Bishopston Voice October 2020 by Emma Cooper

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www.bishopstonvoice.co.uk

October, 2020 Issue 93

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Glorious Gloucester Road! Goalie Betty gets Rovers call-up Betty, a sporting sixth-former at Redmaids' High School, has been called up as a goalkeeper for Bristol Rovers Women's FC. PAGE 15

Dismay at lack of action on crossing A campaign for an extra crossing on Cranbrook Road has seen a lack of action because of the lockdown. PAGE 2

Patrols urged to tackle litter louts Local traders join photographer Colin Moody to pose by the billboards at The Arches on Cheltenham Road to promote his latest book The Great Bristol High Street - Glorious Gloucester Road. The book tells the story of some of the fabulous traders that make the Gloucester Road such a vital independent street of shopkeepers. Colin, second right, is pictured with Dee Ryding and colleagues from Divine Ceremony, Sarah Barrett and partner from Roxfords pet shop and Sarah Thorp from Room 212. Report: Page 27

A councillor wants to see litter police patrol Clifton Downs amid fears the lack of enforcement has made the beauty spot a “free-for-all”. PAGE 11

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Bishopstonvoice contacts Emma Cooper Publisher

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

Sue Thomas

News Editor

07976 706120 news@bishopstonvoice.co.uk

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November deadline Our November deadline is October 14. 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 We are Bristol helpline Freephone 0800 694 0184 Mon-Fri 8.30am-5pm Weekends 10am-2pm

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

October, 2020

n NEWS

Cranbrook Rd crossing A CAMPAIGN for an extra crossing on Cranbrook Road is facing delays following lockdown. As previously reported in the Bishopston Voice, parents started campaigning for a crossing near the junction of Harcourt Hill and Cairns Road in 2016 after a primary school pupil was hit by a car and there were also several reports of near misses on the road. They collected 387 signatures through an online petition from residents in Redland and Westbury Park, after becoming concerned that the long stretch of Cranbrook Road, which many children cross on their way to school, lacks a suitable safe crossing point mid-way. The group of parents, known as the Cranbrook Community Crossing Group, also asked local councillors Martin Fodor and Fi Hance to get involved in their campaign. Clare Freshwater-Turner is one of the parents who helped initiate the campaign. She promoted it at the Neighbourhood Partnership Community Fair in September 2016, and also presented it at a council meeting in November 2016. In 2019, Bristol City Council’s councillor for transport, Kye Dudd came to look at the site. At an area committee meeting Martin Fodor and Fi Hance managed to secure funding in principle of up to £31k towards a crossing. In October 2019 a highways office from Bristol City Council visited the road and met with the campaign group to give

a rough idea of which solutions may work, however since then progress has stalled due to lockdown. Commenting on the delays, Clare said: “Schools have gone back and yet we are no closer to making the crossing at Cranbrook Road safer. Yes we have been promised funds but with Covid it seems that progress has stalled. “However, in the meantime the route to school for some children will have changed this term due to Covid. Redland Green School has (for valid Covid safety reasons) closed the Kersteman Road side entrance to KS3 and KS4 pupils and this means we are seeing an increase in pupils crossing at our junction. The school has been very supportive about our plans, and have said that they are also going to send some emails to the Council on our behalf. “I have written to Marvin again, and I just feel like it is an accident waiting to happen. The whole community feels a bit let down, and people say that even as an adult the road is hard to cross, let alone as a child. “I have been asked if I will attend the Full Council meeting in November to discuss things further, and it feels like quite a lot of effort just to keep our children safe. How many years do we need to wait though? How long is it going to take to sort this out? “I am very concerned about this and find it hard to understand that the council are not taking this safety issue more seriously.”

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.

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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October, 2020

campaign faces delays Councillors Martin Fodor and Fi Hance also added: “We are disappointed at the lack of progress with the Cranbrook Road crossing at Cairns Rd. After the success of allocating local funds to support residents pressing for a safe crossing used by school children there were high hopes a crossing project would be developed where there are speeding vehicles and a daily dash across the wide road. We were then shocked to hear that over half the team members working on such highway schemes were vacant. And the emergency Covid travel projects around the city that were funded at very short notice pushed local projects further back in the queue. We’ve been pressing for news and action since then. “There’s no date yet for recruitment to the team but we’ve been pressing for funded safety projects like the crossing to be picked up. The start of

the new school year means the school is also worried about more children at risk while walking to school. We’re working with residents to find out when there will be designs, how these will get consulted, and when something will actually be built.” The Cranbrook Community Crossing Group would like to hear about the experience of people who cross the road to go to and from schools, play groups and church. To get in touch, email: safecrossingcranbrookroad@ gmail.com Above right: Parents and children at the start of the campaign in 2016. Some of these children, having moved on from primary to secondary school, will be taking a different route to walk to school in 2020, but still have to cross the same dangerous road

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October, 2020

n NEWS

Police finish Colston statue investigation AN investigation into the criminal damage caused to a statue of Edward Colston in Bristol has concluded. The statue was pulled from its plinth and rolled into Bristol harbour on Sunday, 7 June during a Black Lives Matter demonstration. It was later recovered from the water by Bristol City Council and assessed to have £3,750 worth of damage. A 25-year-old man was subsequently arrested while seven men and a woman were asked to attend a police station for a voluntary interview. Following a review of the evidence, detectives will now approach the Crown Prosecution Service for a charging decision

against four people – three men, aged 32, 25 and 21, and a 29-year-old woman. The remaining five people – men aged 18, 20, 29, 33 and 47 – have been identified as suitable for an out of court disposal and we have written to them to offer a conditional caution for the offence of causing criminal damage to property valued under £5,000. Those offered the conditional caution have been given a week to decide whether they want to accept it. Should any of them choose not to accept, officers will approach the CPS to seek a charging decision to be made. The conditions of the caution are: To complete a questionnaire from the History Commission set up by Bristol City

Closure order for Lockleaze address after reports of antisocial behaviour A CLOSURE order has been granted against a property in Lockleaze to prevent further incidents of antisocial behaviour. Bristol Magistrates Court approved the order on Wednesday 26 August, which will last up to three months, following reports of nuisance at the address in the Flaxman Close area. Issues, including drug-related activity, have been reported to police over the summer and the local beat team attended the property several times, met with local residents and partnering authorities to bring about a resolution. Extra foot patrols have been carried out in the area to try to improve the situation. PCSO Cherie Broadfield said: "People living nearby spoke about finding drug paraphernalia in the vicinity of the address and said a lot of people would come and go from the property all hours of the day and night often causing disturbances in the street resulting in the police attending. "This made life for residents particularly unpleasant and understandably they wanted the issue tackled and so we're pleased the court has granted this closure order. "Acts like this are made possible by the community coming forward and telling us of the issues they are unfairly facing. We're grateful that the residents of Lockleaze have placed their faith in us and hope the steps taken make their neighbourhood a safer and more enjoyable place to live." If you are experiencing ongoing antisocial behaviour in your area, report it online at www.avonandsomerset.police.uk/report/ anti-social-behaviour or on 101.

bishopstonvoice 75

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Avon and Somerset Police are investigating incidences of criminal damage to parked vehicles in the Cotham area of Bristol which happened at around 4.15pm on Monday 7 September. A man was witnessed by a member of the public on Cotham Hill stabbing car tyres with hypodermic needles. Several needles were also left scattered in the road. Officers attended and found needles sticking out of the side walls of the tyres on three separate vehicles which were safely removed and disposed of. Further needles and caps were collected from the road. No-one was harmed in the incident. The offender is described as a white man in his 30s with a slim build and dark hair in dreadlocks. He was wearing a light coloured hoodie and tracksuit bottoms. Sgt Stuart King said: “We’d like to reassure the public that incidences of this nature are rare. The area will be searched for further discarded needles by Bristol City Council Sex and Drug litter collectors. “If you find any such litter, please report this to the council. “We would also encourage motorists in the area to be vigilant and to check their car tyres for damage. If you find any damage of a similar nature, please contact police on 101. Do not attempt to remove a needle yourself.” If you saw anything, get in touch with us on 101, quoting reference 5220203131.

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2019 Issue February,

Council, in which they can set out their reasons for their actions, as well as their concerns and thoughts going forward. To pay a fine of £100 which will be collected by HMCTS and sent to Nilaari, a Bristol based charity supporting BAME communities. This is the maximum fine which can be issued as part of a conditional caution for this particular offence. To take part in two hours of environmental improvement works arranged and supervised by Bristol City Council. This may include, but not limited to, painting or the removal of rubbish/ graffiti.

School's fence: es row continu to

attempt Cotham School'sLodge Playing fence off Stoke halted by Fields has been protesters. PAGE 7

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October, 2020

bishopstonvoice

n NEWS

Inquiries continue after race-fuelled attack on NHS worker outside hospital STARK images of damage to a car are being issued by Avon and Somerset Police in a further appeal for information two months after it knocked an NHS worker down in Bristol. The 21-year-old victim, known as K, was walking home from work when he was hit by a dark blue Honda Accord in Monks Park Avenue, Horfield, at about 4.30pm on Wednesday 22 July. The occupants of the car shouted racist abuse at him before running off. K is still slowly recovering from serious facial injuries and a broken leg. Four men have been arrested in connection with what's being treated as a racially-aggravated attempted murder. Detective Inspector Danielle Underwood: "You can see from the impact damage to the car and the wall how K came by such significant injuries. "We're grateful to everyone who has contacted us following our earlier appeals. While we have made arrests we do still need to hear from anyone who saw the

occupants of the blue car or knows who was driving it." The case featured on the BBC's Crimewatch Roadshow in September and the investigation team have previously issued CCTV footage of the suspect vehicle. There's also a ÂŁ5,000 reward for information given to the Crimestoppers charity which leads to

the conviction of those responsible. If you have information which could help call 101 quoting reference 5220163308. Alternatively contact Crimestoppers by calling 0800 555 111 or through their anonymous online form. They're an independent charity and never tell the police who you are, only what you know.

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October, 2020

n ADVERTISING FEATURE

Clinical Director, James Scrimshaw

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BST is a German technology that is relatively unknown in the UK. It is a therapeutic adaptation of MRI, but instead of forming an image, it stimulates a significant repair response in damaged tissue and joints. There is a large body of evidence to support this and there are over 200 clinics in Germany almost exclusively run by Orthopaedic surgeons. While there is no large-scale UK-based research as yet, it’s only a matter of time before trials begin. The impressive results we’re seeing are hard to ignore and clinicians at the highest level are taking notice, with the number of MBST clinics in the UK more than doubling in the last nine months, and several more in the pipeline. One thing we do know is that’s it’s a completely risk-free and painfree therapy. ‘I’ve been hugely impressed by the significant improvement in symptoms by my patients I have referred to CURA Clinical. The MBST technology is widely used in Europe with proven clinical benefit. Furthermore, this is a group of patients who up till now have few other effective options. I recommend it highly’ Jonathan Webb MB ChB FRCS (Orth) Consultant Knee Surgeon

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‘When James suggested that I try MBST for my back pain due to degenerative discs, I decided to give it a go. It was a really easy experience and quite mindful just lying down for each of the seven sessions. It also worked!! I do feel it could be a game changer for the NHS if its value is recognised.’ Dr Tim Mitchell MB MRC GP DRCOG DPD GP Bristol MBST is a therapy that offers a viable option to patients for which hands-on treatment has provided limited help, but who continue to live with pain. It's worth considering MBST if you're not ready for surgery or really don’t want to go down that path unless absolutely necessary. For further information or for booking enquiries please call: 0117 959 6531. Email: info@curaclinical.com.

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

bishopstonvoice

October, 2020

n NEWS

Eat Out to Help Out - we certainly did! DINERS in Bishopston, Redland, Cotham and St Andrews rose to the challenge of the Government’s incentive scheme to persuade us to Eat Out to Help Out in August. Lunchtime and evening meals saw an uptake as many people took advantage of discounts of up to 50% off on bills when visiting participating restaurants, pubs and cafes. New statistics reveal that a total of 549,000 meals were claimed in Bristol under the government’s Eat Out to Help Out scheme. According to HM Treasury, during August more than 100

million meals were claimed across the UK under the scheme, with a total of 84,700 eateries signing up. In addition, 130,000 claims have been made from eateries so far, totally £522 million. In Bristol, 530 restaurants and cafes took part, and over £2.4million was claimed in discounts. Bristol West was also the top constituency in the South

West for restaurants registered (371), meals claimed (290,000) and discounts claimed which were just shy of £1.5million. In addition, the average saving per meal was £5.17. So many people eating out gave a major boost to the many eateries which line the Gloucester Road, Cheltenham Road and Chandos Road areas. In Bristol North West, 57 establishments took part, with 185,000 meals claimed totalling discounts of £641,000 and an average discount per meal of £3.47. On average, each registered restaurant in Bristol claimed 1,036 discounted meals – 80 a day for the 13 eligible days. In the Bishopston Voice area, the Cider Press on Gloucester Road was one of the establishments that took part in the scheme. A spokesman said: “The Government Eat Out to Help Out scheme in August was very successful, so much so that we continued it into September. It has been a great incentive for our customers to come back. Monday to Wednesday is definitely the new Friday night at the moment. “We are committed to providing the best possible customer experience and this is just one of many initiatives and campaigns that will be rolled out across Stonegate Pub Company in the coming weeks and months to benefit our customers.” The scheme was designed to support the hospitality industry after a challenging few months

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20% to 5%, until 12 January 2021. The Chancellor said: “From the get-go our mission has been to protect jobs, and to do this we needed to be creative, brave and try things that no government has ever done before. “I want to thank everyone, from restaurant owners to waiters, chefs and diners, for embracing it and helping drive our economic recovery. “The scheme is just one part of our Plan for Jobs and we will continue to protect, support and create jobs to ensure we come back stronger as a nation.”

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bishopstonvoice

n NEWS FROM OUR MP ways. If they are lost, We need music inoursocitymany will lose a big part of its personality. Through these meetings we and art more discussed Bristol-wide problems and ideas which could help, than ever which I put to the government. RIGHT now, we need music, art and culture more than ever. In a time with so much uncertainty, Bristol’s natural creativity will be essential for imagining the future beyond the pandemic. Unfortunately, Bristol’s creative and sociable side is threatened by current health restrictions – so I spent a lot of time over the summer working with many of Bristol’s arts venues, concert spaces, festival organisers and artists. In a series of public events, we discussed how these people and organisations can be supported so Bristol’s cultural life can return to its energetic and creative former self, as soon as it is safe. But the venues and organisations need support. These companies and organisations have been built up over decades. They enrich us

The Culture Secretary did eventually announce funding to help many arts organisations, but there were still many smaller organisations left out – so I will continue to make a case for more comprehensive support. Everything may seem gloomy at the moment, but I have also received some positive news. By the time you read this, you may have heard that the Colston Hall is changing its name (although I cannot disclose this secret information at the time of writing!). This sends an important signal – that everyone is welcome, no matter the colour of their skin, and our city will not continue to celebrate people who have become rich through oppression and exploitation.

October, 2020

What is the government for, if not to uphold the law?

Thangam Debbonaire column

MANY of you have written to me about the latest episode in the government’s appalling handling of Brexit. You are disappointed and shocked that a government would intentionally break international law and rip up the Withdrawal Agreement treaty, just a few months after signing it. At a time when the UK is supposed to be earning the trust of other countries and making trade deals, this is particularly worrying. The Prime Minister seems surprised about the problems with his deal, which was supposed to ‘Get Brexit done’. We tried

to warn him last year – but he illegally shut down parliament to prevent us from debating it. He needs to take responsibility for his mess. I know many business owners in Bishopston and the rest of Bristol are worrying about the end of the Transition Period at the end of the year. I am taking these concerns forward with my colleagues in the Shadow Cabinet. The last thing we need now is another, completely avoidable, disaster.

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AMD Solicitors WHILE most of us support a number of charities in our lifetime, it is perhaps not surprising that a smaller number choose to remember a charity in their Will. Clearly the priority for most is to provide for a surviving spouse or children, or to ensure that the family wealth can be passed on to beneﬁt the next generation. However, government policy is clearly to encourage giving to charity, and a recent development in the law is intended to promote gifts to charity being made by Will. This change may also, on occasion, serve to save Inheritance Tax, or even to create a gift which literally pays for itself.

bishopstonvoice

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it may be possible to take advantage of this tax break. If the beneﬁciaries of the estate agree, it is possible to effectively amend the terms of a Will within two years of the date of death. A ‘Deed of Variation’ can be drawn up which sets out the family members’ agreed arrangements

the beneﬁciaries, in order to calculate whether the 10 % test has been met. Taking specialist advice on the implications for your particular circumstances is therefore essential.

Bristol branch of the Alzheimer’s Society, the local branch of this national charity which works to improve the quality of life of people affected by dementia in Great Britain. For full details of our fundraising activities visit our website www.amdsolicitors.com. Copyright AMD Solicitors

October, 2020

AMD’s team of experienced private client solicitors and practitioners includes full

Fundamental changes to Use classes ON 30 June 2020, the government announced plans to “radically reform” the planning system, allowing more types of commercial premises to E: news@bishopstonvoice.co.uk July, repurpose. 2014 On 1 September 2020 The Town and Country Planning (Use Classes) (Amendment) (England) Regulations 2020 (‘2020 Regulations’) came into force. Significantly, the Regulations:

Reduced rate of

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Inheritance Tax • Class A2 (Financial and professional services). Where somebody dies after 6 • Class A3 (Restaurants and cafes). April 2012 the rate of Inheritance Tax applied to the estate can be • Class B1 (Business). If planning for inheritance tax is right for you our reduced from 40 % to 36 % (in follow us onnon-residential Twitter @bishopstonvoice Class F.1 (Learning other words by 10and %), provided experienced specialist solicitors can help at least 10 % of the estate institutions) and that Class F.2 (Local community) will passes to charity. replace Class D1 (Non-residential institutions) and Clearly it is not possible to determine in advance exactly Telephone 0117 9621205 Class D2 (Assembly and leisure). what value the assets you leave

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by Will will have on your death for Inheritance Tax purposes,

The gift that pays for itself 1 revokes Parts A and D of the Schedule to the Town and Country Planning (Use Classes) Order 1987 in relation to England (subject to transitional and savings provisions) (regulation 2).

New sui generis oruses what 10 % of the total value

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The following uses are confirmed as being sui generis (in a class of their own): • A public house, wine bar or drinking establishment (currently Class A4). • A drinking establishment with expanded food Part A contained use classes A1 to A5 which will be. However a Will can be for the distribution of the estate, provision (currently mixed use of Classmembers A4 withof the Society of Trust includes uses commonly found on thethat high worded to provide a gift of and the estate can then be and Estate Practitioners, the Class A3). street including shops, cafes and takeaways. 10 % of the value of your estate divided as if the Will had been leading professional body in • A hot made food takeaway for theAsale ofofhot food Part D contained useat classes whichto are that timeD1 is given a charity in these terms. Deed this where field. We offer a free initial or charities your choice. Variationof could provideundertaken consultation thattherefore food is mostly off for new clients. Non-residential institutions andofD2 which is Theconsumption that 10 % of the estate to pass (currently Classis A5). For advice on administration Assembly and leisure.effect of this will be that the ratethe premises of Inheritance Tax payable on the to a chosen charity or charities, of estates, trusts, wills, powers • A venue for live music performance. estate is reduced from 40 making the estate as a whole of attorney and all private client 2 inserts three new usewhole classes: • A cinema (currently Class D2). % to 36 %. eligible for the reduced rate of issues, contactflexibility Shelley Faulkner, Class E which is commercial, business and help high streets and town centres to hall (currently Class D2). In same circumstances, it • A concert Inheritance Tax. Florence Pearce and the other and service adapt to the ever-changing needs of the consumers has been calculated that this • A bingo hall (currently Class D2). members of the team on 0117 This change in the law is Class F.1 which is learning and nonreduction in the tax bill can serve businesses. • A dance hall very (currently Classboth D2). 9621205, emailand probate@ clearly good news to leave the estate, even after residential institutions Developers will no longer need to apply for or call in Generally, sui generis uses cannot beamdsolicitors.com changed for charities, and potentially for of the gift to charity, at 15 The Mall planning Clifton, or 100 Class F.2 which ispayment local community. permission for a change of use that fall as well. However otherestates use (including any other sui generis with a value as high as if the to any some Henleaze Roadwithin Henleaze. By Shelley the detail of theplanning application can the now wider categories under these use express permission. giftsui had not been made. 3 confirms more uses as generis (which areThususe) without benew complex. For example, thecovering uses AMDas Solicitors takes pride in classes. the gift can in some cases quite The Class E is important, Faulkner, uses in a class of their own). estate is divided into different sponsoring local, Bristol literally pay for itself. Janinebased Harris is the Head of the Commercial wide reaching as nurseries, offices, services ‘components’ depending on financial charities and this year is very solicitor with Property at AMD Solicitors. For further advice a Will has not retail, food, Any building or land which isEven usedwhere for one of the gyms, healthcare, If be supporting the how the property will passand to light industry. pleased to been2020 prepared in treated these terms,there isthe and classes on 31 August will be beneficiaries, order the to same use Bristol branch theassistance Alzheimer’son Commercial Property matters, a change of usein within class, it of AMDfollowing Solicitors it may be possible to take calculate whetherathe 10 % test and Society, the local branch this hesitate to contact Janine Harris please doof not on or after 1 September 2020 as falling within new be considered development will not advantage of this tax break. Ifwill nothas been met. Taking specialist national charityat janineharris@amdsolicitors.com or which works by telephone Class E: planning permission. the beneficiaries of the estaterequireadvice on the implications for to improve the on quality of life of 5647. WHILE •most us(Shops). support (0117) 973 ClassofA1 changescircumstances are expected increase agree, it is possible to effectively These your particular is to people affected by dementia in

How leaving money to charity can save you Inheritance Tax

a number of charities in our amend the terms of a Will within therefore essential. lifetime, it is perhaps not two years of the date of death. A surprising that a smaller number AMD’s team of experienced ‘Deed of Variation’ can be drawn choose to remember a charity in 100 Henleaze Road, up which sets Henleaze out the familyBS9 4JZprivate client solicitors and their Will. Clearly the priority for practitioners includes full 15 The Mall, Clifton BS8 4DS members’ agreed arrangements most is to provide for a surviving spouse or children, or to ensure that the family wealth can be passed on to beneﬁt the next generation. However, government policy is clearly to encourage giving to charity, and a recent development in the law is intended to promote gifts to charity being made by Will. This change may also, on occasion, serve to save Inheritance Tax, or even to create a gift which literally pays for itself.

Great Britain. For full details of our fundraising activities visit our website www.amdsolicitors.com. 139 Whiteladies Road, Clifton BS8 2PL Copyright AMD Solicitors 2 Station Road, Shirehampton BS11 9TT

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

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October, 2020

n NEWS A COUNCILLOR is demanding litter police patrol Clifton Downs amid fears the lack of enforcement has made the beauty spot a “free-for-all”. Conservative Cllr for Westbury-on-Trym and Henleaze, Steve Smith says problems including parking are going unchecked, which he blames for causing the huge carmeet a fortnight ago. More than 300 motor enthusiasts attended the unauthorised event on Sunday, August 23, and residents called police about drivers wheeling their cars around, revving engines, speeding down local roads and playing loud music. Vehicles damaged the fields and many were parked on the grass alongside Ladies Mile. In a written question to mayor Marvin Rees at Bristol City Council members’ forum, Cllr Smith said: “The recent carmeet on the Downs illustrates perfectly what happens when the Downs bylaws are not enforced. “If the little things like barbecues, littering and parking are allowed to continue unchecked, it gives the impression that the Downs are a free-for-all, and potentially dangerous events like this are the result.” He said at the remote meeting on Tuesday, September 8: “Enforcement should absolutely be a last resort and not a first option – speak softly and carry a big stick. “The difficulty on the Downs in particular, though, is that there is no enforcement at the moment.

Call for Downs litter police

“There is no means of enforcement, there is nobody to enforce the Downs bylaws and so we’re just speaking softly which in some cases isn’t enough.” Cllr Smith asked Bristol’s mayor if existing council enforcement officers elsewhere in the city could patrol the Downs. Mr Rees replied: “We will always talk with the Downs committee about how we can work with them most effectively to manage that public space. “We do need to rely on some good old British commonsense at the same time as going around trying to shape individual behavior through us telling people what to do. “It breaks my heart when you walk past and someone has left all their litter there – their sandwich wrappers and cigarette

butts – what is going through people’s minds? “We can do a bit more public education.” He told Cllr Smith: “You would be welcome to have the conversation with us. “Our enforcement is stretched phenomenally in the authority,

across litter, across housing services as well. “People protest for frontline services but there are less glamorous aspects of what we should be doing that people don’t protest to protect, such as enforcement teams, and yet they are vital to us managing the city. “It’s a stretch but we will talk to the committee and I’m more than happy to talk to you to support that public space and ensure it’s as good a quality public space as possible for all Bristolians.” Littering, including dropping cigarette butts and chewing gum, on Bristol’s streets carries a £100 spot fine, which reduces to £65 if paid within two weeks, although non-payment can lead to an appearance before magistrates and a criminal record. The council contracts enforcement firm 3GS. By Adam Postans, Local Democracy Reporting Service

Domestic abuse is a concern for everyone PREVENTION and recovery for domestic abuse victims was the focus of a recent Bristol City Council Mayoral Commission workshop co-chaired by PCC Sue Mountstevens and Senior Public Health Practitioner Sue Moss. The workshop, attended by partners including probation, local charities and police, is part of a series of discussions organised by Bristol City Council to address the support needed for domestic and sexual abuse victims and survivors across the city. PCC Sue Mountstevens said: “The key thought I took away from this workshop was we all have a responsibility for domestic abuse. “We were also in agreement that an approach needs to include working with perpetrators to prevent further abuse from taking place, as well as ensuring every day services that are used by local people are aware how to deal with possible disclosures and can recognise the signs of abuse.” For more information about victim support services in Avon and Somerset, visit: https://www.thisisnotanexcuse.org/

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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October, 2020

n NEWS

Photography exhibition puts synchro swimmers in focus

ROOM 212 has used Lockdown productively to have a clear out and create a new gallery space on Gloucester Road. This gives an opportunity to explore different themes and showcase guest artists. Eva Watkins has just graduated from the University of the West of England achieving a First Class BA(Hons) in Photography. She specialises in analogue portrait and documentary photography, seeking to demonstrate the relationship between her subject and their surroundings. Her main inspiration has come from groups of people who pursue a more different approach to life, working collaboratively with them, and building a relationship. Her work in the UWE graduation show at Alchemy 198 really stood out to owner club-yearbook-2020-awardSarah Thorp, so when she saw winner she invited her to that Eva had won an award show the images in a one off for her recent photo series of exhibition at Room 212, from Bristol synchronised swimmers October 10 - 23. Sarah knows https://shutterhub.org.uk/ members of the swimming announcement-the-newspaperWinter Bishopton Voice ad.qxp_Layout 1 18/09/2020 12:41 Page 1

group at Henleaze Lake so she believes the exhibition will be a fun and inspiring show for the community. The photos will be shown as large format A1. The unique synchronised

A HAPPY RETIREMENT IS JUST ROUND THE CORNER

swimming group initially formed to celebrate the 100th year anniversary of Henleaze Swimming Lake, Bristol. Consisting of 80 people aged between 11-76, and of mixed genders, who were once strangers. Over time this group has created a space where strong friendships have formed, enabling them to share significant life moments with one another. The team had plans to perform at Cheltenham Lido March 2020 after their very successful performance at Henleaze Lake. Due to Covid-19, they were unable to continue with the event plans. The team is still determined to perform when times are different.

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October, 2020

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n NEWS

Local businesses selected for Small Biz 100 REDLAND and Clifton businesses, Chandos Atelier, Wild Oats and SoleLutions will be given a spell in the limelight as part of this year’s Small Biz 100, a national campaign highlighting some of the UK’s most inspiring small businesses. Small Business Saturday UK is a campaign which celebrates small business success and encourages consumers to 'shop local' and to support businesses in their communities. Marking 100 days building up to Small Business Saturday on 5 December 2020, the Small Biz 100 provides a major profile boost to small businesses across the UK. Showcasing a daily celebration of the Small Biz 100 through social media, the campaign aims to support and celebrate a vibrant range of small, community driven businesses across the UK. Organic wholefood specialists Wild Oats on Lower Redland Road are featured on the Small Biz 100 on October 8. Family run shoe specialists SoleLutions are highlighted on October 4. Chandos Atelier, started in 2017 by Bristolian Emma Wreyford, offers artistic freedom and develops resilience through

creativity in after-school clubs, bespoke parties and family crafternoon packs. They will be placed in the spotlight on Saturday 7 November, with the culmination of an exciting community art project (for details on how to get involved follow Chandos Atelier social media). Emma Wreyford from Chandos Atelier said: “What an honour to be in such great company, and in such a difficult year. The backbone of our business is in schools, and we won’t be going back for a while, so we’ve been creating art in our neighbourhood with local children, sending out Art Club Takeaways, and making How-To videos to keep the creativity flowing.

“It means so much to’ve be selected from so many applicants, small local businesses have worked so hard during lockdown, there couldn’t be a better time to champion them we’re thrilled to be included.” Michelle Ovens MBE, Director of Small Business Saturday UK, said: “Congratulations to Chandos Atelier for joining the Small Biz 100! This campaign highlights the amazing, positive impact small firms have on communities across the UK. Given the phenomenally tough time small businesses have had, and the special role they played supporting communities in lockdown, it’s vital we continue to support them as this crisis continues. This year’s Small Business Saturday is going to be the most important one yet, and we’re determined it will also be the best.” Now in its eighth year in the UK, Small Business Saturday has grown significantly each year, with a record turnout of 17.6 million people choosing to shop small on the day last year, generating an estimated £800m. To find out more about Small Business Saturday see: https:// smallbusinesssaturdayuk.com

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bishopstonvoice

October, 2020

n EDUCATION PLANS to spend nearly £30m on improving "neglected" special schools in Bristol have been approved by Bristol City Council. The proposals will see the current schools upgraded and more places made available for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). Bristol City Council backed the improvement plans, subject to a consultation in the autumn, at a cabinet meeting on September 1. The £28.7million proposals include major redevelopments at Elmfield School for Deaf Children and Claremont Special School, as well as the addition of special school places at a number of mainstream schools across the city. The plans also include a new independent living centre for young adults in Ashley Down. The proposals follow a commitment by Bristol City Council to look at special school provision last July, and years of frustration and anger among parents of SEND children let down by the system. A report from Ofsted and the Care Quality Commission last December said children with SEND in Bristol had been failing for years. In 2018, the council was forced to restore £5million to its SEND budget after it lost a High Court case against parents who challenged the administration’s decision to cut the funding. A report that went before cabinet on September 1 admits that, right now, the council does not have enough special school places for 190 children in Bristol who are entitled to councilfunded specialist education provision, and another 250 are

Spending boost approved for special-needs children

likely to join the queue for a place in the next 12 months. The proposals would see 250 new special school places added across 11 schools, create 54 extra places at Elmfield School for Deaf Children and add eight at Claremont Special School. But no new places will be ready for at least a year, according to the cabinet report, which says the 250 new places “might” be ready by September 2021. The new facilities at Elmfield – requiring the demolition of the school and the redevelopment of the Bristol Education Centre – “may” be finished by September 2022, the report says. The demolition, refurbishment and building

works needed to create the new Claremont School facilities “may” be completed by September 2024. Bristol parent Jen Smith, who has two children with SEND and has been a long-time campaigner for better services, said that the situation is the result of “institutional disability discrimination on a huge scale” and means “we have to write off another generation of children”. Cabinet member for schools, Cllr Anna Keen, said the council has “dramatically” improved its turnaround of EHC plans and its plan to increase special school places was the “right thing to do”. Opposition councillor Tim Kent, who also has a child with

SEND, said the administration had failed to heed the warnings of parents and councillors. In February, Bristol mum Sally Kent, from Bristol Independent SEND Community, told the council its failure to provide adequate SEND services had provoked a looming “emergency” in special school provision. Extensive delays in producing education, health and care (EHC) plans had resulted in a large backlog of assessments that, once cleared, would mean there were many more children entitled to a special school place than existed, she said. Cabinet will be asked to approve £15.6million of council funding towards the project. The remaining £13.1million needed is yet to be found. The council hopes to recoup part of the cost by selling the land at Elmfield when the school is demolished and through savings as a result of no longer having to pay to maintain the old facilities at Elmfield and Claremont. By providing special school places in Bristol, the project will also save the council the expense of sending children to special schools outside the local authority area. A consultation is due to take place in the autumn. By Amanda Cameron, Local Democracy Reporting Service

North Bristol Art Trail is going virtual THE North Bristol Art Trail will be taking place both virtually and as a walking trail. However, many artists aren’t set up under current restrictions/ guidelines to open up their homes so this year North Bristol Artists are asking Gloucester Road shops, cafes and bars to take part by offering window and wall space during the trail. This will offer a safe environment for trail goers to browse work by artists while at the same time encouraging people to use their local businesses. It will also help to brighten up Gloucester Road as the evenings draw in. If traders would like to take part can they contact Hemali Modha hemalimodha@icloud.com or Sarah Thorp at Room 212. The trail takes place over the weekend of Nov 28 - 29.

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

bishopstonvoice

October, 2020

n EDUCATION

Redmaids’ student Betty gets Rovers call-up REDMAIDS’ High students have handled the challenges of this year incredibly well, often using their extra time at home to do remarkable things. Some have volunteered in their local communities, others have tried their hand at new hobbies and some, like Year 13 student Betty, have continued to pursue existing passions in new and unfamiliar circumstances. Betty, a member of the senior hockey team at Redmaids’, has been selected to play for the Bristol Rovers Women’s FC squad, after attending an open training session earlier this summer. Betty’s interest in football began when she started playing for Westbury Park Foxes aged five. She played for the local team throughout secondary school, and more recently had her first taste of adult football, playing a season for Bristol Ladies Union FC. Speaking on her recent call-up to Bristol Rovers, Betty said: “I went along to one of their open sessions and after a couple more weeks of attending training sessions, I was asked if I would like to join the team for the coming season - to which of course I answered yes! The coaches and girls have been so welcoming and I really feel like part of the team.”

Despite lockdown restrictions, Betty managed to keep active and get her football fix from home. “Sport helped me immensely during lockdown. Especially at the beginning, it felt like all structure had been taken out my day, but going out on walks, runs, and practising football skills in the garden provided a sense of routine and definitely helped my mood.”

Encouraging more girls and young women to get involved in sport is important to Betty and is something that is ingrained in the curriculum at Redmaids’ High. “Not only does sport help to promote a healthy lifestyle, but it is also a great way to socialize and bring people from all areas and backgrounds together,” said Betty. “I have made so many friends from all parts of Bristol, and beyond, through playing football and it’s increasingly easy for girls and women to get involved.” Claire Maggs, Director of Sport at Redmaids’ High School, said: “Huge congratulations to Betty on her footballing achievement. She is one of the best goalkeepers we have seen at Redmaids’ High School. It is fantastic to see that all her effort, determination and hard work has paid off.” Looking to the year ahead, Betty was set to play her first Bristol Rovers game on 6 September and returned to school to continue her A Level studies in Art, Biology and Geography. “School has done a really good job of keeping us all connected online during lockdown, but I’m looking forward to being physically in the school building and seeing friends in person,” she said.

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bishopstonvoice

October, 2020

n EDUCATION

Work under way on Trinity Academy’s £25million new school building THE permanent home for Bristol’s newest secondary school, Trinity Academy, is well underway. Significant progress has been made on the site and the steel frame and main structure is now in place. The secondary school opened in September 2019 in temporary accommodation on the Stoke Park Primary School site in Lockleaze with a full cohort of 120 students in its first year. The school is being built to meet the urgent need for secondary school places in north Bristol and is full again and has a waiting list for this September, with numbers increasing to 180 students from September 2021. The school will continue to grow year-on-year with an eventual capacity of 1,220 students – 180 students per year group as well

as a sixth form provision. Headteacher Eiron Bailey said “Our mission at Trinity Academy is to create a world class school where every member of our

community seeks to become the best version of themselves. “We believe our purpose is to educate the whole child which we articulate with three foci - Head:

a place of learning, Heart: a place of care and respect and Soul: a place of engaging. “We’re thrilled that we have been heavily oversubscribed in our first two years of opening and have attracted outstanding leaders, teachers and support staff. The next big step for us is to occupy this beautiful building, custom made to help us achieve our vision.” Trinity Academy is a specialist state school in music and the performing arts. The school has been ambitious in the design phase to ensure that the site includes a performing arts centre with a large concert hall providing room to seat up to 570 people. There is an adjoining atrium space, drama and dance studios, an outside amphitheatre area, extensive music classrooms and smaller music practice

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bishopstonvoice

October, 2020

£1.1m boost for City of Bristol College A design image of the concert hall seating 570 people, one of the performing arts spaces that Trinity Academy aims to build rooms. In addition, the site includes a 3G sports pitch, indoor sports hall and a multiuse games area. Once completed the school wants the site to be used by local and national arts organisations, orchestras and ensembles and is very interested in working with local groups to become a venue

of choice in the city. Further information on the designs for the school and on the fundraising campaign to raise £350,000 to equip the performing arts centre to a professional standard is available on the school website at: www.trinityacademybristol. org/about-us/the-build/supportthe-performance-space/

CITY of Bristol College will receive a funding boost of £1.1 million to upgrade the buildings of its further education facilities. More than 180 colleges will receive a share of £200 million to begin immediate work from this September to repair and refurbish buildings and campuses. The cash boost forms part of a major £1.5bn investment that is scheduled for colleges over the next five years so they continue to be great places to learn for the local communities they serve. This initial investment is being fast-tracked so colleges can kickstart work this year and students and staff will benefit a least a year earlier than originally planned. Principal and Chief Executive of City of Bristol College, Andy Forbes, said: “City of Bristol College has been awarded an extra £1.1m funding to make improvements to our campuses. This is part of the £200m funding package for FE Colleges across England announced by Prime Minister Boris Johnson in June. “We welcome this much needed extra investment, which will enable us to modernise our labs and workshops, improve our buildings and make the college an even better place to study.”

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bishopstonvoice

October, 2020

n EDUCATION

FHS wins carbon reduction competition A LEADING school in Horfield has been crowned as the winner of a Carbon Reduction competition against other schools from around the UK. The Schools Carbon Challenge 2020 was created by Powerful Allies Ltd a longstanding Energy Partner for Schools and Businesses, which specialises in 100% Renewable energy procurement, monitoring and carbon reduction. The competition was designed to help schools reduce Energy Consumption, Cost and Carbon emissions by making cultural changes, adapting equipment and infrastructure, and setting up energy monitoring portals. Fairfield High School (FHS), part of the Excalibur Academies Trust, was delighted to find out that they have reduced their Carbon Consumption by nearly 36% in the space of only 12 months, making them the Winner of the £2,020 prize and a unique Glass Trophy.

Tamsin Whinton, Energy Manager at Powerful Allies says: “It’s no secret that a huge part of a school’s budget goes on keeping the buildings heated and energised. Although this is a necessary commodity, we should be aware of the environmental impact of our usage and take responsibility for reducing it where possible. We wanted to give the schools the tools they needed so that they have the

power themselves to make an ongoing and long-lasting change towards a greener future, whilst also helping their budgets. “We’ve been delighted with the result of the 2020 competition and are now introducing an ongoing Schools Carbon Challenge initiative for our school clients going forward, using some exciting new carbon monitoring technology.” Staff and students were

encouraged to play their part, with some schools dedicating their existing environmental groups or setting up new groups to help the cause. Rachel Lacey, Finance and Premises Manager at FHS says: “We are delighted to have been given this prestigious award. We converted our whole school to LED lighting in 2019 which has undoubtedly been a large contributing factor. Our active eco team are especially thrilled to see the impact that this, in conjunction with their initiatives and proactivity, have had.” The Glass Trophy is to be proudly displayed in the school’s reception and the cash prize will go towards other green initiatives, in conjunction with its eco team. The runners up, including two other Schools from the Excalibur Academies Trust, will receive their own Award and a cash prize of £2,020 for their efforts.

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October, 2020

bishopstonvoice

n EDUCATION

A robot in the classroom - friend or foe? RESEARCHERS from the University of the West of England (UWE Bristol) are investigating how socially intelligent robots can be used in schools to support young autistic people. The research project will begin in November with the placement of the robot in classrooms scheduled for Spring 2021. Researchers will work closely with pupils and teachers at a special needs school in Somerset to design the project and ensure the robot addresses their needs. Over the course of two months, the robot will be placed in various classes at the school where it will be operated by a member of the research team. The robot will take part in regular teaching as well as interacting with children to support the teacher’s activities.

The socially intelligent robot, known as Pepper, is capable of joining in a range of simple social and physical activities with children, such as story-telling, games and informal chats. Programmed at the Bristol Robotics Laboratory, its behaviours and commands will focus on improving meaningful social interventions which many autistic children struggle with, such as social communication skills, joint attention (the shared focus of two individuals on an object) and exercising. Senior Researcher in Digital Education, Dr Nigel Newbutt, along with researchers from Architecture and the Bristol Robotics Lab who are working on the UWE Bristol project, said: ‘‘This project is particularly exciting as it is one of the few studies which places a robot in real classrooms and we are

putting the pupil and teacher experience at the centre of the research. ‘We already know that robots can offer a range of benefits to people with autism but now we can explore exactly how they work in a school setting and how children and teachers can

make the best use of them; in areas identified by the pupils and teachers themselves. It will be particularly interesting to see how pupils view and engage with the robot. For example, it could be seen as a friend, teaching assistant or simply a piece of equipment.’’

Independent Day School for Boys and Girls

Where education is a journey, not a race

BRISTOL STEINER SCHOOL Personalised Tours To book a personalised tour, contact Reception: 0117 933 9990 reception@bristolsteinerschool.org Redland Hill House, Redland, Bristol BS6 6UX

Friday 2 October Saturday 7 November

AMakefresh start a change for good. Join us for a Virtual Visit this autumn.

Small class sizes Specialist teaching Excellent pastoral care

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

October, 2020

n EDUCATION

Colston’s celebrates 'fantastic' A-level outcomes PUPILS, staff and parents are celebrating after Colston’s Upper Sixth delivered an exceptional set of academic and vocational results. Despite the challenges of 2020, that has seen exams cancelled and pupils out of school since March, the headline statistics demonstrate that Colston’s A-level and BTEC students have once again excelled: 52% of A-level grades were awarded at A*/A 80% of A-Level grades were awarded at A*/B 90% of BTEC grades were awarded at Starred Distinction / Distinction (the equivalent of A*/A). Colston’s Headmaster, Mr. Jeremy McCullough, said: “Regardless of the surprises that 2020, and more recently Ofqual, have had in store for us, we were not at all surprised to see our brilliant Upper Sixth Formers

Last year's Heads of School, Jack and Zara, with their A Level results. Jack achieved 3 A* and is off to study Medicine at Cardiff University. Zara achieved ABB and will be studying Anatomy at the University of Bristol. rewarded with some fantastic grades. They may not have got to sit their actual examinations but their hard work and effort throughout their studies have seen them secure very impressive outcomes. “I know this cohort has had

a pretty tough time of things in 2020, but I am delighted to report that the very great majority of them have earned the grades they need to move on to their chosen university courses or apprenticeships; with 90% earning their place on their first-

choice university course. “We wish them well for their next steps and we still plan to have them back to school for their final farewells once we are able to say congratulations in person.”

INDEPENDENT CO-EDUCATION SIXTH FORM

JOIN US AT OUR SIXTH FORM INFORMATION EVENT THIS AUTUMN To find out more, visit: www.colstons.org/welcome-to-sixth-form To advertise, contact Emma on 0117 9082121 or 07715 770448 or email emma@bishopstonvoice.co.uk. Got news? Email: news@bishopstonvoice.co.uk

October, 2020

bishopstonvoice

n EDUCATION

New play area for St Bon’s pupils IT has been an exceptionally busy summer at St Bons. The Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) area at the school in Egerton Road has been re-developed, ready to be used by Reception pupils and St Bon’s pre-school children. The new area provides the children with lots of opportunities to explore their environment including a water exploratory area, climbing frame and mark making areas. This year’s new cohort has thoroughly enjoyed testing it all out! Throughout the summer holidays St Bon’s remained open and provided holiday club provision for our families. Both the children and staff children have thoroughly enjoyed their days. Now that all children have returned to school, staff have prioritised providing a well-being library which has supported the children to explore themes which might be linked to some of their experiences of lockdown and the impact coronavirus has had on them. St Bon’s are also fortunate to have received a donation of £500 from the charity, Pride, which has enabled them to fund a suite of books which reflects the diversity of our school community. St Bon’s teachers look forward to a busy term ahead and would welcome visits from families with prospective Reception aged pupils who will start school in September 2021.

ST B O NAVE NTURE ’S S T BO N AV EN TU R E ’’ S S T AV R CATHOLIC PRIMARY SCHOOL S T BO BO N N AV E EN N TU TU RE E ’’ S S S T BO N AV E N TU R E S CATHOLIC PRIMARY SCHOOL CATHOLIC PRIMARY SCHOOL CATHOLIC CATHOLIC PRIMARY SCHOOL Striving to be PRIMARY the best weSCHOOL can, Striving to be the best we Striving to belight the of best we can, can, guided by the Christ Striving to we Striving to be be the the best bestChrist we can, can, guided guided by by the the light light of of Christ guided guided by by the the light light of of Christ Christ

OPEN DAYS OPEN DAYS OPEN DAYS 2021 FOR FORRECEPTION RECEPTIONSEPTEMBER SEPTEMBER 2021 FOR 2021 FOR RECEPTION RECEPTION SEPTEMBER SEPTEMBER 2021

We would be delighted if you could join us for one of our Open Day tours for We would be delighted if you could join us for one of our Open Day tours for We would be delighted if you could join us for of one of our Open DayOctober tours forto prospective parents. We will be holding a series Open Days from We delighted you join us for of Open Day tours prospective parents. We if becould holding series of Open from We would would be be delighted ifwill you joina for one one of our ourDays Open DayOctober tours for forto prospective parents. will becould holding aus series Open Days from October to January We in groups of no more thanof two families. prospective parents. We will be holding a series of Open Days from October January in groups of no more than two families. prospective parents. Weinwill be holding a series oftwo Open Days from October to to January groups of no more than families. Dates areare available onon our website –of– see the Admissions / /Open Days section. January in groups no more than two families. Dates available our website see the Admissions Open Days section. January in groups of–no more than two families. Dates are available on our website see the Admissions / Open Days section. If you areare not able to to visit the school, please share your interest as a video tour will Dates are available on our website – see the Admissions / Open Days section. If you not able visit the school, please share your interest as a video tour will Dates on our website – see the Admissions / Open section. If you areare notavailable able to visit theavailable school, please share your interest asDays a video tour will be for totoview. If please share your beschool, available foryou you view. If you you are are not not able able to to visit visit the the please share your interest interest as as a a video video tour tour will will beschool, available for you to view. be be available available for for you you to to view. view.

Places are available for Places available Places areare available forfor Places are available for children to start in 2021. Places available for children to start in 2021. children toare start in 2021. children children to to start start in in 2021. 2021. All are welcome at All are welcome All are welcome at at All are St Bonaventure’s. All are welcome welcome at at St Bonaventure’s. St Bonaventure’s. St Bonaventure’s. St Bonaventure’s.

Bookings now open. Please contact: Bookings now open.Please Pleasecontact: contact: Bookings now open. Bookings Bookings now now open. open. Please Please contact: contact: Email: admissions.stbonaventures@bristol-schools.uk Email: admissions.stbonaventures@bristol-schools.uk admissions.stbonaventures@bristol-schools.uk Email: Email: admissions.stbonaventures@bristol-schools.uk admissions.stbonaventures@bristol-schools.uk Email: Web: stbons.uk Web: stbons.uk stbons.uk Web: Web: stbons.uk Web: stbons.uk Phone: 0117 353 2830 Phone:0117 0117 3532830 2830 Phone: 353 Phone: Phone: 0117 0117 353 353 2830 2830

Let’ s do this! Join us for a Virtual Visit this autumn.

Seniors - Saturday 10 October Sixth Form - Thursday 15 October 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

October, 2020

n EDUCATION

Communities launch a history podcast A NEW podcast bringing to life the stories of the people and communities that make Bristol such a special and unique place is being launched next week, thanks to the support of UWE Bristol. The 12 Communities One Bristol podcast by Bristol community radio station BCfm includes 12 episodes focused on a particular Bristol neighbourhood - Barton Hill, Knowle West, Lawrence Weston, Easton, Fishponds, Hartcliffe, St George, Hillfields, Southmead, Eastville, Stockwood and Avonmouth - and the stories of people from those communities. UWE Bristol provided the initial pilot funding for the project through a Community Grant from the UWE Bristol Fund. Nine MA Radio Journalism students, led by Dr Anne Harbin, Associate Head

of Department for Broadcast and Journalism, researched, recorded and edited short audio pieces which form part of the new podcast. Podcast presenter Marcus Smith said: "There are stories of an old man in Hartcliffe who eats snails and calls them wall-fish, funny tales from a female rugby team based in Avonmouth, plus hip-hop from Knowle West and conservations about bees in St

George." "Many of these areas are often overlooked or stigmatised. So we have created something to change perceptions and share unique local stories. This new podcast is for Bristolians, welcomed newcomers and future generations to come." Cllr Craig Cheney, Deputy Mayor of Bristol, added: "I'm delighted to see the launch of a local podcast that will shine

a light on the lives of people from across Bristol's diverse and vibrant communities. Each community has its own stories to tell, and I'm looking forward to hearing about the uniqueness of each community and the things that tie us together as a city." Dr Harbin said: "I am so proud of the work our students did to help kick start this project. Some really interesting storytelling giving a real insight into Bristol's communities." Alongside BCfm and UWE Bristol, the podcast is made in partnership with Bristol Museums, Bristol Archives, UWE Bristol and funded by the National Lottery Heritage Fund. 12 Communities One Bristol will be available from Thursday 17 September on BCfm Radio, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts and all mainstream podcast providers.

WE'RE ONLINE TOO: WWW.BISHOPSTONVOICE.CO.UK

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

October, 2020

n EDUCATION A RESIDENT from Horfield has taken a leap of faith as she took on a skydive to raise money for the learning disability charity where she works. Patricia Gaitan is Commercial Development Manager at Hft, a national charity that supports more than 2,500 adults with learning disabilities across England and Wales to live the best life possible. Established in 1962, the charity uses its own unique Fusion Model to consistently deliver high quality, person-centred support across all its services. Services range from supported living to residential care – from a few hours a week to 24 hours a day. Hft also helps people with learning disabilities to take part in daily activities, make friends and develop relationships and to find work. Patricia has worked for the charity for four years, and the 42 year old was inspired to take on the challenge of a lifetime after seeing first-hand how hard Hft support workers have worked throughout the Coronavirus pandemic. Patricia had already raised £400 as she braced herself to take the plunge on Saturday September 12, which has risen to £672 at the time of writing. She travelled to Salisbury, where she jumped from a height of 12,500 feet and enjoyed up to 50 seconds of free-fall before opening her parachute. While preparing for the challenge ahead, Patricia had been receiving plenty of encouragement from her coworkers and two children, who were also there to support her on the day. All funds raised are going towards Hft’s Pandemic Appeal, which aims to ensure staff and supported people have access to vital supplies and services during an uncertain time.

Patricia before jump

bishopstonvoice

Charity worker takes to the skies for pandemic appeal

Speaking ahead of the challenge, Patricia said: “I’ve always loved adrenaline but have never dared to take on a challenge like this – until now! While I’m feeling nervous, I’m looking forward to the feeling of accomplishment when I land back on solid ground, and to the views of the Wiltshire countryside I’ll have on the way down. “After seeing our support workers working incredibly hard to care for and protect people with learning disabilities over the last few difficult months, I thought it was the right time to take a leap of faith for Hft. Our staff are heroes and have worked day and night to ensure people they support can find more enjoyment, comfort and satisfaction in their lives. They’ve inspired me to take on this challenge and I hope to do them proud.” The jump itself prompted some concerns from the family as Patricia explained: “Initially my partner was not very keen on the jump, but then he was very supportive. My kids loved the adrenaline of the day and are very proud of me. I think my friends and family all know the importance of the cause and how difficult lockdown has been for people with learning disabilities. “It took me a bit of time to take on board what I had done, but after a while it was very invigorating and I feel proud that

I managed to do it.” Emma Macdonald, Sporting and Challenge Events Manager at Hft, said: “Challenges are

a great way to have fun and fundraise for your favourite charity at the same time. We’re thrilled that Patricia is taking to the skies this month to raise funds for our Pandemic Appeal. Thanks to people like her, we’ve been able to raise vital funds for some of the most vulnerable people in society. A £10 donation could purchase shop vouchers for supplies such as food and hand gels, while £50 could help us be there for even more families through our Family Carer Support Service. We’re so grateful for Patricia’s efforts and will be cheering her on all the way.” To donate, visit Patricia’s fundraising page: https://www. justgiving.com/fundraising/ patricia-gaitan1 For more information about Hft please visit www.hft.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

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n FROM YOUR COUNCILLORS In Bishopston this month... Coronavirus Advice

BSL Interpreter using SignVideo.

Recent weeks have seen a rise in Covid-19 cases and, although the overall number of cases in the city remain low, city leaders are urging people to keep up the fight against the virus. Of particular concern are gatherings such as raves, house parties and other gatherings where social distancing can’t be maintained. We would encourage you to regularly visit bristol.gov.uk/ coronavirus, where you can find information about what you can and can’t do, how to get tested and what council services are affected. Please continue to follow social distancing, wear a face covering on public transport and when shopping, and take part in the test and trace programme if necessary. If you need help or advice then contact the Council’s team on coronavirus@bristol.gov.uk or 0800 694 0184. Deaf BSL users can contact the phoneline through a

Coronavirus Testing Centre The first walk-through testing site has opened in Bristol to help residents get a free test as quickly and as easily as possible if they develop symptoms of coronavirus. Located off St Paul’s Road at the rear of the University of Bristol’s Victoria Rooms near the Triangle, the site has been set up to provide an easily accessible and central location for more people to get tested for the virus. Anyone with symptoms, however mild, can get a free swab test that takes less than a minute. Tests should be booked or ordered as soon as symptoms begin at nhs.uk/ coronavirus or by calling 119 and results arrive the next day. New Licensing Proposals For The City Centre Local people and businesses are

October, 2020

being asked for their views on whether restrictions are needed on new applications for licensed premises such as pubs, clubs, restaurants, hotels, off licences and late-night takeaways in Bristol city centre. As part of a new consultation, people can give their views on the need for a Cumulative Impact Assessment. This would make it more difficult for businesses in the area to apply for a new licence, extend their operating hours or increase the size or capacity of their premises, unless the venue can show that there would be no adverse effect on the licensing objectives, in particular preventing crime, disorder and public nuisance. To take part in the consultation visit bristol.gov.uk/citycentrecia, or get paper copies by emailing licensingpolicy@bristol.gov.uk or calling 0117 357 4900. The consultation closes on the 28th October.

applied to convert the derelict building at 349 Gloucester Road (next to the Co-op) to one of their pubs. This is the latest in a series of attempts by the company to convert the property, and we understand that there is a variety of opinion locally as to whether the application should be approved. Given the substantial quantity of objections, the application will be decided on by a committee of councillors. Residents will have the opportunity to make statements to, and speak at, the committee meeting. We’ll update residents in this column when a date for the committee is set.

Wetherspoons

Eleanor Combley – Cllr.Eleanor. Combley@bristol.gov.uk / 07584 370 427

Pub chain Wetherspoons have

Stay safe! And of course please let us know if you have any comments or questions.

Tom Brook – Cllr.Tom.Brook@ bristol.gov.uk / 07584 370 425

In Cotham this month... Chandos Road partial closure trial Notices have appeared to say that the road will be closed between Cowper Road and 1 Chandos Rd from 24th September at various times following an unconsulted application from some businesses. I had passed on to Highways officers locals’ aspirations to make Chandos Road more people-friendly and attractive but was advised that funding was unavailable for social distancing or other measures.

FirstBus CEO promises no. 9 bus consultation will be re-run. Meanwhile the implanted 72 has started running along Redland Road but doesn’t go where it’s needed.

Chandos Road sacks to replace outside bins are scheduled to be rolled out for flats above shops on Friday 9th October. Watch out for explanatory letters.

Operation Beech will continuebelatedly. A&S Police and UoB have agreed terms but this will not restart until officers are available. They will respond on certain nights to 101 calls regarding ASB; the follow-up complaints procedure (below) still applies too. See: community-living@ bristol.ac.uk; UoB PC Harris 07889 657279, Community@uwe.ac.uk.

Cotham Gardens needs friends! Our only local multi-purpose open space is now even more important. Council maintenance is basic; just a little more support from a larger friends’ group would benefit everyone. Would you enjoy meeting new people, usefully exercising and glowing as you see your efforts growing? Contact me; I’ll put you in touch.

Rule of 6! I wrote to the universities before social distancing rules were tightened to ask what they were doing to inform new and returning students for their protection and to safeguard other residents. A message is going out.

Anthony Negus cllr.anthony.negus@bristol.gov.uk 07833 484344

Traders and residents welcome traffic restrictions on Chandos Road It was just a few days ago when I squeezed in for the ‘Eat out to help out’ government scheme and on its last day, treated myself to an alfresco tapas menu at Otira on Chandos Road. It felt normal to be sat out and yet this was actually an adaptation and a safe way of continuing to trade in what has been for many businesses trying times. Across the road Chandos Atelier continues to offer their take out craft packs and are planning their next innovation. I love this shop and we are so fortunate to have such a wonderful art opportunity in the ward. Chandos Road really is one of Bristol's best kept secrets and a major destination for art and food and that may have just been made easier with traffic restrictions that come into force at the end of September, enabling safe social distancing and to promote active travel measures encouraging walking and cycling provision in line with Government guidance to support recovery

from the Covid-19 emergency. The measures permit the safe and effective reopening of businesses and venues for an 18 month period between 4pm to 11pm on Thursdays; 1pm to 11.30pm Fridays; 9am to 11.30pm Saturdays; and 9am to 10pm Sundays.* The restrictions were trialed before coming into effect. Emma from Chandos Atelier commented: “The road was closed for the first time last weekend. I offered arty activities for the children on both Friday after school and Saturday morning, Otira had a tapas terrace outside and the long queues for the Fish Bar were safe from cars, plus not impeding other pedestrians. It made a huge difference to the feeling of safety for cyclists and pedestrians, plus some of the affected businesses were able to trade safely.” *ALTERNATIVE ROUTE: Chandos Road (part unaffected), Elliston Road, Clyde Road, Hampton Road, Chandos Road (part unaffected) and vice versa. Cleo Lake 07584 480531 cllr.cleo.lake@bristol.gov.uk

IF IT'S NEWS - Email news@bishopstonvoice.co.uk To advertise, contact Emma on 0117 9082121 or 07715 770448 or email emma@bishopstonvoice.co.uk. Got news? Email: news@bishopstonvoice.co.uk

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October, 2020

n FROM YOUR COUNCILLORS In Redland this month... New approach promised but no change in sight for safer streets Fi, Martin and other councillors met with Kye Dudd, the Cabinet member for Highways, to discuss the next steps to deal with the ongoing parking problems on our streets. The long awaited results of the parking survey failed to convince the Labour administration that further residents' parking zones were wanted or needed. Instead, a “more holistic” approach will be taken. What this will consist of is as yet unclear, although low traffic neighbourhoods and liveable streets were mentioned. A meeting is due to take place in late September with senior officers and Cllr Dudd to flesh out the next steps. Fi and Martin are very concerned that with the Highways department currently desperately short of staff, the scant prospect of further funding from central government, and attention focussed on emergency travel schemes, our residents will continue to struggle with dangerous streets for years to

come. We have asked for the full report of the survey to be released.

pesticide use could be reduced in the future. Watch this space!

Road safety held up We are disappointed at the lack of progress with the Cranbrook Road crossing at Cairns Rd - see item page 2. We’re working with residents to find out when there will be designs, how these will get consulted, and when something will actually be built.

Potholes patched As winter draws ever closer, Fi and Martin have been redoubling efforts to get local roads fixed, and fit for the dark nights. They’ve been encouraged by the appearance of a number of notices indicating that prepatching works are about to start in a few areas across the ward, starting with the bottom of Claremont Road (although not yet! - Kersteman Road, which we reported on in August’s column). At last some movement - but do keep reporting via the council FixMyStreet link.

Allotments going organic? In the wake of the covid crisis, lots more people have been taking a keen interest in growing their own food - local allotments have never looked so neat! Some residents contacted FI and Martin to ask if the Council could take steps to reduce the glyphosate used by allotment holders and encourage more organic growing. FI contacted officers who are currently putting together a revised allotment strategy and was encouraged to learn that they are considering specific sites for organic growth and also how

n FROM YOUR COUNCILLORS In St Andrews this month... Bristol libraries reservation service You can now use the LibrariesWest website (www.librarieswest.org. uk) to make reservations for items from the catalogue. The Bristol libraries you can collect your reservation from will be limited to those sites that are currently open – Central, Fishponds, Henbury and Stockwood libraries. A temporary limit of 10 reservations per library member at any one time has been put in place to help manage demand. Licensing proposals for the city centre The city centre has a significant concentration of alcohol-led late night venues, and continues to witness a high number of Police related incidents and other related crime and disorder. Bristol City Council wants to hear your views on the need for a Cumulative Impact Assessment, which could help to reduce problems by

making it more difficult for venues in the area to apply for a new license, extend operating hours or increase in size, unless they can show there would be no adverse effect on crime, disorder and public nuisance. To have your say visit www.bristol.gov.uk/citycentrecia before the closing date of 28 October. BCC Re-Use Shop Bristol City Council in partnership with Bristol Waste Company has opened a brand-new re-use shop at Avonmouth Recycling Centre (Kings Weston Lane, BS11 0YS), filled with low cost goods, such as TVs, toys, furniture and vacuums – all diverted from disposal. The store, which is the first of its kind for the Council and Bristol Waste, is open Monday – Friday between 10am and 3pm. All items for sale have been saved from going to waste, with the income generated used to fund and further develop reuse work, and a percentage of

Fly tipping hotspots tackled With waste services disrupted during the pandemic, and many more DIY projects and spring cleaning initiatives during lockdown we have been monitoring flytipping problems in the Ward. We’ve also reported some problems via the council website so they can get cleared

profits donated to local charities. For more information visit www. bristolwastecompany.co.uk/reuse Local Crisis Prevention Fund The Bristol City Council Local Crisis Prevention Fund (LCPF) is now accepting claims for those returning to school who need assistance with food, school uniforms, shoes and stationery costs, and support is available in the form of Tesco and Co-op supermarket vouchers. This grant will help children across Bristol adjust to going back into, or remaining a school environment, especially those from lower income families or suffering loss of business and finances as a direct result of the coronavirus pandemic. The Council hope that the financial help available will help overcome barriers to learning and improve school attendance. The Council can accept direct applications or referrals for assistance from schools, key workers and other professionals working with vulnerable parents, carers, children and young people. For more

promptly. The restricted access to household reuse and recycling centres (also known as ‘the tip’) affects waste removal too. There are also far too many illegal, unlicensed waste companies operating online which puts the householder or business at risk of prosecution when their waste gets flytipped - so beware cheap deals! To help deal with some local hotspots Martin arranged to meet a Bristol Waste officer on site to discuss how they can target hotspots and ways to persuade landlords, businesses and residents to present their waste legally and responsibly. Contact us on Cllr.fi.hance@bristol. gov.uk and Cllr.martin.fodor@bristol. gov.uk or call us via 0117 352 6156. We’d like to keep in touch with an occasional newsletter about our work in the ward – please register: http://www.eepurl.com/dDKyB1 Martin Fodor & Fi Hance 0117 352 6156

information visit http://www.bristol. gov.uk/lcpf Council meetings BCC are still conducting official meetings via videoconferencing, and you can watch these live on their official Youtube channel (http://bit.ly/2V0hxLO). To find out when meetings are happening visit http://bristol.gov.uk/councilmeetings. Members of the public can still submit statements or questions to meetings by emailing Democratic Services (democratic. services@bristol.gov.uk). The next meeting of Full Council is on Tuesday 10 November at 6.00pm. 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

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

bishopstonvoice

October, 2020

n NEWS

Give your views on new licensing proposals for Bristol city centre LOCAL people and businesses are being asked for their views on whether restrictions are needed on new applications for licensed premises such as pubs, clubs, restaurants, hotels, off licences and late night takeaways in a specific area of Bristol city centre. As part of a new consultation, people can give their views on the need for a Cumulative Impact Assessment. This would make it more difficult for businesses in the area to apply for a new licence, extend their operating hours or increase the size or capacity of their premises, unless the venue can show that there would be no adverse effect on the licensing objectives, in particular preventing crime, disorder and public nuisance. The Cumulative Impact Assessment proposal would form part of Bristol City Council’s Statement of Licensing Policy, which came into effect on 1 August 2020 with the council recommending further consultation on the proposed Cumulative Impact Assessment.

This draft Cumulative Impact Assessment mirrors the previous city centre Cumulative Impact Area but with a revised boundary that now excludes Broadmead. Councillor Steve Pearce, Cabinet Member with responsibility for Regulatory Services, said: “We want to take an informed approach

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to licensing in the city centre, so that businesses can thrive without compromising public safety or enjoyment of the area. Our proposed Cumulative Impact Assessment is supported by crime statistics, and now we want to hear from local people and businesses on this approach.” The Cumulative Impact Assessment proposal is supported by crime statistics supplied by Avon and Somerset Constabulary, which show the area has a significant concentration of alcohol-led venues, and continues to witness a high number of incidents and other related crime and disorder, including public nuisance and risk to public safety. The consultation will close on 28 October 2020. To take part in the consultation visit www. bristol.gov.uk/citycentrecia Paper copies are available from the council Licensing Team by emailing them on licensingpolicy@bristol.gov.uk or calling 0117 357 4900.

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October, 2020

n NEWS

Small traders make it big at The Arches

AS part of the launch of Colin Moody’s new book, The Great Bristol High Street Glorious Gloucester Road, the author hosted an exhibition of photographs on two billboards by The Arches on Cheltenham Road to showcase some of the amazing traders that make the Gloucester Road such an important independent street. Working in cooperation with Bristol-based media owner, Out Of Hand, Colin created portraits of local traders. He said: “The book I have made celebrates the people of Gloucester Road: the shoppers and traders who make it the vibrant and thriving cornucopia of independent businesses that is home to one of the longest runs of independent shops in the UK. “As a photographer I am constantly drawn to this energetic environment. When Covid came and so many businesses shut while the book launch itself was also delayed it felt right to find a new way to launch the project that directly supported the traders at this difficult time and I am most

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grateful to Out Of Hand for leading on this.” Nigel Muntz, Out Of Hand commercial director, said: “As a local company, we are keen to support local causes and businesses. We can do this by making this advertising space that is traditionally dominated by national companies available to local businesses, who need all our support to survive at the moment.” The book was featured in the Bishopston Voice this spring in advance of its publication but all events had to be cancelled because of Covid. Colin has been keen to do something positive with the local traders and draw attention to their strength. Councillor Cleo Lake, artist

and writer of an essay in the book says: “The high street carries a spirit that cannot be found or bought in a shopping mall or retail outlet. No longer restricted to a run of shops, the essence of the high street is a place where you meet, make, do, avoid, prepare for birth, death and shop…and Bristol will be lost if we lose the independence on offer from our high streets. Money is tight for many people but if you can afford an extra 50p on an item to buy from a local trader then that could mean survival or not in the long run.” One of the businesses that opened up while Colin was making the book was funeral directors, Divine Ceremony. Owner Dee wrote an essay

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in the book and said: “Our independent high streets are so very important to us; they are a lifeline for many of our communities, and none more so than Gloucester Road - which is why this book is so relevant. “During lockdown I opened my doors in eerie silence every day, wondering how many of these wonderful businesses would re-open. "Now, as we emerge, I truly believe these wonderful independent shops are more relevant than ever.” The Great Bristol High Street - Glorious Gloucester Road is available at Room 212 and Bristol Co-Lab on Gloucester Road, independent bookshops and online.

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n NEWS A NEW support programme is offering West of England employers help to respond to mental health concerns in the workplace, particularly those arising from Covid-19. The West of England Combined Authority (WECA) is investing in the two-year Thrive at Work West of England programme, which aims to address the key mental health issues that businesses say are affecting their employees, and impacting productivity. The package of support, including training resources, is available through WECA’s West of England Growth Hub website. It includes mental health e-learning to equip managers with the confidence and skills to have supportive conversations with their staff about mental health and wellbeing, particularly in these challenging and changing times. The training is funded by WECA and will be targeted towards small and medium-sized businesses and ethnic minorityled companies to help support those who may have been impacted the most by Covid-19. West of England Mayor, Tim Bowles, said: “Mental health and wellbeing can have a huge impact on individuals, employers, and

October, 2020

New support to boost workplace wellbeing and mental health

the wider economy. Following the coronavirus outbreak, I’ve listened to businesses to find out what help they need and I’m supporting them in their recovery. “Thrive at Work West of England is the latest in a package of measures I’ve announced to help support our region’s economy and people’s jobs following the pandemic. It will help businesses across the West of England to support the mental health and wellbeing of their employees and respond to

Free emotional health courses OASIS-TALK, 10 Orchard Street, BS1 5EH, has free spaces on two emotional health courses for people aged under 50 on an income of less than £16,000 per annum. Relaxation for Mind and Body - starting on October 20, from 6 - 7.30pm for six weeks, is delivered via Zoom. Improving your sleep - starting November 4, from 12.30 - 2pm for six weeks, is also delivered via Zoom. To find out more visit the website: www.oasis-talk.org, book by emailing info@oasis-talk.org or call 0117 927 7577.

the impacts of coronavirus on mental health. “Our businesses and workers need help and support from a trusted source during these difficult times. Therefore it’s reassuring that the e-learning content has been written by Mind, a leading authority on mental health.” Mental health is an issue that can have a huge impact upon individuals, their employers and the wider economy. Research carried out across the UK in August found that 39% of people said their well-being was being affected by the pandemic through stress, anxiety, boredom and loneliness; of these, 9% reported that they were worried about a possible job loss and 9% said they were worried about returning to work. Thrive at Work West of England is a collaboration between WECA, Bristol, Bath & North East Somerset, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire councils, the

mental health charity Mind, plus businesses and organisations in the Thriving at Work regional network and the unions. Bristol’s Deputy Mayor, Councillor Asher Craig, said: “I welcome the launch of the new ‘Thrive at Work West of England’ programme, which is supporting businesses during Covid-19, and underlining the importance and value of good mental health and wellbeing practices in the workplace. Bristol led the way in the region by launching ‘Thrive’ last year, and also by being the first city in the UK to sign-up to the new Mental Health at Work Commitment. “Our mental health is just as important as our physical health, and we know that Covid-19 has had a significant impact on people’s lives and mental wellbeing, so this programme is even more important now as we navigate economic uncertainty. Together, with our partners in the region, we are working to support and promote healthy workplaces where people can thrive.” Thrive at Work, and other packages of support, can be accessed through WECA’s regional Growth Hub. WECA’s focus is on rebuilding a strong regional economy, to enable long-term recovery for the West of England. The aim is to help businesses build their financial resilience, innovate and adopt best practice, and boost their productivity.

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October, 2020

n NEWS

Donations provide £44k research boost VITAL coronavirus research in Bristol has been awarded £44,499 by Southmead Hospital Charity thanks to donations from the public. The funding will enable researchers to continue the next phase of their research to find new breakthroughs in treatments and understanding of the virus to ultimately save lives. The additional funding comes on top of an initial £22,000 given by Southmead Hospital Charity at the start of the three groundbreaking research projects. But the charity still needs more support to reach their target of £815,000 to fund this research to develop tests to diagnose and identify immunity to Coronavirus (Covid-19), explore secondary lung and infection complications from the virus and test new drug treatments for Coronavirus (Covid-19). Researchers are working

alongside doctors and nurses on the frontline to give NHS clinicians in Bristol better ways of treating people who have Coronavirus. The projects have already recruited over a hundred patients who have recovered from Coronavirus to help. These projects will also bring better understanding of the longterm impact of the virus and will support the NHS in preparing for a new medical landscape of the future. Dr David Arnold, from Southmead Hospital (North Bristol NHS Trust) and NIHR Doctoral Research Fellow in University of Bristol’s Medical School, who is leading one of the research projects called DISCOVER, said: “We are thrilled to have secured this latest round of funding to enable us to continue our Coronavirus research work. “Thank you to everyone who has supported this appeal

– you have enabled us to make some real progress in our understanding of Coronavirus. “I am confident that we can continue to make progress in understanding how we can support our clinical colleagues in the NHS to better treat patients and identify who is most at risk from this virus.” Director of Southmead Hospital Charity, Sarah Harrison, said: “We are proud to be able to continue our funding of these important projects. “It is thanks to our donors and supporters that we have been able to give this latest round of funding; which is testament to the people of Bristol who have stepped up and supported us brilliantly throughout this pandemic. “But there is still a long way to go and is crucial that we continue this momentum so I’d appeal to the people and businesses of Bristol to get behind our

Leading the DISCOVER research project, Dr David Arnold researchers and support their work by donating to our appeal.” Led by the team at North Bristol NHS Trust, in partnership with local NHS Hospitals, Public Health England and the University of Bristol, these pioneering projects are contributing to a UKled research programme for Coronavirus (Covid-19) which researchers hope will lead to new breakthroughs in fighting the virus. To donate to Coronavirus (Covid-19) research projects see: Southmeadhospitalcharity.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

October, 2020

bishopstonvoice

n NEWS PROFESSOR Paul R Goddard, a retired doctor who used to work at the BRI, has written a book about all the plagues man has encountered including Covid-19. In his latest book - Pandemic - Prof. Goddard reviews the history of pandemics including malaria, leprosy, TB and HIV in a blanched and witty way, going into detail on the top 10 of all time. Pandemic is a fascinating history of the horrid diseases that have plagued mankind. As well as being full of useful historical facts and amusing cartoons, each disease is graced with a list of famous sufferers, doctors who made a difference in overcoming these maladies and anecdotes of personal experiences by the author. The book features many photographs to illustrate these illnesses as well as images of Bristol and other cities during lockdown. There’s a local slant for Bristolians as the author has been living here since 1977, and currently resides in Redland.

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Asked how he managed to write the book so quickly, Prof. Goddard said: “Like many doctors I predicted that there would be a novel coronavirus pandemic. I sat down to write the book three years ago and the Covid-19 pandemic stimulated me into finishing it.

“A professor from Canada emailed me with congratulations and stated that it has exactly the right mix of education and entertainment.” Professor Paul R Goddard is a Visiting Professor at the University of the West of England and has written ten textbooks, fourteen novels, an anthology of poetry and around 500 medical papers. During his medical career Paul won prizes for his medical publications including the Couch Award and the Twining Medal of the Royal College of Radiologists and the Barclay Prize from the British Institute of Radiology,

2002/2003. Leader of the Bristol band Dr Jazz, Paul also enjoys painting in acrylics and designs the covers of his own books. Pandemic by Paul R Goddard is published by Clinical Press Ltd. Full list price £14.99. The book can be ordered from any good bookshop or online.

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bishopstonvoice

October, 2020

n NEWS THE Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB) is calling on people in the South West to look after their eyes during this year’s National Eye Health Week (21 – 27 September). The charity is highlighting the role that high street optometrists can play in eye care, at a time when hospitals are facing backlogs in appointments caused by delays and cancellations as a result of lockdown. Louise Gow, specialist lead in eye health at RNIB, said: “It’s very important that people in the South West look after their eyes in order to avoid unnecessary sight loss. The most common sight conditions in the UK, including cataracts, glaucoma and age-related macular degeneration (AMD) can be detected during a routine eye test. With optometrists re-opening after lockdown, we are urging anyone who is due an eye test to get in contact with their optician and book an appointment. “Numerous safety measures have been put in place to reduce the risk of spreading coronavirus,

Eye tests more important than ever, sight loss charity warns

The Eden Project as seen with a simulation filter of cataracts. This filter provides an idea of what people with cataracts can see, but is not representative of everyone’s experience with the same condition. including asking people to arrive exactly at the time of their appointment to avoid full waiting rooms or delays, staff wearing full PPE and social distancing between staff and patients where possible. We want to reassure people that every effort is being

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made to ensure their safety and urge them to get any sudden changes in vision seen to.” The past few months have seen a shift in how high street optometrists provide support. Many opticians have been open throughout lockdown to advise

over the phone or see people who were worried about their vision face-to-face. In many areas, optometrists were involved in providing expertise for the Covid Urgent Eyecare Service (CUES). Since the easing of lockdown, they have been supporting hospital eye clinics by managing some of the routine assessments that hospital teams are not able to see yet, such as checking eye pressures and triaging minor eye conditions. This is in addition to the specialist optometry services already in place. If you’re unsure about attending eye care appointments or are unable to attend, please contact your optometrist or hospital eye department. If you have any concerns about your vision, contact RNIB’s Sight Loss Advice Service on 0303 123 9999 or visit rnib. org.uk/eyehealth.

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

bishopstonvoice

October, 2020

n NEWS

Trinity creates an outdoor venue

RENOWNED music host The Trinity Centre in Old Market is to launch a new outdoor venue in a specially erected tent in the grounds of the historic former church. Trinity Presents: Garden Sessions will run throughout October, launching its first weekend with Bristol's experimental trio Waldo’s Gift (Oct 16), Livity Sound's Hodge & Danielle (Oct 17), and Afrobeats' DJ Neyo, Dancehall Generals, DJ Wally & DJ Simba (Oct 18). Venue manager, Jamell Ackford, said: “We

cannot wait to welcome our music-loving audiences back to Trinity and have worked hard to make sure that we can provide a safe space for our audiences to come and enjoy what they love most - music. 'We cannot wait to bring well-loved artists, from Bristol and beyond, back to Trinity” Ticket buyers can book a table for up to six people (from £42). Drinks will be served via table service and there will also be options to purchase food. Tickets are available from TrinityBristol.org.uk.

Choral Society launches CD BRISTOL Choral Society is hosting an online event on Zoom to celebrate the release of its first recording of works for choir, piano and percussion with classical label Delphian. Musical director Hilary Campbell will be joined by Judith Weir, Master of the Queen's music and composer of the disc’s title piece ‘The Big Picture’ on October 23 from 19.30 - 21.00. They will play extracts from the album, which includes music by Weir, McDowall and Chilcott, and interviews with composers and performers. It is all crisp, exciting and evocative music, and represents a new departure for the choir, moving into the recording world. The event ticket price of £16.76 includes a copy of the CD, which was recorded in January 2020 at St George’s, Bristol. To get a ticket (including the CD posted to you) see: www. eventbrite.co.uk/e/bristolchoral-societys-the-big-picturecd-launch-event-cd-includedtickets-117884484667

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bishopstonvoice

October, 2020

n NEWS

Dunk a donut for dementia DEMENTIA charity Bristol Dementia Action Alliance (BDAA) are asking for people affected by the illness to ‘Donate for a Donut’ and support their awareness-raising work on October 20. In the daytime, gather your friends, family and colleagues together in person (social distanced) or online and share a cuppa and a donut and donate a small amount to BDAA via their website to support their vital work. Join them in the evening at 7.30pm on Zoom for a review of their year: celebrating their achievements in raising awareness of Dementia in the Bristol area. For more see: www.bdaa. org.uk/2020/09/03/dunk-adonut-for-dementia-day/

111 places in Bristol that you shouldn’t miss A NEW book features interesting and unusual places not found in traditional travel guides. Photographer Barbara Evripidou who lives in Surrey Road, Bishopston, and author Martin Booth pull back the curtain to reveal dozens of fascinating and eccentric destinations in Bristol. 111 Places in Bristol That You Shouldn’t Miss heads off the beaten track to a bridge to nowhere, leads your eyes downwards to a pavement plaque no bigger than a pencil remembering times past, draws your eyes upwards to a pair of mythical unicorns, and takes you away from the crowds to find a giant wicker nose, a pub populated by cats and a shelllined secret grotto.

Explore by rail on a small suburban branch line or even from a ferry designed by the inventor of the bagless vacuum cleaner, James Dyson, while

he was still a student – a modern-day Brunel. Barbara, who has lived in Bishopston for almost 20 years, has teamed up with her former newspaper colleague Martin to work together on the book, part of a global series of city guides that aim to showcase places not usually featured in guidebooks. "No matter whether you have lived here all of your life, are a frequent visitor or a first-time visitor, these are 111 things you might not have realised even existed," said Martin. "This is an exploration of unknown Bristol from the Ice Age to the present day."

n ADVERTISING FEATURE

Haveyour Will writtenfor freeandsupport your local NHS WE are living through unprecedented times which will shape the way we live and work for a long time to come. The Coronavirus pandemic will also shape the medical landscape and how our NHS can continue to care for our communities. Sarah Harrison, director of Southmead Hospital Charity, said: “Every day I am amazed by my NHS colleagues who save lives and care for patients and their families. “This has been a challenging time for us all and we need to do all we can to ensure future generations won’t face the uncertainties we have.” Leaving the gift of a donation in your Will is a special way to leave your legacy for the future. Your gift could play a vital role in helping your NHS in Bristol plan for the future; transforming lives for generations to come by providing state-of-the-art medical equipment or funding pioneering research. Your gift will ensure patients of the future receive the very best treatment and care. Bill Long decided to leave a gift in his Will as a thank you to the NHS for saving his life He said: “Eight years ago I was treated for prostate cancer at Southmead Hospital and the surgeons saved my life. “Without them I wouldn’t be here today so

I want to give something back to our precious NHS. “The process of leaving a gift in my Will was simple. I owe my life to the NHS and I’m proud that my legacy could save other lives in the future.” Write your Will for free Southmead Hospital Charity has partnered with

local solicitors to offer you the opportunity to have your Will written for free. Write or update your Will, at no cost to you, during September and in return we ask you to kindly consider leaving a gift to your local NHS through Southmead Hospital Charity. To discuss leaving a gift in your Will, request an information pack, or to register your interest in a free Will visit southmeadhospitalcharity.org. uk or contact Cate on 07514 941393.

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

bishopstonvoice

October, 2020

n ADVERTISING FEATURE

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n NEWS

School uniform donations RETURNING to school can be expensive at the best of times. Bristol Council has run a successful school uniform donation drive to help families that may be suffering from the economic impact of coronavirus. Some donations are still available to go out. If you're in need please get in touch with your local councillors (see contact details pages 24 - 25).

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bishopstonvoice

October, 2020

n MESSAGE FROM AVON & SOMERSET PCC

We cannot be complacent over coronavirus AS we leave the summer behind us, I’ve been reflecting on the challenges we have all faced over the last few months. I have been continually impressed by the commitment and determination of individuals, families and communities who have made personal sacrifices to help reduce the spread of the virus. 2020 has undeniably been a difficult year for everyone and I expect we will continue to see regulations and rules change throughout autumn and winter. The Chief Constable Andy Marsh and I will continue to provide updates and clarification in regards to policing coronavirus in our regular Facebook Live sessions. Last month, we saw new laws coming into force banning social gatherings of more than six people across England. As I’m sure we are all aware by now, these new regulations apply to all ages, to gatherings indoors and outdoors, in private homes, public outdoor

spaces and venues such as pubs and restaurants. There are some legal exemptions to the six-person rule, including when households or support bubbles are larger than six, as well as gatherings for work or education purposes, weddings and funerals, to name a few. The increase in cases is a stark reminder that we cannot be complacent; the virus has not disappeared. We need to continue to be cautious, act with common sense and follow the Government’s regulations, whether we like the rules or not. I have been impressed by how officers have dealt with policing the pandemic, especially as ‘business has returned to normal’ in recent months and demand has increased. I fully support their approach to engage, explain, encourage and, if necessary, enforce the regulations as a last resort. I am pleased this approach has been successful, as it has never

been more important to ensure we are supporting and being supported by local people and communities. We need to work together to get through this. We must take personal responsibility to protect ourselves, our families and our communities from the virus. I urge you all to remember that by following the regulations, you are making a difference. Finally, I recently announced I had allocated an additional £200,000 to support local charities, voluntary organisations and community groups to help deal with the consequences of the coronavirus. Such initiatives across Avon and Somerset are encouraged to apply for grants of up to £5,000. The next and final deadline for the Commissioner’s Community Action Fund (CCAF) is November 30. I want you to apply for the funding so we can support you and your innovative projects; by working together we can contin-

With Police and Crime Commissioner Sue Mountstevens

ue to make improvements and drive the change needed to help our communities. The application is a really straightforward process and we want to say yes to as many local initiatives as possible. For more information, please visit www.avonandsomerset-pcc. gov.uk/working-for-you/police-

n NEWS

Community Orchard Apple Day celebration on hold HORFIELD Organic Community Orchard (HOCO) has first hand experience of diseases and pests that won’t go away. Fungal diseases like canker, scab, and powdery mildew affect the health of trees. Sapsuckers such as aphids and shield bugs, or the burrowing grubs of sawfly and codling moth, take their toll on the harvest. In a lean year for fruit – like 2020 – more than half the crop can be lost to natural predators. There’s another way of looking at this. Humans are not the only consumers of the fruits of nature. We are predators too, who have the good fortune to share a wonderful planet teeming with countless other living creatures that are different from us. Not that everything on the planet is peachy. In midSeptember restrictions to reduce the numbers of people gathering together put an end to plans for a Covid-safe Apple Day in the

orchard. HOCO treasurer, Sue Powell says: “We’re gutted, but cancelling Apple Day seems the right thing to do in the face of so much uncertainty. “It’s our biggest event, and a huge financial loss to the orchard. We rely on funds raised at our public events to keep the orchard going. I’m looking at other ways to raise funds, and we’ll keep your readers up to date with developments.”

Meanwhile, the Apple Tree Lady has stepped in to raise funds for the orchard. Shannon Smith, the Orchard Learning coordinator, is keen to advise and encourage gardeners to give their fruit trees the love they need to thrive. Shannon says: “A well-cared fruit tree is alive with beauty and fruit. It can co-exist with pests and shrug off disease. Common causes of stress are easy to

remedy over time – and most fruit trees will then give goods crops of quality fruit.” Shannon is available to visit gardens and allotments during October for a one-hour consultation. The cost is £20, which includes a £5 donation to HOCO. Identifying mystery apples is a popular feature of Apple Day. Shannon is offering to do this for a donation to HOCO of £5 for each variety. She admits it’s more of an art than a science: “I can’t test the genes,” she said, “but I’ve seen hundreds of different varieties over the years. The mystery can usually be solved with the help of some good reference books. It’s fruitful fun - and all in a good cause!” For more information see the Public Events page on the HOCO website. To book an hour with the Apple Tree Lady see the HOCO website: www. community-orchard.org.uk or phone: 0117 373 1587.

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

bishopstonvoice

October, 2020

n HOME IMPROVEMENT

Tom Jackson, Commercial Lead

We Care Home Improvements, Improving your home around you

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struggling for quite some time to shower using three grab rails to get in and out of the bath and a stool to help us over. My lovely partner needed me to help every time she wanted a shower, which of course I would never mind doing, but for her dignity it’s nice to be able to do this for yourself. My daughter had been trying to get me to see sense and have the bathroom adapted to help us, but I have to say it took some time for me to bow to the pressure! Probably about 4-6 months! Firstly, we didn’t really know where to go to get help. I spoke to my doctor and he sent out an Occupational Therapist from the practise to see what could be done. When she came, I told her I was thinking

of getting a shower cubicle put in and the bath removed. Her words were “no, you don’t want to do that you could slip and get caught in the door”. She described a wet room to me which sounded just what we needed and then I thought we had better get the ball rolling. She gave me a list of contractors and three came to visit and gave quotes. We Care Home Improvements sent the quote within days. The quote was very reasonable and due to being disabled it was VAT exempt, so I decided to go ahead. We Care Home Improvements came and advised what they would be doing and set the date. The service was great at every step of the way and within four days

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

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

bishopstonvoice

October, 2020

n MAYOR'S VIEW

10-year plan for wildlife THE end of summer, and the changes we see in the nature around us, remind us of how much we enjoy the outdoors. This is especially true in a year where many of us have been indoors much more than we would have wanted. It has shown the importance of gardens, allotments, green spaces and parks and the wildlife we share them with. Bristol has 33 conservation areas and over 3,800 allotment plots. We have a wildlife network of 3,000 hectares, protecting a quarter of all the land area in the city. As the home of the BBC Natural History Unit, Bristol is even a leading global centre for wildlife expertise. But reports have painted a picture of global wildlife under threat. There has been a 60% decline in wild vertebrates worldwide since 1970. 44 million nesting birds, 30 million hedgehogs and 2.8 million brown hare have been lost from the UK since the middle of last century. In Bristol, the city’s swift and starling populations are much-reduced from what they were, with a 96% reduction birds between 1994 and 2014. Species extinctions are high and accelerating, with 41% of insects worldwide and 15% of UK species at risk. Because of Bristol’s environmental awareness many organisations across the city

have made their own conservation projects to protect and restore wildlife in our city. But we recognise that more can, and should, be done. This is why last year we declared an ecological emergency which recognises the scale of wildlife decline and the serious breakdown of the natural environment which we now face. Building on the climate emergency declaration before it, it has helped us to bring together city partners to confront the ecological decline we’re facing, building a blueprint for how we can all support nature’s recovery. We are now launching Bristol’s 10-year plan to protect our wildlife, ecosystems and habitats together. This plan recognises the essential role nature plays in society and the economy. From clean water and air, food, timber, climate change, flood protection, these clear statements of intent aim to protect our wildlife and environment, and deliver the wider benefits of a green, nature rich city into the everyday lives of the people of Bristol. Our focus will be how we can protect and support the natural spaces that support us, stop using pesticides that damage nature and stop pollution that damages important ecosystems. The good news is that there is still time to build back a world that is better for wildlife

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

and for people. This is about how we build and develop the city responsibly so that humans don’t threaten wildlife and instead support them to grow alongside us. We can’t solve this issue overnight but if we make sure we consider ecology and biodiversity when we build each new development, and take major city decisions, then we can start to make significant progress. This plan will help us kick-start the action we need to rapidly accelerate for the sake of natural life in Bristol.

n VINEYARD NEWS with INGRID BATES

Change in the air as autum arrives

LOVE the palpable change in the air that happens during autumn. The summer swallows have gone and small groups of starlings have replaced them. The colder nights seem to bring a clarity and change in smell to the air as plants stop growing and begin to die back for winter. In the vineyard, we have a very small crop of Pinot noir this year because of frost damage we suffered way back in the first week of May. Most people have probably forgotten this but we haven’t! The new stems that grew back after the frost had fewer flowers which set into even fewer grapes! Our Seyval blanc vines have a happier story as they recovered well from the frost and grew back with great gusto, to produce a really good crop of grapes which we hope to pick in a few weeks time. We’re gradually replacing our red Pinot noir grapes with another red variety called Regent which produces lovely, reliable crops and is naturally resistant to mildew. We planted 800 baby Regent plants in April this year and plan to plant more next spring. Looking at the baby vines this week they all seem to be doing well so we hope to harvest

our first tiny crop from them in a couple of years time. You have to be patient in grape growing but good things come to those who wait! Replacing our Pinot is all part of keeping the vineyard as sustainable as possible so that we can use minimum impact growing techniques and eliminate the use of chemicals. As part of this drive we’re also planning to mulch the larger sections of our willow windbreak this winter for use as weed control and also set up a large rainwater collection tank. On the wine front our rosé stocks are getting low and I’m about to get labels printed for our latest sparkling red and white wine releases. Both new sparkling wines have been made using low intervention methods. They are vegan and low in sulphur too. I get very excited about the sparkling red because it’s such an unusual product – this year it’s a bit lighter and more fruity than the first so it’ll be fun to see what people think of it. hello@dunleavyvineyards.co.uk www.dunleavyvineyards.co.uk @DYvineyards (twitter)

dunleavy vineyards (facebook & instagram)

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

bishopstonvoice

October, 2020

n NEWS

Log on for Wardrobe Theatre live show THE Wardrobe Theatre presents Beyond The Ridiculous in a live, improvised, online celebration of the human condition. The improvised performance of The New “Normal” takes place on Zoom on Saturday 10 October at 8pm. Beyond the Ridiculous are a collective of solo performance artists who perform ‘fooling,’ a style of live improvisation which draws on the performers own personal experiences. The group is led by performance skills teacher, director and dramatherapist Holly Stoppit. Beyond The Ridiculous have been performing live in venues across Bristol since 2014 and are delighted to be presenting The New “Normal,” their second online show, with support from The Wardrobe Theatre. For this one-off, never to be seen again, bespoke performance, five fools will tackle the theme of The New

“Normal,” exploring how our lives have been changed by cohabiting with the coronavirus. As the leaves turn with the seasons, blushing with all the stories they’ve overheard and falling to ground with grace, with shame, with pride, with belly laughs, with sobs and with the plethora of human-ness (or humanmess), the fools hold out a hand to capture their whispered stories just for you. They’ll dip into their toolkits to find the right form to lead you into their internal worlds. Using storytelling, dance, character play, clowning, music or silence, they’ll create a short improvised solo performance that may be anything from hilarious to harrowing. You might see your story reflected in their play, as the fools connect with what it is

to be a human, alive and bearing witness to this time. The New “Normal” is an online performance conducted over Zoom, the video conferencing software. Ticket holders will be contacted on the day of the performance by email with a link to join the Zoom. Tickets £5/£10 (+ booking fee) see: www.eventbrite.com/e/ beyond-the-ridiculous-the-newnormal-tickets-1202181808 15

n WHAT'S ON n ONLINE YOGA with Selina Ratcliffe. Practice yoga with me from the comfort of your own home. All welcome from beginners to more experienced. Class prices start from £5. I've been running popular daily online classes since March. If interested to learn more go to: www. selinaratcliffe.com via Contact Me page. n The Arts Society Bristol welcomes new members. The lecture on 13 October at 8pm is on "Prehistoric Potters". For more information visit our website www. theartssociety-bristol.org.uk n Bishop Road Community Choir are meeting online via Zoom on Wednesdays at 8pm for half an hour. If you would like to join us please use the following link: https://us04web.zoom.us/j/728087 21853?pwd=YzFtb3ZCN0RkNWlRe W9kdUR2dkxuUT09.

Let us know your events: EMAIL

Emma@bishopstonvoice.co.uk

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Our purpose is leading improvement in policing, victim support and criminal justice services on behalf of local people.

ABOUT POLICE AND CRIME COMMISSIONERS Police and Crime Commissioners (PCC) are elected to be the voice of local people in policing and to hold the Chief Constable to account PCCs ensure the delivery of an effective and efficient police service while enabling the Chief Constable and police to operate independently The PCC works in partnership with a range of local and national agencies to ensure there is a unified approach to prevent crime, support victims and reduce reoffending

YOUR PCC Until the 2021 elections, PCC Sue Mountstevens will continue to focus on the following key priorities: - Protect the most vulnerable from harm - Strengthen and improve local communities - Ensure the police service has the right people, right culture, right capabilities - Work together effectively with other police forces and key partners to deliver better services to local people

As a result of the coronavirus, there are particular areas under those priorities that the PCC wants to focus on, including: - Overseeing the work of the Violence Reduction Units (VRUs) to tackle serious violence - Oversight of the efficiency of the criminal justice system to ensure victims and witnesses are supported - Supporting local victim services with a particular focus on domestic abuse and sexual violence victims - Engaging with local communities to ensure they are supported during the ongoing health emergency

I want communities to know itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s their police service. It does not belong to any political party; it belongs to local people and they deserve to have a voice. My role is about being independent, open and compassionate.â&#x20AC;?

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Avon and Somerset Police and Crime Commissioner, Police Headquarters, Valley Road, Portishead, BS20 8JJ

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bishopstonvoice

October, 2020

n VET'S ADVICE

The need for vaccines

E are all now very familiar with the phrase ‘the need for a vaccine’ - it seems our hopes rest on vaccination against the coronavirus so we can start to get life back to normal. During the last six months, vets have still been working but initially only able to perform urgent and emergency consultations and surgeries, leaving the pets in need of vaccinations to wait until routine procedures were once again possible. We are now able to see routine consultations including vaccinations and we have started to clear the backlog. There is a vaccine amnesty in place ensuring that no pet who needs a restart course due to the delay, will need to pay any more than for a booster. For cats we allow three months overdue and dogs it is six months overdue before they need a restart. However, as in humans, there is a growing threat of ‘vaccine hesitancy’ among owners who are concerned about the need for a vaccine and are questioning why they are given. As a profession we need to be clear and honest about why we vaccinate, what we vaccinate against and what the benefits are to our pets. We routinely recommend annual vaccination for all

dogs, cats, rabbits and even ferrets. Do the vaccines need to be given annually or can they be assessed on a risk/benefit system and given as necessary? Dogs are routinely vaccinated against Distemper, Hepatitis, Parvovirus and Leptospirosis, an additional vaccine can also be used for Kennel cough. We alternate dog booster vaccines so as not to over vaccinate. Distemper, Hepatitis and Parvovirus is given every three years and if owners wish, a blood test can be taken to check the immune status of the dog before the boosters are given. Leptospirosis vaccine needs to be given annually and there is no blood test available to check immunity. Kennel cough is given to dogs who have close contact with other dogs either in kennels or with dog walkers or in classes. Cats are routinely vaccinated against Cat Flu, Enteritis and the Leukaemia virus. The leukaemia virus is not always necessary for cats who do not meet any other cats and it is usually not required by catteries. Rabbits are vaccinated each year against Myxomatosis and Viral haemorrhage disease, both rapidly fatal diseases of rabbits spread by flying insects so even solitary rabbits are at risk. Ferrets are advised to be vaccinated annually against Distemper using a dog vaccine. The vaccines protect against specific diseases but as important is the health check that the pet receives when coming in for a vaccine. At this time we do a complete head to tail examination of the pet to look for any underlying

issues. We can find lumps and bumps, check teeth, listen to heart and lungs, palpate abdomens, check weight and discus worm, flea and tick treatments as necessary. This can provide reassurance to owners that all is fine or can flag up areas of action required. The annual health check is a very important part of caring for a pet. It also allows vets to be able to prescribe prescription medications, particularly for antiparasitics as we need to be able to ensure the animal is ‘under our care’ and actively looked after by us. I hope we will soon have caught up with all lapsed vaccinations due to lockdown and all of our patients can once again receive their annual health check, do call us at the surgery if you think your pet is due and we will book you in as soon as possible. Meanwhile let us hope that the search for a coronavirus vaccine is successful. Nicky Bromhall MRCVS

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

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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

Easton>Bristol

Don’t miss this select new development of just 13 contemporary new homes in Easton – voted one of Time Out ‘s top 50 coolest neighbourhoods for its “globe-spanning food and drink, plethora of community projects and genuinely neighbourly atmosphere”. • Townhouses with 3 bedrooms + study • Energy efficient • Converted 3-bedroom coach houses • Flexible living space • Some units with private roof terrace • Dedicated residents’ parking • All units with private gardens

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October, 2020

bishopstonvoice

n PROPERTY Redland Court Reimagined. Launching September 2020 The long awaited and much anticipated Redland Court development is launching the first release of homes in September. Set within 3 acres of tranquil parkland, Juniper Homes will be offering a small collection of new and exquisitely refurbished historical 1-3 bedroom apartments and three stunning 4-bedroom Town houses in this first release. Redland Court is Bristol’s finest landmark development and here classic meets contemporary with uncompromising style and character resulting in high quality restoration, contemporary new building. Specification and finishes exceed expectation and the result is a development where no two homes are quite the same. Features within these spacious homes include breath-taking skyline views out across the City, soaring ceiling heights, restored historic features, private outdoor terraces, ultra-fast reliable fibre broadband connectivity and allocated parking. The scheme also falls within the coveted Redland Green School catchment area. Redland is one of Bristol’s most popular locations. With the City on your doorstep

and enviable connectivity, a home at Redland Court is a once in a life time opportunity. Creating homes for 21stCentury living Juniper Homes’ challenge has been to honour the historic fabric of the buildings, whilst introducing the standards we now expect. Attention to detail within the homes is evident and the individual building specification reflects the period of the property. Living space has been allocated with flair and imagination and cultivates an elegant and sophisticated palate of materials and finishes; each chosen to enhance the spirit of the individual buildings. With the current move to home working, Redland Court will provide ultra-fast reliable fibre broadband connectivity for residents. 3-acres of landscaped grounds and private terraces Emerging at the top of the buyer’s wish list is outdoor space. Redland Court is set in 3 acres of private residents’ gardens and grounds, all being lovingly brought back to life. From the sweeping lawns of the residents’ parkland to private outdoor terraces and gardens that enhance so many of these spacious homes, homes have been designed to maximise the outdoor

opportunities throughout the development. Redland Court offers a range of house and apartment styles including: • Spacious 1 – 4 bedroom apartments, duplexes and triplexes

• Spacious 2 - 4 bedroom houses from single storey contemporary designs to town houses set over four floors To find out more, register today at www.redlandcourt.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

Reimagined

There’s no place like it. First Release Launches September 2020

Step into a world where classical meets contemporary with an exclusive collection of spacious homes set in this landmark tranquil parkland setting.

• • • • • • •

Spacious 1 – 4 bedroom apartments and duplex Spacious 2-4 bedroom houses An exceptional specification throughout Secure under croft parking An exceptional location with stunning views High quality finishes individually designed to suit each building Includes ultra-fast reliable Fibre Broadband connectivity

bishopstonvoice

October, 2020

n INSIDE OUT THE Bristol interior design community is made up of heavyweight talents of which Jacky Puzey is just one. An eminent textile artist exhibiting all over the UK and internationally, Jacky specialises in contemporary bespoke machine embroidery and her work is, simply put, stunning. Following a career spanning fine art, photography, costume and pattern cutting, Jacky gained a PhD in Fashion, Textiles & Visual Culture and honed her production methods and signature style. Jacky uses textiles that are certified safe by the Oeko-Tex standard and is motivated by “the love of design, and the sustainability of the production of unique, loved pieces last much longer as everyone is more involved and invested in their creation.“ It is quite a process to get from initial design research and sketches to creating digitally produced artwork files that are then embroidered using specialist computerised machinery. Often using animals as motifs, the finished results are a combination of printed velvets, sheer organzas and intricate embroidery, sometimes with feathers and fur too which add a tantalising three dimensionality. The overall effect is rich, intricately detailed, and with sumptuous colour palettes lends itself well to the luxury end of interior design. Working largely on a commission basis Jacky produces embroidery for a range of applications from upholstery fabrics to decorative, silky art panels and wall coverings. If you’d like a smaller scale piece of these luxurious furnishings there are limited edition cushions available. To commission Jacky or further browse her wonderful work visit https:// jackypuzey.com

with interior designer Zoe Hewett

Zoe Hewett is founder of Stylemongers Of Bristol interior design studio. www.stylemongersofbristol.co.uk

bishopstonvoice

BUILDING SERVICES

LOCAL SERVICES To advertise, contact Emma on

0117 9082121 or 07715 770448 or email emma@bishopstonvoice.co.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

bishopstonvoice

46 BUILDING SERVICES

October, 2020 FLOORING

DRIVEWAYS

AGL DRIVEWAYS Tarmac & Block Paving

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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

October, 2020 LOGS FOR SALE

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47 SASH WINDOWS

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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

Fairfield High School

ACHIEVING EXCELLENCE The sheer quantity of opportunities FHS provided to progress & improve our passions and interests is unbelievable. - Alex (student)

Find out more... www.fairfield.bristol.sch.uk