bishopstonvoice March, 2020 Issue 88
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£500k transformation bid Lego girls ready for tech challenge A team from Redmaids' High School is taking part in the finals of a Lego competition under the banner of #GirlsCan. PAGE 17
Mayoral race gets under way The battle to see who will become Bristol's Mayor for the next four years is beginning as candidates for the four main parties launch campaigns. PAGE 12
NAILSEA Electrical, one of Bishopston’s most prominent retailers, has come up with new £500k renovation plans to transform its premises. The firm's revised proposal includes developing the showroom near the Berkeley Road and Gloucester Road crossroads, renovating the tower and clock, building nine new apartments, enlarging
the car park and moving the warehouse to a separate trading estate. Owner Ben Gilks says: “I want to secure Nailsea Electrical in the area for the next 30 years. I’m passionate about my business and I love that it’s located on Gloucester Road.” Full story: Pages 4 & 5
m ve
Cricket club backs cancer charity CLIC Sargent has become the official charity for Gloucestershire Cricket in the club's 150th anniversary year. PAGE 31
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Bishopstonvoice contacts Emma Cooper Publisher
0117 908 2121 / 07715 770448 emma@bishopstonvoice.co.uk
Sue Thomas
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News Editor
07976 706120 news@bishopstonvoice.co.uk
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April deadline Our April deadline is March 18. 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.
Bristol Airport expansion plan is thrown out BRISTOL Airport's expansion plan to boost its passenger capacity from 10 million a year to 12 million, has been rejected by North Somerset councillors. The controversial scheme to build a covered pedestrian walkway at the front of the building, more parking spaces and changes to the road layout on the site received 8,800 objections from the public and 2,400 messages of support. North Somerset councillors voted 18-7, with one abstention, to reject the proposals on grounds that the claimed economic benefits would be harmful to the environment. The expansion plan attracted plenty of opposition from Green Party councillors in Bishopston and Redland, climate campaigners, youth climate strikers - including children from Bishop Road School (pictured) - and residents. Redland Councillor Fi Hance says: “Expanding the airport assumes that air traffic is inevitably going to rise at a time when we all need to be flying less, not more. We need to challenge this and Martin Fodor and I are delighted that councillors have seen sense.” A spokesperson for the Bristol Green Party commented: “Following Bristol's declaration of a Climate Emergency and pledge to go carbon neutral by 2030, led by Greens, all the other authorities in this region followed suit, and hundreds more nationwide. But Bristol Airport’s ambition to expand threatened to make a mockery of that target – the carbon emissions from their proposed extra flights alone would have almost doubled Bristol’s direct emissions. “It's disappointing that the Mayor – who voted to recognise the Climate Emergency – continued to support airport expansion. As well as more than doubling the number of passenger flights, the airport’s plans would cause severe traffic congestion in local roads south of Bristol, and increased air pollution and noise from thousands more flights per year - it's the most car dependent airport in the country.” Bristol Airport chief executive Dave Lees said they would reflect and consider whether to appeal or submit fresh plans.
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March, 2020
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Cash machine explosion Sexual assault : arrest AVON and Somerset Police closed Gloucester Road between its junctions with Church Road and Ashley Down Road on Thursday 30 January. A crime scene was put in place while the scene of an explosion at a cash machine was made safe and forensic investigations are carried out. The explosion at about 3.50am damaged windows and shop fronts but at this early stage in enquiries it's not thought any residents or passers-by have been hurt. If you saw anyone behaving suspiciously around the ATM in the early hours or have any other information which could help get in touch with officers through www.avonandsomerset.police.uk/ contact or ring 101 quoting log number 88 of 30 January. Alternatively ring the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. They never ask your name or trace your call.
A 28-YEAR-OLD man has been arrested in connection with the sexual assault of a woman on Ashley Road in Bristol on 1 February. The assault happened as the woman was walking home from a night out in the early hours of Saturday, 1 February. It took place in the garden of a house near to the junction of Ashley Road with Albert Park. The woman's shouts alerted the householders who saw a man making off and called 999. The arrest followed a CCTV appeal issued on 14 February. The man remains in police custody as enquiries continue.
Rare motorbike stolen POLICE are appealing for witnesses and information following a burglary in Bristol. A garage on Lower Redland Road was broken into sometime between 6pm on Wednesday, 12 February and 3pm on Thursday, 13 February. A rare 20-year-old black Honda Magna motorcycle which had been imported from America was stolen. The police are keen to speak to anyone who saw anything suspicious in the area around the time of the burglary, or who may have seen the bike since. If you can help, please call 101 and provide the call handler with the reference 5220036380.
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by Keri Beckingham ONE of Bishopston’s most prominent retailers has resubmitted plans to transform its premises. Nailsea Electrical, located at 102 Gloucester Rd, wants to redevelop its showroom and build nine apartments. In March 2019, plans for a £250k renovation project were submitted to Bristol City Council; however they were withdrawn a few months later. The new plans have doubled in cost to £500k, and after they were submitted owner Ben Gilks held a night for 25 locals at the shop, where they were invited to talk about any concerns. Speaking about the plans, Ben said: “The business has been going for nearly 30 years and located on Gloucester Road for 12 years, but our current building is obviously a bit of an eyesore and the extension at the back is also out of character. “At the moment we have our shop and warehouse there, with the warehouse located in the church and our shop located
Nailsea Electrical unveils new transformation plans in the back. I want to remove the warehouse from the site completely and move it to a trading estate elsewhere, and put
the shop in the church section, but the only way to do this is to put windows in. As part of the plans we are also going to
renovate the tower and clock, and build nine flats at the back and make the car park bigger so that the residents of the flats can
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March, 2020
park there after hours too. “In terms of our plans, the benefit for local residents is that at the moment we get 15,000 deliveries a year to the site, and the 12 people who work in our logistics department also park their cars around the area too. With the shop staying in the church there won’t be any deliveries, no lorries and no logistical chaos around the
building. We know that 70/80 clients come through our doors a day from across the city, which brings people to the area to go for coffee, lunch or a pint and spend their money. Our shop brings a lot more people to the road than some people may think. “If I don’t get planning permission, it will be my shop that leaves the road and the
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warehouse that will stay. The aim for me is to have the best kitchen and appliance showroom in Bristol and this is probably my last attempt to make it happen. At the night we held with local residents from Berkeley Road to discuss the plans, we took people’s concerns into consideration and the final plans reflect that. I have removed two flats from the plans to try and
accommodate what people want around the area, and people say I’m just doing this because I want flats at the back, but the fact is that I want to secure Nailsea Electrical in the area for the next 30 years. “I’m passionate about my business and I love that it’s located on Gloucester Road. I work in the shop on a daily basis, so I am very open to discussing our plans with people. I love the area and always try to give as much as I can back to the community, especially with our street parties and food and drink festivals that we hold, and it would be a shame to take that away.” Ben told Bishopston Voice that he will maintain ownership of all of the flats, which will be high-end one or two beds that are aimed at young professionals in order to attract good people to the area. The planning application (ref: 20/00022/F) can be viewed on Bristol Council’s planning website: https://planningonline. bristol.gov.uk/. The decision deadline is Monday March 2.
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March, 2020
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Energy-efficient homes development with 'self finish' option gets under way A SUSTAINABLE development of 50 affordable homes is being created at Shaldon Road in Lockleaze. Community development, high levels of energy efficiency and environmental enhancements are leading values of the Shaldon Road scheme. Anna Klimczak, Interim CEO at United Communities, said: “We are thrilled that work has started on this site. The Shaldon Road scheme will bring much needed new homes to the Lockleaze area and transform the lives of the incoming residents, many of whom are from the local community.” The homes will provide residents with a high level of comfort while using very little energy for heating and cooling minimising each home’s carbon footprint. Built to ‘PassivHaus’ principles, the energy efficient properties will each feature a mini ‘Shoebox’ ground source heat pump connected to an ambient shared ground loop array. Complementing the low-carbon ground source heat pumps will be a MVHR (mechanical vented heat recovery) system, making the homes even more energy efficient and further lowering fuel bills for the residents. Encasing these renewable heat technologies, the homes will be constructed using a single skin 'Porotherm' block, cutting construction time and delivering improved thermal properties over traditional construction. Solar PV panels will also feature in the development to further reduce costs, whilst supporting a green transport plan which features electric car charging points, a
car share scheme and improved pedestrian and cycle access. Communal green space around the homes is also being created with a dedicated and protected green corridor for biodiversity and wildlife including bats, birds, bees and other insects. Shaldon Road is also one of the biggest ‘self-finish’ projects ever undertaken in Bristol. The development will provide a mix of two, three and four bedroomed homes, some of which are shared equity and affordable rent. Future residents have committed to taking part in the ‘self-finish’ process which involves them making design decisions enabling them to tailor their new homes' interior elements,
as well as undertaking physical works on their properties including carpentry, fitting kitchens and decorating. Lindy Morgan, CEO at Bristol Community Land Trust, said: “I am thrilled that this pioneering scheme has now started on site. It has been an immense learning curve for the Bristol CLT board and staff, and even more so for the future residents, some of whom have been involved for a number of years. The passion of all those involved has driven the project forward, and we cannot wait to see it coming out of the ground. The scheme will deliver life-changing opportunities to those who have been matched with a home at the scheme and has always had community at the heart of it.”
Boy, 14, jailed over bike-row stab death A 14-YEAR-OLD boy who stabbed a man to death in Bristol following a dispute over a bike has been sentenced to four years and three months in prison. The teenager, who cannot be named for legal reasons, is one of the youngest people ever to be convicted of manslaughter in the Avon and Somerset force area. He was convicted following a trial at Bristol Crown Court in December and sentenced at the same court on 2nd February. Darren Edginton, 39, died from a single stab wound to the chest after being attacked by
the 14-year-old in Winkworth Place, at just after 5.30pm on Friday 21 June. The court heard the teenager and Mr Edginton went to this lane following a dispute in the Grosvenor Road area of St Pauls about a ‘Yo Bike’ which the victim was riding, but that the teenager and his friends felt was theirs. At court, Judge Peter Johnson said: “This was a wicked crime. ”The almost casual way in which you, a 14-year-old boy, carried out a stabbing in cold blood, in broad daylight, in a public place, is chilling.
"It is clear you have a deeply ingrained habit of carrying a knife. You were prepared to stab someone over a trivial matter.” Det Supt Julie Mackay, head of the Major Crime Investigation Team, said: “Darren Edginton’s death is a senseless tragedy and I’d like to again extend our thoughts and sympathies to his family and friends. “We can’t escape the fact that a 14-year-old boy has lost his liberty as a direct result of engaging in knife crime and we remain resolute in our mission to work collaboratively and
collectively with all our partner agencies to tackle the root causes of knife crime.” Avon and Somerset Police and Crime Commissioner Sue Mountstevens said: “This tragic case reinforces the need for a public health approach to tackle knife crime and serious violence in order to keep our communities safe. We need to be taking action to provide interventions for young people at a much earlier stage and identify the root causes of such terrible offences that have a devastating impact on individuals, families and our neighbourhoods.”
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Back-to-work scheme for mums launched
THE Women’s Work Lab is the first employment training programme in the UK to offer workplace training and professional work experience specifically aimed at socially disadvantaged and unemployed mums. Officially launched by Mayor Marvin Rees at City Hall on 5 February, the initiative is jointly funded by partner organisations and Stepping Up - Bristol City Council’s leadership programme. The scheme includes a fiveweek course focusing on personal development, confidence and employability skills and five weeks of part-time, voluntary work experience at a leading organisation in Bristol, with participants who complete the course likely to secure either an apprenticeship or employment. Mayor Marvin Rees said at the launch that going back to work was not only transformational for women but for their families too. He said: “There is millions of pounds worth of talent, drive and productivity that are left behind each year because we don’t have the infrastructure to support people back into work which is why we included affordable child care in our One City plan as a priority issue." Councillor Helen Godwin, Cabinet Lead for Women, Children and Young People said she welcomes the new Bristolbased initiative which is seeking to address issues of both social mobility and inclusion. She said: “Returning to work after having children can be a
daunting prospect. I know from speaking to women in my ward in Southmead and across the city, there are complex obstacles that prevent women from reentering the workforce, including a lack of confidence or the fear that their skills are outdated. The family-friendly Women’s Work Lab is a much needed alternative to more traditional employment schemes or those aimed only at professional women. “The training programme and professional work experience offered by the Women’s Work Lab gives women an opportunity to access employment and career progression, and improve their lives in a significant and meaningful way.” On the programme, participants will be able to do a voluntary work placement at partner organisations including AXA PPP healthcare, law firm Burges Salmon, GKN aerospace, the University of Bristol, North Bristol NHS Trust and engineering firm Jacobs. The inaugural course has 12 places but is already well
over subscribed with over 50 applications from women keen to enroll. Co-Founder of the Women’s Work Lab, Camilla Rigby, said she is delighted that both mums and professional organisations are keen to get on board. She said: “All mothers should have the opportunity to reach their full potential in the workplace regardless of background. We want to enable more women to access jobs in organisations that they usually wouldn’t consider; enabling them to build a career that improves theirs and their family’s future and help reduce social inequality." Single mum of two, Tivoli Everett-Rimmer, age 25, from Bristol has not worked since becoming a parent five years ago and is excited to start the course. She said: “I used to work in administration but have really lost my confidence. I believe the Women's Work Lab will help build up my skills and support me with finding flexible, meaningful work around the
school day. I want to be able to provide for my family in a better way than being on benefits.” Samantha Cuffy, 30, from Shirehampton, also a single mum, has two boys aged six and 10. She said: “I'm on my own with my two lovely boys and despite completing my level 2 accounting qualifications with a distinction I have struggled to gain employment because I've been out of work for ten years. “I've had interviews and got down to the final two, but I'm always told the other person has that bit more experience than me and I'm unsuccessful. I am finally feeling confident that once I have done this programme I'll be able to start my career and provide for my children in the way I've always wanted to." Applications are now closed for the February 2020 cohort but they are taking expressions of interest for the September 2020 cohort. To find how to apply follow this link: www. womensworklab.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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March, 2020
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Exhibition celebrates women of all ages
THE Ages of Women exhibition takes place at Alchemy 198, a cafe bar on Gloucester Road which has gained a particularly female friendly reputation. The exhibition is curated by Sarah Thorp who owns Room 212 gallery, a few doors up the high street, and puts on the events at Alchemy. The bar hosts a monthly women's comedy workshop and open mic, 'Funny Women' on the 2nd Wednesday of every month, a Femme Film on a Monday night and various writers' events, choirs and live music. In March there will be a comedy evening with two Bristol female comedians, Louise Leigh and Pauline Eyre entitled 'Midlife No Crisis!' on March 5 and popular Spanish singer Rosalind Parra Moreno will be returning for another evening of Latino and tango beats. A special Menopause Day of talks and workshops is taking place on March 28, with all proceeds going to cancer charity, Penny Brohn Bristol. Whether you're going through the menopause, or want to learn more about it before you do, this is a chance to learn techniques and share experiences. The day begins with a short film followed by six workshops led by professional therapists experienced in helping women through the
menopause. There will be a showing of Red Moon Diaries, a film of Bristol women affected by this time of change, by Bishopston filmmaker Liz Banks, Senior Lecturer in film at UWE. Workshops by various therapists specialising in the menopause will take place throughout the day and a talk about the NHS response by a local GP. Enjoy tea tastings in the main bar with 'Wild Women Tea Club' (originally
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Cox & Baloney) - their teas have been designed and created especially for women. International Women's Day and Mothers' Day also occur in March so it seemed the appropriate month for the Ages of Women exhibition. Please book in advance for Menopause Day - £30 for the whole day. Max 30 for most sessions. More seats are available for the film so come early! Drop-in for individual sessions if space allows, £5 min donation. Many of these events take place in Alchemy's Downstairs Gallery so the artwork on the walls serves as a colourful backdrop. Contributing artists vary in age and style, from Lily Brett's paintings on boxes, Marta Zubieta's bright retro illustrations and Laura Robertson's quirky paintings to Sophie Galliers self portraits and Toni Burrows amazing mosaics. Marta's artwork explores visual languages through the combination of retro and tropical references where the creepy and the cool collide. All the artists will be at the launch party on March 3 from 6.30pm so come along to see the art and sip on the popular Lady Garden cocktail! To book events see: www.alchemy198. co.uk
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March, 2020
n NEWS FROM OUR MP
Fighting for special needs education
I
T’S been a busy month. I’ve as youth work, mental health, and nearly caught up on postdomestic violence protection. election tasks, from the two Every child and young months when I was not an person in Bristol has the right MP, delaying some responses. In to a good education. For many Parliament the EU Withdrawal months, reflecting your views Agreement Bill passed, I led for and experiences, I’ve focused the Opposition on this, and spoke particularly on support for Special in Parliament on many other Education Needs and Disabilities matters. This update will give you (SEND). I am looking closely at a flavour of what I’ve been doing Bristol City Council’s improvement but you can read more details on plans to address the weaknesses the official Parliamentary record in the current SEND programme, Hansard or on my website. including the Education Health I spoke in Labour’s Opposition and Care Plans (EHCPs). As a Day debate on policing and crime. priority, I want to work with Additional money promised for parents and carers to regain Avon and Somerset Police will confidence in the SEND system in mean 403 new officers in over Bristol. three years, the force has lost 700 The Withdrawal Agreement officers since 2010. There have Bill came back from the House been tragic consequences of the of Lords including amendments cuts over the last ten years, such I proposed on child refugees as an increase in knife crime in and EU citizens in my role as Bristol. We need police cuts to be Shadow Europe Minister. I reversed but also more money to defended these amendments Abbey hp ads AW.qxp_Layout 1 26/03/2019 11:33 Page 1 reverse cuts to other services such again in the Commons, but
sadly the government voted them down. In my role as Shadow Europe Minister and your Member of Parliament, I will carry on scrutinising the government throughout the process of negotiating the future relationship, pushing for the closest possible relationship with the EU. I’ve asked the government how many EU citizens who have applied for settled status have been given the less secure presettled status. I still haven’t been given an answer to this important question, and I am worried that those that have the legal right to be here aren’t being treated properly. This process should be seamless. I urge every EU citizen to apply as soon as possible and ask you to let me know of any problems. I was outraged that journalists from some national newspapers and news sites were denied access
r ou n i Jo family l
Thangam Debbonaire column to a briefing from Number 10 on the future relationship with the EU. Accountable political journalism is more important than ever, particularly as the government has blocked Labour amendments to allow Parliament to scrutinise them. I will keep campaigning for freedom of the press, particularly as this seems to have become a worrying trademark of this government. As always please do get in touch if there is something you want to know, or take up in Parliament, or if you need my help.
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March, 2020
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n NEWS
Downs campaign group meets local MP by Keri Beckingham A FED-UP group of residents has met with Bristol North West MP Darren Jones in regard to the increasing number of vehicles using the Downs as a campsite. As previously reported in The Voice, the ‘Respect The Downs’ group says that the ever-increasing numbers of semi-permanent van dwellers and traveller incursions on Clifton and Durdham Downs – and the apparently laissez faire attitude taken by the Mayor and Bristol City Council towards their removal – has impacted huge numbers of local residents and users of this iconic part of Bristol during the last few years. They say that inconsistent or non-enforcement of by-laws and council policies has directly
contributed to the issue, and that the Downs now features as a free place to stay on Camper Van websites. Respect The Downs plan to harness the growing levels of frustration felt by many of those who live near and/or use the Downs for the range of activities for which this part of Bristol is intended, and will provide a much-needed ‘hub’ for up to date information about what is being done to expedite removal of any traveller camps and van dwellers that appear on the Downs. Additionally it will act as a focal point for documenting and sharing any incidents of antisocial behaviour, harassment and intimidation that may occur during an incursion. Supporters will be asked to provide details and photographs/video footage
of any such incidents and to report all of these by calling 101, the Police non-emergency telephone number. Since our last report, the group now has over 400 subscribing supporters from postcodes throughout Bristol, who are all expressing the opinion that this problem cannot be left on the doorsteps of residents and needs action from Bristol City Council. In addition, the group also met with MP Darren Jones on February 8 to discuss their concerns. Commenting on the latest developments, a spokesperson for Respect The Downs said: “A meeting with MP Darren Jones on 8 Feb proved interesting, though did indicate that there are still some misconceptions by both the Mayor and MPs over
the thoughts and feelings of the residents. “Respect The Downs have also petitioned the Mayor, Darren Jones and Bristol City Council to create specific pay-asyou-use managed sites for van dwellers so that effective waste management and sanitation is assured, proper registration of inhabitants and access to welfare options to those who need them are available where required. “To leave all of the above on the doorsteps of residents is irresponsible. As yet, the Mayor, BCC and Darren Jones have not offered any options or comments.” To find out more about Respect The Downs and their campaign, visit: www. respectthedowns.co.uk
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bishopstonvoice
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March, 2020
n NEWS
Who will be Bristol's next Mayor?
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Samuel Williams
Easter Holiday Camps Monday 6 April to Thursday 9 April and Tuesday 14 April to Friday 17 April • Designed for both beginners and advanced players aged 4 - 15 • Grouped by age & ability (friends can stay in the same groups) • Technical and tactical coaching based on the level whilst making it a fun and relaxed environment for ALL • Please book ahead of time to guarantee a place - last min bookings taken If not fully booked
Session Options - mornings 9am to 1pm, afternoons 1.30pm to 4pm or both sessions (9am to 4pm) https://clubspark.lta.org.uk/EllyShearmanCoaching/Coaching/Camps · All day will be £25 per day Discounts for all 4 days & 10% sibling discount https://clubspark.lta.org.uk/EllyShearmanCoaching/Coaching/Camps
MARVIN Rees has announced six new pledges he will deliver on as he stands for re-election as Mayor of Bristol in May. Unveiling his pledges, Marvin said: "What Bristol needs now is continuity of leadership keeping on being the change that Bristol so badly needs." Speaking to a crowd at the Empire Fighting Chance boxing gym on February 14 the current Labour Mayor promised to deliver an underground and integrated public transport system with free travel for apprentices and students to 25. Other pledges included achieving a Living Wage city, growing jobs in a diverse economy and building on the success of the Channel 4 Hub, with opportunity for all Bristol’s communities. He has plans to invest £1bn in clean energy, double the tree canopy, grow sustainable food in every ward and deliver our climate
and ecological emergency plans as well as double the number of adults with Learning Difficulties we support into employment. Also announced was a programme to build over 2,000 homes each year, of which 1,000 are affordable, and reduce the number of households in temporary accommodation as well as building new secondary schools, deliver quality work experience and apprenticeships, and deliver adult learning and youth opportunities, including two Youth Zones. Elected in 2016, Marvin Rees has been criticised by councillors and residents over his handling of a number of important decisions for the city, including the location of the Bristol Arena and the plans for Temple Island. His decision to scrap the ‘rainbow Cabinet’ of all political parties (initiated by the previous mayor, George Ferguson) has led to criticism about the lack of
Red Ball Quorn Cup (doubles) Saturday 7 March – 3.30 – 5.30pm
• Fun doubles tournament for anyone - child aged 10 & under and a parent/adult over 18 • Played on min tennis courts with red (decompressed) tennis balls - making it fun for everyone! • Non-members welcome
£10 per pair with pizza in the club house afterwards Please book online!
https://clubspark.lta.org.uk/EllyShearmanCoaching/Events
Club Night Special Tuesday 31 March - 7.30 - 10PM Coaches organise mix in doubles followed by pizza and the new refurbed bar will be open! £3 for non-members. A great way to meet club members and other people picking up a racket for the first time in a while!
Newly Refurbished Club House Opening Night – Saturday 7 March – 4pm onwards with courts available from 5pm – everyone is welcome! We are also showing England v Wales rugby match To advertise, contact Emma on 0117 9082121 or 07715 770448 or email emma@bishopstonvoice.co.uk. Got news? Email: news@bishopstonvoice.co.uk
March, 2020
bishopstonvoice
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The race begins... democracy in the Mayor’s office and Cabinet, which is solely controlled by the Labour Party. And, following the creation of the West of England Combined Authority Mayoral post in 2017, which aims deliver economic growth for the South West region, address productivity and skills, housing and transport, some have questioned the need for a separate Mayor of Bristol. With that in mind, the Bishopston Voice asked three other candidates for Bristol Mayor how they see the role and whether it needs to become more democratic? The Liberal Democrats are committed to a full-scale review of the city's governance and would offer Bristolians the option to vote in 2022 on whether to retain or scrap the role of Mayor. Their candidate, PR specialist Mary Page, will also offer people the choice of having neighbourhood or parish councils with full tax-raising powers, or area partnerships with devolved budgets to put localised decision-making at the heart of our communities. Mary Page says: “Right from the start of my term of office I would look to share power with elected councillors and Bristol communities. I believe each Councillor is elected to serve their ward and has a mandate from the people to run the city - not divisively, but collaboratively as a team with joint responsibility and collective liability, and therefore I would have a 'rainbow Cabinet' that represents all parties. “Our polling suggests that in some areas of the city there is a clear 2:1 majority for scrapping the role of Mayor. I agree with them and believe that it is illogical, costly and inefficient to have the city Mayor as well as the 70 councillors and the regional Mayor on top of that.” Charity campaigner Samuel Williams is the Conservative candidate. He believes that the real issue is the lack of accountability and scrutiny of the current Mayoral office, as there is no power for councillors to veto decisions that are made. “People are worried that decisions are being made behind
closed doors, which is not good in a democratic society," he says. “I think there is a lot to be said for the Mayoral position in theory, however I think there needs to be more emphasis on community politics, . " If I were to be elected, I would look to bring back a bigger role to Bristolians, and although I recognise that we’re all tired of referendums and turning out to the polls, I think the concern is great enough that we should ask the question – do communities feel that they are being properly served? “I think the Mayor has to be someone who doesn’t shy away from the fact that people hold different views. When the person in the role doesn’t allow for diversity of voice in Cabinet, I think it undermines all of us, and I am looking towards a blended, mixed Cabinet that is irrespective of party.” Businessman Sandy HoreRuthven is the Green Party candidate for Bristol Mayor. He says: “Talking to residents it is clear that some people feel Marvin is not open enough with his decision making, and is not properly serving the city. The majority wanted an arena at Temple Island, however he overlooked this and made the decision for an arena at Cribbs Causeway for no apparent reason, at further cost. An arena in the city centre would have given an opportunity for people to experience everything that Bristol has to offer, and I think that this decision represents a real betrayal of the people. “If I became Mayor, I would look to have a ‘rainbow Cabinet’ that represents all parties, offering more scrutiny and playing a larger role in the making of big decisions. “I do still think that Bristol needs a Mayor and that things need to be more open and democratic, and I would welcome the chance to run a more transparent office.” Bristol has had an elecged Mayor since 2012. Thirteen candidates stood for election four years ago and it is expected that more candidates will come forward to contest the position this time at the poll on May
Mary Page
Marvin Rees 7, which is also the date when elections will be held for all 70 council seats. The first independent candidate to declare is education
campaigner Christine Townsend, who also stood for election in 2016. Read more about the Mayoral Election in next month's Bishopston Voice..
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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
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bishopstonvoice
March, 2020
n NEWS
May you bud and may you blossom THE blossom buds on fruit trees are fattening up to flower from March onwards. Plums are the first to bloom, then pears, and finally, apples. Horfield Organic Community Orchard (HOCO) hosts a new range of courses for 2020. Get Growing Fruit Trees is a friendly guide to the basics of fruit tree care. The course takes place on four afternoons (in March, May, July, September) spaced over the year. Participants work with trees of different ages and needs. They learn how to plan, what to prune, when to perk up the soil. Learning is hands-on, and the effects of actions observed over a growing season. Shannon Smith, a knowledgeable and down-toearth tutor, leads the courses and says: “Gardeners who give their fruit trees the love and care they need will enjoy tasty and plentiful fruit for decades. Success depends on knowing
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the character and needs of your trees. Knowing why and when to prune, is as important as knowing how. The only responsible way to manage pests and diseases is in tune with nature.” For more experienced growers, there’s a one-day Winter Pruning workshop on Saturday 28 March. Shannon adds: “Young trees must be pruned in the dormant season. While pruning can help mature trees - too often it is done without knowledge or planning. Come and unpick pruning puzzles, and learn to renew your trees with thoughtful and timely action.” More information on the HOCO website: https://tinyurl. com/OLcourses Contact: hocopips@gmail. com. Photo courtesy of Jamie Carstairs
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Share memories of St Andrews Park ST Andrews Park first opened its gates to the public 125 years ago in 1895 and 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. A coffee and cake morning is taking place at Alchemy 198, Gloucester Road on Tuesday 24 March. 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.
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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
March, 2020
bishopstonvoice
n NEWS
New office for law firm BRISTOL law firm, Barcan+Kirby is celebrating the relocation of its team in Gloucester Road to new office space. The law firm, which has been part of the Gloucester Road business community for over 40 years, will relocate its 29 staff to the new and improved setting at 60 Gloucester Road 15in this thriving local community in Bristol. The Gloucester Road office is one of the firm’s six high street offices across Bristol and South Gloucestershire where they provide a comprehensive range of legal services. These include residential conveyancing, family law and mediation, issues relating to Power of Attorney and Wills and estate planning. Bill Willcocks, Managing Partner of Barcan+Kirby said: “We are delighted to finally relocate our practice on Gloucester Road to new and improved office space just down the road from where we started out. “We really value our role within this thriving community as local high street solicitors and as an active supporter of the community. “We have also relocated our Commercial Property team from our Clifton office which will allow the team to continue advising existing and new clients from larger premises.”
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Fund aims to benefit community groups COMMUNITY organisations in Bristol are being given an opportunity to benefit from a Community Fund launched by local law firm, Barcan+Kirby. The Barcan+Kirby Community Fund is a new initiative launched this month to give groups and individuals working for the benefit of the communities in BS1, BS3, BS7, BS8, BS15 and BS35 a chance to be awarded monetary support from the firm. Community groups and individuals can apply for up to £300 in support of their projects or to kick start new community programmes. There will be two opportunities to apply for funding, one in February and the next in June. The deadline for the first round of applications is Saturday 29 February. Commenting on the fund, Bill Willcocks, Managing Partner of Barcan+Kirby, said: “We are really excited to announce the launch of our latest initiative to give those who work tirelessly for the local communities around Bristol a helping hand. “Being an active supporter of the communities in which we operate is an important part of who we are as local high street solicitors. We strive to bring out the best in not just our staff, but also in the communities that we serve around Bristol. “We would like to encourage organisations and individuals actively working for the benefit of their communities to submit an application to the Barcan+Kirby Community Fund.” Applications can be made via the Barcan+Kirby website at https:// barcankirby.co.uk/about-us/charitable-support/.
Developing Global Thinkers Whole School Open Morning Thursday 30th April 2020 admissions@cliftonhigh.co.uk | 0117 933 9087 www.cliftonhigh.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
16 on rs ou 5pm day h ed ill rs nd ay t -Thum e t Ex ond sday -5p M ue am d T 7.45 an
30 ea hour en rly y s fr tit ea ee lem rs en t
Noah’s Ark Pre-school offers a supportive and caring environment for your child to learn and explore. We recognise and value each child’s unique character and potential and are committed to offering them the very best in early years care. Come and see what Noah’s Ark can offer your child:
March, 2020
n EDUCATION
Student progress: ride high in league NEW Government Performance Tables reveal that secondary schools in north Bristol are among the top schools in the country for student progress. The Progress 8 outcomes for 2019 show that students at Redland Green School, Colston’s Girls’ School, Bristol Cathedral Choir School, Fairfield High School, Bristol Free School and St Bede’s all achieved higher grades in their GCSEs than might have been expected from the standard they were working at when they joined each school. The Government says that Progress 8 gives parents a fairer measure on how schools are supporting all young people to achieve their best, rather than just measuring attainment. Schools aim for Progress 8 figures above zero: Fairfield High
School (FHS) scored 0.35. This was a significant improvement on the 2018 figure of 0.134 and means the school is one of the top three mixed secondary performers in Bristol, and among the best 650 schools in the country. Principal of FHS Nick Lewis said: “These figures are down to the hard work of our staff and students at Fairfield. The diverse population and positive community spirit at FHS all help make it easy for our students to do well.” Topping the table was Redland Green School (RGS) with a Progress 8 score of 0.53. Headteacher, Louise Blundell, said: “I am so proud of each and every student and their achievements during last year's examination period. They
• a team of highly qualified staff who are passionate in their commitment to helping children achieve their full potential. • exciting and stimulating resources that inspire learning. • an environment, play opportunities and activities that are inclusive and accessible for all children. Including regular woodworking and cooking sessions. • opportunities for children to develop a sense of curiosity and wonder and skills needed to think critically and problem solve. • a focus on the outdoors through our two outside play areas and forest school. “Staff provide a rich programme of learning opportunities tailored to individual children’s needs”
OFSTED We take children from 2-4 years and funded 2 year old spaces are available.
Places available for September 2020. To arrange a visit please email or call today Noah’s Ark Pre-school Cairns Road Baptist Church, Westbury Park, Bristol, BS6 7TH Tel: 0117 9446229 Email: Office@noahsarksps.org.uk www.noahsarkps.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
March, 2020
Schools tables worked extremely hard and were well supported by exceptional staff throughout their time at Redland Green School. “We are delighted so many students made such good progress at RGS, gaining the grades needed for their first choice Post 16 studies, including a record number of students who joined us this year at the North Bristol Post 16 centre.” Colston's Girls' School was just behind on 0.51, followed by Bristol Metropolitan Academy in Fishponds on 0.5, Bristol Cathedral Choir School at 0.36, St Mary Redcliffe and Temple at 0.28 and St Bede's Catholic College at 0.18. For the results in full see here: https://bit.ly/2PJRwys
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Redmaids' girls set for Lego finals A TEAM from RedMaids' High School are taking part in the national finals of a Lego competition. The popular FIRST® LEGO® League England and Wales was due to take place on February 22 at UWE. The competition, organised by the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET), is the largest ever with 66 teams and more than 500 young people taking part. Redmaids’ High was to be represented by a team of 10 girls from Year 6 competing as #GirlsCan. They have been developing their coding and programming skills in their weekly Robotics Club with teachers Anthea Joyce and Jamie Hayward. Mrs Joyce said: “We are proud to be flying the flag for girls in STEM at this prestigious competition. It’s a brilliant way for our pupils to put their robotics skills into action, and
have fun whilst taking part in team challenges.” The annual science and technology competition for, 9 - 16 year olds, tasks teams to build a robot to tackle a series of missions, and create an innovative solution to a real world problem. The 2020 City Shaper Challenge is about architecture and the spaces we live in. To compete, the
girls have designed a project around making children’s play areas accessible to people of all abilities and will present this at the final to an expert panel. They have also designed, built and programmed their own Lego EV3 Mindstorms robot to carry out a set of tasks including remotely operating a crane, and moving Lego buildings into position.
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
FREE day trips for the over fifties If you are over fifty and want to discover exciting new attractions as well as meet new friends, then SGS College has the course for you.
Locations and dates available:
Held over two days, the Discover course will allow you to explore different locations and gain a qualification in either English or Maths. The real fun begins on the second day, when you and your peers will be driven by coach to one of the exciting venues around the region. Whether you are a history enthusiast, a culinary connoisseur or a green-fingered gardener, you will find an experience that is right for you.
Portsmouth Harbour 25th/26th April - Maths course
Booking is essential, as there are a limited number of places.
SGS Wise Campus Victoria & Albert/Natural History Museum 7th/8th March - Maths course
Malvern Spring Show 9th/10th May - English course Blenheim Palace & Food Festival 23rd/24th May - English or Maths course Hampton Court 13th/14th June - English or Maths course Bletchley Park 18th/19th July - Maths course
For further information please visit www.sgscol.ac.uk/discover or contact Andrea Wilmot on 0117 909 2327 or 01453 761142
bishopstonvoice
March, 2020
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n EDUCATION
Students become Sanctuary Ambassadors STUDENTS from Fairfield High School (FHS) were privileged to attend a special event in Bristol’s City Hall to learn about, and reflect upon, refugee and asylum issues. The students were chosen (together with a handful of secondary and Post 16 education providers) following the interest they had shown in being trained as ‘Sanctuary Ambassadors’ – a new role created within Bristol City Council’s Schools of Sanctuary initiative to help spread the message of welcome and inclusion amongst schools. The conference included hearing first hand accounts of those directly involved in the asylum system, including Bristol Refugee Rights’ Voice Project, Sanctuary scholars from University of Bristol plus a volunteer from the Signing Support Group, whose volunteers accompany asylum seekers to the immigration reporting centre, often a daunting and isolating task in itself. To deepen their understanding of the asylum process, the students also took part in discussions, interactive exercises and workshops. One of the highlights was hearing from John Stokes, a foster father, whose highly topical and publicised petition to save the deportation of an Albanian 18 year old,
was supported by 250,000 signatures. Another influential speaker was Marvyn Rees, Mayor of Bristol, who gave his perspective on migration and his efforts to make Bristol more inclusive. This event, organised by Bristol City of Sanctuary’s Schools of Sanctuary Group, in partnership with Bristol City Council’s Youth Team, aimed to empower the ambassadors so that they can help raise awareness of sanctuary issues to help make their schools more safe and inclusive.
Easton ward Councillor, Ruth Pickersgill, thought the event was very much a success: “I am always so impressed with the creativity of young people and they came up with amazing ideas to take back. This included setting up social justice welcome groups, making and selling refugee badges and awareness raising videos, starting campaigns against the injustices of the asylum system, collecting food and money to support destitute asylum seekers, volunteering for different groups, supporting ESOL teaching and much more.” Archie, a Year 10 student who attended the event said: “What struck me most was how unfair the whole asylum system is. We heard from John Stokes, who is campaigning to keep his foster son Samet in the UK and has been told by the Home Office that he will be deported now he’s 18. John was inspirational. It makes you want to take action, tell everyone about it.” Student Islay added: “It was very moving to hear about the dangerous journeys asylum seekers often have and the difficulties they face. We wrote an action plan and want to work with organisations to raise awareness in the school and the community. It makes you want to help.”
Junior School Open Morning Tuesday 3 March, 9.30am
Excellent opportunities from Year 3
0117 962 9451
redmaidshigh.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
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March, 2020
n EDUCATION
Elmlea Schools’ Trust Westbury-on-Trym
Board Trustee & Local Governor Vacancies
(Including potential future Chairs & Vice Chairs for succession planning) Elmlea Schools’ Trust is a recently formed Multi Academy Trust encompassing the Elmlea Infants’ and Junior schools. Both schools have “Outstanding” Ofsted ratings and are renowned for their all-round education. The schools operate from a beautiful single site campus in Westbury-on-Trym in Bristol. The school provides a first class education to 630 children from Reception through to Year 6. The trust is currently seeking exceptional candidates for non-remunerated vacancies at both Trustee and Local Governor level. As part of the succession planning process there is the potential for the right candidates to step-up to become future Chairs or Vice Chairs.
Former Olympian inspires teenagers FAIRFIELD High School (FHS) was delighted to welcome former Olympian and international triple jumper Vernon Samuels. Vernon visited the school to inspire and share his wisdom with Year 9 mental health ambassadors, with a view to empowering them to lead physical activities with their peers. The overall objective being to address the imperative issues of well-being and mental health by increasing students’ self esteem and confidence. In conjunction with Youth Sports Trust and Excalibur Academies Trust, this project addresses these all too important - and all too misunderstood - issues, by offering tactics for students to help themselves and others. Vernon has worked with national, regional and local organisations from government, voluntary and private sectors developing a range of strategic initiatives and collaborative partnerships over the last 25 years.
Independent Day School for Boys and Girls
Candidates should be experienced leaders from Commerce, Education or Practice. Applicants from existing or previous Trustee or Governor roles are welcomed. With a strong desire to support the local community you will share a passion for education and the welfare of children. You will be committed to ensuring the Trust continues to provide first class education for its children through strong and effective governance and support. Experience and skills in one or more of the following areas is desired: • Strategy • Finance • Operations / People Management • Law • HR • Governance & compliance • Business & organisational change • Estates management & development • PR & Marketing • IT and Data Protection If you are interested, please submit a CV and covering letter (no more than 2 sides of A4) to the Clerk to the Board of Trustees via email : clerk@elmleajunior.com by mid-day on Monday 30th March 2020. Successful applicants will be invited to meet with the CEO and Board members.
Where education is a journey, not a race
BRISTOL STEINER SCHOOL Open Morning Thursday 5th March 2020
9:30am - 11:30am
For more information or to book a place, contact Reception: 0117 933 9990 reception@bristolsteinerschool.org Redland Hill House, Redland, Bristol BS6 6UX
To advertise, contact Emma on 0117 9082121 or 07715 770448 or email emma@bishopstonvoice.co.uk. Got news? Email: news@bishopstonvoice.co.uk
Holiday Club & Activity Courses
OPEN EVERY
SCHOOL HOLIDAY For children and young people from Pre-School to Year 8 ● Early drop from 8am and late stay until 6pm ● Fantastic indoor and outdoor facilities ● Wide range of exciting activity courses ● Daily swimming for children aged 6 and over
For further information: T: 0117 315 7666 E: ccsl@cliftoncollege.com
www.ccsl-cliftoncollege.com
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bishopstonvoice
March, 2020
n EDUCATION
Foster families unite to stage first play
CARERS and children from Bristol’s fostering families took to the boards at Bristol Grammar School’s theatre to stage their first pantomime, Jack and the Beanstalk. The play was written and directed by a Bristol City Council foster carer, George Pennington-Field, and was organised by the Avon Foster Carers Association (AFCA), a group of foster carers who work to support and champion fostering and foster children. Two performances took place - a matinee and an evening show which was followed by an Oscars-style presentation hosted by Mayor Marvin Rees and Councillor Helen Godwin, Cabinet Member for Children, Families and Women, in recognition of the families’ hard work. Local celebrities, including Bristol actor Joe Sims, city partners and councillors were joined by Bristol City Football Club mentors and trainers who all showed their support and encouragement. Speaking after the final bows were taken, George said: “Our re-telling of the classic story of Jack and the Beanstalk has brought the foster care community in Bristol together. It has been a fun way for young people and their carers to meet new friends and build confidence. Following the auditions in
October everyone has been working really hard to make this a success and hopefully we will be able to do it again next year.” Councillor Godwin, Cabinet Member for Children, Families and Women, said: “Taking part in a play was a new experience for many of our young people and foster carers, and what a fantastic job they did. As corporate
parents we are always focused on supporting, protecting and encouraging those in our care - and staging this play was a novel way to gain new skills and connections and build self-belief, as well as having a lot of fun. It fits in perfectly with our EPIC (exceptional people in care) agenda.”
Want to become a better leader? Part-time MSc Strategy, Change and Leadership Designed for busy managers to fit around a demanding management role, this part-time programme will help you to: – improve your ability to manage change and uncertainty – increase your leadership impact – understand organisational complexity and issues affecting success – make better choices about growth and strategic direction Through world-class academic research, our flagship executive programme can help to show you how. For more information Email: efim-scl@bristol.ac.uk or Tel: 0117 954 6694 Web: bristol.ac.uk/study/postgraduate/2020/ssl/ msc-strategy-change-leadership Come along to our Open Evening on Wednesday 25 March 2020 from 6-8pm. To register, email: efim-scl@bristol.ac.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
March, 2020
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n EDUCATION
Junior school teams up with author to help Aussie wildlife TO support a cause close to both of their hearts, children’s author Rachel Delahaye visited Redmaids’ High Junior School to raise funds to help Australian wildlife. Instead of receiving a fee, Bath-based Rachel asked the Junior School to donate to WIRES, a Wildlife Information, Rescue and Education Service based in New South Wales, Australia, which is working to help the estimated one billion animals affected by catastrophic fires, droughts and record high temperatures. In an energetic and engaging presentation, which completely captivated the girls, Rachel touched upon the situation in Australia. She then focused on the importance of stories.
“Stories are what make us human,” she explained. “We use them to share our history and experiences, and to teach us important moral lessons. Most of all, however, we tell them because they make life fun and interesting.” She read an extract from her book, Jim Reaper, which had the girls in stitches, before launching the 500-word, short story-writing competition run by BBC Radio 2, which many of the girls will enter. “Use your imagination and read plenty of
books yourselves,” she advised, before giving them lots of tips and techniques on how to develop interesting storylines. Mrs Brown, Headteacher at Redmaids’ High Junior School said, “The girls have had a wonderful time today, which started with each of them having their faces painted, and we really appreciate Rachel giving so generously of her time. “Rachel has inspired the girls to get writing and, together, we have raised £175 for a really important cause.”
Fairfield High School The sheer quantity of opportunities FHS provided to progress & improve our passions and interests is unbelievable. - Alex (student)
www.fairfield.bristol.sch.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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Gems
bishopstonvoice
March, 2020
of Gloucester Road
Hobbs House Bakery
Bread & Milk
168 Gloucester Road, Bishopston, Bristol BS7 8NT Tel: 07909 308668 Nola Interiors-bristol @168nolainteriors
Organic Refills ÂŁ1 a litre
Hobbs House Bakery 177 Gloucester Road
To advertise, contact Emma on 0117 9082121 or 07715 770448 or email emma@bishopstonvoice.co.uk. Got news? Email: news@bishopstonvoice.co.uk
bishopstonvoice
March, 2020
S
HOPPERS will find a warm greeting at the vibrant, independent shops and businesses that are the gems of Gloucester Road. Bristol’s Indie Shopping District stretches along the Gloucester Road from Bishopston to Horfield. The area has the most independent shops of any street in the country - it’s well worth a visit to take in the bohemian atmosphere and spend time exploring from shop to shop. You’ll
be spoilt for choice with pubs and welcoming cafes to relax in and a selection of some of the finest restaurants in the city. With three traditional butchers, a fishmonger, greengrocers, and some excellent bakeries on your doorstep, there’s plenty of tantalising bites for all tastes. Colourful murals and art banners decorate the street which has a range of small art and craft shops including Art @ Bristol and Craft Works. Check out the art displays at Room 212 and Fig, and unique art, jewellery and clothing made by Bristol artists and makers at Co.Lab. Gloucester Road hosts a wide range of services including estate agents, opticians, Bishopston Library, the Quaker meeting rooms, hair stylists, pet shops and dog groomers. For the house there’s Pearce’s Hardware and home appliances can be bought at Horders and Nailsea Electrical. Rollquick Bicycles and Gloucester Road Bikes will get you on two wheels and The Bike Man can service your bike ready for the road. There’s really something for
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everyone on this eclectic road come and check it out for yourself! NICHE is a Bristol based business that's been picture framing since 1995. Originally founded on Stokes Croft, we can now be found trading from Zetland Road, right in the heart of Gloucester roads shopping centre. We make Picture Frames for your personal and business requirements. We also print photographs, fine art giclee prints, canvases and posters and we offer
a large format Scanning service in store. Making Niche your one-stopshop for all printing and framing in Bristol. Why not visit us to find out more about all of our services, at 4-6 Zetland Rd, BS6 7AE, or call us on 0117 9422213. HOBBS House Bakery have been baking for 100 years. We are a true family business with 5 generations of baking experience, serving daily tasty brunch and coffees and an exceptional range of breads
Framing and Fine Art Printing Studio Come and find us at:
4–6 Zetland Rd Bristol BS6 7AE
Services include: f Custom Framing f Archival Fine Art & Photographic Printing f Canvas Stretching f Window Mounting
f Readymade Frames f Large Format Scanning f Fine Art Reproduction f Instant Photo Printing f Card & Gift Ideas & much more...
nicheframes.co.uk 11/02/2020 11:07 To Bishopston advertise,Voice_Half_Page.indd contact Emma on 40117 9082121 or 07715 770448 or email emma@bishopstonvoice.co.uk. Got news? Email: news@bishopstonvoice.co.uk
Café Bar
Bristol Beers & Gins, Wines Cocktails Vegan / Veggie Café Coffees, Teas & Cakes The perfect place for a quiet drink or a big celebration Local, eco-friendly or plastic free
Events Space Parties
Live Music or Film Nights Workshops or Launches Comedy or Writers’ Open Mic Craft or Book Clubs
Artwork
supplied by Room 212
www.alchemy198.co.uk 198 Gloucester Road
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Gems and cakes. We are pleased to now be offering refillable milk in reusable glass bottles from a local dairy, a new way to serve our community and reduce our environmental impact.
OSNA therapy is one of the oldest trading Health Centres in Bristol. We have been trading 23 years. We offer Massage, Reflexology, Energy balancing, Healing sessions, Organic facials using Kansa wands. We are constantly updating our skills which enables our clients to achieve the best possible outcome from their treatment. Come listen to Bridget giving a talk on how Essential oils may help with Menopause. This will be held at Alchemy 198 on Saturday 28th March.www.osnatherapy.
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com Info@isnatherapy.com. Contact Bridget CONRAN CARPETS LTD brings 40+ years of floor covering expertise to the famous Gloucester Road in Bristol! Knowledgeable, respectful, polite staff on hand ready to listen to you. We aim to have something to suit every budget, with thousands of samples to choose from. Come and see them on display in our light, warm and airy showroom. We also have full rolls on display ready for you to touch and feel. Seeing it on a large roll gives you a better idea as to what your new carpet will look like in your home. 'Roll stock' always represents the best value. We are your local, independent business. Unlike the huge, soulless out-of-town multi-
national firms you, 'our customer' is far more than just a sales figure, You mean everything to us here at Conran Carpets. Do not take our word for it, see for yourself what 'our customers' say about us
Osna Therapy Centre Visiting Therapists offering Reiki massage, demos of face massage using the Kansa and energy techniques, handmade siy candles, body oils and lots more!
234 Gloucester Road, BS7 8NZ
Looking for a solicitor? Keep it local Barcan+Kirby are not just any solicitor. We’re your local solicitor with offices in Bedminster, Horfield, Kingswood, Clifton, Thornbury and central Bristol. So our friendly legal experts are always on hand to provide common sense advice at a fair price. If you’re looking for help with any of the services here, we’re the people to talk to.
on our review page!! Come in to buy or just to say 'Hi' either way we'd love to meet you. Or simply come in for free chocolate,'no-strings' honest! We have fully certified &
...your next step in floor covering
We’re specialists in:
▪ Carpets ▪ Rugs ▪ LVT ▪ Linoleum ▪ Vinyl ▪ Laminate ▪ Safety Flooring ▪ Coir ▪ Sisal
✚ Buying and selling
Bringing twenty-five years of floor covering experience to Gloucester Road, your reliable, independent, local, first-class carpet shop.
✚ Wills and trusts and probate ✚ Disputes including employment ✚ Family law ✚ Commercial ✚ Medical negligence ✚ Personal Injury
We always have full rolls in stock and on display ready for your perusal, roll stock always represents best value. Come in to buy or just to say hi, either way we would love to meet you. ▪ Fully certified and insured in-house fitters ▪ Full 'no pressure' measuring service. ▪ Directly dealing with all the major manufacturers
Let us be your next step in floor covering. THU
WHAT OUR CUSTOMERS SAY... “Very Friendly and Helpful” “What a find! Completely took the stress out of all my carpeting needs. Selection is huge, staff very friendly and helpful and a local shop!! Highly recommend.”
“Fantastic Customer Service" Very professional and fantastic customer service, a reliable and trustworthy company – I would highly recommend.”
278–280 Gloucester Road, Horfield, Bristol, BS7 8PD (opposite the Post Office)
Call us on 0117 9425 770 conrancarpetsltd@gmail.com www.conrancarpetsltd.com Open Mon–Sat, 10am–6pm
Call us today on 0117 905 1001
or contact us online at www.barcankirby.co.uk
This firm is authorised and regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority. No: 568743.
Bishopston Matters Please Email: call Kerry on 07881 924 059 To advertise, contact Emma on 0117 9082121 or 07715 770448 or email emma@bishopstonvoice.co.uk. Got news? news@bishopstonvoice.co.uk
Market snapshot Bishopston LOCAL MARKET ROUND UP
NATIONAL MARKET JANUARY 2020
Over the last 12 full months there have been 129 sales in Bishopston. This is a –10% change on the previous 12 month period. The average sales price was £448,425.
Transactions by price band over the last 12 months NATIONAL
BISHOPSTON less than £100k
We bring you the latest trends in the UK's housing market, with a detailed focus on Bishopston.
£100k-£250k £250k-£500k £500k-£750k £750k-£1m £1m-£2m £2m-£5m £5m+
House price growth
Top transaction
over 1 year and 5 years
in last 3 months
£881,000 +6%
+46%
TYNE ROAD BS7
House prices Property prices are rising at their strongest level in a year according to the latest UK House Price Index. At £235,298 the average price of a property in November is 2.2% more expensive than a year ago, the highest rate of annual growth since November 2018.
Economy At 76.3% the UK employment rate was at a record high in the three months to November, while wage growth continues to outpace rises in the cost of living. Adjusting for inflation, wages were 1.6% higher than a year ago (including bonuses) and 1.8% higher (excluding bonuses).
Transactions Just 9,000 fewer sales took place during 2019 compared to 2018 according to the HMRC. Provisional estimates show 1.18 million property sales took place in 2019. Sales volumes for December are estimated to be significantly higher than a year ago, but it is likely these will be revised downwards.
Average prices over last 12 months £800,000 £600,000 £400,000 £200,000 0 Flat/Apartment
Bishopston
Terraced
Semi-detached
Detached
South West
Source: Dataloft, Land Registry
Bishopston Office 201 Gloucester Road, Bishopston, Bristol BS7 8BG Call: 0117 942 5855 Mail: bishopstonsales@oceanhome.co.uk
Disclaimer: This report is produced for general information only. Whilst every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of this publication, Dataloft Ltd accepts no liability for any loss or damage of any nature arising from its use or from any changes made to Dataloft content by Inform users. Reproduction of all or part of the report in any form is prohibited without written permission from Dataloft Ltd. Report edited by Inform user and published on 2020-01-27.
Pop into our Gloucester Road office if you'd like to know more or discuss your own property, we'll be happy to help...
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March, 2020
Gems
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insured 'in-house' fitters, who carry forward our ethos of professionalism, and personal service at all times. Dealing directly with all the major manufacturers (no middlepersons) enables us to beat any like4like quotations. Conran @ Home Choose from the comfort of your armchair.
ALCHEMY 198 is a beautiful cafe bar created by Sarah Thorp, owner of Room 212 - a hub for Bristol artists, offering original cards, gifts & artwork. Sarah organises Glos Rd Central Mayfest and other community events so opened Alchemy in time for the North Bristol Art Trail a year ago. Alchemy offers a welcoming space to meet, drink and be entertained with original ever-changing artwork on every wall. Spread over two floors, so much is on offer, from live music and comedy to creative activities, launches and fundraisers. The Downstairs Gallery is a wonderfully versatile
space for parties and events. Sarah is passionate about the environment so most drinks are made in-house, in Bristol or produced sustainably. Plastic Free Catering Co create delicious vegan / vegetarian brunches, lunches & cakes for the cafÊ and cater for Alchemy’s events and parties. Alchemy 198 is a lovely, friendly hub at the heart of the Gloucester Road.
Celebrating 7 years in business since opening as a new business on Gloucester Road
LUNAR OPTICAL opened on the Gloucester Road with a mission to provide the local community with great eye care, great service and great glasses and contact
VET NURSE HOUSE VISITS
Now offering an affordable range of services for those who find it difficult to get in to the surgery including:
Blood Pressure Monitoring Nail Clips Weight Checks Behavioural Advice Giving Medication
291 Gloucester Road, Bishopston, Bristol, BS7 8NY Opening Times: Monday 9.30am - 5.30pm
Tuesday- Friday 9.30am - 6.00pm and Saturday 9.30am - 4.30pm
Tel: 0117 9420011 E: info@lunaroptical.com
www.lunaroptical.com 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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Gems
of Gloucester Road
lenses. Seven years later and we are now established and thriving and doing what we are passionate about. In that time we’ve seen a lot of eyes, we’ve dressed them, soothed them, and even saved some of them! Thank you Gloucester Road and the wider community for taking us to your heart. We look forward to continuing to bring you the best eye care service we possibly can.
NOLA INTERIORS With an ethos for selling environmentally friendly products and with a passion for colour, Nola Interiors are a local stockist for Little Greene and Earthborn Ecofriendly paint as well as Weaver Green textiles and rugs which are made entirely from recycled plastic bottles that look and feel like wool. Nola Interiors are also
March, 2020
very excited to be supplying Ca' Pietra Artisan tiles, a collection of beautiful designs and colours. We also stock a selection of homewares, gifts, organic scented candles and diffusers.
ANIMAL HEALTH CENTRE was established in 1990. Nicky Bromhall started here as a parttime vet in June 1993. In March 2002 she bought the practice and since then has turned it into a modern and well equipped
centre, all the time maintaining the original values of being a small, friendly practice for both you and your pet. Animal Health Centre is an accredited member of the Practice Standards Scheme, set up by the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons. This ensures that the practice meets the high standards set by the RCVS and we are recognised as a 'Core Standards General Practice'. We are regularly inspected to make sure that the high standards are continued. From the this month, our nurses are able to come to you for clinics! Ideal for if your dog doesn't like coming to the vets or for the cats that won't go in their carriers. Give the practice a call to get booked in!
One a penny, two a penny … 8,000 hot cross buns at Joe’s Pop in today for some seasonal treats and goodies!
The Bread Store, 45 Gloucester Road, BS7 8AD 240-242 Gloucester Gloucester Road, 240-242 Road,BS7 BS78NZ 8NZ
0117 975 5551 0117 975 5551
www.joesbakery.co.uk www.joesbakery.co.uk
EIGHT-THOUSAND hot cross buns are expected to be sold through Joes Bakery main shop and the new shop, Joes at the Breadstore (45 Gloucester road) over the Easter weekend. Joe’s Bakery, which has gained quite a reputation for its awardwinning breads and pastries, is already again expecting a high demand for its delicious buns. Jane, owner of the bakery, says that Maundy Thursday is always the shop’s busiest day over the whole Easter period, where over 3,000 buns are sold. Visitors can also expect Easter biscuits and Easter bread - a rounded, fruited loaf, which is lightly spiced with hazelnuts on top. Lots of treats for the children to. Both Joe’s Bakery and The Breadstore will be open Good Friday (April 10th), but closed on Easter Monday. In the build-up to Mothering Sunday, Mother’s Day buns will be available on Saturday 21st March. For more information about Joe’s Bakery, visit:www.joesbakery. co.uk. Telephone: 0117 975 5551. Follow on facebook @ JoesBakerybristol. Joe's Bakery, 240-242 Gloucester Road, Bristol, BS7 8NZ. The Bread Store, 45 Gloucester Road, Bristol BS7 8AD
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 NEWS
CLIC Sargent named county cricket charity partner GLOUCESTERSHIRE Cricket has announced that CLIC Sargent, the UK’s leading charity for children and young people with cancer, will be one of three official charity partners for 2020, the Club’s 150th anniversary. This is the first season Gloucestershire Cricket has had official charity partners, with CLIC Sargent being the Club’s county based partner. The partnership will create opportunities to support the important work of the charity in Bristol, Gloucester and Cheltenham. Gloucestershire Cricket will be working throughout the year to support CLIC Sargent in raising awareness about their vital work providing emotional, financial and practical support to children and young people living with cancer. The charity will be involved in the Cheltenham Cricket Festival beginning on June 29, the England vs Australia Men’s One Day International and the Club’s Community Day on Sunday
26 July, both at Bristol County Ground. To round off the year, CLIC Sargent will be partnering with the Club for a Fireworks Night at Bristol County Ground. The family-friendly event will be a celebration to help bring the curtain down on the Club’s 150th year. The charity supports young people aged 25 and under during cancer treatment – providing social worker support, grants to
help with the financial impact of cancer, and ‘Homes from Home’ close to hospitals for families to stay in. There are two ‘Homes from Home’ in Bristol for families from across the south west to stay in to help with the emotional and financial strain of travelling for treatment. In the last year, more than 400 families have stayed at CLIC House and Sam’s House in Bristol, saving each family an average of £3,700.
Luke Mallett, Associate Director of Supporter Engagement at CLIC Sargent, said: “The efforts of the Club mean the charity will be able to continue to provide specialist support to local families facing cancer. We’re looking forward to getting involved in some fantastic events at the Club and in the community this year to raise vital funds for charity whilst celebrating 150 years of Gloucestershire Cricket.” Will Brown, Gloucestershire Cricket CEO said: “We had over 50 incredible organisations apply, but we were hugely moved and impressed by the work of CLIC Sargent, and their strong desire to form a close partnership with the Club. “It was fantastic to welcome a small group from CLIC Sargent to the ground today and give them an insight into what happens at Gloucestershire Cricket. We are excited by what can be achieved together and am sure our supporters will get behind this superb charity.”
Wood-burning stoves: a burning issue CONCERNS about the damage a wood burning stove causes to our air quality by releasing harmful particles when substances are burned have led to questions about how environmentally friendly these products are. Last month, Councillor Cleo Lake wrote in the Bishopston Voice that the council are considering banning wood burning stoves in the medium term. So, is a wood burning stove bad for the environment? According to the Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (Defra), the burning of solid fuels (such as house coal and wood) in our homes is the largest contributor of harmful particulatematter emissions. Fuels such as wet logs and house coal, have much more of an impact than others, as does burning on an open fire. In contrast, kiln dried logs and smokeless fuel are far more eco friendly fuels. Martin from Period Fireplaces believes that there have been massive strides in the stove industry in the 30 years he’s been involved and that modern, wood-burning stoves used in the correct way are extremely eco-friendly. He says: “There are two reports people cite, both of which measured the particulates of burning wood on open fires, using non-compliant and old stoves as well
as modern ones. It’s clear that open fires produce 90 per cent of particulates and use two thirds more fuel. “There is a three stage burn in a modern burner that gives an efficient gas air mix. I burn about one log an hour on my wood-
burner at home. “If your wood burning stove is 15 - 20 years old, you should consider replacing it with an eco-stove as old stoves don’t have a secondary combustion process which burns the particulates as well. “One of the problems is that some people will burn anything in their wood burner. I’ve seen nappies, plastic, old stereos and free wood out of a skip all used as fuel. We need to be using kiln-dried wood from sustainably grown trees. “The irony is that we are now legally fitting open fires using coal, when one compliant wood-burning stove is equal to the pollution of 90 open fires!” Limiting the sale of polluting fuels and buying an ‘Ecodesign ready’ stove which meets the emissions target for 2022 is recommended by The Stove Industry Alliance (SIA). The SIA says these stoves reduce potentially harmful particle emissions by more than 80%, compared with stoves made 10 years ago. Martin adds: “If we are going to be really eco-friendly, there needs to be a ban on open fires and regulations on pizza ovens and wood grills too.”
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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March, 2020
n FROM YOUR COUNCILLORS In Bishopston this month... Houses in Multiple Occupation – Planning Consultation The council is undertaking a consultation on a new piece of guidance to managing the development of Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs). The guidance will support existing planning policy used to decide on planning applications. HMOs are houses which are occupied by three or more people who are not related, and who share facilities such as a bathroom or kitchen. Student houses are a good example. The council is seeking to promote mixed and balanced communities, alongside high quality accommodation for all. The consultation closes on the 20th March and details can be found
here: tinyurl.com/HMO-SPD Local Cycling and Walking Infrastructure Plan The West of England Combined Authority and the local councils are working to create a plan for cycling and walking in the region. The plan identifies over £400m of investment and aims to provide high quality infrastructure to help promote cycling and walking as the preferred choice for shorter trips. Whilst written at a regional level, the plan includes some very local suggestions. The plan is currently out for consultation, closing on the 15th March. Details are available here: tinyurl.com/LCWIP West of England Bus Strategy
As part of the same transport planning process, the West of England Combined Authority and local councils are consulting on the bus strategy, which aims to improve the bus network and encourage further growth in bus usage. Like the Cycling and Walking plan, this is a regional plan with local implications and your input would be valuable. The aim is to create better, faster, more reliable and more accessible services which could double bus passenger numbers by 2036. The consultation closes on the 15th Mar. tinyurl.com/ WoEBus Wetherspoons The planning application to convert 349 Gloucester Road to
a Wetherspoons pub has been resubmitted by the applicant. We understand that the new application has no changes compared to the version submitted before Christmas. At the time of writing the application is not yet live for comments on the Council’s website, but residents can check by entering the address at planningonline.bristol.gov.uk 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
Funds awarded for more street trees Pauline Eyre
Louise Leigh
Midlife women turn a crisis into a comedy BISHOPSTON’S own Louise Leigh and Londoner Pauline Eyre have some big things in common: married, mums, middle-aged and both decided to take up stand-up comedy post-forty. “All my friends are either doing triathlons or Five Rhythms dance,” says Louise. “I talk about shaving my legs on stage. It’s definitely not the conventional midlife crisis.” Pauline and Louise met through national organisation, Funny Women, which aims to get more women into comedy. They instantly bonded over their late-stage blossoming as comedians, and now they’re collaborating to bring an evening of midlife-themed laughter to Alchemy 198 on Gloucester Road on Thursday 5 March. “We’re calling it ‘Midlife - no crisis’” says Pauline. “My show, All Change is about how I’m caring for my kids and for my lovely mum, but what happens when there is nobody left to care for? Will there still be a Pauline underneath? Meanwhile Louise’s show, Two-Thirds Spaniel is all about embracing your spirit animal, even when it’s ridiculous.” Doors open 7.30pm, comedy from 8.00pm. Tickets can be bought online at https://www.tickettailor.com/events/paulineeyre/ for £7 or £8 on the door (bring cash!).
BRISTOL has been awarded a share of £10 million from the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs and Forestry Commission from the Urban Tree Challenge Fund. Green Street Community Planting, a joint initiative between Bristol City Council and North Somerset Council, is one of thirteen projects across the UK handed funding to plant trees in their cities. Over 500 street trees and 10 small woodlands (an additional 3,000 trees) will be planted as a result of the project involving local communities in the selection of the trees, and encouraging volunteers to plant them and help with care and watering. The announcement follows Bristol City Council’s ambitions set out in the One City Plan to double the tree canopy in the city by 2045. Councillor Asher Craig, Deputy Mayor said: “Trees will be planted in areas where the benefit to the community will be greatest and where the tree canopy count is currently low.” Jon Clark, Executive Director of the Forest of Avon Trust – a key partner on the project - said: “We will bring the vision to life demonstrating how trees will fit into the street scene and what the benefits of planting these trees will be to the community. We’ll also talk to residents about how they can support the project and be involved with activities like tree watering.” Community consultation will start in June and tree planting will start in December when the new planting season begins.
Green Doors returns
Bristol’s Green Doors event is returning in May - and organisers need your help. They are looking for people willing to open their homes on May 16 and 17 and volunteers to act as stewards. A spokesman said: "Everyone - whether we own, rent or share can take action in our homes to reduce our reliance on fossil fuelled energy.Draught proofing, secondary glazing, water management, heat pumps - the impact of a few changes, small or large, can become hundreds, that lead to thousands, ultimately millions of homes drastically reducing our energy consumption. It starts with a conversation – sharing the knowledge that helps each other take the next step toward reaching a zero-carbon future." To get involved, go to www.bristolgreendoors.org/events
To advertise, contact Emma on 0117 9082121 or 07715 770448 or email emma@bishopstonvoice.co.uk. Got news? Email: news@bishopstonvoice.co.uk
bishopstonvoice
March, 2020
n FROM YOUR COUNCILLORS In Cotham this month... No.9 Bus service consultation With no solution from the Mayor on local buses at Full Council Anthony met with three directors of First Bus and BCC Officers in late January to make a case for an improved and extended service. First Bus have agreed to review this in time for the new schedules in September. Usage needs to improve but Anthony suggested ways that costs may be reduced by adapting the underused 72 service and some integration with the 8. The journeys they all make alongside many other services (including trains) via Temple Meads, where they suffer delays, could be thinned so focusing on local connecting services. First Bus acknowledged this approach but are sceptical about re-merging the now-profitable 8 with the 9. BCC and residents have no control over this private virtual monopoly. With improved wholejourney ticketing it is possible to re-imagine more service 9 buses feeding in to other routes from Blackboy Hill, Whiteladies and
Gloucester Road. First Bus wants the no.9 to be more profitable by attracting more passengers. To do that it needs to be more reliable, have an attractive route and offer better connectivity. This might be achieved by reducing its costs. The company has agreed to review their operating costs and to hold local community consultation meetings (in Redland parish church and Cotham parish church halls) very soon, so watch out for announcements. If you want to be sure of direct notification please forward your e-address ideally, or call me. I hope these meetings will attract a good crowd to impress the value of this service - but each private service is required to be profitable until we have a franchised bus system. To give your opinion to help shape the future of our bus services see: Cotham & Redland (9 & 72) Consultation live 17 February to 29 March 2020 Anthony Negus cllr.anthony.negus@bristol.gov.uk /07833 484344
Become a Tai Chi Instructor FRIENDS Ageing Better is once again, offering free training to over 50s, to learn a basic sequence of Qigong Shibashi Tai Chi to then teach it to others in the community. Tai Chi Qigong Shibashi is designed to help to improve mental health and physical wellbeing. Qigong means 'energy exercise' and Shibashi means 18 movements. This exercise can be done sitting or standing, which makes it very accessible. Its benefits have shown it can improve balance and cognitive function as well as aid with pain management. Tai Chi is recommended by the NHS as helping to improve balance and coordination. The training involves attending a taster session, and weekly home practice before attending a weekend workshop. The training is likely to start in May 2020 at a Bristol Central venue. Mary Kroeber, Instructor, trained in 2019 with FAB and leads a free weekly class for over 50s at the Ardagh on Kellaway Ave every Tuesday from 10am. Mary says: “I love teaching Tai Chi, it makes me feel good and I know people are enjoying themselves because they keep coming back.” To find out more about how to become a Tai Chi Qigong Shibashi instructor, please contact Friends Ageing Better on email fab@ ageukbristol.org.uk or by calling 0117 440 4301.
Community cohesion at Cotham School I welcome the recent initiative of Cotham School to arrange a community meeting that gathered together local residents, the local councillors (including myself ), teachers, shopkeepers and others. Chaired by the Head Teacher, the meeting was an opportunity to learn a bit about the history of the school which, along with Cotham Gardens, is a co operative academy. The Head reiterated that Cotham School is now fully comprehensive and has been for some time despite the fact that the name Cotham Grammar for some still remains in circulation. It was interesting to hear more about the diverse makeup of the school and that students travel near and far to attend. Surprise came with the statistic that 70% of the students are male presumably something that may have been impacted by Colston’s Girls School also becoming an academy. Over 50 languages are spoken by students and the school also has a high proportion nationally of students with special educational needs and or the need for emotional and mental health support. As a consequence the school has employed a full time social worker as a member of staff. The meeting was well attended
33 and did try to focus on solutions and mutual support moving forwards regarding some of the recent issues of litter dropping, noise and the misunderstood media construed hype of the so called ‘fast food shop ban’. There were some opposing views in the meeting but what was clear is that everyone was on board to move forward inclusively as a community and I do hope that this may signal the start of more engagement and partnership working. An ‘easy win’ came with a new bin that has been installed in the area following requests towards the end of last year and this seems to be making a positive impact. It shocks me that anyone should be dropping litter anywhere but still, I’m glad that the situation is improving. My only criticism which I mentioned at the meeting was that there wasn’t a youth representative there to speak on their behalf. I strongly believe that forums and meetings concerning young people should, where practical, involve young people - this could for example be a member of the school council or even perhaps, a representative from the City Youth Council. Cleo Alberta Lake cllr.cleo.lake@bristol.gov.uk 07584 480531
New community hub and cafe opens at Ardagh THE new Cafe on the Common and a year-round Community Hub is opening at Horfield Common at the end of February. Join the Ardagh Community Trust, friends, neighbours and supporters to celebrate the opening of the new, fully accessible, community hub and cafe facility on 29 February from 10am - 12pm. Bishopston Councillor Tom Brook says: “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.”
Bristol Come Dancing 2020 BACK by popular demand, Bristol Come Dancing 2020 is rising from its sequinned stupor, to revive the positivity-infused fundraising collaboration between Aid Box Community, Temwa and you! Think Strictly, but with a thoroughly Bristol edge. Volunteers are learning two different routines, in two different styles, with training from experienced professional dance teachers. The couples are refining their routines ready for a performance at the live competition, taking place in front of a supportive audience and panel of judges on Saturday 28 March at Boomtown’s new Bristol venue, Area 404.
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 literally years of waiting, repairs are at long last under way 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 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. After repeated pressure via council lawyers adding their efforts we are delighted 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.
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. We’ve also been following up drainage issues affecting paths. Potholes 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-street-
March, 2020
issue Please report what needs to be fixed in case no one one else has! Several people have been in touch about the dire condition of the junction of Kersteman and Cranbrook Road. We alerted Highways who did a temporary fix and we are pressing to get this area pushed to the top of the list for resurfacing as its still broken up and really pretty dangerous. Parking issues We’ve been told that initial results from the Council led parking survey will be available in mid March. Apparently the response rate was around 38% which is high for a council survey so clearly this is an important issue for residents. Frustratingly, it seems unlikely that any proposals to sort out Redland’s dangerous parking situation will be set out any time soon. We know residents outside the survey area have also got many concerns and frustrations. We’ve also represented concerns about the impact of the Mayor’s
proposed Clean Air Zone on local streets such as rat running and displaced pollution to avoid charges. NEG planning application A revised proposal from NEG has been lodged. This proposes flats and an updated retail showroom, but the current warehouse is to be relocated elsewhere. The plans take account of some previous concerns and would presumably curtail the many delivery lorry movements affecting Berkeley Rd. We want to see the sponsored street tree outside protected from damage. [Ref. No: 20/00022/F on the council planning page]
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n FROM YOUR COUNCILLORS In St Andrews this month... BRISTOL has declared an Ecological Emergency in response to escalating threats to wildlife and ecosystems. There has been a worrying decline in numbers and diversity of wildlife in the city and more widely in recent years, with 15% of British wildlife now at risk of extinction. The ecological emergency declaration builds on Bristol’s declaration of a climate emergency in 2018 and recognises these two threats to our wellbeing. Local people are being encouraged to give their views on new plans to substantially improve bus travel, walking and cycling in the West of England. The West of England Combined Authority (WECA) is running consultations on a regional Bus Strategy and a Local Cycling and Walking Infrastructure Plan (LCWIP). The bus strategy outlines how the Combined Authority’s ambition of doubling bus passenger numbers by 2036 can be achieved by improving the network, doubling frequency on some routes and creating better,
faster, more reliable and more accessible services across the West of England. The Local Cycling and Walking Infrastructure Plan outlines £400m of infrastructure projects that could dramatically improve cycling and walking across the region and help to make active travel the preferred choice for shorter trips. To give your views on bus services, cycling and walking in the West of England, visit travelwest.info/ transportconsultations before 15 March. Drivers in Bristol are being asked to switch off their engines while parked or stopped for 1 minute or more to improve air quality. As part of a wider No Idling campaign aimed at changing drivers’ behaviour, volunteers led by Bristol City Council have been speaking with drivers about the dangers of idling. Car drivers who leave their engine running unnecessarily while waiting contribute to air pollution, to which 300 deaths are attributed
to in the city each year. For more information, visit cleanairforbristol. org/noidling. Bristol City Council is seeking views on new draft guidance on policies used to decide planning applications for houses in multiple occupation (HMOs). The new draft guidance identifies when harmful HMO concentrations are likely to arise and aims to achieve good standards of accommodation where new HMOs are permitted. To view the proposals and comment on the new draft guidance, visit bit. ly/2SnXjKW before 20 March. The March Full Council will be held on Tuesday 17 March at 6.00pm 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. There is a public forum at the start of the meeting for members of the public to make representations. Members of the public are able to submit questions to the Mayor, present petitions, or read out statements (on any topic). These should be submitted to democratic.services@bristol.gov.
35
uk by 5.00pm on Wednesday 11 March for questions and midday on Monday 16 March for petitions and statements. 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 1.00pm – 2.00pm, 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
What could you and your community make happen in your park? The way our parks will be managed is changing. It’s important that we understand what’s already happening and your contribution can help shape the future of our parks. Come and have a conversation about the Bristol Future Parks project and the opportunities to get involved in making your local green space better. Register for your local community event at:
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March, 2020
n HOME IMPROVEMENT
Six tips for choosing a reliable handyperson WHETHER it’s fixing a leaking tap, cleaning out the guttering or mending fences, it can be hard to find a reliable handyperson you can trust to do the work. If the work is for an elderly close relative and you don’t live in the area it can be even harder. Fortunately, there are a few steps you can take to minimise the risk and stress. 1. Get more than one quote Three quotes will give you an idea of the market price and is a good way to ensure you are not being overcharged. At the same time be wary of any quote that is suspiciously low as you don’t want someone who is going to cut corners or use cheap materials. 2. Do your research Ask friends or relatives if they can recommend a reliable handyperson. You can also check what people are saying online.
Most organisations will have been reviewed by previous customers on Google or Facebook. 3. Look for independent approval Choosing an organisation that has been assessed and approved by an external body such as Trading Standards Approved or Which? magazine can give you some reassurance about their trustworthiness. Some organisations may also have longstanding relationships with local councils. 4. Don’t be intimidated and do ask questions If the handyperson or customer service representative is using language you don’t understand then tell them and ask can they give it to you in layman’s terms. An organisation that cares about its customers will understand this and adjust their lingo accordingly. 5. Go with your gut instinct
If someone makes you uncomfortable either over the phone or face to face, then it’s unlikely you’ll be able to relax when they doing work are in your home. It’s your home, so it’s important that you feel at ease. 6. Don’t pay until the job is done This is an important one and you should absolutely stick to this rule. Never pay a handyperson in full up front unless you know they are trustworthy from experience. However, there may be times when a deposit or an advanced payment for materials is appropriate. How we can help We Care have been in the home maintenance business for over 30 years and we’re pleased to say that our handyperson service is Trading Standards Approved. Our handypersons can handle a multitude of different jobs. We are
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March, 2020
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n VINEYARD NEWS with INGRID BATES n NEWS SPRING is creeping ever closer which can sometimes mean we see bigger temperature fluctuations from one day to the next. After the particularly wet and dreary winter we’ve had, it feels so lovely to have the odd warm and sunny day but those warm days can sometimes cause confusion to vines. This confusion can lead to buds developing and bursting too early, way before the frost risk has passed. So without wishing to sound like a killjoy, I am hoping the average temperature stays boringly cold and stable until at least the end of March! In the vineyard I’ve been pushing forward with the vine pruning and am currently around the halfway mark. Relaxing as pruning is, it can get a little monotonous so I try and liven things up with the occasional bonfire or willow tree pruning session. Both these tasks help with mildew control as burning the vine prunings kills off fungal spores and thinning the willow windbreak allows greater airflow in the vineyard. I’m still amazed that the stubby willow sticks we pushed
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into the ground around five years ago are now nearly 30 foot tall! Be careful if you plant them in your garden at home… On the wine front we are eagerly awaiting the release of our new rosé in a few weeks time but are still selling the sparkly red and white in the meantime. hello@dunleavyvineyards.co.uk www.dunleavyvineyards.co.uk @DYvineyards (twitter) dunleavy vineyards (facebook & instagram)
THE Alzheimer’s Society is inviting fundraisers from Bishopston, Redland and across Bristol to get their GLOW on and unite against dementia by taking part in its night-time Memory Walk at Millennium Square on Friday 6 March 2020. Fundraisers are invited to dress up in the GLOW-in-the-dark best, grab your glow sticks and unite against dementia by walking a route around the harbourside in celebration of a family member, friend, or colleague affected by the condition. Dementia is now the UK’s biggest killer with someone developing it every three minutes, yet dementia research still trails far behind other health conditions after decades of underfunding. Taking part in a GLOW walk will help the Alzheimer’s Society improve care, fund research and create lasting change for people affected by dementia. The Society has invested £5.6 million in three Centres of Excellence across the UK, and as a founder of the UK Dementia Research Institute (DRI), their £50m investment will power discoveries to prevent, treat and care for people with all types of dementia, as well as helping us to understand how to keep the brain healthy. Registration is open now at: memorywalk.org.uk/find-a-walk/ glow-bristol-2020/
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March, 2020
n NATURE WATCH With Dawn Lawrence
A
T this time of year we can still see some of last year’s birds’ nests. Sometimes they are in the most unlikely and even perilous places and perhaps represent a first attempt by beginner parents. A nest in a straggly shrub in a tiny front garden, for example, or in the branches of a street tree, right next to a street-lamp (surely that’s going to keep the nestlings awake!) I have mentioned some distinctive nests before in these pages – the expanding nest of the long-tailed tit, elasticated with spider silk to accommodate a growing family; the domed
Photo courtesy of Rupert Higgins
nest of the magpies who build a roof over their heads; and the minimalist structure of the woodpigeon, so sparsely twiggy that you can look up through it from below and spot the eggs. Even the balancing act of a wood-pigeon’s nest is an impressive feat considering the birds have only a bill to work with. When the more intricate creations of some of our common garden birds are considered, well, I challenge anyone to create something like a thrush’s nest using just a tiny pair of forceps and one hand tied behind your back! The female song thrush builds the nest alone, well hidden by foliage. She weaves a rounded cup from grasses, twigs, moss and roots as if she has twisted together the contents of a junior school nature table. She then lines it with a layer of mud and the end result is astonishingly regular (see photo). The theory for this unforgiving surface (more like an enamelled bath than a cosy cot) is that it prevents cuckoos from hoisting the nestlings out of the nest – they cannot push a smooth egg out of such a smooth nest. The female blue tit also builds the nest with little or no help from the male. She takes moss, often collecting it from garden lawns, and forms it into a cup inside a hole in a tree, or perhaps a more eccentric cavity, such as an old pair of
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boots or a discarded kettle. Because of this preference for hollow structures the blue tit has adapted well to artificial nest boxes. The tiny entrance hole protects their nestlings from most predators. To complete her work she lines it with soft feathers, fur or wool to swaddle her many eggs. The female wren is a more liberated bird. She waits whilst her potential mate constructs several nests and then she inspects them, I imagine with a rather haughty and judgmental look on her face. Finally, if he has managed to impress her sufficiently, she chooses one, lines it carefully herself with soft material (she can’t trust her man to do that bit, pillows and throws are a woman’s business!) and lays her eggs. It's not too late to put up nest boxes for this year – especially if the weather has remained cold. Choose a sheltered spot (not facing south, they get too hot) and keep a look out for visitors.
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March, 2020
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n WHAT’S ON IN OUR AREA 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. 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. Tuesday March 10 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. More information is on the website: www.theartssociety-bristol.org.uk March 11-13 n Fairfield High School presents Aladdin - a middle eastern celebration! Tickets available from reception, £4 adults, £3 children. Doors open at 6pm for 6.30pm performance, Allfoxton Road, BS7 9NL. Saturday March 14 n Workshop by International Medium, Brenda Lawrence: Enhancing Your Gifts of the Spirit. Sat March 14th, 10am-4pm. For beginners and intermediates. Westbury Park Spiritualist Church, Cairns Road, BS6 7TH. Tickets £20 - 0117 977 1629. Info: www. westburyparkspiritualistchurch. org March 26-28 n Charade Drama presents The Shakespeare Show, a compilation of two one-act comedies by Nick Warburton (Don't Blame it on the Boots and The Droitwich Discovery)
and a comedy sketch by Hannah Thomas (Romeo and Juliet - Sped Up), all with a Shakespearean theme. Thursday 26 to Saturday 28 March, 7.30pm, Methodist Church Hall, Westbury Hill, Westbury-onTrym, BS9 3AA, large free car park next door. Tickets £8, Box Office 0117 9515147 or 'on-the-door'. Wednesday March 18 n Friends of Welsh National Opera welcome visitors to an evening entitled The Fund Raising Years on Wednesday 18 March 2020 at 7.15 at Redmaids High School. Sally Ann Bird has been working at WNO for some 30 years, many of which have been spent as the Friends’ Officer. She will be in conversation with Andy Taylor, the former long-serving Friends’ Manager, about her time with the Company and will be presenting some of her favourite music. Friends £5, Guests £7, Students £1. Contact Melanie David at melaniejdavid@btinternet.com or on 01934 842014 for more information.
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 6PR-
show 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 n Bristol Steiner School Parent & Child offers a setting where each child is cherished as an individual, nurturing their wellbeing and self-belief in a safe environment. The sessions run from Monday to Thursday (9.30am to 12.00pm) at Bristol Steiner School, Redland Hill House, BS6 6UX throughout school term times. To book a free taster session, please contact Reception on 0117 933 9990 or email reception@bristolsteinerschool.org 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
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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March, 2020
nW HAT’S ON IN OUR AREA 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, 7.30pm9.30pm, 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
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0117 973 4912
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.
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
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n WHAT’S ON IN OUR AREA 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 n Bristol Bridge Club New Weekly “Drop In Wednesday” - social bridge Starting Wednesday 8 March, 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
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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
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n WHAT'S ON CONTINUED 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 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, held at 7.00pm in St Andrew’s Methodist Church, Filton, BS34 7PS. Tel 07587143220 Friday n Fancy Feet Over 50's Ceili Group An easy-going and sociable Irish dance class for over fifties, aiming to promote mobility and improve health. Fridays 10:4511:45am at B&A Main Hall, 160A Gloucester Road, BS7 8NT. £6. Contact Katie horizondancecompany@gmail. com / 07745 149824 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 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 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 £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.
Bristol Home Library Service If you can’t get to the library due to mobility, disability or caring responsibilities and would like a monthly supply of library books delivered to you at home please contact Bristol Home Library Service on 0117 929 7444 or email BHLSVisits@royalvoluntaryservice. org.uk
Mensa science day MENSA is holding a science day in Bristol on Saturday 28 March at The friends Meeting House 300 Gloucester Road. Speakers include local Councillor Martin Fodor, who will be giving details about Smart Cities and a fellow of the Royal Aeronautical Society will be explaining about Electric Aircraft. A researcher will talk about using MRI to treat epilepsy and a lecturer from Bristol University will report on the Phoenix unmanned aerial vehicle. The event is open to nonmembers. No previous knowledge is needed - just an intelligent inquiring mind. 10am to 4pm, cost £7.50. Full details and booking at https://www.mensa.org.uk/ public-events
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 YOGA BLOG
Yoga for Health by Diana Penny of Yogawest (www.yogawest.co.uk)
Yoga Pose of the Month:
Dandasana (Staff pose) into Baddha Konasana Following on from the last few months of standing poses, the last few poses until August will complete this year’s sequence with a more restful approach. Dandasana and Baddha Konasana are sitting poses, good for core body strength, pelvic floor, hip flexibility and spinal health. To go into Dandasana: Sit flat on the floor (or yoga mat) and if
your spine is dropping (and you are slumping back), add enough support to sit on – either yoga blocks or folded blankets – so that you can bring your pelvis to vertical. Straighten your legs away, extending well towards the inner heels, and pressing the back of the legs down towards the floor. Grip the hips well. Press the hands down into the floor or onto your lift (bending the elbows if your arms are longer) and lift the chest. If you can’t reach the floor, place a belt around the feet and hold one side of it with each hand. Hold for a few breaths, but if not comfortable go to the next pose.
To go into Baddha Konasana: From Dandasana, draw your knees out to the side and join the soles of your feet together. Bring your feet towards your pelvis, but not so much that your knees are high up: if this happens you need to sit on more height. If you have long arms, interlink your fingers and hold underneath the feet, ensuring your chest stays lifted. If your chest drops, then use a belt underneath your feet instead and hold each side of the belt with your hands. Lift the side trunk, draw the shoulders back and down and pull up through your arms to lift the chest and broaden the collar
bones. Bring the head in line with the spine and eyes at eye level. Hold for a few breaths. CAUTIONS If your back is not comfortable in either pose, don’t stay: come out, rest and then repeat if you can. 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 and general classes.
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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
Old age is a time when you can really fulfil your potential. B
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Judith, Ambassador of the Bristol Older People’s Forum. Age 81. www.agefriendlybristol.org.uk
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n AGE PROUD BRISTOL
‘Every day, every year counts’
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studies found that people who perceived later life in a more positive way tended to live longer and experience better health. For Colin, later life hasn’t been what he expected. “I didn’t expect to be getting married and having a swell time!” Colin says. Colin came out as a gay man in his 60s. He fell in love with his now husband, and together they run a social group for LGBT+ people of all ages. Colin said that for him, later life has been a period of joy. “One of the brilliant things about reaching Judith Brown, of Bristol Older later life is that you stop caring so People's Forum much what other people think of challenge more of the negative you, and understand better what Old age is a timeabout whenolder you can stereotypes age really and you need in order to feel content. It fulfil your potential. look forward to a period of time all depends on your circumstances,Judith, Ambassador of the Bristol when they can continue to enjoy but for me, getting older has Older People’s Forum. Age 81. life as they choose. meant I’m a little more financially www.agefriendlybristol.org.uk • This is the third article in a series of well off, I’ve got the time and the three, inspired by older people based money to pursue my hobbies - like in Bristol. Find out more about the Age photography and oil painting.” Proud Bristol campaign by visiting www. Every person’s experience of agefriendlybristol.org.uk or search ageing will be different of course, #AgeProudBristol on Twitter and take but BAB hope that following part in the conversation about ageism this series of articles, readers will in Bristol. RIEN -F
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learning difficulties. Due to health conditions, Joyce needed to retire early. Unfortunately, Joyce’s condition worsened and she made the decision to have her left leg amputated below the knee. But, Joyce didn’t let the operation hold her back. Joyce is out and about most days of the week, enjoying her role as the Malcolm X Elders Coordinator. “I love talking, meeting people and having a good laugh, it makes my day. You have to make the most of every day as you see. I enjoy my life. Every day, every year counts.” For Joyce, getting older is a celebration. Her mother died young and so every year Joyce experiences, she is grateful for. “I still have life. I have it really to the full. I just want to live it and live it, and do it and do it and enjoy it and enjoy it. In the club, there is a lady in her 90s; I just hope I get there!” Having a positive outlook on later life can affect how you age. A 2014 review of multiple research
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EOPLE seem to dread getting older, despite evidence that shows we tend to become happier at this stage of life. This comes from a variety of studies looking at the ‘U-Shaped Curve of Happiness’, which found that self-reported happiness levels are often highest in early childhood and later life. As a part of the Age Proud Bristol campaign, which challenges negative perceptions of older people, Bristol Ageing Better (BAB) spoke to Joyce Montague (62), Coordinator of the Malcolm X Elders Group and Colin O’Brien (71), Chairperson of Gaywest, about their experience of getting older. “I don’t let anything stop me.” says Joyce. “There’s good and bad about getting older, but if you’re positive about life, you shouldn’t be scared of getting older.” Joyce came to Bristol in 1971 and worked all her adult life in a job she loved, as a nurse supporting people with
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n MESSAGE FROM AVON & SOMERSET PCC
Extra 84p a month will fund better support for victims
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AST month, the Police and Crime Panel backed my decision to increase the policing part of the council tax by £10 a year – less than 84p a month – for the average band D household. The decision follows a public consultation with local people who said they would support an increase in the precept. I was pleased that the Panel supported my decision but I am always conscious that any increase in household bills is felt by local people. I never take the decision to raise the policing part of the council tax lightly. It continues to be a priority of mine to put victims first and this increase means we can invest in an additional 75 police staff investigators who will help improve outcomes for victims. It
has never been more important to me to ensure victims have a voice and feel encouraged to come forward and speak out. Concerns have quite rightly been growing across the country as we hear of more young people becoming involved in serious violence. The additional funding will also go towards maintaining the 15 additional PCSOs who are working closely with local schools. This work allows the police and partners to capitalise on opportunities to intervene early to prevent the harm that such violence causes to young individuals, families and communities. We need to make sure we are doing everything we can to stop young people becoming victims of serious violence and the Panel’s decision to back the increase will help this
on-going work. Child Sexual Exploitation (CSE) awareness day is taking place this month. CSE is a form of child abuse in which victims are manipulated or forced into taking part in sexual activity often in return for attention, affection, money, drugs, alcohol or accommodation. Victims of CSE are extremely vulnerable and many do not recognise that they are being exploited. We can never underestimate the damaging effects such a crime can have on victims. In order to tackle CSE for good, we need long term and consistent support to help children to survive and recover from their experiences. The police, educators, healthcare professionals and charities need
With Police and Crime Commissioner Sue Mountstevens
to continue to work closely in partnership and be the ones to ask, ask again and keep asking so we can stop this horrendous crime and help victims rebuild their lives. The exploitation and abuse of children is happening now and together we need to stop it today.
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 BISHOPSTON LIBRARY BOOKS OF THE MONTH
Little Leaders: Bold Women in Black History by Vashti Harrison. Reviewed by Bob Deacon Vashti Harrison is an African American artist and film maker. This inspiring children’s book grew out of a Black History Month project, when Vashti challenged herself to illustrate one African American woman for every day of the month with a summary of their accomplishments. The book gives us forty trailblazing women and their life stories. We meet Mary Prince, who was born into slavery in Bermuda but managed to escape to freedom
when her owner travelled to England. In 1831, she wrote and published her autobiography, detailing her brutal upbringing as a plantation slave, helping to facilitate the passing of the Slavery Abolition Act in 1833. We discover Willian Brown, a black woman who disguised herself as a man in order to serve in the Royal Navy in 1815. After 27 days, her true identity was discovered and she was discharged having become the first black female to serve in the British navy. The Jamaican Mary Seacole, who nursed British soldiers during the Crimean War, is featured as is the abolitionist Harriet Tubman who led more than 70 slaves to freedom via the Underground Railroad. We also hear the little known story of Ida Wells who was born a slave in Mississippi and who became a teacher after emancipation. In 1884, some 71 years before Rosa Parks, Ida refused to give up her seat in a woman only carriage on a train and was forcibly removed to the African American carriage. Undaunted, she won a legal case against the railway company, giving black women the right to travel in a women only carriage.
We also discover pioneers, such as Bessie Coleman, the first African American woman to get a pilot licence, Althea Gibson, the first black woman to compete at Wimbledon and Diane Abbott, the first black woman MP. This is a beautifully written and illustrated book, which should inspire all young girls, irrespective of their colour.
The Boy At The Back Of The Class by Onjali Q. Rauf Reviewed by Reuben Rogers Age 9 The Boy At The Back Of The Class is a book you’ll never forget. It’s a book based on a refugee from
Syria called Ahmet who has lost his mother, father and sister. His sister unfortunately drowned on the family’s way to a refugee camp. The gates that let refugees into England were being closed so Ahmet’s mum and dad wouldn’t be able to find Ahmet. So his friends go on a mission to stop the gates from closing. I thought this was a brilliant book that has some breathtaking moments and it’s just a maze of excitement and adventure to anyone who reads it. For these books and many more, come and 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 the LibrariesWest catalogue 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
n NEWS FROM FRIENDS OF BISHOPSTON LIBRARY
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UR Games evenings for adults continue, with a variety of traditional and modern board and card games on offer. Whatever your preferred type of game, be it word based, strategy or just plain luck, there is something for everyone; or bring along a favourite to share with others. Games evenings are relaxed and sociable, our next events are on Monday 9 March and Wednesday 25 March. The £2 entry fee 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.
Our next lunchtime talk is on Friday 20 March, when local author Lucienne Boyce will tell us about her award winning Dan Foster Mysteries. These thrillers set in the eighteenth century feature the exploits of Bow Street Runner and amateur pugilist Dan Foster. As a well-known local writer of historical fiction, non-fiction and biography, Lucienne’s mysteries are well grounded in research. She is also a big fan of libraries and the Friends groups that support them. Her talk is from 1 – 2pm in the library meeting room. Book in the library, through contacts below, or turn up on the day; tickets cost £3 including a hot drink or fruit juice.
combined ‘walk and talk’ event, with a walk setting off from the library in the early evening, followed by a talk from Robin Tetlow, author of two best-selling Beyond Bristol Walks books. More details to follow next month about our April and May events.
Our celebration of World Book Night (the grown up version of World Book day) on Thursday 23 April is a chance for some informal book talk. What are the books that have made a lasting impression on you, and are there any that despite your best intentions you never finished – or possibly never even started? Are there best loved books from your childhood that got you into the reading habit? Which authors are guaranteed to please? Whatever your reading interests, come along and tell others about them. On Friday 1 May from 11 – 12.30pm, we will have a May Day café to mark the library’s third birthday. And on Thursday 14 May we will have a
The Friends are also supporting The Truth Sleuth, a touring production from The Modest Genius theatre company organised by Bristol Libraries. They will be performing at Bishopston Library on Friday 17 April. The Truth Sleuth is on the case of fake news, helping you to think critically about what you read and what you can trust. An adventure comedy for everyone aged 7 and up; tickets available from 5 March. If you’re thinking of getting into family history but not sure how to set about it, 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 www. bishopstonlibrary.org.uk or contact us at friends@bishopstonlibrary.org.uk.
View us online at 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
bishopstonvoice
March, 2020
47
n MAYOR'S VIEW
Launch of the Year of Can Do
L
AST week saw the launch of the Year of Can Do 2020, a year of activity to inspire, motivate and support the citizens of Bristol to get involved in their community. It’s about sharing skills, knowledge and time, accessing volunteering opportunities and celebrating the huge positive impact social action has on our city. The Year of Can Do is being led by local Bristol community organisations including Knowle West Media Centre and Up Our Street, and will be packed with events, training and opportunities. Having spent time working in the voluntary and community sector, I know the vital role these organisations play in shaping the identity of a place. I’m proud of Bristol’s reputation for independent spirit and community action, and of the things we have achieved by collectively stepping up and demanding better. There are thousands of people
in the city who give their time each year to helping others. Many volunteer with third sector organisations or with other services such as hospitals, schools, parks and libraries. But there is also a groundswell of individuals who offer support or give their time for free to their friends, neighbours, local communities, faith and cultural groups. I want to thank all those who give their time to making our city a better place for everyone. We want to celebrate all these acts of kindness, large or small, during the Year of Can Do. Those that are already active in their community serve as inspiration to us all - and we want to encourage more people to get involved. But it’s not just about what you can give - there is so much to gain from getting involved in your local community. Volunteering can offer you skills, keep you active and allow you to connect with others. It can be a channel
through which to empower those who may not typically get a seat at the table, and then there’s the sense of satisfaction that so many volunteers report. A great way to get involved is to connect with your neighbours and others Can Do Bristol (www. candobristol.co.uk), Bristol’s dedicated new web platform for enabling and celebrating community action in the city. It has been developed by partners across Bristol and is an easy way to find information on campaigns, events, training and volunteering opportunities throughout the year. You can use it to find out what’s happening near where you live, take part in local initiatives or create your own. There will also be a Can Do Festival running from 2-15 March. The festival will offer the opportunity to attend training, take part in events and activities, share your learning or discover something new.
The Mayor’s View Each month Bristol mayor Marvin Rees shares his views with Bishopston Voice
So, what is it you feel most passionate about? What change would you most like to see and how can you help to make that a reality? Bristol belongs to the people who live, work and study here. We want to empower more people to positively shape their communities through volunteering and neighbourly activity. Together, we can deliver a Bristol that works for everybody. If you are interested in hosting an event during the Can Do Festival or finding out more, please email Josephine@kwmc.org.uk.
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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
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March, 2020
n VETS' ADVICE
Caution over High St and online pet parasite treatments
M
OST pet owners are aware of the importance of flea and worm treatment. We advise keeping your dog and cat continually protected against fleas and ticks and using regular worming treatments. Fleas are extremely irritating to both you and your pet, can carry disease and can quickly infest your home. Ticks can carry Lyme's disease that can infect both animals and humans. Worms can also be passed on to humans via the worm eggs shed in your dog’s poo, which can cause serious infection or even blindness; especially in children. The best kinds of flea treatments provide continual protection for four weeks or longer and kill adult fleas quickly. It is also an added bonus if your flea treatment deals with other external
parasites like ticks and fox mange. You should be worming your dog at least every three months. This will depend to some extent on your dog or cat’s individual lifestyle. There has recently been an increase in the number of online pharmacies offering pet parasite treatments delivered straight to your door. Take care with these offers because, unless these
products have been ordered using a veterinary prescription, then they are unlikely to be as effective. Reasons why high street or online treatments are not advised: • Some products have no active ingredient listed on the packaging. • Some products contain chemicals listed as having an ‘unclear’ method of action. • Some wormers have no effect on the developing larvae and so only kill adult worms thus the lifecycle is poorly controlled and the pet is still infected. • Some wormers contain an active ingredient that does not treat against tapeworms or lungworms. • Correct dosing depends on accurate weighing of your pet. Some owners believe that because a treatment is bought over the counter that it is very safe and can accidentally overdose. Alternatively the owner may not be able to weigh their pet accurately and therefore underdose. • Some flea treatments are not providing extended protection but are just killing fleas over a period of 24 hours - fleas can re-
Holly Scrimshaw MRCVS infest your pet the next day. • S hampoos and sprays are not as effective as spot ons or tablets. At the Animal Health Centre, we are now offering a text reminder system for flea and worming treatments and also a ‘click and collect’ option. This will hopefully make it easier for owners to keep on top of their pet’s parasites.
Gloucester Road’s Independent Veterinary Practice 358 Gloucester Road, Horfield, Bristol BS7 8TP 0117 9247832 www.animalhealthcentre.org
that Slimming World feeling! MONDAY
The Doug Daniels Pavilion, Filton Leisure Centre, Elm Park, BS34 7PS 6.00 p.m. Contact: Carolyn - 07715 942226
WEDNESDAY
Horfield Leisure Centre, Dorian Road, BS7 0XW 3.30 p.m, 5.30 p.m & 7.30 p.m. Contact: Carolyn - 07715 942226
THURSDAY
Bishopston B & A Church, 160 Gloucester Road, BS7 8NT 9.00 a.m, 11.00 a.m, 5.30 p.m & 7.30 p.m. Contact: Sue - 07702 578298
slimmingworld.co.uk 0344 897 8000
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March, 2020
n PHARMACY BLOG
0117 9246579 18 Kellaway Avenue, Westbury Park, Bristol, BS6 7XR
This column by Jess Williams of Kellaway Pharmacy aims to help educate patients on a range of conditions and provide information to help maintain their well being while also easing pressure on GP surgeries by promoting self care.
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Face mask or hand sanitiser? How to beat the Coronavirus EVERYONE is talking about the Coronavirus, called COVID-19 by the World Health Organization. Conspiracy theories about its origin, intertwined with apocalyptic predictions, are causing lots of anxiety. People are stocked up on antiseptic hand gels, disinfectants and are now desperately trying to get hold of face masks, which sadly do not offer much protection anyway. What exactly is going on and how can we stay safe and healthy? Firstly, Coronavirus is a large group of viruses that are common among animals. This outbreak began in Wuhan, China—a city of 11 million people—in December 2019. Cases are now spreading across the world, including the UK. How does it spread? Although this Coronavirus initially spread from animals to humans, we now know anyone infected can pass it on to someone else. Like the common cold, the coronavirus is spread via droplets when a person coughs or sneezes. This means that coughs, droplets on hands during food preparation and when sharing door handles, can also spread it. What are the symptoms? Coronavirus and flu share many similar symptoms, making it difficult to diagnose without a test. The main symptoms to look out for are fever and a cough. People with Coronavirus may experience extreme breathing difficulties. More severe symptoms occur in people with weakened immune systems, older people, and those with long-term conditions like diabetes, cancer and chronic lung disease. What are the available vaccinations or treatment? You can recover, although there are no specific
treatments or vaccines presently. This is why unusual and extreme precautions are now so important. The lockdown of Hubei province where the outbreak originated and numerous transport restrictions have been put in place by the Chinese government. Foreign nationals continue to be evacuated, with subsequent quarantine procedures in place upon their return home. Are you travelling to China? Please check for regularly updated advice provided by the Foreign and Commonwealth Office. Our NHS is one of the first countries in the world to have developed a test for the new virus. The critical protection advice is that if you have travelled from Wuhan or Hubei Province to the UK, or have developed symptoms of cough, fever or shortness of breath after returning to the UK from another part of China, Thailand, Japan, South Korea, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Singapore, Malaysia, Macau in the last 14 days, you should immediately: • stay indoors and avoid contact with other people • do not visit A&E, your GP or local pharmacy • call NHS 111 to inform them of your recent travel to the area. A crucial part of our defence is remembering the ‘Catch it, Bin it, Kill it’ message used against flu. • Always carry tissues to catch coughs and sneezes and bin them immediately. • Wash hands with soap and water, or use sanitiser gel, to kill germs. As your local community pharmacy and most accessible NHS outpost, we are able to offer up to date advice; and with our Bristol Travel Clinic Service, protect your health wherever you are travelling to. Come in or call us on 0800 772 35 75.
n SUSTAINABILITY with HAMISH WILLS
Let's make it happen
T
HERE are so many climate change warnings consistently coming through – twelve years before it gets out of control, 2C warming will make severe and hot weather common in Europe, 99% of our corals will be lost, 50% of insect habit will go and goodness knows how many millions of human migrants will be looking for somewhere else to live – but we still don’t really believe them. They’re too depressing, especially in the face of so much power we feel we have no control over. Drifting along and hoping someone else will do something seems the best we can do. But we don’t have to keep on flying, driving everywhere,
doing all our food shopping in supermarkets and accept that schools are not obliged to teach our children about climate change. The campaign to reduce plastic, which didn’t come as a political initiative, has gone pretty well, so why not get other ones going? How about supply chains where it’s easy to find out how many miles stuff we buy has travelled before we buy it, and the carbon that it will have generated? Or better education and information for all of us extolling the virtues of local food, how to get it, how to get affordable insulation, the carbon cost of making our drinking water and electricity, or the best ways of obtaining the goods that do
the job we want without them having to come from China. Mobile phones could come into that. We all use them, but very few of us take too much notice that that’s where they are made, and each one has precious metals that could have been mined in China, Australia, Myanmar, India, who knows? Because we don’t know their carbon or environmental cost we don’t think twice about replacing them when they don’t work well anymore. Think what a difference it would make if we did. We would soon be demanding recycled phones with replaceable batteries, locally manufactured. We understand the dangers of the coronavirus, and we’ve had the sense to create a world wide alert to try and stop its spread. No such thing has happened for climate change, even though the
dangers, about which we have been well warned will be much more traumatic, damaging and longer lasting. Unlike with plastic though, it’s not quite so obvious, so there’s still not enough of us ready to force through the changes we urgently need that really will make a difference. BP is not showing any signs of giving up on fossil fuels and the government isn’t going to increase taxes on that polluting and harmful form of energy, so it's up to us, you and me. If we can do it over plastic, why can’t we do it with climate change? Why can’t we share our collective knowledge and skills, look at what we can achieve, and make it happen? 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
NEW HOMES COMING SOON TO ST WERBURGHS
PHASE 1 GUIDE PRICES: 3 bed coach houses from £375,000 3 bed houses from £429,950 4 bed houses from £485,000
BE PART OF A VIBRANT NEW COMMUNITY - A collection of contemporary 2, 3 & 4 bedroom homes - Open plan, flexible design with parking and outside space - Centred around the landmark Brooks Dye Works chimney - Direct access to the adjacent Mina Road Park
MARKETING SUITE LAUNCHING SPRING 2020 - REGISTER YOUR INTEREST To register your interest: Call: 0117 244 0400 Visit: acornpropertygroup.org Preliminary computer generated images for illustrative purposes only. Illustrations by Lucas Antics.
An Acorn Property Group led development in conjunction with Galliard Homes.
March, 2020
n PROPERTY
bishopstonvoice
51
£700,000 A beautifully presented and substantial double bay fronted Victorian home. The interior has been lovingly maintained and offers a modern decorative finish alongside retained period features. In brief the ground floor has floor has two separate reception rooms and a generous kitchen/diner that opens into an attractive and low maintenance split level garden. The first floor has three double bedrooms and a stylish family bathroom. Stairs rise to a half landing where a fourth bedroom is found. On from here is a large light and airy space that is currently used as bedroom five. This space has many different potential uses and also benefits from a shower room.
201 Gloucester Rd, Bristol BS7 8BG Phone: 0117 942 5855
n INSIDE OUT
T
O keep your home interiors looking fresher for longer there’s nothing like good old fashioned care and maintenance, as mundane as that sounds. Whether the grand Spring Clean fills you with dread or is a challenge you relish, a la Monica from Friends, doing it in an old fashioned way is not only more beneficial for your lungs, the quality of the air circulating your home and the wider environment, but also your own emotional wellbeing. The natural paraphernalia that comes with it is sure to prettify your cleaning cupboard interior too - think natural bristle brushes with wooden handles, pure cotton fibre cloths, enamelware and the decadent plumage of real feather dusters. If the tactile and aesthetic qualities of these materials are not enough you can extend the sensory pleasure to the nose too and enjoy aromatherapy oils while you clean. The scent of lemon is said to reduce stress and lift mood, energise and help us think more clearly. Lavender is relaxing and Tea Tree has antibacterial, antimicrobial,
anti-fungal and antiviral properties. Heck, you can even make your own natural cleaning potions with a little bit of advice from the beautifully photographed ‘Green Housekeeping’ by Christina Strutt. We may be a little germ-phobic from time to time, but the human species has survived millennia without plastic bottles of polluting chemicals and throwaway sponges. With the money you can save on oven cleaner alone (by just leaving a paste of bicarbonate of soda and a little water to do the hard work for you) a set of pure essential oils and biodegradable utensils is easily justified. If you need a hand getting the clutter out of the way first simply contact the Association of Professional Declutterers & Organisers to find a practitioner and your interiors can look and feel great forevermore. www.apdo.co.uk
with interior designer Zoe Hewett
Zoe Hewett is interior designer at Stylemongers Of Bristol studio: www.stylemongersofbristol.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
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March, 2020
n NEWS FROM FRIENDS OF REDLAND LIBRARY
T
HE Friends of Redland Library hosted “Books That Made Me An Archaeologist” on February 11. The expert panel comprised Dr Nick Corcos (Landscape Archaeologist, Avon Archaeology Limited), Professor Aidan Dodson (Department of Anthropology & Archaeology, University of Bristol), Neil Holbrook (Chief Executive, Cotswold Archaeology) and Pete Insole (Principal Historic Environment Officer, Bristol City Council). The discussion ranged from ancient Egypt up to the impact of HS2. Cotswold Archaeology is working on the HS2 project and Neil Holford described it as being an archaeological trench through the middle of England. Exciting discoveries are expected. A report of this event and a list of the books discussed can be found at: https:// FriendsOfRedlandLibrary.org.uk/recent-events The Friends of Redland Library are a voluntary group set up to support Redland Library, helping to sustain and improve its service, and also connecting it with the local and wider community. March events include Desert Island Books event on the theme of Wildlife on Thursday 12 March. A panel of experts will nominate their favourite wildlife books plus a ‘wildcard’ choice being any book that they have enjoyed and would recommend to others. In “From Page To Stage” on Thursday 26
March, a panel will discuss books and stories that have been adapted for the stage. This could be plays or musicals. Both events start at 7pm and admission is £3
(pay at the door). The panel (L-R seated): Neil Holbrook, Prof Aidan Dodson, Pete Insole and Nick Corcos
n CRICKET
Jerome Taylor joins Gloucestershire GLOUCESTERSHIRE Cricket is delighted to be able to announce that West Indies fast bowler Jerome Taylor will be joining the Club on a three-year deal. The vastly experienced international cricketer has previously played in England for Leicestershire, Sussex and most recently Somerset. For the first time in English cricket, he will be available for selection in all competitions. Gloucestershire Head Coach Richard
Dawson said: “Jerome is an exciting player who will add some pace and international experience to the bowling attack. He can
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contribute in all formats so he will be a valuable addition to the squad. “We played some very good cricket last season to get us into Division One and Jerome can help us to set a high standard in the field against some talented opposition.” Taylor will be the second West Indies fast bowler to join Gloucestershire in the last two years after Shannon Gabriel, who played in two First-class matches at the end of the 2019 season.
Graham Cook Gardener and handyman
Grass cutting, hedge and shrub trimming, weeding, planting, felling small trees, clearing, small painting jobs including garden fences and other maintenance work. Please call for a no-obligation chat
Call 0117 377 0644 or 07415 658 205
To advertise, contact Emma on 0117 9082121 or 07715 770448 or email emma@bishopstonvoice.co.uk. Got news? Email: news@bishopstonvoice.co.uk
March, 2020
bishopstonvoice
bishopstonvoice BUILDING SERVICES
53 DRAINAGE SERVICES
LOCAL SERVICES
To advertise, contact Emma on 0117 9082121 or 07715 770448 or email emma@bishopstonvoice.co.uk AERIAL SPECIALISTS
BUILDING SERVICES
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H&P Aerials Digital, Freeview and Freesat Specialists
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
• 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
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bishopstonvoice
54 ELECTRICAL SERVICES
March, 2020
FLOORING
HEALTH
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All types of domestic electrical work undertaken, from changing a light fitting to full rewires. For an efficient, friendly, reliable, local electrical service...
Based at: BCMB, Lower Ground Floor, 109 Pembroke Road, Clifton, BS8 3EU
call Oliver on 07747866436 or 01179602974
FREE Quotations www.atomelectrical.co.uk info@atomelectrical.co.uk
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March, 2020 PAINTING & DECORATING
bishopstonvoice PLUMBING
55 ROOFING
JPK PLUMBING
T M HOBBS ROOFING
Painting & Decorating Association
Phone: John Keegan 125 Bishop Rd, Bishopston, BS7 8LX
07786 513788 or 0117 907 6997
elfontanero@hotmail.co.uk www.jpkplumbingbristol.co.uk
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
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Accredited (with PDA guarantee) For a free competitive quotation: Cranside Avenue, Redland, BS6 7RA
www.carterdecorating.co.uk PLUMBING
The Bristol Plumber Bathroom & Kitchen Installation
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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
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