Yate & Sodbury Voice November 2023

yate&sodburyvoice www.yateandsodburyvoice.co.uk

November, 2023 Issue 102

FREE EVERY MONTH IN YATE, CHIPPING SODBURY & SURROUNDING VILLAGES

Champions!

Jailed for murder Esmè Mathias and Natalia Gilbert of Yate's King Edmund Acro won a gold medal for Great Britain at the European Acrobatic Gymnastics Championships in Bulgaria.

Sport: Page 28

'Difficult decisions' for council AN end to free parking, hikes in charges and cuts to discounts on council tax bills are all in prospect as South Gloucestershire Council faces "incredibly difficult decisions" about its finances.

The council needs to fill a £7.7 million hole in its finances before setting next year's budget and council tax.

It has launched a series of consultations asking residents how money can be saved, from

introducing charges for on and off-street car parking to cutting black bin collections and library opening hours.

The prospect of introducing car parking charges has already sparked a fierce row between the council's Liberal Democrat-Labour coalition and opposition Conservatives over who is to blame.

Turn to page 3

A MAN who stabbed his friend to death after a drunken row in a pub has been jailed for life.

PAGE 4

Inspector sacked

THE inspector in charge of Yate and Sodbury's neighbourhood policing teams raped a woman in a hotel room, a misconduct panel has found.

PAGE 2

Conman in court

A YATE rogue trader conned a pensioner and a young family from the town out of thousands.

PAGE 9

Making a difference A FUNDRAISER from Yate and a street marshal from Chipping Sodbury have been honoured with awards.

PAGE 10

yate&sodburyvoice

2

yate&sodburyvoice December deadline Our December edition deadline is November 15.

Yate & Sodbury Voice contacts Advertising Enquiries Richard Drew, Publisher

Ken McCormick, Editor contact@yateandsodburyvoice.co.uk

Follow us on Twitter @YandSVoice

01454 800 120 contact@yateandsodburyvoice.co.uk Find us on Facebook www.facebook.com Search for yate and sodbury voice

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

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

Police

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

COMPLAINTS Despite our best efforts, we sometimes get things wrong. We always try to resolve issues informally at first but we also have a formal complaints procedure. If you have a complaint about anything in Yate & Sodbury Voice, contact the publisher using the details below. We aspire to follow the Code of Conduct of the NUJ (National Union of Journalists), which holds journalists to a high standard of behaviour. Further details of the complaints process can be found on the Voice website here, or can be obtained by contacting the Publisher.

PUBLISHER’S NOTE: Yate & Sodbury Voice is independent. We cannot take responsibility for content or accuracy of adverts, and it is advertisers’ responsibility to conform to all relevant legislation. We cannot vouch for any services offered. Opinions are not necessarily those of the editor. Yate & Sodbury Voice is distributed each month to local residents. If for some reason you do not get a copy, please get in touch or collect one from local pick-up points. Feedback is welcomed, contact@yateandsodburyvoice.co.uk

A member of the

November, 2023

n NEWS

Police inspector raped woman A POLICE inspector raped a woman in a hotel room while he was offduty, a misconduct panel has found.

Clive Summerill, who had been in charge of all South Gloucestershire's neighbourhood policing teams before the incident, has been sacked without notice for his "shocking and reprehensible" action.

An Avon & Somerset police misconduct panel heard that Insp Summerill's actions were subject to a three-month criminal investigation by another police force, which has not been named.

No further action was taken after it was decided there was insufficient evidence to bring charges that could be proved beyond reasonable doubt, the test used in criminal cases.

However the panel - which decides cases on the balance of probabilities - concluded that Insp Summerill had raped the woman.

It found he took advantage of her when she was so drunk she could not remember the incident, but had awoken to find herself naked, knowing someone had had sex with her.

Insp Summerill had denied the offence and alternative allegations of sexual assault and having sex with a person who was vulnerable due to intoxication.

He claimed the woman had started kissing him, on a night when he was staying away from home in October 2021.

Insp Summerill insisted he and the woman, who cannot be identified, did not have sexual intercourse, saying they had a “drunken fumble" but "more than a kiss and a cuddle”.

The panel, led by a independent legally qualified chair (LQC), found that he raped the woman, and committed gross misconduct.

Insp Summerill accepted a fourth allegation, that he had identified the woman to other people, but denied this amounted to misconduct.

However, the panel disagreed.

He was dismissed on the spot at the end of the five-day hearing on September 29.

Insp Summerill had been the South Gloucestershire Neighbourhood Inspector since at least 2015.

He was suspended three weeks after the allegation was made against him, on full pay.

Avon & Somerset Constabulary head of professional standards Superintendent Mark Edgington said: “The panel, led by an independent LQC, has found that on the balance of probabilities – the burden of proof required at misconduct hearings – this officer committed rape against a woman.

“This has been a complex and sensitive investigation and our priority has been to safeguard and support the woman involved, while carrying out a robust and thorough examination of the circumstances.

“The panel’s findings mean this officer has committed a shocking and reprehensible act, and while there was insufficient evidence for criminal proceedings to be brought, he’s not fit to have the privilege of serving our communities and will be banned from holding another position in policing or law enforcement again.

“We’ll keep shining a light into all corners of the organisation to ensure there’s no place for those who engage in predatory behaviour such as this to hide, and when allegations are made, they will be subject to rigorous and decisive examination with criminal and/or misconduct proceedings being instigated if the evidential thresholds are met."

Insp Barny Mabbett has been appointed the force's new neighbourhood inspector following Insp Summerill's sacking.

By Adam Postans, Local Democracy Reporting Service

Follow us online - www.yateandsodburyvoice.co.uk For Newsdesk Or Advertising contact 01454 800 120

Email: contact@yateandsodburyvoice.co.uk

November, 2023

yate&sodburyvoice

3

n NEWS

Public asked to help choose charges or cuts From page 1 A draft budget was approved in October, proposing an end to free parking, doubling green bin charges, a new admin fee for disabled blue-badge holders and a 20% rise in the cost of burial rights at cemeteries.

The proposals are now open for public consultation.

Consultants say a proposed increase in the garden waste charges from £30 to £60 would raise £1.3 million a year.

The report said introducing car park charges would raise £1.5m to £2m a year, following set-up costs of up to £800,000, but further work was needed to consider details such as whether long and short stay charges and resident permit schemes were needed.

Council-owned car parks include the Yate Park & Ride in Badminton Road, which has more than 240 spaces, and the town's Abbotswood, Cranleigh Court Road, Kennedy Way, Longs Drive, and Yate Leisure Centre car parks, which between them have more than 300 spaces.

Other shopping centre car parks, including Yate Shopping Centre, Waitrose in Chipping Sodbury and the Mall at Cribbs Causeway are not council-owned, so would not be affected by the proposals.

Chipping Sodbury's Town Car Park, next to the Waitrose car park, is run by the town council and also not included.

Council leader Claire Young (Lib Dem, Frampton Cotterell) and co-leader Ian Boulton (Lab, Staple Hill & Mangotsfield) said they wanted the consultation to be meaningful but agreed the savings and revenue targets would be “frustrating” for

Council leader Claire Young and co-leader Ian Boulton say the authority faces some "incredibly difficult decisions" many residents.

Cllr Young said: “We are going to be able to balance our budget for the coming year, but not without taking some incredibly difficult decisions that will affect much-loved and relied-upon services.

“We do have choices ahead, but none of them will be easy.

“The reality is that councils across the country are badly underfunded by central government, who seem content to pass the responsibility for increasing amounts of services onto local authorities without the money to pay for them, and to blame councils for increasing council taxes to balance the books."

Cllr Boulton added: "We will have to prioritise, and that’s why we want to talk to and hear from residents during the consultations to come, about how they want

us to act on their behalf."

Arguments about who is to blame for the proposed charges boiled over when the draft budget was approved, on October 5.

The Lib Dem-Labour coalition says this year's budget, approved in February before control of the authority changed hands at May’s local elections, included £7m of “income generating targets” for next year, with up to £2m of them from parking charges.

Opposition Conservatives accused the coalition of “spreading deliberate mistruths” by pinning the proposed fees on the former Tory administration.

Tory group leader Sam Bromiley said: “I can categorically state on the record now that the budget approved by council in February did not seek to introduce car parking charges in South Gloucestershire.

“The budget contained a review of some potential income generating schemes with the aim of identifying other opportunities to raise income, but when parking charges were raised during the resource allocation process, we Conservatives, when in administration, chose to remove it.

“To paint us as the architects of parking charges is incredibly dishonest.”

But Cllr Young insisted: “Officers have assured us that the income generation targets assume the inclusion of parking charges.”

Cabinet member for planning, regeneration and infrastructure Lib Dem Cllr Chris Willmore said if the Tories had a way of raising money without parking charges, she was "all ears".

By Adam Postans, Local Democracy Reporting Service

Council wants your views SOUTH Gloucestershire Council has launched a total of four consultations where it is asking residents their views on cuts or charges. *The main budget consultation runs until December 8 and asks people their views on introducing car parking charges, bringing in a £10 charge for blue badges for disabled drivers and increasing charges relating to burials and house purchases.

Cuts to the Council Tax Reduction Scheme, a discount for low-income households, are also being proposed.

The consultation also includes questions on whether some services should be stopped, more services transferred to parish councils and community groups and

whether council working practices should be changed.

People are also asked their preferred level of council tax rise for next year, from a freeze to a 4.99% rise - the maximum allowed - and which areas the council should prioritise to tackle inequality. *A household waste consultation asks people whether they would be prepared to have their black bins collected every three or four weeks and what effect this change would have on them.

It runs until January 7. *A library savings consultation asks people how often they use their local library, which services they use and whether staffed opening hours or the budget for books should be cut, along with

For Newsdesk Or Advertising contact 01454 800 120

ideas for "other ways we could save money from within our library services". It runs until January 10. *A late night street lighting consultation, also running until January 10, asks people if they would support dimming the district's street lights by varying amounts in the middle of the night and whether some areas should be prioritised for brighter lighting at the expense of others.

All of the consultations can be found on the consultations page of the council's website, consultations.southglos.gov.uk/ consult.ti.

People who are not online can call 01454 868009 for help.

Email: contact@yateandsodburyvoice.co.uk

4

yate&sodburyvoice

November, 2023

n NEWS

Murderer stabbed friend to death after row A MAN who stabbed his friend to death after a drunken row in a Charfield pub has been jailed for life.

Grant Bradley, aged 46, had denied murdering Marcus Dunkerton on a Friday night in June last year.

But a jury found him guilty and Judge Peter Blair jailed him for life, with a minimum term of 23 years, at the end of September.

The trial at Bristol Crown Court heard that Bradley and Mr Dunkerton, who was 40, had spent the evening of June 24 last year at the Railway Tavern in Wotton Road.

Avon and Somerset police said Mr Dunkerton was told to leave by the landlady, after a drunken row ended with him punching Bradley and pushing Bradley’s partner.

Bradley admitted going to Thames Close, where Mr Dunkerton lived with his partner and their young daughter.

There he punched Mr Dunkerton, who was lying on a sofa, before stabbing him five times in the buttocks and leg.

Bradley then left the house, despite Mr Dunkerton's partner's attempts to restrain him, and went to a house in Avon Road, where he was living at the time.

Mr Dunkerton's partner called police and the ambulance service shortly before 11pm but he could not be saved, and died just before midnight.

Grant Bradley has been jailed for life A post-mortem examination later found that Mr Dunkerton had been stabbed five times and that the cause of death was the severing of one of his femoral arteries, the main blood vessel for each leg.

Bradley was arrested on Manor Lane shortly after 11.30pm.

He denied intending to cause serious harm or inflicting the fatal blow.

The court heard that detectives tracked Bradley leaving the pub, going to his home in Avon Road, and then to Thames Close, using CCTV and doorbell camera footage.

The prosecution said he went home to get a knife, although Bradley claimed he had the kitchen knife with him already,

and used it for work.

Bradley, who gave an address in Kidderminster, Worcestershire, to the court, was convicted of murder.

Afterwards, Detective Inspector Neil Meade of the Avon and Somerset police Major Crime Investigation Team, who led the investigation, said: "We may never know what triggered the dispute between these two friends, but it’s clear that alcohol played a significant part in the events leading up to Marcus’s death.

"This has been an incredibly difficult time for Marcus’s family, and I would like to commend them for their dignity and support.

"Marcus’s partner Nicola, especially, was cross-examined in court as Bradley tried to throw the blame on her - but the jury saw through this and determined that Grant Bradley alone was responsible for Marcus’s death."

Afterwards Mr Dunkerton's family said they would never forgive Bradley for taking an "excellent father", whose loss had left "a huge hole in our lives".

The family said: "Marcus was murdered in his family home, where he lived with his partner, daughter and two stepchildren.

"Marcus was a much-loved partner, father, stepfather, son and brother, and he will be sadly missed by all of us.

"As a family we are all now sentenced to a lifetime of being without him; there will be so

Marcus Dunkerton had been Bradley's friend many milestones and special occasions that Marcus will not see or be able to attend.

"These occasions will be a constant reminder that he has been taken from us all.

"He will never walk his daughter down the aisle when she gets married, he will never have the joy of becoming a grandfather.

"Marcus was taken from us tragically and far too soon, in one senseless act of violence.

"Our lives will never be the same without Marcus.

"There isn’t a sentence that will make us feel better or bring Marcus back, but following a two-week harrowing trial, justice was finally served.

"We will never forgive Grant Bradley for what he did."

Carpets • Luxury Vinyl Tiles Laminates • Engineered Wood Room Size Remnants Vinyls • Artificial Grass

Tel: 01454 620707

Email: enquiries@phoenix flooringltd.co.uk www.phoenixflooringltd.co.uk OPEN TO THE PUBLIC AND TRADE

For Newsdesk Or Advertising contact 01454 800 120

Unit 15 Walker Way Thornbury Bristol BS35 3US

Email: contact@yateandsodburyvoice.co.uk

yate&sodburyvoice

November, 2023

5

n NEWS

Schools join together in 'campus for learning' TWO schools in Yate have joined forces as a "campus for learning".

Broadway Infants and The Ridge Junior School, which share extensive grounds on Broadway at the entrance to the Ridge estate, have formed the Bridgeway Federation.

Both schools will retain their names, budgets, staffing and uniforms, but will now share some resources with a single governing body.

The news comes as Broadway Infants has been judged 'good' all round in its latest Ofsted report.

The inspection in July found Broadway to be a "happy and joyful school".

Lead inspector Jason Edge said: ”Pupils enjoy attending because they feel well cared for.

"They eagerly and confidently share their pride in the school with visitors.”

The report, published in late September, said there was clear a transition processes for children starting in Reception, which helps them settle quickly and "get off to a flying start".

It praised leaders, including school governors, for knowing the school well and establishing a “well sequenced curriculum” through the school.

The inspector said: “Leaders have created plans that clearly identify the knowledge they want pupils to learn.

"This helps support teachers in knowing precisely what to teach and when."

The inspector said school leaders "ensure that reading has the utmost importance within the curriculum", and had introduced a new phonics

Above: Staff and pupils at Broadway Infant School Below: Broadway head Jodie Tumelty and Ridge deputy head Kate Forman at the celebration event

scheme to help pupils learn to read.

The school also uses trips to help support pupils’ learning in the curriculum, helping them to apply what they already know and deepen their knowledge further, and organises clubs, including art, choir and sports clubs to develop their talent beyond the curriculum.

To further improve the

inspector said teachers and subject leaders needed to use assessment systems in other subjects better, to identify how well pupils learn key content across the curriculum, find gaps in knowledge and adapt future learning.

Head teacher Miss Jodie Tumelty said she was proud of the school community.

She said: “I feel the inspection

was an accurate representation of Broadway, and of all the hard work we have done.

“Many of our parents wrote wonderful comments in their feedback to the inspectors, saying their children ‘go to school every day with a smile on their face'.”

Chair of governors Carol Warrant said: "The report truly reflects our school. Governors are extremely proud of our staff and children.”

Ridge Junior School headteacher Philip Boult said the joining of the schools in a federation followed many years of strong links between them.

He said: “We have long regarded the school site as a ‘campus’ for learning.

“Whilst retaining their special identities as infant and junior settings, which parents value, a lot of work has gone into making the learning as ‘joined up’ as possible.

“This has been very successful and recognised in positive Ofsted reports over the years.

"The next step is a federation led by a single governing body.

This will take the collegiality of provision forward for even better outcomes and experiences for pupils and parents.”

The schools held a celebration event for the new federation at the end of September, with a cake, new school banners, commemorative pencils and stickers.

Mrs Tumelty said Broadway Infants was delighted with the move, which she said would help the schools work together to serve the local community.

Day Centre Activity Club Living the best life in later life Join us for laughter-filled sessions with intergenerational events, chair-based sport, art & painting, craft, day trips and much more!

Bristol & South Glos Venues Transport available Hot Healthy Lunch included

kitchen design and supply www.benchkitchens.co.uk ✆ 0117 3293790

49 Broad Streets, Staple Hill, BS16 5LS

For Newsdesk Or Advertising contact 01454 800 120

We also have limited availability to host sessions in Residential settings

Email: contact@yateandsodburyvoice.co.uk

6

yate&sodburyvoice

November, 2023

n NEWS

40 fire service jobs to go in 'dangerous' cuts COUNCILLORS have "reluctantly" approved plans to decimate Avon’s full-time frontline firefighters - despite warnings that it will put lives and homes at risk.

Avon Fire Authority's committee heard 40 posts needed to be cut to plug a £2 million budget gap.

Members said it was the “least worst option”, because it meant no fire stations or fire engines would be lost.

But the Fire Brigades Union told the meeting on October 4 that the cuts would endanger both residents and crews.

FBU Avon brigade secretary Amanda Mills said householders would be left without adequate cover and that firefighters’ safety in life-or-death situations was on the line without the necessary resources.

She told the meeting at Avon Fire & Rescue Service headquarters in Portishead: “The reduction of 40 firefighters amounts to just over 10% of whole-time frontline staff.

“Should your constituents, who we serve, accept these dangerous cuts?”

Ms Mills said the savings, which would be made largely through reducing crew sizes from five to four on water tender ladders that

attend incidents, would have a huge impact.

She said: "In a house fire, a fifth person is a crucial safety measure who monitors our air supply and sends vital messages back to our incident commander. At the scene of a road traffic collision, all five crew play a vital role."

South Gloucestershire councillor Ben Nutland (Lib Dem, Yate North) said: "Reluctantly we are going to have to do this because by law we have to have a balanced budget – I will hate myself for doing this."

Bristol city councillor Richard Eddy (Con, Bishopsworth) said: “I don’t believe a single member around this table wants to receive this report today or make this decision."

He said the cuts were "the least worst option".

Fire authority chairwoman Brenda Massey (Lab, Southmead) said: “We all feel similar about this – it’s not something we would want to do but we have to do it and we will make the best out of it that we possibly can.”

Chief fire officer Simon Shilton said: "In an ideal world we would not have to make these difficult decisions but unfortunately the harsh reality is that we must take the funding

For Newsdesk Or Advertising contact 01454 800 120

we have and find innovative ways to use our resources.

“We will not compromise firefighter safety, we will work with trade unions to ensure we put the right policies and procedures in place while finding these efficiency savings.”

The job cuts will be made over the next three years by not replacing retiring firefighters, rather than redundancies.

Members voted 12-2, with one abstention, in favour of having four personnel on every pumping appliance at wholetime stations, apart from Hicks Gate, whose ladder vehicles would remain at five.

After the meeting FBU general secretary Matt Wrack said the union would "fiercely resist" the cuts.

Regional secretary Dave Roberts said the authority had "voted to put cost-cutting before public and firefighter safety", adding: “Firefighters across the region are furious at this shameful decision."

By Adam Postans, Local Democracy Reporting Service

Email: contact@yateandsodburyvoice.co.uk

November, 2023

yate&sodburyvoice

7

n NEWS

Calendar shows Chipping Sodbury at its best A CALENDAR showing some of Chipping Sodbury's most beautiful views has gone on sale to help improve the town.

The 2024 calendar has been produced by Chipping Sodbury Chamber of Commerce, using pictures taken by professional photographer and joint chamber chair Rich McDonagh, better known as Rich McD. Fellow joint chair Andrew Webb said: "Another year has gone by and we have an amazing new calendar showing views of our town - as the title says, please Visit Our Town."

The 2024 calendar is now on sale in the Tourist Information Centre and Card Boutique in Chipping Sodbury, priced at £6.50 each or two for £12.

Profits from the calendar will go back into the chamber's work supporting the town.

Far left: Photographer Rich McD with the calendar Left: The calendar's colourful cover

EAR WAX REMOVAL

• Using latest micro suction techniques • Treatments carried out by EXPERIENCED PRACTITIONERS • Very competitive prices Clinic based in Brimsham Park, Yate Parking available directly outside the clinic

 hayley@hjtherapies.co.uk  07846 452 000 / 01454 314 460  www.hjtherapies.co.uk

ALEXANDRA CORK

HOME DESIGNS Architectural plans drawn for your home QUICK ACCURATE & AFFORDABLE SERVICE FREE CONSULTATION - DESIGN & ADVICE SURVEYS AND PLANS DRAWN PLANNING PERMISSION SOUGHT

07867 592195 • info@alexandracork.co.uk

www.alexandracork.co.uk

HLB Footcare

Mobile Foot Health Practioner

Mobile Foot Health Practitioner

Home visits for your convenience and comfort • Toe Nail Filing & Cutting Home visits for your convenience and comfort • Thickened Nail Reduction • Corn & Callus Reduction Toe Nail Cutting & Filing • Hard Skin Reduction • DiabeticThickened Footcare Nail Reduction • CrackedCorn Heels& Callus Reduction • Ingrowing ToeSkin NailsReduction (non surgical) Hard

A complimentary foot massage is provided at the end of the treatment Diabetic Footcare Contact me for a friendly and reliable service

Cracked Heels

Hannah Ingrowing Barlow Toe Nails (non-surgical) Fully Insured & Accredited Foot Health Practioner DBS Checked A complimentary foot massage is provided at T: 07519310202 E: hlbfootcare@gmail.com the end of the treatment.

For Newsdesk Or Advertising contact 01454 800 120

Contact for a friendly and reliable service Email:me contact@yateandsodburyvoice.co.uk

Hannah Barlow S.A.C.Dip. RFHP Accredited Foot Health Practitioner

8

yate&sodburyvoice

November, 2023

n NEWS

Businessman illegally burned waste at farm A YATE flooring business owner has been given a suspended prison sentence for illegally burning business waste.

The Environment Agency and South Gloucestershire Council prosecuted David Hemmings, aged 51, of Hatherley, after complaints about burning on a site at River Vale Farm, Chapel Lane, Old Sodbury, in March last year.

In October he was sentenced to a total of 15 weeks in prison, suspended for a year and ordered to pay costs totalling £9,050 and £154 victim surcharge after admitting five offences related to operating an illegal waste site, under the Environmental Protection Act and planning regulations.

Bristol Magistrates Court heard that the Environment Agency and the council

investigated following repeated complaints of burning at the farm site and found piles of mixed waste, including hardcore, wood, paper, black bin bags, electrical items, plastics and building waste.

There was also a pile of carpet offcuts next to other partially burnt piles of waste.

The agency said Hemmings had an exemption intended to allow for hardcore to be taken to the site to restore farm tracks and lanes, but this work had not been carried out.

He claimed that he sorted through waste, removing mixed waste and plastic so that it could be taken to a regulated site, but the exemption didn't allow him to take business waste for sorting.

Hemmings admitted having a number of fires to dispose of waste from his flooring business,

Investigators found huge piles of waste dumped at the site including wooden pallets, plastics and carpets.

A five-year Community Behaviour Order banning him from burning waste at the site, except for green waste originating there, was imposed at the hearing.

Hemmings was also prohibited from bringing waste onto the site, except for carpet off-cuts intended to be used as root protection for new trees being planted.

Hemmings was also ordered to return the site to its previous state.

Afterwards Environment Agency senior environmental crime officer Clive Clasby, said: “The defendant was trying to cut corners and save money without any regard for the environment.

"It’s not acceptable to illegally

take waste to a site instead of having it disposed of by contracting a licensed waste carrier to take it to a regulated site."

Council cabinet member for environmental enforcement Leigh Ingham said: “This result follows a protracted investigation that demonstrates the tenacity and determination of both organisations in bringing offenders to court.

“This was a shocking case that showed a complete lack of regard for the laws regarding waste disposal and for the environment.

"When the rest of us strive to recycle everything we can and dispose of our rubbish responsibly, burning a vast amount of waste such as this is almost beyond belief and completely unacceptable."

CleanOvenCo Bring Back the Shine

CleanOvenCo simply clean ovens!

Singles, doubles, Ranges, Agas, hobs and extractors 07942 863741 info@cleanovenco.co.uk www.cleanovenco.co.uk For Newsdesk Or Advertising contact 01454 800 120

Email: contact@yateandsodburyvoice.co.uk

yate&sodburyvoice

November, 2023

9

n NEWS

Rogue trader conned pensioner and family A ROGUE trader from Yate conned a pensioner after he was recommended to her on Facebook as a kitchen fitter.

Daniel Dewfall, aged 38, stole £4,368 from the woman, as well as £1,700 from a young Yate family for a bathroom that was never fitted.

He also defrauded an employer out of £4,400.

South Gloucestershire Council’s trading standards team launched an investigation and Dewfall has now been given a one-year suspended jail sentence and ordered to pay his victims over £10,000 in compensation, plus £1,000 in costs.

Bristol Magistrates heard that trading standards received a complaint from a 73-year-old Warmley woman in April 2021 after Dewfall was recommended to her on Facebook the previous December.

He agreed to remove her old kitchen and supply and fit a new one and was paid £3,900 upfront for the kitchen to be bought from supplier Howdens, with a further £468 paid for electrical works, working as a sole trader on the side from his then job.

The council said Dewfall removed the woman's existing kitchen but "did very little work thereafter", leaving her to wash her dishes in the bath for four weeks.

A council spokesperson said: "The installation start date kept moving back for a number of reasons and Dewfall made excuse after excuse, some of which were proved to be lies.

"Trading Standards were aware of Daniel Dewfall due to past dealings with him and were able to identify him quickly.

"He was provided ample opportunity to repay the £4,368, which he agreed to do.

"However, after making several excuses he failed to repay the money, leaving Trading

Standards no choice but to take formal action against him."

The spokesperson said Dewfall then attempted to buy the kitchen using the trade account of his then employer, who has not been named.

The spokesperson said: "It was quickly established that he had no permission from his employer to use the account for anything other than in the course of his employment.

"Following this Dewfall was given opportunities by Howdens to pay for the kitchen personally but failed to do so. The kitchen had to be purchased again at the expense of the customer."

Dewfall also left a Yate family out of pocket after agreeing to install a new bathroom, taking £1,700 of their money and failing to carry out any work - he still owes them £800.

The court heard Dewfall was working as a supervisor for a building maintenance company from February 2022 to May this year when he was found to be using its business credit card and trade accounts for his own purposes, and directed members of his team to carry out personal work for him during company hours.

Dewfall pleaded guilty to two charges of theft and one of fraud.

Sentencing him on September 29 Judge William Hart said the offences had not only deprived his victims of money but had made their lives "miserable".

Afterwards council cabinet member for trading standards Leigh Ingham said: "We encourage our residents to only deal with trusted tradesmen and to make all agreements in writing.

"Be sure to do your research and be cautious when using websites such as Facebook."

To report rogue trading, call trading standards on 0808 223 1133.

Follow us online www.yateandsodburyvoice.co.uk For Newsdesk Or Advertising contact 01454 800 120

Email: contact@yateandsodburyvoice.co.uk

yate&sodburyvoice

10

n NEWS

November, 2023

Awards for people who make a difference A FUNDRAISER from Yate and a street marshal from Chipping Sodbury have been honoured at a charity award ceremony.

Sarah Hitchins raised £65,000 for the Grand Appeal for Bristol Children’s Hospital.

She was highly commended in the BBC Make a Difference local radio awards.

John Scully was nominated for his work helping keep Sodbury’s streets peaceful and safe, and was also honoured at the event.

Sarah, who works as assistant manager at the Horsehoe pub in Chipping Sodbury, was nominated by landlady Joanne Lewis, who said Sarah had been tirelessly fund raising for 14 years, with raffles, gin nights and discos.

Joanne said: “She has been fundraising with no recognition all these years and I thought that was very impressive.

“She was doing it with her father, Jerry Milner, who she tragically lost earlier this year to a heart attack.

"But Sarah has managed to find the strength through the tears to continue without him and hit the remarkable target of £65,000.

“I nominated her so she would know local people care about what she has been doing.”

Sarah said she started fundraising to help people in the community who needed a hand. On top of the £65,000 for the Grand Appeal, she has also raised money for other local causes, including to buy an electric wheelchair for a resident, school events and more.

Sarah Hitchins with her award She said: “I like to help local charities and local people. I try to do events everyone can join in with, like a Disney kids' disco, or a cocktail night for the adults.

“I just enjoy doing it - it is nice to get people together for a good time, and at the same time raise awareness and funds for a charity.

“My dad was my main supporter and always helped with any fundraising, and came along.

"He was 72 when he died, so my next target is to reach £72,000 to say thanks to him.”

At the same event, at Weston-superMare's Grand Pier, street marshal John

Scully was honoured in the bravery category, for his work on Chipping Sodbury High Street, where he tirelessly ensures the safety and well-being of the public and local community.

John's commendation said: “His commitment to public safety has not gone unnoticed, as he has played a vital role in maintaining order and security in the heart of the town.”

He was nominated by Gabrielle Davis, general manager of the George Hotel and chair of Chipping Sodbury Pub Watch, who described him as a “true hero”.

Gabrielle said that over the years John has demonstrated unwavering dedication to his role. He has broken up fights, provided first aid, and even disarmed a man with a suspected firearm.

John said he was honoured to be recognised.

He said: "I love Chipping Sodbury and I've always believed in looking out for others.

"To be recognised for doing what I love is a tremendous privilege."

The BBC Make a Difference Awards were launched during the pandemic in 2020.

Each BBC Local Radio station asks listeners to nominate local heroes, and hosts an award event.

You can learn more about Sarah’s fund raising at the Horseshoe’s Facebook page, facebook.com/horseshoesodbury.

n LOCAL MP

We must make sure parking stays free FREE parking in South Gloucestershire Council has been something residents have been able to rely on for years.

It helps and supports local families, businesses, and improves access for vulnerable people in our community.

So it is extremely disappointing that South Gloucestershire have proposed introducing parking charges in council-owned car parks.

For our rural communities, free, accessible parking is a lifeline.

For those who cannot get

a bus to our local shopping centres and for families with their young children, the opportunity to park up in our council-owned car parks and not have to pay makes a huge difference.

And equally for our local businesses, free car parking is a huge boost, ensuring regular footfall and encouraging customers to use local services.

All these car parking charges are going to do is punish local businesses by making customers shop and visit elsewhere, force cars to

For Newsdesk Or Advertising contact 01454 800 120

park in all the surrounding residential roads rather than in designated car parks, and reduce access for some of the most vulnerable residents in South Gloucestershire.

This feels like just another way to penalise motorists, undermine our local businesses and damage our High Street economy.

I have launched a petition, calling on the council to stop the car parking charges, and to keep parking free in our towns and villages.

The petition will be

Luke Hall MP writes for Thornbury Voice

submitted directly to South Gloucestershire Council, and I will be clear they should reverse this decision, and keep the pledge all parties made in their local manifestos to protect free car parking.

South Gloucestershire has always been the best place in the country to live, work and start a business. We must keep it that way.

Email: contact@yateandsodburyvoice.co.uk

November, 2023

yate&sodburyvoice

11

n NEWS

School's 'relentless' drive to improve rewarded A VILLAGE school has completed a turnaround in fortunes with a 'good' rating from Ofsted.

The education watchdog visited "inclusive and welcoming" Hawkesbury C of E Primary School in Hawkesbury Upton in September.

The inspection came four years on from the regulator's previous visit, after which Ofsted said it required improvement.

Inspectors Wendy D’Arcy and Marcia Northeast said the school, which has just 79 pupils aged from four to 11 is now 'good' in all areas - quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision.

The report, published in October, said: "The school has been relentless in their drive to make the necessary improvements since the last inspection.

"The curriculum is well designed and ambitious for all pupils.

"In most subjects, the important knowledge pupils need to learn and remember has been set out. "This means that pupils build their knowledge well over time."

Quoting the school's vision statement, the inspectors said: "'Enabling everyone to flourish’ sits at the very heart of Hawkesbury Church of England Primary School.

"The school is inclusive and welcoming.

"Parents appreciate the nurturing environment and positive relationships between pupils and adults.

"Staff form caring relationships with pupils and know them and their families well.

"Pupils feel safe and know that adults are there to help them."

The report said most adults at the school had high expectations of pupils, and gave them wellestablished routines to follow.

They said: "Pupils are polite and well mannered. They hold doors open for adults and are proud of their school. Pupils of all ages play well together during social times.

Staff and pupils of Hawkesbury C of E Primary School

"Pupils enjoy the many opportunities they have to take on leadership responsibilities across the school. They fulfil their role as worship warriors, house captains and mental health champions with maturity.

"Pupils understand the importance of looking after each other and being kind."

The inspectors said use of mathematics and phonics was good in maths and phonics, to identify gaps in knowledge so the curriculum could be adapted.

They said: "The school ensures that reading is a high priority. The new and effective phonics programme supports pupils to learn to read well."

Ofsted said that to improve further, the school needed to identify the key knowledge teachers want pupils to know in some of the "wider subjects" where the curriculum is new.

The inspectors also praised the opportunities given to pupils to learn outside the curriculum, including first-aid training, learning a musical instrument in school, archery, cross country and a choir.

They said pupils recognised the importance of inclusion and spoke positively about the school's "‘no outsiders’ assembly".

Executive head teacher Mike Riches said: "I am so pleased with the outcome of our recent inspection.

For Newsdesk Or Advertising contact 01454 800 120

"It recognises so many of the positive aspects of our wonderful school.

"The school community has worked tirelessly to secure this

fantastic result over the past four years.

"I am grateful to everyone for all they have done: staff, parents, governors and children."

Email: contact@yateandsodburyvoice.co.uk

yate&sodburyvoice

12

n NEWS

Fight against 'poverty premium'

lpaca Barn

5 3QU

from 10am to 4pm.

lfridgealpaca.co.uk

THE poorest tenants in South Gloucestershire could be automatically put onto the cheapest energy tariffs after the council passed a motion to fight the “poverty premium”.

Councillors voted in favour of proposals to stop residents on the lowest incomes being forced to pay more for essential services such as bills, loans and insurance..

The Liberal Democrat motion was backed by Labour while opposition Conservatives abstained, saying they supported it in principle but that it lacked details, such as the cost of the work to the local authority and officer time required.

A council meeting on October 18 was told one in five low-income households in the district had to fork out an average of £400 more each year – collectively nearly £9 million in total – than their more affluent neighbours via expensive pre-paid meters, more expensive credit and a lack of free-to-use cash machines, known as the "poverty premium".

Council leader Claire Young said: “We cannot stand idle

while a significant portion of our community is unfairly burdened with extra costs.”

Cabinet member for cost of living, equalities and public health Alison Evans (Lab, Woodstock) said people without access to a car were more likely to shop at corner shops than cheaper supermarkets - and also bought a higher proportion of cheaper processed food, leading to "unhealthy children and unhealthy families".

The motion called on the government to address the additional costs for the poorest residents urgently, and committed the council to take local action, including working with social and private landlords to ensure every tenant is placed automatically onto the cheapest suitable energy tariff.

Ben Burton (Con, Frenchay & Downend) said: “My fear is that the rushed nature of this motion with insufficient details has the potential to inadvertently harm vital services or activities that are supporting the most vulnerable in our communities."

By Adam Postans, Local Democracy Reporting Service

November, 2023

Cash for sport and play SPORTS facilities and public open spaces Yate and Wickwar are among those sharing in more than £1.6 million of funding from developers.

South Gloucestershire Council secured the funding for infrastructure projects as part of legal deals in return for planning permission for a number of different building projects across the district.

The cash includes almost £11,800 for Yate Town Council to improve facilities for disability athletics at Yate Outdoor Sports Complex and over £9,700 to improve Millside Play Zone, off Randolph Avenue.

The money was handed over by developers building at Broad Lane in the town.

Around £72,000 paid by builders redeveloping the former We offer delicious Court North Avon Magistrates in Yate will go towards the refurbishment of the Blakeney perfect that special occasion Mills playfor area. or simply to treat yourself!

The council wants to redesign and refurbish the play area, improving accessibility at the same time.

Residents have also expressed an interest in creating a

Afternoon Teas

Visit us at the Wolfridge Alpaca Barn just off the A38 in Alveston BS35 3QU

OPEN

gardening group to enhance the open space.

In Wickwar, nearly £280,000 has been secured from developers to fund the renovation and extension of the existing football pavilion at King George V playing fields by the parish council.

Another £118,000 will go to the parish council towards the construction of a BMX pump track at Wickwar playing fields.

The money has come from the developers of land south of Poplar Lane and Horwood Lane in the village.

Councillor Leigh Ingham, cabinet member for communities and local place at South Gloucestershire Council, said: “It’s great that we’ve managed to negotiate this funding from developers. Accessibility for disabled athletics, sports provision, improving open spaces – these are all really important things.

“It’s vital that developers contribute towards the infrastructure needed when they build a new development. This funding means even more people can enjoy being active where they live.”

Cruising crackdown

Tuesdays - Saturdays 9.30am to 4pm and Sundays from 10am to 4pm.

We are closed on Mondays.

info@wolfridgealpaca.co.uk www.wolfridgealpaca.co.uk NEW powers to stop 07443 894859

We offer delicious

It says cruises cause a risk "car cruising" in South of injury to other road users, Gloucestershire are being including damage perfect for pedestrians, that special occasion or simply to treat yourself! proposed. to property and nuisance The council is consulting on from revving, loud music and a new public spaces protection sounding horns. order (PSPO) for the wholeWe offer deliciousThe authority has launched a which would any consultation for people to have just off thedistrict A38 in Alveston BS35ban 3QU gathering of cars and spectators their say on the proposed ban - it in carOPEN parks and other public can be found online at tinyurl. perfect for that special occasion Tuesdays - Saturdays 9.30am to 4pm Sundays from 10am to or perform simply to 4pm. treat com/3dthtfah yourself! places " inand order to race, and closes on We stunts are closed Mondays. oron show off their vehicles".

January 1.

Afternoon Teas

Visit us at the Wolfridge Alpaca Barn Afternoon Teas

We offer delicious

Afternoon Teas

perfect for that special occasion or simply to treat yourself!

info@wolfridgealpaca.co.uk Visit us at the www.wolfridgealpaca.co.uk Wolfridge Alpaca We offerBarn delicious

MGMTeas Garden Services Afternoon

07443 894859 just off the A38 in Alveston BS35 3QU

OPEN

perfectfrom for 10am that special Tuesdays - Saturdays 9.30am to 4pm and Sundays to 4pm. occasion or simply to treat yourself!

We are closed on Mondays.

• Grass Cutting • Hedge Trimming

• Tree Works • Lawn Care

info@wolfridgealpaca.co.uk www.wolfridgealpaca.co.uk • Patio/Decking Cleaning 07443 894859

Visit us at the Wolfridge Alpaca Barn just off the A38 in Alveston BS35 3QU

OPEN ALLOPEN YEAR ROUND

Tuesdays - Saturdays 9.30am to 4pm and Sundays from 10am to 4pm.

We are closed on Mondays.

info@wolfridgealpaca.co.uk www.wolfridgealpaca.co.uk 07443 894859 For Newsdesk Or Advertising contact 01454 800 120

• General Garden Maintenance Competitive Prices No Job Too Big or Too Small

Why not give us a call for a free quote

07721 791015 Email: contact@yateandsodburyvoice.co.uk

November, 2023

yate&sodburyvoice

13

n NEWS

Sodbury's ancient past uncovered on building site AN archaeological dig at a the back leg of a panther and building site in Chipping leaves was among those found, Sodbury has uncovered a as was a fragment with the fascinating glimpse of life in letters RIAM on it.

Roman times.

Both are believed to have The late Iron Age and been fired in the Roman province early Roman settlement, with of Gaul, now France. roundhouses, lay under a field Three infant bodies were earmarked for a development of found, two of them babies who 90 homes on land west of Trinity died at or around birth and Lane, near Chipping Sodbury the third a child who died aged Golf Club. between a year and 18 months.

Eventual winner Developer Cotswold Homes Evidencerace showed theWout childvan Aert during the stage.

SWPix.com was granted planning permission was likely to Picture: have been "ill for a last summer, more than two long period before their death". years after first applying.

They said: "The results from As part of the process an the investigations at Land west of A piece of pottery from 100-120AD, including a rendition of a warrior archaeological survey was Trinity Road, Chipping Sodbury found at Chipping Sodbury. Picture: Cotswold Archaeology required, and a team from are of regional significance Archaeology’s analysis in the report on its website.

Cotswold Archaeology moved and merit publication as the future.”

A spokesperson for Cotswold onto the site in May last year, site can contribute to our The report to the council can Homes said, “It’s fascinating excavating 30 trenches. understanding of the nature and be seen on the council's planning to hear stories of the history The archaeologists development of rural settlements website by searching for item of Chipping Sodbury. We look have submitted a report on in Gloucestershire during the DOC23/00316. forward to reading Cotswold their findings which has Roman period. been published on South "The excavation identified Gloucestershire Council's phases of Spectators cheer andseveral take pictures as Roman the xxxx planning website.peloton passes the clock occupation, tower inoriginating Chipping in the The dig revealed evidence Late Iron Age to 1st century AD. Sodbury.

Picture: Alan Monaghan for a Roman rural settlement "The provisional phasing including "ditched enclosures, of the features suggests that We offer you friendly, professional expert advice a possible droveway, and a relatively small unenclosed various pits, postholes and other settlement of this period was features". replaced by a more substantial The archaeologists also found settlement in the Early Roman coins, pottery, brooches and period, with at least six the remains of three very young roundhouses and associated children. discrete features, some of which They said the pottery may have been located within a recovered, and analysis of the small enclosure. ditches and soil, showed the "Later Roman activity settlement likely lasted from appeared to be less domestic • Family Law - Divorce & Separation the 1st or 2nd century to the 3rd in nature and may suggest the to 4th, growing over time but a site occupied the periphery of • Child matters "low-status rural settlement". a settlement where the field • Employment Law The finds included 18 Roman boundaries contained areas bronze coins, struck between the for animal husbandry and for • Litigation & Legal Disputes 1st and 3rd centuries - coins with grazing." the heads of Nero, Hadrian and Cotswold Archaeology plans Valentinian I were among those to publish a full excavation found, minted across the empire in what is now France, Croatia and Greece.

A total of 42 other metal CONTACT US TODAY items and fragments were found, including nails and six brooches.

A pottery sherd decorated with a small warrior, anchors, www.bevanevemy.co.uk

LOOKING FOR LEGAL ADVICE?

Your LOCAL Solicitors offer you friendly professional expert advice FLEXIBLE TIMES FOR APPOINTMENTS

FREE 30 MINUTE INITIAL MEETING

0333 320 8600

Meet the team A piece of Gaulish pottery, also from the 2nd century.

For Newsdesk Or Advertising contact 01454 800 120

Tina Bennett

Lynn Bevan

Email: contact@yateandsodburyvoice.co.uk

yate&sodburyvoice

14

November, 2023

n NEWS

Backlog hits domestic abuse checks MORE than 300 requests to tell people if they are at risk of domestic abuse are currently in a police backlog.

Avon and Somerset Police said that all applications for the crucial information were being processed by one person — and this had caused a bottleneck.

Now they say they are bringing in more staff to tackle the issue.

The domestic violence disclosure scheme, commonly known as 'Clare’s law', allows someone at risk of abuse to find out about the previous violent or abusive behaviour of a potential abuser, such as a new partner.

Someone can request information from the police themselves, or a third party can ask the police to tell someone at risk of abuse about their potential abuser’s past.

The police may also disclose information to someone without an application, if they believe they are at risk.

But an inspection by HM Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire & Rescue Services published in March found there were delays in disclosing this information.

The inspectorate rated the force “adequate” for protecting vulnerable people

but ordered them to reduce the backlog.

The inspectorate warned: “If potential victims of domestic abuse or sexual offending aren’t given information promptly, they can’t make an informed decision about their safety and may unknowingly remain at risk.”

Asked for an update at the police and crime commissioner’s performance and accountability board on October 12, Assistant Chief Constable Jon Riley said that the number of pending applications remained at a similar level to when the inspection happened — at just over 300.

He said: “Clearly the volume’s coming in, we’ve cleared some of the backlog, and the numbers have stayed pretty static. But to reassure, we risk assess and triage those applications to make sure the highest risk are dealt with in the first instance.”

Assistant Chief Constable Riley explained that processing the applications had been allocated as a task to one person, because it was a specialised task, but there had then been an increase in applications.

He said: “We have found that individual is a bottleneck, which has caused some of the delays we’ve got at the moment.

“Clearly we’ve had a huge number coming in. The individual themself was not able to facilitate all of the disclosures and we’ve had to put more staff into that.

"Critically, we have now been able to allocate three full time members of staff to join that individual.

“So that recruitment is taking place now internally and they will be in place very quickly.”

When force was inspected, there was also a backlog of applications to disclose information about child sex offenders — with 43 cases waiting to be processed.

Mr Riley said the police had fully caught up with these.

He said that the police were now planning to create a “disclosure team” with the Lighthouse safeguarding unit, to work on disclosure in both domestic violence and child sex offender cases and create “resilience” for both processes.

By John Wimperis, Local Democracy Reporting Service Police & Crime commissioner: Page 25

FUNERALS FROM £975 Unattended Funerals Attended Funerals Bristol Funeral CONTACT US AT: 9 Chessel Street

143 Church Road

The Poplars

381 Gloucester Road

49 High Street

BEDMINSTER

BISHOPSWORTH

HAMBROOK

HORFIELD

KINGSWOOD

0117 963 7848

0117 964 1133

0117 956 6774

0117 942 4039

0117 944 6051

2 Pembroke Road

63 Westbury Hill

SHIREHAMP TON WESTBURY ON TRYM 0117 982 3188

0117 962 8954

10 Gilda Parade WHITCHURCH 01275 833 441

TALK TO US ANY TIME

Whatever your funeral wishes or budget, we can provide a funeral to suit you. Prepaid funeral plans also available.

W W W.RDAVIESFUNER AL S.CO.UK Pricing is correct at time of print and is subject to change.

Price stated is for an Unattended Funeral.

For Newsdesk Or Advertising contact 01454 800 120

Email: contact@yateandsodburyvoice.co.uk

BMC-SatNovember25thConcert-Advert.qxp_Layout 1 24/08/2023 11:34 Page 1

St John the Baptist Church Chipping Sodbury, BS37 6BQ

Saturday November 25th 7:30pm

The City of

BATH

MALE CHOIR

q

q

Yate & Chipping Sodbury Community

Tickets

Conductor SIAN WALTERS

£10 q Supporting

gac.ticketlight.co.uk

or call 0844 8889991

yate&sodburyvoice

16

November, 2023

n NEWS

Flu vaccine for children FREE flu vaccinations are being offered to all primary and secondary school children in South Gloucestershire this winter.

The Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire Integrated Care Board, which is responsible for the day-to-day running of the NHS in the area, has commissioned healthcare provider Sirona to carry out the programme.

An immunisation team is visiting schools over the next few months to deliver the vaccine to pupils from Reception to Year 11.

Among the first to receive their vaccinations were children at Mary’s CE Primary School in Yate, in October.

The vaccine is being administered via a nasal spray rather than a jab.

A Sirona spokesperson said: "Flu can be a very unpleasant illness in children causing a fever, a stuffy nose, dry cough, sore throat, aching muscles and joints,

and extreme tiredness.

"Some children can get a very high fever, sometimes without the usual flu symptoms, and may need to go to hospital for treatment.

"The vaccine helps to protect children, their families, friends and the wider community against flu and serious complications such as bronchitis and pneumonia."

Children in designated special schools are offered vaccinations up to their 18th birthday.

Schools have been sending consent forms to parents and carers - only children with a valid consent will be vaccinated.

The healthcare provider says delivering the programme through schools makes the vaccine more accessible to pupils, which results in higher uptake levels.

Children who are homeeducated will be sent an email or letter by South Gloucestershire Council to enable them to have a vaccine at a community clinic - an

Come Get Your FREE Come inInandAnd get your COVID NHS Jab Today!!

Jabs also FREE NHS FluFlu Jab today!! available

NO APPOINTMEN NO APPOINTMENT REQUIREDT REQUIRED!!

Over 65 years old

Asthmatic /COPD

Heart Condition

Diabetes

Cancer patients & carers

Pregnant Women

Hospice/Social Worker

Parkinson’s Disease/Stroke

Liver / Kidney Disease

Contact us for advice & information:

ABBOTSWOOD PHARMACY, 38 ABBOTSWOOD YATE BS37 4NG

Appointment & Enquiry: 01454 313193 Provided by NHS professionals in your Local Pharmacy

For Newsdesk Or Advertising contact 01454 800 120

A pupil at St Mary’s CE Primary School in Yate receives her vaccination. option also available to children who missed a session at their school.

Traditional jabs are available for children who are clinically severely immunocompromised and unable to have the nasal spray, or to children who cannot have the spray due to its porcine gelatine content.

Sirona’s head of school-aged immunisations and specialist services Karen Evans said:

"Our teams will be carrying out vaccinations in schools five days a week over the next few months.

"Having the vaccine will help protect your child from what can be a very nasty illness in children and provide added protection to their families and friends.”

To book an appointment for a community clinic or the injectable flu vaccine, contact the office via email on sirona.sch-imms@nhs. net.

n PHARMACY NEWS

Why you should get your jabs NHS flu and COVID-19 vaccinations this autumn are offered free of charge to pregnant women, frontline health and social care workers, and family members or neighbours who have unpaid caring responsibilities to the vulnerable.

This group of people, including everyone with a learning disability, with a chronic respiratory disease like asthma, diagnosed with diabetes and household contacts of immunocompromised individuals, sometimes choose not to have their jabs - or do not even know they are eligible.

So why should you get one if you're eligible?

Flu isn’t just a heavy cold.

It’s a highly infectious disease with symptoms that come on very quickly - over 10,000 people die from it each year, while hospitalisations increase pressure on the NHS. Not everyone who has flu or covid will experience symptoms.

This means you are also putting other vulnerable people at risk when you cough and sneeze.

Flu infection increases the chances of pregnant women and

their babies needing intensive care.

All pregnant women should have a flu vaccine to protect themselves and their babies.

Flu vaccine can be given safely at any stage of pregnancy, from conception onwards. It reduces the risk of the baby being stillborn or premature, while also passing on immunity to flu to the newborn baby.

If you had the flu vaccination last year, you need another one this year. Flu viruses can change, so the vaccines are updated each winter to give protection against the strains of flu that are most likely to be going around - the same is true of the COVID-19 vaccine, updated to protect against the most dangerous strains.

We offer both the free NHS flu and COVID vaccines.

You can book online, call 119 or access one of our walk-in appointments.

We also offer affordable private flu vaccination and vaccinations at large work premises.

If you have any questions, contact us on 0117 9246579.

Email: contact@yateandsodburyvoice.co.uk

yate&sodburyvoice

November, 2023

17

n YATE HERITAGE CENTRE

Discovering the history of our railways ON and Off the Rails is a brand new exhibition put together by individual members of the South Gloucestershire Museums Group.

The display charts the history of local railways from the early history of rail in the 1830s to the issues of the 2020s.

Naturally, with a variety of local museums involved, the project threw up a wealth of new information on a host of different subjects, from the working lives of rail staff and past stations to passenger holidays and transporting freight.

It is almost impossible to overemphasise the importance of railways to the history of our area.

Rail freight tells us as much about our modern industrial history as almost any other subject.

As an industrial area, South Gloucestershire freight trains carried a wide range of material from numerous sites.

Rail dominated freight transport before larger lorries and motorways emerged in the 1960s.

During the later 19th and early 20th century, coal was exported from the county by rail, mainly from collieries at Parkfield and Coalpit Heath.

Coal came into the area as fuel to make bricks, clay drainpipes and supply gasworks.

Most stations, such as Chipping Sodbury, housed their own domestic coal merchant.

Stacked bricks, drainpipes, tiles and stone were also common sights on rail lines.

Before the mid 1960s, many stations dealt with farm produce.

Fertilisers and machinery entered South Gloucestershire, while grain and farm animals went

A freight train in Shortwood brickworks sidings. out. Most stations transported milk.

Yate was as much a freight station as a passenger one. On market days, farm livestock and produce was transported from the station following sales at the former Yate Market on Station Road.

Horses for fox hunting were part of seasonal traffic to Badminton and Chipping Sodbury stations.

In the 1960s, rail lost almost all local freight following the Beeching report.

For many local boys, this signalled the end of hours of happy train spotting. Freight trains had always been a significant part of this pastime. By the mid 1960s only express trains sped through most of South Gloucestershire.

However, by the 1970s freight traffic began to increase again.

Tytherington quarry re-opened for stone traffic. Today, there is a fuel terminal at Westerleigh Sidings, and long trains of fuel tankers arrive there several times a week.

Diary dates: Until November 18: On and Off the Rails – Railways of South Gloucestershire.

November 4: Archaeology Finds Day, 11am-3pm. Gloucestershire Portable Antiquities Scheme returns to identify your finds and artefacts. Drop in.

November 14, 7.30pm: Yate Lecture Series – Unbuilt Bristol. Eugene Byrne looks at the ideas the Bristol planning authority had for changing the city that were never used. £2, free for Friends of YHC. Booking essential.

November 28, 7.30pm: Yate Lecture Series – Shot at Dawn. John Reid investigates the punishments meted out to soldiers during the Great War and their consequences. £2, free for Friends of YHC. Booking essential.

November 23-December 10: Yate Academy art exhibition.

More information on yateheritage.co.uk or by calling 01454 862200

For Newsdesk Or Advertising contact 01454 800 120

On and Off the Rails is on at Yate Heritage Centre until November 18. The display is funded by South Gloucestershire Council and supported by Yate Town Council.

The display will travel to Frenchay Museum, Warmley Signal Box, Kingswood Heritage Museum and Thornbury Museum in 2024. *Would you like to volunteer

at Yate & District Heritage Centre?

We have new opportunities to get involved, meet new people, learn new skills and give something back to the community.

Come along to sessions on November 1 from 6pm-8pm or November 2 from 10am-2pm to find out more.

David Hardill

PURSUANT TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF THE CHARITIES Act 2011

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT The Chipping Sodbury Town Trust intends to sell 13.5 acres, being part of the land known as the ‘Stub Riding’ (26.19 acres) for housing development.

This represents 6.75% of the total acreage of The Ridings (200 acres) held by the Chipping Sodbury Town Trust.

The proceeds of this sale will be invested by the Chipping Sodbury Town Trust for the purpose of building, opera�ng and maintaining a new Sports, Recrea�on and Community Centre, and allowing for the remaining part of Stub Riding (12.69 acres) to be developed for addi�onal sports/recrea�onal use.

The new Centre will provide a health and wellbeing ac�vity centre for the community of Chipping Sodbury, and also new premises for the Chipping Sodbury Rugby Football Club, the Chipping Sodbury Town Football Club and the St Nicholas Football Club.

Any representa�ons regarding this development should be directed to the Clerk, Mrs C Hares, by email to catrina_hares@hotmail.com or by post to 59 Ha�ers Lane, Chipping Sodbury, BS37 6AA. All such representa�ons must include your name, postal address and telephone number, and must be received by 30 November 2023.

All representa�ons thus received will be passed to the South Gloucestershire Council planning department when the planning applica�on has been submi�ed.

Signed: C Hares - Clerk to the Trustees Registered Charity number 274443

Email: contact@yateandsodburyvoice.co.uk

yate&sodburyvoice n NEWS FROM THE METRO MAYOR

18

November, 2023

It’s time to switch back to public transport HAVE you caught a bus recently?

Perhaps atrain? Or maybe got on a bike?

If not, please do give them a try. If just some of our car journeys were instead made by bus, train, WESTlink minibuses, e-scooters or the new WESTbikes then, despite what some would have us believe, it could help deal with the climate emergency, reduce pollution and boost our health to reduce the burden on the NHS, and cut congestion to aid our economy.

Post pandemic, our travel habits have changed. Our trains had a 50-50 commuting to leisure split - now it’s only a third of passengers who are commuters. On buses, most passengers are now back, but they are travelling less often.

Luckily there is no shortage of potential passengers out there, with one in nine regional commutes currently made by public transport.

So if you can, do consider switching.

This is the main reason for Birthday Buses.

For those of you who don’t know about Birthday Buses, it’s a simple idea. Throughout the whole month of your birthday, you get unlimited free bus travel. You can apply at www. birthdaybus.co.uk/register.

The whole point of Birthday Buses is to encourage people to try the bus - and then stick with it to bring in more fares to invest in better local transport.

So far, 52% of people who have used Birthday Buses say it has made them more likely to use public transport in the future.

Of course, the proof is really if people keep using buses long term - but scientists tell us that a month is the minimum duration to create lasting behaviour change. So far, the early signs are positive.

Once we’ve got new passengers, that cuts carbon and pollution

(helping reduce the shocking 300 premature deaths locally every year from poor air quality), and cuts congestion (which costs our regional economy £300 million a year).

It also brings in vital cash, for buses don’t run on kindness and fresh air.

They cost money. Increasingly more money, as fuel costs have soared, and bus driver wages increased.

The only way to have a growing and sustainable bus network in the future is to bring in more fare income.

That’s especially the case for the buses that are subsidised by you, the hard-pressed taxpayer, through your council tax. Every extra passenger helps reduce the pressure to spend taxpayer money on bus subsidies.

We have to try new things. Just throwing taxpayers’ money at subsidising buses forever doesn’t work. You spend it. It runs out.

Instead, I’m determined we do things differently here. Whether it’s

Metro Mayor

Dan Norris

writes for the Voice Birthday Buses, WESTlink, where people share journeys, scooters, the new WESTbikes, or WESTlocal for innovative transport solutions, I’m determined we do things in a new way in the West. That’s why I’m driving through changes.

So please give our public transport a go, to help create lasting improvements.

Will Your Fence Survive This Winter? est. 2003

ColourFence Affordable Storm Proof Fencing

25 Years Of Maintenance Free Fencing That Won’t Blow Down

Your Old Fence Taken Down For Free When You Choose ColourFence. Offer ends 31/12/23.

Rest easy in a storm

Withstands gusts up to 130 MPH

Professional Installation Available

100% Recyclable

Maintenance Free

Finance Options

Book a free no obligation survey ORDER A FREE BROCHURE AND SAMPLE PACK

3D Fence Visualiser

colourfencebristol.co.uk

0117 259 1789

Rated Excellent

T&Cs: Excludes Disposal of Old Fence, Hedges and Shrubs.

FENCES FENCE

RAILINGS

GATES

SHEDS

DOMESTIC

For Newsdesk Or Advertising contact 01454 800 120

COMMERCIAL

TRADE

SUPPLY ONLY

Email: contact@yateandsodburyvoice.co.uk

yate&sodburyvoice

November, 2023

19

n NEWS

Krystal helps charity towards its goal A YATE mum-of-two has raised more than £200 for a charity helping people through the cost of living crisis.

Krystal Jarvis was one of a team who ran in October's Bath Half Marathon in support of Citizens Advice South Gloucestershire, which has launched an appeal to raise £30,000 to pay for renovating and equipping a new building in Yate, where it is moving so it can double the number of people it can help face-to-face each week.

The charity provides free, independent, impartial and confidential advice to anyone from South Gloucestershire who needs its help with a wide range of problems including debt, benefits, energy, employment and housing.

It is moving from its current rented building near Yate Leisure Centre to new premises in the New Year.

The independent charity, which receives no government funding, hopes the extra space and facilities at Badminton Court, by the railway station, will mean it can help an additional 1,900 people each year, increasing the face-to-face advice sessions it can provide.

But it needs the help of the public to raise the £30,000 needed to make changes to

the building to make it ready for supporting clients.

Krystal was set a target of raising £200 from her run but has beaten the target already, having raised £235 as the Voice went to press.

Krystal, aged 35, who works as a sales adviser, completed the run in 2 hours 20 minutes and said it was an "amazing experience".

She said: "There were spectators cheering you on throughout the whole route, which was so supportive and kept you going.

"The energy was fantastic with many people offering sweets and even Super Mario power up signs to high-five, which were great fun to keep spirits running high.

"It was lovely to see others come together to support many meaningful charities, especially the fire fighters in full gear and even a hockey player in a goalie kit. That's got to be hard.

"I'd like to thank Katie from Citizens Advice South Gloucestershire for coming to cheer. Also a special thanks to my partner William and my sons Cooper and Malachy, supporting me throughout all of my training and being there for me on the day."

Krystal Jarvis with her finisher's medal Krystal thanked everyone who donated to the charity's appeal on her behalf.

She said: "You never know who is discretely seeking help - it could be yourself, someone in your family or your best friend."

Krystal's fundraising page is still open for donations at www.justgiving.com/ fundraising/krystal-j.

People can get help from Citizens Advice South Gloucestershire by calling 0808 278 7947 or visiting www.southgloscab.org.uk.

Oaktree

Lark Rise, Yate, Bristol, BS37 7PJ

Oaktree is a warm and welcoming home where our entire team work hard to treat residents like family. We provide high quality nursing, dementia residential and respite care to our well-loved residents.

We currently have vacancies for permanent and respite stays. Call us today to book a viewing and to meet our team.

Call us on 01454 324141 or visit healthcarehomes.co.uk Committed, compassionate, caring For Newsdesk Or Advertising contact 01454 800 120

Email: contact@yateandsodburyvoice.co.uk

20

yate&sodburyvoice

November, 2023

n WHAT'S ON n November 9-11 SODBURY VALE MUSICAL COMEDY CLUB performs Hear the People Sing, a Cameron Mackintosh revue, at Chipping Sodbury Town Hall.

Evening shows Thursday, Friday and Saturday 7.30pm; Saturday matinee 2.30pm. Tickets from www.ticketsource.co.uk/svmcc. n November 16 ARTS APPRECIATION GROUP at Bradley Stoke Community School, 7pm. Illustrated talk by Richard Box: Flora - the Language of Flowers.

More details from Sally on 07946 508316. n November 13 BRISTOL BUDGERIGAR SOCIETY meeting, Little Stoke Baptist Church, Kingsway, Little Stoke, 7.30pm.

Popular Welsh breeders and exhibitors Jeff Burns, Gareth Morgan and Ian Weeks will answer questions.

Visitors welcome. More details from Ron Ramplin at ronnie.ramplin@ btinternet.com or 07748 740794. n November 14 GREAT WESTERN SOCIETY BRISTOL GROUP meeting, BAWA, Southmead Road, Bristol, 7.30pm. Talk by Andy Chapman: ‘Sentinel 7109 Joyce - Her Restoration and Siblings’. Meeting open to all. Suggested donation of £3 to cover expenses. More details from Dave Winter, 01454 324230. n November 14 SODBURY AND DISTRICT FLOWER ARRANGEMENT SOCIETY practice class, Old Grammar School Rooms, Chipping Sodbury, 7.30pm. Theme: Bonfire Night. Also open Christmas demonstration by national demonstrator Lucy Ellis at Chipping Sodbury Town Hall on November 28, 7.30pm, tickets £12. More information from 0117 937 3836 or rosemary.cummins2@gmail.com. n November 25 CITY OF BATH MALE CHOIR AND YATE & CHIPPING SODBURY GOOD AFTERNOON CHOIR perform at St John the Baptist Church, Chipping Sodbury, 7.30pm. Tickets available online, £10 from gac. ticketlight.co.uk. Rare opportunity to hear one of the UK’s best-loved male choirs in Sodbury. n December 1 CHRISTMAS COFFEE MORNING with craft stalls, Old Sodbury Village Hall, 10.30am-1pm. Raising funds for the village hall. n December 5 CHIPPING SODBURY MUSIC SOCIETY Start the Christmas season with the gorgeous, dulcet tones of the superb Bath Camerata. Chipping Sodbury Town Hall Tuesday 5th December at 7.30pm. £18, Tickets on the door, School aged children free n December 8 CHRISTMAS CAROLS IN THE PARK, Kingsgate Park, Yate, 6-7pm,

meet outside compound by car park entrance. Free mulled wine, mince pies, squash and treats for children.

Led by Hywel Snook of Yate parish and Leigh Maydew of Yate Methodist Church. n December 12 YATE CHORAL SOCIETY CONCERT, Carols & Songs for Christmas, Chipping Sodbury Town Hall, 7.30pm.

Conductor Carol Cook, accompanist Diana Williams. Tickets £10 from Chipping Sodbury Tourist Information Centre, from 01454 313907.

More details at www.yatechoralsociety.co.uk.

REGULAR EVENTS: Monday n YATE & SODBURY ART & CRAFT CLUB meets every Monday, 7-9 pm at Ridgewood Community Centre.

Painting, drawing, collage and many other crafts in a friendly informal setting. £5 per session. More information at yateandsodburyartsociety. weebly.com or call Roz on 07941 946412. n GENTLE YOGA-IN WITH NAZAMA Weekly yoga class 9.30am. Easy to follow gentle yoga, ideal for back pain relief and joint issues. A slower-paced, mindful and lighter yoga in Chipping Sodbury with experienced teacher. Beginners Welcomed.

Sodbury Masonic Hall, 1 Hatters Lane, Chipping Sodbury. From £6.00. Book online www.yoga-in. co.uk or call 07804598353

n FLOW-IN YOGA WITH NAZAMA Weekly yoga classes 6.15pm & 7.45pm in Chipping Sodbury. Become more flexible, worry less and sleep better with an easy to follow flowing yoga.

Book online www.yoga-in.co.uk or call 07804598353 Tuesday n YATE POETRY GROUP meets every Tuesday morning. Small, informal and friendly group to share and enjoy poems. For details and to learn more about the venue, contact Tony on 0770 4140682 or email yatepoetrygroup@gmail.com. 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. To find out more contact croquet@wilko.eclipse.co.uk or call 07977 201440. n SOUTH COTSWOLD PROBUS GROUP meet every 2nd Tuesday of

For Newsdesk Or Advertising contact 01454 800 120

the month at Masonic Hall Sodbury, 10am. Contact Pete Chaplin for details. 01454 324956. n YATE & SODBURY ART & CRAFT CLUB (POTTERY SECTION) meets every Tuesday and Wednesday, 7.309.30 pm at Ridgewood Community Centre. Tuition available. £5 per session. More information at yateandsodburyartsociety.weebly.com or call Roz on 07941 946412. n YATE CHORAL SOCIETY rehearses at St. Nicholas' Church Centre, Chargrove, Yate, 7.30 - 9.30 p.m. For details call 07833 597114 n PUCKLECHURCH FOLK DANCING CLUB, Pucklechurch Community Hall, Abson Road, every other Tuesday from 7.30-10.15pm.

All welcome, with a partner or solo.

Call Alan on 07812 508396 or Linda on 07843 240414 f.

Wednesday n CRAFT MORNING, St Mary's Church, Yate, 10am-midday. Bring a project, get help learning something new or just come to sit and chat, enjoy a cup of tea or coffee and a biscuit. Small donation requested to support church heating. n LINE DANCE CLASSES AT RIDGEWOOD COMMUNITY CENTRE, Wednesdays 9.30am to 12. Cost £5 No partner needed. A fun way to keep fit, reduce stress, improve memory and make new life long friends.

Contact Gill 07837 784816, or FB gill.butler.90

n GENTLE YOGA-IN WITH NAZAMA Weekly yoga class 9.30am (term time). Easy to follow gentle yoga, ideal for back pain relief and joint issues. Book online www.yoga-in.co.uk or call 07804598353

n BRISTOL SCRABBLE CLUB meets every Wednesday evening at 7pm until 10pm at Filton Community Centre, Elm Park, Filton BS34 7PS. New members welcome- first visit free so come along and give us a try.

For further information contact Tania by email at tanialake@yahoo.co.uk n YATE AND CHIPPING SODBURY GOOD AFTERNOON CHOIR, St Mary’s Church, every Wednesday from 2-4pm. New members welcome, especially men, to thriving community choir, with no auditions. First rehearsal free. For more information phone Jody on 01761 472468.

Thursday n GOLDEN OLDIES SING & SMILE SESSIONS, Cambrian Green Court, Wellington Road, every third Thursday from 10.30-11.30am. Sing along to hits of the 50s onwards, chat and laugh with friends. £3 donation to attend. Call 01761 470006 for more details. n COELIAC UK LOCAL CAFÉ MEET UP occurs 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 further info contact volunteering@coeliac.org.uk. n YOGA-IN WITH NAZAMA Weekly Flow-in Yoga 6.15pm & Calm-in Yoga 7.45pm in Chipping Sodbury. Become more flexible, worry less and sleep better with an easy to follow yoga.

Beginners Welcomed. Chipping Sodbury Sports Centre. From £6.00. Book online www.yoga-in. co.uk or call 07804598353 Sunday n TEAS ON SUNDAY at Old Sodbury Church, 2.30-4.30pm, every Sunday and bank holiday Monday until August.

Greenway Gardens

Tree & Garden Maintenance Services Fully Qualified & Insured, 10 years experience All aspects of Tree & Hedge work/Landscaping Contract Lawn Mowing from £10 60+ 5 Star Customer Ratings Address: 90 Chedworth, Yate

Email: Greenwaygardens@hotmail.co.uk Contact: Sam Salvage 07710 608 211 Email: contact@yateandsodburyvoice.co.uk

It’s good to talk…

It was hard but I’m so glad we had that conversation.

Together we planned a proper send off for mum, a whole morning to celebrate her life with the music and poetry she loved. In a peaceful natural setting where our family and friends had plenty of time and space to share stories and memories.

Maria, Bristol

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 internment. Complete burial service from £1,495.

Visit www.memorialwoodlands.com or call 01454 414999

We do it your way

yate&sodburyvoice

22

November, 2023

n RECIPE OF THE MONTH

A quick and easy curry lunch

LAST weekend I went to a curry cookery class with my son, as we both enjoy making Indian food.

I learnt a lot of very good tips, as well as trying some new authentic recipes.

Our teacher stressed the importance of tasting and adjusting if necessary, then tasting again.

He had deliberately chosen ingredients that are readily available in most large supermarkets, and he encouraged us to think of curry spices as something that can be used in all sorts of dishes other than curries.

I’ve just added a shake of turmeric to a butternut squash soup that really lifted it.

Likewise, a couple of pinches of curry powder added to a lasagna or spag bol can make an interesting, if subtle, change.

There is a belief among some people that Indian cooking is complicated, time-consuming and very difficult.

Ann Murray founded the Cooking4 Cookery School based in Chipping Sodbury.

She’s teamed up with Yate & Sodbury Voice to pass on her wealth of experience in the kitchen.

authentic Indian family recipes, I can recommend a jewel of a book given to me by an Indian friend.

It’s called 'An Indian Housewife’s Recipe Book' by Laxmi Khurana. At £3.99, it’s a steal!

• Chaat masala spice to sprinkle over the finished dish

Chickpea and potato chaat

Lasting Powers of Attorney only £75 + VAT each

• Jaggery – Indian cane sugar (alternatively normal granular brown sugar) – try a couple of teaspoons and then taste

Note: the trick with Indian food is to prep all the elements before starting to cook. Follow this order and all will be well!

First make the tamarind and mint sauce and the chutney. You need to combine all the ingredients for each one, either by hand or in a small electric chopper, if you have one. Put to one side.

Then chop the potatoes into small cubes and boil for 5-6 minutes until just soft. Drain using a sieve and rinse under the cold water tap, to stop them cooking any more.

Put back into the saucepan you cooked them in. Cover with a clean tea towel, put the lid on to keep them warm.

Make the salad.

Add 3 tablespoons of water to the chickpeas and heat in the microwave on high for 2-3 mins

A Single or Joint Will only £75 + VAT

Lime and Chilli Chutney:

To serve:

You can make fresh but I like to use Geeta’s brand – 2 tbsps to which I have added a small bunch of finely chopped coriander, including stalks and a squeeze of fresh lime to taste.

• Share the chickpeas and the potatoes between 2 bowls

For the rest of the dish:

• Top with the chutney, then the onion and cucumber rings.

I hope to show that it can be quick and easy and, in these costcutting days, economical.

This chickpea chaat (chaat means a snack) recipe is all of the above.

It can also be very versatile. For a more substantial dish you can add cooked leftover meats or cooked prawns.

If this has inspired you try more

Serves 2 Ingredients For the tamarind and mint sauce: • Tamarind paste - 2 tsps (M&S do a good one, or available in the Indian section of big supermarkets) • Green chillis – 2, finely chopped • Mint leaves – 12, finely chopped, or 1 tsp mint sauce • Cumin powder – ¼ tsp

01454 32 26 66

Probate Services from only £250 + VAT Single Will and Power of Attorney package only £125 + VAT Protect your Home against Nursing Home and Care Fees from only £250 + VAT • Over 55’s only • Home and Office appointments with Disabled Access Call now, quoting “Yate & Sodbury Voice” Lindsey House, Oaklands Business Park Armstrong Way, Yate, Bristol BS37 5NA

For Newsdesk Or Advertising contact 01454 800 120

• 400g chickpeas – drained and rinsed • Potatoes, red skinned for preference – scrubbed, not peeled 200400g depending on how much you like potatoes • Cucumber and onion rings • Fresh tomatoes – 4 or 5, chopped into small pieces

• Fresh coriander as a garnish Here’s what you do

• Spoon the tamarind sauce over the chickpea and potato mixture.

• Lastly add the chopped tomatoes and sprinkle with chaat masala spice.

• Garnish with a few fresh coriander leaves • Also nice with leftover meat from Sunday roast – I added some lamb.

Email: contact@yateandsodburyvoice.co.uk

November, 2023

yate&sodburyvoice

23

n ARTS

Club promises a night of musical favourites

filled with music from shows old and new, Hear the People Sing will take you on a journey from Phantom of the Opera to Cats and Les Mis, to Kinky Boots and Dear Evan Hansen.

"There is something for everyone. Come and join us for a feast of Cameron Mackintosh’s greatest musical memories, dotted with all the faces you know and love from the local area."

The club has been running for 55 years and has a thriving membership: there will be 38 performers on stage for the show, which runs from November 9 to 11.

Evening shows, on Thursday, Friday and Saturday, start at 7.30pm, while the Saturday matinee starts at 2.30pm.

Tickets are available from Ticket Source - the booking page is at www. ticketsource.co.uk/svmcc.

Male voice choir visits

Members of Sodbury Vale Musical Comedy Club SODBURY Vale Musical Comedy Club is promising a night of musical favourites from shows old and new at its latest production.

The club's Cameron Mackintosh revue, called Hear the People Sing, is being staged at Chipping Sodbury Town Hall over three nights in November, with a Saturday matinee too.

A spokesperson for the group said: "If you're looking for an evening out,

A CHOIR which received world-wide acclaim after reaching the final stages of the BBC’s Last Choir Standing series will perform in Chipping Sodbury in November.

The City of Bath Male Choir, which has toured Europe, Japan and the USA since appearing on the TV series, will sing in support of the Great Western Air Ambulance Charity at St John the Baptist Church on November 25.

The charity is the choice of Yate & Chipping Sodbury Good Afternoon Choir, who started singing together six years ago and led by Sian Walters.

Sian said: "Our Yate & Chipping Sodbury Good Afternoon Choir meet every Wednesday from 2pm-4pm at St Mary’s Church in Yate and we always welcome new members. There are no auditions, great music and we are really looking forward to it.

The Chipping Sodbury concert will take place at 7.30pm, with tickets available online from gac.ticketlight.co.uk.

Loft Boarding & Insulation

www.useyourloftspace.co.uk USE YOUR LOFT SPACE is the reliable, affordable and trusted local company for all your loft boarding, and loft insulation requirements

0117 2980810 INFO@USEYOURLOFTSPACE.CO.UK For Newsdesk Or Advertising contact 01454 800 120

Email: contact@yateandsodburyvoice.co.uk

24

yate&sodburyvoice

November, 2023

n COMMUNITY NEWS

Yate-Genieri Community Link WE are making an urgent appeal to protect the children of The Gambia, where malaria is now rife.

The land is low-lying, flat and wet on either side of the Gambia River, making it a perfect breeding ground for mosquitoes.

Malaria is very serious at this time of year in rural areas.

The Yate-Genieri Community Link has, for more than 20 years, supported a village in rural Gambia where many of the inhabitants - more than usual have fallen sick with malaria this A child with a malaria net year.

We have done our best to provide medicine (Coartem) and malaria tests from the small primary healthcare centre which we support in the village but clearly, as always, prevention is better than cure, and the last supply of mosquito nets has mostly worn out.

The country's government has this season only managed to supply mosquito nets for newborn babies and pregnant mothers, so overall we urgently want to provide 280 nets for children and a further 500 for adults.

Just £2.50 will buy a net for a child. Go to www.yategenierilink.org.uk to donate.

Please help us to help them!

New members are most welcome and we should be able to lend you a recorder and music stand while you decide if you want to join.

We meet every other Friday morning, 10am-noon, at the YMCA Hall in Yate.

Annual membership is just £8 a year.

You can visit any one of our groups or attend our monthly speaker meeting twice to experience the u3a for yourself before joining as a member.

For more exciting u3a groups, visit our website at u3asites.org.uk/yatesodbury/welcome.

Pauline Mullholland

Yate WI

IN October we held our AGM and our committee are organising the speakers and activities for the next year.

In November we are making some Christmas gnome baubles, guided by a member of the committee.

Yate WI meets on the second Monday of the month at 7pm for 7.30pm start, at Poole Court in Yate.

Our committee works hard to ensure that we have a variety of activities, from speakers to quizzes, games and demonstrations.

We always enjoy a hot drink, biscuits and chit-chat.

We meet in a small cosy room which means no-one is left out: making friends is our aim.

We also meet in smaller groups for Craft, Coffee mornings, supper club and, when the weather improves, for local walks.

If you would like to join us, you will be assured of a warm welcome. For more information email us at yatewiavon@gmail.com, or just come along to our next meeting at Poole Court.

Marian J Gilpin

Sharon Bower

Shopmobility South Gloucestershire SHOPMOBILITY South Gloucestershire, based in Yate Shopping Centre, is looking for more volunteers to help operate and promote the service.

There are opportunities to help the organisation to deliver the service, especially if it is able to expand its operations, and there are opportunities to deliver its promotion strategy to help the service reach and help more users.

If you are interested in volunteering for Shopmobility please contact the scheme on 07999 574474 or email shopmobilitysouthglos@yahoo.com.

Shopmobility is based in Yate Library and provides mobility scooter and wheelchair hire on a daily and a longer-term basis to help people who have limited mobility to retain their independence, to use the facilities of the centre and access other services.

People who need a wheelchair or scooter, even just for a short period to take on holiday, go shopping, visit friends or go on a trip, are welcome.

The service helps users from all over South Gloucestershire and beyond, and celebrated its 20th anniversary earlier this year.

Its opening hours are Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays, from 9.30 am to 4pm.

The scheme has announced its arrangements for the Christmas period.

It will be closed over Christmas week, from December 23 until January 1, reopening on January 2.

David Bell

Yate & Sodbury District u3a

solving your legal problems ...locally For You:

Accident and Injury | Cohabitation | Conveyancing Court of Protection | Crime | Disputes Employee Relocation | Employment Family Law and Divorce | Medical Negligence New Homes | Notary Public | Probate Probate Disputes | Wills and Mental Capacity

For Your Business:

Business Disputes | Business Employment Business Relocation | Commercial Property Commercial Services | Crime | Debt Recovery New Homes Developers | Notary Public

OUR Recorders Group has a fabulous new venue, around 15 regular members (including a number of beginners who are learning fast), and a varied playlist of pieces, in terms of both style and difficulty.

But most importantly, we have fun!

Wrong notes don’t matter - we chat, we laugh, and we enjoy playing music together.

If all this sounds appealing, why not come along and try us out?

Get in touch: 01454 316789 19 West Walk, Yate Shopping Centre, BS37 4AX

For Newsdesk Or Advertising contact 01454 800 120

Offices in: Central Bristol | Henleaze | Staple Hill | Bradley Stoke | Yate Email: contact@yateandsodburyvoice.co.uk Keynsham | Nailsea | Portishead | Clevedon | Weston-super-Mare | Worle

wards.uk.com

yate&sodburyvoice

November, 2023

25

n MESSAGE FROM AVON & SOMERSET PCC

Together we can reduce hate crime I WANT to start by acknowledging the terrible crisis and conflict situation in the Middle East.

I strongly condemn any acts of terrorism.

I recognise that there will be communities in Avon and Somerset who feel concerned and have been impacted by these events.

I want to reassure you that the Chief Constable is ensuring that Avon & Somerset Police is actively engaging with all communities affected, and other agencies, to monitor the situation.

Every month I hold a performance and accountability board meeting, to hold the Chief Constable of Avon & Somerset Police to account in delivering policing that is efficient, effective and legitimate, by scrutinising and asking questions about police performance and priorities.

October’s topics were hate crime, anti-social behaviour and PEEL disclosure schemes.

Hate crime and ASB is unacceptable any time of year, but National Hate Crime Week, which took place between October 14 and 21, provided an opportunity to reinforce that Avon and Somerset is no place for hate.

Reducing and preventing these crimes, which is priority one of four in my Police and Crime Plan, requires us to all work together, encourage reporting and ensure any victims receive support.

Together we can reduce hate crime.

Chief Constable Sarah Crew assured me that Avon and Somerset Police will be doing ongoing engagement with schools, communities and retailers to encourage and support the reporting of hate crime.

If you are a victim or see hate crime or ASB take place, I would urge you to report it online or via 101.

I also questioned the Chief

ST. ALDAMS FARM NURSERY

Constable about the latest PEEL report. PEEL stands for Police Effectiveness, Efficiency and Legitimacy, and is the primary framework in which police forces are inspected.

The most recent report found that an area identified for improvement is the need to reduce the backlog of applications waiting to be processed relating to domestic violence disclosure schemes.

The two schemes are fantastic police policies, which enable you to find out about an individual’s domestic abuse history (if they have one) or if someone has a record for child sex offences.

If you missed the meeting and want to see what happened, you can watch the recording via the Avon and Somerset Police and Crime Commissioner Facebook page.

I want to take the opportunity to talk specifically about road safety, which is a key area of focus.

If you are a road user, pedestrian

With police and crime commissioner

Mark Shelford

or cyclist or e-scooter rider, I urge you to be careful when using pathways and pavements. It is important to remember that pavements are solely for the use of pedestrians.

If you do need to use the pavement to park, please do so with care, especially as the evenings become darker. This ensures accessibility and safety for all road users and pedestrians in Avon and Somerset.

BUY DIRECT FROM THE GROWER

EST. 1973

THE BEST PLANTS AT THE BEST PRICES

Available now at St Aldams PANSIES TRAY OF

PRIMROSES & POLYANTHUS

VIOLAS TRAY OF 25 PANSY BASKETS SHRUBS from ONLY £7.00 EACH PLANTS £7.00 25 PLANTS £7.00 TRAY OF 15 PLANTS £6.00 £8.95

OPEN

Mon-F 7 DAYS ri 9A sun 9A M-5PM M-4PM

ERIN MULTIPURPOSE COMPOST Top Quality £7 each or 3 for £18

WESTERLEIGH ROAD, PUCKLECHURCH, BRISTOL BS16 9PY SEE OUR SITE FOR SPECIAL OFFERS staldamsnursery.co.uk

For Newsdesk Or Advertising contact 01454 800 120

Email: contact@yateandsodburyvoice.co.uk

yate&sodburyvoice

26

November, 2023

n COMMUNITY NEWS

Chipping Sodbury Morning Chipping WI Sodbury Inner Wheel

If you would like to find out more, please call 07809 534 107.

OUR September meeting was a very enjoyable beetle drive - if you have a speaker that cancels at short notice, this is an activity you can easily drop in to fill a gap.

Like most organisations, each year we must hold an annual general meeting, which holds us accountable to the great Women's Institute organisation and our lovely members.

With great efficiency we dotted the 'Is' and crossed the 'Ts', with plenty of time to head across the road to The Royal Oak for a delicious lunch and, for some, a celebratory tipple.

The staff were wonderful as usual, doing all they could to make the event enjoyable - but the portion sizes did beat a couple of our ladies!

For our November meeting, on the 21st, we have a speaker to enlighten us all about magic lanterns.

We meet on the third Tuesday of the month at 10am in the Masonic Hall, Hatters Lane, Chipping Sodbury. The building is fully accessible with plenty of parking.

Meetings last for two hours, with a tea break, giving members the chance to chat to friends and get to know new ladies. Why not come along and meet us?

President Liz presents new member Lynne with her badge MEMBERS were very interested to hear about the Happy Handbag scheme, started by Jeanne Long, at our October meeting.

We were fascinated to hear the story of her realisation of how important handbags

WARM WELCOME Yate Town Council is pleased to announce the second year of Warm Welcome. This initiative was designed to offer warm and welcoming places for people to drop-in and use throughout the colder months.

Completely free of charge, the service aims to support those in the community who are adversely impacted by the cost-of-living increases, in particular, rising energy costs.

Warm Welcome has been made possible through generous donations and funding from the Town Council’s Yate Ageing Better Health and Wellbeing Initiative and community partnerships with organisations such as The Oasis at Chipping Sodbury Baptist Church and Yate Library.

YATE HERITAGE CENTRE VISION

Sue Bird

WHERE

WHEN

Armadillo Youth Café

Monday 10am-12noon Thursday 9am-3pm (senior cinema) Saturday 10am-1pm (community cinema)

Poole Court

Mondays and Thursdays 1pm-5pm Fridays 9am-4pm

Pop Inn Café (over 50's)

Monday - Thursday 10am-2.30pm Friday 10am-1.30pm* *12noon every 1st Friday of month

The Candle

Wednesday 1pm-3pm

Yate Library

Monday / Tuesday / Thursday / Friday 10am-5.30pm Saturday 9am-2pm

The Oasis at Chipping Sodbury Baptist Church Yate Heritage Centre

More than 20 years into our own history, Yate Heritage Centre is creating an exciting new “Vision” for our future!

Located in the heart of Yate, Yate Heritage Centre is a unique facility that creates history through exciting heritage, arts and culture events. It also houses exhibitions, object collections, hosts lectures, workshops, and documents life in Yate, captured in everyday memories, photography, film and everything in-between!

Chair of Yate Heritage Centre’s Management Committee Councillor Alan Monaghan says “The Heritage Centre Vision initiative is a great opportunity for our residents to share any ideas or desires relating to how they feel the Heritage Centre can continue to develop and serve the needs of our town and district.”

For Newsdesk Or Advertising contact 01454 800 120

(and their associated contents) are to women, particularly those going through a rough patch.

She found a way to donate them to women in crisis situations, providing comfort and hope.

Many members brought toiletries and bags along to the meeting and Inner Wheel also made a cash donation to this worthwhile scheme.

The business part of the meeting started with the induction of two new members - Diane and Lynne - by President Liz. At a time when many clubs of all kinds are finding it hard to maintain their membership, we are delighted to have welcomed five new members already this year, and are always pleased to see new faces at our meetings Members have been active in the community, at the regular monthly litter pick, supporting the fortnightly memory cafe and listening to children read at a local primary school. The reading volunteers are all enjoying their sessions so far and have been very pleased to get the chance to be involved in other school activities, such as a trip to Westonbirt Arboretum.

The friendship and fellowship that is so important to Inner Wheel will be in evidence when eight of our members attend the Interclub event organised by the Cirencester club. We all enjoy these opportunities to meet members from across our district and are planning our own in early December.

Liz Pattison

Monday - Friday 10am-2pm

Tuesday / Wednesday / Thursday 10am -4pm Saturday 10am-3pm

We need YOU to help us create a new “Vision”, by telling us what you want to see inside Yate Heritage Centre by completing our short survey, that can be found at: www.yatetowncouncil.gov.uk/heritage-centre.

We want to know - what events and exhibitions do you want to visit? How could you help us as a volunteer? What do you want to learn at lectures and workshops? And most importantly… how do we reach everyone in our community, by celebrating and representing the inspiring and diverse culture we live in today?

A “Vision Workshop” is being planned to take place in November. The workshop will be an opportunity to meet our team and other local groups and to share ideas for how we engage and inspire our current and future communities. Check out our socials for more information.

Email: contact@yateandsodburyvoice.co.uk

yate&sodburyvoice

November, 2023

27

n COMMUNITY NEWS

Chipping Sodbury Rotary Club

Zena Jones and Lynn Cross from the Alzheimer’s Society receive a donation from Rotary's Stuart Fraser and Steve Young.

OUR new season of tea dances gets underway with two in November at Chipping Sodbury Town Hall.

The first is on November 2, with further events are already planned for November 21 and December 12, all at 2-4pm.

Everyone is welcome to come along for a dance and to enjoy the company and the music.

Green Community Travel provide a very

popular local travel service, particularly to individuals and groups unable to use public transport. They need a new storage facility, and the club was delighted to secure a District Grant which the club was able to match fund to help significantly with the overall cost involved.

The club was also pleased to fund a recent outing to Saul Junction for some 25 attendees of the fortnightly Oasis Memory Café meetings to enjoy a trip on one of the Willow Trust canal boats. A great day was had by all.

Once again in October several club members joined other volunteers to support the litter picking activities of the Sodbury and Yate Clean Up Group.

Sadly, there never seems to be a shortage of litter and other items, irresponsibly dumped.

The next monthly event will be on November 5, meeting in the public car park adjacent to Waitrose in Chipping Sodbury.

Our speakers in October were Zane Jones and Lynn Cross, from the local branch of the Alzheimer’s Society, who spoke passionately about the charity’s efforts to help support those who live with the awful disease of dementia, and their loved ones. The club donated £800 to the charity from funds generously donated by attendees at the last season of tea dances.

Finally, on the social front, our Thunderboules team reached the final stages of the annual District Rotary Boules competition,

beating Clifton Rotary Club in the semi-final, only to lose to the Gloucester Severn Rotary Club in the final.

Stuart Fraser

Chipping Sodbury WI HANDS up who, like me, thought that you can eat all mushrooms but anything called a toadstool is poisonous?

In fact there is no clear distinction between toadstools and mushrooms, as they are all fungi.

Our talk, given by Joe McSorley, provided some amazing facts and figures and how fungus is formed, even to the fact that no more coal is being made, due to fungi.

This again was one of those talks that you think could have been a bit boring but turned out to be completely the opposite.

This is why I enjoy WI meetings so much they open a whole new world of education.

The next meeting at Chipping Sodbury Town Hall is on November 2 at 7.30pm, and is our AGM. Jeanette Oakley

WINDOWS, FASCIAS, CONSERVATORIES AND ROOFS SPECI IAN AND D GUAR ROOFS S GLAS

AZED LE GL DOUBINDOWS S W OOR AND D PORARY

PVCu S ACEM OLID ENT F A SOIL STACK SCIAS S& CLAD D IN G GUTT ERIN SOFF G & ITS

REPL

ORIES ERVAT G IN S N O C N ALISI OSITE COMPORS DO Y OF T VARIE RS U COLO NS IG & DES

L EM CONT ADITIONA OR TR

R

WE S OOFING

ALL T PECIALIS YP E INCLU ES OF ROO IN DING FING P IT LONG LIFE R CHED & UB FLAT ROOF BER ING

sales@southernplasticlad.co.uk

www.southernplasticlad.co.uk SHOWROOM OPEN MON - FRI 9am - 5pm SAT 9am - 1pm FREEPHONE 0800 542 6066 Unit 4 Ram Hill Business Park, Ram Hill, Coalpit Heath BS36 2TZ TELEPHONE 01454 777 732 For Newsdesk Or Advertising contact 01454 800 120

Email: contact@yateandsodburyvoice.co.uk

28

yate&sodburyvoice

n SPORT

November, 2023

Yate pair win gold

TWO gymnasts based at Yate's King Edmund Acro Club triumphed at this year's European Championships in Acrobatic Gymnastics.

Esmè Mathias and Natalia Gilbert represented Great Britain at the event in October, holding off challenges from Spain and France to win the Junior Women's Pairs title in Varna, Bulgaria.

Club manager Mark Thorne said: "The girls and Esmè Mathias and Natalia Gilbert the coaching team did an receiving their final score amazing job.

"After a very good opening balance routine, scoring a very high 27:530 which gave a great platform to grow on, next up was their dynamic routine, with another good score 26:470 which claimed their spot in the all-important overall final.

"The pressure was on as the draw put them last out, so they knew what other scores were coming in and also could see some had made mistakes.

"All they had to do was complete their last routine clean, which sounds so easy but when a European Gold medal is on the line, it’s very easy to lose concentration.

"With such a wonderful build up to this competition, where they worked tirelessly with the coaching team making sure they were not just physically fit, but also mentally fit and ready for any challenge, they held it together and produced a clean routine which claimed the main prize."

n YATE LIBRARY NEWS

YATE Library is hosting two family theatre shows in November.

Star Seekers takes place on Saturday November 18 and Snow Mouse from November 28-December 2.

A murder mystery takes place on November 25 at 3pm, when the Red Herrings present The Return of the Lost Lamb.

Tickets cost £4, including refreshments Two coffee & cake with authors events are being held, with Amanda Prowse on November 4 at 3pm and Rebecca Tope on November 11, both starting at 3pm. Tickets cost £5 for each event.

All tickets are available online at Sglibraries.eventbrite.com.

Lego Club, with stories, poems and model making, takes place on November 11 from 10.30-11.30am. It is most suitable for children aged four to 10, who must be accompanied by an adult. Booking is required.

Regular events include Wriggle & Rhyme for parents and babies on Thursday and Friday, 9.30-10am, family-friendly story time, with crafts for preschool children, on Tuesdays from 9.30-10am, and Stay & play Duplo and trains for pre-school children every Tuesday and Friday during term time, from 10.30-11.30am.

Reading group ‘Have You Read’ for like-minded book lovers takes place every fourth Friday, from 10.30-11.30am.

Craft Group meets on November 11 & 18, from 10am-noon, for tips on knitting, sewing or crochet.

Computer support with digital champion volunteers is on Saturdays & Tuesdays from 10am-noon.

Vision West of England information, advice and support drop-in takes place every second Thursday, 10am-noon.

Legal advice from Wards solicitors, 10am-noon, November 2.

For more information on any event call 01454 868006, enquire at the library, email yate.library@southglos.gov.uk or visit www.southglos.gov. uk/libraries.

The library is open Monday, Tuesday and Friday from 10am-5.30pm, Thursday from 10am-5pm and Saturday from 9am-2pm.

Open access (unstaffed) is from 8am-7.30pm every day.

For Newsdesk Or Advertising contact 01454 800 120

Email: contact@yateandsodburyvoice.co.uk

yate&sodburyvoice

November, 2023

n SPORT

29

Yate Ladies make rugby debut YATE Rugby Ladies have played their first ever league game, two years after the side was set up.

The team was founded in late 2021, starting as a women-only touch rugby weekly session.

Over time, with coaching and development the team grew in confidence and ability.

This development over the past season culminated in the women playing friendly contact matches.

At the end of last season the decision was made to enter the team into the Inner Warrior league for their first competitive season.

The opening fixture on October 8 was Yate Rugby Ladies' first ever competitive fixture.

It resulted in a great performance and a 41-22 win against Westbury Ladies.

The team's next fixture is at

The Yate Ladies Rugby squad Yate Outdoor Sports Complex on November 5, against Andover Ladies.

A huge thanks needs to go to all the players, coaches Mark Jones, Jordan Hawker, Johnny Graham and the ladies' lead Claire Wilson, and all the other volunteers who help at training and on a match day, for their commitment and dedication to the team.

If you are interested in joining

Protect your family's inheritance Meet with one of our qualified estate planning consultants to discuss your needs.

Single & joint Wills from

£99.00 *Including VAT

Home visits or online appointments are available.

Call us today on 0117 952 0698

the women's team at Yate Rugby, training is every Wednesday from 6.15-7.15pm at Yate Outdoor Sports Complex.

Like the minis and juniors and touch/tag at Yate Rugby there are no fees - the sessions are totally free to all who want to play.

Yate Rugby is inviting all players to come and join sessions are held four times a week at Yate Outdoor Sports Complex.

On Mondays there is free mixed touch/tag rugby from 7-8pm.

Wednesdays see two parallel sessions from 7-8pm: Ladies training and under 12s to U14s skills sessions. Both are free.

Men's training takes place on Thursdays from 7-8pm.

On Sundays there is free minis and youth training, for girls and boys aged between two and 14.

Stewart Stacey

A WORLD OF

Quality

A WORLD OF

Choice

A WORLD OF

Value

Discover a range of

Carpets • Vinyls Laminates • Karndean Commercial solutions

or email info@elm-online.co.uk

Open: Mon-Fri 9 - 5.30pm | Sat 9 - 5pm | Sun 10 - 4pm www.elm-online.co.uk

For Newsdesk Or Advertising contact 01454 800 120

The Old Coachworks, Bath Road, Longwell Green, Bristol BS30 6DL Tel: 0117 947 7721 | www.thecarpetbarn.co.uk Email: contact@yateandsodburyvoice.co.uk

yate&sodburyvoice

30

n SPORT

November, 2023

Biggest crowd of season sees big Yate win YATE Town's season has taken a turn for the better, with two big wins and new loan signings arriving.

An excellent point at Bishops Cleeve saw Joe O'Laughlin and Sam Pashen score in a 2-2 draw.

The Bluebells did suffer a bit of a setback, following a narrow 2-1 defeat at home to high flying Mousehole, when Will Sage scored Yate's goal, and a 4-0 defeat at Bemerton.

Darren Mullings, who has now been confirmed as permanent manager following his caretaker appointment in September, brought in loan signings Callum Hutton from Bristol City, Will Larvin from Bristol Rovers and Finley Bell from Forest Green Rovers, plus ex-Keynsham Town and Paulton Rovers defender Kyle Anderson.

Forward Kyle Tooze has gone on loan to Paulton until the end of the year.

There followed a resounding

Ryan Hillier scores for Yate against Exmouth Town.

Picture: Bob Chester

3-0 win at Melksham Town, with goals from Dylan Lewis, Callum Hutton and Dan Dempsey.

The next fixture was a home game against Exmouth Town, which was the club’s Pay What You Want fixture.

A crowd of 464, Yate’s biggest of the season, saw goals from

Chairman Mark Thorne hands over a donation to the Great Western Air Ambulance Charity. Picture: Aaron Norman

Joe Hall, Dylan Lewis, Brendon Oputeri and Ryan Hillier secure a 4-1 win.

At the game the club presented a cheque to their charity of the season, the Great Western Air Ambulance Charity, for £720 linked to Chairman Mark Thorne’s sponsored

CLEANING SERVICES

AERIAL SERVICES

YATE & SODBURY VOICE

LOCAL SERVICES EMAIL:

CONTACT@YATEANDSODBURYVOICE.CO.UK AERIAL SERVICES

walking marathon around the South West Interiors Stadium pitch.

There has been lots going on off the pitch: for more news from the Bluebells visit the new website at www.yatetownfc. co.uk.

Bob Chester

Est.2004

The Aerial Co.

● TV Aerials & Satellites ● Extra Points ● Repairs ● Sky Work Undertaken ● Telephone Extensions ● TV Wall Mounting ● CCTV ● Data Points & Wi-Fi Extensions ● TV/DAB/FM Multi Point Systems Call Nick on 07970 529787 Email: theaerialco@yahoo.com

 

   

GUTTER CLEANING

Mark’s Gutter Cleaning Gutter Clearing Gutter Cleaning Fascia Cleaning

Poor Reception Problems Solved

OAP Discount Digital Aerials Satellites Two Year Guarantee Additional TV Points

Humax Recorders TV Sales

Call or Book online

www.marksguttercleaning.co.uk Tel: 0117 3708528 Mob: 07543056558

www.theaerialman.co.uk | info@theaerialman.co.uk

Based in Downend, Bristol

For Newsdesk Or Advertising contact 01454 800 120

Email: contact@yateandsodburyvoice.co.uk

November, 2023 HOUSE CLEARANCE

yate&sodburyvoice

31 PROPERTY MAINTENANCE

PLUMBING

HOME & PROPERTY MAINTENANCE

Garden, Clearance House, Garden, Office Clearance House,House, Garden, OfficeOffice Clearance

House, Garden, Office Clearance - all Plus all other Plus All Your Other Waste Removal Needs too!

House, Garden, Office Clearance -- Plus other House, Garden, Office Clearance Plus all other Plus Your Other Waste Removal Needs too!

Plus All All Your Other Waste Removal Needs too!

On-average Average cheaper than a skip.

On cheaper than aa skip.

OnAverage cheaper than skip. removal On average cheaper waste removal On cheaper than aa skip wastewaste removal -Average On average cheaper than than skipa skip

07592 003 Tel: 07592 506 003003 Tel: 07592 506 Tel:Tel: 07592 506506 003

• Bathroom & Kitchen Installation • Plumbing • Wall & Floor Tiling • Interior & Exterior Painting & Decorating • Guttering & Fascias • Plastering • Patios, Paving & Timber Decking • Fencing & Walls • Total Refurbishments NO JOB TOO SMALL - CONTACT US FOR A FREE NO OBLIGATION ESTIMATE

1/4 Load 1/4 £119 1/4 Load Load £119£119 Half Half £169 Half Load Load Load £169£169 3/4 Load 3/4 £229 3/4 Load Load £229£229 Full Load Full £299 Full Load Load £299£299

tel: 07974 222656 email: williamtlc@hotmail.co.uk

www.junkmonsters.co.uk www.junkmonsters.co.uk

ADVERTISE YOUR BUSINESS

RUBBISH CLEARANCE

PLUMBING & HEATING Tel: 0117 9676268 info@arheatingservices.co.uk

ADVERTISE YOUR BUSINESS

Boiler installation, servicing and repairs

Registered upper tier waste carrier licence no CBDU225074

10 Year Warranty’s available

Contact Stuart or Sue

From as little as

£22

CALL RICHARD ON: .50 01454 800 120

+VAT

Per month

MAN WITH A VAN

RUBBISH CLEARED We load and clear rubbish/junk from houses Flats, Sheds, Attics, Gardens etc etc No job too small - we even clear single items Cheaper than a skip and we load no VAT

Mobile 07770944727 518308

ROOFING & CLADDING

anytime including weekends

TREE SERVICES

Sodbury Roofing & Cladding Systems Ltd COMMERCIAL ROOFING - DOMESTIC ROOFING - FASCIAS, SOFFITS & GUTTERING A roofing company you can trust

01454 311127 07930 344943

info@sodburyroofing. co.uk www.sodburyroofing. co.uk Find us on Yell:

TREE SERVICES

PAINTING & DECORATING

D. ATTWELL

SJM DECORATING

Patios – Decking Gravelling – Fencing Wood Chippings – Jetwashing Foliage Removed – Roots Destroyed Garden Walls & General Building

Free Quotations

LANDSCAPING & TREE SERVICES For All Garden Works

• FULLY INSURED • LICENSED WASTE CARRIER

For a FREE quote call 07960 681 921 d.attwellgardenservices@hotmail.co.uk

Professional Decorating Local Qualified tradesmen Internal & External Decorating Fast, reliable & friendly service Fully insured Call Scott 07515 523 623 0117 3824411

www.sjmdecorating.freeindex.co.uk

For Newsdesk Or Advertising contact 01454 800 120

ADVERTISE YOUR BUSINESS

ADVERTISE YOUR BUSINESS

From as little as

£22

CALL RICHARD ON: .50 01454 800 120

+VAT

Per month

Email: contact@yateandsodburyvoice.co.uk

The Heathers Nursing Home Our aim is to give a high standard of nursing and personal care in a traditional, homely and friendly environment. The Heathers is a home of great character and charm. The interior architecture, with many of its original features, gives a perfect setting for the home comforts we aim to provide.

The Heathers Nursing Home is a privately owned, Grade 2 Listed Georgian manor house, situated within walking distance of the town centres of Chipping Sodbury, and Yate.

First Class Facilities and Support • A history of providing 24 hour, high quality care in South Gloucestershire • Each resident is unique to us and treated as such • The home is small and family run, offering a highly personalised service • Exceptional standards of cleanliness and hygiene • Respite, residential care and day care available • Special diets catered for by our expert Chefs

Get in touch and speak with our team, or arrange a viewing to see our facilities for yourself.

Aneesh – Registered Manager • Julie – General Manager

Telephone 01454 312726 or Email info@heathersnursinghome.co.uk

www.3abcare.co.uk