Bishopston Voice December 2023 by Emma Cooper

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December, 2023 Issue 131

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Traders get in festive mood Businesses in Glos Rd Central are preparing for their annual seasonal shopping evening on December 7. PAGE 6

35,000 homes needed by 2040

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Bristol Lord Mayor Councillor Steve Pearce with volunteer community gardeners at an awards ceremony at the Ardagh on Horfield Common. Report: Page 3 Photo: Charlie Watts

New Rovers stand gets go-ahead BRISTOL City Council has fast-tracked a new planning application for a new South Stand at the Memorial Stadium. Bristol Rovers had already started work on the stand after its first bid for permission hit delays.

Now a planning committee has granted approval just six weeks after the new application was submitted. Councillors agreed to the proposals although members of all parties were critical of the club for its initial failure to

engage with people living nearby. The club, which hopes to open the stand this month, has pledged to communicate regularly with neighbours in future.

Councillors have identified potential sites for the 35,000 homes Bristol is estimated to need by 2040. PAGE 7

'Don't shut our vital pharmacy' Campaigners are urging Boots not to shut a well-used and accessible pharmacy in Southmead Road PAGE 17

Full story: Pages 4 & 5

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January deadline

December, 2023

Useful numbers

Bristol City Council 0117 922 2000 Citizens Advice Bureau 0844 499 4718 Police www.avonandsomersetpolice.uk General enquiries: 101 Emergency: 999 Fire www.avonfire.gov.uk General enquiries: 0117 926 2061

Emergency: 999 NHS Health Call 111 Well Aware (health and social care information) www.wellaware.org.uk Freephone: 0808 808 5252 We are Bristol helpline Freephone 0800 694 0184 Mon-Fri 8.30am-5pm Weekends 10am-2pm

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 the Bishopston 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. A member of the

Our January deadline is December 11. To ensure your news or letter is included, please contact us by this date. Advertisers are also asked to contact us by the same date.

Your views Letters for publication can be sent to the above email addresses or by post to Letters, Bishopston Voice, 16 Ashmead Business Centre, Ashmead Road, Keynsham, BS31 1SX. The editor reserves the right to edit your letter.

PUBLISHER’S NOTE: Bishopston 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. Bishopston Voice is distributed each month to Bishopston residents. If for some reason you do not get a copy, please collect one from local pick-up points. Feedback is always welcomed, contact Emma Cooper on 0117 908 2121 or emma@bishopstonvoice.co.uk. This month 10,700 copies copies will be distributed around Bishopston, Redland and St Andrews.

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December, 2023

n NEWS

Ardagh gardens win regional award BRISTOL’S Acting Lord Mayor Steve Pearce attended an event at the Ardagh on Horfield Common to celebrate achievements in this year’s Royal Horticultural Society’s It’s your Neighbourhood (IYN) scheme. IYN is for volunteer-led projects or groups who are focused on improving their local environment through community gardening. Among the winners was the Ardagh Community Trust, which was awarded the 2023 Gordon Ford Trophy after being judged by South West in Bloom be the best IYN entry in the region. ACT took over responsibility for management and maintenance of the Ardagh site – including the public gardens from Bristol City Council in 2019. It hosted the awards ceremony, which was attended by Bristol participants in the IYN scheme, among them Friends of Troopers Hill, Snuff Mills Action Group, Redcatch Community Garden, Ambition Lawrence Weston, Friends of Parson Street Railway Station, Stockwood Growing Together, Bedminster Station

Community gardening at the Ardagh Garden,, Filwood Residents Association, Kings Weston Action Group, Victoria Park Community Garden and Manor Woods Valley Group. The guests, including Cllr Pearce, Steven Clampin from BCC’s Parks Department, Judy Gowenlock from Your Park B&B and Frances Robertson from Bristol Parks Forum, were served lunch prepared by the community Café on the Common, which featured food grown by volunteers at the

Ardagh. Visitors were also taken on a tour of the gardens. Sam Thomson, chief executive of ACT, said: “It was a wonderful celebration and a brilliant opportunity for volunteers across the city to get together to share ideas, experiences and knowledge. “As a result of ongoing funding cuts for parks and community spaces in the UK, the role of volunteers in enhancing community spaces, high streets, parks and other shared spaces is increasingly important, and visible. “Congratulations – and thank you – to all those across Bristol who are volunteering their time & energy to help make our community spaces greener, brighter and welcoming for people and for wildlife! “Any community gardeners in Bristol who would like to know more, or to come along next year should get in touch with the RHS South West in Bloom team for more information. "We are already looking forward to hosting next year!"

Campaigners hail end to 'dentistry desert' A DENTAL practice in St Paul’s offering both NHS and private services looks set to open in the new year. The area had been left without any dentists after BUPA shut its 7,000-patient surgery in Ashley Road in June. Following a local campaign by the Dental Action Group, BUPA agreed to continue maintaining the surgery equipment for a year in the hope that another provider could be found to take on the tenancy of the building, which is owned by Sovereign Housing Association. Now the Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire NHS Integrated Care Board, has announced that a potential new dentist has been found. A spokesperson said: “We’re pleased to have made a decision to award the contract to provide dental services in St Paul’s, to SGA services Ltd. We’d like to thank members of the Dental Action Group and local community for their continued

support throughout this process.” SGS Services Ltd provides dental practice management services across the UK, including Twindent Dental Care in Southmead and Thornbury High Street Dental. The contract is likely to be agreed after December 9. The news has been welcomed by campaigners, including Ashley ward councillor Amirah Cole, who has worked with residents since it emerged that the practice was one of 85 across the country being shut by BUPA, who cited recruitment difficulties. West of England Mayor Dan Norris is urging ministers to reform the NHS dental contract. He said: “The severe dentist shortage is a terrible situation for local people waiting in pain, bad for our already stretched hospitals and has knock-on effects across our economy as people take days off sick. Time and again people tell me they just can’t get an NHS dentist. It’s simply impossible. Ministers must urgently fix this crisis."

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December, 2023

n NEWS

Council fast-tracks Rovers stand plans THE new South Stand at the Memorial Stadium could be ready for use this month after a planning application was fast tracked. Bristol Rovers Football Club has now been given permission for the permanent provision for more than 3,000 fans in spite of objections from neighbours. Construction work on the facility had already started before consent was granted. The stand will have to pass safety checks before it can open. The club put in a new planning application to Bristol City Council in early October after its original one was delayed. The council’s development control A committee voted to grant permission on November 15, six weeks after the application was submitted. Planning applications in Bristol can take 18 months to get from submission to approval, due to an ongoing and severe backlog. Speaking to the committee, local resident Chris Walker said: “This stadium has been in the

city for 103 years. It’s about time it’s allowed to develop. It doesn’t cater for disabled people, and visiting supporters have to stand in the rain. It’s unbelievably dilapidated and run down.” Kevin Hunt, representing Rovers, added: “The new South Stand will improve the look and the feel of the Memorial Stadium and provide enhanced facilities for supporters with better provision for disabled spectators in particular. “The club has agreed to financial contributions to improve local road safety and to prepare and implement a travel plan to enhance sustainable transport. The noise assessment and daylight study both demonstrate that there will be no material impact on the neighbouring residents.” The plans include removing the previous modular stand, known as the “tent”, and building a stand with 3,414 seats, new toilets, concession stalls, and better access for disabled fans. The Memorial Stadium opened

in 1921, dedicated to the memory of Bristol rugby players who died in the First World War. The committee heard there had been 169 objections and 397 comments of support. Some residents, particularly those living on Alton Road behind the South Stand, fear the plans will lead to a loss of daylight and exacerbate parking issues. They also criticised Rovers for poor consultation. One resident told councillor: “The club has not consulted properly with the community and this project was rushed through in an attempt to get it ready for the current football season. The initial number of objections was much higher but the council removed and erased them from the system for the resubmission of the application. “I have concerns about the accuracy of the light and noise impact reports. They do not seem correct and neither expert visited my home. A 25 per cent reduction in light was reported as ‘minor’, and that is not minor to

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me. The changes are detrimental to my living conditions. ” Questions were raised about documents submitted the morning of the meeting, which Green Councillor Fi Hance said seemed “a bit iffy”. But officers said the documents were minor updates and revisions, and were improvements on previous plans. All but one councillor on the committee voted to approve, while expressing dismay at the lack of consultation. Green Cllr Paula O’Rourke abstained from voting, and urged the committee to visit the site before deciding. Conservative Cllr Richard Eddy, chair of the committee, said: “Only a very small number of properties, and very minorly, are affected by a small reduction in sunlight. That to me is a positive sign, of course. This is a heartily and supportable positive scheme, and it involves new facilities for the 21st century which Gasheads and others deserve.” By Alex Seabrook, Local Democracy Reporting Service

bishopstonvoice

December, 2023

n NEWS

Locals 'weren't heard' RESIDENTS expressed their dismay following the planning committee's decision to grant permission for the South Stand and councillors said they were disappointed in Bristol Rovers for failing to engage the community about the club's plans. In a statement after the meeting, Rovers acknowledged that they had initially failed to consult local people and said they would engage regularly with residents in future. The club said the stand would improve the "safety and matchday experience" for fans. Two residents, who did not wish to give their surnames, told the Local Democracy Reporting Service that the loss of light and the impact on parking had not been properly considered. Jade said: “I’m furious. We haven’t been heard and Rovers have been pretty appalling throughout this process. There’s lots of things that the report has made assumptions on, which have made them come out with a better view on the light. “It’s fine if people park legally but the majority of people, particularly around match day, don’t park legally." Hannah added: “I don’t agree that the effects on residents are minor. I have no trust in the club moving forward at all. The structure is just incredibly large and the visual impact is huge and it’s changed the way the street looks and feels” Green Party ward Cllr Emma Edwards said: “I am happy for the club and the fans at this decision, especially the increase in capacity for disabled supporters and improved accessibility the new stand will provide. “However, while there are clear benefits, as a ward councillor my primary job is to represent residents, some of whom have been treated appallingly throughout this process and whose valid frustrations have been used to score cheap political points."

A Remembrance Service at The Memorial Stadium was attended by players and staff from Bristol Rovers and Bristol Rovers Community Trust as well as other sporting organisations including Bristol Bears and Bristol City. Photo: Bristol Rovers

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December, 2023

n SHOPPING

Spelling out the season at Glos Rd Central SHOPS and busineses are gearing up for Christmas at Glos Rd Central. The buzz has already started with the North Bristol Art Trail (Nov 25-26) and many of the artists on the trail continue to sell their artwork at Room 212 year round. Also, there's a fabulous competition, dreamed up by Alice Darley, creator of the Shop Local Gloucester Road Facebook group. Alice photographed shop signs and put letters from the business names together as an alphabet. Spot which business names the letters and icons come from, then follow the Facebook group for further instructions on how to apply and win the range of brilliant prizes, including gift vouchers for you to spend on our favorite high street! Catch the Moment is working on some fantastic gifts which will include the design. Deadline is December 5. Our Christmas Late Opening Party, Thursday December 7, (5.30 - 8pm) is when the festive season really kicks off. This is a great chance to meet up with

friends, neighbours and family and browse the lovely things our shops have got in store for Christmas. All our art shops and galleries show work by local artists so this is a great way to support them and buy really unusual one-of-a-kind gifts. Paper Plane will have their usual paper snowflake making and the winner of the Gloucester Road Alphabet competition will be announced outside Room 212 at 6.30pm. Jojo's Beauty will be giving hand and arm massages and a giveaway Neal's Yard skincare goodie pouch, while keeping the kids amused with balloon (bio

degradable) face decorating. Next door, Nola Interiors will have prosecco and mince pies to enjoy whilst browsing their gorgeous gifts and decorations. Osna Therapy will be celebrating their move into a new premises, 222 Gloucester Road, with delicious mulled wine - including lots of brandy! Sidney and Eden will also be serving mulled wine, cider and spiced apple. Oddsox will be offering their usual fabulous footwear for kids and adults with 50% off all slippers and boots. The Food Shop will be setting up a stall outside Gloucester Road Books, who are planning some 'meet the author' sessions. Catch the Moment are still riding the positivity wave they created with their successful Greentember campaign and will be launching their latest new lines. If you're feeling peckish, Gopal's Curry Shack will be serving their delicious curries, alongside a Bishopton Preserves stall, outside Pawsons while Giles' Butchers will have their usual

barbecue. Joes Bakery will be offering tasters of their fantastic Christmas specials and treats. Perfecto will give 10% discount on every sale - including bags of coffee and coffee machines as well as hot drinks and food. New bubble tea shop Mooboo will and join us outside Shoe Express, offering discounts on their bubble teas. Billie Jean's Cashmere Event will be popping up outside Bristol Furniture Works. Its always great to welcome Billie and John back onto Gloucester Road! Rambling Rose will have Christmas wreaths and other seasonal plants and Rollquick will be demonstrating all their great bikes and cycle accessories. For the first time Boston Tea Party are going to join in the fun with a Christmas Market of craft, gifts and children's stalls, including Bobby and Bee kids craft. All in all this promises to be a magical event and a great way to help you shop local with Glos Rd Central! Follow us on Facebook Glosrdcentral for more details.

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December, 2023

n NEWS

Sites identified for 35,000 homes by 2040 COUNCILLORS have approved a major housing blueprint for Bristol with plans for nearly 35,000 new homes by 2040. The draft Local Plan will go out to public consultation this month with a range of policies to guide how and where property developers build new housing in the city. New housing developments will be mostly on brownfield urban sites, rather than countryside areas. Lockleaze is the largest site allocation in the north, with about 1,200 more homes planned. Specific sites across the city have been allocated for smaller developments, which the authority hopes

ASHLEY Land at Cheltenham Road / Bath Buildings, Montpelier Site description: The site is currently in use as a car-repair garage. Site area: 0.1 hectares Proposed allocation: Housing, which may incorporate compatible workspace, if no longer required in its current use. Estimated capacity of 20 homes. Land to the rear of 64-68 Stokes Croft, St Pauls Site description: The site is currently used as a garage and for parking. Site area: 0.04 hectares Proposed allocation: Housing, or housing-led mixed use with flexible workspace, if no longer required in its current use. Estimated capacity of eight to 10 homes. Lakota Nightclub / Former Coroner’s Court, Upper York Street / Backfields Site description: The site is currently used as a leisure venue. Site area: 0.25 hectares Proposed allocation: Housing. Estimated capacity of 60 homes. Land at Wilder Street / Argyle Road Site description: The partially developed site comprises commercial premises and parking. Site area: 0.29 hectares Proposed allocation: Housing/Offices/ Workspace. Estimated capacity of 30 homes. Land at Dove Lane / Ervine Terrace / Wilson Place / Cheapside Site description: The site is cleared land last used for industry. Site area: 1.59 hectares Proposed allocation: Housing/Office/ Workspace/Community Facilities. Estimated capacity of 250 homes. F C Hammonds, 13-17 Dove Lane Site description: The site comprises a small commercial premises. Site area: 0.03 hectares Proposed allocation: Housing/offices. Estimated capacity of five homes. 109-119 Newfoundland Road Site description: The site is cleared land last occupied by commercial premises. Site area: 0.08 hectares Proposed allocation: Offices/Workspace/ Culture and Tourism. BISHOPSTON AND ASHLEY DOWN Land at Gloucester Road / Merton Road, Horfield Site description: The site is currently a mix of leisure uses and workspace.

will result in buildders submitting planning applications and securing the land. Some are vacant but others are in use by businesses. Councillors sought to find a balance between finding enough land to build enough homes that Bristol needs, while also protecting the local environment. A cross-party working group took four years to draft the plan, which was voted on during a full council meeting on October 31. After a six-week public consultation, the plan will be sent to government planning inspectors to check its evidence. During the council meeting, Bristol

Site area: 1.2 hectares Proposed allocation: Comprehensive development for residential-led mixed uses, which incorporates flexible workspace and community uses, if no longer required in its current use. Estimated capacity of 100 homes. This is likely to be a maximum as it is proposed to provide a mix of uses. CLIFTON 2-16 Clifton Down Road, Clifton Site description: The site is a cleared, previously vacant retail parade. Site area: 0.1 hectares Proposed allocation: Mixed use with active ground floor uses including retail, and offices and / or residential uses on upper floors. Estimated capacity of 10 homes. CLIFTON DOWN Land west of Hampton Lane, Cotham Site description: The land is currently characterised as an underused backland, with parking/yards, garages and other small outbuildings. Site area: 0.3 hectares Proposed allocation: Housing, which may incorporate compatible workspace, if no longer required in its current use. Estimated capacity of up to 10 homes. Land at Whiteladies Gate, Cotham Site description: Land is currently in use as a builders’ merchant yard. Site area: 0.2 hectares Proposed allocation: Housing, which may incorporate compatible workspace, if no longer required in its current use. Estimated capacity of 10 homes. Land adjacent to Alma Vale Road and Alma Court, Clifton Site description: Land is currently in use for car parking. Site area: 0.1 hectares Proposed allocation: Housing, if no longer required in its current use. Estimated capacity of 10 homes. Barley House, Oakfield Grove, Clifton Site description: Land is currently in use as offices. Site area: 0.1 hectares Proposed allocation: Housing, which may incorporate compatible workspace. Estimated capacity of 20 homes, subject to the suitability of converting the listed building. COTHAM Land at Gibson Road, Cotham Site description: Land is currently in use as garages and former outbuildings.

mayor Marvin Rees said: “We got 42 square miles, we’re not getting any more land, we’re 472,000 people and one of the fastest growing cities outside London. Our population is predicted to be 550,000 by 2050. There are over 20,000 households on our waiting list and 1,300 households in temporary accommodation. “This Local Plan offers us a blueprint for the city’s future. It will be used to guide decisions on planning applications. At the heart of the plan is the drive to deliver 34,650 new homes by 2040. It’s been an incredibly challenging piece of work.”

Site area: 0.6 hectares Proposed allocation: Housing, if no longer required in its current use. Estimated capacity of 10 homes. Land at Sydenham Lane, Cotham Site description: Land is currently in use as garages and former outbuildings. Site area: 0.3 hectares Proposed allocation: Housing, if no longer required in its current use. Estimated capacity of 10 homes.

Proposed allocation: Housing, which may incorporate compatible workspace, if no longer required in its current use. Estimated capacity of 10 homes. Land at Cossins Road, Redland Site description: Land is currently in use as garaging and car parking. Site area: 0.1 hectares Proposed allocation: Housing, if no longer required in its current use. Estimated capacity of 10-12 homes.

HORFIELD 3 Kelston Road, Horfield Site description: The site is currently in use as a builders merchant. Site area: 0.5 hectares Proposed allocation: Housing, which may incorporate compatible workspace, if no longer required in its current use. Estimated capacity of 25 homes. 272-276 and 290-298 Southmead Rd Site description: The site is currently in use as a car and van hire company and vehicular sales. Site area: 0.1 hectares Proposed allocation: Housing, which may incorporate compatible workspace, if no longer required in its current use. Estimated capacity of 10 homes. BT Depot, Filton Road, Horfield Site description: The site is currently used as a service depot. Site area: 1.9 hectares Proposed allocation: Housing. Estimated capacity of 60 homes.

SOUTHMEAD Land at Lanercost Road, Southmead Site description: The land is currently undeveloped and adjacent to a new development of homes. Site area: 0.5 hectares Proposed allocation: Housing and/or housing for older people. Estimated capacity of 35 homes. Works at Felstead Road, Southmead Site description: The site is currently in commercial use. Site area: 0.3 hectares Proposed allocation: Housing-led mixed uses with flexible workspace, if no longer required in its current use. Estimated capacity of 10 homes. 19-21 Pen Park Road, Southmead Site description: The site is currently in commercial use. Site area: 0.2 hectares Proposed allocation: Housing/Business. Estimated capacity of 15 homes.

LOCKLEAZE Bridge Farm, Land at South Hayes, Eastville Site description: The site is mainly undeveloped land with a vacant complex of former farm buildings. Site area: 1.7 hectares Proposed allocation: Self-build, custom house building or community-led housing, with open space. Estimated capacity of 15 homes (including adaptive re-use of the buildings). The estimated capacity is subject to achieving sensitive design which respects heritage considerations. Any proposal is required to be supported by a landscape and visual impact assessment and a heritage statement. REDLAND Land south of Zetland Road, Redland Site description: Land is currently in use as a garage and car-parking. Site area: 0.2 hectares

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STOKE BISHOP WARD Land at Sanctuary Gdns, Sneyd Park Site description: The site is currently vacant and was formerly occupied by pre-cast reinforced concrete housing. Site area: 0.5 hectares Proposed allocation: Housing. Estimated capacity of 20 homes. WESTBURY-ON-TRYM & HENLEAZE Former St Ursula’s High School, Brecon Road Site description: The site is vacant. Site area: 0.8 hectares Proposed allocation: The site would be appropriate for residential uses. Estimated capacity of 35 homes, subj to suitability of converting listed building. Coombe House Elderly Persons’ Home, Westbury-on-Trym Site description: The site comprises cleared land last used as an elderly persons’ home. Site area: 0.3 hectares Proposed allocation: Housing. Estimated capacity of 15 homes.

bishopstonvoice

December, 2023

n NEWS

The difference between life and death A POTENTIALLY life-saving bleed control kit has been installed outside the Applegreen petrol station on Gloucester Road in partnership with Avon and Somerset Police, NHS England South West and HeartSafe. The bleed kit, which is designed to control bleeding after someone suffers a traumatic injury, is one of 144 which are being installed on the side of existing HeartSafe defibrillators across Avon and Somerset. The installation marked the start of Operation Sceptre, a national week of action for police forces across the UK to come together and raise awareness of operational activity to tackle, disrupt and prevent knife crime and the tragic effects it brings. The kits include trauma dressings and tourniquets to help manage bleeds as well as nitrile gloves, scissors, and a colourcoded instruction guide on what to use depending on where the injury is. They are deigned to be

Knife crime lead, Chief Inspector Mike Vass, with local officers and the Deputy Police and Crime Commissioner, Claire Hiscott, at the installation of the bleed kit at Applegreen garage in Gloucester Road easy-to-use and will be instantly accessible in an emergency. People should always call 999 and ask for an ambulance in an emergency, but these kits are designed to help in the moments immediately after a medical emergency until an ambulance or first responder arrives on scene.

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Avon and Somerset Force Lead for Knife Crime, Chief Inspector Mike Vass, said: “We know we cannot police our way out of serious violence, it has to be a partnership approach, not just between us and our partners in health and social care, but also with members of our communities who can play a key part in helping us. “We employ a number of different tactics to deal with knife crime and prevent it at the source but in the unfortunate event that a person is seriously injured, we hope that these kits will go some way to preventing the tragic loss of life we’ve been seeing in our communities.” Members of Avon and Somerset Police, HeartSafe, local councillors, and partners from the local Violence Reduction Partnership gathered today to see the new kit installed and raise awareness within the local community. Deputy Police and Crime Commissioner Claire Hiscott said: “We are all too aware of the consequences and impact knife crime can have on individuals, their families, and our communities. “There is a huge amount of fantastic work happening across Avon and Somerset to tackle

knife crime and its causes. The Violence Reduction Units and partners are offering prevention advice, mentoring, sports-based activities, as well as programmes to keep young people in education. “Alongside community prevention initiatives I am so glad to see and support the availability of bleed kits. These kits mean early access to vital treatment which saves lives.” The installation complements ongoing work being carried out by the police to tackle knife crime, with multiple weapon surrender bins installed across the region encouraging young people to safely discard of knives or weapons, as well as a number of educational workshops in secondary schools on the dangers of carrying a knife. If you are concerned about someone you know carrying a knife, you can report it to Avon and Somerset Police by calling 101 or via their online form. Alternatively, you can also give information 100% anonymously via Crimestoppers, either online of by calling 0800 555 111. You can find out more about the community bleed kits being rolled out across Avon and Somerset by visiting www. heartsafe.org.uk/bleed-kit-map.

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December, 2023

n FROM YOUR COUNCILLORS In Redland this month... Changes to some recycling and bin collection days To make rounds more reliable and even out the workload after new developments across the city some changes are planned by Bristol Waste. These will affect a few streets across the ward, just over 500 addresses getting a new collection day and a handful moving from weekly bins and recycling to weekly recycling and fortnightly bins, in line with the norm of the city. Quite a few changes are near the north of Redland Rd. Letters should have been delivered to affected addresses. If you’re affected by the change to your collection day of the week please think about reminding others in your street. If your black wheelie bin collection [residual waste] is moving to a fortnightly service from a weekly collection then for a limited period, until December 13th only, you can get new recycling boxes delivered for free if you order them. This should be explained in a letter to affected addresses. Around 40% of what is in typical back bins can be recycled according to local waste analysis, so extra recycling boxes could save valuable materials and help deal with the switch.

scheme is still complicated with issues around liability, maintenance and the integrity of the materials of the pavements to consider. We’re hoping there can be a public scrutiny discussion next year on how to accelerate EV support including roadside infrastructure to coordinate things better across the council and potentially simplify solutions. As always funding will be a factor. Bishop Rd traffic We’ve reported before how we’re talking to Bishop Rd school, the police, and local residents about traffic problems around the school on this busy route. We’re glad to say the Council's enforcement team have agreed to work with local PCSOs to tackle dangerous car use and parking at pick up and drop off times at Bishop Road school. Fi and Martin are still pressing for the school streets scheme that we have been promised, though this would only be for some streets north of Bishop Rd. However, in the meantime, some monitoring and patrols may help reduce some of the problems that local residents and school users have been reporting. Anti-social behaviour by Gloucester Rd/Elton Rd junction We’ve been able to get Council officers to take part in a walkabout with police on this part of the Gloucester Road by the Sainsbury’s corner to assess the situation and see what can be done to improve matters in the area. Residents continue to raise concerns with us over threatening behaviour and we have recently talked to the manager of the supermarket who has agreed to get involved. We’d like to see flytipping managed

Electric Vehicle charging We often get requests for action on EV charging facilities for those without driveways. We’ve been trying to get more done to help. There are some options in the pipeline for charging but support for a way to get safe cable gulleys added across pavements to tuck away cables [but not affect those with mobility issues] is not yet resolved. In theory it could be a bit like asking for a driveway but any

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Planning applications Our ward doesn’t have a great deal of new development as large sites aren’t common but several proposals are affecting local residents. Martin has been offering support for residents affected by the third successive proposal for the site at 102 Gloucester Rd – the former NEG site on Berkeley Rd. After originally gaining planning permission for mixed uses including nine flats, then another recent permission for mixed uses and seventeen flats, a new proposal has been lodged now proposing ground floor mixed uses plus nine Houses in Multiple Occupancy comprising fifty-seven bedrooms. It’s not uncommon for a developer to make multiple applications for the same site, even when they already have permission for development. Another proposal is at former Nat West site at 72-74 Gloucester Rd, by Shadwell Rd where residents are concerned about a 9 unit aparthotel development. There are still very long delays for such applications even to be allocated a case officer to handle the planning proposals and help advise us or negotiate with applicants. Do contact us if you’ve any queries relating to the ward. Cranbrook Rd crossing We’re sorry to say getting the promised crossing built here with funds we secured has been an inordinately long saga – in

common with most local highway schemes across the city. The legal Traffic Regulation Order for changes to highway rules is now completed, so officers are now working on the details to submit to a contractor for construction of the traffic island crossing. Due to serious cost inflation the council is trying to secure a new list of contractors and agree realistic prices but for now the department has agreed to absorb some escalated costs so we’re relieved to say the project should be ok. They are working on getting the scheme ready for delivery although we regret a construction timeline can’t be promised yet. Potholes and drains With bad weather upon us we’re getting more reports of blocked drains and autumn leaves. Please do North remember to report Bristol Artiststhese meetvia theat BCC website at to https://www. Future Leap prepare bristol.gov.uk/residents/streetsfor the 2023 trail travel/report-a-street-issue. Bristol Waste can also assist groups who are able to do litter or leaf picking to keep their streets clear so do see if you can work with neighbours to help. If you haven’t already done so please remember to cut back overgrown hedges to your boundary to help keep pavements clear, too. Fi Hance and Martin Fodor, Green Party Councillors Contacts: Fi: Cllr.fi.hance@bristol.gov.uk. 0117 3534720 Martin: Cllr.martin.fodor@bristol. gov.uk. 0788 4736101 Facebook.com/cllrmartin.fodor or / cllrfi.hance

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WASTE COLLECTION DAYS CHANGE OVER CHRISTMAS We will work three Saturdays to get collections back to normal as quickly as possible. Check when we will be coming to you on the calendar below.

Your usual collection day Mon 25 Dec Tue 26 Dec Wed 27 Dec Thur 28 Dec Fri 29 Dec Mon 1 Jan Tue 2 Jan Wed 3 Jan Thur 4 Jan Fri 5 Jan Mon 8 Jan Tue 9 Jan Wed 10 Jan Thur 11 Jan Fri 12 Jan

Revised collection day Wed 27 Dec Thur 28 Dec Fri 29 Dec

Christmas trees Put your tree out with your first wheelie bin collection from Monday 15 January. You can also take trees to your nearest recycling centre – book before visiting at recyclingcentrebooking.bristol.gov.uk

Sat 30 Dec Tue 2 Jan

2024 collection dates

Wed 3 Jan

Download your 2024 collection calendar from bristolwastecompany.co.uk/festive

Thur 4 Jan Fri 5 Jan Sat 6 Jan

Garden and bulky waste

Mon 8 Jan

Don’t forget, garden and bulky waste services pause over the Christmas period.

Tue 9 Jan Wed 10 Jan Thur 11 Jan

For top tips and festive hacks visit: bristolwastecompany.co.uk/festive

Fri 12 Jan Sat 13 Jan

Normal collections from Mon 15 Jan

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bishopstonvoice

December, 2023

n NEWS FROM OUR MP Voting for peace in Israel and Palestine I voted in the House of Commons on 15th November on amendments to the King’s Speech that addressed the concerning situation in Israel and Gaza. You can read the full text of Labour’s amendment below. The recent events and conflict in Israel and Palestine are horrifying and have a backdrop going back centuries. Hamas’ barbaric terrorist attack on 7th October killed the highest number of Jews in a single day since the Holocaust. Over 200 Israelis are still being held hostage somewhere by Hamas. More than ten thousand people in Gaza have been killed, including thousands of children. Gaza’s people are in the midst of a humanitarian catastrophe on an unimaginable scale. All of this death and destruction is devastating. That is why, I voted for an end to the violence and for humanitarian pauses as a necessary step towards an enduring cessation of fighting as soon as possible.

The Renters Reform Bill returned to the Commons After four years of the government dragging its feet, I welcomed the long-awaited Second Reading of the Renters Reform Bill in late October. Many people from Bristol have written to me about how they have been affected by the rental crisis. Labour supports fundamental reform of the private rented sector and has called for this for many years. I am disappointed that the Bill doesn’t go far enough. The new grounds for and protections from evictions are a welcome step, but the details remain vague. The most glaring gap is the delay in a ban to no-fault evictions. I was disappointed that Rishi Sunak has suggested that the promised ban on Section 21 eviction will be delayed until reforms to the judicial system are completed. Despite its faults and gaps, the Renters (Reform) Bill is an important step forward, supporting renters facing the cost-of-living crisis, so Labour will

engage constructively throughout its remaining stages. Work on plans for a Citizens Assembly on Culture for the West Country Recently, I met representatives from some of Bristol’s most treasured cultural institutions – Emma Harvey from Trinity Arts Centre, LaToyah Jackson from St Paul’s Carnival and David Jubbs from Citizens in Power. We had a wonderful discussion about their plans to develop a to develop a Citizens Assembly for Culture for the West region. They will be working with WECA (West of England Combined Authority) to launch the Assembly in 2024. They informed me about the in-depth research, engagement with cultural and community stakeholders they have done to inform how the Assembly will work. One of my roles as the next Culture Secretary under a Labour government will be to pose the question – where are the women, the people of colour and working class people. A Citizens Assembly

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bishopstonvoice

December, 2023

n NATURE WATCH with Dawn Lawrence

Have yourself a wild and lovely Christmas On the First Day of Christmas… Look out for a Christmas robin. Both he and she sing through the winter, each holding a private territory and refusing to attend seasonal parties. Sometimes they will sing a subsong (a muted version) often from the depths of a bush or to thank you for turning over the compost. On a clear night listen for their territorial proclamation - loud and melodic with crystalline notes. On the Second Day of Christmas… Try some urban botany. The lovely slurry that was spread onto our pavements has acted as top dressing and the plants are flourishing (I imagine this was not the intended effect). You could join a New Year Plant Hunt (check Bristol Naturalists’ Society website) and see if you can help break the national record of 120 species found in flower, set in Swanage in 2019. Only wild plants are counted, though garden escapes are included. On the Third Day of Christmas… When you have done enough looking down, or if you have yet to get used to your new varifocals, look up at the trees. At this time of year the branches can be adorned with birds like decorations on a Christmas tree; a mingling of magpies, a squabbling of starlings or maybe the simple gilding of a charm of goldfinches. Unlike the robins a lot of species prefer to socialise at this time of year so keep an eye out for treetop flocks. On the Fourth Day of Christmas… Keep looking at trees - can you tell what species they are without the leaves? The outline, the branching pattern, the arrangement of the twigs, the colour and shape of the buds and the details of the bark are all helpful. Does the bark spiral up the trunk - probably a sweet chestnut; are the buds asymmetrical with a purple tone, alder would be my guess. No cheating and looking at the fallen leaves underneath! On the Windiest Day of Christmas… Look out and listen. As the trees thrash you may be lucky enough to see a stormcock singing from the highest branch. This wonderful old name for the

thing). On the Ninth Day of Christmas… Look for animal signs. A low-slung badger sliding down a bank rubs the ground smooth with regular use. But the quick brown fox jumps the bank in one and creates a narrow path, picking its way around tufts of grass and thorns. Look out for poo (more fun than you might think); fox poo ends in a twist whilst a dark poo in a little hole is a badger marking territory. Check thorns and wire fences for stripey badger hairs and look out for feathers. If you find dry scaly deposits with bones in them they might be owl pellets. The robin is the bird of the season

Photo: Flappy Pigeon

Bonnet mushrooms (Mycena olida) on a mossy branch Photo: Rupert Higgins mistle thrush (avid consumer of seasonal berries) celebrates his habit of singing wildly into a gale in apparent defiance of wind and rain, as if his message is too important to wait. Not to be missed. On the Sixth Day of Christmas… Look for moss gardens. Peer into these lush miniature habitats on trees, walls and shady ground and find all manner of living things. Tiny fungi rise on slender stems; lichens elbow for space in slo-mo competition; beetles, aphids and (on a microscopic scale) water bears are traipsing, waddling and swimming through the mossforest. Use a microscope, hand lens or upside down binoculars to help. On the Sunniest day of Christmas… Spot the insects. Red admirals will break hibernation for a few hours of sunlight. In our increasingly erratic climate you

might see a queen bee fooled into emerging early (or perhaps she is the last bee of the old year). Tiny gnats twinkle in the slanting sun and a close examination of rough twigs will turn up the aphids and grubs that the blue tits and great tits are taking as they pass through your garden. On the Eighth Day of Christmas… See the sun rise. As someone who should really have been named Dusk I recommend a winter dawn as you don’t even have to get up very early. Find a spot with a view to the east (such as the peregrine viewing point on the Downs) and listen to the world waking up. Birds begin to forage, a goat in the Gully strikes a dramatic pose, the clouds gather and part and perhaps a fog lifts from the river. Or simply watch from your own window and see what bird is your #FirstBirdOfTheDay (a Twitter/X

Got news? Email: news@bishopstonvoice.co.uk

On the Tenth Day of Christmas… Admire dew-lit cobwebs. Dew and frost highlight them beautifully and orb webs, the classic Hallowe’en icon, and hammock webs, slung casually amongst the orbs are two of the easiest types to find. Details show up well and provide useful clues. The missing sector orb weaver is one of the easiest to identify – that’s not a broken web, that’s a deliberate gap . On the Snowiest Day of Christmas… Check for footprints. Both fox and dog have four toes but foxes have a narrow foot making an oval print whilst dogs’ feet are broader leaving a rounded print. If the print is longer than 5cm it is most likely dog (but if there are no claw marks on a smaller print that will be a cat). Deer are not unknown in the city (two wide pointed toes together – the cloven hoof ). In the absence of snow check out fresh mud, maybe even create a smooth patch in your garden. On the Twelfth Day of Christmas… Search for waxwings. These are the bon vivants of the bird world; dressed up in flashy plumage with flamboyant crests these large finches go around in noisy parties. They breed in Scandinavia and points east and sometimes arrive in large numbers to over-winter in Britain. This is such a year. They are exceedingly fond of rowans so track down some still hung with orange berries (or, more rarely, pale pink ones) and stake them out. If you see any please let me know! A Wildly Happy New Year to you all.

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bishopstonvoice

December, 2023

n NEWS

Don’t shut our ‘vital’ pharmacy, plead residents HUNDREDS of people have joined a campaign urging Boots not to shut its pharmacy in Southmead Road. They say news of the proposed closure in mid-January has come as a blow to the local community, which was not consulted. An online petition has been set up urging Boots to think again about the branch, which serves parts of Horfield, Henleaze, Southmead and Westbury on Trym. Within a week, it had collected more than 500 signatures and won support from a number of councillors. The petition says that the shop at 37 Southmead Road is “a very busy, well used and wellloved” pharmacy that has served the community for many years. One campaigner, Neil Goldsmith, said: “It is always full of customers, particularly accessing the pharmacy for both prescription medicines and advice, as well as buying the retail staples ranging from shampoo to vitamins. “The branch is particularly important for those in the local community who have no means of transport and a significant proportion of the customers walk to the branch as it is surrounded by residential streets. “The staff at the branch know many patients by name, know their circumstances, and also provide support for some of the more vulnerable of our community.” The alternative suggested by Boots, its branch in Henleaze Road, was not a walkable distance and was in any case also very busy so would not have capacity to take on the additional demand, Mr Goldsmith said. Southmead Councillor Brenda

Massey said: “I would be very sorry to see the pharmacy close. Many of the residents who use it may well not have any means of transport to a different site, and will now be extremely concerned about how they can collect potentially life-saving medicines without an accessible chemist close to them. “I do hope that Boots will reconsider their decision and potentially hold a public meeting where they can listen to the public comments” Henleaze & Westbury on Trym Councillor Steve Smith, who chairs Bristol City Council’s Health Overview & Scrutiny Commission, is also against this closure. “At this time when general practice and community healthcare is so stretched, the local pharmacy is an increasingly important part of our healthcare. Many residents in my ward rely upon this branch, and I join them in urging Boots to reconsider its closure,” he said. Councillors Philippa Hulme and Tom Renhard, Horfield Ward, commented: “There is no other pharmacy in this area for the residents to use. Horfield residents have contacted us to say how devastated they are that Boots has decided to close the branch. We know this is a wellused and loved branch, which is providing a vital community need to many.” Councillor Hulme added: “I am also a customer of this branch myself so as well as supporting my constituents concerns it will impact directly on me too.” Boots is shutting about 300 pharmacies across the country as the company ”evolves its estate”. It says staff will be moved to other branches.

To advertise your business email Emma at

emma@bishopstonvoice.co.uk To advertise, contact Emma on 0117 9082121 or 07715 770448 or email emma@bishopstonvoice.co.uk.

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bishopstonvoice

December, 2023

n ADVERTISING FEATURE

Feel-good feasting with The Community Farm IF you’re looking to support local businesses whilst tucking into top notch, organic produce this Christmas-time, make sure you buy everything you need for your festive feasting from The Community Farm. From bumper veg boxes to organic meat boxes with all the trimmings; to delicious nut roasts and carefully selected cheeses, they’ve got you covered. You and your loved ones can tuck into nourishing, organic produce safe in the knowledge that you’ll also be supporting their mission to grow healthy food of the highest quality, whilst continuing to care for our environment and communities. They’ve also got some incredible charity projects that they’re supporting this year. Once again they’ll be joining forces with Caring in Bristol, to feed people who are vulnerable throughout the Christmas week. When you buy your food from them, you’ll have the opportunity to add gift vouchers which provide two meals for people who are homeless. Or you can buy a Christmas veg box with an added donation. Last year their customers’ generosity meant that they were able to send

£1,200 worth of fresh veggies, 19 halal beef joints and £300 in cash to the project. This contributed towards 660 breakfasts, 1,050 served lunches and 525 delivered meals for people experiencing homelessness. They’re determined to do even better this year! They’ll also be delivering boxes full of organic produce, all sourced from their network of local farmers and producers, to around 200 families in need in Bristol, funded by Holiday Activities and Food Programme, department for education. The families have been identified by Bristol Council’s Families in Focus who, along with the family’s support workers, will be delivering the Holiday Hampers as part of their visit to families in the week running up to Christmas day. Now that’s something to celebrate! The Community Farm is an organic farm that grows, sources and delivers climate-friendly food across the local area. They are community-owned and not-forprofit. Find out more at thecommunityfarm.co.uk

n NEWS Craft event SEVEN Bristol artists & makers are joining forces to host Festive Shopping Evening in Bishopston. The free event at Kiln Workshop in North Road will take place on Wednesday 6 December from 6 - 9pm. Taking part are: Elin Horgan: Handmade jewellery in recycled silver & gold, www.elinhorgan.com/ Mandy Sutcliffe: Cards & prints inspired by childhood https://mandysutcliffe.bigcartel.com/

Leather Needle Thread: Modern leather craft kits & workshops www.leatherneedlethread.com/

Macrame Emma: Macrame plant hangers & kits https://macrameemma.co.uk/

Hello Cleo: Slow fashion & accessories https://www.instagram. com/hellocleouk/

Izzy Mae Makes: Small batch handmade pottery www.instagram. com/izzymaemakes/?hl=en;

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have yourself a local, organic Christmas Get top-notch organic produce delivered to your door this festive season from less than 15 miles away

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bishopstonvoice

December, 2023

n ADVERTISING FEATURE

Deferred Consideration in SME Corporate Transactions

When advising a purchaser on a share or asset

E: news@bishopstonvoice.co.uk July, 2014 purchase, a key consideration is what the purchase price should look like, how it should

Risk management: follow us on Twitter @bishopstonvoice 23 bishopstonvoice bishopston voice Deferring part of the purchase price offers

some protection against the sellers being be paid and whether it is contingent on certain unable to pay any warranty or indemnity claims Advertising Feature events after completion. For a seller, the best arising under the acquisition agreement. The

position would be for the whole purchase buyer’s position can be further strengthened price to be paid on completion with no part by including an express right to set off claims being contingent on future performance. against the balance of deferred consideration. Deferred consideration is an umbrella term for any payments that are scheduled to be RISKS FOR A SELLER made after completion (when the assets or The main risk of deferred consideration for shares of a business are sold). This can be (a) sellers is that the buyer may not have the funds a fixed amount payable by instalments or (b) to pay the instalments when they become due. will be. to However a Will can be for the distribution of the estate, members of the Society of Trust an uncertain amount subject an earn-out This could devastating forand sellers to provide that a gift of and be the aestate can then position be Estate Practitioners, the formula based on futureworded performance. of SMEs,divided particularly the sale of a business is professional body in 10 % of the value of your estate as if theas Will had been leading How the purchase price is structured is a at that time is given to a charity in these strategy. terms. A Deed of this field. We offer a free initial usually made a retirement matter for negotiation and the party withchoice. the TheSellersVariation or charities of your could therefore consultation for new clients. of a business can provide try to negotiate This could be a charge over property, shares or better bargaining strength likely control effectwill of this will be that the rate that 10 % of the estate is to the passrisk of nonFor advice on administration contractual protections against a key item of equipment. On enforcement, a of Inheritance Tax payable on the to a chosen charity or charities, the terms. estates, trusts, wills, powers payment of any deferred consideration.ofThese charge entitles the holder to be paid from the whole estate is reduced from 40 making the estate as a whole of attorney and all private client can include: to 36 %. eligible for the reduced rate of saleShelley proceeds of the charged assets ahead of issues, contact Faulkner, BENEFITS FOR A % BUYER In same circumstances, it Inheritance Tax. unsecured of the same debtor. Florence Pearce and thecreditors other The key benefits ofhasutilising deferred been calculated that this Guarantees: members of the team on 0117 Although there are inherent risks for a seller, This change in the law is consideration for a buyerreduction include:in the tax bill can serve 9621205, email If the buyer is very a company, theboth sellers could it is probate@ a common for the sale of an SME business clearly good news to leave the estate, even after amdsolicitors.com or calldeferred in seek a guarantee parent company, for charities,from and its potentially for to include consideration, particularly payment of the gift to charity, at 15 The Clifton, or 100 Cash flow: some estates asowner(s). well. However or beneficial If a guarantee is Mall with a service business where the main asset is with a value as high as if the directors Henleaze Road Henleaze. By Shelley If the purchase price cangift behad structured theand detail the application canthe deferred theofbuyer fails to pay the client bank who are not tied into long term not been over made. Thusprovided be complex. For example, thehave a AMD Solicitors takes pride in multiple instalments andthe years, theinbuyer can quite gift can some cases consideration, the sellers will then contracts. Faulkner, estate is divided into different sponsoring local, Bristol based manage cash flow. If theliterally deferred payments pay for itself. remedy‘components’ to seek recovery from on a guarantor. Jack is is a Trainee Solicitor in our Whiteladies depending charities and this year very solicitor with are subject to performanceEven criteria such as ahas not where a Will Road office. To how the property will pass to pleased to be supporting thediscuss how our corporate team target, client retention or personnel been prepared in these terms, canof help with an acquisition or business sale, the benefi ciaries, in order to Bristol branch the Alzheimer’s Security over assets: AMDturnover Solicitors mayhave be possible take retention, the buyer mayit not to paytothe calculate 10 % test Society, theplease local branch of this contact us on 01179733989 or by email may wishwhether to seekthe security over certain advantage of this tax break. Sellers If full agreed price. has been met. Taking specialist national charity which works to info@amdsolicitors.com. the beneficiaries of the estateassets of the buyer and/or target company.

The gift that pays for itself

How leaving money to charity can save you Inheritance Tax

advice on the implications for WHILE most of us support agree, it is possible to effectively your particular circumstances is a number of charities in our amend the terms of a Will within therefore essential. lifetime, it is perhaps not two years of the date of death. A surprising that a smaller number AMD’s team of experienced ‘Deed of Variation’ can be drawn choose to remember a charity in up which sets out the familyBS9 4JZprivate client solicitors and 100forHenleaze Road, Henleaze their Will. Clearly the priority practitioners includes full members’ agreed arrangements most is to provide for a surviving15 The Mall, Clifton BS8 4DS spouse or children, or to ensure that the family wealth can be passed on to beneﬁt the next generation. However, government policy is clearly to encourage giving to charity, and a recent development in the law is intended to promote gifts to charity being made by Will. This change may also, on occasion, serve to save Inheritance Tax, or even to create a gift which literally pays for itself.

to improve the quality of life of people affected by dementia in Great Britain. For full details of our fundraising activities visit our website www.amdsolicitors.com. 139Copyright Whiteladies Road, Clifton BS8 2PL AMD Solicitors

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Reduced rate of Inheritance Tax

Where somebody dies after 6 April 2012 the rate of Inheritance Tax applied to the estate can be reduced from 40 % to 36 % (in other words by 10 %), provided that at least 10 % of the estate passes to charity. Clearly it is not possible to determine in advance exactly what value the assets you leave by Will will have on your death for Inheritance Tax purposes, or what 10 % of the total value

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To advertise, contact Emma on 0117 908 2121 Or 07715 770448. Got News? Call Rebecca On 07912 484405. Email: emma@bishopstonvoice.co.uk

bishopstonvoice

December, 2023

n NEWS

School celebrates Good rating from Ofsted STOKE Park Primary School in Lockleaze has been graded Good in all areas by the education watchdog Ofsted. The 237-pupil school was inspected for two days in October and was judged to be Good for quality of education, leadership and management, behaviour and attitudes, personal development, and early years provision. Safeguarding was also said to be effective. "The quality of education that pupils now receive is much stronger than is evident in the most recent published outcomes," the Ofsted report said. The two inspectors commented on how the school is aspirational for all and as a result pupils are eager to demonstrate the school’s values of ‘be kind, be proud, strive for success’. The high expectations for behaviour and the calm atmosphere across the school were recognised.

Children from Stoke Park Primary play well together, Ofsted reported and care the school provides and "Relationships are respectful the enrichment offer for their and positive ... Pupils are kind children. Inspectors praised and caring towards each other." the work carried out to develop Parents and carers were said a ‘passport’ which enables the to be “effusive” about the support

Double Sided - Cut out and keep

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children to experience a range of enrichment opportunities as they move through the school. Ofsted highlighted the “ambitious and broad curriculum” but said more needed to be done to embed some subjects. Expectations of pupils’ presentation of their work should also be raised. The school joined Cathedral Schools Trust (CST) in 2019 and shares a site in Brangwyn Grove with the trust secondary Trinity Academy. The inspectors said Stoke Park teachers appreciated working with others from across the trust. Headteacher Alison Lambert said: “We are so proud of our school community and the fact that inspectors noted our journey of improvement.” Jack Lacey, Cathedral Schools Trust’s director of primary, said: “This is a fantastic report which rightly celebrates the excellent work going on at the school.”

bishopstonvoice

n NEWS

Refurb will mean fewer changing rooms A £1.5 million plan to refurbish changing rooms on the Downs will mean that fewer rooms will be available so football teams will have to stagger kick-off times. The Downs committee, made up of Bristol councillors and Merchant Venturers, met on Monday, November 13 and agreed to press ahead with the refurbishment of the changing rooms. Football players previously described them as “atrocious”, with cold faulty showers. Labour Councillor Kye Dudd, who plays in the Downs Football League, said the new design would bring the changing rooms up to modern standards and requirements — albeit with fewer rooms than currently. He said the building could not be expanded under the plans. He said: “The hard part starts here and that’s trying to raise the funding to actually deliver the project. We’re working within the current footprint of the changing rooms and it’s within the existing structure, so all the changes will be internal. We’re redesigning the layout to bring the changing facilities up to a modern standard.

“There have been discussions around if we could go up a storey. But for the costs we’re adding into the scheme, we would never see the benefit back. The economics of it don’t really add up.” The building can’t be extended outwards due to a law protecting the Downs from new development. And building a new storey on top could be too expensive. Cllr Dudd added: “The changing rooms have to meet modern requirements in order to receive any external funding from the Football Association or other sports bodies. That does mean a reduction in the changing rooms available. We’ll probably have to have staggered kick-off times, rather than everyone kicking off at the same time. “The idea of this refurbishment is so that we can have women’s football and disabled football. You could potentially have women’s referees at the moment refereeing men’s football, but there’s nowhere for them to change. So that’s part of it as well, providing compliant changing facilities for referees.” The committee, which oversees Clifton Down and Durdham Down, is hoping to

receive up to £500,000 from the Football Foundation, the UK’s largest sports charity which is funded by the Premier League. But it’s so far unclear where the rest of the money for the refurbishment will come from. Plans to refurbish the changing rooms stretch back at least four years, and it’s still not known when work will actually begin on the ground. David Freed, a property developer and Merchant Venturer, said his firm has been working on the designs for free. He said: “Nobody has been paid, there has been no costs to the Downs committee or anybody else. All the work by my team and other professionals involved has been done pro bono, so far. “But more work needs to be done. It’s substantial, if you look at the costs on the changing rooms, by the time we’ve finished you could probably get it done for a million and a half. That’s a lot of money.” By Alex Seabrook, Local Democracy Reporting Service

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bishopstonvoice

December, 2023

n HISTORY WITH JULIAN LEA-JONES

Mystery? The plot thickens... NESTLED among the sheds and veg of Birchall and Cranbrook Road allotments is a small brick shed with these enormous pipes outside – what on earth? – is someone growing giant mushrooms or even captured Triffids? Neither, but the gardeners will never forget the day in 1986 when they were all turned off their allotments. All their hard work replaced by a massive crater which occupied the entire site and was nearly three storeys deep. But why? The answer lay in a problem that had bedevilled Bristol’s history down the centuries, and one which sadly still distresses many communities even today. Bristol, the city of hills and steep sided valleys, has many streams and rivers emptying to the River Avon and eventually to the Severn Estuary. Homes in the

Country scene on the banks of the Cran Brook before the road

The storm water tank control pipes at the Cranbrook Road allotments site valley bottoms were always prone to serious flooding, and down the centuries many were destroyed and lives lost. In the 1900s, endeavouring to reduce the cacophony of iron rimmed cart -wheels, the city laid eighteen miles of hardwood block paved roads. The junction of Cheltenham, Cranbrook and Zetland roads was one such, but in 1902 it was flooded thoroughly, soaking the wood blocks, which swelled to such an extent that they rose forming a wooden ‘bubble’ about three feet, (nearly a metre), high. But what has this to do with the allotment holders'

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distress? Beneath the junction of Gloucester and Cheltenham Roads there is a large brick chamber where the culverted waters of the stream flowing between Cranbrook and Elton Roads joins the Horfield Brook which, culverted, becomes the Cutler’s Mill Brook to continue behind Cheltenham Road before joining the River Frome, and onto the Avon. Flood plains weren’t possible in an urban environment, and the usual solution was to have holding tanks where the storm water could be stored and slowly released. By the 1980s it was realised the problem of repeated flooding required drastic action – bigger holding tanks, but where? Unfortunately for the allotment

holders, theirs was the only open space in the problem catchment area. Therefore in 1986 allotments between Birchall and Cranbrook Road were cleared enabling Bristol City Council’s Engineering department and Wessex Water to dig a colossal storm water relief tank. The tank occupies the entire allotment site and is nearly three storeys deep. Not until 1990 were the allotments re-instated so that veg and flowers could once more flourish. Nowadays, among the veg, fruit and flowers the only evidence of this engineering feat is a small water control blockhouse and these massive set of pipes which are needed to vent the rush of air when storm water fills the tanks.

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bishopstonvoice

December, 2023

n EDUCATION

'Apparelled in red' girls on parade GIRLS from Redmaids’ High in Bristol marked the founding of their school with their traditional annual procession through Bristol. Led by the school’s two head girls Maddie and Muznah, pictured right, more than 700 students aged seven to 18 marched from Welsh Back to Bristol Cathedral for a service. The day was originally called Founder's Day; a Red Maids' School tradition to celebrate its founder, John Whitson. His crypt is in St Nicholas Church and every year the school’s head girls lay a wreath on his tomb before proceeding to the cathedral. Students in the first few rows of the procession dress in traditional Red Maids’ boarder attire, a red cape and bonnet, which is a nod to Whitson, who

as a merchant imported red dye to the city and on founding the school, said that the students should be 'apparelled in red'. In 2016 following the school’s merger with Redland High, Founder's Day became Founders' Commemoration Day, and the

occasion now recognises the founders of both schools; John Whitson, Reverends T G Rose and Urijah Thomas. Alumnae, parents and members of the public line the route to watch the historic spectacle.

Head Paul Dwyer said: “I think our founders would all be incredibly proud to know that centuries later, we continue to realise their dream in offering an outstanding and forwardthinking education for girls in Bristol.”

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December, 2023

bishopstonvoice

n NEWS

Your chance to join hospice fundraiser BRISTOL'S biggest charity bike ride, Tour de Bristol, is returning to the streets on Saturday April 13, 2024. The event, in aid of St Peter’s Hospice, challenges riders to use their pedal power to raise funds to support patients and their families during the most difficult of times. Riders choose from three different routes – 40k, 65k or 100k – all starting at UWE’s Centre for Sport before heading into the Gloucestershire countryside. Or, cyclists can take on a virtual challenge by choosing a route and date that suits them. Husband and father of three, Mike Freeman from Westburyon-Trym, was cared for by the Hospice when he was diagnosed with terminal bladder cancer. His family and friends take part in the annual Tour de Bristol race in his memory as team, Bike for Mike. Jonny Freeman, one of Mike’s sons, says: “The Tribute

fund was set up in memory of our dad to support the incredibly valuable work of St Peter’s Hospice. The Hospice made an enormous difference to our dad's quality of life at a very difficult time, something we're all truly grateful for. “We’ve raised over £44,000

for the charity so far through the generosity of friends and family, and Tour de Bristol is always a highlight. There’s a great atmosphere on the ride with cyclists of all ages and abilities, the perfect opportunity to take in some west country scenery and meet a few people along the

way – I would encourage anyone thinking of signing up to go for it!" St Peter’s Hospice fundraising manager, Hayley Ali, says: “We can’t wait for another year of the Tour de Bristol! It’s the hospice’s largest event and an incredible day of fundraising, with cyclists of all ages and abilities coming together from across Bristol and beyond. We are so grateful to everyone who signs up and gets on their bike to pedal the distance and tackle the hills to support St Peter’s Hospice. All the funds raised from this event make sure we can continue being there for local patients and families like the Freemans when it’s needed most.” Tour de Bristol is sponsored by the Bristol Port Company. Join in to ride in memory of a loved one, for fun and fresh air, or to smash a personal goal. To register see: www.tourdebristol. co.uk

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bishopstonvoice

December, 2023

n MESSAGE FROM AVON & SOMERSET PCC

Watch out for festive online shopping scams AS we approach the festive season, I would like to warn local people to take extra care when shopping online. During the Black Friday and holiday sale events last year, almost £10 million was lost to criminals. One common tactic used to defraud victims is the use of fake websites that are purporting to be reputable companies. These websites are created to look identical to the real website they are imitating and will advertise items but at a much cheaper price than retail price to entice victims. In reality, these websites are fake and the victim will never receive the item they have paid for. To protect yourself from fraud and cyber crime I advise that the public follow the advice of the Take Five to Stop Fraud campaign: Stop: Taking a moment to stop

and think before parting with your money or information could keep you safe. Challenge: Could it be fake? It’s okay to reject, refuse or ignore any requests. Only criminals will try to rush or panic you. Protect: If you think you’ve been a victim of fraud, contact your bank immediately and report it to Action Fraud, online at actionfraud. police.uk or by calling 0300 123 2040. We recently marked Respect for Shopworkers Week. The purpose of the week is to support retail workers and ensure the general public understands the key message that abuse is not part of the job. I am keen to meet with shop owners and work together to help reduce retail crime in Avon and Somerset and support workers in the sector. I have convened a new national group, the E-Scooter Safety Forum,

to discuss issues around micro mobility. The first meeting was held earlier this month, and I look forward to updating you with my progress on this. The third week of November was the annual Road Safety Week. As road safety is one of the areas of focus in Priority One of my Police and Crime Plan, I’m very supportive of the work Avon and Somerset Police do in helping to reduce collisions and traffic accidents. I am a member of my local Community Speedwatch group and regularly attend meet-ups. Community Speedwatch is a national initiative where proactive members of local communities join with the support and supervision of their local police to record details of speeding vehicles using approved detection devices. Together we can help reduce speeding. Unfortunately, so far in 2023

With police and crime commissioner

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we have had 47 road deaths across Avon and Somerset. As a community we must commit to tackling the ‘Fatal Five’ actions – not wearing a seatbelt, using a phone, not paying attention, driving under the influence of drugs and alcohol, and speeding.

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bishopstonvoice

December, 2023

n NEWS

Investing in 'good people who get good stuff done' A CHARITY is planning to refurbish and take control over an enterprise centre in St Pauls after a community asset transfer. Bristol City Council will transfer the running of the Coach House, on Upper York Street, to the Black South West Network who are planning a huge expansion. BSWN has leased the building from the council since May 2021 and uses it to provide workspace and business support to black, Asian and ethnic minority communities. The charity was praised by council bosses as a “leading light” throughout the country. The cabinet signed off plans for the community asset transfer on November 7. Speaking at the meeting, Kalpna Woolf, former head of production at the BBC and the founder of two local initiatives aiming to “empower communities and deliver inclusion”, said that the Coach House plans would benefit many people across Bristol. She said: “As a BAME leader, having a collaborative, supportive space where we can meet, develop our teams and the skills

in our communities is critical — where the unique challenges we face are understood and particularly a space where our mission and vision align. There is nothing in the city which provides this and which feels inviting and inclusive. “The Coach House has already begun to achieve so much. It is an exciting hub where innovation and ideas thrive. The expansion of the Coach House can be this space for more people and will for certain

transform more lives, building much needed economic strength through exposure to successful role models, training, mentorship, enterprise and support.” Labour Councillor Asher Craig, cabinet member for education, said: “As a black leader here in this city, I stand really proud today witnessing something that I’ve dreamt about for nearly 40 years. BSWN is a black-led organisation that epitomises black excellence and is considered a leading light not only here in this city but across the UK and beyond.” Bristol mayor Marvin Rees added: “We’ve talked about being a development organisation, that means that we aren’t just a collection of services. Part of our job is to find good people who want to get good stuff done, and invest in them and allow them to lead. It disperses that sovereignty and leadership across the city, outside of this organisation.” By Alex Seabrook, Local Democracy Reporting Service

Winter water health check Don’t get caught out by the cold this winter – follow our top tips to stay warm and leak free. 1. Protect exposed pipes Wrap them up with lagging. If they freeze they could burst and leak. 2. Check your outdoor taps Look for drips (these can cause frozen pipes). Wrap them up too. 3. Find your stop tap You’ll be able to turn the water off quicker in an emergency.

4. Look after your boiler Check your boiler is serviced so it’s fighting fit to keep you warm all winter. 5. Going away? Don’t forget to keep your heating on low (min 14ºC), to help stop your pipes from freezing while you’re away.

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bishopstonvoice

December, 2023

n VINEYARD NEWS with INGRID BATES

Look out for release of our new bubbly THE slower autumn months are a welcome relief from the busy summer growing period. In the winery our recently pressed wines should be coming to the end of their first fermentation. They won't be ready for bottling until next March or April but so far things are looking good. In the vineyard we've been busy removing the nets we put up in September to protect the red grapes from the hungry birds. Removing them is quite a nice job and allows time to reflect and ponder how the summer went and what we might do differently next year. Most of the leaves have fallen off the vines now so we’ll shortly begin the long process of winter pruning. As well as pruning the vines we will also be chopping back our willow windbreak. We planted the willow about six years ago and they’ve grown really big, really quickly. Every few years we pollard them and chop them right back down before they begin to shade the vines. Their job is to create a more sheltered environment and break up the south westerly breeze. We’ll be chipping and shredding their branches and using them as

a mulch to improve the soil around the base of the vines over the coming years. They’ve become a real wildlife haven because they tend to provide a home for thousands of willow aphids which in turn provide a great source of food for small birds and predatory insects. With the festive period looming we are hoping to be able to prepare a new sparkling wine for release soon. At the moment, we only have still rosé for sale. Frustratingly most people think of rosé as a summer drink and we’re forever reminding them that it's nice all year round! We are in the middle of dosage trials on our new sparkling red and sparkling white wines. We very much hope to disgorge and prepare one of them in time for Christmas so watch this space. We’ll be at the Christmas Market at Bishop Road School on Thursday 23rd November, 7-9pm – hope to see you there! hello@dunleavyvineyards.co.uk www.dunleavyvineyards.co.uk @DYvineyards (twitter) dunleavy vineyards (facebook & instagram)

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To advertise, contact Emma on 0117 9082121 or 07715 770448 or email emma@bishopstonvoice.co.uk.

FEATURE nADVERTISING ADVERTORIAL

bishopstonvoice

Frenchay Christmas CrossFit Avon Reopening As FitnessTree For Life

In 1999, turf was broken in a field alongside the M32 motorway and Frenchay’s first Christmas trees were introduced to the red Bristol soil. They took quite well, and From– the end of November, His experience has helped older clients now twenty-four years later,the theCrossFit Avon gym on Merton Road is closing and to regain or retain their fitness into their owners proudly claim that they undergoing a transformation. The gym will retirement years. could have one door on an advent reopen in 2024 as ‘Fitness For Life’. The change to Fitness For Life signifies calendar forJanuary every year that they Localbeen personal trainer Andrew Handoll-Clark more than just a name shift; Andrew have in business. opened CrossFit insold 2010. He now feels recognises that fitness encompasses both “The first year, Avon we just a few that for the New it’s time to launch the physical wellbeing and the realm of mental Christmas trees onYear, the grass verge new philosophy he’sif tried-and-tested with health. Andrew’s approach was born from outside the gate. So the progress of our business be marked clients over thecould last two years. as his curiosity to understand why people find if itAs were an advent calendar, he says, “I’ve spent yearsthen coaching it difficult to stick to their goals and which behind first doormyself wouldinbethe a everpeople,the immersed factors hold them back. He explains, “We’re lorry, withworld me and dad and selling evolving ofmy health fitness, introducing a comprehensive wellness Christmas trees fromwith the back of it!” and experimented various training system which focuses on how we ‘Move’, the says grower Simon Maughan. philosophies. I’ve drawn on research into best ways to ‘Fuel’ our bodies, and tools to “After that,movement we’d have aand doorbiomechanics for evolutionary support our ‘Mind’. That last one’s the gameaand shipping container, was then created mywhich own programme by changer.” our first ‘office’ , then door for our combining the bestaelements of each. Most “When we open the doors in January, our iconic ‘Wild West’ and importantly, I’ve windmill, been witnessing remarkable new gym timetable will run 6 days a week another for the results with mycompost personaltoilet, training clients.” with early morning, daytime and evening which is a beautiful Andrew has seenlittle greatselfresults with a wide sessions. The format will be small group contained hut that suitsfrom its setting range of local people, those recovering personal training sessions with a maximum perfectly. alsotohave doors for wanting to from backWe’d issues sports people of four people at a time, which I believe is the all the wildlife that makes its home The windmillsweet at sunset get better performance. He’s trained people spot for getting all the coaching you on the farm, as well as the pond with manual jobs to cope with lifting loads need, as well as a social training experience. and the creatures and plants that and mums carrying small children regularly. Which people love.” heart of the farm where everyone rummaging through the lucky live in that.” gathers: regular customers, new dip. “Before you know what’s Behind the final door would families with babes in arms happening, the children are all have be the peg-andReadtomore onbeautiful the website https://fitnessforlifegyms.co.uk or call(or carriers) that come for their firstJanuary. grown up and coming back as timber barn, which would make Andrew on 07970 493643 with any questions about signing up for a wonderful crib scene. This is the Christmas, and many many children customers with their own families.

Farm Celebrates 24 Years

Like the trees, they put down roots and just grow! We love seeing all the familiar faces year after year.” And so every year a new generation arrives, and as the Christmas trees are cut, a new generation of trees is planted to replace those that are harvested through November and December. Each tree as unique and varied as the families who come to buy them. “For most of our customers it’s a tradition. We see this more and more as people share their experiences with us and each other on social media. It brings the place alive, and it’s just amazing for us to see how people experience their visit to our farm.” Frenchay Christmas Tree Farm is open every day from 9am to 5pm from Saturday 18th November. You can visit in person, or order your tree, stand and wreath online either for delivery or for click and collect.

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OPEN EVERY DAY UNTIL DECEMBER 23RD FROM 9AM-5PM To contact Emma on2023 0117 9082121 or 07715 770448 or email emma@bishopstonvoice.co.uk. News? Call Ken 0n 07715 770 377 Downend Voice December 32advertise,

bishopstonvoice

December, 2023

n FROM THE MAYOR’S OFFICE

The future of the Colston statue MANY lessons can be learnt from what happened in the past, especially when many of the impacts are still felt today. Understanding our history remains as important as ever. Since the day that Colston’s statue was pulled down in June 2020, particularly during its temporary display at M Shed, Bristol has come together to ask important questions about our city’s heritage. We must continue trying to make a better, fuller history. It was through the We Are Bristol History Commission that we held a citywide conversation about the future of the statue and how we can build and present a better understanding of our history for this generation and the next. Nearly 14,000 people responded to the commission’s survey, with residents and people from further afield taking part. The vast majority (80%) of Bristol

residents who responded agreed that the best place for the statue in future was in one of our museums. The History Commission made the same recommendation in their report. To help make this a reality, an application to regularise the legal position of the listed asset, away from its plinth, has recently been submitted which will go to a planning committee early in the new year. It was submitted following discussions with Historic England, the government advisory body responsible for designating listed buildings, as part of the preapplication process. Alongside this, a new M Shed exhibition is being developed and will open in March, refreshing the theme of ‘protest’ in the People Gallery. This will include Colston’s statue as part of an exhibit focusing on racial injustice. More

details on the exhibition will be released nearer the time. The progress that has been made so far is a testament to the strength of feeling in Bristol and the dedicated work of all those who have been involved. I thank them for all they have done before the History Commission formally comes to an end in November. The work they have started will be taken forward by the Bristol Legacy Foundation, which has more plans for acknowledging our city’s history in the trafficking of enslaved African people. If we want to be a city that is fully inclusive and fair to all, then race equality is a topic that needs to remain firmly on our agenda. Great strides have been made but the conversation is by no means over. Standing together, we remember what happened before us, agree what happens

Marvin Rees shares his views with the Voice now and create a legacy of our own that sits proudly alongside our history and not in its shadows. As 2023 draws to a close, I want to wish all residents across South Bristol a safe, peaceful festive period and a happy New Year.

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bishopstonvoice

December, 2023

n WHAT'S ON November 26 n CHRISTMAS ARTISAN CRAFT FAIR 10am-4pm. Ashton Court Mansion Bristol BS41 9JN. Bristol Makers and crafters with 40 stalls indoors. Handmade gifts cards artwork, jewellery, soaps candles, knits crochets, textiles, Christmas wreaths and decorations, craft beer, preserves and much more Café serving teas coffees and cakes £2 entry – under 16s free December 8-13 n Bristol Refugee Artists Collective and UWE students are staging an exhibition on “Compassion and Belonging” at Centrespace Gallery. Open daily from 11am to 7pm. 10th - 24th December n Follow a CHRISTMAS TRAIL using your QR reader around the car park of Horfield Baptist Church, 160A Gloucester Road.

REGULAR EVENTS

Monday n REDLAND WIND BAND has vacancies for some woodwind, brass and percussion players. This friendly group meets 7.30-9.30pm at Redland Church Hall, Redland Green. Contact via email on redlandwindband@ gmail.com n DICKENS SOCIETY. 7pm, at Leonard Hall, Henleaze URC, Waterford Rd, Bristol BS9 4BT. Talks, costumed readings, book club and social events. See www.dickenssociety.org.uk or phone Roma on 0117 9279875. n PLAY BOWLS at Canford Park in a friendly, social atmosphere. Qualified coaches and equipment provided. Contact: Les on 07305695579 n WESTBURY AND CLIFTON AREA DISCUSSION GROUP are a merry band of retired people who meet at December 10 Westbury on Trym Baptist Church n BRISTOL BACH CHOIR WITH every Monday morning (9.45) and HORFIELD CEVC PRIMARY like to challenge ourselves with SCHOOL CHOIR present festive topical debate on what’s happening songs and readings to help you in the world. If you would like to join get into the Christmas spirit. and help to solve some of today's 4pm. St George's Bristol BS1 5RR. challenging issues, contact James Tickets from £12 . bristolbach. Ball 01454 415165 or Ian Viney 0117 org.uk 9501628. COMMUNITY The VOICE SEPT 2022.qxp_Layout n 1 BRISTOL 27/07/2022 11:43 Page 1 GAMELAN play the music of Java at The VOICE SEPT 2022.qxp_Layout 1 27/07/2022 11:43 Page 1 The VOICE SEPT 2022.qxp_Layout 1 27/07/2022 11:43 Page 1

Cotham School from 6.30-8.30. We play by numbers – only 1-6, without the 4 ! So no auditions, no need to read music. If you fancy a different musical experience, contact us via email on keithripley27@gmail.com n WESTBURY ON TRYM WOMEN'S INSTITUTE meets on the third Monday of the month in the Westbury Village Hall, Eastfield Road, BS9 4AG, from 2.00 - 4.00 pm. We have interesting speakers, and extra activities of crafts, lunch club, skittles and outings. For more information call Sascha on 07961619806 or Traci on 07766073917 Tuesday n THE ARTS SOCIETY BRISTOL LECTURE welcomes new members. Our lectures, given by specialists in their own field, take place on the second Tuesday of the month from September to May at 8pm at Redmaids' High BS9 3AW and by internet. For more information visit our website www. theartssociety-bristol.org.uk n BRISTOL HARMONY WEST GALLERY CHOIR and band sing and play lively church and village music from the 18thcentury. St Edyth’s Church Hall, St Edyth’s Road, Sea Mills, 7.30 pm on the 1st

and 3rd Tuesday each month. All voices (SATB), string, wind and reed instruments welcome. No auditions but ability to read music helpful. www.bristolharmony.wordpress. com or call Fritjof 0117 924 3440. Contact before attending. n POETRY UNLIMITED – poetry circle meet on the First Tuesday of every month 11am - 12 midday. Basement Room, Café Kino, 108 Stokes Croft, Bristol, BS1 3RU. £2.50 - £3.00 donation towards the cost of the room. Bring a couple of poems to share, other poets or your own. Contact Dee: wetwo@ gentlyblown.co.uk Web: www. poetryunlimitedbristol.weebly.com n COMPANION VOICES BRISTOL We are a 'threshold choir' looking for new people to join us. We meet in Easton on the 3rd Tuesday of the month from 7 to 9 pm to learn songs by ear and build skills in sensitivity/compassion/ loving presence to sing at the bedsides of people nearing the end of life. To join/support us in this work, contact Valerie on bristol@companionvoices. org. Visit www.facebook.com/ CompanionVoicesBristol and www. companionvoices.org. Wednesday

2024

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To advertise, contact Emma on 0117 9082121 or 07715 770448 or email emma@bishopstonvoice.co.uk.

December, 2023 n WELCOME WEDNESDAY Friendly and free coffee afternoon on the last Wednesday of the month, 2-3.30pm at The Beehive Pub, Wellington Hill West, BS9 4QY. Meet new people, have fun, and find out what’s happening in your local area. Call 0117 435 0063 for more information. 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 GOLDEN HILL WI Meets the first Wednesday of every month. 1-3pm. Golden Hill Sports Ground, Wimbledon Rd, BS6 7YA A vibrant, lively new afternoon WI in BS6. We have an exciting and varied programme to offer to members. Visitors and new members will be given a warm welcome. For more information contact Pam Scull at goldenhillwi@ gmail.com. n HEALING SESSIONS run by accredited healers take place 2 til 3.30pm at Westbury Park Spiritualist Church, Cairns Road BS6 7TH. Just turn up, or for info contact Marian

bishopstonvoice Bishop 0117 9771629 or visit www. westburyparkspiritualistchurch.org n OPEN DEVELOPMENT CIRCLE For those interested in developing their spiritual awareness and mediumistic ability. 7.15 for 7.30pm start at Westbury Park Spiritualist Church, Cairns Road BS6 7TH. Just turn up, or for info contact Marian Bishop 0117 9771629 or visit www. westburyparkspiritualistchurch.org n BRISTOL VOICES COMMUNITY CHOIR welcomes new members at any time. We meet at 7.30pm in St Werburghs Primary School during term time. See www.bristolvoices. org.uk for details. Thursday n HEALING FOR WELLBEING Feel more relaxed, peaceful, calmer. Drop-in at Redland Meeting House, 126 Hampton Road, BS6 6JE. NEW TIME 3.30 to 4.45 pm. Donation basis. Supported by Healing Trust members. Contact Selina 0117 9466434 or selinanewton@ yahoo.co.uk for dates and other information. n BISHOPSTON COMMUNITY CHOIR Meet on Thursday evenings, 7.30pm to 9.00pm at Horfield Baptist Church, 160a Gloucester Road, Bishopston BS7 8NT. Everyone welcome, no audition necessary. Contact us via email on bishoproadchoir@gmail.com

n LITTLE BEATS – NEW UNDER 5'S MUSIC CLASS. Thursdays 9.30am (term time), Westbury Methodist Church. Run by Sarah, a professional singer. Songs both kids and adults will love! £8/session, payable each half term. LittleBeatsHQ@gmail.com 07748 677716 n HENLEAZE LADIES’ CHOIR Come and join us as we fill St Peter’s Church Hall in Henleaze with a diverse selection of music. We are a friendly choir and meet on Thursday afternoons in term time from 1.45 to 3.45. There are no auditions, and the ability to read music is not necessary. Contact Jeanette on 9685409 or Jane on 07752 332278 n LOCAL CHOIR. We meet at Stoke Bishop CE Primary School, BS9 1BW on Thursday, 7.45 - 9.15pm. We are a well-established mixed choir performing both sacred and secular music. See our website www.henburysingers.org or contact the secretary at secretary@ henburysingers.org. n HIGHBURY BADMINTON CLUB: Pete Stables 0117 950 1524 or www.pete4458.wixsite.com/ highburybadminton Thurs 7:30pm mid September to End April, Westbury-on-Trym Village Hall

n ENJOY SCOTTISH DANCING at St. Monica’s Oatley Hall, Cote Lane, BS9 3UN on Thursdays 7.30 – 10.00 p.m. £6.00 per session. Phone Trish 0788 052 8925/www. rscdsbristol.info n THE STEPFORD SINGERS WOMEN'S COMMUNITY CHOIR meets at Horfield Baptist Church, Bishopston on Thursday afternoons, 1pm to 3pm. No auditions and no need to read music! Come for a free taster session with our friendly, supportive group and learn to sing in harmony. For info, contact Fran franbolton66@gmail.com Friday n THE SINGING TREE. Fun kodály inspired music sessions for under fives. 10 - 11am Redland Church Hall. Refreshments. Contact Kate on singingtreewithkate@gmail.com further details.

We would love to publicise your event Send details of your events and activities in the following format:

WHAT IT IS WHERE IT IS WHEN IT IS in no more than 40 words, email us at: news@bishopstonvoice.co.uk

0300 323 0700 info@wecr.org.uk www.wecr.org.uk Previously known as We Care & Repair, we have over 30 years of experience

We specialise in:

Call us on 0300 323 0700

Accessible bathroom & kitchen installations Home adaptations, conversions, extensions & repairs Handyperson service Occupational Therapy

Our aim is to improve the homes of older people and those with disabilities - enabling them to live independently in the surroundings they love for as long as they choose Appointed provider for:

Your local and friendly veterinary practice To advertise, contact Emma on 0117 9082121 or 07715 770448 or email emma@bishopstonvoice.co.uk.

bishopstonvoice

December, 2023

n PUZZLE PAGE Each row, column and square (9 spaces each) needs to be filled out with the numbers 1-9, without repeating any numbers within the row, column or square.

NOTE After feedback from readers, we have made The Fiend SLIGHTLY easier!

C 5

N 1

E V

E 4

R D

E A

E 3

1 2

Tel: 0117 9422152

On the first floor and situated just off the Gloucester Road with LED lighting and near to all amenities ie. the main post office Price on application Terms are flexible Please ring to view

OFFICE / STUDIO / WORKSHOP

TO LET

Down 1 46228483 (8) 2 37323 (5) 3 633333 (6) 6 236473 (6) 9 749 (3)

Txtpert

Rules the same as the Fiend, but only four numbers in each box, row and column

Easier sudoku Solutions I

Across 1 47533 (5) 4 7243 (4) 5 24273 (5) 7 2843 (4) 8 84643 (5) 9 723 (3) 10 3689 (4)

www.ActivityVillage.co.uk - Keeping Kids Busy

Use the phone keypad to decode the clues. For example: 2 could be A, B or C ... and 5678 could be LOST

4 5

N T

6 9

R I N T

T N

Theme: Feelings

I W

Txtpert

Every row, column and mini-grid must contain the letters W I N T E R. Don’t guess - use logic

9 2 7 5 8 6 3 1 9 5 7

Winter Sudoku

4 5 7 5 7 1

9 6

For younger readers

The FIEND

Graham Cook Gardener and handyman

Grass cutting, hedge and shrub trimming, weeding, planting, felling small trees, clearing, small painting jobs including garden fences and other maintenance work. Please call for a no-obligation chat

Call 0117 377 0644 or 07415 658 205

To advertise, contact Emma on 0117 9082121 or 07715 770448 or email emma@bishopstonvoice.co.uk.

bishopstonvoice

December, 2023

n PROPERTY OF THE MONTH

Nevil Road £795,000 This impressive property is set back from the road behind an enclosed front garden. The front has an attractive façade featuring an arched gable - this also gives additional height to the 2nd and original top floor. The front door leads through into an entrance vestibule, from here straight ahead is a covered storage space that eventually leads through to the rear garden and to the right the house itself. This side entrance gives a uniformity to the property and an efficient use of the overall plan. A central stairs winds through the middle of the property, through two landings which in turn give direct access to each room. The ground floor starts with the principal reception that includes a bay window inset with stained glass and ornate cornice. Next to this is another room often used as a home office/play room. The rear has the largest reception measuring 15'11 in width also having the benefit of a set of French door opening to

the side return section of the rear garden. Lastly but by no means least is a very good sized family kitchen/breakfast room with access to a utility, WC and out to the rear garden. The first floor has starts with the master bedroom benefiting from a bay window and ancillary room. The rear has another large double bedroom and shower room. Stairs rise up to the 2nd floor where two further rooms are found - one of which has been used as an artist studio. The is also plenty of storage in the built in cupboard on the landing and in the eaves.

35 201 Gloucester Road Bishopston, Bristol BS7 8BG Sales: 0117 942 5855

● No Chain ● Short walk to Gloucester Road and popular schools ● Three storey, double bay fronted Victorian semi ● Many retained period features ● Garage with off street parking ● Three separate receptions ● Generous kitchen / breakfast room ● Four double bedrooms ● 189 sq. m / 2034 sq. ft ● EPC - TBC

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To advertise, contact Emma on 0117 9082121 or 07715 770448 or email emma@bishopstonvoice.co.uk.

bishopstonvoice

December, 2023

n BOOKS

Bristol 650 – Essays on the Future of Bristol Review by Bob Deacon of Bishopston Library I HAVE been working in the County & City of Bristol since 1978. In that time I have witnessed the decline of Broadmead and the construction of The Galleries and Cabot Circus. I have seen the transformation of the Harbourside with the conversion of warehouses to form The Watershed, the M Shed,We Are Curious and numerous bars and restaurants. Bristol is unique in being both a City & a County. Back in 1373, King Edward III granted County status to Bristol. Bristol 650 celebrates the 650th anniversary of that event. There are 35 essays chronicling the city’s past as well as looking to the future. Eugene Byrne takes us back to 1400, when Bristol was the second biggest town in England, with English cloth being exported in exchange for wine from France, Spain & Portugal. Local merchants, helped to finance John Cabot’s expedition to North America in 1497 as well as the Triangular Slave Trade between England, Africa

and the colonies in America and the Caribbean with half a million African slaves being transported across the Atlantic on ships registered in Bristol. Michael Manson heralds Bristol as the home of Concorde, Banksy and Wallace & Gromit and praises the vitality of areas such as Stokes Croft, St Marks Road, Totterdown and North Street. Shawn Naphtial Sobers describes Bristol, as a city coming to terms with its past links to slavery and calls for a permanent site in the city where history can be explored and enslaved Africans can be commemorated. George Ferguson recalls arriving in Bristol in 1965, to find a city recovering from World War II, with hosts of unattended bombsites and derelict buildings. He suggests a network of 15 Minute Healthy Communities with all needs met within easy walking distance. He recommends a ban on car commuting into the city during peak hours, expanded Park& Ride and a city owned public

transport network. Sian Norris highlights the long history of feminism in the city including Annie Kenney who arrived in 1907 to set up the West of England branch of the Womens Social & Political Union. Bristol City Council is the only local authority to have a Cabinet Member for Women & Children. Annabel Smith records that Bristol is the only city outside London in which there are more people with degrees than people without them. However, Bristol is also a tale of two cities, with almost all school pupils in Clifton progressing to higher education as opposed to just eight per cent of pupils living in Hartcliffe. Martin Boddy praises the city’s capacity to reinvent itself with the old tobacco and dock industries superceded by Airbus, Rolls Royce & Aardman Animations. If you are not already a library member, drop in and join your local library at 100a Gloucester Road.

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To advertise, contact Emma on 0117 9082121 or 07715 770448 or email emma@bishopstonvoice.co.uk.

December, 2023

bishopstonvoice

n LETTER Parking on pavements is against the law I HAVE tried to encourage local walking (Bishopston Walking Map, routes to Southmead Hospital, etc) and a major problem that wouldbe walkers cite is about vehicles obstructing the footway. It is worrying that in your November 2023 issue, the Police & Crime Commissioner condones illegal pavement parking. The law about vehicles on pavements is clear - and has been since the 1835 Highways Act. It is illegal to drive on or over a pavement, footpath

or bridleway "except to gain lawful access to property, or in the case of an emergency" – see Rule 145 of the Highway Code. Unless the vehicle was lifted on to the footway, it will have been driven there – illegally. The PCC correctly wrote: "It is important to remember that pavements are solely for the use of pedestrians" but continued: "If you do need to use the pavement to park, please do so with care ... This ensures accessibility and safety for all road users and pedestrians in Avon and Somerset". That comment is WRONG on several counts. Emergency apart, parking on the pavement is illegal; pedestrians ARE road users, just as much

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38 CLEANING

bishopstonvoice

December, 2023

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To advertise, contact Emma on 0117 9082121 or 07715 770448 or email emma@bishopstonvoice.co.uk.

December, 2023 PAINTING & DECORATING

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WASTE DISPOSAL

RUBBISH CLEARED

Registered upper tier waste carrier licence no CBDU225074

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 Contact Stuart or Sue

Freephone 0800 0234 995 Mobile 07770944727 anytime inc. weekends

To advertise, contact Emma on 0117 9082121 or 07715 770448 or email emma@bishopstonvoice.co.uk.

Merry Christmas & Happy New Year from Sofa Magic!

Your Local Soft Furnishings Specialists Sofas l Curtains & Blinds l Footstools l Headboards l Reupholstery Thank you for your support in 2023 and we look forward to bringing you beautifully crafted, bespoke soft furnishings in the new year. Happy Holidays! Sofa Magic showroom: 119 Coldharbour Road, BS6 7SD l 0117 924 8383 info@sofamagic.co.uk l sofamagic.co.uk