Kenysham News Summer 2023

Produced for Keynsham Town Council

Stagecoach

Bristol Keynsham

The Wizard Of Oz

Join us as we go Over The Rainbow for the junior version of this American classic. This show is brilliant for children and young people and has some of the most famous and loved characters and numbers in the musical theatre songbook.

21 - 25 AUGUST 2023

Age:

6 - 18 year-olds

Time: Performance:

Cost:

Venue:

Mon - Fri 09:00 - 16:00

£175 (£115 sibling)

Wellsway School, BS31 1PH

Fri, 15:00

stagecoach.co.uk/bristolkeynsham 07535 662445

WELCOME TO KEYNSHAM NEWS

Hello and welcome to the Summer edition of Keynsham News. We’re all looking ahead to warmer days and are keeping our fingers crossed for sunshine during the Keynsham Music Festival (June 26th to July 2nd). For the first time, the Keynsham Music Festival will also feature the Nova Youth Arts Festival being put together by young people from Keynsham’s TimeOut Youth Club alongside the Town Council’s Youth Service. Read more about the Music Festival and Nova Youth Arts Festival in this edition – we hope to see you all there!

Interested in appearing in a future issue? Then please email Kate Ward (kate@keynsham-tc.gov.uk) at Keynsham Town Council before the deadline on 14th July.

We hope you have a lovely Summer and we will see you all soon.

TOWN CLERK’s WELCOmE

ROTARY CLUB OF KEYNsHAm

KEYNsHAm’s ENVIRONmENT

KEYNsHAm KINGs

GOOD CITIZEN AWARD

BEREAVEmENT sUppORT

Keynsham News is produced by Ignyte Media Ltd, Bathway Farm, Bathway, Chewton Mendip, Somerset, BA3 4LN Tel 01761 410141. While every care has been taken to ensure the data contained in this publication is accurate, neither the publisher nor its editorial contributors can accept, and hereby disclaim, any liability to any party for loss or damage caused by errors or omissions resulting from negligence, accident or any other cause. Ignyte or Keynsham Town Council does not officially endorse any advertising material included within this publication. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or stored in any retrieval system in any form without the prior permission of the publisher.

The next issue of Keynsham News will be distributed in September. To feature in the next issue, please get in touch by 14th July.

Cover photo taken by Mike May at Keynsham allotments.

ToWN ClERK’S WELCOME

It’s been a very busy time for Keynsham Town Council.

Despite an already busy social calendar in Keynsham, this year the Town Council thought to add one more date to the diary with the Keynsham Spring Show. Opened by the Winner of the 2021 Great British Bake Off, Giuseppe Dell’Anno. The show was a huge success with over 120 people entering the show and over 350 entries across all classes including horticulture, arts & handicrafts, cookery, and a children’s category. We saw over 1,000 people come through the doors on the day of the Spring Show and the feedback has been very positive. A big thank you to all the Keynsham Town Council staff who worked so hard to make it a fun and memorable event for the community.

We have also had the opportunity to acknowledge some of the hard-working Keynsham residents with this year’s Good Citizen Award recipients at the Annual Town Meeting. You can read more about all the recipients on page 10.

The Coronation of King Charles III called for celebration with Keynsham’s Picnic in the Park. A full bandstand line-up, compered by KTCRfm, kept Keynsham residents entertained alongside children’s races and activities, entertainers, and market stalls.

The month of May also saw the elections for Keynsham Town Council Councillors. We look forward to working closely with all those elected with plans to review our 4-year strategic plan for the Town.

Looking ahead to the Summer, we have the 26th Keynsham Music Festival to look forward to, which is sure to be a fun event. For the first time we are also launching the Nova Youth Arts Festival, developed by the young people from TimeOut with our Youth Service support, which will coincide with the Music Festival.

We hope you all have a lovely Summer.

Dawn Drury, Town Clerk

THE RoTARY Club Of kE ynshaM

We were pleased to help support Keynsham Town Council in their recent Spring Show at the Scout Headquarters - it went well as an event, and we hope it will be repeated next year.

Looking forward, we have been asked to help with an open day for the Children’s Air Ambulance (CAA) on 20th May at the Bath Racecourse. This will be a large event open to the general public with lots of entertainment on offer.

We have recently supported the CAA with a street collection in Keynsham and we will be at this event to help further promote their valuable work. Look out for the publicity or contact us through our website for more details.

We have just been granted permission to make a

Silk Road Rugs

collection at Tesco Brislington on Saturday 24th June, the proceeds of which will be earmarked to help those members of our community in Keynsham and Saltford who are finding life a struggle just now with the escalating costs of food and fuel. If you see us there, please come and have a chat.

We are pleased to welcome any member of the public who is interested in the welfare of our community to join us in our objectives. Making contact is easy through our website and we will be pleased to have a chat any time. It is pleasing to record that we have just recruited another member to our group, but we still need more members to be able to keep supporting our community.

MiLLi Ons POurEd inTO PrOTECTing KEYNSHAM’S ENVIRoNMENT

Investment totalling £17 million is coming to Keynsham later this Summer as projects to ensure the environment in and around the town continues to be protected get underway.

Wessex Water will carry out a brace of separate schemes to both reduce flooding and ensure the local sewer system continues to cope with an expanding population, starting in July of this year.

One of the projects has been designed to address long-standing issues with sewer flooding near the centre of Keynsham, with the other ensuring the processes for treating wastewater from the

town continue to meet the highest environmental standards.

A 12-week scheme starting on 24th July will see a new gravity relief sewer installed along a 170-metre stretch of the B3116 Wellsway near Keynsham Cricket Club, connecting two separate systems in a bid to reduce incidents of sewer flooding in nearby streets and homes.

The £500,000 work is being timed to ensure the majority of it coincides with the school summer holidays, keeping disruption to local people to a minimum.

Meanwhile, at the start of the same month, a two-year programme of improvements will get underway at the water recycling centre off Broadmead Lane, where £16.5 million is being invested to expand the site and allow further infrastructure to be installed.

Director of Engineering and Delivery at Wessex Water, Paul Lewis, said: “This is a significant boost to our wastewater systems in Keynsham that demonstrates both our determination to tackle specific flooding issues being faced locally and ensuring we can continue to safely treat the inevitable increase in sewage from a growing population.

“We’ve worked hard to find the best way to try and reduce the historical issues with flooding in the residential neighbourhood around Wellsway and the new relief sewer is the most effective and sensible solution to protect the environment.

“Meanwhile, the massive investment in the town’s water recycling centre will help ensure it can meet the increasing demands and deliver the added storage needed to prevent untreated water being released back into the environment.’’

The relief sewer project is scheduled to begin on Monday 24th July, following a request from the Highways team at Bath & North East Somerset Council that the bulk of the work coincides with the start of the school Summer holidays.

The B3116 (Wellsway) will be closed to through traffic for up to 12 weeks while the work is carried out, with a diversion using the A39 and A4 roads in place.

Project Manager, Alex Aulds, said: “We have met with Councils in both Keynsham and Saltford to better understand the impact this road closure will have and ensure the appropriate measures are in place to direct traffic on to the diversion route.

“We are also writing to residents, schools and businesses locally to make them aware of the project and working closely with Keynsham Cricket Club, near to the site of the project, to reduce the impact as much as possible.’’

The bulk of investment will see the town’s water recycling centre off Broadmead Lane being expanded to allow further infrastructure to be installed.

Additional equipment will ensure the water recycling centre can continue to treat more sewage and then safely return it to the environment, as well as ensuring the treatment of wastewater will continue to be carried out to the highest standards.

Project Manager, Kelvin Brick, said: “The refurbishment will also further protect the environment by increasing the site’s capacity to store diluted storm water from combined sewer pipes carrying both rainwater and foul sewage following intense rainfall.

“This will help to reduce instances of storm overflows releasing such untreated water back into the environment automatically.’’

The project is taking place within and around the existing water recycling centre site.

A new gravity sewer will be constructed in Keynsham this summer to help alleviate flooding problems in the town

Need legal advice?

Open Morning and Evenings at Wellsway School

Year 5 - Tuesday 4th July - Tours from 9.15am – 10.45am

Year 6 - Thursday 21st September - Tours from 6.00pm – 8.00pm

Year 6 - Tuesday 26th September - Tours from 9.15am – 10.45am

We are delighted to confirm our two open morning dates; we are offering tours to students and families who are interested in joining Wellsway School in September 2024. Visitors always comment on the purposeful, caring and happy ethos of the school, so what better way for you to find out about our vision and values than to come and experience them for yourselves? For those parents/carers who are unable to attend, there will be an additional Year 6 Open Evening in September. The morning will provide an opportunity to see the school in action; to visit curriculum areas and discuss the Wellsway School experience with students and staff.  Please be advised that the morning will finish at 10.45am, the last tour will depart at 10.20am. Our staff and students are the biggest advocate for our school and I am sure when you visit, you will see why we believe Wellsway School is a unique community.

Sixth Form Open Evening

Thursday 5th October, between 6.00pm – 8.00pm

We are delighted to invite key stage 4 students to our Sixth form open evening. On the evening students will be able see the enhanced range of subjects and enrichment opportunities on offer at Wellsway school and learn how we work as a collaborative Sixth Form ‘Futura Sixth’ to be a truly comprehensive sixth form. Students will have the opportunity to speak with staff; attend a presentation from school leaders; speak with sixth form students and discover more about our wide range of courses and experiences that support students throughout Post-16 and on to their next step. This will be followed up by our Open Morning for external applicants, on Wednesday 18th October 2023, between 9.05am - 10.45am.

THE KEYNSHAM KINGS

Did you know Keynsham had an American Flag Football Club called the Keynsham Kings? Do you know what Flag Football is?

Well, Flag Football is a non-contact version of American Football that can be played by anyone. Contact tackling is not allowed. Flag Football is an invasion game, where pulling a player’s flag simulates a tackle and stops the attack. It is a fast five-a-side game, where one team starts on offence and the other team defends. Each team then takes turns to attack. The aim of the game is to score points by moving the ball into the opponent’s goal area (or end zone), through catching the ball or running it in. This is called scoring a touchdown! Flag Football has many principles similar to contact American Football but is played at a much faster pace and with traditionally more passing attempts and touchdowns.

The Keynsham Kings Bristol Bath American Flag Football Club is a not-for-profit organisation, established to foster the learning, involvement and love of the game and bring local communities together. Currently, the Kings are participating in the British American Football Association (BAFA) mixed gender adult league.

The Kings aim to provide a friendly and safe environment for men and women aged 16 and over to learn the game of Flag Football. They offer people the chance to test their fitness, learn new athletic skills and grow friendships, positively impacting on players’ physical and mental wellbeing. The Kings strongly believe in the opportunity to foster a competitive but inclusive environment, where individuals can progress their athletic abilities and grow social networks.

The club aims to have at least two BAFA-affiliated teams operating in Keynsham within the next year, so they are looking to expand. They train weekly on Sundays and are always welcoming to new players wanting to give the sport a go. Do you think this is something you or someone you know would like to be a part of? For more information about the club, if you would like to come along to a training session, or would like the opportunity to aid the club through sponsorship, please find the Keynsham Kings on Facebook or Instagram @keynshamkings or email them directly at Keynshamkings@gmail.com

GooD C ITI zEN AWARD

Now in its 14th year, the Good Citizen Award aims to recognise individuals who devote their time and effort to enhance the Keynsham community. At the Town Council’s Annual Town Meeting on 20th April, Keynsham Town Council were pleased to award the following residents Good Citizen Awards.

All the winners have devoted their time and effort to their various Clubs and Associations - thank you for all that you do and congratulations to all our winners!

over 25s

under 25s

Geoff Davis, Somerdale Shed

Mark Tanner, Keynsham Table Tennis Club

Matty Jackson KeynshamNow

Russell Pocock, Keynsham Mencap

Tracie-Jane Bath, for her support of Keynsham Music Festival

Trevor Cruse, Keynsham Life Saving Club

bEREAVEMENT SuppoRT drOP ins

Bereavement Support Keynsham completed its first year of operation in February. Through a ‘drop-in ‘ service, the group offer support to those suffering bereavement. The service has proven to be of value with attendance on the fourth Monday of the month afternoon session between 10 and 18 people. The first Wednesday of the month session, between 5.30pm and 7pm, receives up to half a dozen attendees. The evening sessions were enabled by a donation from Keynsham Town Council in 2022.

All volunteers have received facilitation training from Dorothy House Hospice. The drop-in sessions are free and tea, coffee and biscuits are

offered. The drop-in sessions are held in the Church Hall at Keynsham Baptist Church but are not linked to the Church or any religious body. Like many groups, Bereavement Support Keynsham do not receive any regular funding from any source. Should anyone or any company or business wish to support the work that is delivered, donations can be made via account number 69069463, sort code 30-98-97 at Lloyds Bank.

Further information regarding Bereavement Support Keynsham, can be achieved via bereavementkeynsham@gmail.com or by contacting 07776493221.

KTCRFM in ThE C OMMuni T y

Easter weekend saw the first radio broadcast from members of Keynsham and District’s Mencap. DJ Barry and his assistant Suzie have been providing music at Mencap events and other functions for some time, but now they’ve been training with KTCRfm to make radio programmes. They produced their first show in just three studio sessions of learning to use the studio equipment and software. “The best way of learning is to actually do”, said KTCRfm’s Ric Davison, “Almost making a show without realising it! But all the decisions were theirs, and it was a pleasure to see how quickly they progressed.”

There seemed no reason not to broadcast Barry and Suzie’s first hour show as an Easter Special, and some good comments have been sent to the radio station.

Barry and Suzie are aiming to make a regular programme on KTCRfm and it seems it won’t be long before we are hearing them across the area on a regular basis.

To contact KTCRfm, email ktcrfm@gmail.com

kE ynshaM & d isTriCT D IA l-A-RIDE

The organisation operates a Door-toDoor service Monday to Friday 8am to 6pm for residents in Keynsham & Saltford.

To join, you need to register as a member and pay a one-off fee of £10. Diamond Travel Card (Bus Pass) holders can travel using their card within Keynsham/ Saltford and some surrounding villages for a discounted price.

You do not need to have mobility issues or be a Senior Citizen to become a member to use the service.

Our vehicles can also carry wheelchairs and scooters (subject to assessment).

We pride ourselves in giving you a reliable and personal service to enable members to have their independence and freedom within the local area, whether that be general shopping, medical appointments (this includes Hospital appointments to RUH, Paulton, St Martins & Sulis Peasedown St John), clubs and activities or meeting with friends.

We also operate half and full-day trips to Bath, Wells, Yate, Chippenham, Cheltenham, Weston, Gloucester, Cardiff and many other places which include garden centres.

Our aim is to allow all our members to enjoy life to the full – whatever your transport needs within our area of coverage, we are only a phone call away.

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You and your Community need us, and we need them. Contact us by telephone 01225 395321 or email Admin@keynshamdialaride.co.uk.

WA lKERS ARE WElC oME

Keynsham Walkers are Welcome have continued their monthly walks throughout the Winter, with a varied programme with an average of 30 hardened walkers attending

We now look forward to the Summer season. Organisers have decided that due to their popularity, to continue to have two walks per month until our Walking Festival at the end of September. Once again, we are utilising the excellent services of the Keynsham Dial-a-Ride to ferry us around on some of the walks.

Don’t forget all walks are open to anyone, no membership required. Details of all walks can be found on the Keynsham Walkers are Welcome website or contact Dave Johnson on 07866440968.

SuMMER WA lKING pRoGRAMME 2023

All walks start at 10.00 and include a refreshment stop, unless stated otherwise.

Sunday 11th June – Meet at the Memorial Park gates for a short 2.5 mile walk around Manor Road Woodlands. There is no refreshment stop on this walk.

Sunday 25th June – Meet at the Fox & Hounds car park to catch the minibus to Golden Valley for a 5-mile circular walk. Or you can meet us at Golden Valley.

Sunday 9th July – Meet at the Memorial Park gates for a short walk around the Somerdale playing fields and the Humpy Tumps. There will not be a refreshment stop on this walk.

Sunday 23rd July – Meet at the Memorial Park gates for a circular 5 mile walk around Chewton Keynsham and Stockwood Vale. There is no refreshment stop on this walk.

Sunday 6th August – Meet at the Memorial Park gates for a 4-mile circular walk to Hanham, coming back to Keynsham alongside the Keynsham Rugby Field.

Sunday 20th August – There are three options with this walk. You can meet at the car park by Lockkeeper/Keynsham Marina at 10.00 for an 11-mile circular walk to Kelston Round Hill, or you can catch the minibus at Fox & Hounds car park at 10.30, joining the walk at Swineford, or meet us at Swineford car park at 11.00. for a 5-mile walk.

Sunday 3rd September – Meet at the Memorial Park gates for a short 2 mile walk around Stockwood Vale. There will not be a refreshment stop on this walk.

Friday 29th September – Sunday 1st October –Walking Festival details nearer the time

KEYNSHAM MENCAp

Keynsham & District Mencap Society (K&DMS) Trustee, Russ Pocock, is receiving Keynsham Town Council’s Good Citizen Award for his work for this well-loved local charity over the last 10 years. He joined in June 2013 as Treasurer and is now the longest-standing trustee.

Money needs to be managed well for this small charity to thrive, and Russ keeps a keen eye over the purse strings in the background, making it possible to continue to support members and invest in the charity’s future. He’s a strong gatekeeper and he ensures that decisions made about funds are collaborative with trustees and in the best interests of the members. With his help and advice, Keynsham Mencap are able to

not only continue running nine clubs a week, but they also offer two holidays a year providing essential respite to members’ families, and most

Russ outside the Chocolate Factory

importantly the best week of the year for many of the members.

Russ is delighted by the recognition of his commitment and noted that he’d come to the charity rather by chance and agreed to stay ‘in the interim.’ K&DMS are very grateful that this very active ‘interim’ trustee is still with them 10 years on.

K&DMS runs a fully inclusive programme of clubs and activities for people with learning disabilities and complex needs, including autism. The nine weekly clubs include: socials for adults and children, music lessons and sports, as well as group holidays, community outings and outdoor pursuits. They offer people with additional needs the same social opportunities as others in supported environment.

lives. The occasion was marked by a surprise meal for Laura who said: “I have the best job in the world and can’t believe I am fortunate enough to get to do something I love every day. It has been the most amazing 15 years.”

Keynsham and District Mencap is a self-funded charity, all money is from grants and donations from the local community and fundraising events. The recent cake sale at The Chocolate Quarter and tombola at the Spring Show together raised £700! Thank you to all our supporters who were amazingly generous and donated cakes, prizes and vouchers to these events.

One of the clubs celebrated it’s 5-year anniversary on Saturday 1st April by putting on an anniversary concert. The Music Man Project was started in April 2018 and the club has gone from strength to strength, meeting weekly to provide enjoyable and engaging musical experiences that give a ‘voice’ to the musicians, developing skills and increasing confidence. The concert was a huge success with the musicians performing their favourite songs and showcasing some new ones; it was a chance to celebrate and see all that the musicians have achieved in five years.

There are also celebrations for Operation Manager Laura Jefferies, who has been working for Keynsham Mencap for 15 years this year! Laura works tirelessly for the members and her commitment and devotion has touched so many

Keynsham and District Mencap Society are also celebrating 45 years this year and will mark this milestone achievement by hosting a celebration event.

This event is to celebrate how far the society has come, what it has achieved in the past 45 years and most importantly, an opportunity to say thank you to all its supporters. There have been so many people over the years that have either given up their time to help the members, fundraised for the society or have supported its fundraising efforts. More details of this event will be released soon!

If you would like to know more about Keynsham Mencap and its projects, or can volunteer monthly or more, please contact laura@keynshammencap.org.uk.

Anniversary concert by the Music Man Project

Operation Manager, Laura Jefferies

C oMMuNITY AT 67 nEWs

APublic Living Room is opening at Community at 67, Queens Road, Keynsham. It will be somewhere people can pop in for a cuppa and a chat with others and to get some light relief from day-to-day life. The space will be open 12.30 – 4.30 pm every Tuesday.

It will be a space where people can relax, connect with others and be themselves and those who come will get a warm welcome, a cup of tea and a feeling of community. What they’ll never get is judgement or anyone trying to fix them.

Clare Hudson, Community at 67 Trustee, said: “Times have been tough for people in Keynsham with the pandemic and now the cost-of-living crisis and I don’t know anyone who hasn’t found it hard. I hope that the Public Living Room in Community at 67 will be a place where anyone can take a break from their daily worries, have a chat and feel a sense of connection. Sometimes that’s all we need to help us to keep going.”

Do you want to make a difference to our community?

Community at 67 is a charity that runs a small community centre on Queens Road and is also involved in projects that help support and build our community. We are looking for trustees who understand the community and can bring their

insights and expertise to help support us. We are in the process of revising our business plan for the next three years based on the findings from a consultation project we are running. If you would like to be involved in Community at 67 and making a difference to the community, please get in touch. It’s not just about attending meetings (although this is required) but having practical input into the running of the organisation. Our monthly programme continues in 2023. We have something for all ages at our centre in Queens Road, including maths and code clubs for children, craft and IT groups for adults, as well as courses on mental well-being and Spanish. For details about Community at 67 have a look at our website www.community-67.org

ASp poETRY C IRC lE

C

ome and join the ASP Poetry Circle, which takes place on every 3rd Monday of the month, from 11am until 12 noon.

We meet in the Upstairs Balcony at Keynsham Library, address: Civic Centre, Market Walk, Keynsham, BS31 1FS. Bring two or three poems with you, either your own or from another poet, to share. Find out more on our website: www.asppoetrycircle.wordpress.com/

KEYNSHAM TA lKING NEWS n OW aVaiLaBLE OnLinE

The Keynsham & District Talking Newspaper for the Blind, a weekly free service provided on USB sticks, is now also available on the KTN website. KTN is a free service for partially sighted and blind people, with around 100 listeners in Keynsham and surrounding areas, as well as further afield.

The weekly service can now be accessed via the KTN website at: https://www.ktn.org.uk/listento-our-programs-online/

To gain access to ‘Listen Online’, register with the KTN as usual via our Listener Liaison Officer on 0117 299 3021 to complete a short form. Current listeners have been already provided with the access details.

Mike Crane, KTN Chair, says: “We are delighted to offer this new service. If you or someone you know is blind or partially sighted and would like to receive our free weekly news and magazine via USB memory stick or through the Listen Online service, please get in touch via 0117 299 3021 to register.”

Seeking volunteers

KTN is also recruiting for a volunteer editor, technician, and presenter/reader. Full training will be provided.

Firstly, we are looking for someone to join the Editing Team for the News side. The Editor selects the news items from local newspapers of the region ready for the recording team. As such they would need to be available on a Thursday (usually morning) when they are on duty which is about once a month.

We are also looking for new technicians to help with recordings. The sessions take place on Wednesdays or Thursdays, and they would be

required to take part around once a month.

We are also looking for new readers to join our news or magazine teams on a rota, with attendance on a Thursday evening once a month or so, or during the day on Tuesday or Wednesday.

About Keynsham & District Talking Newspaper

Started in 1983, the KTN service is a free weekly audio magazine on a memory stick, sent through the post weekly via yellow wallets using the Royal Mail’s Articles for the Blind scheme which gives free 1st Class delivery to items for blind or visually impaired people. It goes to around 100 listeners. It is also now available via the KTN website on the Listen Online feature.

If you or someone you know is unable to read newsprint, we would be delighted to supply them with the KTN service. If they do not have the means to play memory sticks, we can supply an easy-to-use box to play the USB sticks on. New listeners are welcomed and can be located anywhere in the Bristol, Bath, Somerset region or further afield.

Contact: 0117 299 3021.

Website: www.ktn.org

KEYNSHAM MuSIC FESTIVA l JunE 26Th – JuLy 2nd 2023

Planning for this year’s festival is now complete and we can’t wait to share it with you. A great deal of work by the team has resulted in our ability to put on what is looking to be our biggest festival ever.

We are excited to be able to showcase some truly amazing events and performances to bring our community together in what, for many of us, has been a difficult period.

Our sincere thanks to the Town Council who continue to be so supportive. We also owe a huge thanks to all the local businesses who have been so generous in providing us with much needed sponsorship. We will be highlighting them over the coming weeks, and we ask that you return their generosity by providing them with as much business as you can.

We also continue to rely very heavily on your donations at the gate so, please be as generous as you can. For full details and tickets, see our website, keynshammusicfestival.co.uk.

MuSIC FESTIVA l 2023 HIGHlIGHTS

What can you look forward to this year? As always, we hope we have catered for all tastes – here are some of the many highlights.

We have teamed up with the Keynsham Town Council Youth Service to bring a brand-new festival within a festival. The Nova Youth Arts Festival has been developed by young people for young people and will cater to 11- to 19-year-olds in their own stretch-tent. It will comprise areas for performance, workshops, exhibitions, and a place just to chill-out.

There will be a launch party on Friday 30th June and will have planned events all weekend.

Also joining us for the first time are Keynsham & Saltford Eco Festival including 20 to 30 stalls providing information, ideas, and fun ways to look after our planet.

Mozart’s Don Giovanni (in the Park on Thursday 29th June) by festival favourites Opera in a Box. A chance to see this famous opera performed in English in a Big Top – an evening not to be missed.

Comedy in the park – A host of local comedians in the Big Top (Thursday 29th June) with special guest Gavin Osborn! This event is raising money for not only the Festival but also for Julian House (who provide opportunities for homeless).

Seize the Day + Support – (in the Park on Friday 30th June). Having played all the major UK festivals, we are delighted to welcome the band to Keynsham!

Memory Café – on the afternoon of Friday 30th June, there will be a dedicated area for those living with dementia – together with their families and support carers. It will be a safe space to relax and meet other people in the same situation. It will be a space where memories of music and colour will play such an important role. Access by (free) ticket only.

FESTIVA l lINE-up HIGHlIGHTS

We also have a jam-packed weekend in the Park.

Saturday 1st July

Family Festival – celebrating all the best in local contemporary performance art, it will include entertainment that the whole family can enjoy together, workshops, climbing wall, circus, walkabout and street entertainers, and a community stage. Circomedia will again be showcasing their students’ work. This year we welcome back KLOGS who, together with the Phoenix Youth Theatre group, will be performing a wide selection of musical delights.

Especially for younger children, we are delighted to welcome Super Pirates. They will also be around on Sunday too!

You may remember that last year we saw torrential rain for the Family Festival! Fingers crossed that will not happen this year but, if it does, all the activities will be under shelter!

Artzones – there will be several dedicated areas where we encourage you to take part in the production of unique Keynsham art – artists will be on hand to help and guide you.

• Supported by the Keynsham Town Council Youth Team and local artist Nick Halahan from Olas Art, there will be a chance for young people to try their hand at spray paint art

• Everyone is welcome to help with the development of an art installation out of natural willow, open to all ages

• An ArtSpace Gallery where people will have the chance to see the work of our many talented local artists

Wellbeing Village – bringing together more than 20 local practitioners to showcase and provide a chance to try out many ways to a healthier life – whether through mindfulness, diet, or exercise. This will be your chance to experience different forms of yoga, pilates and massage. Hear the mesmerising sounds of Tibetan ringing bowls.

Folk Festival – hear some of the best performers - be prepared to leave preconceptions behind because there will be some surprises. Enjoy an evening of high energy music and dance.

Duck Race – not one but two! This festival tradition is back thanks to The Southwest UK Lions Club!

Grounded Garden Stage – a laid back opportunity to soak up some acoustic performances.

bath Gilbert & Sullivan Society – we are absolutely delighted to welcome for the first time, this renowned group of players who will be performing The Mikado. This promises to be something very special.

Sunday 2nd July

Four Music Stages – catering for all musical tastes, we have an amazing line up of top performers. You are going to be well and truly spoilt for choice.

Dance Stage – a mix of all forms of dance, from traditional to current contemporary styles. Due to such a success last year, we have another professional ballet performance! A special mention for the organiser of the dance stage –congratulations to Tricia Veale who celebrates 50 years of providing dance tuition to Keynsham!

Circomedia – aerial circus skills at their finest from up-and-coming performance artists.

Artzones – same as those running on Saturday .

Creative Arena – An afternoon for young people with the Super Pirates!

Duck Race – yes, that makes three!

Food Arena – we have food vendors to suit all tastes.

bars – The Old Bank Bar near the Bandstand Stage will be renamed “Simon’s Bar” in memory of Simon Sherwell who was such a big help in helping us to make local bars such a big part of today’s festival.

There are even more week events to announce so do keep an eye out on social media

Facebook (Keynsham Music Festival)

Instagram page (@keyshamfest)

keynshammusicfestival.co.uk

I am sure you can all appreciate the time and hard work that our volunteers have put in to organise such an amazing festival. Please, please be generous with your donations.

See you all in the Park!

Mike May Chair, KMFA

KEYNSHAM boWlING C lub

The first woods were rolled by the then members of Keynsham Bowling Club on the green in Keynsham Memorial Park in 1957. Since then, the club has gone from strength to strength and is now very much a friendly club that is more than just a bowling club.

On the bowling front, the men field three teams in each of the Somerset League and the Bristol and District League, as well as a team in the Bristol Triples League. Our ladies play in both the Somerset and Mendip leagues whilst we also field a mixed side in the Somerset Mixed League. Both ladies and gents also play in a variety of friendly fixtures both at home and away. Whilst all this is happening, our rinks get well played, usually in the mornings, as members compete against one another in internal club competitions, which culminate in a finals weekend in September. Winners receive their trophies at the Club Annual Dinner in November.

In addition to playing bowls, members also enjoy a varied social programme throughout the year. On the first Wednesday of the month, we hold our coffee morning and in the Summer, we have our ‘Captains’ Charity BBQ’, which has helped us raise thousands of pounds for mainly local charities over the years. At the end of our bowling season, we have our final rollup, which includes a fish and chip supper and we then move into our Winter programme of activities. Each month we have a different event, such as Bingo, Beetle Drive, quiz or entertainment (all including a supper) and in December we stage our Christmas Party.

We are affiliated with Bowls England and each year, we participate in their ‘Big Bowls Weekend’ when we stage our Open Day. So, if you have never rolled a wood and would like to give it a try, why not sign up for one of our hourly sessions on either Saturday 27th or Monday 29th of May? Slots are available at 10.00 and 11.00 am and 2.00

and 3.00 pm each day. You can reserve your place by making contact with our Club Secretary David at kbc57info@gmail.com or telephoning 07787 968874. All equipment will be provided and you just need to wear a pair of flat shoes. Our qualified club coaches will be on hand to ‘show you the ropes.’ So do it now – we would love to hear from you. Bowls is a great game to play as it is a great leveller irrespective of age or gender.

inaugura L SpRING SHoW a rE sOunding suCCE ss

On25th March, Keynsham Town Council held its first ever Spring Show, a new community event which allowed entrants to put their ‘very best’ on show. Over 120 people displayed - from the perfect daffodils to pristine leeks, tasty scones to the most intricate cross stitch - the variety of talent on display was a testament to our community here in Keynsham and it was fantastic to see all the hidden talents that are among us.

During the morning each of the exhibitors brought their prize-hopeful entries to the Scout Headquarters where a group of selected judges

carefully chose the top three exhibits in each class.

At noon, the Show was opened by Giuseppe Dell’Anno, winner of The Great British Bake Off 2021, congratulating everyone on a highly competitive show and cutting the official ribbon. Over 1,000 visitors came through the Scout HQ doors during the afternoon, to admire the entries and support local businesses and organisations that had stalls around the two main halls.

Giuseppe was also our judge for the cookery section saying: “It was my pleasure and I’m expecting many, many Spring Shows for Keynsham

in the future.” Julie Constable was the proud recipient of the trophy for the most points awarded in this section, along with a personalised signed copy of Giuseppe’s book!

The Arts & Handicraft section was hugely popular with several classes having 15 entries to judge! The overall Best In Show went to Joe Tymkow for his beautiful painting of the railway bridge over the River Chew.

Even with the cold start to the year, the horticultural section was well represented with over 50 vases of daffodils on display with their iconic Spring scent filling the air. Neil Hatch was the recipient of the Best In Show for a beautiful display of nine picture-perfect daffodils.

Our younger generations were well represented by three different age categories. Local nurseries, Cub Packs, Girl Guides and After School Clubs got into the spirit with over 80 children entering their best decorated hard-boiled egg, junk model, cress and A4 paintings.

“Holding the event at the Scout HQ was an obvious decision to give the event a community feel, and it was wonderful to hear so many residents say how nice it was to be back in a place where they had made so many memories during their own childhood,” said Katherine Sears, Deputy Town Clerk and Lead of the Spring Show organising team. “It’s been an absolute pleasure bringing this event to life, the support we have had from the community has been overwhelming.” Plans and ideas have already been noted ready for next year!

A massive thank you to all our event sponsors, it simply wouldn’t have been possible without your generosity; Redfern Osteopaths, Dyenamix, WW Memorials, Wards Solicitors, Meryton Place, Europa Restaurant, Small Prints, Davies and Way, Avon Valley Adventure & Wildlife Park, Snapdragons Nursery, Wild About Flowers and Savour.

• The Keynsham in Bloom Trophy awarded to Neil Hatch.

Awarded to the winner of the most points in Classes 01 to 11 (Horticulture)

• The Wild About Flowers Trophy awarded to Anne-Marie Bird.

Awarded to the winner of the most points in Classes 12 to 23 (Horticulture)

• Best in Show in the Horticulture section awarded to Neil Hatch.

Awarded to the best exhibit in the Horticultural Section; Classes 01 to 23

Handmade by Allen Richards from ArtSpace

• The Savour Trophy awarded to Julie Constable.

Awarded to the winner of the most point in Classes 26 to 35 (Cookery)

• Best in Show in Arts & Handicraft section awarded to Joe Tymkow.

Awarded to the best exhibit in the Arts & Handicraft Section; Classes 36 to 46

• The Snap Dragons Trophy awarded to Sophia Gaze and Maximilian Mason. Awarded to the winner of the most points in Classes 47 to 50 (Children Under 5yrs)

• The Truespeed Trophy awarded to George Philpott.

Awarded to the winner of the most points in Classes 51 to 54 (Children Under 7yrs)

• The Caitlin Marie Nails Trophy awarded to Rosie Gaze.

Awarded to the winner of the most points in Classes 55 to 58 (Children Under 11yrs)

REpAIR CAFE: fixing a LL sOr Ts, frOM BaTMOBiLE s TO TaBLE LaMPs

The Keynsham Repair Cafe sees a huge variety of broken things, and this month was extra special, as a Batmobile arrived needing a bit of attention,” said volunteer, Gwen. “Whilst we couldn’t fix it on the spot, we think we’ve identified the part which is needed, so we’re hoping ‘Batman’ will return again soon and we can help get it back on the road.”

More typically, the volunteers at the Keynsham Repair Cafe – a free of charge, pop-up, monthly repair event with a cafe, at Keynsham Baptist Church on the High Street – help to fix everyday household things like toasters and lamps, sew a

button onto a jacket, glue a handle back onto amuch-loved mug, as well as more unusual items.

“The team love the surprise of the repair cafe; we never know what will be brought through the door, or the ingenuity that will be needed to get things working again. Some things just can’t be fixed, others can’t be fixed by us – and we try and provide suggestions about who might be able to help.”

There are over two and a half thousand voluntary repair cafes globally, and plenty around the Bath and Bristol area. “If you have something you would like to be able to use again, why not take a look at our website, or turn up at our next event? Our ‘successful fix’ rate is more than 80%!”

Keynsham Repair Cafe: every 2nd Saturday (same as Keynsham Farmers’ Market), 10 a.m-12 noon in Keynsham Baptist Church on the High Street.

keynshamrepaircafe.wixsite.com/home

2023 dates: 10th June, 8th July, 12th August, 9th September, 14th October, 11th November, 9th December.

KEYNSHAM SC ouTS sEEk a duLTs

We are so lucky to have one of the most successive Scouts groups in the country sat right in the heart of our community. Many will know that waiting lists for young people have always featured and today with the growth of the community, that is no different. 1st Keynsham Scouts are now looking to focus on increasing youth membership further and that requires adults, there are numerous roles, and these are just examples:

• A uniformed leader on an evening with the Beavers/Cubs/Scout or Explorers

• A member of the retired maintenance team meeting Monday mornings

• An administrator helping to manage lettings

• An activity instructor delivering activitie,s such as climbing, kayaking, shooting and more

• A fund-raising manager seeking finances to provide more activities and equipment

• Help with organisation of fund-raising events such as clay shoots and Auction

If you are over 18 years old (there is no upper age limit) and want to know more, then please email scouts@1stkeynshamscouts.org.uk. We will be more than happy to share plans and talk about how you can get involved - everyone has skills they can share. This is flexible volunteering, providing fun, adventure and friendship for yourself while giving life skills to the next generation. Make a difference in your community and come talk to us.

Date for diaries in 2023

Saturday 30th September – Scout Auction and Book sale

TIMEouT YouTH Club PrEParE s f Or nOVa yOuTh ar Ts fE sTiVa L

TimeOut Youth Club has been buzzing with young people getting involved in various activities, including skateboard deck design with local artist Nick Halahan from Olas Art, Bake Offs with volunteer chef Maggie and cooking with Carole

Members of Nova Youth Arts Festival Board have been planning for the Summer festival at a weekend away at the Mendip Activity Centre, including starting the willow mushroom installation with willow kindly donated from Flourish Foodhall, Kitchen and Home & Lifestyle store in Saltford.

We are so excited for the festival and we’re already starting to recruit artists and musicians. If you are interested in performing at the festival 30th June, 1st & 2nd of July we’d love to hear from you!

For more information about performing at Nova Youth Arts Festival, contact TimeOut’s Music Studio Manager Lewin. He can offer musical support alongside rehearsal space in our music studios. Contact: lewin@keynsham-tc.gov.uk

Keep your eyes peeled for further announcements on Nova Youth Arts Festival in the next few weeks!

The programme of Summer Bandstand concerts is brought to you by Keynsham Town Council

C ouNCIl daTE s

• Monday, May 22, 7.30pm

Planning & Development Committee, Baptist Church

• Tuesday, May 23, 7.30pm

Town Council, The Space

• Wednesday, May 24, TBC

Personnel Committee, Town Council office

• Tuesday, May 30, 6pm

Environment and Sustainability Committee, Town Council office

• Wednesday, June 7, 4pm

Events, Arts, Tourism & Heritage (EATH) Committee, Town Council office

• Wednesday, June 14, 7.30pm Grants Committee, Town Council office

• Monday, June 19, 7.30pm

Planning & Development Committee, Baptist Church

• Tuesday, June 20, 7pm

Finance and Policy Committee, The Space

• Tuesday, June 20, 7.30pm Town Council, The Space

• Wednesday, July 5, 4pm

Events, Arts, Tourism & Heritage (EATH) Committee, Town Council office

• Tuesday, July 11, 6pm

Environment and Sustainability Committee, Town Council office

• Monday, July 17, 7.30pm

Planning & Development Committee, Baptist Church

• Tuesday, July 18, 6.30pm

Finance and Policy Committee, Town Council office

• Tuesday, July 25, 7.30pm Town Council, The Space

• Monday, August 7, 7.30pm

Planning & Development Committee, Baptist Church

• Tuesday, August 15, 6.30pm

Finance and Policy Committee, Town Council office

• Monday, September 4, 7.30pm

Planning & Development Committee, Baptist Church

• Wednesday, September 6, 4pm

Events, Arts, Tourism & Heritage (EATH) Committee, Town Council office

• Tuesday, September 12, 6.30pm

Finance and Policy Committee, Town Council office

• Tuesday, September 19, 7.30pm Town Council, The Space

• Tuesday, September 26, 6pm

Environment and Sustainability Committee, Town Council office Clarkson’s Independent Funeral Directors Ltd

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KEYF oRD DANCING SCHool CELEBraTE 50Th anniVErsary

2023 is our 50th anniversary year and during the coming months, we will be adding some new classes to our timetable, these include a Contemporary Class and Jazz and Conditioning Class for Seniors.There are also new modern Jazz classes for Juniors and mini movers for the pre-school age group.

We are pleased to welcome Amy Tickle to our group of teachers and also welcome back Claire Jenkin, who has recently returned to the area after living in London for a number of years. Work is now also starting on our Anniversary Show to be held at Broadlands School in November, this is the first

show for everyone to get involved in since 2018, so everyone is looking forward to this event.

Some pupils will also be dancing at Keynsham Music Festival on July 2nd. For past pupils, there is to be a reunion on 16th September, we are hoping to contact as many of our old students as possible and anyone wanting to come along should contact Patricia Veale on 01761 452073, or message via our Anniversary Facebook page. We would all love to hear from you, and see any old photo memories you might have.

haPPy 15Th Bir Thday KEYNSHAM IN blooM

Keynsham In Bloom are starting the summertime early with several projects in the pipeline.

Our Pocket Park continues to thrive, and the hopscotch will be cleaned and repainted, the birds are enjoying their feeder and water feature and we have seen a fox run through when we have been working on a Saturday morning.

The flowerbeds and containers at the station are looking lovely and we are planting more insect friendly flowers on the Bristol flowerbed side. Also in hand is the painting of a mural, above this strip of garden to enhance our rail entrance to Keynsham. The Dee James Memorial train is full of flowers and will continue to brighten the darker side of the station.

The High Street containers are still planted with Spring flowers, but these will be replaced with colourful cascading Summer bedding to mirror the three-tier planter outside the Library, which will now be situated outside of the Victoria Methodist Church on the High Street.

Should you wish to become a volunteer, please either pop into the Town Council office at 15-17 Temple Street, email Dawn Drury at keynshaminbloom@icloud.com or myself at catherinemarywoodman@gmail.com. You would be very welcome.

Our aim this year is to make our townsfolk smile when they look at our displays.

Keep well and safe and keep gardening.

Mary Woodman Keynsham In Bloom

PrOPO sEd CoMMuNITY GARDEN

Behind the Methodist Church on Queens Road there is a sizeable piece of land owned by the Church that has been unused for a number of years and the Church is proposing that it could become a Community Garden. The Church does not have the human resources to develop this project and then manage it and is therefore proposing that it be a joint project with the community. To try and move this idea forward, a public meeting has been arranged to take place at the Church on May 31st at 7.00 pm to which any interested party or person in the community is invited.

It is envisaged that the space could become an ecological project that enhances biodiversity and

pollination, including raised-allotment beds, a sensory tranquillity area with wildflower beds and seating. The Town Council is supportive of this project and it is hoped that Councillors who will have been recently elected to serve on the Town Council and B&NES will also be able to attend.

So, if you are an individual or belong to an organisation in the area and you are interested in the idea of this project, then please come along to the meeting to offer your thoughts and possibly your help.

Mike Barrow (on behalf of Keynsham Methodist Church)

HEDGEHoG STREET

Summer is the time of year when you are most likely to see hedgehogs in your garden. Avon Wildlife Trust Keynsham Group are asking if you would be willing to co-ordinate a “Hedgehog Street” with your neighbours. We have helped several streets in Keynsham to get together so far and we are looking for more suitable streets to get involved. We can help you with poster/ leaflet design and other ideas to help you interact with your neighbours. Plus, in conjunction with Keynsham Town Council, we are also giving away FREE Hedgehog Highway surrounds to connect gardens for these prickly visitors. A Hedgehog Highway is a 5-inch gap in a fence and is essential in the battle to prevent the extinction of our endangered spiky friends. Hedgehogs can travel

up to 3km in one night. This gap allows them better access to forage for food and meet mates. A Highway surround also raises awareness of their plight and encourages others to take part. Just get in touch with us by e-mail keynshamawt@gmail.com for more information about the hedgehog highway surrounds and Hedgehog Street or visit our webpage www.keynshamawt.org.uk/hedgehogs

For Ages 5-16 Years

Razzamataz Theatre School Bristol South invite you to take part in a fun filled week packed with Dance, Pop Singing & Musical Theatre and a chance to perform in front of family & friends. 31st July - 4th Aug. 5-8’s @ 9am till 12Noon. 9-16’s @

kE ynshaM high sTrEET HERITAGE ACTI oN zoNE

Heritage open Days – 8-17 September

Are you a community group with an amazing story to tell? Do you have a burning idea for a history talk or workshop? Or perhaps you have access to a special heritage building that you want to share with the community? We want to hear from you!

Our Cultural Consortium is once again coordinating Keynsham Heritage Open Days this autumn. For ten days in September, shops, squares, churches, cemeteries, private homes, civic buildings, parks and performance venues will open their doors to the public.

The Cultural Consortium team can support with event sign-up, planning and promotion. Your event will also be featured in a special Keynsham Heritage Open Days brochure and on the Hi! Keynsham website.

Last year, 11 open events were registered in Keynsham. We would love to match or beat this in 2023! Get in touch at keynshamhshaz@bathnes.gov.uk to find out more.

Keynsham MakeSpace

The new arts & community hub on Riverside Square launched in February and we’ve since been working closely with local artists and community groups to schedule a wide range of exciting activities over the summer – including creative workshops, pop-up shops, exhibitions, and more. Browse the full programme of forthcoming events at: https://www.hikeynsham.co.uk/whats-on/

If you or your group, business or club would like to hire MakeSpace, it’s not too late! We welcome pop-up shops, studio sessions, events, exhibitions, workshops, meetings, co-working, skills and training sessions, and more. Find out how to get involved at: https://www.hikeynsham.co.uk/ event/keynsham-makespace/

You can find MakeSpace

local Cultural programme Small Grants

For the last two years, we have supported a range of creative community projects through our Small Grants scheme – including Keynsham Music

Heritage Open Days volunteers at Keynsham Abbey. Image credit: Mike May

at 2 Riverside Terrace, diagonally opposite the entrance to Keynsham Leisure Centre

Festival on the High Street; KTCRfm Presents; It Takes a Village by Isobel Tarr; Monster Windows by Kate McGregor-Michael; and Kings and Commoners in Keynsham by Show of Strength Theatre Company.

The 2023-24 grants were awarded in May and projects will soon be announced. Expect exhibitions, creative workshops, and more! Visit https://www.hikeynsham.co.uk/whats-on/ for more information.

An update on the Temple Street public Space Improvements:

At the time of writing, we are in the final stages of completing the Phase 2B Temple Street Improvement Works. We look forward to the install installation of planters, parklets and cycle parking in early summer.

For more information visit the project page: www.hikeynsham.co.uk/event/temple-street-public-realm-improvement-project/

Keynsham Music Festival on the High Street. Image credit: Mike May 0117 901 2546

MEET THE TEAM: aManda

rE sPOnsiBLE f inanCE OffiCEr

Q. What does your job at the Council involve?

My role is the Responsible Finance Officer. It is my job to administer the Council’s financial affairs in accordance with all Acts, Regulations and proper practices, determine on behalf of the Council its accounting records and accounting control systems, ensure those systems are observed, maintain the accounting records of the Council, checking they are up to date in accordance with proper practices, assist the Council to secure economy, efficiency and effectiveness in the use of its resources and produce financial management information for the Council. In other words, anything to do with finance!

Q. What are the most enjoyable aspects of working for the Council?

I took a job in Local Council as I believe we are at the level where we can make a real difference in people’s day-to-day lives, and of course, my colleagues at the Council are a great team and have made me feel welcome. I feel like I’ve worked here forever!

Q. Away from work what are your hobbies/ interests?

My main hobby is cooking and baking - I am definitely a feeder, much to the delight of my friends and family. I like to experiment with food to get the right flavours and test them out at dinner parties. I have two dogs so I’m always out walking no matter what the weather is, rain or shine. I love socialising and spend a lot of time with friends and family, either just for a quiet cuppa, a few drinks on a Friday night, or going on holiday. I am also a horror fan. At weekends I will often be sat reading a horror novel or watching a horror movie.

Q. What are your favourite aspects of Keynsham?

Not living in Keynsham, I didn’t know the area very well. In the short time I’ve been working at the Town Council I’ve noticed a real sense of community. People like to get involved and assist others. I’ve also been learning about the history of Keynsham from our Assistant Town Clerk, which is fascinating, and of course, the High Street. Living in a smaller village with few shops, it’s nice to be able to go for a walk on my lunch break and be able to get practically everything I need.

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