Zion church 11.15pm

Christmas Day

Christmas Day service (Family Eucharist), St Saviours, 10am

Christmas Day

Christmas Day service, Zion church 10.30am

Christmas Day

Whiteshill Evangelical Church. On Christmas Day there will be a short family service at 10.30am led by our pastor, David Horton. Children might like to bring one of their presents to show us all.

New Years Day

Whiteshill Evangelical Church, we have a short local walk starting at 2pm from outside the church. Afterwards there will be hot refreshments for all, in the hall at the back of the church.

January 15, 16 & 17

St. Peter’s Players are putting on “Cinderella” at Winterbourne Community Centre, January 15th,16th and 17th January evening performances @7.30 pm with a matinee on Saturday at 2.30 pm Tickets are £7 Adults and £4 children. On sale now from Veronica 01454 773426 We unfortunately had to cancel this show last year due to technical problems. We are up and running and raring to go this time. We look forward to seeing you all again. Carolie and the rest of The Players

Regular events Monday

n Toddler Group 9.30-11.30am (termtime) Winterbourne Early Years Centre, Greenfield Centre, Park Ave, Winterbourne. For more information call Helen 01454 773781. n Open Door bereavement suport group. 10.30-12.00 every first Monday., St Peter’s Church Baby Group 1-3pm (termtime) Winterbourne Early Years Centre, Greenfield Centre, Park Ave, Winterbourne. For more information call Helen 01454 773781.

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n Memory Cafe, run by the Alzheimer’s Society. The Greenfield Centre, Winterbourne, 2pm - 4pm 1st Monday of month. Scrabble, The Community Centre, Winterbourne, 2- 4.30pm n Manor Hall Gardening & Social Club The Manor Hall 2.-3.30pm. First Monday of the month, (except for Bank Holidays on the second Monday). n 1st Winterbourne Down and Buryside Beavers Scouts 5pm until 6:30pm at the Scout hut on Green Dragon Road, Winterborne. n 1st Winterbourne Beavers, Cubs and Scouts. Meet Monday evenings in St. Michael’s Room. winterbournesmgsl@ cotswoldedgescouts.org.uk 01454 775024 n North Road Ladies, Iron Action Parish Hall, 7.30, every first Monday. n Women’s Fellowship Zion Church Hall 2.30p.m.- 3.45 (from the middle of September) Programme of speakers, choirs etc., followed by a cup of tea. 50p per week. For more details ring Pat Lax 886830 n Iron Acton WI Iron Acton Parish Hall, 7.30, second Monday of month. n Crossbow Singers, Crossbow House, Frampton Cotterell. 7.30. n Winterbourn Down Border Morris Morris Dancing, All Saint’s Church Hall, 8.15pm n Line dancing with Laughter in Line, Zion Church Hall, Woodend Rd, Frampton Cotterell. Beginners 7.30pm, Improvers, 8.30pm. Info Sarah 01454 773929 www.laughterinline.org

Tuesday

n Rhymetime. Winterbourne Library. 9.30 – 10am. Rhymes and songs for parents and babies/toddlers to enjoy together. n Slimming World 9.30 The Greenfield Centre, Winterbourne. Tel Becca 07721 907780 n Knit and Natter The Beacon@ Zion United Church. 10am 12noon. Contact Mary Thexton 01454 850704 n Yate Visually Impaired Group. Yate Fire Station 2.30 pm every other Tuesday Contact Gay Williams 01454 321749 gab56@ btinternet.com n Winterbourne Ladies, The Greenfield Centre, Winterbourne, 7.30 -10pm, second Tuesday of month. n Crossbow Bridge Club, Crossbow House. 7.30pm n Slimming World 7.30 Elm Park School, Winterbourne. Tel Becca 07721 907780 n Centre Squares (dancing). Winterbourne Comunity Centre 7.45pm n Frampton Cotterell WI. Crossbow House, 7.45, fourth Tuesday of month n Folk Dancing. Crossbow House, Frampton Cotterell. 8.30 -10.30pm, 1st & 3rd Tuesday of month.

Got News? Call Richard 0n 01454 800 120

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n Feel good adult dance exercise class,Tuesday’s 1011.00am at Crossbow House, Frampton Cotterell. An easy to follow keep fit class to suit all levels of fitness. Normal cost £4.50 your first class half price with this advert. Tel Nina 01179 799796 for more info.

Wednesday

n Pre School Storytime. Winterbourne Library 9.30 – 10.00am, term time only. n Silver Chords Group. Every other Weds, Mason’s View Community Centre Winterbourne. 1.45pm. Entertainment and coach trips. Contact Doreen 01454 776484. n Winterbourne Police Beat Post. Greenfield Centre 2-3pm n Slimming World 7.30pm Frampton Cotterell Cof E School. Tel Lisa 07815 759118 n Coalpit Heath WI. Church Hall of St Saviours Church, Coalpit Heath. First Wednesday of each month. 7.45pm. New members welcome. n The Winterbourne Players, 8.00 pm, Community Centre, Watleys End Road. More info, Brian 07792 656689. n Beginners Meditation Class on Wednesdays 7pm to 8pm at the Greenfield Centre, Winterbourne To reserve your place on the next 5 week course, please contact

Sarah Presley on 07590 621495/ sarahpresley@live.com n Ladies Leisure is a friendly group of over 50’s. We meet every other Wednesday at Coalpit Heath Village Hall 2pm to 4pm. The cost is £1.50 per person which includes Tea/ Coffee & Biscuits. We have regular Entertainment & Day trips. Please come along and join us, contact Susan Bisp on 01454 775110 n Actonians Drama Group 7.30 pm Parish Hall, Iron Acton More info 01454 228760 www. actonians.co.uk Junior Actonians 6.00 pm 7.30 pm Parish Hall Iron Acton More info 01454 228277. n 2nd Wednesday of each month - Carer’s Group 2 - 4pm at The Beacon Centre, Zion Church, Frampton Cotterell n 4th Wednesday of each month - Forget me Not sing along group 2pm - 3.30 pm at The Beacon Centre, Zion Church, Frampton Cotterell. If you like a good sing song please come and join us. For more information ring Rona on 886925 or Jean on 775786.

Thursday n Probus. The Miners Club, Coalpit Heath. 10am, 2nd & 4th Thursdays of month n Manor Day Centre, Greenfield

ZION UNITED CHURCH Woodend Road, Frampton Cotterell

Sunday 21st December 10.30am

Children’s Nativity Service

6.00pm

Candlelit Carol Service with “scratch” orchestra. To participate ‘phone 776618

Christmas Eve 6.00pm

Carol Service (suitable for all ages)

11.15pm

Watch night Carols and Communion

Christmas Day 10.30am

Christmas Day Celebrations. All welcome. Bring a toy for “show and tell”

Sunday 28th December 4.00pm

Carols plus a bring and share tea

Carol singing Saturday 13th 10:15 am at Coalpit Heath Post Office Saturday 20th 10:15 am at The Frome Valley Fruit Farm

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Continued Centre, Winterbourne, 10-2pm. Please contact Mrs. Peggy Lavington on 01454 850287 for further details of this friendly club for older people n Praise and Play. All Saints’ Church Hall Winterbourne Down 10-12 during term times. For pre-school children and their parents/carers. n Stay & Play, 1-3pm (termtime) Winterbourne Early Years Centre, Greenfield Centre, Park Ave, Winterbourne. For more information call Helen 01454 773781. n Tiny Tots. 2.00-3.00pm,St Peter’s Church, n St John’s Ambulance. St Saviour’s Hall, Beesmoor Road. 6.15 - 9pm (term time). n Steam Engine Club, Miners Club, Coalpit Heath. 7pm, last Thursday of month. Line dancing. Iron Acton Parish Hall, High St, Iron Acton. New beginners, 7.20pm. Improvers, 8.30pm. www.laughterinline.com

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n Winterbourne Musical Theatre. Winterbourne Community Association, 7.30pm. n Winterbourne Flower Club. St Michaels Rooms, Winterbourne 7.30pm, 1st (Practice) and 3rd (Demonstration) Thursdays of each month. Further information call 01454 776753 n Winterbourne Evening Women’s Institute St. Michael’s Rooms in Winterbourne at 7.30pm on the second Thursday of every month except August n Crossbow Camera Club Crossbow House, 8pm, every Thursday (from September). Contact Mike Challenger 07833316081 n Bingo British Legion Club Ryecroft Road, Frampton Cotterell. 8.15pm.Free entry n Winterbourne Flower Club, St Michaels Rooms, Winterbourne 7.30pm, 1st (Practice) and 3rd (Demonstration) Thursdays of each month. Further information call 01454 776753 n South Gloucestershire Decorative and Fine Arts Society meet at Bradley Stoke Community School Fiddlers Lane Bradley Stoke. 3rd Thursday evening of the month. Starting October 7-00 for 7-30 start refreshments. For more information Sallykitching@googlemail.com Tel no 01454 774401

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Friday n St James The Less Parent and Toddler Group, The Marshall Rooms, Iron Acton. 10.30 12.30 term times. n Frome Valley Art Group Greenfield Centre, Winterbourne. 1pm to 4pm and 6.30pm to 9pm n Frampton Cotterell Male Voice Choir, Zion Church, Frampton Cotterell. 7.30pm – 9.00pm. New members welcomed, no audition, Call Paul Crook 01454 851656.

Saturday

n Brockeridge Quilters, Greenfield Centre, Winterbourne. 10am to 4pm, third Saturday of the month. n Bingo Open7/00pm,Bingo 8/00pm Music & Dancing from 8/30pm-11/30pm Every Saturday night.(£4) at the Royal British Legion Ryecroft Rd

Sunday

n Japanese Embroidery Class Greenfield Centre, Winterbourne 9.30am to 4pm, (monthly). Contact: Jo Tripp 01454 850147. n Nature Reserves, Winterbourne work party meets 1030am, Church Lane, Winterbourne, 2nd & 4th Sundays in the month. Newleaze reserve (Bristol Road) 10.30am Ist Sunday of month Huckford Quarry 2.30pm 3rd Sunday of month. Contact Frank Smith 01454 778975.

A campaign has been launched to encourage people to think about the small things they can do that will make a big difference. The Smile South Glos campaign is aiming to spread the word that a smile can light up a person’s day. Sue Jaques, from South Glos Council said: “We all want to live somewhere that feels like a good place to be and is welcoming. Each of us can make a difference by being friendly and showing small acts of kindness to each other. Encouraging everyone to smile is the first act of kindness”. The campaign is asking people to share the message with family members, work colleagues and friends.

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Frome Valley house prices increase by 11.4% in 2014 Quarterly property report by Andrew Maunder of AJ Homes With a headline like this it would be easy to think the Frome valley housing market has entered a new boom. However the figure quoted is an average based on all types of properties AJ Homes has sold within the Frome Valley area between October 2013 and October 2014. Whilst this figure will give an indication of your homes potential value it needs to be appreciated there is no such thing as a house price conformity across the area, Indeed prices differ not just from street to street and from one side of the road to the other but also from house to house. The local housing market is and has been extremely active though a majority of this year’s house price increase was prior to the tougher mortgage lending criteria introduced in the April 2014. Nevertheless 2014 has been an exceptional year with the 11.4% house price increase being the first annual double digit upward movement since the banking crisis of 2007/2008. AJ Homes are often asked what is going to happen to the housing market in the future, and whilst we don’t have a crystal ball the extensive experience of the sales team can normally predict with good accuracy the medium term local housing market and to this end AJ Homes forecast that whilst historically house prices falter in the second and third quarters of an election year we consider the ability of pension holders to gain access to their pension pots from April 2015 is likely to counter balance any possible lethargy and subsequent price fall that might otherwise have occurred. So AJ Homes are extremely confident of a continuation of the current positive conditions of the market, whilst a further double digit increase is unlikely the rise in house prices throughout 2015 is anticipated.

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Dave and Pat Hockey are well known in the Frome Valley as local councillors. Many people also see them on walks down by the River Frome. What you may not know is that the couple enjoy much longer walks adventures that take them abroad, as Dave explains. Pat and I love walking locally along the Frome Valley Walkway with our dog, Blossom. For our holidays each year we walk long distance footpaths stopping at hotels, pubs or guest houses along the way. In 2004, after walking the South West Way twice, the Pembrokeshire Coast Path 3 times, Offas Dyke, The Cotswold Way, the Norfolk Coast Path and the Kerry Way and Beara Way in South West Ireland, we decided to cross the Channel and walk the 1,600 mile long way-marked Brittany Coast Path (the GR34), starting at Saint Malo when Blossom was a pup and ending in La Roche Bernard in 2012 (about 200

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2,000 Mile Walkies

December, 2014

miles each August). When we finished the Brittany Coast Path we were delighted to find out that we could continue our walk going South on the Grande Route ‘GR8’ along the Loire Atlantique coast. This year we started our backpacking walk after taking a ferry from La Barre-de-Mont to Ile d’Yeu – see photo of Pat at Quai Carnot. Walking round the island took us 2 days. We then crossed back to the mainland walking 141 miles in total down and around the coast path to Saint Vincent-sur-Jard staying 1, 2 or 3 nights en route via Notre-Dame-de-Monts, Saint-Jean-de-Monts, Saint Hilaire de Riez, Saint Gilles Croix de Villes, Bretignolles-sur-Mer and Les Sables D’Olonne. The extra nights were booked where the distance between 2

Journey’s end at Saint Vincent-sur-Jard. Pat, Dave and Blossom who has also walked all 2,000 miles around the Brittany and Loire Atlantic coast with us from St Malo – an average of 200 miles a year since 2004.

Pat at Ile d’Yeu, the start of this year’s trek

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places could not be walked in 1 day or where we wanted to spend more time exploring an area. The second photo shows Pat, me and Blossom taking a well earned rest outside of the Office de Tourisme at Saint Vincent-

sur-Jard where we ended our walk this year. Next year we will start our walk where we finished this year and walk on down the GR8 coast path to La Rochelle – we just love it!

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Concorde and aero centre scheme gets £4.7 million Lottery boost A GRANT of £4.7 million from the Heritage Lottery Fund has given a major boost to the campaign to build a permanent home for Concorde and the Bristol Aero Collection at Filton airfield. The Bristol Aero Collection Trust (BACT) has already received significant pledges of support for the £16 million project to create an aerospace centre at one of the birthplaces of the British aviation industry. BAE Systems, Airbus, RollsRoyce and South Gloucestershire Council are among backers, as well as a number of charitable trusts and donors. Now the major Lottery contribution has been welcomed by the trust, which hopes to welcome the first visitors to the centre in the spring of 2017. Lloyd Burnell, BACT’s project director, said the complex would be “a fantastic attraction for the region”. He said: “The fascinating

collections, many of which will be made accessible to the public for the first time, include thousands of important objects and nationally-significant archives which trace more than 100 years of technical innovation and engineering brilliance, along with the social history of the people who’ve worked in the industry”. It is also hoped the centre will inspire the next generation of scientists and engineers. A formal planning application for the centre was submitted in the summer, with two listed hangars earmarked for the collection and a new building planned for Concorde 216 – the last of the supersonic fleet to fly. Trust chairman Iain Gray said: “We are very grateful to the Heritage Lottery Fund trustees, to all our funders and hardworking volunteers for their commitment which will see the Bristol Aerospace Centre become a reality in 2017.”

Photo: Rich McD Photography

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LTH A A

By Sarah Young of

Spoilt Hair & Beauty

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Are you ready for the Big Day, or do you have lots on in the run up to the big day?

bright bold lip colour. Then enjoy the evening – but remember to take it all off before you go to bed. PARTY HAIR – How to make your hair look different. How about a quick slick pony tail? Or a messy bun or slick your fringe back or mess up a short style. Dry shampoo is great if you are in a rush and a squirt of shine spay will pick you hair up if it’s looking a bit dull. If you are unsure, try the Good Housekeeping virtual haircut and make over. You can upload your photo then play around with different styles, to see what suits you.

Here are some of our helpful tips to help you through this busy festive time. THAT NIGHT OUT – this might be the first of many nights. Taking your make up from day to evening is easier than it looks. Keep your day time make up light and this way it’s easier to jazz up for the evening. Blot any shiny and lightly reapply foundation to even out your complexion for extra oomph. Try a light bronzing powder from your cheekbones back towards your temples. Eyes – reapply your eyeliner and top up your lids with a smoky shadow for more dramatic look and add a darker eye shadow just to the crease for a more defined look or simply take your eye line pencil and draw a cat-eye or winged look. Pucker up and change your lip colour to a

The

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FRAMPTON COTTERELL Fresh homemade food, complimented by our range of chosen drinks and a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Using local produce and suppliers and Fairtrade beans for coffees, we are sure you will have a great time at The Globe The Globe caters for everyone, with our play area and easily accessible facilities.

December, 2014

And our top 5 easy on-trends for Christmas 2014 A Smokey Eye Red Lips A glittery nail top coat A subtle spray tan Lots and lots of water!

With all this you can’t fail to look gorgeous, you are all ready. Have a great festive time, and a happy New Year too.

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For Designer and Traditional Windows and Doors visit Crystal Clear.

View the extensive range of stunning designer and traditional doors and windows at Crystal Clear’s showroom or online at www.crystalclearbristol.co.uk • Extensive Showroom • Striking Designs, offering Low Upkeep, Energy Efficiency, Ease of Use and High Security • PVCu, Aluminium, Sliding Sash and Casement Windows • Composite, Bi-fold, Sliding, French, Stable and Patio Doors • Exclusive Supplier of the MODO Collection from Apeer • Established Local Company with an Excellent Reputation

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December, 2014

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New Play area thanks to Community Action Group Plans to upgrade the outdoor play facilities of a Frampton Cotterell preschool have been given the green light after it received a grant from a local organisation. Zion Preschool has been given funding by the Frome Valley Community Action Group to renovate the play area at the Zion United Church Hall where the preschool is located. The new play area will include a natural ‘teepee’, water play area, a ‘road’ for the children to learn about road safety as well as musical pipes, raised planters and an ecological area. It will provide the children with a safe, clean and educational space which they can learn and explore in. Preschool Leader Carole Baldwin says “it will be such a positive step for the preschool to be able to confidently take the children outside and continue their learning in a natural and interesting environment. The children love to be outside and it will now mean they are able to access the area all year round, experiencing the changing seasons”. The work to renovate the play area is planned to take place over the February half term; the preschool would be glad of

Natalie Halsall (deputy Preschool Leader) and Carole Baldwin (Preschool Leader) with their plans to transform the garden. any donations of plants or any offers of help people may be able to give. Please contact

Carole Baldwin at enquiries@zionpreschool. co.uk

Planting bulbs; growing young minds at Zion Preschool

Children planting bulbs at the Brockeridge Centre.

Letters from the North Pole… Zion Preschool is helping to keep the magic of the festive season alive with their ‘Letters from Father Christmas’ fundraising project. Children often write to Father Christmas, but often don’t get a reply and the committee of Zion preschool have come up with a solution. They are handwriting personalised letters to children and delivering them around the village to keep the magic alive and spread a little Christmas cheer. Each letter will have the child’s name, their best friend or sibling, their most wanted gift and the road they live on, the letter will then be delivered during the week starting December 15th. Each letter costs £5 and will raise funds for much needed maintenance works at the Preschool. If you would like to order a letter please contact enquiries@ zionpreschool.co.uk for details by December 12th.

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A little drop of rain didn’t stop the children from Zion Preschool getting out and about to help plant bulbs with the Floral Friends of Frampton earlier this month. In an initiative to make Frampton a more beautiful place to live, many bulbs are being planted around the village in an attempt to make the area will be awash with colour in Spring. Zion Preschool was the first preschool to work with the group and they plan to be planting bulbs together in the village for many years to come. Preschool Chair Rebecca Bailey-Price said “It’s lovely for the children to be able to plant bulbs in their own village and we can come back in the spring and see the flowers they helped to grow. Many of them can’t wait; the daffodils can’t come quickly enough! It’s also good for them to learn about how things grow and to do something in the community” The preschool has a new play area with raised beds planned for February 2015 so they will be able to develop and diversify their interest in plants and flowers.

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fromevalleyvoice T: 01454 800 120 26 December, 2014 1st Frampton Cotterell Brownies celebrate golden anniversary www.fromevalleyvoice.co.uk

1st Frampton Cotterell Brownies have celebrated 50 years with a Mary Poppins themed birthday party and sleepover. The past and present leaders, helpers and several ex-Brownies including Greta Weaver who was one of the original Brown Owls back in 1968, gathered in St Peter’s hall Crossbow with the present Brownies to celebrate the foundation of the unit which first met on the Crossbow site in 1964. The Brownies invited the parliament of past and present Brown, Tawny and Snowy Owls along with a flock of other birds a Hedgehog and several ex-Brownies to join them in a ‘Supercalifragilistic’ birthday tea of homemade cakes and savouries. The Brownies also treated them to a rendition of the Supercalifragilistic song adapted to celebrate the heritage of Girlguiding and to thank them for supporting the group over the past 50 years. Thanks to the Crossbow Community association, the

Brownies were allowed to continue the celebration with

a sleepover which was themed around the Mary Poppins film

which also celebrated 50 years in 2014.

Crocodile Experience

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Unique Christmas Present

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December, 2014

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Big month for entertainment at Sodbury Town Hall For a month that provides an excellent ’Christmas’ excuse for a night out, there are a variety of events on offer that should provide a little of something for everyone. On Saturday 6th the local Shooting Stars Youth Theatre Company are staging three performances of ‘How The Grinch Nearly Stole Christmas’. The original children’s story ‘How the Grinch Stole Christmas’ was written by Theodor Seuss Geisel . Geisel is better known by his pen name ’Dr. Seuss’, and is famous for such books as The Cat in the Hat and Green Eggs and Ham. His story of the Grinch was adapted into an animated film in 1966 and then a feature film starring Jim Carey in 2000. The production from Shooting Stars can be seen on Saturday 6th December, with three performances at 1.30pm 4.00pm and 8.00pm. Tickets cost £8 and can be booked online through www.ticketsource.co.uk/ shootingstars or you can call their box office on 07783 869 087 By contrast, five days later sees the return of the mighty Chris Farlowe, along with the Norman Beaker Band. Perhaps best known for hits such as Out of Time and Handbags and Gladrags Farlowe was first tempted into the burgeoning world of pop by the skiffle music of Lonnie Donegan. Since then he has worked almost continuously, frequently in demand by other singers to appear on their recordings. Aside from his own iconic sixties band The Thunderbirds, Chris also joined Colosseum and Atomic Rooster in

Got News? Call Richard 0n 01454 800 120

the seventies and has worked alongside Van Morrison, Steve Marriott, PP Arnold. Ronnie Lane, Jimmy Page and many other pop luminaries. Farlowe returns to the Town Hall by public demand, following a stunning performance at the Sodbury Jazz and Blues Festival earlier this year. For many of his fans he is the living embodiment of the star who’s seen it all and done most of it, but remains as fresh and enthusiastic as when he started out. With a live act honed to perfection, many of today’s so called superstars could learn a lot from him. There are still a small number of tickets left for the concert on Thursday 11th December. Priced £20, they can be ordered by calling 01454 334410 or by using the ticket ordering page on the website www. sodburyjazzandblues.com. No Christmas would be complete without seasonal songs and carols and Yate Choral Society will be providing plenty of both to entertain you in their Christmas Concert on Wednesday 17th December. The Choral Society will conducted by Geoff Wickham and accompanied by Hazel Wickham, and added flavour will be provided by their guest soloist Clare Dibble on harp. Tickets are priced at £7, which includes refreshments, and they can be obtained from the Tourist Information Centre or from Jan Hazelby(Tel: 01454 314779) or Margaret Phillips (Tel: 01454 324839) Finally for this year. On New Year’s Eve

there is what is billed as a family friendly Snow Ball This is the fifth year such an event has been held and the organisers promise that it will be their BIGGEST ever party! Entertainment on offer includes a disco, bar, ‘freeze frame’ photo booth, enchanted characters, balloon drop, themed decor and a whole lot more! To follow the theme of the evening, dress code is smart/formal but with the addition of something white. Doors open at 8.00pm and the ball closes at 1.00am. Tickets, which are priced £16 for adults and £10 for children aged 4-13, can be obtained in person from Chipping Sodbury Tourist Information Centre or online from www. sodburyevents.com Looking ahead to 2015, you’ll need to be quick if you want to see the pantomime Hansel & Gretel. Presented by the ever popular and talented Sodbury Players, tickets for Ross Brown & Grant McCotter’s version of the old German fairy tale have been selling quickly. Running from 17th to 24th January, tickets costing £9 can be purchased online at www.sodburyplayers.org.uk or by calling 0844 332 0230. Another event to look for in January is organised by the Chipping Sodbury Music Society which was founded in 1947 to encourage the appreciation of music with talks, lectures and gramophone recitals. On Tuesday 27th January, they are presenting a recital featuring Alicia Chaffey – piano. The event begins at 7.30 and tickets, priced £13.50, are available from TicketSource.

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OUG

H T

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T H

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with

Stephen Newell Zion Church

Looking Forward to Christ I guess it is inevitable that we all look forward to different things at this time of year. Even though the nights are dark and wet, December seems to bring an air of expectation. The adverts, our diaries and planners all focused around the idea that something good is happening. Of course expectations and reality can be very different things. High expectation can lead to great disappointment, and so a new year often begins with a sense of drudgery or disappointment. Even Christmas itself, now so commercialized, leaves many hungry for something; even though most bellies are amply filled. Please don’t misunderstand me; I have no desire (just yet) to don my LED illuminated, Bah Humbug hat! (available

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on a wet November evening in Yate!) I love Christmas, I love the celebration, the food, the festival, the family and all the trappings that goes with it. I just wonder if perhaps we sometimes miss the simple beauty of Christmas when we let expectations get out of hand. One of the great things about Christmas is that it does give a rhythm to the year as a whole. I don’t know whose idea it was to put Christmas at the darkest, wettest time of year, but I love them! [For any biblical scholars out there, we really do have no evidence that Jesus was born on Dec 25th just that it has become his ‘official’ birthday.] To have a celebration at the bleakest time of year is pure genius, and it fits so well… into the darkness comes the light. Every year needs a rhythm a routine that helps us to understand and make sense of things. Without that, there is simply chaos and disorder, each day another day, come from nowhere and leading nowhere. However add in the rhythms of Sabbath weekends and festivals and each day or month may begin to find its place. For me I look forward to meeting Christ at Christmas. That annual reminder that something utterly beyond us touched the world in such a down to earth way is simply stunning. A mucky stable and a tired mother in a dubious marital situation struggling through a busy neighbourhood simply explode any false ideas we may have of a separation between sacred and secular. It is so ordinary and messy, and so profound: the light has touched the darkness. Every tacky Christmas light or decoration can be redeemed because they point to something so fundamental. Meeting Christ means that nothing is ordinary anymore. Every tiny act of kindness becomes an epiphany, God is in there somewhere. Although I don’t always meet Christ where I expect to at Christmas, I am rarely disappointed. The season itself seems to generate the possibility of kindness, and it comes in so many forms. I hope you also look forward to meeting

December, 2014

someone special this Christmas. One of the richest ideas in Christianity is that whenever we greet or welcome a stranger, or indeed a friend we may somehow be greeting or meeting Christ. Christmas suggests that God touches this world in the most ordinary of people, perhaps he may touch the world through you this Christmas Finally I know that all your churches in Frampton and Coalpit Heath would make you very welcome if you wished to join us to celebrate Christmas, whether you want the calm of a midnight communion or the explosion of joy and laughter on Christmas day, you would be very welcome.

Stephen 13th Dec : 10.30am Carol singing outside post office Coalpit Heath (refreshments to follow) 20th Dec: 10.30am Carol singing outside Frome valley farm shop (refreshments to follow)

B-BARBERED Traditional and Modern Gent’s Barbers OAP SPECIAL - EVERYDAY

www.buddhaworks.co.uk E-MAIL

buddhaworks@live.co.uk

72 Bradley Avenue Winterbourne BS36 1HS Opening Times: Mon 0900-1630 n Tues, Wed, Fri 0900-1730 n Thurs 0900-1800 n Sat 0800-1300 n No appointment necessary

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Buses from Frampton Cotterell

To Yate 6 buses every hour* Example Fare ÂŁ1.50 46, X46, 47, 81, 82

To Bristol 4 buses every hour* Example Fare ÂŁ3.50 46, X46, 47

For help planning your journey visit:

www.travelwest.info

*Frequencies quoted are based on Mon-Fri off peak daytime services.

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December, 2014

How to get the ‘supermodel look’

Electric cars have something of a chequered past, but it would seem as though car makers have decided they may be the way forward as they look to burnish their green credentials, and provide cheaper motoring. Voice editor Richard Drew went for a silent spin in one offering from Renault and became the centre of attention.

The Renault Twizy

ow I know what it must be like to be a supermodel. Everywhere I went, people I passed gave me

backward glances, a broad smile on their faces. The Renault Twizy does that to people. It’s just a blast. If you are a shy person this is not a car for you, because complete strangers come up and marvel at this odd looking thing. Almost everyone loves it. Local primary school kids declared it ‘sick’ and ‘wicked’ (this is apparently a good thing). Workers on cigarette breaks gave me big grins and thumbs up signs. Everywhere you went, you could feel eyes trained on you. Even when it was parked up, passers by would gather and have a look around it. It was the most fun I’ve had in a car in a long time. Well, I say it’s a car, but this is more like a souped up milk cart; a golf buggy on steroids. I guess it’s not a proper car when the doors cost extra, but then it’s not supposed to be a normal car. It’s a run about for nipping to the shops

for a pint of milk and a paper, it’s the perfect thing when getting into the car seems a hassle, but walking or cycling seems a bit like too much effort. It’s undoubtedly small, Renault claim you can get three in a normal parking space. Yet when you drive the thing, it feels much bigger. There’s no doubting it’s basic. Your automatic gears aren’t a stick, but three buttons on the dash, and the handbrake is a handle under the dash. Even if you’ve splashed out on doors, there are no side windows, but the front window is man enough to keep you from the rain. If you’re looking for storage space, this might not be for you. There’s a fiddly space behind the passenger seat which you have to unlock and two deep wells on the dash. Otherwise you can use the passenger seat behind you, which is big enough for a few bags of

shopping. The passenger seat is behind the driver, nestled up in the back wall. Leg room consists of having to put them either side of the driver. It can be a struggle to get out of. Despite that, you’d be surprised the amount of people who wanted a ride. Both my kids insisted on being ferried to school in it. The primary school secretary whooped with delight the whole time she was whisked around the block. Even my neighbour put dignity to one side and had a go. You don’t have to be a rocket scientist to realise that there are drawback, but the thing is so much fun they can be easily forgiven. It drives like a go-kart, except it’s much quicker off the mark. It can reach speeds over 50mph, and I quite happily nipped down main roads at 40mph. It’s stable and corners brilliantly thanks to the

The Inner Wheel Club of Chipping Sodbury invite you to:

HUMAN PLANET : THE PEOPLE An evening with Dale Templar, producer of the BBC landmark series Human Planet

Elm Park School –

Governor Vacancies Take a fascinating look behind the scenes of this double BAFTA winning series and hear of Dale’s adventures with Bear Grylls, Chris Tarrant, Jonathan Ross and other famous people

Friday 6th March 2015 Chipping Sodbury Town Hall at 7.30pm

ALL PROCEEDS IN AID OF THE JESSIE MAY TRUST

A local charity providing hospice care for children at home

Tickets £10 from 01454 311617 or 01454 853346 Bar available

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Elm Park School provides education for around 300 children. It provides a nurturing environment, where children are motivated and enthusiastic about their development. It has a dedicated team of professionals who strive to develop pupils to their maximum potential. We are currently looking for a number of new recruits to our team of Governors. We are looking for members of the community who have skills and experience that may contribute to our Governing body and school. For example skills associated with Accountancy, Health and Safety, Human Resources, IT/ Website design, Education, Project Management and Special Needs. All candidates must be competent at working effectively as part of a team to support and challenge the school leadership. If you would be interested in joining our team, please call the school office on 01454 866750 for further information. Elm Park Primary School, Nicholls Lane, Winterbourne, Bristol, BS36 1NF.

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December, 2014

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positioning of the wheels outside the body of the car. It looks strange and stylish at the same time. I particularly like the exposed suspension, which gave it a bit of a beach buggy vibe. You can’t help but drive it like a beach buggy either. Renault reckons this runabout can do around 60 miles on a full charge, but it never will, because you are never going to drive it as smoothly as the Zoe. I don’t mean you drive it recklessly, but it is made to nip and zip and have fun in. Just as well then that the Twizy charges off a three pin plug, the cable for which is neatly tucked in the front of the car. This means you can charge it almost anywhere. If the publicity blurb from Renault is to believed this is a city car for young trendy folk. I think it’s fun for anybody. It may not turn you into a supermodel, but it will get people staring.

Got News? Call Richard 0n 01454 800 120

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Children urged to be safe and be seen FRED the Ted and officers from South Gloucestershire’s road safety team are urging children to ‘Be Safe, Be Seen’. They are visiting school assemblies with their safety campaign and recently visited The Tynings School in Staple Hill. Fred’s message includes: • Be bright morning or night • Make sure you can be easily seen, especially at night, on dark days and in bad weather • Bright or fluorescent clothes show up best by day, especially in dull or misty weather • By night, reflective material is best and shows up in car headlights • It is against the law to cycle at night without a white front light, a red back light and a red rear reflector • Always use a safe crossing point • Use the Green Cross Code: Stop, Look, Listen • At night, use well-lit routes and cross at well-lit places.

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December, 2014

Volunteers wanted to look after Frampton End Road Help is being sought to spruce up a road recently closed to traffic. Frampton End Road was legally closed earlier this year following a 5 year battle including a petition signed by over 760 local residents. Now the road is closed, walkers, cyclists and horse riders are able to enjoy safer use of this narrow, picturesque country lane in the Frome Valley. It hasn’t been all plain sailing with broken gates and complaints of ‘swarms’ of cyclists causing dangers for other users. Now Coalpit Heath resident and veteran cyclist Alan Bracey is hoping to form a group of local volunteers to help keep Frampton End Road clean and tidy for all to enjoy. Alan says; “I cycled through Frampton End Road this morning and for the second day running Streetcare are cutting back the hedges and making a very good job of it. I look forward to being part of a regular team to keep it clean. Believe me, this road is now a

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All ages are enjoying using Frampton End Road now it is closed to traffic real pleasure to ride”. If you would like to be part of the ‘Frampton End Road tlc

Team’, please contact Alan on 01454 772837 or email him at: aljenbracey@blueyonder.co.uk

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December, 2014

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ESTSH IN N MO BFUTS HE

B OF

SINE U E MO

Claire Isaac

Viaduct Florist Nature might be taking a breather in December, but florist Claire Isaac, owner of Viaduct Florist, is always busy. She used to have a shop in Frampton Cotterell, but our business of the month is thriving at the Viaduct Nurseries.

How did you become a florist?

I became a florist purely by accident. I was asked to cover for 2 weeks whilst my mum who is also a florist was away on holiday and never left.

What qualities to you need to be a good florist?

You need to be artistic and enjoy what you do. I don’t mind working in the cold in the winter. Good communication skills and good organisation helps too.

What are the most popular flowers you sell?

I guess they would be lillies, gerbera, roses, alstromeria , as

I do seem to get through a lot of these.

What is the best time of year to be a florist?! I enjoy it all year round to be honest because as the seasons change there is always something different to work with. In the spring there are tulips and daffodils to work with. during the summer there’s a variation of flower and colour. In the autumn there are a lot of rustic flowers and foliage, and at Christmas it’s holly, ivy, spruce and lots of holly wreaths, table displays and festive bouquets.

How has the move to the viaduct nurseries gone?

This has gone incredibly well. I could not have done it with out the support I have had from

everyone. A business wont succeed without the custom and obviously the viaduct is a lovely place with great surroundings to work in. I feel at home here and everybody who works on site and the allotment owners have made me feel very welcome.

You’ve been part of village life for a long time, what do you like about the area?

I grew up and have worked and lived in Frampton and Coalpit heath for the best part of my life. It’s a great area and I know a lot of people. Some are like me and have lived here forever; others are new but everyone seems to gel really well. It’s good for my business, being local, as its helps get me work and people trust you. I have seen a lot of changes around the area over

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the years but think its still a safe and attractive place to live.

What’s the best thing about your job?

Getting to do what I enjoy every day, and when people are happy with the work you produce.

And the worst?

I don’t really have any, apart from maybe working in a cold environment in the winter

What plans do you have for the future? Well I am quite happy as I am to be honest, earning money, enjoying what I do at a relaxed pace. I don’t want to be running an empire. I’m happy ticking over and providing good quality and service.

Within Viaduct Nursery Tel: 07730 660026

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

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fromevalleyvoice www.fromevalleyvoice.co.uk December, 2014 T: 01454 800 120 34 Minister visits composites HQ Local photographer moves into new premises www.fromevalleyvoice.co.uk

An empty shop on Church Road is to be used as a photographic studio. Emma Eirene Photography by Emma Rigarlsford specialises in fine art photography, including Newborn, Portrait, Maternity, Wedding, Event and Commercial. The business has been trading in Frampton Cotterell for almost 2 years, but is now to move to premises vacated by Jessica Alice in rooms behind a barber’s shop. Emma said; “This expansion is a huge step for both me and the business. For months, I have had so many ideas about what I would like to offer my customers but I haven’t had the space to do so. The opening of the new Emma Eirene Photography will mean that my customers will now be able to relax in a spacious and comfortable area.” Emma is to mark her new venture with an opening party on Saturday 3rd January 2015 between 2pm and 5pm, where anyone is welcome to pop in and take a look at the studio.

AN innovative racing yacht and lightweight road cars were on show when Business Secretary Vince Cable visited the National Composites Centre in Emersons Green. The aim was to demonstrate the type of products that can benefit from the advanced materials being developed at the centre. Dr Cable was joined by more than 400 guests when he formally opened the new £28 million facilities at the NCC. He said the centre was leading the way in developing composites, which are crucial to Britain’s aerospace and automotive industries among others. “Britain is historically very good at making scientific discoveries but not turning these ideas into businesses,” Dr Cable said. Peter Chivers, NCC chief executive, said, “We will work with companies to accelerate innovation and develop people to deliver commercially viable solutions.” The centre now has the world’s largest openly accessible, high rate manufacturing press for composites manufacturing. In its first week of factory trials, the press was able to produce car parts within six minutes. The centre is also at the forefront of training people to use the new technologies.

Emma in action

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December, 2014

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Council want your say on savings programme South Gloucestershire residents are being invited to have their say on the council’s budget and council tax for 2015/16. The council provides a wide range of services, and each year comments are invited on the council’s priorities and council tax levels for the coming year. This year the consultation also asks local people to consider the council’s new six-year savings programme, which aims to deliver savings of £36m by 2020. Savings of this scale, on top of previous savings of nearly £43m to be made as part of the council’s previous efficiency programme, will require significant changes to the services the council is able to provide in the future. The council is proposing that council tax levels are frozen again in 2015/16. Chair of the council’s Resources Sub-Committee Cllr John Goddard said: “We now have to look to the future and

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consider how we will adapt to further necessary savings of £36m by 2019/20. Savings of this scale, on top of those already delivered, will require big changes to our role and the services we provide as a council”. People can also share their views in the following ways: - By email: consultation@ southglos.gov.uk - By completing a consultation survey (available to complete online or download from the council website at www. southglos.gov.uk) - By writing to: FREEPOST Plus RTCT-JXLE-EET, South Gloucestershire Council, Corporate Research & Consultation Team, Budget Consultation, Civic Centre, High Street, Kingswood, BRISTOL, BS15 9TR - By telephoning 01454 868154. The consultation closes on 31 January 2015 and the results will be considered by full Council in February 2015.

Nominations sought for community awards A chance for volunteers to be recognised is being offered this month. The annual Chair’s Community Awards recognise and celebrate the valuable contribution local unpaid volunteers make to life in South Gloucestershire. This year’s celebration of community work and volunteering takes place in March and people have until Friday 9 January to tell South Glos Council about local ‘community heroes’. Suggestions for nominations include those who have contributed to community development, promoting equality, arts, sports, play, environment, working with older or young people, advice and advocacy or have simply been a good neighbour. Chairman of South Gloucestershire Council Cllr Howard Gawler said: “It is important to recognise the dedication of the many volunteers that give up their own time to bring our communities together and improve the lives of local people” You can nominate your community hero online at www. southglos.gov.uk/communityawards Alternatively, call 01454 863019 or email communityawards@ southglos.gov.uk

Retirement Living at Woodland Court

Retirement choice that’s right for you Woodland Court’s retirement living concept offers a new lifestyle alternative for older people. We provide you with the opportunity to enjoy genuine independence, together with the option to call upon professional care and support to suit changing needs. Living at Woodland Court allows you to live in your own home with a lifestyle of your choosing. For more information and to request a brochure, contact us by:

Phone: 0117 906 1400 Email: woodlandenquiries@brunelcare.org.uk

Post: Woodland Court, Partridge Drive (off Overndale Road), Downend, Bristol, BS16 2RF

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December, 2014

with Moira from the Willow Brook Clinic, Bradley Stoke

Ask the Physiotherapist: Why massage?

ecember is here and we are all aware of the stress that comes with that – presents to buy, functions to attend, meals to prepare and visitors to please – all sitting alongside the host of other responsibilities we have. We all have different methods of coping - some methods work, some don’t; some are good for us and some aren’t. This year, why not try massage as a remedy for the seasonal stresses we face? There’s no denying the power of massage. Regardless of the adjectives we use (pampering, rejuvenating, therapeutic) or the reasons we seek it (a luxurious treat, stress relief, pain management), massage therapy can be a powerful partner during demanding times. It is well known that stress can make us unwell. And perhaps nothing ages us faster, internally and externally, than stress. Completely removing anxiety and pressure in this fast-paced world is unrealistic, but massage can, without a doubt, help manage stress. Massage therapy can: decrease anxiety; enhance sleep quality; improve energy levels; increase

Annual One Day Harmony Singing Workshop Looking for something to start the New Year right? Love to Sing? Come along to our 2015 New Year workshop. By the end of the session you will have improved your vocal technique and learned to sing in glorious 4-part harmony. At the end of the day you will be invited to perform with Fascinating Rhythm for your friends and family! Experience the unforgettable – feel what it’s like to be part of a Big Show Choir

circulation; and reduce fatigue. Furthermore, people often report a sense of perspective and clarity after receiving a massage. Getting a massage can do you a world of good. And getting massage frequently can do even more. This is the beauty of massage. Taking part in this form of regularly scheduled self-care can play a huge part in how healthy you will be and how youthful you will remain with each passing year. Budgeting time and money for massage, at regular intervals, is truly an investment in your health. And remember just because massage feels like a pampering treat doesn’t mean it is any less therapeutic. Consider massage appointments a necessary part for your health and wellness plan, and work with your practitioner to establish a treatment schedule that best meets your needs. This December, and in the coming year, make a resolution to look after yourself a little, be a little selfish and give yourself a treat – book a massage!

Moira

£60

£80

Saturday 17th January 2015 The Castle School, Park Road, Thornbury,BS35 1HT 10:00am – 4:00pm: Registration 9:30 am. £12 per person – tea/coffee/biscuits included plus cakes to buy to eat & take home. (Please bring your own lunch).

EARLY BIRD BOOKING (by 19th December 2014). Block bookings of four or more and Friends of FR (previous workshop delegates) Only £10 per person. Limited places – please book early. Closing date for bookings Friday, 2nd January 2015 For further information and to book your place please email Linda: taylin4@hotmail.co.uk To find out more about us visit www.fascinating-rhythm.com Whatever your singing ability be assured of a warm welcome. You’ll have an inspiring day with like-minded people.

SHOWTIME! Family & friends 3:30pm till 4:00pm Bring out your inner Diva & boost your feel-good factor for 2015 !

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JACK LOPRESTI MP

Member of Parliament for Filton and Bradley Stoke Jack holds surgeries on Fridays at different locations across the constituency - to make an appointment please contact: 01454 617 783 jack.lopresti.mp@parliament.uk Jack’s drop-in constituency office is at 2B, 1st Floor East, The Willowbrook Centre, Savages Wood Road, Bradley Stoke, Bristol BS32 8BS Open 9-6 weekdays

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Children in Need superheroes

Council offers help to warm up houses

Superheroes for Children in Need: Pupils and staff from Watermore Primary School dressed up to raise money for the BBC charity. The superhero idea was organised by the School Council and raised £445.

South Glos council has launched a new initiative called Warm Up South Gloucestershire to help improve heating and insulation in rented properties in the area. The council is offering landlords significant help to improve inefficient properties in a bid to protect tenants against cold, draughty houses. Warm Up South Gloucestershire is designed to make homes cosier, healthier places to live by offering measures ranging from heating upgrades and cavity wall insulation to loft insulation, draught proofing and double glazing. There is also a limited amount of additional support available to landlords for installing a new gas connection if required. The initiative applies to landlords who own properties with an F or G energy rating, which means they’re very energy inefficient, and offers two thirds off, up to a maximum of £3,000, for home improvement.

Christmas Parties at the

Thursday, December 11 Saturday, December 13 Sunday, December 14 Thursday, December 18 Friday, December 19 Saturday, December 20

4-5.30pm 11-12.30pm & 2-3.30pm 11-12.30pm & 2-3.30pm 4-5.30pm 11-12.30pm & 4-5.30pm 11-12.30pm & 2-3.30pm

Food • Games • Disco • Santa present —

£7.00

114a Badminton Road, Coalpit HeatH, BS36 2SZ tel no: 01454 501312 | email: viaductnurseries@ymail.com | website: www.viaductnurseries.co.uk

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December, 2014

Our binge drinking reputation

Holly Sawyer is a Sixth Form student at WIA and aspiring journalist. Alongside studying for her A levels, Bristol-born Holly has a passion for sharing news and blogging. At the tender age of 17 she is new to the journalism world, but has certainly put her foot in the door. Holly has her own blog, runs an independent student magazine and writes for a popular online website which helps those wondering about University. Holly enjoys filmmaking, writing and aspires to work in news broadcasting.

A NEW monitoring system has shown Frome Valley Medical Centre in Frampton Cotterell to be of low concern to the health and social care regulator. For the first time, information on every GP practice in England has been analysed and published by the Care Quality Commission (CQC) to help it decide how it should prioritise its inspections of

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each drink, let alone the lasting effect on my body. Our introduction to drinking is different to our elders; rather than enjoying a quiet drink with the family over a Sunday roast, we tend to be with our peers, who also have poor knowledge over what is actually happening to our bodies. Every teenager has probably suffered at the hands of peer pressure at some point in their lives. The new phenomenon of ‘predrinks’ means topping up with cheap alcohol at home, with teens drinking excessively in a safe environment. Surprisingly, we aren’t all like this. Not every person under the age of 21 downs a bottle of wine in less than 20 seconds with the helping hand of the strawpedo technique; rather I prefer a quiet night in with a hot chocolate and a face mask. It’s easy to place all of your eggs in one basket with regards to teenagers and binge drinking, but if you worry about who your child is hanging around with, remember everyone is young at some point. Rather than slating our manners, perhaps you should enlighten us on how to drink responsibly?

Regulator’s low concern for Frampton Cotterell GP practice

Have a view on a local issue?

eing a young person comes with many stereotypes. Many of which are false, but not all of them. One of these myths is that we teens love to drink; pottering around the streets in our clunky high heels, swaying side to side with a bottle in each hand. Don’t think that I’m trying to dispel this ideology as many young people love to live in this ‘binge drinking’ culture. Alcohol is something we have easy access to nowadays. Whether that is by rummaging through parents cupboards, or being served underage, we can get what we want. Teens have a reputation of drinking to get drunk, rather than enjoy the actual taste, but where is the boundary between these two? Being ‘drunk’ gives youngsters a perception of the world we just don’t have without a bit of alcohol infused fun. We can totter around without a care in the world, enjoying the friendly company of others without fretting about our personal statements or looming coursework deadlines. Perhaps we haven’t been educated in how to drink in moderation. I personally have next to no knowledge about how many units are in

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surgeries. Although a full assessment of each practice will only be made once an inspection has been completed, the analysis indicates what services appear to be doing well and where people may not be getting the best care. The monitoring process involves 38 indicators on whether patients could be “at risk” or at “elevated risk” beyond what would be expected normally. The CQC then placed every practice into a band ranging from one to six – level one for those where there is the highest perceived concern and level six for those with the lowest perceived concern. Frome Valley Medical Centre is in band six – one of nearly 3,800 practices in the lowest category. At the other end of the scale, those surgeries in bands one and two will be considered for inspection from next year. The CQC used evidence on patient experience, care and treatment for its monitoring,

Frome Valley medical centre

based on sources that included surveys and official statistics. Now it plans to spend the next two years inspecting and rating every GP practice in England to help people make decisions about their care and to encourage improvements. Professor Steve Field, the chief inspector of general practice, said: “While it is positive that more than 80 per cent of general practices are currently a low concern based on the available data, there is no reason for complacency and standards must continue to improve.”

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around the WI News from Winterbourne Evening WI In December we are inviting members from other WI’s in our Group to come and join us for a Christmas meeting with home grown entertainment. This will include singing, dancing, a fun quiz, a short soliloquy and other entertainment, plus lots of wonderful food provided by members. A fun evening with wine available, leading up to Christmas. Our Annual meeting was a great success. Unusually, most members attended and enjoyed a very social evening from arranging the furniture differently, to being entertained by smart young ladies from Boot’s cosmetic department. Two new committee members were elected although this still leaves one place that hopefully will be filled during the year. Carol Shield was re-elected as President. The annual report was read and approved and all the usual Group and County activities dealt with. The finances are in a healthy state thanks to our hard working treasurer, and members who participate in events to raise funds. We have 59 members most of whom take part in activities and at this meeting we had a sales stall. We also had sacks for members to contribute items to The Children’s Hospice South West where we had visited earlier in the year. Three sacks were filled and were well received by the Hospice for their shops. A Merry Christmas to all our members, friends, and neighbours.

News from Coalpit Heath WI We have lots going on in Coalpit Heath over the Christmas and New Year festive period. Our annual carol service will be held on 17th December at St Saviours at 7.30 pm and everyone is welcome to come along and join in the singing and sample the mince pies. Our Christmas craft evening on 3rd December was organised by Jacquie Dean, with a craft demonstration and then a chance to get hands–on, to see if it was as easy as Jacquie made it look. The winner of our Christmas hamper was announced, ladies made mincemeat, jams and chutneys as well as a delicious Christmas cake (thanks Pat). We were delighted to receive so many Operation Christmas Child boxes (we stopped counting at 60), we had set ourselves a target of 50 so were very pleased that so many ladies made the effort to produce fabulous boxes – for such a good cause. Members of Knit and Natter and Trefoil Guild also joined in and it was nice to see them at our November meeting. Our November meeting saw Judy Eke (current President) handover the reins to Catherine Proudlove, with Tracy Bell and Wendy Freeman also joining the committee (as Rosemary Knight and Jude Wakeford were retiring from their positions). Judy Eke will remain on the committee in a new role, and Jennie Mitchell, Sue Keel and Emma Hendy were also re-elected. Rather than

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prepare a resignation speech Judy Eke resigned by poem, which was very well received. Autumnal crafts competition was won by Debbie Reynolds with a beautiful quilt for a baby’s cot. Other crafts entered included jewellery making, knitting and crafts in jars. The January meeting on 7th has a Scottish theme, there will be Scottish food, music and a quiz. For those feeling a bit more energetic we are going to try our hands at a spot of curling. Our competition will involve baking for “The Great Scottish Bake-Off” and then obviously tasting! Everyone has been challenged to come in tartan. New members welcome to join in the celebrations.

News from the Frampton Cotterell WI Our Annual Meeting took place on 25th November, where we reviewed the past year and also the new committee was announced. We’re pleased to announce that Rosey Simpkins has been elected as President, Rosey will be taking over from Mrs. Veronica Cutland who will be stepping down having done a fantastic job as President for the group for the last 3 years. Some members hosted stalls with displays of crafts, festive gifts and Aloe Vera skincare products that were on sale on the evening, so it was also a great opportunity to catch up with some Christmas shopping! We have an eventful December ahead - the WI book club has been reading Hilary Mantel’s “Bring Up The Bodies”, the second in a planned trilogy following Wolf Hall, following the career of Sir Thomas Cromwell in Tudor times. This is all quite timely as Wolf Hall is currently being filmed in and around Bristol for transmission in the new year. The book club will also be getting together for their Christmas meal in early December. Also, on 11th December, some members will be meeting up at St. Peters Hall for a craft session to make festive floral tabletop decorations. As a part of this year’s festive celebrations, Frampton Cotterell WI members will be gathering for the annual carols and mince pies evening on Tuesday 16th December, as well as decorating a Christmas tree for the St.Peter’s Christmas Tree event. Other events coming up in the New Year include talks on pearls and pearl jewellery, and news on an inspiring community project in Kenya– also the Frampton WI Annual Dinner will be held in February at Chipping Sodbury Golf Club. There are also a number of interesting Avon Federation events coming up in 2015, including an Evening with Michael Portillo and a Craft Dabble Day, also in February. Next year is the Centenary of the formation of the WI in 1915 and so there will be various celebrations and events taking place both nationally and locally to commemorate this important WI birthday – look out for details for these and other meetings, social events etc. on our Facebook page – just search FramptonCottWI. Potential new members are always welcome. We meet at St Peter’s Hall on School Road at 7.45pm, on the 4th Tuesday of the month. Visitors are charged at £2.50 and any new members join by paying the 2015 membership fee which also includes a subscription to WI Life magazine.

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Photography group looks for new members A popular photographic club is inviting new people to join. Kingswood Photographic Society has been running for over 60 years and says it aims to help photographers at all levels of ability and to be to provide friendly advice and support. Many of its members have gone on to achieve recognition both within its own club competitions held quarterly and also distinctions awarded by the Royal Photographic Society. Eric Pleydell of the KPS says; you may want to learn how to edit out some of those annoying features which always seem to appear where you don’t want them. We would like to offer the opportunity to come along to one of our well attended Friday evening meetings at St. Barnabas Church hall in Warmley. We promise you a warm and friendly welcome and the opportunity to see and listen to one of the many speakers from other clubs”. Meetings are held at 7.00pm for a 7.30 start on Friday evenings and there is a small charge of £3 per visit (up to three visits) which is refundable against a modest annual membership fee. You can find out more at www.kingswoodps.co.uk KPS can help you turn in stunning photos like this.

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December, 2014

The poppy display created by Year 7 students. Academy prinicpal Rob Evans is pictured with Grace Berry, Ellie Yeoman, Archie Brown, Joseph Hanham and Harriet Blake

Poppy display at academy STAFF and students of Winterbourne International Academy commemorated the centenary of the start of the First World War with a number of activities and acts of remembrance. A long bell sounded throughout the academy's new building at 11am on Armistice Day to mark the start of a two minute silence involving all 1,800 students. When the second bell sounded at 11.02am, 30 music students, scattered around the corridors of the new build, surprised their classmates with a 'flash mob' rendition of The Last Post. Christmas Menu Front 2014.pdf

28/08/2014

09:10

Starters Homemade Seasonal Soup, with Crusty Bread Creamy Garlic Mushrooms, Served on Crostini Toast Breaded Brie with Home-made Sweet Chilli Jam & Crusty Bread Homemade Chicken Liver Pate, Served with Toast & Cranberry Chutney

Main Course C

Slowly Braised Steak In a Rich Port Gravy Freshly Roasted Turkey, Served With Chipolata Wrapped in Bacon & Stuffing Stuffed, Rolled Belly Of Pork with, Cider, Cream & Whole Grain Mustard Pan Fried Fillet of Salmon with a Watercress Sauce Slow Roasted Parsnip, Cranberry & Chestnut Loaf

CMY

All Served With Roast Potatoes & Fresh Seasonal Vegetables

Desserts Homemade Christmas Crumble & Cream Homemade New York Style Lemon Cheesecake Traditional Victorian Christmas Pudding with Brandy Sauce Brandy Snap Basket with Clotted Cream Ice Cream & Winter Berries West Country Cheese Board with Apple & Homemade Chutney Add £3.00

£22.50 Three Course £18.95 Two Course A £10.00 deposit per person is required to secure your booking This menu is available from 1st - 24th December

Tel 01454 772330 Ryecroft Road, Frampton Cotterell, BS36 2HN

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Say no to gridlock

Steve Webb MP

writes for Frome Valley Voice

n addition to the significant new housebuilding that we have seen in and around Frampton Cotterell and Coalpit Heath in recent years, our area will also be affected by the thousands of new houses likely to go up in the Yate area. As part of the target of more than 30,000 new homes in South Gloucestershire by the mid 2020s, North Yate in particular could see several thousand more homes. This is in addition to the hundreds that have gone up on the old ‘Sea Stores’ site (now called Elswick Park), on the old Coopers Factory site on the Westerleigh Road, and those already consented at Peg Hill. If nothing is done, this massive development will not only bring Yate to a halt but will have a major knock-on effect on the roads through Coalpit

Heath, Frampton Cotterell and Winterbourne. Yet, amazingly, South Gloucestershire Council appears to have no strategic plan to put in place a new public transport infrastructure for the area that will help us all to cope with this increased population. That is why I have joined forces with my Council colleagues to establish the ‘Let’s Get Yate Moving’ campaign. The overall demand is for the Council to come up with a blueprint to make sure that the whole area does not end up in gridlock as a result of all the extra housing. In addition, we are calling for a number of specific measures including: A new Park and Ride, adjacent to the new South Gloucestershire Council offices on the Badminton Road; For the Yate-Bristol suburban line to be included in the electrification project for the Great Western mainline; Improved bus services,

including those serving the estates to the North and South of Yate; at present many people living in these residential areas do not use the buses because they either have no car (and therefore cannot get to the town centre to catch a bus) or because there is nowhere to park in the town centre if they do want to catch a bus; Whilst the immediate focus of the campaign is on keeping Yate moving, there is no doubt that reduced car volumes through this area and improved public transport would be of great value to a much wider community, including those living in Frampton Cotterell and Coalpit Heath. If you would like to support the campaign you can do so online at: http://letsgetyatemovingldthornburyandyate. nationbuilder.com or you can e-mail me with your views to steve@stevewebb.org.uk or write to Poole Court, Yate, BS37 5PP.

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December, 2014

November blues for Frampton Athletic Frampton Athletics first team endured a tough month in November, as they were knocked out of the League Cup and also lost points to their title rivals. The loss in the league cup came at the hands of local rivals, Brimsham Green. The game was played at Beesmoor Road, but Frampton never really managed to get into the game and went down to a 1-0 defeat. Frampton were given a week’s rest after their cup exit, as the rain fell and pitches were waterlogged, meaning all games were called off. Frampton did manage to get a few more games in, despite the constant wet weather. A thrilling game at home against Bristol Manor Farm saw Frampton take a 3-2 lead, only for their opposition to come back in spectacular fashion and take the game 5-3. This is despite Bristol Manor Farm being reduced to 10 men shortly after Frampton took the 3-2 lead. Manager, Adrian Pell, couldn’t hide his frustration and was lost for words after the game. Thankfully, Frampton put their disappointment behind them in the following game, as they put 5 goals past Patchway Town Reserves, who could only

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score a solitary goal in replay. Frampton finished the month with a third round tie in the GFA Senior Amateur Cup against Avonmouth FC from the Bristol & Suburban Leagues. The match provided a stern test for Frampton, but the result was never in doubt, as 2 goals from Matt Simons and another from captain Marc Hughes, was enough to secure a 3-1 victory. Frampton’s December schedule sees them face Brislington Cricketers, DRG Frenchay and Roman Glass St George before the players are given a week off to celebrate Christmas. Adrian Pell will be looking for his side to take the full 9 points out of these games, but with 2 of the 3 games being away from home, it might be a tough ask. The wet November rain caused more pain for Frampton’s reserve side, who saw 3 out of their scheduled 5 games postponed due to the weather. Following a weather enforced 3 week break, Frampton’s reserve side resumed their league campaign against a stubborn Chipping Sodbury Reserves side. Chipping Sodbury ran out 3-1 winners on the day, but the game was not without controversy, with Chipping Sodbury’s first goal being scored with the attackers forearm, which was

missed by the match officials and the goal was given, much to the fury of the Frampton players. Frampton Reserves’ only other game in November was on Saturday 29th November, with a home game against Cribbs ‘A’. Frampton provided a dominant performance to see off their opponents with a 4-1 victory, somewhat helped by Cribbs going down to 10 men just before half time, but Frampton were by far the better side on the day. Frampton Reserves have got 2 home games to look forward to in December, against Bradley Stoke Town and St Pancras, with an away game against Bendix sandwiched in between. The game against Bradley Stoke Town is a particular highlight, as Frampton will be looking for some vindication, following the 11-3 hammering that they received in the reverse fixture. Frampton’s Academy side also only had 2 games in November, which was partly due to the weather, but they were also given a week off after being knocked out of the GFA Cup in controversial fashion. After drawing 2-2 with Port of Bristol on Saturday 1st November, the Academy had a 2 week break before facing Hanham Athletic Colts at Vicarage Road, Hanham. The game was a tight affair, which

saw the home team awarded 2 penalties at either end of the game; the first was fired over the bar, the second was tucked away neatly. However, that was Hanham’s only goal of the goal and was a merely consolation, as Rob Warren scored twice and the home team goalkeeper scored an own goal earlier in the game to make Frampton 3-1 winners. Frampton’s Academy side will be looking for a minimum of 6 points from their 3 games in December, as they face 3 out of the 4 bottom teams in their division; Greyfriars Athletic ‘B’, Hanham Athletic Colts and Seymour United ‘A’. For weekly match reports, stats and fixtures, check out the Frampton Athletic website at www.framptonathleticfc.co.uk or follow them on Twitter @ FramptonAthFC, or find the club on Facebook. • Sport Relief HQ have (finally!) released the official figures for the amount raised in March this year. The participants of the Frampton Athletic FC Mile raised a fantastic £4,317.68 in total at the event, which is more than three times the previous total of £1,327. The club would like to thank all those who took part in the event for raising this fantastic total through sponsorship and kind donations.

Up for the cup as Coalpit Heath head into December Coalpit Heath FC’s teams have a lot to look forward to this month, with cup action very much the focus as Jeremy Kinsman reports Three of our teams going into December with GFA Cup success still a reality. Our Under 12’s team managed by Nick Kinsman enter the month still unbeaten this season and will face Division One Mangotsfield on the 14th December. The tie comes as a result of overcoming a battling Almondsbury Sports 2-0 at the end of November with two goals by inform striker Issac Flynn. Goalkeeper Owen Brimmicombe was the hero of the day for the Under 16’s saving four penalties in an exciting shoot out which saw the Oranges cause a cup upset with a win over high flying Stoke Lane Athletic from Division One after penalties. The game ended 1-1 after 90 minutes with Caleb Foley scoring for Coalpit. Next up in the cup for the Under 16’s is a difficult away tie to Bristol Central on December 7th, although Manager Dave Davies and his players will be confident of getting a successful result. The Under 18’s also caused a cup upset in

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the GFA cup tournament with Stoke Lane again the unfortunate victims. Chris ‘Cookie’ Cooke led the way with a hat trick, and the other goals from Dan Bastable-House, Fabian Pereira and Archie Kinsman saw the team storm to a 6-0 win against a team from a league above. As a result of this success Ali Higgins’ team now face a home tie with AEK Boco on December 7th Off the field the club are looking forward to hosting their Christmas Party on the 14th December at the British Legion Club for their primary school aged members where Santa Claus will be breaking off from his busy schedule to pay a seasonal visit. Superb raffle prizes will be on offer including tickets to a Bristol Rovers match. The club is going from strength to strength with over 200 members across our nine teams and our soccer tots. All budding footballers are welcome to come to training in their relevant age groups. Please contact Jerry Kinsman on 07812 045259 for training times.

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Netballers riding high in league Frampton 1st team took on Jets on Saturday 8th November, with a win giving Frampton top spot in the league. The attacking combination of Claire Fletcher (player of the match) and Kelli Catley fed direct sharp balls to Shooter Emily Harris who couldn’t miss, putting up shots from all over the circle with style and flair. The ladies had an easy 44-19 win. On Saturday 22nd November Frampton 1st’s came up against local rivals Bath Cougars, Bath had beaten the ladies twice last season and are potentially favourites to take the title again. This was an extremely tough, competitive game which was stopped by the umpire twice as tempers flared and fouls were committed. Frampton went down in the the 1st half but with a positive team talk by club coach Amy Warren the girls went out in the 3rd quarter with only a win on their minds. Defender and captain Carol Rowson and Amy Davidge prevented the Bath shooters from scoring by turning over lose balls and intercepting their passes. Fast positive attacks by the centre court players and the reliable shooting of the team meant Frampton finished this physically tough game bruised and a bit battered but with a 3732 win. This places the 1st team firmly

at the top of the table. Frampton 2nd’s went into their match on Sat 8th November against top of the league Bath Cougars in great unbeaten form. Bath had beaten other teams in the league by 40 points, so Frampton felt getting anywhere near this strong young team would be a result. Frampton battled hard with 50/50 possession of the ball, led by the strong attack of Anna Keir (player of the match) and Captain Jo Slee, but struggled converting all their chances into goals. The powerful defence of Mel Eke and Helen Woodbury-Eggins prevented Bath playing their normal attacking game and kept the score at 30-12, Frampton giving Bath their toughest game this season. On Sat 22nd November Frampton 2nds took on Easton Cowgirls, a strong, long established team. Frampton went down in the 1st quarter but got into their stride pulling away in the 2nd quarter. Some further tactical changes in the 3rd helped Frampton pull further away. Player of the match Helen Woodbury-Eggins in defence read the cowgirls attacks, allowing some sharp shooting by Sally Harding to help Frampton win 29-19. These results keep Frampton 2nd team at the top end of the Avon League table.

Frampton 1st team

Old Man Fram struggles indoors Frampton Cotterell’s indoor team have enjoyed mixed fortunes in the supercric8 winter league, as James Dickinson reports. After switching from Tuesday nights, they found the going tough in the ‘Wednesday’ league against some very strong teams including local rivals Bohemians and (Super) Coalpit Heath. After an early setback, the Fram put together a series of tight victories before slipping up at the end of the 10 week league. They do, however, still progress to the play off stages where they meet league title winners Bohemians. Super Heath Also progress after finishing 2nd in the table. -------------If you’re heading to the Frampton Balti on December 12, you should aim to get there early for fear of a papadam shortage, as The Fram will be celebrating another successful season with their annual Christmas Curry. -------------A number of Frampton players attended the Bristol & District League dinner recently where captain Gary Winsor collected the division 2 runners up trophy from ex Leicestershire and England wicketkeeper Paul Nixon. Nixon then regaled the assembled masses with a variety of tales from his career including his own take on the infamous Fredalo incident as well as offering a few choice opinions on the controversial ex-England batsman Kevin Pietersen!

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Frampton 2nd team

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Frampton Vets victorious again in French ‘Le Crunch’ challenge Frampton Cotterell vets have triumphed again in their AngloFrench game in Paris against The Old Wolves (Les Vieux Loups) of Parisis RFC. The relationship is a unique rugby experience that Frampton have been sharing with there French counterparts since 1977 . The vets play each other in November and Frampton juniors play every May. This years game was again a tight affair with Frampton winning 19-17 to retain the victory cup for the fourth year, reducing some of the French team to tears. The Eurostar ensured a smooth journey but the usual antics of the French to try and get as many of the Frampton players in no fit state for rugby soon ensued. Unfortunately Prop Mark Smith had a bad reaction to a certain cheese and a bout of travel sickness, but he did however rise from his sick bed to put a magnificent shift in the game. Mike Weaver also slotted

in behind Smith in the scrum as he recovered from the stomach muscle strains he suffered laughing at Smither the previous evening . On several occasions the referee struggled to control the players as Frampton tried to deal with French misdemeanours by matching their physicality. Despite an early try from the French, man of match Mike Ashwin raced away for a great try. Further tries from Mark Smith and Ricky Sheppard, plus kicks from Mark Chaplin and Mike Weaver put Frampton ahead further. A late rally saw Parisis nearly sneak a draw but the last kick of game was missed. The tour commitee of Weaver, Shepherd and Chaplin were thanked for organising the trip, despite leaving John Dean in London, nearly missing the Eurostar, losing the trophy and booking the Sunday carvery lunch on the way home in December not November .

WIA Students take double Bronze at National Swimming Championships

Principal Rob Evans and PE Teacher Patricia Lewis with bronze medalists (left to right) Jack Smith, James Webb, Samual Johnson, and Jedd Woodruff

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Four Year 8 boys from Winterbourne International Academy are celebrating after winning two medley bronze medals at the 57th ESSA Swimming Championships at the Olympic Aquatic Centre in London Jack Smith, Jedd Woodruff, James Webb and Samuel Johnson, qualified easily from their heats to reach the final of the Medley Relay against schools such as Millfield, and Charterhouse where they came third. In the Freestyle Relay the four students again qualified comfortably from the heats. In a swim that had the crowd on their feet, the team’s 4th swimmer overtook the rest of the pack to come in 3rd and secure their second Bronze medal of the day. Swimmer Jack Smith was glowing from their achievement, adding”It was a great team effort, and it’s amazing to come away with two medals”

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December, 2014

Frampton rugby round-up

Frampton Cotterell 1st XV 10 10 Cirencester

Scorers Tries: Isaac Stell, Matt Lawrence Coach Dave Ashwin saw his team defy the league table and form book with a truly gritty and dogged performance grabbing a draw with high flyers Cirencester. On first appearances this game looked like a tough afternoon for Frampton Cotterell, Cirencester having only lost to Cheltenham Saracens who beat Frampton by 30 points only 2 weeks ago. But this young Frampton side have been improving and learning game after game this season, and their concentration in defence was tested. With over 90% of the game played in Frampton’s half, the rare attacking chances had to be taken when they came along. Which is exactly what happened after 15 minutes when flankers Tom Johnson and Lee Poulton created the perfect turnover ball on Frampton’s line, quick passing left full back Isaac Stell to power over under the posts. This put Frampton on top for the remainder of the half. However with a couple of minutes remaining in the first half, Cirencester’s No12 slipped through the Frampton midfield and clicked on the afterburners, running in from 50 metres. Frampton just had time to launch one more attack, and with Cirencester offside at a ruck, Lawrence pounced with a quick tap and managed to sneak over from 2 yards. The second half was a very stop start affair, which suited

Frampton. However when second row Rory Woodland dived over a ruck thinking the ball was out he was shown his second yellow card of the game, meaning Frampton had to defend their lead for the final 15 minutes with only 14 men on the pitch. Cirencester managed to stretch Frampton’s reduced defence one final time and scored in the corner. Frampton Issac Stell on the way to the try line against Cirencester were then putting their bodies on the right, eventually Framptons and suddenly it was Saracens line for the last 5 minutes. Twice defence ran out of tacklers and looking stretched in defence, Cirencester went for kicks at the the Sarries right winger crashed with the last play of the half, posts to try and grab the win over in the corner. great pressure from centre Sam but both went wide of the mark, Frampton knew they had Warring saw him charge down and when the final whistle went to get back in the game quickly a clearance kick and gather the Frampton and their supporters and a couple of quick rucks ball to run in under the posts, celebrated as though they had saw Saracens offside, with converted by Lawrence, 15-10 won with a very important 2 Matt Lawrence converting the half time. points moving them up the penalty chance to make it 5-3. Unfortunately after half time, league table. Unfortunately from the kick off for 15 minutes some loose kicks Frampton failed to control the and lack of concentration in ball and quick thinking by the Frampton’s defence saw Saracens Cheltenham Saracens 53 v 15 Saracens scrum half saw them run in 5 unanswered tries. Frampton Cotterell RFC over the line again, 10-3. The Saracens full back was Saracens were then on top causing all kinds of trouble Playing down the slope and for the next 10 minutes, with with a superb turn of pace and with the wind in the first half Frampton flankers Tom Johnson dancing feet. Frampton started well against and Lee Poulton putting their For the remainder of the Saracens, driving deep in to their bodies on the line, kept them second half Frampton tried opponents 22 a number of times at bay until a driving maul got everything to try and get through in the the opening 10 minutes. Saracens over the line for a third the Saracens defence, Lawrence It was against the run of play try, again unconverted, 15-3 eventually scoring after a great when Saracens counter attacked, With ten minutes to go of the counter attack from Warring and sweeping the ball wide left then first half Frampton took charge, Ben Walker.

Matt Lawrence scores breaches Cirencester’s defences

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Josh Creed finds himself the centre of Saracens attention

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