Bishopston Voice February 2020 by Emma Cooper

bishopstonvoice February, 2020 Issue 87

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Sofa Project celebrates 40 years Is this Britain's Best Home Cook? Meet Bristol dad Robin, who has wowed Mary Berry with his pear upside-down cake in TV's Best Home Cook competition. PAGE 15

Council acts to ease SEND crisis Bristol City Council, which was severely criticised by Ofsted over its special educational needs and disabilities provision, is pledging an extra ÂŁ1.3m for improvements. PAGE 6

Inspiring! Luke takes on challenge A PIONEERING organisation is celebrating 40 years of reuse and recycling furniture and appliances in Bristol. The Sofa Project (shifting old furniture about) iestimates that the project has prevented nearly 400,000 items going to landfill.

On one of the many sofas at their shop on Gloucester Road, are trustee Keith Hicks, chair of trustees Ruth Snary and retail manager Adrian White, with Nicci Peck CEO (pictured back row left) and shop supervisor Aga Uszynska (back right). Full story: Pages 4 & 5

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Luke Grenfell-Shaw, 25, whose charity supports people with cancer to live life to the full, is cycling from Bristol to Beijing to raise money and awareness. PAGE 8

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February, 2020

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Bishopstonvoice contacts Emma Cooper Publisher

0117 908 2121 / 07715 770448 emma@bishopstonvoice.co.uk

Sue Thomas

News Editor

07976 706120 news@bishopstonvoice.co.uk

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Erica Benson

Advertising Sales 0117 908 2121 sales@bishopstonvoice.co.uk

March deadline Our March deadline is February 12. 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.

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

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

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.

Council tax set to rise 3.99% COUNCIL tax is set to rise by the maximum 3.99 per cent for Bristol residents from April. It takes the annual bill from the city council for an average Band D property to £1,758.28 — £67.46 more than this year — plus additional smaller sums to pay for the police and fire service. Half of the increase will go towards paying for adult social care after a consultation with thousands of householders found a majority in favour of adding two per cent to the charge specifically for that purpose. But the consultation also revealed that the the biggest group — 41 per cent — wanted a freeze on council tax and no additional fee for adult social care. Of the rest, 35 per cent preferred a two per cent increase in council tax and 23 per cent favoured one per cent. The rises will give Bristol City Council an extra £8.7million to spend on services, plus £2.4million from the 1,567 new households since last year. The cheapest Band A households face a £44.98 council tax rise to £1,172.19, Band B a £52.47 hike to £1,367.55 and Band C go up £59.97 to £1,562.92. Bills for Band E residents will increase by £82.46 to £2,149.02, Band F by £97.45 to £2,539.75, Band G’s rise by £112.44 to £2,930.47 and the most expensive Band H properties will be charged an extra £134.93 taking their total to £3,516.57. If approved by cabinet members next Tuesday, full council will make the final decision on February 25. The precepts levied by the Avon & Somerset police and crime commissioner and Avon Fire & Rescue Service, which are added to the final council tax bills, are yet to be set. By Adam Postans, Local Democracy Reporter

Appeal for witnesses AVON and Somerset Police are appealing for witnesses and video footage of a collision in Bristol on Saturday January 18 in which a car flipped on to its side. A grey Mercedes C220 collided with a parked Ford Fiesta on Gloucester Road. The driver of the Mercedes made off from the scene. Police want to speak to anyone who saw how the Mercedes was being driven before the collision or who has footage of it. They would particularly like to hear from a member of the public who showed officers a video of part of the incident but who left the scene before his details or the footage could be obtained. If you saw what happened, have dashcam or any other footage of the incident, please call 101 and provide the call handler with the reference 5220014079.

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February, 2020

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Man charged over HMP Bristol assault A MAN was due before Bristol Magistrates Court on Monday 13 January in connection with an incident at HMP Bristol on Friday 10 January. Daniel Matthews, 27, is charged with two counts of attempting to commit grievous bodily harm with intent, three counts of assaulting an emergency worker and one of having an offensive weapon in prison. Five prison officers were injured. Four required hospital treatment and have since been discharged. Sarah Rigby, from the Prison Officers Association (POA), said the prisoner had been transferred from a high-security jail. HMP Bristol in Horfield is a category B prison where most prisoners stay for fewer than 12 months. Reports of overcrowding revealed in the Ministry of Justice’s latest Prison Population bulletin add to more bad news for HM Prison Bristol. Bristol Prison finds itself in the bottom 14% of national prisons, earning the lowest rating "performance is of serious concern" and is one of only five prisons currently subject to an Urgent Notification from the HMIP. Liberal Democrat Bristol West Spokesperson James Cox said: "Bristol Prison has long been in crisis. Overstretched staff simply can’t cope. That means prisoners aren’t being rehabilitated, resulting in high re-offending rates and more victims of crime. "If the Government is serious about cutting crime and making our communities safe, they must end the pointless short prison sentences that cause overcrowding and actually make people more likely to reoffend.” H

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February, 2020

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The upcycling project that was 40 year A LOCAL reuse and recycling charity says that more can be done to reuse furniture and appliances, 40 years on from when its volunteers first started their work. SOFA Project (which stands for Shifting Old Furniture Around) was founded in 1980 by a couple of volunteers who simply wanted to stop seeing items being thrown away, and for them to be reused by someone else instead. It is estimated that the project has prevented nearly 400,000 items going to landfill. These range from household appliances and good quality furniture to clothes and pots of paint, and the social enterprise is the only cause in our region licensed by the UK Environment Agency to provide refurbished white goods sold fully tested and under guarantee. Although the recycling landscape has much improved

since the charity began, with Bristol now being a lead city, still more than half of used furniture and appliances goes to landfill. Since the beginning, SOFA Project has helped many thousands of families afford low cost, quality furniture and appliances. These are supplied direct or through two shops,

one in West Street, Old Market and the other more recently in Gloucester Road. The furniture through these shops is sold at affordable prices, such as the weekly £10 sofa. However despite the charity's work, Bristol still has many families going without what are regarded as necessities of living in the 21st

century. Nicci Peck, chief executive officer of SOFA Project said: “There is still a compulsion to buy new. We want people to donate quality furniture, create work opportunities and buy reused household items to prevent landfill. There are amazing furniture items and appliances around without the need to always resort to new ones. “These days we’re seeing the trend that more and more people are selling items themselves online, so sadly rather more unusual items are disappearing, however we did get a harp once - quite tricky to sell due to the size! We’ve also been donated bagpipes (fortunately for our ears none of us could play them) and our more recent favourites have included a Victorian nursing chair, an immaculate massive games table (for pool, and on the reverse side, air soccer), and our

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February, 2020

rs ahead of its time freakiest item recently received was a taxidermy fox in a very elegant display case that had been used in a movie set!” What makes SOFA Project unique is its ability to re-manufacture to provide subsidised good quality furniture, washing machines and cookers. It produces these from its warehouse in central Bristol with the aid of volunteers and those previously excluded from employment, as well as prisoners on rehabilitation programmes from Leyhill Open Prison. Some of the imaginatively reused items include chaise longues made from complete 100% recycled materials, storage from washing machine drums and clothes rails made from chairs. Governor of HMP Leyhill, Neil Lavis said: “SOFA Project plays a key role in the rehabilitation of prisoners back into society by providing meaningful employment. The

organisation has consistently been able to provide opportunities and training for low risk category prisoners.” Marvin Rees, Bristol’s Mayor, added: “Congratulations to SOFA on 40 years’ contribution to supporting lower income families and those otherwise marginalised in Bristol. There continues to be so much more we can do in Bristol to support families get the basics and organisations like SOFA Project are a vital part of improving the quality of life for our citizens.” Looking ahead, SOFA Project is keen to develop an upcycling workshop within HMP Eastwood Park, which is the nearest local women’s prison. Nicci Peck said: “We’ve had very fruitful discussions about this and we’re just waiting for the site to be developed within HMP Eastwood Park. This has been something I’ve long wanted SOFA Project to

do; we’ve worked with make prisoners since 2008 but there are very few work experience or training opportunities for female prisoners and I’d like to see this improve in the future.” To find out more about SOFA Project and their work, visit: www.sofaproject.org.uk Pictured above: A floor washing machine drum light, top right: Filing cabinet to garden planter, right: an upcycled sideboard

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February, 2020

n NEWS BRISTOL City Council is proposing an increase to its Special Education Needs and Disability (SEND) budget by more than £1.3m for 2020/21. Some children and young people may require more help to learn and develop than others, and if their needs are not successfully met by support in their local school or education placement, they might need to access SEND services or national statutory processes. SEND services are teams across education, health and social care for children and young people aged from 0-25 who are identified by the local area as having additional or complex needs. The proposed budget boost will help the council to fund its Education Transformation Programme (a long-term plan to develop, improve and transform its education service - including SEND) and address the Ofsted/ Care Quality Commission (CQC) Inspection findings of SEND services across Bristol’s local area, which were published at the end of 2019. Ofsted and the CQC carried out their joint, statutory, local area inspection of SEND over five consecutive days in September and October 2019. However, the publication of the findings was delayed due to the general election. A team of inspectors looked at how effectively services provided by the council, education settings and health care providers identify and meet the needs of children and young people with SEND, as well as how their outcomes can be improved. They spoke with groups including children and young people with SEND

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£1.3m boost to tackle city's special needs education crisis and their parents and carers in early years, schools and post-16 education settings, as well as the Bristol Parents and Carers Forum, NHS professionals at the Clinical Commissioning Group and health partners providing autism, mental health and speech and language services. The Ofsted/CQC inspection found that the implementation of the 2014 Special Education Needs (SEN) reforms in Bristol has been too slow and fragmented. However, inspectors recognised that since 2018 there have been noticeable improvements in the leadership of SEND in the local area, but that parents, carers and children will not have seen the benefits of this improvement to date. In addition, they also responded positively to plans for a new diagnostic pathway for Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) assessment, the impact this will have on assessment times and the clarity this will provide to parents and carers. Commenting on the announcement, Councillor Anna Keen, Cabinet Member for Education and Skills said: “Like many other local authorities across England we are transforming a service which continues to see increasing demand while being critically underfunded by central government. “Funding for SEND is a priority for us and we will

continue to ask the government for fair and appropriate levels of funding that match our needs in Bristol; however this is of immense importance and we must act now, so are looking to make the necessary adjustments in our budget to ensure we can fund the programme now and drive improvements for the future.” Councillor Eleanor Combley also added: “Ofsted and the Care Quality Commission have looked into how we provide for the children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities in Bristol, and they have found significant problems. Arrangements for identifying and assessing children and young people with SEND are inconsistent, the plans made to ensure they get the support they need are inadequate, and rates of persistent absenteeism and fixed-term exclusion are high. “I have been warning about the amount of churn in Bristol City Council’s senior leadership team for years, so I was not surprised to see this report identify turbulence in the leadership of the council and the Clinical Commissioning Group (NHS) as an issue, as it has resulted in them not doing enough to hold each other, or school leaders, to account. “Many parents have had terrible experiences trying to get their children’s needs identified and met, and there is nothing

I can say or do to magic that away. But as councillors we will be holding the senior leadership team to their promises to give this the highest priority and do everything they can to turn this service around.” Councillors met to discuss the proposal (including the wish to reallocate money generally available to schools into the High Needs Block (HNB), a budget specifically for children and young people with additional needs) at the Schools Forum at City Hall on January 15. Under the Dedicated Schools Grant (DSG) regulations, local authorities can move up to 0.5% of their allocated budget, which will be just over £1.3m, to areas of greatest need. The DSG funding also shows an increase to the HNB budget from central government of 13% from £53.9m to over £60m. The council was due to consider its 2020/21 budget at Cabinet on 20 January where it was also seeking to increase resources to help improve statutory assessment processes and Education Health Care (EHC) plan timeframes. An update on this will be provided in our next edition. To find out more about the findings of the Ofsted/ CQC inspection, visit: www. bristol.gov.uk/policies-plansstrategies/ofsted-and-cqcinspection-send-report

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February, 2020

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Bristol academics join Climate Assembly Panel AS the UK’s first citizens’ assembly on climate change prepares to meet for the first time at the end of January, the two panels of stakeholders and researchers helping to ensure the balance and accuracy of the assembly have been announced. This includes Professor Dale Southerton and Dr Jo House from the University of Bristol’s Cabot Institute for the Environment who are part of a 13-strong academic panel of researchers who are focused on areas of climate change that the assembly will consider. Dale Southerton, Acting Director of the Cabot Institute and Professor of Consumption and Organisation in the School of Economics, Finance and Management, said: “The University of Bristol was the first university in the UK to declare a climate emergency, where we are leading the way with achieving net zero by 2030. “This means we can offer

advice to the government based on our own carbon-cutting experiences and can also utilise the collective knowledge of our academics at the Cabot Institute for the Environment who are working at the forefront of climate change research.” Dr Jo House, Bishopston resident and a reader in Environmental Policy Science and Policy in Bristol’s School of Geographical Sciences, added: “This could be one of the most important things I get to do this year. It’s a great opportunity and responsibility to share knowledge with members of the public given a mandate to influence policy that could result in real change. “A lot of people in Bishopston are already very well informed. This is about informing yourself with knowledge to take individual actions and putting pressure on local government and industry to make plans. “We are talking about major

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transformation change - doing things in a different way. We can use alternative means of travel, eat in a different way and switch to renewable energy tariffs.” Climate Assembly UK was commissioned by six crossparty House of Commons Select Committees in summer 2019 in response to the Government’s commitment to meet net zero carbon emissions by 2050. Climate Assembly UK will meet for the first time at the end of January and will have three further weekend meetings before the end of March. The 110 assembly members will consider how net zero can be achieved by 2050 and make recommendations on what the Government, businesses, the public and wider UK society should do to reduce carbon emissions. During each weekend Members will consider a range of climate-focused topics including transport, energy use

Jo Cabot in the home, agriculture and consumer choices. The talks will be live streamed on Facebook giving listeners a wide range of ideas about what they can do themselves to reduce emissions. Both Dr House and Professor Southerton are engaging actively with Bristol City Council on developing their climate strategy 2030 targets through her role as Chair of the Bristol Advisory Committee on Climate Change and his role on the One City Environmental Sustainability Board.

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February, 2020

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Inspiring story behind Luke's Bristol to Beijing ride A YOUNG man from north Bristol has set off on on a challenging year-long cycle ride to raise funds for cancer charities. Luke Grenfell-Shaw, 25,has founded a charity called CanLive to show what is possible with a cancer diagnosis.

The tandem trip provides an opportunity for Luke to share the experience with friends, family, and with other young CanLivers, people living with cancer who are inspired to live life to the full and maximise their longevity. CanLive was launched on 19 October 2019, and aims to raise

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awareness and funds during the ride from Bristol, UK, to Beijing, China. Luke was diagnosed with a Stage IV sarcoma (a rare cancer which had spread from his shoulder blade to his lungs) in June 2018. Determined to take charge of his life and live it to the maximum, he has dedicated his time to a series of sporting challenges for both physical and mental wellbeing, including an 80-minute half marathon halfway through chemotherapy. As part of the challenge Luke is hoping to raise funds for cancer charities that have supported him, including CLIC Sargeant, Move Against Cancer (5K Your Way), Trekstock, and the Teenage Cancer Trust. The initial goal to raise £23,000 or £1 for every kilometre cycled on his expedition has been reached only 15 days into the twelve month Bristol2Beijing tandem cycling expedition. “It’s so humbling to see so much support so early in my journey!” said Luke. “For me, this is a clear sign that the CanLive idea is really resonating with people. I’m looking forward to all the impact we can continue to have as we spread the CanLive message through the Bristol2Beijing ride and continue to raise funds for these amazing charities who are doing such important work in the UK.” It is fitting that the final donation contributed to achieving the initial fundraising goal came from the Cambridge University Cycling Club, with whom Luke’s late brother John cycled during his undergraduate and graduate years at Cambridge. Luke has dedicated the Bristol2Beijing expedition in his memory. In the few weeks after Luke’s diagnosis and before John’s trgic death, John had begun making plans to join Luke for large portions of the expedition that Luke then dreamed of making. To honour John’s intent to join him, Luke has named the tandem “Chris” in memory of his brother, John Christopher Grenfell-Shaw. On January 1, Elena (another CanLiver also in her twenties) joined Luke on the tandem as they and a group of supporters cycled away from Bristol

Grammar School at noon. The first leg of Luke’s journey includes a six week, 2,200km cycling tour of Great Britain, including stops to meet with CanLivers and speak with young people who may be inspired by his story and message. Luke’s route will take him through over 20 countries along the ancient and modern Silk Roads: through Europe to Istanbul, and onwards through Iran, Uzbekistan and Tajikistan. Luke is a graduate of both Durham (studies included Russian and Arabic) and Oxford (MSc in Water Science, Policy and Management) universities, leading to his interest in the Silk Roads, and he hopes to arrive in Beijing by Christmas 2020. Speaking about the challenge, Luke said: “The ride is not just about inspiring people living with cancer: the ethos of making the most of the time you have applies to us all and none of us know when our tomorrows will end. This expedition would be seriously challenging even for someone living without cancer, however I want to show that despite a cancer diagnosis you can set your own horizons; that you need not be labelled and limited by it, rather it’s your dreams that determine your achievements.” To find out more about Luke’s challenge and the CanLive movement, visit: bristol2beijing. org. To donate, visit Luke’s Virgin Money Giving page: uk.virginmoneygiving.com/ LukeGrenfellShaw

To advertise, contact Emma on 0117 9082121 or 07715 770448 or email emma@bishopstonvoice.co.uk. Got news? Email: news@bishopstonvoice.co.uk

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February, 2020

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Greenpeace photography exhibition and fundraiser THE Downstairs Gallery at Alchemy, 198 Gloucester Road is hosting an exhibition of amazing oceans pictures taken during the Greenpeace ship Esperanza’s epic trip from the Arctic to the Antarctic to reveal the wonders that lie beneath the surface of our oceans and confront the threats they face. The exhibition launched on Saturday January 18 when Greenpeace Bristol offered an Ocean Experience day in the Downstairs Gallery at Alchemy, 198 Gloucester Road. They displayed some amazing ocean pictures taken by photographers including Denis Sinyakov and Shane Cross working for Greenpeace. Visitors to the exhibition have a unique opportunity to explore the oceans via a special Virtual Reality Experience. In addition to viewing the photographs and virtual reality experience, visitors can also send their own message urging Prime Minister Boris

A walrus relaxes atop an ice floe with Sjettebreen glacier on the background in Svalbard. © Denis Sinyakov / Greenpeace Johnson to send a high-ranking minister to the final round of treaty negotiations. Younger visitors will be able to enjoy some colouring of specially designed Greenpeace posters

The exhibition ends on Thursday 6 February with a fun quiz and social evening starting at 7.30pm. The entry fee of £3 per person will go towards Greenpeace campaigns and

people are welcome to come as a team or individuals can come and join a team on the night. The Greenpeace mission is to secure a Global Ocean Treaty, agreed at the United Nations, to protect the oceans that lie outside national waters. It wasn’t long ago that the oceans were thought to be too vast to be permanently damaged by human actions. However, the risks posed by overfishing, deep sea mining and pollution, coupled with the growing pressures of climate change and ocean acidification, mean that ocean life is more threatened than ever before in human history. Scientists tell us that if we are to avoid the worst effects of climate change and safeguard wildlife, we need to protect at least 30% of our oceans by 2030. The exhibition is open at Alchemy 198 from Tuesday to Saturday from 11am to 11pm. www.alchemy198.co.uk

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February, 2020

n NEWS FROM OUR MP

A welcoming, international Britain is more important than ever JANUARY is a month for new campaigning in Westminster and beginnings. This year, we beyond on your behalf on these also have a new government. things and more. Disappointingly, it is not the The UK’s role as an outwardLabour government I campaigned facing country is more important for, and it will be with us now than ever. This was highlighted by probably for more than four years. events the first three days of 2020, I am grateful to you for with raging wildfires in Australia, showing faith in me as MP for tragic deaths in the Middle Bristol West. With your support I East and an escalating security will challenge this government situation. I will continue my work on what they do and put forward in opposition and do everything alternatives. I welcome your views I can to urge the Government to at every stage. act in the right way on both the When Parliament returned in climate emergency and foreign December, I laid out my priorities policy. for Bristol West in the Queen’s I am now part of the Official Speech debate. I want a reverse Opposition front bench Brexit to ten years of cuts to schools and team for the last few weeks public services, Windrush victims before we leave the EU on 31st to get the compensation they are January. As part of that team, I’ll still waiting for and a close future hold the government to account relationship with the EU. Above and to challenge them on the all I want the government to treat consequences. As I write, the action on climate emergency as Withdrawal Agreement Bill is Abbey hp ads AW.qxp_Layout 1 26/03/2019 11:33 Page 1 top priority. I will be proactive in going through Parliament and I

have a leading role in this, putting forward many of our amendments and speaking from the Dispatch Box as a front bench Shadow Minister for the first time. After the election, the government removed protections to help unaccompanied child refugees join family members in the UK. I believe most in this country agree we should help some of the most vulnerable children in the world. This is who we are as a country. Sadly, the government has so far voted down Labour’s amendments. The Bill is in the Lords as I write and comes back to the Commons on 22nd January, when we will push the government again. I also challenged the Brexit Secretary on the government’s treatment of EU citizens. Labour’s amendment would grant automatic status to the millions of EU citizens who have made

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Thangam Debbonaire column their life in the UK. Although the government ultimately voted that down, we will keep pushing them. If you are an EU citizen and are having any problems with the application process, please get in touch. Campaigning for positive change in 2020 looks tough, but the fantastic people of Bristol, particularly the children I meet in my regular school visits, give me hope for the future. As always, do get in touch if there is something you want me to know, or take up in Parliament, or if you need my help. Thanks for your support.

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bishopstonvoice

February, 2020

n NEWS

Renewal choir bring Christmas joy to St Bon’s ST Bonaventure's Church Christmas Gospel concert with the Renewal choir was a joy to behold. The concert was a huge success and the church was packed! At the concert St Bon’s raised £1,178 for Bristol Youth and Community Action (BYCA), a programme funded from the Bristol High Sheriff’s Fund. BYCA supports young people in Bristol aged between 8 - 12 years with a huge range of diversionary and skills and confidence-building activities for children and young people living in disadvantaged areas of Bristol. It is designed to offer opportunities, positive experiences and reduce risk of involvement in anti-social behaviour. Father Tom said: “The Renewal choir were fantastic and we were pleased so many people from Bishopston came along. We raised an exceptional amount of money for BYCA so I’d like to thank everyone who supported them for their generosity.”

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bishopstonvoice

n NEWS

Help limit unwanted black kittens DESPITE the Moggery in Bishopston offering free black cat neutering in February for two years, the number of unwanted black cats and kittens in the Moggery is still great. A gentle friendly black cat called Maureen was viewed six times before being chosen. One couple rejected her from a distance as soon as they saw she was black. She has now been chosen by a kind family who love her personality. “Selfies are still causing a serious problem for cat rescues,” said Christine Bayka Founder of The Moggery. Christine began offering free neutering for black cats in 2018 when she realised that black cats were not considered photogenic. The Moggery will again neuter black cats free during February in the hope of reducing the number of black unwanted kittens born this spring and summer.

Be a responsible owner Limit unwanted black kittens Act now Call The Moggery on 0117 924 3128 Keep the number of un-homeable black cats in rescues down

February, 2020

Support on offer for unpaid family carers LOCAL charity, Carers Support Centre, are reaching out to people in Bishopston, Cotham and Redland to inform them about help they may be entitled to. If you are a carer, you have the right to a carer’s assessment. If you look after someone, or often provide crucial care for someone who couldn’t manage without that help, this may help you. Bristol carer, Elmas, looks after his wife, Joan, who has a terminal illness. When Jan Mussi of Carers Support Centre first visited them, Joan was bed bound and declining fast. Elmas was under a huge amount of stress. When Jan helped Elmas with his assessment, she realised his wife wasn’t claiming her entitlement to benefit. She helped him complete the paperwork and they were awarded the highest rate of Attendance Allowance. After his assessment, Elmas was awarded a one-off payment to pay for a sitting service. Then his niece offered to come and stay for three months to help take care of his wife. Jan contacted the council on his behalf and they agreed the payment could be used to pay for travel costs. Elmas’s niece is now staying with them and caring for Joan. Get in touch with CarersLine at Carers Support Centre to find out more about carer’s assessments. If you care for an adult who has a support package from Bristol City Council, you can call the Integrated Carers Team at the council on 0117 352 1668. Contact CarersLine: 0117 965 2200, carersline@ carerssupportcentre.org.uk or www.carerssupportcentre.org.uk

To advertise, contact Emma on 0117 9082121 or 07715 770448 or email emma@bishopstonvoice.co.uk. Got news? Email: news@bishopstonvoice.co.uk

bishopstonvoice

February, 2020

n NEWS

Leap into action for Window Wanderland BISHOPSTON Window Wanderland which takes place this year from 29 February – 2 March. Everyone can take part in this magical community event, either as a display maker or by just walking the streets and seeing what our neighbours have done. Sue Powell is one of the event organisers and says: “We would love this to be our biggest Window Wanderland yet, so please encourage your friends and neighbours to take part and cross your fingers for fine weather. “If you are making a display now is the time to sign up if you haven’t done so already at www.windowwanderland.com/ event/bishopston-bristol-2020. Making a display is easy and there are lots of ideas on the Window Wanderland website. It’s amazing to think that by the time our event takes place 95 Window Wanderlands will have taken place around the UK and the wider world and it all started here in Bishopston in 2015!” The Window Wanderland team has arranged for display makers to have free membership of Children’s Scrapstore for the four weeks leading up to the event from Friday 31 January. You will need to take along your sign up email and say you are from Bishopston and you can

stock up on colourful, creative scrap materials for your window works-of-art. The suggested donation for a full trolley is £16 and a basket £6 - it is based on volume so the suggested donation will be lower for less scrap. You can also use the membership to find a wide range of inspiring arts and craft materials in the not for profit ArtShop where members get a 20% discount and staff who are happy to help advise you about using them for window displays. Window Wanderland asks that you try to use recycled materials as much as possible. Children’s Scrapstore will also be offering workshops in early February – look out for further details. SENDaWelcome, a local group for children with special educational needs and disabilities have again bagged the lovely big windows of

Boston Tea Party on Gloucester Road for their display. They will be making artwork for this on Sunday 9 February from 2 - 4pm at St Michael’s Church, 160 A Gloucester Road and all abilities are welcome. Sue Powell says: “While there is no suggested theme this year, we know that Climate Change is very much on the agenda for 2020 and beyond. Many local children have been taking part in the monthly School Strike for Climate, showing a wealth of creativity and passion from kids and their parents. The North Bristol Extinction Rebellion group are also very active in our area and are keen to join in. Window Wanderland is a simple and inclusive way to share concerns about the environment and threat to our natural world.” If you would like to explore ways to create a window display

on these lines then go to Alchemy, 198 Gloucester Road on Feb 19, anytime between 3 and 8pm. Local artists will be on hand to discuss ideas and will have stencils and printing blocks of endangered creatures and XR symbols for you to use. Art materials will be provided but you can also take fabric or clothing to print on. The stencils will also be available at Extinction Rebellion Tuesday meetings at St Michael's Hall on Pigsty Hill and the XR Central meetings on Wednesdays during February. Look out for the amazing Red Rebels masks, designed by local Extinction Rebellion art activist Lou Gray, in the windows of Room 212. Alchemy 198 will be holding a Window Wanderland post trail party on Saturday 29 from 9pm with music from local band Woody and the Firesticks.

A glass act in Chandos Rd WRAP up warmly to enjoy an evening stroll with a difference, wandering round the Chandos Road area in Redland neighbourhood to see the fun and imaginative window displays. The event takes place on the weekend prior to the Bishopston Window Wanderland event on Saturday February 22 and Sunday February 23 from 6pm to 9pm. Further details and a map of participating houses is vailable on the host website www.windowwanderland.com/event/chandosbristol-2020/ Fiona McVey says: “This is our 5th Window Wanderland in the Chandos area, returning by popular request. It’s a fun event for anyone and everyone to join in. Local residents and businesses are encouraged to decorate and light up their front windows or gardens for the evening. From a simple string of lights, to favourite books or toys, to impressively creative displays – anything goes as long as it’s family friendly! “Ideas for window decorations can also be found on the website with plenty of photos from previous years for inspiration. Enjoy the friendly atmosphere on our streets and see the area in a whole new light!” To complete your evening, refreshments are available at local stores, pubs and restaurants.

To advertise, contact Emma on 0117 9082121 or 07715 770448 or email emma@bishopstonvoice.co.uk. Got news? Email: news@bishopstonvoice.co.uk

bishopstonvoice

February, 2020

n NEWS

Celebrating 125 years at St Andrews Park ST Andrews Park first opened its gates to the public 125 years ago in 1895. It was purchased in 1890 for £6,857 and a further £6,190 was spent laying out the grounds for public use. To commemorate these events a celebration day is taking place on Sunday 3 May. The event is organised by the Friends of St Andrews Park who are asking the public to share their memories of time spent in the park to add to a History and Memory stand.

If you have any photos, even better. It may be that you spent time in the park before or during the war, or have enjoyed many afternoons watching your children playing in the paddling pool. To start the ball rolling you are invited to a coffee and cake morning at Alchemy 198, Gloucester Road on Tuesday 11 February. Come along to meet others, learn about the history of St Andrews Park and share memories from 11am - 12.30pm.

Please bring copies of photos or write down your memories to leave with the Anniversary organisers. If you can’t make that meeting, please contact

Jenny Broe on 0117 950 4541 or email jennybroe2008@yahoo. co.uk and she can provide an address to post photos.

Catch up with local issues, hear from your local councillors, community groups and the police at the next Bishopston, Cotham and Redland Community Forum (BCR CP). It’s an opportunity to raise your ideas and issues and discuss them with the local community. All welcome!

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To advertise, contact Emma on 0117 9082121 or 07715 770448 or email emma@bishopstonvoice.co.uk. Got news? Email: news@bishopstonvoice.co.uk

bishopstonvoice

February, 2020

n NEWS

Robin aims to become Britain’s Best Home Cook

BEST Home Cook has returned to our TV screens and Bristolian, Robin has already won the praise of Mary Berry with his perfect pear upside down cake. Having received a luke-warm reaction to his signature lasagne dish in the first round, Robin wowed head judge Mary Berry when tasked with creating a midweek masterpiece using a pear as the main ingredient. Robin is one of ten of the nation’s best home cooks being put through their paces by Mary Berry, Michelin-starred chef, Angela Hartnett and fruit and veg expert Chris Bavin in the hit BBC cooking series. Hosted by Claudia Winkleman, the eight part series follows the home cooks as they embark on the ultimate immersive cooking competition, which sees them living together in a shared house while competing against each other. Robin said: “Being in the

show is so completely different to anything I’ve ever done before. I think of myself as quite a shy, unassuming person and to be thrown into limelight, surrounded by TV cameras, sound engineers, Claudia Winkleman and Mary Berry is a bit different from my day job.” A maintenance supervisor for Bristol-based charity, the St

Monica Trust, Robin gets his passion for food from his mum who worked as a chef. “I’ve always loved cooking and find it very relaxing. I’m usually the first one home from work and tend to make all the meals at home, which my wife is very happy about! I love cooking pasta and lasagne is a big favourite with everyone who

comes to visit.” Robin, who lives in north Bristol with his wife and two children, was inspired to apply for the show after seeing an advert for contestants at the end of one of his favourite cooking shows. “I thought, “why not?” “Initially, it was a case of “let’s see what happens.” At each stage I thought I’d done really well to get that far and was always convinced I wouldn’t go any further. To make it through to the show itself was amazing.” “Being thrown in together with ten other people at the start was brilliant. From a cooking point of view it just made me want to cook even more. When I see the things the other guys cook, I think 'Wow! Why can’t I cook that?' “The experience of being part of the show has made my passion for food even stronger and I hope it inspires guys my age who think they can’t cook to give it a go.”

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Spire Healthcare offers over 300 treatments. See our website for the exact treatments at each hospital. Timings given are indicative, actual timings may vary based on consultant and tests required. Credit is subject to status. Spire Healthcare Limited is acting as a credit broker, Omni Capital Retail Finance Ltd is the lender. All named here are authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Spire Healthcare’s registered address is 3 Dorset Rise, London, EC4Y 8EN.

bishopstonvoice

February, 2020

n NEWS

Age friendly scheme for local cafes

locations, in high street cafes, community centres, even in a Sikh Temple. They are calling on cafes to sign up to FAB and offer a discount for older people in Bristol and/or host one of the ‘catch ups’. Cafes can offer a discount or incentive to encourage older people in on a particular day or time, to encourage more customers to come through the door during quiet times. By

offering discounts for people at quiet times, you can also encourage older people in your community to get out and about and socialise. For example Boston Tea Party on Gloucester Road offers a reduction on tea and cake on a Tuesday afternoon during the monthly catch up café session. Other businesses such as Alchemy 198, have stepped up and provide a

discount on drinks during the week evenings, as well as hosting a very popular disco for over 50s on the last Wednesday of the month. FAB membership stands at around 1,000 older people and growing – it’s completely free for over 50s to join and requires minimal information. FAB members are invited to catch up cafes in their neighbourhood, special events such as tours and talks at places of interests and discounts from cafes and local businesses. Please visit www. ageukbristol.org.uk or call 0117 440 4301 for more information. If you run a business and would like to make it more agefriendly by encouraging older people to come as customers, please get in touch with the Friends Ageing Better team on 0117 440 4301 or email fab@ ageukbristol.org.uk

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Local Housing Forums for Bristol council tenants

Loc a

AGE UK Bristol, through its project Friends Ageing Better (FAB), has been working with cafes and businesses in Bishopston and across Bristol to bring people aged 50 and above together to find out what’s going on locally, helping people make local connections. Silvia Jimenez Cruz, FAB project worker, says: “We know that many older people can experience isolation, particularly after losing a partner or through reduced health and mobility, or retiring from their jobs. FAB works with local businesses and organisations to provide older people with incentives and opportunities to get out and about, meet neighbours and enjoy more of what the city has to offer.” FAB runs regular café meet ups, called ‘catch up cafes’ across Bristol to bring people together. These can happen in a number of different

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To advertise, contact Emma on 0117 9082121 or 07715 770448 or email emma@bishopstonvoice.co.uk. Got news? Email: news@bishopstonvoice.co.uk BD12681 - Local Housing Forums (Jan 2020).indd 1

20/01/2020 13:15

bishopstonvoice

February, 2020

n NEWS

Bristol prepares for first light festival AT a time of year when dark nights are set in and the twinkle of Christmas lights are a distant memory, there is a new bright light about to shine as the first Bristol Light Festival takes place in the city. From Friday 28 Feb – Sunday 1 March, between 5pm-11pm, the Bristol Light Festival will showcase renowned international light artists alongside Bristol talent across six carefully selected locations to create a trail through the city centre. There will also be an additional preview night on Thursday 27 Feb, when the installations can be seen for the first time, by Bristol businesses and residents. The Light Festival includes some unexpected locations as well as some of the city’s welltrodden paths including Castle Bridge, Cascade Steps, Queen Square, Park Street and Trinity Steps on College Green. At each location, visitors will be able to see, experience and enjoy light art installations that are visiting the South West for the first time as well as brand-new installations created exclusively for the Bristol Light Festival. This is the first of a threeyear series brought to you by Bristol City Centre Business Improvement District (BID), in partnership with Bristol City Council and The University of the West of England. The Festival is being delivered, curated and produced by Bristol based creative directors, Katherine Jewkes and Vashti Waite.

Pink Enchantment makes its Bristol debut International light artist, Tine Bech will bring her breathtaking and playful installation, Pink Enchantment to Bristol for the first time. As a former UWE graduate and current resident at the Pervasive Media Studio, Bech originally designed the installation for Bristol while studying for her PhD at UWE – she has showcased it internationally but this will be the first time the installation has been exhibited in the city for which it was intended. This interactive light installation will transform Castle Bridge, immersing those walking across it in an ethereal pink light as they cross the water. Activated by people walking across the bridge, bursts of pink fog are omitted, and lights illuminate the way, creating an immersive experience which inspires and intrigues audiences both on the bridge and from afar. Play time in Queen Square

Wave-Field Variation Q created by Lateral Office and CS Design with soundscape by Mitchell Akiyama, will feature in Queens Square, offering the perfect opportunity for visitors to the Bristol Light Festival to have fun with family and friends. Originating in Canada, the collection of eight giant, illuminated see saws will create a truly interactive and fun light installation that is ever-changing. As the see saws are played on, lights and music are activated – visitors are invited to partner up and be a co-creator of their own piece of art! Overheard in Bristol In celebration of the city and its unique ways, a four-foot neon sign will be installed by Cascade steps on St Augustine’s Parade with a famous Bristolian phrase shining brightly in the heart of the city - ‘CHEERS DRIVE’ – the perfect backdrop for any Bristolian selfie! Vicky Lee, Bristol City Centre BID project lead said: “We are

delighted to be bringing the first edition of this new winter Festival to Bristol. We have carefully selected the locations to respond to key challenges of the city centre. “The collections of artists involved, and the fantastic installations planned will bring something really special to the city.” Katherine Jewkes, Bristol Light Festival co-director said: “For the first edition of Bristol Light Festival, we have curated a group of fantastic local and international artists who all embody the playful and creative spirit of the city. We are excited to be working alongside the rich and varied talents of Bristol’s unique cultural sector and city centre businesses to create a new Light Festival for the people of Bristol.” For more information and updates about the event please visit www.bristollightfestival. org and follow on Twitter @ BrisCentreBID #Bristollight

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bishopstonvoice

February, 2020

n EDUCATION

Chicago: my kind of town IVY Youth’s next extravaganza is the multiaward winning Kander and Ebb musical, Chicago. Pupils from schools across Bristol make up the talented cast of 14 - 19 year olds, including those attending RGS, Cotham, BGS, Cathedral and Bristol Free School. Watch as they sing and dance their way through some of the most iconic dance numbers styled after Bob Fosse - accompanied by a live professional 14-piece orchestra. Set in Jazz-age Chicago, the musical is based on a 1926 play of the same name by reporter Maurine Dallas Watkins Picture: McPherson Photography about actual criminals and crimes she reported on. The story is a satire on corruption in the administration of criminal justice and the concept of the "celebrity criminal". The show runs from Wednesday 26 - Saturday 29 February at The Olympus Theatre, Filton. For tickets visit TICKET SOURCE and scroll to 'Ivy Arts'. Tickets are priced between £13 and £16.

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To advertise, contact Emma on 0117 9082121 or 07715 770448 or email emma@bishopstonvoice.co.uk. Got news? Email: news@bishopstonvoice.co.uk

bishopstonvoice

February, 2020

n EDUCATION

Fairfield pioneers anti-bullying action IN keeping with the school’s ethos and values, Fairfield High School (FHS) once again recognising and celebrating the importance and significance of Anti-Bullying Week. In conjunction with Unique Voice, Fairfield High School (FHS) was chosen as one of two secondary schools to be the face of this year’s Anti-Bullying Week in the form of a powerful video, shown to its 1,000 student population. The video for Anti-Bullying Week 2019: Change Starts With Us (see www.youtube. com/watch?v=oAmVkVEmOP4&safe=act ive) encourages viewers to look at bullying in a different way, highlighting that every individual should be held accountable for their actions, and that “small changes can lead to something big”. It communicates that “We’re all unique, not one person is the same” and “Say something nice about someone can do a lot”. Commenting on the video, Rose Hooke, Achievement Co-ordinator at FHS states: “I am so proud of our students for taking a stance on this important subject and helping to raise awareness. Anti-Bullying Alliance has used vibrant colours and engaging fonts, words and images to engage its audience, so

we have no doubt that powerful messages delivered in this way will have the desired effect of helping young people all across the country.” On the Tuesday of Anti-Bullying week, FHS also urged students and staff to wear odd socks to demonstrate that everyone is unique and is united in standing against bullying. Areshiya (pictured with friend Shaista) comments: “I wanted to take part in odd socks day because everyone should be proud and happy to be themselves, and nobody should take that away from them. They should not feel insecure about coming to school because they’re different or living in fear of being bullied. “I’ve personally never experienced bullying at school, but if I did then I know it would be dealt with immediately because the staff are really nice and would support you.” Shaista adds: “Our school encourages inclusivity so everyone works together no matter where they’re from or what they believe in. We respect each other. Odd socks day is important because it shows that we’re all different and we shouldn’t try to make everyone the same.”

Life changing Open Morning Thursday 19 March 10.00am–12.00 noon Call Hollie Matthews on 0117 933 9885 To advertise, contact Emma on 0117 9082121 or 07715 770448 or email emma@bishopstonvoice.co.uk. Got news? Email: news@bishopstonvoice.co.uk

Open Days Nursery Friday 31st January Reception to Year 3 Friday 31st January Year 4 to Year 13 Saturday 1st February To book your visit: cliftoncollege.com

n EDUCATION IN January 2010, two days later than planned owing to heavy snow, Bristol Grammar School opened the doors to its Infant School. To mark the school’s tenth birthday this year, BGS Infants held a day of celebration on Friday 10 January, starting with a special assembly. The Infants were joined by former teachers and headteachers and some of the original pupils – now in Year 11 and Sixth Form – who came along to enjoy a trip down memory lane. The assembly was followed by a day of activities, all themed around the number ten. BGS Infants began with just one Year 1 and one Year 2 class and only thirteen pupils. Over the past ten years it has grown considerably; the school has moved from its original home in the Lodge to occupy two buildings on Elton Road, and now has six classes – two in each of Reception, Year 1 and Year 2. It may have got bigger over the years, but lots of things remain the same: the children all still enjoy Forest School lessons at Failand; every child has the chance to learn the violin; there

bishopstonvoice

February, 2020

Now we are ten – BGS Infants celebrates special birthday

are lots of clubs and activities to get involved in – in the ten years of BGS Infants, there have been

more than 100 clubs offered to pupils; and the children still enjoy trips to lots of exciting

destinations to build on their classroom learning. Ten years is not long in terms of Bristol Grammar School’s almost 490 year history, but it has certainly been enough time for BGS Infants to truly become part of the BGS family. Older pupils, especially from the Sixth Form, regularly spend time in the Infant School, listening to children read and helping to run clubs. In return, the Infant children have given assemblies to the Senior School, performing songs from their plays and sharing what they are learning about. Each morning, some of the youngest BGS pupils mingle with the oldest at the Breakfast Club which runs in the Sixth Form Centre. They may only be small, but BGS Infants certainly play a big part in the life of Bristol Grammar School.

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To advertise, contact Emma on 0117 9082121 or 07715 770448 or email emma@bishopstonvoice.co.uk. Got news? Email: news@bishopstonvoice.co.uk

February, 2020

bishopstonvoice

n EDUCATION

UWE and Bristol Sport launch partnership

THE University of the West of England (UWE Bristol) and Bristol Sport are delighted to announce a new partnership, which aims to develop professional development programmes for Bristol Sport staff and athletes, whilst also establishing placement and pathway opportunities for UWE Bristol students. The partnership will also strengthen and develop the strong community links of both organisations, and enable further sports outreach work across Bristol. Group Head of Commercial at Bristol Sport, Caroline Herbert said: “This partnership builds on the fantastic work we already do with UWE Bristol through the Robins Foundation’s undergraduate degree Sports Business and Entrepreneurship, which is based at Ashton Gate. “The mutually beneficial agreement will see UWE Bristol

students and staff receive group ticket rates on matchdays, while opening up internship and placement opportunities within Bristol Sport. “A key focus of our shared vision is to develop local talent – on and off the field –

so the opportunity to deliver professional development courses and pathways for promising athletes is something we care strongly about. “We’re delighted to develop this higher education partnership with UWE Bristol and look

forward to working together for the benefit of the local community.” UWE Bristol Vice-Chancellor, Professor Steve West said: “It’s fantastic to start 2020 with the announcement of our new and exciting partnership with Bristol Sport, an organisation we are very proud to have worked with for several years. Our core purpose is about transforming futures and inspiring people, which are values that also align with the Bristol Sport vision and the community engagement that both our organisations take great pride in. “The opportunity to work closely on shared community projects, develop students, and grow our reputation as a performance hub for exceptional student athletes to excel in their sport is a very exciting prospect, and I look forward to seeing the partnership develop and flourish.”

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February, 2020

n FROM YOUR COUNCILLORS In Bishopston this month... The Ardagh Community Hub opening THE new year-round Community Hub facility at the Ardagh on Horfield Common, incorporating the Cafe on the Common, will be having its grand opening on Saturday 29 February at 10am. This new facility will be a great resource for the whole area and its achievement is a testament to the very hard work that the Ardagh Community Trust have put in to make it happen. Come and join us, alongside the Deputy Mayor and local MPs, to celebrate the opening! Wetherspoons THE planning application to convert 349 Gloucester Road to a Wetherspoons pub has been withdrawn by the applicant. We understand that this is just a formality and that the application will be resubmitted shortly. We know this is a proposal which splits

opinions in the ward – we’ll keep residents informed when there’s an update to give. Blue waste bags RESIDENTS should have received a new blue bag for cardboard recycling. The bags are being introduced to help Bristol increase its recycling rates, freeing up space in the existing green boxes and enabling crews to sort recycling more quickly. Now the bags have been rolled out and the festive season is over, we’d be interested to hear about how using the new bags has been for you. Have you found it’s helped to deal with the extra cardboard generated over Christmas? Have there been any problems in using them? Let us know and we can feed back to Bristol Waste. Double yellow lines COUNCIL officers have informed us

that the double yellow lines being painted near the Cricket Ground have finally been completed! Problems with weather and contractors have slowed this work down a lot, which has been disappointing. However, the lines should all now be in place, improving road safety across the area. If you are aware of any snagging issues or areas where

lines should have been painted but haven’t, please let us know. Please let us know if you have any comments or questions! Tom Brook – Cllr.Tom.Brook@ bristol.gov.uk Eleanor Combley – Cllr.Eleanor. Combley@bristol.gov.uk

In Cotham this month... Digital Parking – council statement “If a resident is unable to access the Internet and has no other options available we will continue to issue them with paper permits. We would urge anyone who requires the service to contact the council’s parking services via 0117 922 2000 for advice. An information leaflet explaining this change has been sent out upon the expiry of the paper ones and further details about the digital change are available at Bristol.gov. uk/parking/get-visitors-permits” This isn’t much help for those without Internet access who might prefer to contact me. It also doesn’t solve the problems of being held on the telephone while phoning in a visitor’s car registration – this and refund issues which I’m still chasing. University changes to community liaison The bi-annual meetings with community groups have been suspended with no indication

if this is permanent. Staff who have helped and attended local meetings have left UoB and I’m working to rebuild my links to get essential messages across. No.9 Bus I’m meeting First Bus and BCC Officers next week to obtain information that is not available to BCC to build up a case for perhaps an hourly evening service, though others have been cut. I’ve questioned the Mayor on this issue at Full Council. New trees/glyphosate-free zone? Another local street has recruited enough residents to keep the street weed-free so that a no-spray deal can be struck with Bristol Waste Company. Hopefully this will join two other defined zones (in Kingsdown) that I’ve managed to negotiate. Are any other streets up for this? Anthony Negus cllr.anthony.negus@bristol.gov.uk /07833 484344

Wood burning stoves set to be banned DO you have a wood burning stove and if so are you aware of how damaging they are in terms of air quality in the city environment? I don’t say this to make anyone feel guilty, many people including myself find comfort in the warmth of an open fire and wood burning stoves have become very popular over recent years at a time when the information that we know now, was not available nor was it high on the political agenda. Some scientists suggest that wood burning stoves may produce more harmful particles than older diesel vehicles, so it really is quite serious. I have received a number of emails from concerned residents in Kingsdown including photographs, showing the pollution caused especially in the evenings and this concern is shared in a number of areas across the city. However as a result of debates and actions at the last full council meeting, it is highly likely that

wood burning stoves will be banned in the medium term, as the Mayor attempts to secure more powers to make such a ban enforceable. With the climate emergency now mainstream news alongside the need for Bristol to mitigate against illegal air quality levels, it is imperative that we all strive to make the necessary changes. Air Apparent are running very popular workshops on air pollution and what residents can do about it, in Bristol and Bath. They advocate installing local emissions monitors (which can easily be attached to the home) to create a more accurate, detailed picture of what is causing which type of dangerous emissions and when. If anyone is interested in attending a workshop please contact me directly and if we have enough people, a workshop can be arranged in the Cotham / Kingsdown area. awbs://airapparentuk. wordpress.com/what-we-do/ Cleo Alberta Lake cllr.cleo.lake@bristol.gov.uk 07584 480531

WE'RE ONLINE TOO! www.bishopstonvoice.co.uk To advertise, contact Emma on 0117 9082121 or 07715 770448 or email emma@bishopstonvoice.co.uk. Got news? Email: news@bishopstonvoice.co.uk

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n FROM YOUR COUNCILLORS In Redland this month... The Spire wall saga - an end in sight at last After years of waiting, repairs are at long last underway on the Spire Hospital wall on Redland Road. It was damaged in an accident and lawyers for the parties involved have been arguing for years about who would reinstate it. Residents have quite rightly been complaining for some time that the pavement has been half blocked and impassable for prams and wheelchairs. Following repeated pressure with council lawyers and ourselves adding our efforts, we are relieved to see that after considerable chasing and many many false starts the various parties’ lawyers have finally come to an agreement and that side of the road should have a fully functioning pavement soon. If you encounter similar problems in your area do let us know.

February, 2020

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Redland Green We are delighted that several ropey benches on Redland Green are due to be refurbished in short order after concerns were raised by Redland Green Community Group and ourselves. One of the wildflower meadows - which had succumbed to thistles - will also be flailed and a new meadow planted in a different location shortly. With the recent wet weather, we have been contacted by several residents about increased flooding and the appearance of potholes. Just so you know, there is a website where these can be reported. See: https://www. bristol.gov.uk/report-a-streetissue. Do report what needs to be fixed in case no one else has! However, we’ve had a fair few complaints that action isn’t always taken as a result, so do let us

Cranbrook Road - a crossing and street changes We’re pleased to report that funding has been allocated for a safer way residents can get across Cranbrook Road at the Cairns Road junction. Already various options have been identified and the most practical one is a midway traffic island that can be located near the crossroads to get school children and others half way across, safely. Other options might have to be less direct and not where they are needed by the junction, so less likely to be used. We realise that the crossing will take some time to implement, as officers have a backlog of projects, so we’re now advising residents on more creative activities they can try in the meantime that could calm the dangerous speeds. We’re also working with residents in several other roads where resident-led initiatives are being considered

to make streets safer and more liveable. New ward projects wanted Do look out for the Bishopston Cotham and Redland Community Partnership meeting on 4 February. The Forum will introduce the process for the coming year’s projects in the wider area of the city. The budget for Area 2 projects across six city wards comes from developers’ contributions to the Community Infrastructure Levy fund. We don’t know how much will be available as it relies on completed local developments but we welcome practical ideas for physical projects and there will be advice at the meeting on how a group can work up a proposal for Redland ward that can compete for funding and the timescale of the process. Fi Hance & Martin Fodor Tel no 0117 352 6155

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February, 2020

n FROM YOUR COUNCILLORS In St Andrews this month... THIS is the first update we are writing to you following the general election result in December. We are extremely disappointed with the outcome nationally, with what looks like five more years of Boris Johnson as prime minister and a large majority for the Conservatives. In our constituency of Bristol West, by contrast, 87.2% of people voted for candidates representing progressive-left parties (Green and Labour). We must continue to do all we can to resist the politics of division and hold the government to account, including on the climate emergency and the future relationship we have with the EU. Thank you to everyone who responded to the recent parking consultation conducted by Bristol City Council (BCC). We will now be discussing the results with the Council, including with regard to whether sufficient support has been expressed for the Council to introduce a new Residents’ Parking Scheme. If so, there will be further

stages of consultation regarding the boundary and design. St Andrews Park play area has recently had some new play equipment installed, following successful funding bids by the Friends of St Andrews Park (FOSAP), and consultation between FOSAP, BCC and the local community. We commend the work of FOSAP in spearheading this project, and they have received many positive comments about the new equipment. However, there have been complaints from some residents about the interactive audio play equipment – Eco Chimes, Bongo Drums and Talk Tubes. These were installed to provide a stimulating creative activity for children, particularly those with mobility issues or special needs who would not be able to make use of the other playground activities. Some local residents have reported that the noise from the musical instruments is too loud, and that they are mis-used by intoxicated

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people during the night. This was discussed at the FOSAP meeting in January, which Cllr Davies attended. FOSAP are going to try to find out from the manufacturers if there is a way of dampening the noise from the instruments, and plan to put up a sign explaining that they are for use by small children only, should be played gently so as not to disturb others and should not be played at night. They will continue to monitor the situation going forward. The February Full Council will be held on Tuesday 25 February 2019 at 2pm in City Hall. This is a meeting where all 70 councillors in Bristol, plus the Mayor, get together to discuss important business regarding the city and Council. This meeting will be the Council’s annual budget-setting meeting, so there will not be a public forum in the usual way, but you can attend the meeting to observe in the public gallery. You can submit statements, but they must relate to the budget and you will not be able to read them out in the meeting. These should be submitted to democratic.services@ bristol.gov.uk by midday on

Thursday 20 February. If you ever have an issue you’d like to raise with your Ashley councillors in person, please do come to our monthly surgery, which is held on the first Friday of each month, from 1pm – 2pm, in the Library within St Pauls Learning Centre (94 Grosvenor Rd, BS2 8XJ).

Mike Davies, cllr.mike.davies@bristol.gov.uk 07584 370 413 Jude English cllr.jude.english@bristol.gov.uk 07584 151 099 Carole Johnson cllr.carole.johnson@bristol.gov.uk 07584 370 414

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February, 2020

n OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY

Understanding dementia A FEW years ago, our staff member Julie Derrick became involved with the Dementia Friends initiative. This was created by the Alzheimer’s Society to help raise awareness of dementia and the small things that everyone can do to help those affected. Julie was initially inspired to get involved with Dementia Friends for personal reasons. She wanted to improve her own understanding of dementia as both her aunt and her nan had been diagnosed with the condition. To start with Julie ran sessions amongher friends and family. She then recognised the benefit that We Care staff could make to customers with dementia if they had a better understanding of the condition and how they can help make a positive difference for them. We Care staff include handymen and women, technical officers and case workers who visit thousands of customers at

home every year, many of whom are living with dementia. Our handyman Wayne took part in a session – he found it really worthwhile. Julie explained that people with dementia sometimes have difficulty with visual confusion, and that the use of contrasting colours can help them to clearly identify different objects. Wayne has since felt more confident to offer people different colour grab rails when he’s been asked to install them, because he now knows a white grab rail on a white wall may not stand out to a person with dementia. Wayne said he’s also more aware outside of work and feels more equipped to help someone if he sees them struggling on the street or in the local shops. We Care Home Improvements have recently been recognised as an organisation that are working towards becoming dementia friendly by the Dementia Action Alliance. We are also aiming to raise

awareness of how our services can help customers living with dementia and their families to make their home environments more dementia-friendly. This could include installing a downstairs toilet eliminating the need to use the stairs as much, making the bathroom safer by replacing the bath with a level access shower, using technology to prompt medication or remind someone of the time and date. Everyone’s experience of dementia is personal to them and it shouldn’t be assumed that what works for one will work for another. It is beneficial to spend time considering future needs as close to diagnosis as possible. This gives the person with dementia the best opportunity to become familiar with changes to their environment before the nature of the condition progresses, and learning new things becomes challenging for them. If you would like to know how we can help you or your

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February, 2020

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HE pruning has begun in earnest and I’m currently around five rows in with 34 left to do. I’m pruning back a little harder than usual in the first ten rows of Pinot noir as I am interplanting with a new red variety in the spring so I need to leave space for the baby vines to grow. Pruning is a peaceful, repetitive task which is quite relaxing but can get a little monotonous after a while. Luckily this year I have the new vineyard puppy to distract me although he doesn’t seem to be a lover of a great outdoors yet and spends most of his time resting in his snuggly bed away from the wind and rain. Hopefully he’ll begin to enjoy it more when the sun finally comes out! This winter does seem to have been particularly wet and dreary compared to other years so who can blame him for hiding. Looking forward to the year ahead I’m hoping for a summer with lots of warmth and the odd bit of rain so the plants don’t get stressed. The vines are dormant until the start of April so it’s only after that point that cold weather and frost can cause damage. Up to that point

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February, 2020

n NATURE WATCH With Dawn Lawrence

AST month I described the 1,000 species challenge: to find 1,000 species in one year, in the 1km map square in which your house is located. I promised to keep you up-to-date with our efforts - after a few short walks my other half got past the 100 mark on… 2nd January! It just shows how many wild species are out there waiting to be counted. A 100 species challenge is worth a try if you

Maidenhair spleenwort fern grows by a drainpipe on Gloucester Road

are a beginner and a good place to start is with the ferns. Ferns add a welcome touch of green to our wintery city. Shady woodlands and rock faces are their natural habitat and in old walls they find a suitable substitute. Another place to look is just under the grilles of street and car park drains – hart’s tongue fern is particularly fond of this strange niche. Hart’s tongue is bright green, hard and shiny and has a “simple” frond - that is an undivided one - unusual amongst the ferns. Their fronds are usually divided to give a feathery look (hence the term “pinna” for their fronds, from the Latin word for feather). Maidenhair spleenwort, common on city walls, is “oncepinnate”, the frond being cut into a row of rounded lobes down each side of the distinctive coal-black central vein. Some species are twicepinnate, where each lobe is cut again down to its individual central vein. An example is wall rue, which can have a slightly blue-green appearance (like the Mediterrannean herb from which it takes its name). Being twice-pinnate gives it the feathery appearance that we usually associate with ferns. Another little fern of our walls which is easy to identify is the rusty-back. Its chubby pinnae are once-pinnate and backed with a fur of brownish scales – it is the teddy bear of ferns. Also common in our area is the male fern; happier in a hedge bottom than on

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a wall, it is one of the shuttlecock types, with a crown of once-pinnate fronds up to a metre long. It is relatively simple to generate a fern of your own. Scoop up some damp garden soil, pop it in a pot and seal inside a clear plastic bag. Put your “fern-generator” into a shady corner and simply leave it. You may have to wait a few months but likely as not you will eventually find tiny fern fronds colonising the soil in the pot. We got a male fern this way, quite by accident (we were trying to propagate a cutting which died). Open the bag carefully and let some air in but continue to protect the fern until it fills the pot and you can then plant it into a shady part of the garden. The spores of ferns are as fine as pollen and are present everywhere; the sheltered conditions inside the “fern-generator” provide them with ideal conditions for growth. Good luck!

Snowdrop festival THE National Garden Scheme starts its year by focusing on snowdrops. This is the fourth annual Snowdrop Festival organised by the National Garden Scheme and our region has three gardens opening to welcome the first signs of spring. Vine House in Henbury is the first and on a wintry day there is nothing better than visiting a garden teeming with one of the earliest flowering plants of the year. Vine House has 1½ acres of garden behind the listed Georgian house featuring mature trees, shrubs, herbaceous borders and a rock stream. The garden was originally planted in the 1940's for year round interest by the Hewer family, and features many unusual plants and trees. The event takes place at Vine House, Henbury Road, Henbury BS10 7AD on Sunday 2 February from 1.30pm - 4pm. Picture courtesy of Myra Ginns

To advertise, contact Emma on 0117 9082121 or 07715 770448 or email emma@bishopstonvoice.co.uk. Got news? Email: news@bishopstonvoice.co.uk

February, 2020

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n WHAT’S ON IN OUR AREA February 8 n Fundraising jumble sale for Sefton Park School. February 8, from 2 - 4pm. Entry 50p for adults, free entry for children. Café selling homemade goodies. Sefton Park School, St Bartholomew's Rd, Bristol BS7 9BJ. Contact - 07791 623737. Tuesday February 11 n The Arts Society Bristol lecture is on "Nefertiti: Images of Egypt's most intriguing queen". Given by Lucia Gahlin at 8pm at Redmaids' High School BS9 3AW. See www. theartssociety-bristol.org.uk Saturday February 22 n Workshop by medium Sharon Bird: Purpose, Practice and Prominence - Mediumship and You. Sat Feb 22 10am4pm. For beginners and intermediates. Westbury Park Spiritualist Church, Cairns Road, BS6 7TH. Tickets £20 - 0117 977 1629. Info: www. westburyparkspiritualistchurch. org Thursday February 27 n The Arts Society Bristol Study Day on "Rococo Silver: the adventures of the owners and makers" given by Ralph Hoyle 9.30am - 2pm at Bristol Golf Club, Blackhorse Hill, Almondsbury BS10 7TP. Cost £44 per guest by prior booking: Email studydaysecs@ theartssociety-bristol.org.uk Saturday February 29 n A charity men’s a cappella gig in aid of St Peter’s Hospice. The Gasmen Collective and Kettle of Fish will be holding a joint gig at St Michael and All Angels church (160a Gloucester Rd.), on leap year day, doors open at 7pm for singing to start at 7:30pm. Enjoy the once in 28 year chance to hear these two excellent local groups while also feeling noble for contributig to a great local charity! Entrance is free, with a suggested donation of £10.

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There will be a cash bar, with all profits going to St Peter’s Hospice. Monday March 2 n The Royal Osteoporosis Society Bristol Support Group will be meeting at 1.45pm in Westbury Methodist Church Hall. The talk will be by Occupational Therapist, Maria Fitzgerald Everyone is welcome.For more information ring 07710 743613.

REGULAR EVENTS IN OUR AREA

Monday n Toddler group at Ardagh Pavilion, Kellaway Avenue, Horfield Common. Ages 0-3, cost £2.50 per family includes refreshments and biscuits. All welcome. Friendly vibrant group just drop in. Contact Kay on 01179426580 for further details. n Redland Wind Band rehearses at Redland Parish Hall, Redland Green at 730pm. We sometimes have vacancies, currently mainly for bass instruments. Go to our website redlandwindband.co.uk for further information and to contact us email us on redlandwindband@gmail. com. Get in touch if you would like to be put on our mailing list or would like to book us for events or fundraisers. n Redland Green Choir meets for rehearsals every Monday 7.30pm-9.30pm at Redland Green School. We sing a wide variety of music. New members welcome: no auditions. For more information, visit redlandgreenchoir.org.uk. or phone 0117 9443042. n Beaufort Junior Badminton Club. Venue: Cotham School Sports Hall, Cotham Lawn Road, BS6 6DT. Date/Time: Mondays from 6-7pm, term time only. Age Group: 11 18 years. All standards. Coaching and club play but also progression to Avon County Teams and senior clubs. Coaches CRB checked and Badminton England qualified. Contact: Penny Shears 0794 101 3514. Email: pennyshears@ googlemail.com n RAFA, City of Bristol branch and club Eastfield Westbury on Trym for ex-RAF and associate members. Skittle Alley, parties and functions. Live entertainment on Saturday evenings. Open Monday to Saturday lunchtimes and evenings. Sundays noon till 5pm. All enquiries telephone 0117 3291913. n Senior Film Club, every third Monday in the month at 2pm St Peter's Hall, The Drive, Henleaze, BS9 4LD. All Welcome. Refreshments £3. Dial-a-ride transport possible by personal arrangement ; 0845 130 1875.

n Redland Green Bowls Club welcomes new members, come along to our club on Redland Green any Monday after 4pm , or book a free taster session with one of our qualified coaches. Jean or Gerry :Tel 9624466 . HALF price membership for the first year (£50) n 8pm Fun Quiz Night: Tv, Film, Music & more! at the Bristol Flyer, Gloucester Road, Bishopston Just £1 to enter n Beginners Yoga Class at Yogawest in Bishopston 11.15–12.30. Iyengar Yoga classes run at Yogawest every day for all levels, with regular foundation courses, gentle classes for older/stiffer people and children's termtime classes. See www.yogawest.co.uk or call 0117 924 3330. n Watercolour Painting Art Classes take place every Monday at Redland Library, between 10.30am and 12.30pm. Each half term course focusses on a new subject each half term. Suitable for beginner and intermediate levels, with some previous drawing experience recommended. For more information or to book, please visit: www.painting.zone. For queries or to add your name to the mailing list, contact Stella Shaw at admin@painting.zone or ‘phone 07791400362. n Bristol Bridge Club - Come and play, there are daily bridge sessions for experienced and less experienced players. Try a free taster session on a Monday afternoon or evening and Wednesday afternoon. Phone the club before coming, Tel.0117 929 1846 or www.bristolbridgeclub. co.uk n Cotham Park Hit at Cotham Gardens, Redland Grove BS6 6PRshow up and exercise outdoorsboost your energy every Monday Wednesday and Friday morning at 9am. All done in 30 mins - suitable for everyone Contact Trish or just show up 07766448330 Tuesday n The Golden Buds is a group aimed at 18 months to 4 year olds and is a fabulous opportunity to be outside with your little ones, digging, playing, finding newts and frogs, watering, singing and making things all in the heart of urban Bristol! Sessions run from 9.30-11am and 11.30-1pm in school terms. We take booking on a term by term basis. Each session costs £5, a second sibling is £2.50 and under 12 months can come along free. For more info, visit: thegoldenhillcommunitygarden.

com n Scottish Country Dancing Get fit with Westbury Scottish Club. Classes for beginners at Leonard Hall, Trinity-Henleaze URC, Waterford Road, Henleaze, (Tel: Tina 0117 9075462). Classes for more advanced dancers at St Peter’s Church Hall, Henleaze, (Tel: Cheryl 0117 9590970). 7.30pm to 9.30pm wscbristol.com n Bristol Harmony West Gallery choir and band sing and play lively church and village music from the 18th century. We are looking for new members, all voices welcome, also all string, wind and reed instruments. No auditions but ability to read music helpful. Meet in the University Staff Club, Woodland Road on the 1st and 3rd Tuesday each month. www. bristolharmony.wordpress.com or ring Colin on 0117 968 6860. Venue tricky to locate so please ring before coming. n Discover Buddhism 8pm every Tuesday. Introductory sessions involve 20 minutes of explained meditation then a short talk on a Buddhist topic. Sakya Thinley Rinchen Ling, 121 Sommerville Road, St Andrews, BS6 5BX. Suggested donation £4/£2. 0117 9244424 n Melody Makers Baby Friendly Choir A fun and friendly daytime choir for ladies running Tuesdays during term time.9:30-11:00am, The Beehive Pub, BS9 4QY. £5 per session, discounts for members. Contact Natalie www.facebook. com/melodymakerschoir 07890393175. n Bristol Brunel Lions Club – We meet on the first Tuesday of every at 7 for 7.30 on the 3rd Tuesday of each month we have a social gathering normally with food. We raise money for charity both locally and beyond through a variety of indoor and outdoor activities. Lots of fun and fellowship raising and spending money for good causes. For more details of how to apply for assistance with charitable activities in Bristol or to become involved in our activities see Bristol Brunel Lions Club on line or contact our Club Secretary Bill O’Neill at lion. bill@virginmedia.com n Two new Knitting and Crochet groups in the local area. All abilities welcome-please do come along to meet and chat with fellow crafters, discuss projects, share ideas, bring along a project and learn a new skill, improve or share yours. There’s no charge or booking required, you only pay for your own refreshments. 1st & 3rd Tuesday of the month, 10.30am-12.30pm, J P Destiny, corner of Kellaway Avenue/Bishop Road. 2nd & 4th Tuesday of the month, 7.30pm-

To advertise, contact Emma on 0117 9082121 or 07715 770448 or email emma@bishopstonvoice.co.uk. Got news? Email: news@bishopstonvoice.co.uk

bishopstonvoice

February, 2020

nW HAT’S ON IN OUR AREA 9.30pm, Eastfield Inn, Henleaze Road. For more information email: brisknitcro@gmail.com or join our Facebook Group ‘Bristol Knitting and Crochet’. n Circle Dance Evenings at The Old Library Eastville, Muller Road BS5 6XP. Last Tuesday evening of the month, 7:30 – 9:30 pm, led by Susannah Temple, £5 donation. Calm & lively, lovely music, beginners welcome, no need for partners. Contact 0117 979 1519, susannahtemple@googlemail.com n Bristol United Walking Football - every Tuesday 10.3011.30 at Horfield Leisure Centre. The beautiful game played at a slower pace for the over 50's. First session free then £3. Contact Keith Gwilym on 07948383536 or e-mail buwfc2018@gmail.com n Japanese Swordsmanship, Aiki Bokutodo in Redland. Every Tuesday at 7pm. Using wooden swords, study basic postures, cutting techniques and individual and paired exercises to explore the essence and ethics of the Samurai Warrior, and strengthen mind, body and spirit. Suitable for all, beginners welcome. Information from Robert Brinkhurst 07967 142148. n The Arts Society Bristol is for those who enjoy the arts and welcomes new members. Activities include lectures by specialists in their field, at 8pm, usually on the second Tuesday of the month, September to May at Redmaids' High School BS9 3AW. More information is on our website www. theartssociety-bristol.org.uk n Keep fit with dance moves – at Horfield Baptist Church, 279 Gloucester Rd/ Brynland Ave, BS7 8NY, Tuesday mornings, from 10:15 – 11:15 am and Filton Community Centre, Elm Park, BS34 7PS, Tuesday afternoon, from 2pm – 3pm. Improve your mobility, strength, co-ordination and general wellbeing. Have fun, challenge yourself and feel more confident, keeping fit to music. The class also includes body conditioning and seated exercise. Working at your own pace, the class is suitable for all abilities. Come along and make new friends at this very friendly class. Pay as you go at £4 per session. Wear comfortable clothing and appropriate footwear. For further information contact Eileen Scott, on 07969929733, or email, scottyartois@ hotmail.com and visit the website http://www.keepfit. org.uk for more info about our organisation. n Bishopston, Horfield and Ashley Down Local History Society

(BHALHS), meet every third Tuesday of the month, except January, August and December. Meetings are held at Horfield Quaker Meeting, 300 Gloucester Road BS7 8PD at 7.30pm. Visitors fee is £4.00, which includes tea, coffee and biscuits. n The Gloucester Rd WI meet on the third Tuesday of every month at St. Andrew’s Bowling Club, Derby Road, Bristol, BS7 9AQ. Doors open at 7:30pm for 8pm start. Membership is £42 for the year or you can come as a guest for £5 to try us out. Our website https:// gloucesterroadwi.org/ has details of our programme. All women welcome. n Time to Move gentle exercise classes for older people, sitting and standing, all to music. A great range of exercises to improve flexibility, balance and strength. Time for a cup of tea and chat afterwards. At Redland Club, Burlington Rd, BS6 6TN, Tuesdays 10-11am, £4 per session. Help with transport costs too if needed. tel: Michele 07981 756965 Supported by Bristol Ageing Better Community Fund. Wednesday n Golden Hill Community Garden. 10.00am – 4.00pm. Come and get involved in your local community garden! No experience necessary and kids welcome. Learn about growing and relax in our beautiful space with a cup of tea. No need to come every week or stay all day. Our site is wheelchair accessible including our toilet. For more information contact Lucy ghcgarden@gmail. com or 07506 905 394. We’re just through the gates at the end of Monk Rd BS7 8NE www. thegoldenhillcommunitygarden. com n Bristol Voices Community Choir always welcomes new members, £6 per weekly session (£4 concs). We offer a free taster week to people who are interested in joining. We meet during the school term from 7.30pm to 9.30pm in St Werburgh’s Primary School, James Street, BS2 9US. No experience is necessary, there are no auditions and you don’t have to read music. We are led by the wonderful music director Jeremy Avis and our repertoire includes classical, gospel, world music and popular song. Find out more at www.bristolvoices.org.uk n Horfield Townswomen’s Guild. This friendly Townswomen’s Guild meets on the second Wednesday of each month at Upper Horfield Community Trust premises at Eden Grove church in Horfield at 2.30pm. Why not come along and meet us? Just turn up, or ring Edna on 949 5413, and she will look out for you. n Squirrel Camp Forest School, Badock’s Wood, 9.45-11.15 and

1.00-2.30 (during term time). £6 per family. Contact: jennysanderson@ blueyonder.co.uk. n Spiritual Healing at Westbury Park Spiritualist church BS6 7TH Every Wednesday, 2pm - 3.30pm every week. No appointment necessary, animals welcome. Come along and feel the benefit. Also healing after Sunday evening service@8pm. n Yoga Class at Yogawest in Bishopston 09.15–10.30 Beginners, 10–11.30 General. Iyengar Yoga classes run at Yogawest every day for all levels, with regular foundation courses, gentle classes for older/stiffer people and children's termtime classes. See www.yogawest.co.uk or call 0117 924 3330. n Wednesdays 10:00am. Baby & Me post-natal yoga class, 10:00 11:00am plus tea and chat after. Supportive, friendly class with babies made very welcome. Move, breathe, meet and chat with other new mums at YogaSpace Bishopston. Find out more at www. bristolyogaspace.co.uk or contact Clara hello@bristolyogaspace.co.uk / 07530 053 543. n Read together a short story and poem. Weekly drop-in adult group, shared reading. It's fun, sometimes surprising, moving and exciting. No preparation, just come along and listen. Bishopston Library, every Wednesday 11.30am to 1.00pm. We read and chat. Refreshments provided. Free. n Why not join welsh national opera Friends. We support this world class company and everyone is very welcome to join. We offer monthly evening meetings at Redmaids High School MONTHLY at 7.15pm. Talks with music. Costs-£7.00 or £1.00 for students (Friends £5.00). For further information contact: Margaret Borkowski:borkmail@gmail.com n Melody Makers Pop Choir. An evening choir for men and women singing popular songs. Wednesday's term time 7:30-9:00pm The Eastfield Inn, Henleaze. Book a FREE taster www. melodymakerschoir.co.uk n A chance for the over-50's to explore short stories, articles and the occasional poem at Bishopston Library. We meet every Wednesday afternoon from 2.30pm - 4pm for reading and discussion. Our friendly, long-running group is led by an experienced Literature tutor. Why not come along and meet us? n Westbury Park Women's Institute meet on first Wednesday of the month at 7.30pm in Redland Church Hall, Redland Green Road, BS6 7HE. New members welcome,

or come as a guest (£4 per visit up to 3 visits allowed) We are a friendly and sociable Club, have a full programme with interesting speakers, social events, theatre outings, and we all have lots of fun. Email: wesburyparkwi@gmail.com or visit www.westburyparkwi.org. uk for more details. n Wednesdays at 10.30am Buddhist Meditation - use a simple technique to help the mind rest in the present and give space for reflection. Sakya Thinley Rinchen Ling, 121 Sommerville Road, St Andrews, BS6 5BX. Suggested donation £2. 0117 9244424 n Sound of Song ( a Choir for Female Voices) meet in Horfield URC, Church Hall, Muller Road on Wednesdays 7.30 - 9.30pm. Repertoire covers classical, choral, jazz, popular, folk, and show songs. No auditions necessary. www.soundsofsongchoir.com n North West Bristol Camera Club are an enthusiastic group of amateur photographers who meet each Wednesday at 7.45pm at Westbury Fields, Greystoke Avenue. New members of any level of ability are most welcome. For details contact Neville on nevwgoodman@ mac.com n Feeling a bit under the weather? Come join our fun informal singing group. The WECIL Peer Support Singing Group meet fortnightly on Wednesdays at The Elmgrove Centre, Redland 2.00pm till 3.00pm. For more information contact peersupport@wecil.co.uk / 0117 947 9942. The peer support community is very informal, they hope to appeal to what you want to do and can encourage you to come along because it’s fun, relaxing and most of all friendly! n Women's Walking Football session every Wednesday from 6-7 p.m. at Horfield Leisure Centre. Contact Keith Gwilym on 07948383536 or buwfc2018@ gmail.com n Mindful Stitching Drops ins - all materials included (7pm - 9:00pm - £10 per session) nbcp84@ gmail.com 160 Gloucester Road, Bishopston, Bristol BS7 8NT

PILATES Strengthen, stretch and feel fabulous! Stay strong and supple this winter in a beautiful, conveniently located Pilates space. Friendly dropin, personalised classes suitable for all levels, men and woman. £10 per class all equipment provided. Classes held at The Sanctuary, 2 Zetland Road, BS6 7AE Wednesdays 6:30pm-7:30pm Thursdays 6pm-7pm. Contact Sarah on 07815 944 341 for more information

To advertise, contact Emma on 0117 9082121 or 07715 770448 or email emma@bishopstonvoice.co.uk. Got news? Email: news@bishopstonvoice.co.uk

bishopstonvoice

February, 2020

n WHAT’S ON IN OUR AREA n Bristol Bridge Club New Weekly “Drop In Wednesday” - social bridge Starting Wednesday 8 February, 2020 Everyone is welcome to play bridge In this new relaxed format. No membership needed - come to play, watch, chat...just drop in with or without a partner. Open from 6 to 11 pm £3.- table money on the night. Licenced bar, hot drinks and bar snacks available For further information, email: hello@bristolbridgeclub.co.uk Or phone the bridge club 0117 9291846 Thursday n Bishop Road Community Choir. We are a mixed community choir, meeting at Bishop Road School from 7.45pm to 9pm. Everyone welcome to join, regardless of singing experience. There is no audition and the choir is open to anyone, not just parents of children at the school. We sing a variety of songs and perform locally. £3.00 per session. n The Stepford Singers. Come and try Bishopston’s all female community choir. No need to read music and no auditions! We meet 1pm - 3pm so you can still be in time to pick up kids from school. For more info, email fran@ naturalvoice.net n West Bristol Orchestra meet at the United Reformed Church, Muller Road, from 7.15 - 9.15pm and play a wide range of classical music arranged for our small friendly orchestra. String players of Grade 5 and above are particularly welcome. For further information please ring 0117 968 3998. n Avon Harmony Ladies A Cappella Chorus meets for rehearsals every Thursday 7.30 -10pm at Fairfield High School, Allfoxton Road BS7 9NL. We are always made welcome, and we are actively recruiting new members. There is no need to be able to read music; we provide teaching tracks for learning by ear. See our website for more details www.avonharmony.co.uk or contact Mandy on 0117 652693 or Barbara on 07717 424421. n Kings Lawn Tennis Club Rusty Rackets, 19:30-21: 00. Want to get back into tennis? Come along to our fun and welcoming Rusty Rackets session every Thursday evening at Kings Lawn Tennis Club, Maplemeade ( just off Kings Drive) BS7 8JG. Nonmembers (£8) and members (£6) welcome! Contact Head Coach Elly Shearman only tennis .kings@hotmail.com for more details! n Bridge for Beginners and Improvers West of England Bridge Club now welcomes new/novice bridge players for weekly sessions held every Thursday afternoon. Cost £3. Doors open at 1.45pm and play is from 2.00pm to 4.00pm.

No partner needed and we have experienced players to help and advice. Beginners lessons also offered email bridgeclassbristol @ gmail.com or ring 0117 2302694 for more info. Venue: Golden Hill Sports Club, Wimbledon Road, Bristol BS6 7YA. Full details at www. woebc.co.uk n Spiritualist church Westbury Park Cairns Road BS6 7TH Open development circle Thursday evening at 7.15 for 7.30 start All are welcome. n Sporting Memories Group at the Gloucestershire County Cricket Ground most Thursdays from 11am to 12.30pm. A group suitable for people that are isolated or lonely and may have memory difficulties. The group is particularly for those that are interested in sport. Please contact John Collis on 07757527634 or come along to the ground from 11am. n North Bristol Community Project Arts Fringe: Arts for Well-being, Thursdays 10am-12pm. Well-being Lunch Club, Thursdays 12.30-2pm. 10 week Sewing for Employability course, Mondays 10am -12pm; now taking bookings for the next sewing course starting on January 8 2018. The 10 week sewing course & the Lunch Club are FREE. For all other activities, there is a fee of £10 towards the cost of basic materials, tuition & refreshments. 160 Gloucester Road, Bishopston, Bristol BS7 8NT, Tel: 0774 237 7799 /0117 924 6228, www. northbristolcommunityproject. org.uk n Read together a short story and poem. Weekly drop-in adult group, shared reading. It's fun, sometimes surprising, moving and exciting. No preparation needed, just come along and listen. Bishopston Library every Thursday 11.30am - 1.00pm. We read and chat. Refreshments provided free. n Healing Drop In Session with Bristol Healing Group at Redland Meeting House 126 Hampton Road BS6 6JE. NEW TIME: 2.30 4.00 pm. Donation basis. Healing is relaxing. Helps restore balance and wellbeing. Recommended for stress. Contact: Barbara on 0117 9082061. (Closed 19th & 26th December and 2nd January). n Henbury Singers welcome new members. A mixed, non audition choir, we meet at Stoke Bishop Primary School, Thurs evenings. We sing choral music, carols, musicals, gospel and folk songs. Contact Maggie Cavanna 0117 973 4794 or secretary@henburysingers.org. n"Time to Move" Stay Active Movement to music for over 55's. All abilities welcome, improve balance, mobility and well being. Friendly, supportive and fun. Thursdays 10-11am (tea and biscuits afterwards) £7,

commencing 13th September at Redland Club, Burlington Road, BS6 6TN. Contact Michelle 07505 937156 n Singers Wanted! Henleaze Ladies Choir meet on Thursdays at 1.45pm in the hall at St Peter’s Church, Henleaze. We sing a range of music from works by Elgar to Bernstein’s West Side Story and lots more! Our new season starts on Thursday 13th September – come along for fun and friendship. For further details, contact Jean Wickham on 9624466 or Jane English on 07752 332278. n North Bristol Community Project - Arts for Well-Being / Try a range of activities from Cartooning Sculpture - Drawing - Painting - Collage and much more or focus on 1 area for the 4 Weeks 10:00 12:00pm ( Four week course £60). Pre-booking essential, e-mail nbcp84@gmail.com for more information. Costs include all materials & refreshments Maximum of 6 people. 160 Gloucester Rd, Bishopston, BS7 8NT. www. northbristolcommunityproject. org.uk. n With BRISTOL MALE VOICE CHOIR you can sing every week from 7pm to 9.30pm during our rehearsal evenings held in St Andrew's Church, Filton, BS34 7PS, on the A38 near Filton roundabout. You will get a very warm welcome and can look forward to learning a very wide range of music with us; we provide learning tracks for practice and you do not need to read music to sing with us. You will eventually be able to sing in our regular concerts and travel with us to many different venues. Contact 07941 040472 for more information. Come and join us! n Arts for Wellbeing Drop ins - Try a range of activities from Drawing, Painting, Print Making, Collage and stitching (1:00pm - 3:00pm - £5 per session). Small groups nbcp84@ gmail.com 160 Gloucester Road, Bishopston, Bristol BS7 8NT

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

n Spanish Conversation Classes – Learn basic Spanish language or improve conversation skills (6:15 - 7:15pm – 4 sessions £45 – 8 sessions £80) nbcp84@gmail.com 160 Gloucester Road, Bishopston, Bristol BS7 8NT n Scottish Country Dancing come to Dance Scottish with RSCDS Bristol on Thursdays at 7.30pm in term time at Oatley Hall, St Monica’s Trust, Cote Lane, Westbury-on-Trym BS9 3UN. New dancers welcome, come on your own or with a friend for fun, fitness and friendship. No need to wear a kilt or a sash! For information contact Alison on 0117 968 4036 or Caroline on 0117 924 9226 or see www.rscdsbristol.info n Bristol Male Voice Choir has a broad repertoire, performing not just male voice standards, but songs from musicals, pop classics, spirituals, and classical favourites. You don’t have to read music to join but you will enjoy learning our repertoire as we prepare for our concerts and weekend tours. Come along and sample an evening at our regular practice sessions,

Continued on next page

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To advertise, contact Emma on 0117 9082121 or 07715 770448 or email emma@bishopstonvoice.co.uk. Got news? Email: news@bishopstonvoice.co.uk

bishopstonvoice

n WHAT'S ON CONTINUED held at 7.00pm in St Andrew’s Methodist Church, Filton, BS34 7PS. Tel 07587143220 Friday n Bristol University of the third age (u3a) scrabble group would welcome new members. We play very friendly and informal games every Friday at the Beehive, Wellington Hill West, BS9 4QY from 2 to 4pm. For further info please contact Heddy SARA on 0117 9241318 and indicate when asked to give your name that you are phoning about scrabble in order not to be blocked. also email : nigel.d.sara@btinternet.com n The Bristol Astronomical Society host astronomical talks and activities each week. Friday evening talks are held at 7pm at Bristol Photographic Society, Montpelier, BS6 5EE. Our new 2018/2019 programme starts on 5 October with Prof: Mark Birkinshaw: Orbits of many types. On clear Saturday evenings we open our observatory in Failand

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Exercise Movement and LE Dance class AMforPladies

Low impact classes offer dance, exercise and core strengthening. Strengthen muscles, raise energy levels, improve balance and mobilise joints. 6.25-7.30pm at Fairlawn Primary School, Fairlawn Road, Montpelier, Bristol, BS6 5JL. Tel: Rachael at FL Exercise on 07966 418 714 / rachaelwilliams@talktalk.net . Classes run on 5-7 week basis - charged as a block booking (£8 per class -1st Class Free)

and often hold Star Parties in and around Bristol. We are also signing-up for our four-week Junior Astronomy Courses in October and November. See the BAS website for details: www.bristolastrosoc. org.uk n £5 Yoga Class for students and low-waged at Yogawest in Bishopston 16.00–17.15 Beginners. Iyengar Yoga classes run at Yogawest every day for all levels, with regular foundation courses, gentle classes for older/stiffer people and children's termtime classes. See www.yogawest. co.uk or call 0117 924 3330 Saturday n Whiteladies Farmers’ and Fair Trading Market is now held EVERY Saturday, from 8.30am-2pm. Takes place at the junction of Whiteladies/Apsley/Burlington Roads. Stalls cover bread, cheese, local lamb and chicken, fish, preserves, cakes, sushi, local fruit and veg, wild food larder, and recycled tools, wooden items and much more. n Coffee, Tea and Refreshments served every Saturday from 10.30am to noon at Bishopston Methodist Church, 245 Gloucester Road. Join us for a rest and a chat. n The Clifton Garden Society are eager to attract new members from all parts of Bristol. The Society offer monthly visits by coach to country houses and gardens, a quarterly newsletter. and an annual holiday. If you would like to join this friendly group please call 0117 9737296 for full details. n Horfield Friends Café meets every Friday from 2 - 3.30pm. Free drinks and cakes plus fun activities Horfield Quaker Meeting House, 300 Gloucester Road, BS7 8PD. n Lego club at Bishopston library, 12noon to 1pm. All ages welcome, FREE.

February, 2020

n SUSTAINABILITY with

Hamish Wills

Let's get serious IT’S difficult, isn’t it? On the one hand we’re told about ice melt, the warmest decade ever and only a few years left to stop irreversible climate change. But on the other our lives need to carry on. We have to get to work, care for our families, go on holiday and visit people. There wouldn’t be much to life if we didn’t. So what are we doing about it? Probably for most of us not a lot. It's easy and cheap to fly to holiday or business destinations and senior politicians are telling us it's ok to carry on doing that. A large comfortable car is a lot nicer to drive than a small electric job that runs out of energy all the time. Who wants a cold house? Double glazing and proper insulation is more expensive than just paying the energy bills, so we carry on paying them. We all want decent quality food, affordable and convenient to get hold of. What better organisations than supermarkets to do that? Chances are the stuff we hear about climate change isn’t that bad, and anything we individuals do won’t make a difference anyway. Sadly nearly all of that is misguided or wrong. Not the bit about only a few years left, ice melt and the warmest decade ever. That is chillingly true, but we don’t take it seriously because it isn’t immediately obvious, it’s just someone else’s misfortune that crops up on telly. At what point do we start taking it seriously? When do we wake

up and realise we’re only a few short years away from it being everyone’s misfortune? When will we see those bushfires, Californian fires, and Bangladeshi floods as symptoms of what we’re all doing with our energy intense life styles? The truth is we need an about turn right now. We need to learn to stop depending on fossil fuels. Not at some point in the future when most of us who have enjoyed living off them are dead, but now. We don’t have the luxury of time. We have to learn to drive and fly less, not more, demand our taxes are spent helping us insulate our homes and teaching our children, and us for that matter, about climate change. We should stop thinking it's ok to buy cheap, mass produced supermarket food. Perhaps we would if we understood how much diversity industrial farming has removed from our soils, causing most of what we eat to be grown with artificial, petroleum derived fertilisers and chemical poisons. So the question is what big changes will all of us be making this year to reduce our energy use and help make a collective difference? Putting our heads together to think about it might be a good start.

By Hamish Wills Sustainable Redland

To advertise, contact Emma on 0117 9082121 or 07715 770448 or email emma@bishopstonvoice.co.uk. Got news? Email: news@bishopstonvoice.co.uk

bishopstonvoice

February, 2020

n YOGA BLOG Yoga for Health

by Diana Penny

of Yogawest (www.yogawest.co.uk)

Yoga Pose of the Month:

Virabhadrasana 1 (Warrior 1) Virabhadrasana 1 is a sideways standing pose, good for extending the legs and lengthening the spine and side trunk. Warrior poses build stamina and strength. To go in: Stand in Tadasana (Mountain pose). Bring your hands to chest level, inhale and as you exhale jump or walk your legs wide apart and bring your hands to your hips. Turn the left leg in well so that the foot is turned in 60-70 degrees. Turn the right leg out 90 degrees so

that the toes and knee faces away from the body and simultaneously turn the pelvis so that the hips and chest face the right hand side: use your hands on your hips to check the pelvis is level. Keep your legs working strongly, anchoring the back foot to the floor and lifting up through the front leg, lifting the front of the pelvis up towards the chest. Keeping the hips level and the

front pelvis lifting up, bend the right (front) leg to a right angle. Extending upwards through the front body, raise your arms above your head. If there is any discomfort in your lower back, keep your hands on your hips. Stay here for a few breaths. Come out as carefully as you went in, lifting up through the front body and bringing your hips and feet to face forward.

Repeat to the left side. * CAUTIONS If you have a vulnerable lower back, keep your hands on your hips as a modified version. If there is any discomfort in your bent leg knee, keep both legs straight instead. If you are confused about any instructions, then bring along this page to a class at Yogawest and a teacher will help you. Yogawest is just off the Gloucester Road in Bishopston, and has two beautiful yoga studios set in a quiet sanctuary behind Bishopston Hardware. Yogawest specialises in Iyengar yoga, a type of yoga focusing on careful and supported alignment in poses, and offers over 50 classes a week for all levels of ability, including classes for beginners, children, teenagers, gentle (older and stiffer), pregnancy and postnatal. A warm welcome awaits. Drawings by Jess Wallwork, a popular teacher at Yogawest. Jess teaches two gentle classes a week, suitable for older and stiffer people and daytime beginner, general and pregnancy classes.

Expand is a Bristol based building company delivering high quality construction and high standard workmanship with a customer focus.

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RIEN -F

Catherine, Creator of BS3 Helping Others. Age 65. www.agefriendlybristol.org.uk

AGE

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bishopstonvoice

February, 2020

n ADVERTISING FEATURE

The contribution of older people in Bristol Age Proud Bristol is an awareness campaign that challenges perceptions of older people in Bristol and encourages people to feel proud of their age and experiences. A COMMON misconception about older people is that they do not contribute to society. However, far from being a ‘burden’ or a ‘drain’ on society, older people contribute more resources than they use. Research carried out by the Royal Voluntary Service identified that nearly half of people aged 55-74 volunteer, while figures from the Office of National Statistics show that over 50s make up nearly onethird of the entire UK workforce. As a part of the Age Proud Bristol campaign, Bristol Ageing Better has gathered the views of a variety of inspirational people from across Bristol about their

experiences and advice regarding later life. This article features Catherine Wescott (65), Creator of BS3 Helping Others and Zehra Haq (64), CEO of Dhek Bhal. “The average 65-year-old still has an awful lot to offer in terms of wisdom, passion, love, care and, most of all, time.” says Catherine, who set up BS3 Helping Others after asking in a neighbourhood Facebook group whether anyone needed any help. Within 24 hours, she’d received 350 likes and 60 comments. “We must learn to befriend all those whom we meet in our daily lives and never assume that they are ‘OK’. You can do this no matter how old or young you are and no matter where you are - at the bus stop, in a cafe, in a store,” says Catherine. “You’ve got something that someone else needs.” Many older people develop close, supportive relationships with younger generations; from grandparents who look after their grandchildren, to older people who volunteer through

community groups. Catherine has formed bonds with younger people volunteering as a part of BS3 Helping Others. “Lots of youngsters are looking for the company and knowledge of adults and lots of adults are looking for the company of youngsters. We can help each other.” says Catherine. For Zehra, who works full time as the CEO of Dhek Bhal, supporting the community is her lifelong work. Dhek Bhal means ‘to take care of’, and Zehra has been either volunteering or working in Barton Hill since 1986. Zehra has always encouraged the older women she works with to have their say and to inform others. “I tell them, you are very lucky,” says Zehra. “You have a lot of skills and knowledge you can contribute.” Zehra believes it is important for younger and older people to interact and to recognise the contributions each side can bring to their community. In the past, Dhek Bhal has set up intergenerational activities and events with local schools. “I would

like to see older people going into schools more,” says Zehra. “If a school does a cookery class, let older people teach it and show what we can do. Create opportunities for conversations - I think conversations are very important in breaking down barriers and sharing life experience.” As well as the contributions older people make in the workplace and volunteering, it is also important to recognise the unpaid caring roles that many older people undertake. Research from the national charity, Age UK, has shown that one in three people aged over 80 provide vital unpaid care for loved ones in the UK. This is the second article in a series of three, inspired by older people based in Bristol. Find out more about the Age Proud Bristol campaign by visiting www. agefriendlybristol.org.uk or search #AgeProudBristol on Twitter and take part in the conversation about ageism in Bristol.

n MESSAGE FROM AVON & SOMERSET PCC

Thinking ahead to elections

ITH 2020 under way, the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner (OPCC) are thinking ahead to May’s PCC elections. After two exciting, challenging and productive terms as an independent PCC, I have decided I will not put myself forward for re-election. I make this decision with mixed emotions but absolute conviction that, after eight years of working with the police as well as key partners, this is the right decision for the OPCC, the Constabulary and, most importantly, local people. I feel fortunate that I have been able to be part of decisions and projects that have found solutions and pushed boundaries of innovation for the Constabulary and within shared work with our partners in the criminal justice system, local authorities, health service,

charities, community groups, businesses and local residents. I want local people to be assured that we will not be taking our foot off the pedal between now and the elections. I am still your PCC until May and I will be doing everything I can to push forward crucial policing matters to improve the lives of local people in our area. One particular piece I will be focused on in the coming months are the Violence Reduction Units (VRUs). Set up last September, the VRUs are made up of our five local authorities, education, police, clinical commissioning groups, public health departments, charities and community groups. We initially received £1.16m to set up the VRU and the Government has just announced Avon and Somerset will receive a further £1.16m to tackle serious violence among young people in our communities. Over the last few months,

recent cases in our area have involved the conviction of a 14-year-old for manslaughter involving a knife and another 14-year-old was charged with murder in December following the fatal stabbing of a 17-yearold. These cases only reinforces to me how important it is to identify and provide interventions for these young people at a much earlier stage and make them feel part of a society in which they want to contribute in order to stop them taking the wrong path. The additional funding allows us to continue building on the public health approach to tackling the root causes of these terrible offences that have devastating impact on victims, perpetrators, their families and entire communities. We need to be working together to stop young lives being lost or wasted because of serious violence. It is important to be clear this is not a quick fix and taking this

With Police and Crime Commissioner Sue Mountstevens bigger picture approach, which is widely recognised by all partners as the only way to tackle serious violence effectively, is going to need commitment and long term investment. I will be sure to keep you updated on the initiatives that are being rolled out for young people who are at risk of being involved in knife crime or being victims.

To advertise, contact Emma on 0117 9082121 or 07715 770448 or email emma@bishopstonvoice.co.uk. Got news? Email: news@bishopstonvoice.co.uk

bishopstonvoice

n NEWS FROM FRIENDS OF REDLAND LIBRARY Young adult book event features slaves, spies and a ballet shoe IF you need recommendations for young adult fiction, the best people to ask are school librarians. That’s why Friends of Redland Library invited librarians from four local schools to an early December event, to discuss their favourite books in the rapidly developing YA (Young Adult) market. The librarians were: Charlotte Bratt from Redmaids’ High School, Annette Robbins from QEH, Kat Gardner-Graham from Oasis Academy Brightstowe and Charlotte Taylor-Smith from Colston’s School. Talking about books for girls – who apparently are addicted to dystopian fiction – Charlotte Bratt recommended Hope in a Ballet Shoe by Michaela and Elaine DePrince, which tells the true story of an orphan from

war-torn Sierra Leone, who becomes an international ballet dancer. Charlotte said it can be hard to encourage girls to read autobiography or non-fiction but: “There are seven copies of this book in the Redmaids’ library – and I never see them.” There is a trend in YA fiction towards novels in verse, such as One by Sarah Crossan. A story told from the viewpoint of one conjoined twin, this book was Charlotte’s second recommendation. Her choice was enthusiastically endorsed by Kat, who pointed out that the book is a

quick and engaging read, ideal for reluctant readers. Another of Kat’s favourites is A Monster Calls by Patrick Ness, which she says, grips readers from the beginning of the first chapter. She also recommended The Seeds of America by Laurie Halse Anderson, a trilogy about life during the American Revolution, seen through the eyes of three young people born to be slaves. Young readers enjoy book series and Charlotte Taylor-Smith discussed two that are popular with pupils at Colston’s: The Dark is Rising by Susan Cooper, an

February, 2020

exciting story of good versus evil and the CHERUB books by Robert Muchamore, which are child spy thrillers. Another good read for both keen and reluctant readers is A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder by Holly Jackson. “A Year 9 boy said this is the best book he has ever read,” Charlotte said, “and he had told all his friends that they should read it too.” Hooking boys into reading is Annette’s area of expertise and her first recommendation was Anthony Horowitz’s House of Silk. Horowitz is a master storyteller, so if boys have enjoyed his Alex Rider series, they are usually prepared to try House of Silk, which then opens up the world of Conan Doyle’s Sherlock Holmes. Where the World Ends by Geraldine McCaughrean, a novel based on a true story of boys stranded on St Kilda and struggling to survive, was also a hit with the boys at QEH. The book won the Carnegie Medal in 2018, but as Charlotte Bratt pointed out, the Redmaids’ girls hated it. Which just goes to show, school librarians’ experience and expertise is invaluable when choosing books for young adults.

Books and climate change

Upcoming events THE Friends of Redland Library are hosting two events in February 2020. Books That Made Me An Archaeologist is held on Tuesday 11 February when four archaeologists talk about the books that have influenced their life journey. On Thursday 20 February, we host the launch of Jane Shemilt’s new novel Little Friends. Jane will be interviewed by Sam Taylor of Max Minerva’s book shop and she will then answer questions. The novel will be on sale so that you can get your signed copy. Both events start at 7pm and admission is £3 (pay at the door). These events are held in Redland Library and full details can be found on the website https://FriendsOfRedlandLibrary.org.uk/ future-events

THE Friends of Redland Library hosted another in their popular series of Desert Island Books events on January 9th. The theme was Books and Climate Change. The panel comprised Caroline New (Fiction Writer, Green Party Campaigns Co-ordinator and Founder Member of Bristol Climate Writers), Peter Reason (Writer and Emeritus Professor, University of Bath) Nick Hunt (Travel Writer, Freelance Journalist and Editor and Deborah Tomkins (Fiction Writer and Founder of Bristol Climate Writers). A report of this event can be found on the website: https:// FriendsOfRedlandLibrary.org.uk/recent-events

Volunteers required

THE Friends of Redland Library organise lots of events. Reports of these events can be found on the website https:// FriendsOfRedlandLibrary.org.uk/recent-events All these events need volunteers to make them happen. If you want to get involved, please email FriendsOfRedlandLibrary@gmail.com

To advertise, contact Emma on 0117 9082121 or 07715 770448 or email emma@bishopstonvoice.co.uk. Got news? Email: news@bishopstonvoice.co.uk

bishopstonvoice

February, 2020

n MAYOR'S VIEW

Giving voice to folk in need “I was homeless, I was you” – our new campaign to help Bristol’s homeless people “A few weeks ago, me and my daughters moved into a council house. Now we can finally put down roots. I feel like I have my life back.” Lola, aged 40, Barton Hill

S you travel around the city, you may notice posters featuring letters addressed to those who are experiencing or facing homelessness. These letters carry voices that are heard too rarely – the voices of those who have experienced homelessness, reaching out to those who need similar help and support. Their experiences of homelessness are all different, but their message to those who are facing homelessness is the same: you can turn your life around. Ending homelessness in Bristol is one of our major priorities – last year we agreed our Homelessness and Rough Sleeping Strategy,

which will support our efforts to eradicate rough sleeping by 2027. We are also delivering on our promise to provide the homes Bristol needs to tackle our housing crisis. I recently visited one of our new council housing developments in Brislington, and met residents and families whose lives are being transformed by having a safe and secure roof over their heads. We are building affordable homes that will help people such as Lola reclaim control over their lives, in every corner of our city. Reading these letters, however, shows that those who are homeless face a range of different challenges and therefore need different programmes of support. One thing is common throughout the success stories shared by those featured in the campaign – it is crucial to get help early. That’s why our work with city partners to provide a range of support services is so important

in helping people who are experiencing homelessness to find and maintain a safe and secure home. Through schemes such as our welfare rights and money advice services and our Youth Homelessness Hub, we helped more than 3,600 people avoid becoming homeless in 2018. In the same year, Bristol City Council and homelessness support services in the city helped more than 900 people who were homeless through support services like the St Anne’s Winter Night Shelter. We are also supporting residents in private accommodation, by cracking down on rogue landlords and introducing licencing schemes to drive up standards and security in the private housing sector. So if you are worried that you or a family member might be at risk of homelessness, seek help now. Information is available on the Bristol City Council website about the ways we and other agencies in the city can help.

The Mayor’s View Each month Bristol mayor Marvin Rees shares his views with Bishopston Voice

As homelessness continues to increase across the country, I am acutely aware of the difference that a safe and secure home can make to a family like Lola’s. That’s why I have put delivering new housing at the top of the city’s agenda. Families across the city, facing homelessness or living in temporary accommodation, rely on us to deliver safe, secure and affordable homes across the whole of Bristol. I’m proud of this campaign because it shows that we are hearing their message of hope loud and clear.

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February, 2020

n VETS' ADVICE HERE at the Animal Health Centre we are always looking for ways to improve our service to clients and their pets. With this in mind we are now starting a veterinary nurse house visit service. We understand how difficult and stressful it can be to get pets to the practice. From January 13 clients will be able to book for a nurse to come out to their home to carry out routine nurse clinics. The following services can be provided: • Administering flea and worm treatment –It can be quite difficult to give tablets or effectively apply spot-on treatments and the nurses are happy to do this. • Claw clips – It is important to keep your pet’s claws short to stop them growing into the pads and this is particularly a problem for elderly cats. • Express anal glands – Whilst not the most pleasant smelling job, some pets need their anal glands emptying regularly to help them feel comfortable. • Blood pressure checks – To get accurate blood pressure measurements it is important that the pet is as calm as possible.

Vet nursing visits

Readings taken in the pet’s home can increase the accuracy and help to decide necessary treatments. • Blood glucose readings – For diabetic patients, regular blood glucose checks are important for monitoring purposes. • Post-operative checks and suture removal – Routine checks following surgery are necessary to monitor wound healing. • Dressing changes – If your pet needs a dressing for a wound then it will need to be changed every two or three days. Nurses can change dressings either at the

practice or in your home. • Dematts for cats – Cats can get quite matted as they get older and don’t groom themselves as often. They sometimes need a good comb through or a clip with the clippers. • Geriatric clinics and end of life guidance/support – We are aware that as pets get older they need some extra support and their later years can be emotional for everyone involved. Nurses are able to provide guidance and support in how to keep your pet comfortable in their old age. • Weight clinics and nutrition support for cats and small dogs under 20kg (large dogs would need to be weighed at the practice) – Obesity is still a leading cause of health problems for our pets. We strive to provide a service that is as stress free as possible for pets and their owners. Visits allow the nurses to interact with and treat pets in a familiar, calm environment and can be beneficial for spotting problems early as pets

Hannah Dabinett, Veterinary Nurse tend to display different behaviour at the practice, which can mask health problems. Whilst nurses cannot diagnose your pet, they can suggest an appointment with the vet for a full check up including any necessary investigation. Visits are available throughout the week by appointment so please call the practice on 0117 924 7832 to book your visit.

Gloucester Road’s Independent Veterinary Practice 358 Gloucester Road, Horfield, Bristol BS7 8TP 0117 9247832 www.animalhealthcentre.org

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February, 2020

n BISHOPSTON LIBRARY BOOKS OF THE MONTH

Afropean

by Johny Pitt Johny Pitts is a black writer, photographer and journalist. In 2018, Johny spent five months travelling across Europe, documenting and recording the life stories of black people, often forced to work unsocial hours for a minimum wage. He meets and gets to know taxi drivers, artists, musicians, nightclub bouncers, waitresses, shop assistants, security guards and cleaners in Paris, Brussels, Amsterdam, Berlin, Stockholm, Moscow, Rome, Marseille & Lisbon. His book is a revealing and empathetic account of how Europeans of African descent are living their lives, often struggling

with plural identities with their loyalties torn between two continents. Along the way, we learn about the mixed heritage of Alexandre Dumas, whose grandmother was a Haitian slave and whose father served in the French army as a black general. We experience the realities of life in a Cape Verdean squatter camp on the outskirts of Lisbon and discover how it feels to be a muslim growing up in Stockholm. Johny shows us how black lives are having a positive role in reshaping European identity, despite the rising tide of xenophobia and racism. The title of the book describes the music of Marie Daulne, a Belgian Congolese vocalist who uses her music to bring the African and European cultures together. As Marie says, neither culture dominates my life or my music, and that is how it should be. I take what I have as a European and what I have as an African. First I am a human, next an musician and finally an Afropean, in that order.

Doxology

by Nell Zink Doxology is the story of Flora, born and raised in a rundown apartment

in the Lower East Side of New York City. Following the 9/11 Twin Towers attack, nine year old Flora is moved to Washington DC to live with her grandparents, where she enjoys an expensive private school education. At school, Flora becomes interested in ecology and conservation after exchange visits to Ghana & Costa Rica. She participates in a soil degradation project in Ethiopia where her ambition to be an ecological warrior is sorely tested by cynical aid workers. Returning home, Flora experiences several romantic encounters including an affair with her college professor. She meets Bull Gooch, a media consultant and they embark on a two year

relationship against the backdrop of the Clinton/Trump presidential race, where Flora is employed by The Greens as a national organiser whilst Bull assists the Clinton campaign. Whilst campaigning on the road, Flora meets Aaron, a Clinton volunteer and they become lovers. She receives a positive pregnancy test and has to decide whether she wants Bull or Aaron to help her bring up her unborn child. Doxology is an enjoyable read, addressing several topical issues including climate change and populist politics as well as documenting the coming of age of Flora. For these books and many more, visit us at Bishopston Library. If we don’t have exactly what you’re looking for, there are over 2 million items from which you can reserve across LibrariesWest and collect from any library of your choice. Opening Hours: Monday 1–7pm Tuesday closed Wednesday 11am-5pm Thursday 11am-5pm Friday 11am-5pm Saturday 11am–5pm Sunday closed

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To advertise, contact Emma on 0117 9082121 or 07715 770448 or email emma@bishopstonvoice.co.uk. Got news? Email: news@bishopstonvoice.co.uk

February, 2020

n PROPERTY

bishopstonvoice

Bishopston £475,000 An impressive 3-bed three story home forming part of the Allen House development in Bishopston has just come to the market. Allen House is close to St Andrews Park, St Werburghs City Farm and Gloucester Road, with its mix of restaurants, cafés and shops. The property benefits from manicured communal gardens and allocated parking. The accommodation offers a good sized kitchen/diner with a large window that overlooks the garden, a reception room and grand hallway space.

201 Gloucester Rd, Bristol BS7 8BG Phone: 0117 942 5855

n INSIDE OUT

HE grey, cold darkness of February can feel eternal, with the light that sustains our good mood so elusive. To cheer everyone up and beat SAD through blogging I thought I’d focus on light, and the brightly coloured lampshades of local designer Hannah Redden. Winter lends itself so well to indoor activities and learning new skills, and Hannah not only makes lampshades but teaches others how to do it too, so they can light up the dark and dingy corners at home. There’s nothing quite as powerful as mindful, hands on activities to help banish the blues, something Hannah herself knows only too well. “I HAVE to create things to keep me sane,” she says. Crafting for the home is perfect for long wintery evenings, also helping you to be one step ahead of the incoming spring clean when interior decorating is traditionally approached with renewed vigour. I asked Hannah how difficult it is to get started with lampshade making. “Standard drum lampshades are pretty straightforward to make. You cover panels with your fabric, then the tricky part is rolling the panel around the ring sets.” Hannah also makes more advanced shades for

private clients, which can be a real labour of love. “I’ve just finished a commission for a tapered square lampshade, that was tricky! The original frame was to be salvaged and I spent 3hrs hand peeling the glue and velvet trim from the frame before I could even start recovering.” As a vintage lover and qualified textile designer Hannah encourages the use of reclaimed and repurposed fabrics like sari silk for example, loves meeting her workshop participants and finding out what fabrics they choose to create their shades with. The next lampshade workshops are on the last Thursday of each month at Creative Space, North Street in South Bristol - and keep your eyes peeled for forthcoming macramé lampshades workshops too! February, Thursday 27, 7 - 9pm - Floor Standing Lamp March, Thursday 26, 7 - 9pm – Small and Medium Lampshades April, Thursday 30, 7 - 9pm – Large and Extra Large Lampshades Visit www.hannahredden.co.uk for more information. Zoe Hewett www.stylemongersofbristol.co.uk

with interior designer Zoe Hewett

To advertise, contact Emma on 0117 9082121 or 07715 770448 or email emma@bishopstonvoice.co.uk. Got news? Email: news@bishopstonvoice.co.uk

bishopstonvoice

February, 2020

n NEWS

n NEWS FROM FRIENDS OF BISHOPSTON LIBRARY

Toot your horns!

COME along on Friday 31 January and enjoy a preview of local theatre group the Kelvin Players’ forthcoming production The Children by Lucy Kirkwood. They will perform a short scene, followed by a Q&A session. The play tells the story of two retired nuclear scientists forced to move to a small cottage after their home is flooded. Their existence is shattered when a work colleague from the past tracks them down with an offer they struggle to refuse. Intrigued? Come along to find out more; if this whets your appetite, you can book to see the play at the Kelvin Studio from 1115 Feb 2020.

ARE you an early stages saxophone player around grade 3? A new saxophone group is starting up with a teacher on Friday afternoons weekly from 2.30 - 4pm. If you are interested in joining contact Katharine on 07769 716576.

Motorcycle adventures THE next meeting of Bristol Advanced Motorists features Alan Freke who will be talking about his 60 years of bodging! Alan says: “Since I was 14 years old, I've been messing about with old motorcycles (and three wheelers), and from an early age I became an expert at bodging things to make them work. I still own the first bike I bought in 1957 - a 32cc Cyclemaster.” Come to hear his talk of tales of long eventful journeys on ancient bikes, delivering blood, strange coincidences and the occasional accident! BAWA Club, Southmead Road BS34 7RF, 7.15pm, Tuesday 28 January.

for an occupying soldier. Can she truly love someone who is her enemy, and will there be a happy ending? Find out more about how Kerry researches her novels and ask about her other books.

Lucienne Boyce talks about her award winning Dan Foster Mysteries on Friday 20 March. The thrillers are set in the eighteenth century featuring the exploits of Bow Street Runner and amateur pugilist Dan Foster. Lucienne is a well-known local writer of historical fiction, non-fiction and biography, and is also a big fan of libraries and the Friends groups that support them. The event starts at 7.30pm, doors open at 7.15pm, tickets cost £3. There will be a cash bar selling alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks – note that we accept Bristol pounds. We have two lunchtime sessions for anyone who doesn’t fancy coming out on dark evenings or just wants to be entertained during their lunch break. On Friday 14 February there is a romantic theme, when local author Kerry Postle talks about her historical novel, A Forbidden Love. Set in the humble town of Fuentes during the Spanish Civil war, Maria falls

TO LET

OFFICE / STUDIO / WORKSHOP 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

Tel: 0117 9422152

Both lunchtime sessions run from 1 – 2pm in the library meeting room. Book in the library, through

contacts below, or turn up on the day - but please note that there is limited seating; tickets cost £3 including a hot drink or fruit juice. Our Games evenings for adults are well underway, offering a sociable evening with the chance to play a variety of traditional and modern board and card games. We have a range of games, but please bring any favourites along with you, and either find fellow fans or introduce new ones. Next events are Wednesday 29 January; Tuesday 11 March; Wednesday 26 February; Tuesday 10 March and Wednesday 25 March. Each evening costs £2 which will go towards buying more games, and self-service low cost hot drinks are available. There is no need to book, just turn up from 7pm, last entry 8.30pm. We will again be celebrating World Book Night (the grown up version of World Book day) on Thursday 23 April. This will be an evening of book talk, sharing views about books that have inspired us, those that made us laugh or cry, books from childhood and even those we just didn’t get (or didn’t get through). More details to follow. If you’re thinking of getting into family history this year, book a free individual one hour session in the library. You will find out how to use Ancestry, learn about the records available and the best search methods and then send your discoveries home. Suitable for beginners, please leave your name at the library desk to arrange a convenient time. You can join the Friends, find booking information for events, and support the library at facebook.com/bishopstonlibrary, at bishopstonlibrary.org.uk or contact us at friends@bishopstonlibrary. org.uk.

Graham Cook Gardener and handyman

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To advertise, contact Emma on 0117 9082121 or 07715 770448 or email emma@bishopstonvoice.co.uk. Got news? Email: news@bishopstonvoice.co.uk

bishopstonvoice

February, 2020

n CRICKET

Payne extends contract to 2023 GLOUCESTERSHIRE’S reigning bowler of the year David Payne has signed a contract extension that will see him remain at the Club until the end of the 2023 season. The club’s longest serving player, he marks his tenth season as a professional with a new deal that guarantees his time at Gloucestershire for at least four

more seasons. David shared his excitement about the new deal: “I’m very pleased to be able to extend my stay at Gloucestershire. It’s a really exciting time for the club, both on and off the field, so it was a no brainer for me to commit here and try to bring more silverware back to Bristol. “I’m still extremely motivated

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Kevin Gapper Roofing We cover all aspects of roofing work

• Tiled roofs • Flat roofs • Lead roofs • Installation of Velux Windows • Timber works 10 year guarantee with all new roofs Local Bristol family run roofing business with over 20 years experience From planning to end product

T: 01179 510319 or 07872 484994 W: kevingapper@me.com

DRIVEWAYS

AGL DRIVEWAYS Tarmac & Block Paving

• A wide range of colours & patterns • Local Keynsham family run business for 50 years • All work guaranteed • Free estimates

Tel: 0117 9860485 or 07831 453821 www.agldrives.co.uk

To advertise, contact Emma on 0117 9082121 or 07715 770448 or email emma@bishopstonvoice.co.uk. Got news? Email: news@bishopstonvoice.co.uk

bishopstonvoice

46 CLEANING

ELECTRICAL SERVICES

February, 2020 HANDYMAN

Handy Man Services

• Hang • Repair • Plumb • Assemble • Install • Fix • Replace • Paint Experienced, reliable, friendly Jobs big and small

Contact Gary 07984 614108 ELECTRICAL SERVICES

Call Nick on 0117 2872082

HEALTH

Based at: BCMB, Lower Ground Floor, 109 Pembroke Road, Clifton, BS8 3EU

0117 303 9000 ELECTRICAL SERVICES

FLOORING

NIGHT & DAY

atom electrical

LOCKSMITHS

specialist domestic installers

24HRS

All types of domestic electrical work undertaken, from changing a light fitting to full rewires.

Contact Dave Staynings

For an efficient, friendly, reliable, local electrical service...

0117 925 6828

call Oliver on 07747866436 or 01179602974

FREE Quotations

Mobile:

07765 208690

www.atomelectrical.co.uk info@atomelectrical.co.uk

ELECTRICAL SERVICES

GARDENING SERVICES

D. ATTWELL

Free Quotes Inspection and Testing Landlord Certificates New builds and Extensions Extra Sockets and Lights Fire Alarms, Smoke Detectors

www.ElderwoodElectrical.com Office - 0117 9322379 Mobile - 07725 058581

LOCKSMITHS

LANDSCAPING & TREE SERVICES For All Garden Works Patios – Decking Gravelling – Fencing Wood Chippings – Jetwashing Foliage Removed – Roots Destroyed Garden Walls & General Building

• FULLY INSURED • LICENSED WASTE CARRIER

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

LOGS FOR SALE

LOGS FOR SALE STILL ONLY ONLY £70£65 perper dumpy bag

(thebig bigones ones builders builders get in)in) (the getsand sand

LOG BURNER LOG FRIENDLY SIZE

(Stock (Stock up up NOW NOW for for Winter) Winter) Telephone Chris Telephone Chris Allcock Allcock

07770 754 07770 754622 622(mob) (mob) 01275 373562 01275 373562 (Please the mobile) mobile) (Please use the

To advertise, contact Emma on 0117 9082121 or 07715 770448 or email emma@bishopstonvoice.co.uk. Got news? Email: news@bishopstonvoice.co.uk

Classic & Natural stone tiles

February, 2020 Specialising in Italian showers

High Quality Finish Free Quote Bristol & Surrounding Areas

Contemporary & Provençale kitchens Interior & Exterior Masonry & DECORATING PAINTING Interior & façade painting

Renovation Painter Tiler Decorator

Builder & Interior Decorator

17 Years Experience Tiling Interior & Exterior Masonry E: dacriscobuilder3@gmail.com Interior & Facade T: 0117 401 8568 / 07557 335 956 PaintingDacrisco Builder No Job Too Small Free Quote 17 Years Experience

T: 0117 431 2726 / 07557 335 956 E: dacriscobuilder9@gmail.com

PAINTING & DECORATING

Stephen Carter Painter & Decorator

bishopstonvoice PLUMBING

T M HOBBS ROOFING

Phone: John Keegan 125 Bishop Rd, Bishopston, BS7 8LX

Pitched or flat roofs repaired or replaced Guttering & Cladding, uPVC Fascias & Soffits Chimneys, flashings & parapet walls repaired Skylights & Veluxes Installed Insurance Work Undertaken • Free Estimates Minor work welcome

From a dripping tap upwards Reliable, qualified, fully insured

elfontanero@hotmail.co.uk www.jpkplumbingbristol.co.uk

07900 582 817 • 0117 924 7286 PLUMBING

The Bristol Plumber Bathroom & Kitchen Installation

Painting & Decorating Association

5+ Years Experience, Tiling, Bathroom Fitting, Kitchens, Radiators, All Small Jobs

Accredited (with PDA guarantee) For a free competitive quotation:

No VAT, Free no obligation quote

07786 513788 or 0117 907 6997

07540607626

Cranside Avenue, Redland, BS6 7RA

PLUMBING

COPPERMILL HEATING PLUMBING & HEATING ENGINEERS • CENTRAL HEATING INSTALLATION & REPAIR • GAS, OIL & LPG • P O W E R F L U S H I N G • LANDLORD CERTIFICATES • BOILER SERVICING • PLUMBING INSTALLATION & REPAIR

FREE ESTIMATES

CALL 07769 693300

WWW.COPPERMILLHEATING.COM

PLUMBING

Taps, Washers Toilets, Cisterns Leaks, Blockages Tanks, Overflows Lead Pipes, Stopcocks….etc… OAP DISCOUNTS and NO VAT

0117

957 5092

ROOFING

JPK PLUMBING

Professional Decorating Services

www.carterdecorating.co.uk

Established 1989 • Based in Bishopston

Tel: 01179 426 436 tim_hobbs@outlook.com

SASH WINDOWS

SnugSash.co.uk Sash window specialist • Renovation • Draughtproofing • Double glazing • Repairs • Painting We can fit double glazing to your sash windows! www.snugsash.co.uk

ed@thebristolplumber.com

07736 229727

facebook.com/thebristolplumber

PLUMBING

SnugSash

WINDOWS & DOORS

MSP

RELIABLE & LOCAL PLUMBER

Est. over 30yrs - Covering all local areas All types of Plumbing. No Job Too Small • Burst pipes • Sinks, Overflows, Taps • Toilets Unblocked • Lead Pipes Advanced plumber qualified to HND in Building Services GUARANTEED 24HR EMERGENCY SERVICE. NO CALL OUT CHARGE

Tel: 07970 617994

MAINTENANCE

Having problems with your Upvc windows and doors? Misted panes, broken handles, faulty hinges or locks! For all types of Upvc maintenance and repair, contact Malcolm on

01179 686486 / 07548 928251 for a free quote

pidgemsp@aol.com

Westbury on Trym | BS9

PLUMBING SERVICES

WIGS

Wigs Bristol

LOCATED IN DOWNEND

We have been supplying all types of wigs and hairpieces for fashion and medical purposes for 45 years. Wigs can be purchased off the peg or made to measure in hair or synthetic fibre. We stock many styles and makes.

Please book an appointment on:

0117 956 6556 www.wigsbristol.com

To advertise, contact Emma on 0117 9082121 or 07715 770448 or email emma@bishopstonvoice.co.uk. Got news? Email: news@bishopstonvoice.co.uk

Start your career in home care today • Competitive rates of pay: £9.50 to £11.50 per hour + mileage • Guaranteed and block hours contract available • Holiday pay • Free uniform • Pension scheme • No previous experience needed • Full induction and on-going training • Further training and career progression opportunities • Opportunity to deliver care at home in the community

Call 0117 4032262

bristol@caremark.co.uk www.caremark.co.uk/bristol