Frome Valley Voice March 2024

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Youngsters from 1st and 2nd Frampton Beavers try out some of the new equipment at the play area in Ridings Road, Frampton Cotterell, which has undergone a £50,000 refurbishment.

Full story: Page 3

Buses are welcomed back

HUNDREDS of “forgotten” bus passengers in Coalpit Heath and Frampton Cotterell will have easier access to a bus from next month.

The First Bus Y6 service between Bristol to Chipping Sodbury, will now be diverted along Beesmoor Road, instead of the current route along Church Road.

The service is being re-routed to help with problems caused by closure of the Badminton Road

bridge over the M4.

Councillors and the area's MP have welcomed the news, saying it means hundreds of people in the two villages will have their buses restored.

The Y6 runs links Winterbourne, Frampton and Coalpit Heath to Bristol city centre via Cribbs Causeway, Bristol Parkway and Southmead Hospital in one direction, and Yate and Chipping Sodbury in the other.

Turn to page 3

Knife crime plea

A PRISON chaplain from Coalpit Heath has launched a new talking campaign to stop young people being dragged into knife crime.

PAGE 9

Council tax up

COUNCIL tax bills in the Frome Valley area will rise by up to £130 for average Band D homeowners.

PAGE 4

Traffic lights petition

A PETITION calling on South Gloucestershire Council to reinstate all turns at Hambrook traffic lights has gained more than 2,500 supporters.

PAGE 2

Maypole trail

SCHOOLS nurseries and children’s clubs are being invited to help brighten up Winterbourne Down for this year's village carnival.

PAGE 7

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April deadline

Our April deadline is March 20.

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Local information

South Gloucestershire Council

www.southglos.gov.uk

01454 868009

Safer Stronger team sscg@southglos.gov.uk

01454 868009

Anti social behaviour team asbreporting@southglos.gov.uk

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Streetcare/litter/vandalism etc streetcare@southglos.gov.uk Environment/trading standards 01454 868001

Complaints

Police

www.avonandsomersetpolice.uk

Fire

general enquiries: 101

www.avonfire.gov.uk

General enquiries: 0117 926 2061

NHS Health

Well Aware

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health & social care information

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Tel: (freephone) 0808 808 5252

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Petition calls for change at Hambrook lights junction

A PETITION calling on South Gloucestershire Council to reinstate all options for drivers using the Hambrook traffic lights has gained more than 2,500 supporters.

Moorend resident Angeline Gay launched the petition, titled "Reinstate Traffic Lights at Hambrook Junction for Efficient Commuting", on the change.org website in early February.

It calls for the council to allow drivers heading west on the A4174 to turn right towards Winterbourne and traffic heading north from Frenchay to be able to come straight across the junction.

Restrictions were first imposed in 2019 to cut nitrogen dioxide pollution to within legal levels.

Angie said the situation for the 200 households in Moorend and others further afield had got worse since the closure of the A432 Badminton Road bridge over the M4.

She said: "We have one way into Hambrook and one way out.

"This change not only adds

unnecessary time and distance to our daily commute but also increases fuel consumption and contributes to air pollution.

"The response to the petition has been really good.

"The comments are mainly pointing to how much disruption this is causing the community."

A council spokesperson said for the petition to be considered, a report with signatories’ details would need to be submitted directly to the authority.

The spokesperson said: "For the time being restrictions to traffic movements at Hambrook lights must remain in place. This is because roadside nitrogen dioxide levels must be compliant for at least a year.

"Recent data has shown significant improvements in the emissions at this location.

"We are not able to remove the restrictions until we can evidence to the Department for Transport and DEFRA that the emission levels are low enough and are not likely to increase."

The petition can be found online at tinyurl.com/fusdxhk5.

Woman dies in M4 crash

POLICE are calling for drivers to come forward if they have dashcam footage of a crash on the M4 near Hambrook, which claimed a woman's life.

The woman, who was in her 60s, died in a collision involving five vehicles on the westbound carriageway, between the M32 junction and the M4 Almondsbury interchange.

It happened shortly before 1pm on February 10.

A police spokesperson said the woman died at the scene of the collision, adding: "Her next of kin has been informed and our thoughts are with them at this time."

The woman had not been named as the Voice went to print.

Police have called on any

witnesses or motorists with footage that could help their investigation to call 101 and quote the incident reference number 5224 036 088.

Police are also investigating a collision in Pilning, in which a man in his 20s died.

Emergency services were called to Station Road at about 1.40am on the morning of Sunday February 25 after reports that a van had collided with a parked vehicle.

A spokesperson said the man, who is believed to have been the only occupant of the van, died at the scene.

Anyone with information should call 101, quoting the incident reference number 5224 049 045.

A member of the

Beavers work hard and play hard

A FRAMPTON Cotterell play area has reopened after a £50,000 refurbishment project.

Youngsters from 1st and 2nd Frampton Beavers and Cubs joined in the opening event in Ridings Road, and gave the climbing frame, slide, swings and roundabout a test run.

They also helped Frampton Cotterell Parish Council estates and amenities officer Steve Bassett plant bulbs, trees and hedges around the play area.

Frampton Cotterell Parish Council chair Linda Williams, who cut the ribbon to officially reopen the play area, said: “The old play area here has been completely updated and revamped.

“The credit for the building and designing of the new play area goes to playground designers KOMPAN.

“They used the comments and suggestions from the survey that the parish council put out and residents answered – and this is the result.”

Some of the equipment was made with recycled materials.

It was paid for by a £50,000 grant from waste and recycling company Suez’s community

fund.

A spokesperson for the parish council said: “We would like to thank the local beavers group who joined us at this event and were fantastic at helping us plant bulbs, trees, plants and hedgerows at the play area.

“This planting at Ridings Road coincides with the council’s wider planting scheme for the area. We hope that the native-mix hedgerow used will provide shelter and habitats for local wildlife, whilst helping

to keep children (and footballs!) safely within the boundaries of the play area.”

Bus company has 'listened to people's concerns'

From page 1

From April 7 the bus will serve Beesmoor Road and Heather Avenue, Park Lane and Bridge Way instead of travelling straight along Church Road.

A First spokesperson said: “In response to feedback and consultation with South Gloucestershire Council, the Y6 will now serve the St Saviour’s Church area of Coalpit Heath on every journey.

"This will provide a regular service to this area while the A432/M4 overbridge remains closed into 2025.”

Council leader and Frampton Cotterell ward councillor Claire Young said this meant a bus running through the middle of Frampton for the first time since the Y4 was scrapped in 2022.

She said : “The impact of the loss has been even greater since the closure of the A432/ M4 overbridge last summer, as the Y1 and Y2 have also been routed along Church Road, leaving hundreds of people in Coalpit Heath with a long walk to the bus.

“We are delighted Firstbus have listened

to local people’s concerns and made this change.”

MP Luke Hall, who said he had written to First to call for services to be redirected, also welcomed the change.

He said: “With all bus services centred around Church Road, the former bus route that served St Saviours, Beesmoor Road and Heather Avenue looked to have been forgotten, however First Bus have now confirmed a permanent and expanded change along this popular route.

“I am grateful to First Bus for listening to the community’s feedback and restoring service back along Beesmoor Road, Heather Avenue, and the surrounding neighbourhoods.”

National Highways says it will continue to fund the free shuttle bus along Badminton Road between Yate park and ride and Cuckoo Lane, in order to help people affected by the bridge closure.

The buses are run by Transpora Bus every 8-12 minutes, and passengers can walk across the M4 overbridge to connect to the Metrobus M3 and M3X services to

Emersons Green, UWE and Bristol city centre.

The service is due to be reviewed at the end of May.

South Gloucestershire Council says it is in talks with bus companies to look at future provision.

First says it is making "minor timetable changes" to the Y1 and Y2 services, which were diverted due to the bridge closure last summer, from April 7.

Full timetables had not been published as the Voice went to press but the company said the Y1 changes were to "improve punctuality, coordination to and from Bristol and evening provision" on the service between Bristol and Chipping Sodbury.

The Y2 changes were for the same reason, but in addition the last journey from Bristol on weekdays will now continue around the "North Yate loop" to Brimsham Park and Ladden Garden Village, rather than finishing at Yate Shopping Centre.

More details of changes from April 7 can be found online at tinyurl.com/ytaduamx M32 bus lane: Page 15

(Above) Parish council chair Linda Williams cuts the ribbon held by beavers, cubs and rainbows. (Right) Linda Williams with parish council estates and amenities officer, Steve Bassett, with some trees waiting to be planted

Average council tax bills rise

up to £130

COUNCIL tax bills for typical Band D householders in the Frome Valley area will rise by between £103 and £130 in April.

South Gloucestershire Council agreed a 4.99% increase – the maximum allowed without calling a referendum – at its meeting in February, to take its charge to residents with homes in the average Band D tax bracket up by £86.39, from £1,727.98 to £1,814.37.

Councillors also voted to bring in a series of charges, including for parking at councilrun car parks, which will raise an estimated £1.5 million every year, and a doubling of green bin charges from £30 to £60.

The rest of the increase in council tax bills comes from other public bodies.

Avon & Somerset's police and crime commissioner Mark Shelford is raising charges for a Band D taxpayer by £13 (4.88%) from £266.20 to £279.20.

Avon Fire Authority will raise its annual charge by £2.48 or 2.99%, to £85.43 in Band D.

However the final amount paid in different villages varies according to the services provided by parish councils, reflected in the both the parish precept charge, and 'special expenses' levied by South Gloucestershire Council for

neighbourhood facilities it maintains.

Town and parish councils are not subject to government restrictions on how much they can raise charges without calling a referendum.

In the Frome Valley, Frampton Cotterell has the highest precept and special expenses charges, with the result that the overall Band D council tax bill in the parish - £2,348.78 – is higher than in surrounding parishes, as it includes a £155.60 precept charge and £14.18 in special expenses.

Overall, council tax bills for residents in Band D homes in Frampton Cotterell will be £112.14 or 5.01% higher than last year.

The Band D precept charge has risen by £9.90 (6.79%) and special expenses by £0.37 for Band D – the other £101.87 is the increase in the other parts of the bill.

The overall amount the council raises from its council tax precept its up by 6.75%, from £381,303 to £407,041.

Council 'invests in children and cost-of-living support'

SOUTH Gloucestershire Council says its budget for the coming year prioritises "investments in children’s services and costof-living support", as well as taking action to combat climate change and protect the natural environment.

But the introduction of new charges – with pay and display car parking on the way, a £10 fee for disabled motorists' blue badges and a doubling in annual green bin subscriptions to £60 – has been slated by opposition Conservatives.

In its first budget since taking power in last year's local elections, the Liberal Democrat/ Labour coalition announced an extra £1 million for children’s services, continuing free school meal vouchers for 6,500 children during Easter and summer holidays, and funding debt and benefits advice to an extra 680 residents with "complex cases".

Energy efficiency schemes

for residents and landlords are designed to help deal with cost of living and environmental issues at the same time, while support is continued for Community Welcome Spaces, food banks and community pantries, and "warm packs" for people struggling with the cost of heating and eating.

A pilot scheme to expand youth services to support secondary schools is also being funded.

The budget for the next financial year, which begins in

Concern over charges and cuts

THE introduction of charges for council-owned car parks and on-street spaces was opposed by 70% of the 1,800-plus residents who responded to the council’s consultation on its budget.

Council-owned car parks include the Flaxpits Lane car park in Winterbourne, which has 50 standard parking bays, three for disabled drivers and one for motorbikes.

The council also owns the Yate Park & Ride in Badminton Road, which has more than 240 spaces, and the Abbotswood, Cranleigh Court Road, Kennedy Way, Longs Drive, and Yate Leisure Centre car parks, which between them have more than 300 spaces.

Privately-owned shopping centre car parks, such as Yate Shopping Centre, Willow Brook in Bradley Stoke and the Mall at Cribbs Causeway are not affected.

Campaign group Equalities Voice has warned that the £10 fee for disabled drivers to

apply for or renew a blue badge every three years, which will raise an extra £46,000 income each year for the council, "will likely isolate an already isolated community of people, and put further strain on transport companies to cater to the needs of disabled individuals".

The council says the extra income means fewer cuts have to be made to essential public services.

However union Unison says cuts of £473,000 to libraries and £79,000 to the contact centre and One Stop Shops, by cutting opening hours, and £641,000 a year from trading arm Integra, mean likely job losses, cuts to working hours and opening times.

Unison South Gloucestershire branch secretary Dan Smart told a council scrutiny commission in January: "The ‘easy savings’ have now been made and we are now moving towards ending or privatising everything but statutory provision."

April, was passed by a majority vote during a full council meeting on February 21.

Council leader Claire Young (Lib Dem, Frampton Cotterell) said: "There’s been a woeful lack of funding from the Conservative government in Westminster, and this has led to us making some difficult decisions.

"Despite the challenges thrown at us, we are delivering on our twin goals of action on the cost of living and climate crises for the people of South Gloucestershire.

"This budget prioritises the well-being of people in need, aiming to provide essential costof-living support while upholding crucial services and taking decisive action against the climate and nature emergencies."

Co-leader Ian Boulton (Lab, Staple Hill & Mangotsfield) said: "We are prioritising the issues that local people have told us are important."

Tory councillors criticised the

financial plan for ignoring public opposition to parking charges and higher bin fees.

Group leader Sam Bromiley (Con, Hanham) said: “The reality of this budget is clear: new and increased charges heaped on residents; a complete failure to identify new efficiency savings; proposed investments that have been poorly thought through; and a clear message to local people that their views matter not one iota.

“Your priorities are wrong and you’ve tried to cover yourselves in the smokescreen of blaming national government, but residents can see through this. They’ve told us that they don’t want parking charges, but parking charges are what they’ll get. They’ve said they don’t want to pay higher fees for green waste, but higher fees are what they’ll get too.”

By Alex Seabrook, Local Democracy Reporting Service

Council co-leader Ian Boulton and leader Claire Young at a meeting discussing the budget

Now you'll have to book your trip to the tip

RESIDENTS will soon have to book a visit to one of South Gloucestershire Council's Sort It recycling centres.

The council says a new law limits how much DIY waste, such as rubble and plasterboard, people can bring to recycling centres.

This means the council has to start recording how much is being disposed of, and it believes a booking system is the best way to do this.

The government announced the new law in January, as a ban on fees for depositing DIY waste, and said it would help cut fly-tipping.

But the council says the new law means it has to "limit the number of visits made by residents disposing of this waste".

Up until now the council has had a registration system for residents' cars but nonregistered cars are seldom

turned away.

Calling for residents' comments on the plan, the council said: "To enable us to fully comply with changing government legislation, we will be introducing a booking system at our Sort It recycling centres to replace the current system.

"Booking systems are already in use in lots of areas where they have been welcomed by residents, as they make it easier for them to plan their visit and mean reduced queuing times when they get there.

"We are running an engagement survey to help explain how the scheme could work and to give you an opportunity to provide feedback.

"We want to make sure that we end up with a system that meets your needs."

People are being asked to have their say in a survey on

the consultation section of the council's website, which has more details on how the scheme would work.

The council's announcement has already received more than 300 comments on its Facebook page, with most saying there was nothing wrong with the current system.

But the council added: "This is an engagement exercise, not a consultation and your feedback will help shape how (not if) we introduce a booking system.

"Whilst we welcome feedback about how you would like the scheme to work - and you are able to tell us that you oppose a booking system - we are required by law to monitor and restrict DIY waste coming into the sites.

"Your feedback will help us ensure we implement a system which works for everyone."

It can be found at tinyurl. com/yc3fxj3u.

Anyone who is not online can call 01454 868009 for help in making a response, before the deadline of April 1.

The council is also consulting on a new "draft plan" to shape its priorities for the next four years.

The 'Council Plan' prioritises four goals, focused on climate and nature, inequality, children and health and well-being, where the council, working with communities and partners, will aim to make a positive difference over the next ten years.

Council leader Claire Young said: “It is really important that we hear from local people to make sure we are setting the right priorities, because these things will only be possible if we work together."

Details of the draft plan can be found on the council website at sgcouncilplan.commonplace. is.

School hall cleared for use after asbestos alert

Frampton Cotterell C of E Primary School children and staff were kept away as a precaution after the discovery on February 26, before the hall was re-opened later the same day when an air test showed there was no risk to pupils or staff.

Head teacher Debbie Fisher said the asbestos was found in a cupboard next to the hall during a building survey at the school in Rectory Road.

She said: “After discussing the results with our health and safety consultant, we closed the hall as a precaution, while an air test was carried out to check it was safe to use.

community remain safe, while we arrange for the cupboard to be repaired or cleared.”

“The results of the air test confirmed it was safe to reopen the school hall and we have been liaising with the relevant health and safety teams and South Gloucestershire Council throughout to ensure the pupils, staff and the wider school

A spokesperson for South Gloucestershire Council said: “We were notified that the school hall at Frampton Cotterell C of E Primary School had been closed as a precautionary measure following the results of an asbestos sample, which identified low-risk material within a cupboard at the school.

“We are pleased the results of the air test confirmed that the hall was safe to use and thank the school for their diligent handling of the situation.”

Frampton Cotterell C of E rimary School

NEWS

Pub shuts as brewery searches for new landlord

A PROMINENT pub in Coalpit Heath has closed for refurbishment after the popular landlord left.

Owners Butcombe Brewery say the Badminton Arms will re-open once a new landlord is found.

Landlord Tibi Pribeck had run the pub for more than seven years. In February he announced on social media that he was quitting at the end of the month.

He told members of the Frampton Cotterell and Coalpit Heath Blog: “I hope lots of people will come and enjoy these few weeks with us.

“Unfortunately I have to leave after seven-and-a-half years because of the hard business circumstances.”

“Butcombe brewery is trying to find a new tenant so they can run the pub.

“They may close for a short period for refurbishment but I am sure that it is going to stay as a pub and operate the carvery as well.”

The Voice understands that the pub had sometimes been closing early in the evenings because of a lack of customers.

Locals responded with messages of

thanks to Tibi and his family.

Paul Shepherd said: “Always is my go to place for a carvery or steak with mum, sadly passed now, and friends. Hope someone takes it on and keeps it going.”

Maypole trail for village

WINTERBOURNE Down Village

Carnival is inviting schools, nurseries and children’s clubs to take part in a trail to brighten up the streets with maypoles.

Carnival committee spokesperson Kathryn Hopes said: "We are running our very own version of the Gromit Trail, but with maypoles!

"Any group can enter, be it the local Scouts or Brownies, to the toddler groups and churches.

"All local primary schools will be invited to take part, we can’t think of a better art lesson than decorating your own maypole!"

The carnival will provide the poles for groups taking part, so they can do their own decorations before the poles are displayed around the village for the May Pole Trail on Sunday May 5.

This year's carnival charity is Suicide Prevention UK, after a public vote gave it a "large majority".

Kathryn said: "We’ve begun working closely with local volunteers to ensure they’re fully involved in the day’s activities."

Organisers have had a "huge response" to early calls for stalls

Last year's maypole in Winterbourne Down

and food stands, with a mix of regulars and newcomers.

Kathryn added: "We’ve worked hard to increase the variety - we think you’ll be very pleased with what greets you on Down Road this year. There are a small number of spaces available for stalls, please contact us and we’ll do our best to squeeze you in."

To contact the committee email winterbournedowncarnival@ gmail.com, visit the website at winterbournedowncarnival. co.uk or Facebook page.

Claire Lewis said: “This is sad news - so sorry you’re leaving.

"The Baddie has always been our go-to pub in the area. I understand the hard business circumstances - we have been asked to leave at 9pm on a couple of occasions because it’s closing, as not many people were in the premises.

“Must cost more to keep it open for a few people than to close early. Such a shame it has come to this.”

Mary Potts said: “Do hope it does stay open, it's the most disabled friendly pub in the village. Many thanks to its present landlord.”

Helen Atlast said: “Very sad to read this Tibby.. always a lovely welcome from you.. you’ve been a great neighbour!”

Butcombe Brewery tenanted operations manager Dominic Rowley said: "We wish Tibor all the very best for the future and thank him for all his hard work in making the Badminton Arms such a great pub.

“We're busy looking for a new tenant to take on the site and to carry on Tibor's excellent work."

The Badminton Arms in Coalpit Heath

Firefighter cuts on hold

UNIONS have welcomed Avon Fire Authority's proposal to halt cuts to 40 firefighter posts following a campaign led by firefighters.

The fire authority announced in the autumn that it would cut 40 full-time firefighter posts and reduce fire engine crews from five firefighters to four across the service.

The Fire Brigades Union had warned that the cuts were a danger to the public and firefighters.

Firefighters were joined by supporters at a rally of over 60 people outside the fire authority meeting in February, where the authority proposed to stop the cuts - with a formal decision due at its next meeting.

Fire Brigades Union general secretary Matt Wrack said: "This follows months of campaigning by Fire Brigades

Union members. Today’s rally showed the impact of firefighters and the public standing together against cuts."

Chief fire officer Simon Shilton warned that the service still had a forecast deficit and needed to consider options "to make the necessary efficiencies and structural changes to deliver a balanced budget".

£1.6m for coal mine study

A STUDY to test the potential for former coal mines to be used to heat homes has been given £1.6 million in funding.

Metro Mayor Dan Norris announced the study, backed by the government's Coal Authority and Historic England, to see if water warmed naturally deep underground in old mine workings by geological activity can be brought to the surface to provide viable domestic heat.

The process would involve using pumps to raise the temperature to the level required for heating and hot water.

In 2022 South Gloucestershire Council said it was investigating the potential use of former mine workings in the district, which stretch from Coalpit Heath through Lyde Green, Emersons Green and Kingswood, which had been identified as "areas of interest" by the Coal Authority.

The authority said that under Mangotsfield, Westerleigh and Kingswood alone there were 42 coal seams and more than 1,000 mine entrances.

Now Mr Norris, who comes from a mining family himself, is backing the idea, and says there is the potential to heat more than 100,000 homes in the region, where almost a quarter sit above once-thriving coal mines flooded with water.

He said: "I love the idea that coal mines could be repurposed to provide the clean energy of the future – it’s coming full circle.

The study will map the mine areas which have the greatest potential heat resource, leading to detailed ground investigation works.

Coal Authority head of heat Gareth Farr said: "The Coal Authority is committed to facilitating mine water heat networks across Great Britain.

"We hope that the industrial heritage of coal mining in the West of England Mayoral Combined Authority will also be able to support mine water heat networks in the future."

Mr Norris promoted the idea at a recent session of the Energy Security and Net Zero Select Committee’s “heating our homes” inquiry in the House of Commons.

He told MPs: "There is a nice irony in it, because since the mining industry contributed so greatly to CO2 emissions, it would be lovely to get something positive about the climate emergency, which is a huge problem and one we can’t roll back on."

Mr Norris also backed the idea of using the Severn Estuary’s vast tidal power to help solve the energy crisis at the session in January.

Firefighters march to the meeting

Metro Mayor Dan Norris announces the study with ex-miner Bryn Hawkins, 82, at Radstock museum

Chaplain: let's talk about knife crime

A PRISON chaplain is asking young people who fear they are being dragged into knife crime: call me and talk about it.

Larry Harvey, of Coalpit Heath, has launched an awareness campaign of the consequences of carrying a knife – and using it.

He has printed posters and calling cards carrying messages and his phone number, so young people thinking of carrying knives, and concerned families, can call him for a "different perspective".

Larry is taking action as the Bristol area is hit by a wave of serious crime involving knives.

In January two boys 15-yearold Mason Rist and Max Dixon, 16, were stabbed to death in Knowle West.

In February another boy, 16-year-old Darrian Williams, was fatally stabbed in Rawnsley Park in Easton.

Teenage boys have also been stabbed and seriously injured in Little Stoke, St Werburgh’s and outside the McDonald's in Broadmead, in Bristol city centre, since the start of February.

Family Tree

Larry has worked as a prison chaplain for 20 years – 10 at Bristol Prison and 10 at the former Ashfield Young Offender Institution in Pucklechurch.

Over that time he has met many inmates serving time for knife crime.

He said: "If you don't carry a knife you can't use it.

"Taking someone's life will cost you yours – 25 years, minimum, could be 35 depending on how you behave. There are no winners.

"Mates and girlfriends will disappear, meaning no visits or money being sent in.

"When you're finally released, if you are, you'll probably end up in a hostel or a bedsit at the very end of your life, on your own."

In his 2018 autobiography, Menace to Miracle, Larry told how he was once a prisoner himself before finding religion and training as a chaplain,

enabling him to help others change their lives.

He works for education service SGSE as a mentor and hosts animal therapy sessions in Lyde Green.

Larry has printed his message on cards and posters and is urging anyone who wants to talk to call him on 07825 321358.

He is also looking for people to help him get the posters and cards to pubs, youth clubs and other places where they can help spread the message - anyone who can put one up can text him.

Larry said: "If anybody's got an issue or is thinking of carrying a knife and they want to talk, I'll be there for them.

"I'm also willing to speak to families who have concerns about their children regarding knife crime.

"If you carry a knife you're more likely to use one or have it used on you."

He is buried under an Oak tree and there is a memorial stone set in the grass.

It’s a lovely spot to visit, it helps us keep his memory alive and it’s a great feeling to support the creation of a nature reserve. We’ve got a family plot so eventually we can all be together under the trees. Visit www.memorialwoodlands.com or call 01454 414999

Susan, London

The only funeral director in the UK creating a 100 acre nature reserve complete with its own chapel and reception rooms. Just 15 minutes drive from Cribbs Causeway. A whole morning or afternoon costs about the same as a brief service at a crematorium. Burial or ashes interment. Complete burial service from £1,495.

Larry Harvey with one of his posters offering help

Leaders are working to improve school

A VILLAGE primary school is on its way to completing improvements required by Ofsted, despite losing its previous 'good' rating from the regulator.

An inspection of St Andrew's C of E Primary School in Cromhall last December found that the school 'requires improvement'.

But inspectors said the school leaders knew what needed to be done, and had already started working with the local authority to make changes.

New head teacher Graham Pike, who took over at the start of the school year in September 2023, says he and governors had identified areas where change was needed, and had started to make improvements.

The inspectors' report, published at the end of January, found the school in Church Lane required improvement in the areas of quality of education, personal development, and leadership and management.

Pupils' behaviour and attitudes were rated 'good'.

The previous “graded” inspection in 2019 rated the school, which has 61 pupils aged from four to 11, as 'good'.

The report said the school had raised its expectations of pupils’ achievement, and started to make improvements to the quality of education.

St Andrew's Primary School

But the inspectors said: "Many of these positive changes are recent and need time to embed.

"Despite this, pupils have positive attitudes to learning.

“The school has started to widen its offer to develop pupils’ talents and interests, but it remains narrow.

"Nonetheless, pupils do benefit from some extra-curricular activities, including a local tag-rugby tournament, for example.”

The inspectors said the school knows what needs to improve - for example it has taken effective action to strengthen the early reading programme.

They said: "Pupils now read books which match closely with the sounds they are

learning.

"Those who need it get additional support. Although these improvements are in their infancy, pupils are starting to learn to read accurately and with increasing fluency.”

The report said the school has begun to provide professional development for staff to enhance the quality of teaching.

The inspectors said governors and leaders “engage purposefully” with parents, who speak positively about the improvements that have been made.

Mr Pike said: "We accept the outcome of the inspection that took place in December and are proud that Ofsted highlighted that our children are happy, safe and well behaved.

“As a governing body we had already identified that some improvements were required, and our new leadership team has been making positive progress since appointed in September.

“We have worked closely with the local authority to create a comprehensive development plan and are pleased that Ofsted recognised the improvements that have already taken place.

“As leaders and governors, we are committed to a process of continuous improvement to deliver the high-quality education our children deserve."

Whole school joins in on music day

CHILDREN at a Winterbourne primary school had their own music festival.

There was a live funk band gig, with children having the chance to learn about the different musical instruments being played, and performances by children and parents in class.

During the day, each year group class practised a musical piece together to perform in a school celebration assembly the next day.

Reception class tried percussion instruments and learned how to play Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star using chime bars.

Years 4, 5 and 6 children learned how to use boomwhackers – tuned percussion instruments – to create whole class performances, while Year 3 pupils had the chance to showcase their recorder

playing, after starting to learn in music lessons in the Autumn term.

Year 4 teacher Jane Burch said: "We were lucky enough to have some musical parents and staff who visited our classes to play and sing for us.

In Reception, one of the mums played the cajon (drum

box) and Mrs Ithier played the flute.

"Children shared some wonderful musical talents with their classmates. Emma and her family entertained us with their guitar playing, and Freya played her violin. Other children brought in their ukuleles and guitars to show us what they

have been learning at home.

"Thank you to our Music Coordinator Mrs Ithier for organising the day – it was such a fun way to overcome the January blues and start back to school this term.

"To quote one of our children, 'the vibe across the school made everyone happy!'”

District is getting worse – survey

ALMOST half of survey respondents say South Gloucestershire became a worse place to live over the past two years.

Just three per cent of people said the district had become a better place to live, as new figures show a stark decline in satisfaction with local services and living standards.

Two thirds of people responding to a recent budget consultation from South Gloucestershire Council said they were satisfied with the local area, down from over three quarters two years ago, and 85% a decade ago.

More than 1,800 people responded to the consultation on the budget.

Asked why South Gloucestershire has become a worse place to live, survey respondents most often mentioned the “worsening condition of the roads”, followed by “too much housing without adequate infrastructure”.

Others mentioned changes to the high street in Thornbury, and a lack of maintenance of public areas and footpaths.

Liberal Democrat council leader Claire Young said the grim figures were due to a national trend that the public believe the “world as a whole is going

downhill”.

During a cabinet meeting on February 5, she was asked why residents’ satisfaction was declining.

Conservative Emersons Green ward councillor Rachael Hunt said: “A number of indicators show a downward trend compared with last year’s results, for example the council’s net satisfaction score is down by more than five percentage points on last year.

"The proportion of residents who say they are satisfied with how the council runs things is down almost 10 per cent on last year.”

The Liberal Democrats have been in power in South Gloucestershire since May last year, in a coalition with Labour.

They took over from the Conservatives, who had run the council since 2007.

Figures in the consultation report show a steep decline in satisfaction since at least 2013.

Cllr Young said: “I think that reflects a national trend. I think there is a general public perception that the world as a whole is going downhill. I think this fits into that national trend.”

By Alex Seabrook, Local Democracy Reporting Service

Meryl's a community hero

A VOLUNTEER who has given three decades of service to help run her village hall has been named a "community hero"

Meryl Cook has been a member of the Iron Acton Parish Hall management committee for 31 years.

For many of those she has been the booking secretary, ensured the hall is maintained and cleaned and done many other jobs.

She has also played a major role on the hall's horticultural committee, organising both the May Day plant stall, which has helped raise funds over many years, and the annual horticultural show, which brings village gardeners together in friendly rivalry.

In recognition of her service Meryl received a South Gloucestershire Community Award from council chair Mike Drew at the end of January.

Her citation said: "The hall offers many different groups such as Music with Mummies, drama classes for adults and children and much more.

"It would not be possible to continue to offer such amazing facilities to all these groups without Meryl’s dedication and willingness to assist hirers in making full use of the hall."

Iron Acton Parish Hall volunteer Meryl Cook receives her award from South Gloucestershire Council chair Mike Drew

N E W S F R O M

Practical Conservation Sessions

Our free Practical Conservation Sessions will now be taking place on the last Saturday of each month.

If you are interested in coming along to any of our sessions, or if you’d simply like to learn more, please visit our website at www.framptoncottrell-pc.gov.uk /climate-nature or email us on nature@framptoncottrell-pc.gov.uk

Bike Repair Kit at Brockeridge

The parish council now has a free to use bike repair kit at the Brockeridge Centre

It will be available during the Brockeridge Centre opening hours (Monday - Friday, 9am - 2pm) and is free for anyone to use.

The kit, donated by South Glos. Council, contains a tyre pump, puncture repair kits, spare bicycle lights, multi-tools, and tyre levers

Tennis Courts Updates

In November 2023, work started on our project to refurbish the tennis courts at The Park, School Road

Work is progressing well. The courts have now been resurfaced, and we have installed new secure fencing and a secure entry system with remote locking and access.

Ridings Road Play Area Official Opening

On the 15th of February, Frampton Cotterell Parish Council hosted an official opening ceremony for the newly refurbished Ridings Road Play Area.

Our morning’s events included a refreshments stand, tree & bulb planting, and an official ribbon-cutting ceremony with the parish council Chair, Linda Williams. Thankfully the rain held off, and we even had a spot of sunshine! We would like to thank the local Beavers group who joined us The Beavers (as well as their families and other volunteers) were all fantastic at helping us plant nearly 200 bulbs, trees, plants and hedgerows at the play area!

The Beavers also leant a hand (literally!) for the ceremonial ribbon-cutting A wonderful time was had by all! We hope that this play area brings joy to the children of Frampton Cotterell for many years to come

For more information on the Ridings Road play area (and more!), and to see more photos from this event and of the new play equipment, please visit our website

The court lines will be painted onto the new surface later in the spring, as the paint will require an extended period of dry, warm weather in order to dry correctly

We will continue to update you on the progress of the tennis courts refurbishments. We look forward to the completion of this work and the reopening of the improved courts.

Bioblitz 2024

It’s time to start getting ready for BioBlitz: City Nature Challenge 2024!

We need your help to record as many local plant and animal species as possible using the iNaturalist app.

Join Frampton Cotterell Parish Council and the Frampton Cotterell Nature Group this April for this year ’ s Bioblitz We’ll be running nature walks, nature activities, talks about local nature & more at our 2024 event

Exact dates and times TBC Check our website, newsletters, or social media pages for further updates later this spring

oncotterell-pc.gov.uk

The Park Pathway Proposal

Frampton Cotterell Parish Council has been awarded S106 funding by South Gloucestershire Council for the purpose of improving courtsbased facilities at The Park, School Road.

A condition of this funding is the installation of a fully accessible pathway which links park entranceways to courts facilities at The Park

Frampton Cotterell Parish Council wants your feedback on our proposed pathway

Learn more and have your say by visiting our website and completing our pathway survey

Scan the QR code below or visit

www.framptoncotterell-pc. gov.uk/have-your-say

www.framptoncotterell-pc.gov.uk

Photos from the offic

Resurfaced tennis courts and new fencing

Cookies' fortune for school canteen

WINTERBOURNE Academy says its school dinners sold out for the first time ever when the canteen laid on a feast of Asian food for Chinese New Year.

The Chinese banquet saw the canteen decorated with traditional designs to welcome the lunar Year of the Dragon, with a range of Asian-inspired meals on offer and even fortune cookies.

The event was the idea of the Equality Council, a group of students who organise events across the school.

A school spokesperson said: "They started by running a series of assemblies themselves to all year groups to teach everyone more about Chinese or Lunar New Year, why it's celebrated and how it's celebrated.

"The Chinese Banquet was so popular that the canteen sold

One of Winterbourne Academy's dragon decorations

out of food for the first time ever!

"The Equality Council has had an influx of students joining from China and Hong Kong, which is a reflection of the increased numbers at our school, and they wanted to do something to help the group feel celebrated and share some of their culture and traditions."

The Equality Council is planning more cultural celebrations in the coming months.

M32 bus lanes 'critical'

NEW bus lanes planned along the M32 would “turbocharge” the bus network and give South Gloucestershire services a critical boost, it has been claimed.

National Highways is planning £200 million of repairs to the Eastville flyover, which takes the motorway over the Muller Road roundabout near Ikea, starting in two to three years' time.

Bristol City Council's cabinet member for transport, Don Alexander, says this will be the catalyst for reallocating more space to buses, with bus stops along the road planned too.

Cllr Alexander told a cabinet meeting in February: “For us as a region it’s very important that that £200 million isn’t spent just recreating what’s basically a 1960s piece of transport infrastructure, because there’s so many more possibilities for using that space and that amount of money.

"If we could reassign some of the space to buses that is currently given to cars, then the amount of patronage would turbocharge our bus network, not

just here in Bristol, but in South Gloucestershire, too. We’ve done the calculations on that.

“It’s important for Bristol but it’s critical for South Gloucestershire, when many of their buses are requiring ongoing subsidy.

"It’s a very challenging project, we recognise that, but the benefits of it potentially are absolutely enormous.”

The long-term plans include reclassifying the M32 as an A-road and building bus lanes along the whole length.

Another key part of the plan is building a new park and ride, near Junction 1 of the M32 at Hambrook, although no site has been found after at least 20 years of discussions.

Bristol Mayor Marvin Rees said the works on the flyover would "bring misery to morning commuters coming into Bristol from South Gloucestershire", adding: "We’ve got to have this park and ride in place."

By Alex Seabrook, Local Democracy Reporting Service

New programme launched to help people with their sleep

Sleep Dynamics is a 7-week programme aimed at enhancing sleep for better health. The course is being offered by Oliver Pratt, the founder of Soul Star Health. He is now looking for participants. He says:

“My overall aim is to help people improve their sleep. 10 years ago, I suffered from insomnia myself, so I know how debilitating it can be; part of my journey has been to build practical and evidence-based information for improving sleep, which I now use to support other people.”

“I developed the Sleep Dynamics Programme, to help other people make important lifestyle modifications and embed good habits for improving sleep. Alongside this we use the Zeez Sleep Pebble technology, to create a winning combination to prompt and promote a good night’s sleep.”

“You will come away with a plethora of knowledge and tools on how to improve sleep, making lifestyle adjustments personalised to you along the way. We will also be using a Sleep Questionnaire to measure the quality of sleep and track changes, discussing the results in our final session together.”

About Soul Star Health:

Soul Star Health is dedicated to holistic wellbeing, offering innovative programs to improve health and quality of life. Founded by Oliver Pratt, Soul Star Health is committed to providing evidence-based solutions for individuals seeking transformative experiences.

www.soulstarhealth.co.uk

About Zeez Sleep:

Zeez Sleep is at the forefront of sleep technology, delivering solutions to optimize sleep quality. The Zeez Sleep pebble is a cutting-edge device designed to assist individuals in achieving better sleep through advanced technology and research-backed methodologies. www.zeez.org.uk

To register your interest or find out more please contact Oliver Pratt

Contact: www.soulstarhealth.co.uk/contact

Email: oliver@soulstarhealth.co.uk

WhatsApp - 07805258457

Course Details:

Course Commence date: 16th April 2024. 6.30pm.

Location: Goldney House, Chipping Sodbury.

Cost: £160 per person.

Low-income concessions available.

Please note. A fully refundable deposit of £100 is required for the use of the Zeez Sleep Pebble.

n LOCAL MP

Council must rethink car parking charges plan

HIGH streets and shopping centres are the backbone of our local economy.

While there have been significant changes in how we use them, we must never underestimate their importance to residents and community groups.

We have a proud history of local entrepreneurs and unique businesses flourishing here in South Gloucestershire, and it’s vital we do everything in our power to support these retailers and back local produce.

This is why I, along with 92% of residents just in Thornbury alone, remain resolutely opposed to the introduction of parking charges that are set to be introduced in all of our South Gloucestershire Council-owned car parks.

All the work that has taken place to support our local economy threatens to be undone in one fell swoop by the ill-thought out plan

to introduce car park charges.

All councillors made a clear pledge not to introduce car parking charges in May, but here we are, almost a year on, with that commitment in tatters.

From Rock Street and Castle Street car parks in Thornbury to Abbotswood and Kennedy Way in Yate, shoppers and local residents are going to be hit by car parking charges which quite simply could have been avoided.

Businesses will suffer, cars will be forced to park in nearby neighbourhoods, and some of our most vulnerable residents in South Gloucestershire will find it much more difficult to access local shops and services.

You may hear that the car park charges were the only option the council had.

This is simply not the case. The council administration has made no attempts whatsoever to find any new efficiency savings for

2024/25 and beyond.

Rather than looking for ways to save money and perform more efficiently, they have simply taken the easy option of passing the financial burden to residents through new and increased fees and charges. This is completely unacceptable.

Unparalleled investment from government has been made in the high street, with schemes that include the Levelling Up Fund and the Future High Streets Fund.

Over £6 billion has been used to help boost local economies, create jobs and new homes, and improve skills.

The government is introducing new powers for local authorities to take control of empty buildings and give communities and local businesses the opportunity to bid for the chance to rent shops. This is on top of taking a third of properties out of business rates completely.

Luke Hall MP writes for Frome Valley Voice

We have also seen business rates support packages, worth £4.3 billion over five years, to support the high street and freezing of the small business rates multiplier for a fourth consecutive year.

We should stand firm against the council’s desire to make residents pay to shop in our community.

Together as a community, we can fight the council’s plans, and help our shopping centres and high streets to remain the proud and prosperous heart of South Gloucestershire’s towns and villages.

MP's Ukraine scrappage call

WINTERBOURNE MP Jack Lopresti is calling for 4x4s and pickup trucks taken off the road under scrappage schemes to be sent to Ukraine.

The Filton and Bradley Stoke MP says vehicles such as older Mitsubishi L200, Toyota Hilux and Ford Ranger cars, which do not meet the requirements of schemes like Bristol's Clean Air Zone and London's ULEZ, could be put to use instead of being crushed.

He says the vehicles could be used as ambulances, weapons platforms, mobile drone control stations, command vehicles or general transports by forces resisting the Russian invasion.

Mr Lopresti, who has visited Ukraine five times in the past year, most recently at the beginning of February, is calling for either a national scheme to coordinate vehicles given up as part of scrappage programmes for residents, or for councils to liaise directly with the Foreign Office or Ministry of Defence to collect vehicles.

He recently met with Levelling Up Secretary Michael Gove to discuss the proposals.

Mr Lopresti said: “The Ukrainian military is desperately short of 4x4s and pickup trucks

the frontline.

"If you have a larger vehicle and are thinking about participating in a scrappage scheme, I urge you to seek out charities such as Car for Ukraine, which can use these vehicles to help those in need.”

LAST month my wife conjured up the most amazing ‘Shrove Tuesday Fest’ of both savoury and sweet pancakes; with a bottle of Prosecco, it became our pre-Valentine’s celebration.

The following day was Ash Wednesday, the start of Lent, which also this year happened to be St Valentine’s Day as well.

This makes for an interesting dilemma and challenge for the purist, having to hold in balance a day when, especially in the secular world, we celebrate the wonderful gift of love alongside a day of fasting, penance and reflection, as Ash Wednesday is kept by the Church, marking the start of the season of Lent and the journey to the Cross and beyond.

The truth is that these two celebrations have more in common than divides them,

with unconditional love being at the heart of both.

On Ash Wednesday, Christians are marked on their foreheads with the sign of the cross: it helps them to focus on what we believe is God’s unconditional love for his creation, a love which leaves Jesus his son making the ultimate sacrifice for us all in his crucifixion on Good Friday.

It is a cosmic moment, when all humanity is reconnected with the ‘God of Love’ for all eternity.

St Valentine knew this better than most and, in the year 269, on February 14, made the ultimate sacrifice himself when martyred for his faith in Jesus Christ.

The truth is that love is at the heart of both celebrations, so holding them in balance

is fine, celebrating the love of someone special to us, in our Valentine's cards, and acknowledging the love of God in the mark of the ash on our foreheads.

The Greek word for love is ‘agape’; it is at the heart of the Christian faith and teaching.

This is a tough and sacrificial love, which requires us to be selfless rather than selfish: to act in a counter-intuitive way when facing issues; putting ourselves second to the needs of the vulnerable and the marginalised. It is about going the extra mile to secure peace and reconciliation when people are divided; it is seeing good in others and rejoicing in their gifts, rather than pointing out fault or blemish.

So, as we journey through the season of Lent once more this

year, let's hold on to this gift of love, reflecting it to all whom we meet.

In doing so, our world will be blessed, at a very dark time in its history, with the spirit of a true ‘Valentine love’ - and hope, peace, joy and love will be in abundance for all people.

n FRAMPTON NATURE

NOW that the days are getting longer and sunnier, our garden wildlife is becoming more active - look out for busy birds, bees, frogs, toads, bats and hedgehogs.

This is a great time of year to plan what you can do to help the nature in your garden.

Wildlife gardening can be a low-cost and low-maintenance approach, and attract a wide range of species.

Here are some top tips:

Plant a tree: If you have the space then a tree will provide shelter and food. Mature trees are especially valuable, so look after any you have. Fruit trees are a good choice for small gardens.

Plant a hedge: Hedges and shrubs around the edges of your garden allow wildlife to move around.

Make a pond: Creating a pond is probably the best thing you can do to attract and benefit garden wildlife. Ponds without fish are best - provide a gentle slope, so creatures can get in and out.

Grow flowers: A wide variety of flowering plants

Make space for nature

will keep your garden buzzing with pollinators and other invertebrates. Choose native or nectar-rich varieties.

Avoid harm: Don’t use pesticides, weedkillers, slug pellets, peat-based compost or plastic grass.

Keep it untidy: Let some areas

n NEWS FROM THE METRO MAYOR

go wild. Let the grass grow long, let dandelions and other weeds grow and leave old plant stems standing for invertebrates to overwinter in.

Provide homes: A wide variety of bird boxes, bat boxes, hedgehog houses, bee and bug hotels are available or can be

Innovation is in our region’s DNA

AS your Metro Mayor, and as a West of England resident, I am incredibly proud of our great region’s history of science and innovation.

It is a history centuries in the making, to which Europe’s largest supercomputer, focused on AI, is yet another world-beating recent addition.

There’s Brunel himself, that genius of engineering who ‘built the world’; Bathonian Caroline Herschel, the first woman to receive a salary as a scientist; Concorde, which was built and maintained in Filton; even the world’s first hollow chocolate Easter egg.

The West of England has always been, and continues to be, home to vital industries, iconic inventions and awesome achievements.

In short, innovation is in our region’s DNA. And it’s absolutely key in today’s world - to our physical health, to our region’s economic pros pects, and to our place nationally and globally.

I’ve always said the West of England has the potential to be an innovation engine. The Mayoral Combined Authority I lead has the ambition to make that a reality.

That’s why, since I was elected Mayor, a key focus of my Mayoral Combined Authority has been building the West’s innovation creden tials, and further putting our incredible region on the map as the place to innovate – to create the high-quality jobs locals deserve.

I am proud of all we have achieved so far. The West of England region is an innova tion leader.

Our people and firms excel at innovation, while big investments are being made towards solving regional and global challenges alike.

We’ve become the nation’s 5G logistics test bed, seen via the incredible links between Avonmouth Docks and the Gravity smart campus in Somerset - soon to be home to the biggest gigafactory in the whole

country!

Or how about the fact we’ve built England’s largest wind turbine, that we’ve launched Space West - the second biggest space cluster in the UK - and we’re working hard to harness the power of the Severn Estuary to kickstart the age of tidal, right here in the West.

But with the world now in the foothills of the fourth industrial revolution, I want us to go even further.

Because I fully recognise there are some pretty big challenges we need to overcome to become the innovation engine I know we can be.

Some of the most beautiful places to live in our rural towns and villages are let down by poor access to the online world.

And right now, not everyone in our part of the world has access to the digital skills they need which is vital for success today.

That’s why, through things like my

made.

Make piles: Piles of wood, leaves, stones and compost provide important habitats for invertebrates and other species. Get connected: If you have a boundary fence or wall, then speak to your neighbours about creating a hedgehog highway. A 13cm x 13cm hole or tunnel will allow hedgehogs access.

Enjoy it: Enjoy watching and learning about the nature in your garden. We’d love to see photos of your garden wildlife on our Facebook group. Get in touch if you have any questions. Work together: We’re planning a launch party for our Community Nature Reserve project at the end of April.

We’d like everyone with a garden or other green space to join us. To learn more and sign up, please email framptoncotterellnature@ gmail.com.

David Hanks

soon-to be-launched Innovation Prospectus, and other measures, the needs of West of England resi dents are at the heart of my innovation plans.

Our region is a powerhouse of scientific talent - and it’s time we realised our true potential.

My Mayoral Combined Authority will con tinue to provide the purpose, power, resources and leadership necessary to do just that.

Making a pond will provide habitat for the common frog - a wildlife garden favourite. Picture: David Hanks

Metro Mayor Dan Norris writes for The Voice

n RECIPE OF THE MONTH

The spice of life

MARCH can be like life – serene and then savage, with biting winds, all in one day.

So what better to warm us and make us forget the blustering wind than real comfort food: a tasty curry, full of flavour.

I’ve chosen a favourite of mine, which I find particularly versatile.

You can make it vegetarian by adding lots of other veg, like sweet potatoes, green beans, corn, peas, broccoli, broad beans...the list is endless.

I’ve suggested other ingredients, too, to ring the changes in.

This is a template recipe which you can make to your own taste in terms of extra ingredients and spice level.

I think that it’s a fairly low-spice recipe, but everyone’s tastes are different, so for children or those with low spice tolerance, just cut back on the spices until you are happy.

Remember, you can always add more spice, but it’s tricky if you’ve overdone it. If that does happen, add either diced potato or sweet potato, to absorb the heat.

Alternatively, add a squeeze of lemon or lime juice, or a tablespoon of natural yogurt or cream to cool it down.

I hope all these top tips will have helped, and your taste buds are now excited!

One final thought – light a scented candle whilst cooking curries. This won’t just cover the smell, it will help to absorb it.

Get spicy!

Chicken and red lentil curry for all the family

Serves 2

Ingredients:

● Chicken thigh fillets – 2, skinned and chopped into bite-sized pieces.

● Vegetable oil – 1 tablespoon (tbsp)

● Onion – 1 large, finely chopped

● Garlic cloves – 3, finely chopped

● Fresh ginger – a piece about 1 inch long, finely chopped

● Fresh red chilli – 1, seeded and chopped finely

● Peppers – ¼ of each, green and red, coarsely chopped

● Ground turmeric – ¼-½ teaspoon (tsp)

● Curry powder of your choosing, mild/medium or hot – 1 tsp or to taste

● Garam masala – ¼-½ tsp

● Tomato puree – 2 tbsps.

● Tinned tomatoes – 1x 400g tin

● Red lentils – 1- 1½ cups

● Veg stock – 3 cups

● Salt

● Lemon juice- a squeeze

Here’s what you do:

● Pre-heat your wok and add the oil.

● When the oil is hot, put in the onion and fry (high heat) for a minute to soften it.

● Add the garlic and ginger and stir–fry for about 30 seconds more.

● Now add the chilli and peppers. Fry for a further 5 minutes or until the peppers are softened.

● Wash the lentils in a sieve under running water to remove any bits of grit.

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

● Add the chicken to the wok and continue to fry for about 5 or 6 minutes until browned all over. (You will need to turn the pieces over with your wooden spoon.)

● Turn the heat to medium, add the turmeric, cumin and coriander and fry for 2 mins.

● Mix the tomato puree and garam masala with a little water to make a thick paste.

● Stir this into the wok, add the tinned tomatoes.

● Add the lentils and stock. Stir with the other ingredients.

● Cook for about 20 mins until the lentils are soft.

● Stir the wok from time to time to prevent the lentils sticking. Add extra water if necessary.

● Check that the chicken is cooked. (Cut a piece in half. It must be white right through.)

● When it is, add salt to taste and serve with a squeeze of lemon juice over the top.

● Serve with plain rice and a small dish of finely-sliced tomatoes and red and green peppers.

Winterbourne Barn

Winterbourne Musical Theatre

WINTERBOURNE Musical Theatre is putting on another great musical comedy, The Pirates of Penzance, at WADCA Community Centre this spring.

A great show for a leap year, the plot revolves around the ramifications of being born on 29th February in a leap year.

Originally written more than 140 years ago by Gilbert & Sullivan, the show's words have been partially updated and are still relevant and funny.

The story poked fun at the English upper class sense of duty, topping common sense and leading to ridiculous situations.

It also took the mickey out of some of the 'high' operas, and top political characters and institutions of the day.

Pirates of Penzance premiered in the USA in an attempt to overcome weak copyright laws. The title was partly a jab at the theatrical "pirates" who were staging unlicensed Gilbert & Sullivan productions in America.

The show is packed with well-known songs which are still frequently used, sometimes with altered words, in modern productions from TV adverts to Disney films and comic songs.

It will be staged from May 15 to 18, at 7.30pm Wednesday to Friday and 2.30pm on Saturday.

Tickets cost £10 and are available now on Ticketsource, where you can choose

OUR programme of community events has re-started after a brief lull during the coldest months of the year.

There are monthly talks, tours and live performances, and a range of craft and skills workshops for adults and children.

Talks coming up include Medieval Wall Paintings in Gloucestershire Churches, on March 21 at 7pm.

During the Middle Ages most churches were decorated with wall paintings of bible stories and the saints, mainly to help the priest teach his illiterate congregation. St Michael's church in Winterbourne still has wall paintings dating from the 1300s.

We have a live performance from Witty Ditties on March 24, a hilarious gallop through 400 years of comic songs, with top musicians Chris Green and Sophie Matthews. Enjoy bawdy Restoration ballads, saucy music hall, Sixties satire, and wellknown comic songwriters like Noel Coward, Tom Lehrer, and Flanders & Swann.

your seats online, via www. winterbournemusical.co.uk or by calling 01454 317408.

Louise Harrison

Crossbow Singers

WE have been very busy learning a whole host of new songs in addition to our summer concert tracks.

This is because we have had the privilege of visiting a variety of Care Homes in South Gloucestershire to entertain residents.

During February we visited Olive Tree House at Charlton Hayes (Patchway), Blossom Fields in Winterbourne and Bridge House, Frampton Cotterell.

The Crossbow Singers had a wonderful time at all three homes, with residents joining in with the songs; we are hoping to make these visits a regular part of our annual calendar.

It seems a long time ago now, however the Crossbow Singers would like to thank everyone who filled the hall on both nights for our Christmas concert.

Both audiences were very generous with their charity giving, allowing us to donate £600 to the local Comfort and Joy appeal.

This helps families in our area who are struggling and only runs over the Christmas period. It is organised jointly with the local churches, schools and housing association.

We have had a very important part of our singing family

Craft events include Easter-themed crafts on March 30, are aimed at families with children aged from five to 11.

Adults can learn to use a sewing machine to make a professionally-finished shoulder bag in one morning on March 15.

Pre-booking is required for all these activities.

We have a new tour for this year, called 'The Story of Our Barn: Medieval to Modern'.

Volunteer guides will show you around Winterbourne Barn and St Michael's church, and tell you about their history and influential Lord of the Manor Sir Thomas de Bradeston, who linked these two historic buildings in the 1300s, on the first Thursday of March, April and May (times vary).

Full details can be found on the website, www.winterbournebarn.org.uk, and Ticketsource. Everything can be booked online.

Louise Harrison

missing since we returned after the December break. Mary, our incredibly talented accompanist, has been recuperating after some ill health. Thankfully the brilliant

Chris Green and Sophie Matthews play Witty Ditties at the Barn

Antony has been stepping into her shoes, playing the piano with great gusto during our rehearsals.

Louise Lewis

n WHAT'S ON MARCH

MARCH 16

n TRANSFORM TRADE BIG BREW coffee morning with craft stalls, Zion Church, Frampton Cotterell, 10am-1pm. Supporting the fight for trade justice and local projects including Community Pioneers, Floral Friends, Frampton Cotterell Nature and Prodigal Arts. More information at www. transform-trade.org/big-brew.

MARCH 21

n ARTS APPRECIATION GROUP – join us at our new venue, the Greenfield Centre, Park Avenue, Winterbourne, at 2pm. Talk by Philip Taubenheim on Artistic Antiques. Feel free to bring your own item of interest. More details from Sally on 0794 650 8316.

MARCH 24

n FRENCHAY CRICKET CLUB taster session for Under-9 girls' team, Downend Sports Centre (indoors) at Downend School, 2.30-3.30pm. For further details or to book a place email frenchaycricketclub@gmail.com.

MARCH 30

n BRIDGE HOUSE LIGHT

RAILWAY at Bridge House Residential Home, Rectory Road, Frampton Cotterell, running trains from 2-4pm. Tickets are £1.50 per person or £5 for 4 tickets - please note, cash only. For more information email bridgehouserailway@gmail.com.

REGULAR EVENTS

MONDAY

n WINTERBOURNE FLOWER

CLUB now meets at WADCA in Watleys End Road, Winterbourne. Meetings are on the second Monday of the month between 2pm and 4pm. Call 01454 776753 for details.

n WINTERBOURNE DOWN

LADIES PROBUS CLUB meets at meets at 2pm on the third Monday of each month at All Saints Church Hall, Winterbourne Down. Join us for an interesting talk and refreshments. £3.50 visitors, £25 annual membership. Call 01454 773647 for more details.

n SINGALONG WITH THE JAYS

AND JOY first Monday of the month at Miners Social Club, Badminton Road, Coalpit Heath, 2-3.30pm. Live music: song books

and refreshments provided. £5, carers free. Bring a friend free, first time. Details from Hilary, 07515 351813.

TUESDAY

n WINTERBOURNE DOWN

METHODIST CHURCHDrop in for free cup of tea and chat or play board games, every Tuesday from 2-4pm.

n SUNRIDGE GOLF CROQUET

CLUB meets on Tuesday and Thursday afternoons in Coalpit Heath and has players at all levels. Learn how to play, club equipment is available to use. Contact croquet@wilko.eclipse.co.uk or call 07977 201440.

n CRAFTING: Come and join our group of crafters on the first Tuesday of every month in the Red Brick Annexe, Manor Hall, Coalpit Heath, BS36 2TG from 2-4pm. Bring your own project.

£4 per session: Kay 07792189276.

n OPEN DOOR at Winterbourne Down Methodist Church, Down Road, every Tuesday 2-4pm. Social gathering - enjoy tea, coffee, cakes, games, music and friendship, especially for those who live on their own.

WEDNESDAY

n WEDNESDAY & SATURDAY: ADULT BALLET- COALPIT HEATH Improve fitness, strength, flexibility & coordination. No experience necessary. Wednesday 9.30am Beginners/10.30am Over 60s Ballet- St Saviours Church Hall. Saturday 9.15am Beginners/ 10.15am Intermediate- Manor Hall. Book £5 trial. Contact georgiarsmart@yahoo.co.uk / 07751812701

n GENTLE SHIBASHI TAI CHI AND RELAXATION, accessible to all, 10.30-11.30am and 11.45am12.45pm, Winterbourne Medieval Barn, Church Lane, Winterbourne. Contact Jenny on 07855 560257or jksmith@blueyonder.co.uk for more information.

n TABLE TENNIS Henfield Hall, Ram Hill on the first Wednesday of the month, 2-4.30pm. All abilities welcome. Equipment provided. £2 per session including tea, coffee, biscuits. For more details email henfieldhall@yahoo.com or call 0785 119 8434.

n WINTERBOURNE LIBRARY NEWS

WINTERBOURNE Library is holding a free Easter holiday craft activity.

The activity, called Space!, takes place on April 5 from 1011am.

Children can stay and make crafts or collect a free takeaway bag to make at home.

The library will be closed on Good Friday until Easter Monday (March 29-April 1).

Craft drop-in takes place on March 2, from 10am-noon. Come in with your own craft or try one of ours - all welcome.

An adult craft group meets on March 9 and 23, from 10amnoon: join a friendly group of crafters to do your own work and chat – refreshments available.

Tea at 2 is every Friday afternoon from 2-3pm: drop in for a cuppa and a friendly chat.

Story time is every Friday from 9.30-10am, suitable for children aged 18 months to four years.

Lego club meets on March 16 from 10am to 11am, for children of all ages - all children must be

n DOWNEND FLOWER ARRANGING CLUB meets at 7.30pm on 1st & 3rd Wednesday each month from September to June at Lincombe Barn, Overndale Road. Call Genise on 0777 245 1217 for information.

THURSDAY

n WINTERBOURNE WINDS, friendly amateur wind band rehearses at Holy Trinity Church, Bradley Stoke, every Thursday from 7.30-9.30pm. New members welcome. For more information email winterbournewinds@yahoo. com

n DOWN ART GROUP meets on Thursdays from 2-4pm at All Saints Church Hall, Winterbourne Down. Friendly non-profit making group welcomes new members of all abilities. More information from Alison Sansum on 01454 775133

n COELIAC UK LOCAL CAFÉ MEET-UP, every third Thursday of the month, 10-11.30am, at Iron Acton Garden Centre cafe. Join us to share experiences of living gluten free. For more details email volunteering@coeliac.org.uk.

n CROSSBOW CAMERA CLUB meets every Thursday evening at 7.45pm at Crossbow House, School Road, Frampton Cotterell. Small friendly group who enjoy looking at and taking pictures. Call 0789

accompanied by an adult.

Regular Rhymetimes take place on Wednesdays, 9.30am-10am. Suitable for babies aged up to 18 months.

Computer Thursdays take place during term time - enrolment with SGS College is required. For further information contact Cindy on 0117 909 2296 or email cindy.corbett@sgscol.ac.uk.

A digital champion can help people get online, use a PC or phone or print documents. The volunteer is available on Friday mornings: booking is essential.

The library is staffed on Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday from 10am-5pm, and on Saturday from 9.30am-12.30pm. Open Access is seven days a week between 8am and 7.30pm.

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

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

026 6650 or just turn up for free taster sessions.

n HAMBROOK MEN’S PROBUS CLUB meets on the 1st and 3rd Thursday of each month, 10am-noon at Whiteshill Chapel, Hambrook, with a speaker at each meeting. Friendly group, new members welcome. For more details call the secretary on 01454 778250.

FRIDAY

n FROME VALLEY ART GROUP meets at the Greenfield Centre, Winterbourne each Friday 2-4pm or 7-9pm. Thriving club with demonstrations and workshops from visiting professional artists. More details online at winterbourneart.uk or email fromevalleyartwinterbourne@gmail. com.

SATURDAY

n WINTERBOURNE AND FROME VALLEY ENVIRONMENTAL GROUP repair cafe, every third Saturday of the month, 10.30am, All Saints Church Hall, Winterbourne Down. Free electrical, textile and woodwork repairs, with voluntary donations going to the work of Winterbourne and Frome Valley Environmental Group.

n COMMUNITY NEWS

Beesmoor Road Playing Field

BEESMOOR Road playing field in Frampton Cotterell has been awarded a grant to help meet the rising costs of maintenance and insurance.

Frampton Cotterell Parish Council has awarded the charity £3,950.

Much of the money will be used to pay for inspections and maintenance of the large wooden play area, and public liability insurance costs.

Beesmoor treasurer Phil Kerswell said the grant will help ensure the playing field remains an asset for all the community for the year ahead.

The wooden play equipment was installed after a fund raising campaign, and includes swings, slides and log walks.

The playing field itself was originally bought by local people for public use in 1946 – and has been popular with sports groups, dog walkers, and families ever

since.

The football pitch is home to three youth teams from Frampton Rangers and Frampton Athletic Veterans, as well as Novo3 Fitness.

It is administered by a committee of volunteer trustees who organise grass cutting, pitch marking, and maintenance.

Phil said: “We have a duty to protect the children using our play equipment by having a rigorous inspection and maintenance routine for the play area.

“These things all cost money, so we are grateful to Frampton Cotterell Parish Council for helping with this important financial support.”

You can contact the Beesmoor Road Playing Field trustees by email at field@beesmoor.uk.

Floral Friends of Frampton

HAVE you seen the daffodils are flowering around the village?

The mild weather has

n ADVERTORIAL New Choir sings out across South Glos

April sees the start of a brand new mixed-voice Community Choir in South Glos. It is led by one of the UK's best-known and widely respected choral directors.

"If you love to sing, then come along and meet us." That's the message from Grenville Jones the founder of the new choir whose rehearsals will take place on Tuesday evenings, from 7.15pm to 9.00pm each week at Rangeworthy Village Hall on the B4058.

They start on TUESDAY April 9 with a warm invitation to go along and DISCOVER the fun of community singing. No previous singing experience is required and there are no auditions. There is a large car park at the hall.

The accompanist is Chris Green, who lives locally, and Grenville Jones brings a wealth of experience with choirs across the World, taking workshops and as founder of 30 choirs including the celebrated, "Last Choir Standing " City of Bath Male Choir. He is also founder of the 25 popular goodafternoon choirs across the West of England from Gloucester to Cornwall. Over 1200 people are singing in his choirs.

Grenville has appeared on Radio and TV across the UK, he has worked alongside Gareth Malone and Mark de Lisser, as well as Katherine Jenkins, Aled Jones, Alfie Boe, Jamie Cullum and many others in recent years. He was one of "The Hundred" judges on the BBC's All Together Now series.

"There will be music for everyone and as the choir develops, we will sing at concerts and support local organisations with fundraising concerts. There will be three consecutive open rehearsals starting on April 9 so come along with a friend to meet us," says Grenville whose website is www.grenvillejones.biz

Daffodils are already blooming

persuaded them that spring is nearly here.

Crocus and snowdrops have also been doing their best to brighten the grey damp days.

A date for your diary: we are holding our Spring Fayre and Plant Sale on Saturday May 25, from 10am to noon.

Come along and enjoy a cup of tea or coffee with a cake, browse the stalls and, maybe, buy some plants for your garden. An event not to be missed!

Floral Friends are entirely funded by donations and we would like to thank all who have supported us recently by making donations and perhaps commemorating someone special by doing so. It is very much appreciated.

Winterbourne Down Ladies Probus Club

FEBRUARY saw us hold our annual general meeting, where we said goodbye to three long-standing committee members.

As an appreciation of their service to the club, they were presented with bouquets of flowers.

Committee members for 2024-2025 were then elected and we welcomed a new president, treasurer and welfare officer.

Our list of Speakers is complete and with trips, events and coffee mornings being arranged, we are now all set for an interesting and enjoyable year ahead.

So, if you are recently retired

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

We also welcome help, from a few minutes regularly to maintain the planters to a couple of hours once or twice a year when we need to replenish the plants in the planters in spring and autumn.

If you have a business in the area or would like to commemorate a special event or person, you may like to consider sponsoring a planter or gateway for an annual fee.

If you can help in any way, we’d love to hear from you at floralfriendsofframpton@gmail. com.

and looking to socialise in a friendly group, you would be very welcome at Winterbourne Down Ladies Probus Club.

We meet at 2pm on the third Monday of each month at All Saints Church Hall, Winterbourne Down.

Meetings start with a short club business session, followed by a talk from a visiting speaker.

We then have tea and biscuits and time for a chat before the meeting ends at 4pm.

Visitors can attend five meetings per year at a cost of £3.50 per meeting or pay an annual membership of £25.

If you would like to visit us, or would like more information, please contact me on 01454 773647.

Sue Humphreys

Coalpit Heath WI

Some hearts made by members for Southmead NICU

IN February we had a brilliant night with Danielle Greenwood who brought her enthusiasm for Ukuleles to our meeting.

Our members were quite sceptical about Danielle’s promise that they would be learning some songs by the end of the evening but were soon strumming and singing along to five different ones.

Members were matched to a ukulele based on their hand size then three different chords were taught. The evening ended with members playing ‘We Will Rock You’ by Queen.

Our members have been busy crafting, and over 40 hearts were collected at the meeting to be handed out on Mother’s Day at the NICU department of Southmead Hospital.

The hearts had been made in a variety of ways – knitted, made of felt or from material scraps.

Our lunch club has a date organised for later in the month, with an additional last minute outing combined with a walk on one of the rain-free days.

Madam Butterfly is the theatre visit planned for this month. Our current read for book club is The Colour of Milk, by Bonnie Garmus.

Our programme for 2024 continues with needle felting with Amy Grimsby on March 6 and 'My time on Sewing Bee 2023', with Fauve Birch, on April 3.

If this sounds like something you would enjoy, why not come along and meet us? You would be most welcome. We meet on the first Wednesday of each month in St Saviour’s church hall at 7.45pm.

Please look out for updates by

searching @WICoalpitHeath on Facebook or @coalpitheathwi on Instagram.

Caroline Johnston

Frampton

Cotterell WI

IT has been an action-packed year so far for our members.

Our January talk was about the dangers of cybercrime, which we can all be exposed to these days. We all learned something new to look out for and picked up a lot of tips for general online safety: it was fascinating.

We also had a lovely time at our annual New Year’s dinner on January 30, held again at the very popular White Horse at Hambrook. The atmosphere in the beautifully decorated barn made for a very enjoyable evening.

Our February meeting was an introduction to the craft of felting with Amy Grimsby – members will have the opportunity to create their own felted bee, ready for framing.

Boys’ deaths were shocking and senseless n MESSAGE FROM AVON & SOMERSET PCC

I AM deeply saddened by the recent shocking and senseless deaths of two boys, aged only 15 and 16, at the end of January in South Bristol.

The grief being felt by the families of those boys and the impact it will have on their loved ones, as well as the wider community, is unimaginable.

Preventing knife crime and stopping young people from coming to harm must be at the forefront of all our minds.

This is an area of focus for our Violence Reduction Partnership, which provides education, mentoring, and employs a community-based approach to prevent these tragic crimes.

Additionally, to encourage people to safely discard any knives and weapons they are carrying, Avon & Somerset Police have installed weapon surrender bins across the area.

Lifesaving bleed control kits designed to provide emergency

help for someone who suffers a traumatic injury are also being installed alongside defibrillators.

I also want to focus on the process of police misconduct hearings, as this is something many people are rightly asking about this month.

I am proud to have lobbied for significant changes aimed at increasing the chief constable’s power to act on police officers who have been found guilty of misconduct. One of the outcomes of this, which comes into effect from May, is that chief constables will be able to terminate the employment of officers found guilty of gross misconduct. This move marks a pivotal step towards upholding the highest standards of integrity and professionalism within law enforcement.

One of the most notable adjustments is the composition of the panels responsible for adjudicating cases of

Our March meeting on the 26th features a talk on slavery by historian Margot Cevik, and on April 24 David Hardill, of Yate Heritage Centre will talk about WWI in Yate & Sodbury.

We have many other events/ socials lined up for the year ahead, including a visit to the musical Hamilton, garden visits and a monthly lunch club, held at a different local venue each time.

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

If you’re interested in joining us, you can get in touch via our Facebook page.

misconduct.

Formerly, only one independent panel member (IPM) was mandated to sit alongside a chief constable in a hearing.

The revamped structure now necessitates the inclusion of two IPMs, bolstering the impartiality of the decision-making process.

Consequently, my office is actively recruiting new IPMs to partake in this crucial aspect of police oversight.

The imperative for these reforms is underscored by the instances of police misconduct showcased in the Channel 4 documentary ‘To Catch A Copper’, which shines a spotlight on the need to addressing such issues decisively and transparently.

If this is an issue you are passionate about, I urge you to put yourself forward. These roles offer an invaluable opportunity to contribute to the integrity of

With police and crime commissioner Mark Shelford

our law enforcement system.

I am also pleased to lend my support to the government’s forthcoming ‘Stop! Think Fraud’ campaign.

As the National Association of Police and Crime Commissioners economic and cybercrime lead, I recognise the critical importance of equipping individuals with the knowledge and tools to safeguard themselves against fraudulent activities.

By fostering awareness and vigilance, we can collectively mitigate the impact of fraud and protect our communities from financial harm.

Dinner at the White Horse

n COMMUNITY NEWS

Winterbourne Down WI

AT our February meeting we were asked to vote for resolutions being proposed this year by the Avon Federation of Women's Institutes.

The chosen resolution will be voted on in June by delegates at the Royal Albert Hall.

A group of our members attended the Frome Valley WI group lunch which took place at Chipping Sodbury Golf Club on January 22, which proved to be an enjoyable afternoon.

We welcomed Sarah Weaver to our meeting, with a talk on a holistic approach to health.

Sarah has worked in clinics across South Gloucestershire but now has her own therapy space at her home in Frampton Cotterell.

Holistic therapy looks at a person as a whole, their stress levels, diet and any hormonal imbalances.

Sarah practises Ayurveda, which is an ancient Indian medical system and is based on ancient

writings that rely on a ‘natural’ and holistic approach to physical and mental health. It is one of the world’s oldest medical systems and is still heavily practised in India and Nepal.

We took part in a quiz to determine our individual constitutions or ‘body types’.

Sarah talked about 'gut health', as good health comes from your gut so you should eat in accordance with your ‘type’, to avoid ill health.

Sarah's therapies also include foot and facial reflexology, which are the ancient arts of working with points across the feet and face connected to the various bodily systems.

Our next meeting is on March 7, when our talented president, Margaret, will be presenting a craft activity.

We meet on the first Thursday of the month at 7.30pm in All Saints Church Hall, Winterbourne Down, where all will be made welcome.

Winterbourne Evening WI

OUR February meeting took place on a very wet evening.

We received our new programmes for the coming year, and it looks like we have another good one ahead of us.

Two events happening in April attracted interest, a group meeting with a talk entitled ‘Treading the Wards’ and a trip to the Alpaca Farm in Alveston.

We also have a county spring meeting in Portishead in March and a quiz at Chipping Sodbury Town Hall in May.

The speaker for the evening was Sarah Weaver who offers a holistic approach to health.

After a brief introduction Sarah distributed a questionnaire for us to complete to identify what group type we each belonged to.

The questions ranged from height and weight to the size of our eyes and our moods. She spoke about the holistic approach to health, covering aromatherapy, facial and foot reflexology, with interesting

Weaver spoke to two WI meetings in Winterbourne

facts about our bones, especially our feet. We then took part in a foot quiz. Nobody had the correct answer to ‘how many bones are there in each foot?’

We had a friendly coffee morning at the president’s house at the beginning of the month, with a good ‘Bring and Buy’ stall and lots of chat. We look forward to our March meeting, with a ceramic craft presentation by Sally Dunn. Our meetings are held on the second Thursday of the month at 7.30pm, at St Michael’s School.

Visitors and new members are always welcome.

Susan Marshfield

Carol Tremlin

Sarah

Fram celebrate 50 years with win

FRAMPTON Cotterell Rugby Club celebrated its 50th anniversary with a dinner/ dance at the Doubletree hotel in Bristol.

The 280 guests included founder members, current players, old players and friends old and new.

One founder member, Brian Williams, even flew over from America to celebrate with his former players at the event in January.

The club was formed in 1973 and has gone from strength to strength, running three seniors' teams as well as colts, vets, juniors, ladies and girls' teams.

A great event, organised by club captain Mike Ashwin with help from Teresa Stiles and Tom Bohr, with photographer Simon Goodwin of Platinum Photography.

Tony Swash spoke on behalf of Bristol Combination before handing over to our guest speaker, former International referee Nigel Owens.

As if by fate, Frampton first team won away at league leaders Bream that day, inflicted the hosts' first home defeat in two years and their first loss this season in the league.

Mike Weaver

Wildcats thriving at Coalpit Heath

THE football season is heading towards its final few games and many of Coalpit Heath's older age teams are in the mix for promotions – the under-12s and U13s especially.

We have a record number of players this year, and the two areas we pride ourselves on are the Wildcats team of girls from the age of six to 11 being introduced to the skills of football, and our Football Stars programme, which is doing the same but for the younger ages of four to six.

We kicked off our Wildcats programme last year and have over 20 girls attending every week.

The players are now kitted out with sponsored shirts and awaiting their first game against another club in March.

Our aim is to then build smaller teams through the age groups, so they can build and become teams in their own right.

The Wildcats team is headed by Karen, who pays lots of attention to ensuring new players are coached to be confident with

a football.

The Wildcats train every Wednesday from 7-8pm at Winterbourne Academy. In the summer they will revert to the Manor Fields in Coalpit Heath.

We are always looking for more players, so do get in touch if your child is interested.

Our Football Stars programme is always looking for players. Training takes place every Saturday from 9-10am at Yate Academy during the wetter months, then back to the Manor Fields during the warmer months.

We’re looking for a coach to help us on Football Stars – we offer fully-funded training to the right candidate.

All our coaches are appropriately trained, as you’d expect, and our values as a club are to encourage growth and for everyone to enjoy themselves.

If you are interested in attending training or helping out within the club, we will never say no to a volunteer!

For more information contact us on info@coalpitheathfc.org.uk

. Stuart Aris

Founder members of Frampton Cotterell RFC. Picture: Simon Goodwin, Platinum Photography

Knowle win a highlight in tough run of games

BADMINTON & Pucklechurch hockey girls' first game of 2024, after a nice break, was away against Westberries 5's.

This would prove to be a very fast-paced, tough game, with Westberries being clinical and quick to mark us, not allowing a goal to go past them.

Despite Baps losing 6-0, hearing the umpire say that the scoreline didn't reflect the game shows what a good fight the girls gave. The players' player award went to Gemma Collins.

Next up was Wick 2's away, in what is always a very close battle. Baps took an early lead, thanks to a follow-up goal from Kirsty Chaney.

Some immaculate passing and top communication led to many shots on goal, with a second coming from a short corner stop and strike from Julieanne Parker.

Wick continued the battle, forcing Baps to have a crazy five minutes and concede a goal. A tense, end-to-end second half saw Wick get an equaliser in the final minutes, finishing the game 2-2. Player of the match went to Tess Bateman on her debut.

With their heads held high, a home game at Yate Outdoor Sports Complex against top-of-the-table Bristol & West Jaspers

followed. Well drilled and organised, two short corners in quick succession put the visitors 2-0 up in the first half. In true Baps spirit, we kept chipping away and put them under pressure, having a few shots on goal ourselves. Despite the girls best efforts, B&W Jasps were the stronger team and scored two more to win 4-0. Baps player of the match was goalkeeper Vanessa Hall, for

keeping the scoreline down.

We then faced our hockey family favourites, Knowle 2's.

All the girls had certainly had a good breakfast, as within the first five minutes a great run into the D and skilful shot from Kirsty Chaney got Baps off the mark.

This was followed by some great defensive work, with Lisa Bailey and Gemma Collins both saving one off the line. Strong running through the centre midfield, and by youngster Naomi Bailey, would create a short corner opportunity that led to a second goal from forward Nicki Trueman.

A third from Charley McCafferty and a fourth from Laura Woodward, which both came from cross passes from Kirsty Chaney, meant that come the final whistle it was 4-0 to the girls in teal.

Naomi Bailey won the player of the match award.

In what is proving a tough season, the Baps girls remain in very good spirits and continue to support and encourage each other – something we pride ourselves at doing.

Lisa Rigby

The Badminton & Pucklechurch hockey team