Bishopston Voice September 2024 by Emma Cooper

Swimmers take silver medals

BRISTOL’S Izzy Thorpe and Kate Shortman made history by bringing home silver medals from the Paris Olympics.

The pair, who have been friends since they were eight years old, are Team GB’s first medallists in artistic swimming after their routine inspired by a rising phoenix earned them Olympic glory.

Both attended Clifton High School. Izzy, 23, from Westbury on Trym, is now a sports rehabilitation student at UWE Bristol while Kate, 22, who also attended Redland High and Redmaids’ High, studies international

management and French at the University of Bath.

The swimmers’ mothers Maria Shortman and Karen Thorpe also competed for GB in the sport, then called synchronised swimming. Karen is the GB team performance director.

The swimmers were welcomed back to Bristol by family, friends and neighbours.

Karen told the BBC: "Knowing how much it meant to them, it was really special.

"When they put the medals over their heads I thought wow, we've won a medal at the Olympic games, it's no longer a pipe-dream."

These students from Montpelier High School were among hundreds from across Bristol celebrating A-level success. PAGES 16, 26, 28 Park unveils sundial project

The Friends of St Andrews Park are inviting people to give their views on plans to install a sundial in the park. PAGE 3

Phoebe Hastings, from Bishopston, is planning to hike the 3,000 km length of New Zealand for St Peter's Hospice in memory of her dad Chris. PAGE 10

Winning smiles from Izzy Thorpe and Kate Shortman

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A sundial for the ages: a proposal for St Andrews Park

ST Andrews Park could soon feature an exciting new addition—a sundial that not only tells time but also serves as a unique educational tool for our community.

Local resident Nick Banks is putting forward a proposal to create a beautifully designed sundial that would become a focal point for both learning and leisure in our cherished green space.

The scheme is backed by Friends of St Andrews Park (FoSAP), which aims to facilitate it, working with the council and local community.

The idea stems from a desire to reconnect with the ancient art of timekeeping. Sundials have a long history, dating back to civilisations that first harnessed the sun’s movement to measure time. The proposed sundial for St Andrews Park aims to honour this tradition, while bringing a new, interactive element to the park that all ages can enjoy.

The hope is that is can be sited

near the park’s main entrance, where a sundial once stood, but its location will be carefully apprarised, taking into account sunlight and tree canopies.

The design is open for discussion, and the Friends are eager to hear from residents and artists who might want to contribute their ideas. By incorporating local materials and

Get ready to Party in the Park

GOLDEN Hill Sports Ground sees the return of its popular, annual Party in the Park on Saturday 14th September from 1pm onwards.

The main stage area will host live entertainment, including the Bristol Taiko Drummers, high-energy dance group Street Envy, two-piece band Ablex making its party debut, and the 12-piece Bristol Pop Orchestra.

With a special appearance by the Bristol Samba Band, grand prize draw and culminating in a fantastic firework display at 8.45pm, a fun-packed few hours are promised for all.

Entry is £4 for adults and £2 for children, with re-entry permitted on the day, but it is advisable to bring cash as some stalls will be ‘cash only’.

MIKE PALMER BUILDING

input, the sundial could become a true community project—a reflection of collective creativity and pride in St Andrews Park. In addition to its aesthetic appeal, the sundial could serve an educational purpose. We’re exploring the possibility of adding plaques that explain how sundials work and share insights into the history of timekeeping. Schools

could potentially use the sundial as a teaching resource, offering lessons on science, history, and art right in the heart of our park. It will give us the opportunity to tell stories about local history.

The project is in its early stages. FoSAP is seeking feedback and ideas from the community to help shape the proposal. We’re also looking at funding options, and community involvement will be key to making this vision a reality. Whether through design suggestions, donations, or simply sharing your thoughts, your input is invaluable.

We invite you to help us bring this project to life. To share your ideas or learn more about how you can get involved, please visit our website or Facebook page, email us at fosapsecretary@gmail.com or attend our next community meeting. Together, we can create something truly special for St Andrews Park.

Friends of St Andrews Park

Belmont

Rd. St Andrews, BS7

for sale with Ocean Bishopston

n NEWS

'Changing our city for the future'

BUSES and taxis could be banned from driving down The Horsefair in Broadmead.

Bristol City Council is planning the changes to help accommodate an extra 5,000 people who are expected to be living in and travelling around Broadmead in the next few years. The council is now consulting the public until September 30.

Pedestrianising the Horsefair and Penn Street would make the city centre more welcoming and people-friendly, according to the council.

The public consultation includes other changes, such as two miles of new cycling lanes, a new express bus route, and changing the Bedminster Bridges roundabout into a signal-controlled junction. Access would be kept for emergency vehicles, and deliveries at quiet times. Bus stops, disabled parking bays and taxi ranks would be removed.

Several bus routes currently run down The Horsefair, and these will be diverted through Fairfax Street and Broad Weir alongside the back of Castle Park. Fairfax Street, which runs underneath the Galleries, will be made wider, brighter and have shop fronts, with new lifts installed.

New bus stops would be no more than a five-minute walk from their current locations. Overall, there will be an increase in disabled

parking bays in the city centre, as part of separate plans to redevelop The Galleries shopping centre.

A new junction would be created next to Primark, connecting Union Street and the Haymarket. Taxis and motorcycles would be banned from Union Street, which would become two-way for buses and bicycles. This would allow a new ‘rapid transit route’ bus to run through the city centre. Terminated buses left empty would be moved out of shopping areas to Temple Way.

A bus gate would be installed at the Redcliffe roundabout, banning general traffic from driving up Redcliff Street. This is to speed up the journey times for the new rapid bus route, so buses don’t get stuck behind long queues of cars. Traffic would be diverted up Phippen Street instead.

Bus lanes would be created on Temple Way, as well as a new segregated cycle lane from the Old Market roundabout to the Temple Gate junction. Bus lanes would also be created on Bond Street, as well as a parallel cycling route running along Pembroke Street and Wilson Street.

Green Councillor Ed Plowden, chair of the transport policy committee, said: “These plans are transformative and will impact almost everyone who travels to, or through,

n FROM BRISTOL CENTRAL'S MP

Bristol city centre. Broadmead is changing as shopping patterns evolve. Empty shops and department stores can be used for new housing and associated infrastructure.

“A vision for Broadmead is set out in the Bristol City Centre Development and Delivery Plan. This consultation focuses on the transport and movement elements that would support this vision and the aspiration for a new rapid transit route. We want to make sure we get these far-reaching plans right for the city.”

Several redevelopment projects are taking place around Broadmead in the next few years. The Galleries will be replaced with 450 flats, community spaces, shops, a 250-bed hotel and student flats with 750 beds. The Debenhams department store will be replaced with 500 apartments, and the Premier Inn on the Bearpit replaced with flats for 422 students.

The City Centre Transport Changes project is funded by the government through the City Region Sustainable Transport Settlement. This money can only be used by the council to improve transport infrastructure, and not for =other services.

The consultation is at ask.bristol.gov.uk By Alex Seabrook, Local Democracy Reporting Service

Coming together to reject hate

IT has been an incredibly difficult couple of weeks in Bristol, with a rise in coordinated violence and intimidation from the far right. Although racism and Islamophobia are daily issues in our communities, the recent surge in violence has created a new level of fear. There is no place in Bristol for Islamophobia, violence, or the far right. Our city has shown its strength by coming together to reject hate. I want to extend my deepest thanks to everyone who worked tirelessly to stand up and protect our community. While Parliament takes a break over summer, I am really looking forward to spending more time in Bristol and meeting with local groups and residents.

Over the next few

weeks, I plan to visit Aid Box Community, a charity founded in response to the ongoing refugee crisis. While Aid Box provides a vital service to people who arrive in the country with nothing, their work can’t continue without a new premises.

The charity is now urgently seeking a new space to continue their essential work. To learn more about the free services they provide or to find out how you can support their efforts to find a new location, please visit their website through the link below: https:// www.aidboxcommunity.co.uk/

Over the past month I have heard from many of you who are concerned about the prison sentence for Gaie Delap. Gaie was one of the environmental non-violent protesters who was

recently jailed for 20 months, a disproportionate sentence for peaceful protest. I have written to the Home Secretary asking for a review of Gaie’s case.

We have also seen a large number of people needing assistance with visa applications and asylum claims. We have been assisting them as much as possible, but it is clear that not enough safe routes exist and we need reform of the asylum and immigration system. Now more than ever we must make sure that people coming to our country are treated with the dignity and respect we all deserve.

If you need assistance with issues such as asylum or immigration, housing or welfare benefits, please don't hesitate to contact me and my team.

Carla Denyer writes for the Voice

Please do contact me if you have any concerns or anything you'd like to make me aware of by emailing me at carla.denyer@greenparty. org.uk, or by writing to me at the House of Commons, London SW1A 0AA.

HORFIELD ORGANIC COMMUNITY ORCHARD

HORFIELD Organic Community Orchard (HOCO) has plots on a large allotment site that borders Bishopston, Horfield, Henleaze, and Westbury Park. At this time of year other plot holders often stop to ask us: “How’s the crop looking?” No two seasons are the same. It’s only as we pick the fruit, and either eat it, or store it for later – that we find

out the answers to that question. So far, we’ve enjoyed lush plums, brisk-tasting apples, and plump cobnuts.

Humans aren’t the only creatures with a taste for fruit. Pigeons, magpies, squirrels and foxes are well adapted to city life, and can be greedy feeders. They hunger for fruit at all stages of growth – from the barely pollinated to the perfectly ripe. We’ve noticed less bug life in the orchard this year. Pesky pests have been scarce, but there are also fewer friendly pollinators and beneficial insects. Aphids, Apple sawfly and Pear midge were not much bother, and the pink Plum moth grub has been less troublesome than usual. The joy of ‘perfect’ fruit is tainted by the knowledge that a lack of creepycrawlies is a problem for other creatures who dine on them. What happens to life on earth if there are no insects?

Two fruit foes are having a good year. The Apple ermine moth was easy to spot at midsummer when trees were covered in gothy shrouds of webbing. As I write, the Codling moth is emerging. The grub tunnels through the flesh of apples and pears - leaving behind a sticky trail of frass (insect poo). This burrowing habit damages fruit, causing it to rot, and then drop from the tree, often before it is fully ripe. Codling moth can afflict more than half of the potential crop! We know that populations of moth-munching bats and song birds have crashed in line with the decline of insects. We hope our nature-friendly growing methods and re-wilding areas will help nurture more of these helpers in our urban orchard ecosystem.

HOCO is home to many kinds of fruit tree – apple, pear, plum, medlar and nuts – and rich in different varieties of each. Diversity is the best insurance for a good-enough harvest – and we are lucky to have the space to grow like this. There is always something to harvest, whatever the conditions or challenges. All are welcome to celebrate and sample fruit from this year’s apple harvest at Apple Day, Sunday 20 October, 2-4pm. Fancy growing your own? Get in touch to pre-order apple trees to buy on the day: www. community-orchard.org.uk

Words by Shannon Smith aka The Apple Tree Lady Photograph by Jamie Carstairs

Tydeman's Early Worcester apples are a popular crop

Thanks, blood donors, for gift of sight

A WOMAN who receives eye drops made from blood has met and thanked two men whose donations were used for her treatment.

Carolyn Frost, 75, who lives near Thornbury, receives eye drops made from the plasma in human blood because she can’t produce her own tears due to severe dry eye.

She met donor Martin Wilson, 64, of Westbury-on-Trym, and Martin Darwin, from Newton-le-Willows near Warrington, at the Bristol Blood Donor Centre.

Carolyn used the meeting to help appeal for blood donors. She told the two men: “I am so grateful to you both. It’s been amazing, and fascinating to learn about the whole process. I would just urge people to give blood.”

Carolyn, a married mother of three with seven grandchildren, has had other treatments including steroids since childhood. She started on the NHSBT eye drops around a year ago.

“Severe dry eye is a horrible thing to have,” she said. “I can feel it burning hot sometimes. My eyes get hot, red and uncomfortable. There’s a scratchy feeling and my vision is quite blurred. It becomes painful to use your eyes. It’s quite disabling. I really

struggle to see. It’s amazing they can use blood to make eye drops.”

Martin Wilson is a retired Rolls-Royce engineer who has donated blood about 80 times.

He said: “It was an absolute pleasure to meet Carolyn. It’s good to give blood but it’s so nice to meet someone who has received your blood directly.”

Martin Darwin, renewable energy consultant, has donated nearly 60 times.

The married dad of two said: “It’s been an amazing experience to meet Carolyn.

“It’s great to donate but to actually meet a recipient of your own blood and understand how much difference they think it has made to their life is incredible.”

Dr Akila Chandrasekar, consultant in transplant medicine at NHS Blood and Transplant said that while serum eye drops could sometimes be made from the patient’s own blood, about 80% of those who need this treatment rely on blood from volunteer donations.

“Each donation normally provides enough serum eye drops to last up to three to four months.

“Blood is complex can be used in many ways. We always need new donors.”

Carolyn with Martin Wilson, left, and Martin Darwin at the blood donor centre

n MESSAGE FROM POLICE AND CRIME COMMISSIONER

Violent few do not represent us

THE recent riots we witnessed nationally were deeply troubling.

We saw a small but violent group instil fear in our communities and bring chaos and disorder to our streets.

Since that Saturday night we have seen disruption reverberate across our area.

What took place was not a protest: what we witnessed were criminal acts, plain and simple.

These actions do not reflect the values of the Avon and Somerset area. We are known for our strong, diverse and vibrant community, where people from all walks of life live peacefully alongside one another.

The scenes we witnessed are a stark reminder of how a few can disrupt the harmony that so many work hard to maintain.

I want to extend my deepest gratitude to the police officers who were on the front lines, displaying professionalism and courage in the face of direct attacks aimed at them

individually.

Their dedication to protecting the public and maintaining order, while distinguishing between legitimate protest and criminal behaviour, is commendable.

The individuals involved are now facing the consequences of their decisions, with the whole criminal justice system recognising the need to respond quickly and firmly.

It is essential that we send a clear message that such behaviour will not be tolerated and that those who engage in violence and disorder will be held accountable.

No one should feel they cannot live their lives as normal, living in fear of Islamophobic or racist attacks.

I want to reassure our residents that I will continue to engage with our diverse communities to ensure everyone feels safe and supported.

I also encourage anyone who is the target of attacks or witnesses them to report them to the police or Crimestoppers.

Our response to those that want

to divide us should be to find new ways to develop our understanding of each other and create connections, and build on existing work to bring people together.

We must focus on what kind of place we want Avon and Somerset to be.

I am deeply committed to using my role to achieve real, tangible outcomes.

One way I will do this is by developing a police and crime plan to guide policing priorities and strategies over the next five years.

I have spent the past few months listening to people across our area, and identified five key priorities that reflect your concerns: strengthening neighbourhood policing, reducing violent crime, preventing crime, supporting victims, and improving the standards of policing.

Your input is crucial in shaping this plan: you are best placed to speak about the needs and concerns of your area and identify changes that will really make a difference.

With Police and Crime Commissioner Clare Moody

It’s important to me that your voices are heard, which is why I hope you will participate in a consultation underway until October 28.

The feedback I receive will directly influence how the issues that matter most to you are tackled.

You can get involved via my website at tinyurl.com/rxzaj6cw, where there is an online survey and details of public forum meetings.

If you are not online you can contact 01278 646188 for details of how to participate.

n NEWS

Patient hotel 'will be home from home'

BRISTOL Children’s Hospital wants to build a “patient hotel” for children receiving longterm medical care and their parents.

The four-storey building behind the Cots for Tots House on Southwell Street, next to St Michael’s Hospital on St Michael’s Hill, is planned as a halfway house between acute hospital care and home.

The new facility will include 12 ensuite bedrooms, with a communal kitchen, laundry and lounge areas, as well as a therapy and gym space.

It will be used by families from Wiltshire, Devon, Cornwall, Somerset, South Wales whose children require lengthy treatment. They will stay in the patient hotel while the children receive outpatient treatment, thus freeing up beds in the hospital.

The project is being funded via the hospital charity, the Grand Appeal, which says the scheme has been made possible thanks to the support of the Bristol-based Yogscast and the Jingle Jam foundation.

Planning documents submitted to Bristol

How the facility could look

City Council say: “This development will be the first in the UK in a new generation of health facilities for children which is funded through private charity investment. With NHS waiting lists topping 7 million people nationally, the patient hotel will help by providing additional rooms for non-acute patients who are able to be treated close to the hospital as outpatients.

Could you help Poppy Appeal?

THE Royal British Legion is appealing for new volunteers to help run its annual Poppy Appeal in Bishopston and Horfield.

The charity, which organises the Poppy Appeal every October and November, relies on more than 3,500 volunteers across the UK each year.

The RBL says all volunteers will be fully trained and the role can help people develop skills such as public speaking and building confidence, as well as supporting people in the armed forces who have served and sacrificed.

Anyone interested in finding out more about being a volunteer can contact the Royal British Legion on a dedicated helpline 0345 845 1945, or online at rbl.org.uk/ poppyappealvolunteer.

Louise Dolen, Poppy Appeal manager in Bristol and south Gloucestershire, said that as well as seeking poppy sellers, she was looking for people to act as appeal organisers – distributing poppy boxes, organising volunteer teams and counting money.

The Royal British Legion’s Poppy Appeal was first held in the aftermath of the First World War in 1921, where red silk poppies were sold, raising over £106,000.

Today the Royal British Legion’s Poppy Appeal is the charity’s biggest fundraising campaign and takes place every year in the run up to Armistice Day and Remembrance Sunday.

This year’s Remembrance poppy has been given a make-over and will now be plastic-free and easily recycled. The new poppies will be sold alongside stock of the original poppy.

“The emphasis will be on keeping the patients out of the hospital environment by being able to stay close to the hospital with their parents, encouraging their independence and often adapting to a new way of life before returning home. Throughout England approximately 10 per cent of hospital beds are taken up by patients who are well enough to go home after treatment.

“In Scandinavian countries, that figure is less than three per cent as they provide patient hotel-type facilities as part of their whole health ecosystem. Since embarking on a major reform of its inpatient facilities in 2007, Denmark has reduced inpatient bed days by one fifth whilst increasing outpatient services by 50 per cent.”

The Bristol Children’s Hospital provides treatment and care to over 100,000 children from across the South West and South Wales each year. The hospital is a centre for excellence for treating conditions such as cancer, burns, neurosurgery and epilepsy.

Phoebe plans 3,000km trek to help hospice

A 3000km hike spanning the length of New Zealand is the formidable challenge facing Phoebe Hastings and her friend, Ross, to raise funds for St Peter’s Hospice.

Phoebe’s father, Chris, from Bishopston, received incredible care from the hospice in July 2023 before he died.

The Te Araroa trail runs from the North to the South Island and, starting this November, Phoebe and Ross expect it to take around five months to complete

Phoebe,25, who recently graduated from Glasgow University, said: “Ross and I have been friends since our first semester of university and throughout my Dad's illness and since his death, he has been such an incredible support to me. After Ross graduated he moved away to Australia, where he was inspired by a friend he’d met who had completed the Te Araroa trail.

“When Ross suggested we attempted this together, it became a real motivator and focus at an extremely difficult time. The trip is to fundraise for SPH for the amazing care they provide, but also as an opportunity for some healing - a reminder to enjoy life while you can. My Dad always lived his life to the fullest and, at the risk of sounding cheesy, it's a way to honour that.

“What we expect from the trek is lots of blisters! Both of us are aware of what a huge challenge this will be as we have never done anything like this before. We are both outdoorsy people and love camping and hiking. To train we are both hitting the gym a lot and going out on hikes with heavy rucksacks, as well as camping trips.

“It is a little difficult to do the type of training we need because we both live and work in the city, but we are getting there. We are also hoping that this challenge will give us a bit of a reset and a boost. It's not very often that you get an opportunity to just focus on each day and literally put one foot in front of the other.”

The route of the trip goes from Cape Reinga, on the North Island, to Bluff in the south. Walking southbound means that the weather will be warmer once on the South Island, while the flatter terrain of the North Island, with more towns to top up supplies, will ease the pair into the trek. They plan to use gps apps and the official Te Araroa website for navigation and updates.

St Peter’s Hospice community fundraising manager Sophie Cullinane said: "We're so thankful to Ross and Phoebe who are taking on this epic challenge in memory of Phoebe's father. Their fundraising will help support other patients and their families who need our specialist care. We lookforward

to receiving updates during their challenge, and we wish them luck on their adventure!"

Phoebe and Ross would be grateful for any sponsorship for their hiking gear and have set a fundraising target of £1000. To support their expedition, please go to https://www.justgiving. com/page/trailblazingforchris

Phoebe in training for her New Zealand adventure

Ross and Phoebe

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Resolving matters outside of court

Katie Andrews, Trainee Solicitor at AMD Solicitors explains the importance of Non-Court Dispute Resolution and the introduction of Form FM5

Recent changes to the Family Procedure Rules in respect of Non-Court Dispute Resolution (NCDR) came into effect on 29 April 2024. Changes were made to encourage the use of NCDR to assist more Family matters to settle outside of Court.

As a part of the amended rules, it is now mandatory for the parties to complete Form FM5 in private law children proceedings and financial remedy proceedings. The form allows the parties to set out their position on NCDR and must be submitted to the Court at least 7 working days prior to the first hearing in a matter. Form FM5 encourages the use of NCDR and allows the parties to explain their position on if, and when, this has taken place.

If you have not attended any NCDR prior to your first hearing, form FM5 asks you to set out why this has not happened and whether any exemptions apply, such as domestic abuse or where there are child protection concerns.

The implementation of these changes has given Courts a new duty to encourage parties to undertake at least one form of NCDR prior to the first hearing. Judges now have the power to adjourn the matter, if there is appropriate time, to ensure the parties have the opportunity to try a method of NCDR.

Whilst the Judge is not able to enforce the parties to attend NCDR, if the parties refuse to do so it can be taken in to consideration by the Judge when considering whether to make a costs Order. Therefore, not attending NCDR could put you at risk of cost implications.

The most common method of NCDR is mediation and many clients find this to be a useful tool in negotiating points of dispute. You may find it beneficial to seek legal advice alongside mediation, particularly before agreeing to, or making any offers. Our family department are well experienced in supporting and assisting clients through their mediation journey. We can provide legal advice alongside mediation to help guide you through the process and offer advice on any suggested offers.

A further method of NCDR is collaborative law. Collaborative law involves joint meetings between both parties, where each party will have their lawyer present. During these meetings financial disclosure will take place and financial options can be considered. This method supports a more transparent approach and encourages the parties to re -

solve their issues in an open and amicable way. Jo Morris, Head of our Family Department, is an experienced collaborative lawyer and would be happy to discuss this option further with you during an initial consultation. Other methods of NCDR include arbitration and private financial dispute resolution hearings. If you would like to know more about NCDR, please contact us to arrange an initial consultation with one of our team and we would be happy to assist you.

Action means quicker diagnostic tests

ALMOST 6,500 people have benefited from diagnostic tests, scans and procedures at the North Bristol Community Diagnostic Centre since it opened in April.

The facility at Cribbs Causeway is run as a partnership between North Bristol NHS Trust and independent healthcare provider InHealth, to help more people access diagnostic services quickly and outside of a hospital setting.

When the permanent facility opens this month, even more people will be able to have tests

on site, rather than in mobile facilities.

The centre will be one of the largest of its kind in the UK and the biggest ever built by InHealth. It will provide services including: Endoscopy, CT, MRI, plain film X-ray, ultrasound imaging, Echocardiograms and respiratory tests.

Community Diagnostic Centres are part of a national initiative to increase access to tests and procedures. The Government is investing £2.3 billion in opening 160 CDCs across the country by 2025.

Tim Whittlestone, North Bristol NHS Trust chief medical officer, said: “We have already seen tremendous benefits for our patients since the Community Diagnostic Centre opened in April. Moving into the permanent building will increase the number of scans and procedures we can offer to people so that they can have easy access to tests and know what treatment options might be available to them.”

Dr Joanne Medhurst, chief medical officer at NHS Bristol, North Somerset and South

Gloucestershire Integrated Care Board, said: “The development of community diagnostic centres in the area is a significant step forward in enhancing healthcare accessibility and efficiency for our local people and reflects our commitment to providing high-quality, timely diagnostic services.

Geoff Searle, InHealth chief executive officer, said: “We have been eagerly awaiting the opening of the permanent CDC at North Bristol and to see it now in its final stages is a real milestone.”

£49m surgical centre is taking shape

THE external structure of the new £49.9 million Elective Centre at Southmead Hospital has now been completed.

More than 220 modules have been lifted into place by a crane over six weeks to create the building.

The centre is a joint project between North Bristol NHS Trust and University Hospitals Bristol and Weston NHS Foundation Trust (UHBW), supported by Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire (BNSSG) Integrated Care Board.

It will open in spring 2025, enabling up to 6,500 additional operations to be carried out across Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire every year.

The next steps for the building are to carry out the internal works. This includes installing steelwork to strengthen the building, pouring concrete to create the internal floors and stairs and installing internal partitions to create the rooms.

Once the internal building work is completed, work will begin on installing new ‘state of the art’ operating theatres and supporting clinical facilities.

NBT and UHBW joint chief executive Maria Kane said: “It has been amazing to see the Elective Centre take shape over the last couple of months.

HEALTH FAIR INVITATION

“The additional surgical capacity the building will provide will have a significant impact on the number of patients we can treat, and we cannot wait to see it completed over the coming months.

“Thank you to our neighbours and patients for your patience during these works, we hope you are as excited about this project as we are.”

UHBW interim chief executive, Stuart Walker, said: “Working closely together for the benefit of our patients and populations is at the heart of the NBT and UHBW Joint Clinical Strategy.

"Reaching this important milestone in the construction of the new elective centre

NORTH Bristol NHS Trust will be holding a Health Fair and Annual Public Meeting on September 26 from 5 - 8pm at the Learning and Research Building, Southmead Hospital. Guests will have the opportunity to explore the extensive range of services provided by NBT and learn about local health initiatives aimed at improving well-being.

The Annual Public Meeting from 6.30-8pm will include a comprehensive review of the past year’s achievements, a detailed financial overview and insights into the future plans of NBT. To register, email: nbtcommunications@nbt.nhs.uk

takes us a step closer to realising our shared vision of delivering seamless, high quality, equitable and sustainable care across Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire, providing sustainable solutions for elective care."

David Jarrett, chief delivery officer at the ICB, said: “It’s really exciting to see this stateof-the-art elective centre take shape, moving us closer to providing significant capacity to deliver more planned care for people across the area.

“This collaborative project underlines our health and care system’s commitment to delivering efficient and effective patient centre care that is sustainable for the future.”

Designed and built by healthcare construction specialists, Darwin Group, the company’s deputy CEO Jim Pierce, said, “We are incredibly proud to work as partners to design and construct this Elective Centre at Southmead Hospital.

“The projects we deliver help to transform patient and staff experiences and improve healthcare outcomes for tens of thousands of people every year.

“It’s always great to see work and to hear firsthand about the impact that the facility will have on the local community, we are very much looking forward to the opening of the centre.”

MAKING THE NHS GREENER

BRISTOL Royal Hospital for Children (BRHC) has become the first paediatric NHS hospital to install equipment that captures the waste gases usually released into the atmosphere when patients are anaesthetised.

Every hour of surgery performed releases carbon dioxide with the same impact on the environment as driving a car five to 10km.

Now University Hospitals Bristol and Weston NHS Foundation Trust’s (UHBW) has invested in volatile capture chambers for two operating theatres, which is helping reduce the hospital's carbon footprint.

n FROM YOUR COUNCILLORS

Redland: Martin Fodor and Fi Hance (Green Party)

Defending our City of Sanctuary

We’re writing this after major incidents in the city. Firstly aggressive right wing extremists marched on a hotel housing asylum seekers, and there were threats to mosques and people of colour. The response to these intimidating incidents showed the best of Bristol and the threats were resisted by residents supported by Green councillors forming a human shield until police were present. When the far right disturbances were anticipated in Bristol in August Green councillors were in touch with mosques and relevant businesses and communities to support and help with security concerns. Members of our group were around through the day and on hand for those who needed it. Others helped with the clear up the next day. We believe that by working together hate cannot win here.

The city’s political leaders issued a joint statement saying violence and harassment towards any of the diverse communities that make up our city has no place in our democracy, and will not be tolerated. We stand against all forms of hate towards any community and stand in solidarity with those who have been affected.

The violent scenes were instigated by a few individuals who chose to express their views through fear and intimidation. This does not reflect our values as a city and has been incredibly distressing for many vulnerable groups.

We thank the emergency services, our community partners and council teams for their efforts to maintain public safety and respond to the need of those who required support. Their efforts ensured the events were contained and that communities continue to be supported.

Peaceful protest is in contrast a cornerstone of our democracy. The massive turn out including Greens to defy further threats and to protect Old Market subsequently show the best of Bristol and that far right hate is not welcome here.

We support the peaceful sharing of views within the law and the right to demonstrate opinions in a way that respects public

safety. Our city is a place to discuss and debate views constructively, inclusively and respectfully, and where diversity is valued.

Budget shortfall warning

\When the Mayor presented his budget for the current municipal year Greens warned that it wasn’t realistic and we refused to vote for it. It passed as a technically ‘balanced budget’ as required in law. We know that substantial ‘savings’ were being carried forward from the previous financial year as the promised reductions hadn’t been made in budgets. New larger savings were proposed to ‘balance’ the coming year’s spending with all forms of income in the face of spiralling costs and shrinking government support after years of austerity and rising social care and other costs.

Now the figures for the first few months of the new municipal year are public we can see costs are £millions over what was budgeted and drastic action will be needed to get spending back in line. Defending local services and avoiding government imposed ‘bankrupcy’ [centrally imposed cuts] is a key priority, otherwise there will be budgets slashed, assets sold, and council tax increases like Birmingham council. Bristol isn’t in the worst third of councils fortunately but we know the budget situation is dire and needs drastic action. The new government has made clear it doesn’t prioritise more finding for local government. That means further service savings are likely. Greens have been very clear that public services need adequate spending and that funds would be available if a modest wealth tax was collected from those most able to pay.

Progress with trade waste bins

We previously reported how a council project is using powers to ensure trade waste is presented correctly and in a timely way on high streets, rather than accumulate on streets where it can attract flytipping. Each business is responsible for its own waste and needs to make suitable

arrangements. We met some traders and the council has been encouraging waste companies to offer an appropriate service.

This initiative has had a dramatic and positive effect on the Promenade on Gloucester Road and we've had positive feedback from residents about the reduction in the number of bins on the pavement.

There's still more to do and we'd like to see the next step being to work with landlords and managers of flats and their tenants to ensure bins and boxes get stored correctly too.

Promoting better public involvement

We're keen to ensure residents and groups get more of a chance to use public forum in each council meeting to make statements or ask questions on any topic relevant to the council. We've asked for better information about how residents can have their say at council meetings and better signposting of which responsibilities each meeting has so that people can attend the right committee or the Full Council if they wish. By attending the correct meeting there's a better chance to respond to written replies and ask follow up questions and find the right officers present to provide detailed factual responses. Some issues are more political however under the council's new committee system of governance it's now up to all nine members of each cross party committee if major decisions are needed. Please do get in touch if you would like any advice or support with getting involved with Council processes.

Landlord licensing

New arrangements for licensing houses in multiple occupation [HMOs] are now applicable in the city. There's already a licensing scheme for larger HMOs with five or more unrelated people sharing facilities in a house. Now an 'additional licensing scheme' has been added so landlords need to register when three or four people area sharing the same house in smaller HMOs.

Thousands of landlords, letting and managing agents and charities offering these types of property have been contacted. The deadline for those cover by this scheme is November 5th.

Note that landlord licensing of HMOs is separate from the need for planning applications and the policies that apply to HMOs when buildings have their use changed in planning terms. We do hope that the licensing scheme does mean HMOs will be safer and fit for occupancy in future. Further details are available from the private sector housing team in the council.

Traders hospitality licensing scheme

\When traders want to put tables and chairs or planters on the pavement they have to apply and get a license. This covers the hours, number of places, and location being used. We do regularly review the applications made in our ward and we know that the use of pavements for service can affect some residents. The details of the new scheme being consulted are on the council Ask Bristol website. Do look there for details.

Planning service delays

We've reported before on how the recruitment freeze and loss of staff affected planning in the city. This resulted in extremely long waits for officers to be allocated to assess cases and for decisions to be made. The result was that the government put the council in special measures. We're glad to see that the response has been to reduce the backlog in allocating officers and that the waits are coming down. Unfortunately this has meant some anomalies where older cases are still stuck while newer cases get some attention faster. We're supporting some residents and applicants who have been affected by this.

Fi: Cllr.fi.hance@bristol.gov.uk.

Martin: Cllr.martin.fodor@bristol.gov.uk

Fi: 0117 3534720. Martin 0788 4736101 Facebook.com/cllrmartin.fodor or / cllrfi.hance

n FROM YOUR COUNCILLORS

Bishopston & Ashley Down: Emma Edwards and James Crawford (Green Party)

Ashley Down srain station news

We would like to update residents on the opening of the new Ashley Down Station, and have met with officers for the latest update. The station has been built, but there are still some minor works ongoing and some snagging issues to be resolved over the next few weeks. Following completion of the station works, a robust process of testing and safety checks has been undertaken, the results of which are currently being reviewed by the Office of Rail and Road. Before the station can open for passenger services the Office of Rail and Road needs to grant authorisation that it can enter into service which demonstrates that the station meets the required standards, however the project team are hopeful that this process will conclude over the coming weeks, enabling us to open the station in late September. Station gateway access improvement works are nearing the final stages and in the coming weeks the loading bay, Disabled parking bays and double yellow lines with relevant signage will be installed on Station Road as

consulted on and agreed through the Traffic Regulation Order process.

We can also let cyclists know that The Concorde Way and Station Lane closure is due to end on 30th September 2024, however the council are hoping to re-open in advance of the closure end date.

Any further questions, please get in touch.

The Memorial Ground

Emma and James have attended residents' meetings held by Bristol Rovers to discuss the plans of the Memorial Ground to expand in the future, as well as the implementation of the transport plan as agreed on by the planning conditions for the South Stand last year. We also want to help the club make the most of any transport plans, including talking to local bus companies and creating better signage and stewarding, and are pleased to hear that the new travel plans are now live on their website. We were also delighted with the recent family fun day held at the Memorial and we look forward to more resident engagement in the future.

Issues with Bristol Waste

We have been extremely concerned by the amount of residents in the ward who have been experiencing missed waste and recycling collections. We have learned that this has been a city-wide issue and one caused by Bristol Waste decommissioning some trucks in an effort to save money. We have been in talks with Bristol Waste who have now realised the scale of the issues that this has caused and have now re-instated the trucks. We hope normal service has resumed, but as always, if collections are missed, please do report directly to Bristol Waste via their website, and if the problem persists then get in touch with Emma and James.

The Ardagh

James attended the Ardagh community market where they have begun consulting local residents on what they would like to see for the future of the site. They have engaged with an architect named Then Now When to help them create a masterplan, and it was great to see

residents of all ages engaged with some fantastic ideas and drawings. The community market was also great with lots of local vendors and food options. The market takes place on the 2nd Saturday of every month from 10-3. Emma has been talking to the parks department about finding ways to secure the common against people driving onto it. The Parks officers are looking into a solution involving mounding around the edges, and we are supporting them in securing funding for this. Emma also attended the Playdays event at the Ardagh which was very successful and featured a range of community engagement and activities. We look forward to hearing about the next stages of their plans.

Ralph and Downend Road

We have been in touch with officers giving feedback on the changes to traffic numbers since the reopening of Muller road. We have been assured that traffic on Downend Road and Ralph Road is being monitored and once the data has been collected, we will be meeting again to discuss future plans and mitigations.

Garden House

bishopstonvoice

n A-LEVELS SUCCESSES

CLIFTON COLLEGE

TWO students from Clifton College are off to universities in the US. Clemmie planning to major in Chemistry at Princeton and Izzy majoring in Psychology with the Morehead-Cain Scholarship at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Clemmie leaves for America this Saturday, and Izzy is off to New Zealand in September to take a well-earned gap year.

Poppy achieved three A*s in Maths, Chemistry and Physics and is going on to Oxford University to study Chemistry. They were among a strong cohort who received A-level and BTEC results.

September,

Nick Mills, Head of Sixth Form, said, “It’s wonderful to see our students fulfilling their aspirations, with the vast majority now heading to their chosen universities to embark upon a wide range of courses. It’s also great to see a record number of students winning places at leading universities overseas, notably in the US. Congratulations to all our leavers. I wish them all the best.”

BADMINTON

A-level students at Badminton had smuch to celebrate with over 60% achieving A/A* in three subjects, enabling over 80% to secure their first-choice university.

The school are proud of many outstanding achievements; Tammy secured 4 A* and will study Medicine at King’s College London. Sally, who achieved 3 A*, will study Physics at Imperial College. Ruth also achieved 4 A* and will go to the University of Warwick to study Mathematics. Angharad has a won a place at Oxford to read Geography and Alice has secured her place at Cambridge to read Law. Alice also gained full marks in Paper 1 and only dropped two marks in Paper 2 of her A Level English.

Students from the Class of 2024 at Badminton will be off to study a huge range of exciting courses both in the UK and overseas, ranging from Veterinary Science, Medicine and Actuarial Science to Urban Planning, Music and Cyber Security.

Results day is also a chance to reflect on what students achieved beyond the classroom. Head Girl, Yijing, who is off to Warwick to study Law, made an outstanding contribution to the musical life of the school and was a keen participant in many local music festivals.

Headteacher Jessica Mile said: “This year’s cohort are the first I’ve really got to know since taking over as Head at Badminton 15 months ago. They are an impressive group who have contributed to the wider school community whilst succeeding academically. I look forward to seeing where their journey takes them as they have already shown they have the motivation and ability to succeed."

REDMAIDS' HIGH

MORE than half the grades gained by Redmaids’ High students at A-level were A* or A, significantly higher than the national average of 28%, with 79% of grades achieved at A*-B, and 94% A*-C.

Courses chosen by the cohort as next steps includes Medicine, Physics, International Social & Public Policy, TV and Film Production, Neuroscience and Ancient History & Classical Archaeology.

More students than ever are looking forward to studying degrees with a focus on the environment while several students are flourishing in the Performing Arts.

Olivia has been offered a degree apprenticeship studying Computer Science at Jaguar, and former Head Girl Muznah will be travelling to Somalia as part of her gap year.

Director of Sixth Form, Dr Alice England, said, “I am incredibly proud of the students in this year group and their tremendous dedication and effort over the past two years."

QEH

QEH saw 51% of all grades at A* or A, with 77% A* to B.

Head, Rupert Heathcote, said, “It was fantastic to welcome students and parents to school to celebrate their achievements. The school was filled with great excitement and celebration as results were collected.

This year’s outstanding cohort includes both School Captains, Ed and Anastasia, who achieved straight A and A* grades. They have led by example, both academically and as exemplary role models. In addition, all of Oxbridge candidates have secured their places, as have all those hoping to study medicine and veterinary science. Over 20% of students achieved straight A*/A grades.

BRISTOL GRAMMAR SCHOOL

ONE of the largest A-level cohorts in Bristol Grammar School achieved outstanding A-level results. 53% of the almost 500 exams taken by BGS students were awarded one of the top two grades. Over a third of students achieved three or more A*/A grades, with 15 of them securing three or more A* grades.

Joe, who earned four A* grades in Maths, Further Maths, Economics, and Geography, will now go on to St John’s College, Cambridge to study Economics, one of six BGS students heading to Oxford or Cambridge this year. He will be joined at Cambridge by Zoey who will study Natural Sciences after gaining five A* grades i).

Along with a number of pupils who have been at BGS since Reception – the first such cohort since the opening of our Infant section in 2010 – this year’s A Level cohort also includes 50 students who joined BGS at Sixth Form.

Jaideep Barot, Head of Bristol Grammar School said: “We’re so proud of all our students for their hard work and commitment, not just to their studies, but to all that BGS has to offer."

Reception – Sixth Form Open Morning

Saturday 28th September

New special school is all set to open

A NEW special school is opening this month in Coombe Dingle.

It has been built on the site of the former Sea Mills Infant School and will help address the shortage of places in Bristol for children with additional needs.

The school will be run by the North Star Academy Trust and will be for children aged seven to 16 who have social, emotional and mental health needs. It will open with 16 children in two Key Stage 2 classes and will grow to 85 pupils by September 2026.

The Department for Education and Bristol City Council have been working with the trust to develop North Star 265°.

The architects, DKA, say they have worked to integrate the two-storey building into the special character of the Sea Mills garden suburb conservation area site.

The school will have specialist teaching areas for food technology, construction skills, science and art, an all-weather

How the new school is set to look

pitch and a games court.

Headteacher Rob Skelton said the staff team was keen to get started.

“Our school has a unique

role within education in helping our students to navigate towards their next step in education,” he said.

“Students will often arrive at

our school having experienced challenges within learning environments and we aim to deliver a high-quality education that supports children who have been, or are at risk of, permanent exclusion from mainstream schools.

“Our role at NS265° is to offer a comprehensive alternative learning provision within Bristol which re-engages students in learning, helping them to experience success and to build on that to reinvigorate their ambitions. We provide a highly relevant curriculum which focuses on identifying where students need support and quickly putting the interventions in place to ensure children make accelerated progress.

"As well as this, many students need support to build effective relationships with peers and staff. Through our excellent facilities and staff, we provide flexible and bespoke provisions depending on students' needs.”

Opportunity follows

Sixth Form Open Evening

Friday 11th October

badmintonschool.co.uk

Charity concert combines art and music

A BRISTOL school hosted a summer concert by one of the city’s premiere symphony orchestras to raise money for Children’s Hospice South West (CHSW).

The New Bristol Sinfonia Orchestra wowed the crowds with its ‘Painting a Picture’ musical performance at Redmaids’ School in Westburyon-Trym.

The evening began with a picnic in the grounds of the school.

During the concert, artist in residence Rob Townley created colourful abstract paintings to iconic musical pieces such as Mendelssohn's ‘Hebrides Overture’ and Mussorgskys ‘Pictures at an Exhibition’.

There was also a silent auction and a raffle.

Two of Rob’s pieces of work were included in the silent auction and raffle tickets were

sold to win a hamper of items donated by local businesses.

The hamper included an abundance of gifts donated by local businesses including goodies from Tesco Westburyon-Trym, a month’s membership to The Pauline Quirke Academy for performing arts and a two

week pass for David Lloyd, Westbury on Trym.

There was also a Grupo Lounge gift voucher, a £10 voucher from ‘We Make Bristol’ and tickets to the orchestra’s next concert in November.

The evening raised £1170 for Children’s Hospice South West.

This is the first time the orchestra has raised money for charity at one of its concerts.

Orchestra bassoonist Diane Lee said: “‘Hearing the news of how much we were able to raise filled me with real joy and gladness - what a fabulous sum of money for such a wonderful charity.”

Children’s Hospice South West Area Fundraiser Amanda Leonard said: “Children’s Hospice South West exists to make the most of the lives of children and young people with life limiting conditions.

“On behalf of the families that are supported by the Children’s Hospice South West and our Charlton Farm hospice in Wraxall, we are truly grateful to the New Bristol Sinfonia for choosing to support us.

“This was a wonderful family event that included such creativity and warmth."

Open events for Cathedral Schools Trust secondary schools

St Katherine’s School, Ham Green, North Somerset, BS20 0HU

Thursday 26th September

stkaths.org.uk/admissions

Trinity Academy, Romney Avenue, Bristol, BS7 9BY

Thursday 19th September

Tuesday 24th September

Music Aptitude Test

Saturday 28th September

trinityacademybristol.org/admissions

Bristol Cathedral Choir School, College Square, Bristol, BS1 5TS

Thursday 19th September

Thursday 26th September

Music Aptitude Test

Saturday 28th September bccs.bristol.sch.uk/admissions

Ofsted praises community learning team

BRISTOL City Council’s Employment, Skills and Lifelong Learning Service (ESL) has been rated as Good by Ofsted, with the behaviour and attitudes of learners rated as Outstanding.

Inspectors visited Community Learning and On Site Bristol provision across the city over several days in May. These services provide training for about 320 apprentices and 2,200 adult learners.

Chair of the Economy and Skills Committee Councillor Andrew Brown said: "We are thrilled to receive such a positive Ofsted inspection.

“We know that the majority of ESL adult learners live in socially and economically deprived areas of Bristol and we will continue to build on this success to ensure that every learner has the opportunity to reach their full potential. I would like to pay tribute to all the staff involved in delivering the service and earning this rating."

Inspectors noted:

• Teaching and training staff work very closely with and know their learners well, thoughtfully accommodating any additional learning needs.

• ESL staff have devised curriculums

which best meet the needs of the Bristol communities they work in and the employers they work with, attracting disadvantaged and disaffected learners into learning.

• Senior staff and managers work very effectively to remove any barriers which prevent learners in the city from taking part in learning and achieving qualifications.

• Courses are provided at times that are most convenient for learners - on several courses, mothers attend their lessons only because senior staff have provided crèche facilities.

Head of Service Jane Taylor said: “It is fantastic that Ofsted have recognised the many strengths of our community learning and apprenticeship provision. Every member of staff goes the extra mile to provide great learning opportunities that change lives. Learners receive great support and achieve outstanding behaviours and attitudes to learning. “

A spokesperson for the City of Bristol College said: “At the City of Bristol College we deliver construction apprenticeships on behalf of Bristol City Council’s Employment, Skills and Lifelong Learning Service and we are committed to delivering high quality aspirational training and skills. Through

working in partnership with Bristol City Council’s Employment, Skills and Lifelong Learning Service we are supporting individuals and communities to realise their full potential, and as a result of our apprentices’ achievements they are able to thrive and make a positive impact both locally and regionally.”

The Young Parents Maths and English Group is part of the post-16 education and skills ESL offer and is based in central Bristol. It provides an inclusive, supportive environment with a creche.

Ella, who attended the course. said: “I never really got the hang of school, always felt like I fell behind in everything. I came out of school and found I had ADHD and autism; I was struggling academically because this was hidden and undiagnosed. When I had my daughter, I dropped out of college because I couldn’t cope with the work and a newborn, I also had a lot of family issues going on at the time too.

"I had also lost my confidence, but this course has given me another opportunity to get my qualifications and provide care for my daughter. My confidence has grown, I really enjoy the learning and support from staff.”

or ring 0117 942 4328

0117 942 4328

Please contact mhs-info@montpschool.org for more information on Year 7 applications.

Please

Please contact mhs-info@montpschool.org for more information on Year 7 applications.

Come and discover life at Clifton College. You will have the chance to meet our fantastic staff, learn more about our outstanding pastoral care and take a tour around the school to see our broad range of facilities.

Autumn Open Days

Preschool - Year 6 Open Day Friday 27th September

Sixth Form Open Evening Friday 4th October

Year 7 - Year 11 Open Day Saturday 5th October

Book your Open Event slot or book a personal tour at a time convenient to you at: cliftoncollege.com

'Extraordinary' effort saves Steiner School

BRISTOL Steiner School is opening for the new academic year after what’s been described as an ‘extraordinary’ rescue effort.

The independent school was facing closure after half a century when it went into administration in December 2023 but parents and supporters raised nearly £1 million in loans and donations to save it.

Their work to bring in funds and create a transformation plan enabled the school in Redland Hill, which offers a holistic education, to exit administration this summer.

Lawyer Gareth Hegarty, who led the exit on behalf of the school’s Parents, Teachers and Friends Association (PTFA) said it was a big achievement at a time when challenging financial circumstances were forcing other schools to shut.

“A solvent exit from administration is truly extraordinary and is testament to the efforts of the local

community to bring this school back from the brink. This is a great result for the school, its pupils and the local area”

Lindsay Berresford, chair of the PTFA and a former pupil, said: "This school has been a cornerstone of our community for 50 years. To see it thrive once again, thanks to the collective efforts of so many dedicated individuals, is truly heartwarming.”

The rescue means that the 80 pupils aged four to 11 can return to their classrooms and the jobs of more than 20 staff have been saved. The school hopes in future to expand to include a middle school, for children aged 11 to 14.

Rowena Kennedy-Epstein, co-chair of trustees, said new systems of financial checks and balances would ensure longterm sustainability and stability. Renovations are also being carried out to the building and garden spaces, underscore the school's dedication to providing a stimulating and inspiring

learning environment.

"We know from speaking to parents across the city that an education that builds wellbeing and creativity alongside academic skills is badly needed in Bristol, and we are working to make it more accessible than ever," Rowena said.

"We have moved to a sliding scale fee system and are pleased to now offer bursaries to families of African/Caribbean heritage, reflecting our commitment to diversity and accessibility."

The school has welcomed four new trustees committed to its future vision and has appointed a new headteacher, Angela Cogan, who has decades of experience as an early years and primary school teacher and leader, including three years as an Ofsted inspector.

Angela said: "I feel privileged to be part of such an exciting time. The Steiner approach is very close to my heart, and I aim to safeguard everything we hold dear while ensuring children

make the best progress possible."

Bristol Steiner School, founded in 1974, is part of a worldwide network of SteinerWaldorf schools known for their focuson holistic development, nurturing creativity, critical thinking and a love for learning.

Alumni, current students, past and present parents, and teachers celebrated the school's rich history and its bright future at their summer fair.

One of the new trustees, Siobhan Allison, said: "Bristol Steiner School has always been more than just a place of learning; it's a family. Our new trustees are committed to preserving this legacy while driving forward with a sustainable vision for the future."

Rilke Hayne, the granddaughter of the founder, added: "It's incredibly moving to see the spirit of the school reignited by the very community it serves. My children are now part of this legacy, and I couldn't be prouder."

n MEET THE HEAD

Message from Justin Humphreys, Head of St Katherine’s

School

St Katherine’s is a thriving, diverse school community that has educated students from all over Bristol for many years. Year 7 students from nearly 40 primary schools are joining us this September. So why do so many parents and carers choose St Katherine’s for their child’s secondary education?

ST Katherine’s is a thriving, diverse school community that has educated students from all over Bristol for many years. Year 7 students from over 50 primary schools are joining us this September. So why do so many parents and carers choose St Katherine’s for their child’s secondary education?

I believe it’s because our approach is based on the principle that, as individuals, we all perform at our best when we feel confident, secure and valued.

Along with my committed team, I am passionate about giving every student an environment where they feel safe and happy so they can achieve their full potential and pursue their dreams. We do this through our exceptional pastoral care and absolute commitment to wellbeing which makes St Katherine’s such a happy, thriving school.

We take full advantage of St Katherine’s size to create a friendly atmosphere where every child is known and cared for as an individual.

We take full advantage of St Katherine’s size to create a friendly atmosphere where every child is well known and cared for as an individual.

Like our students, our staff

are energetic, passionate and committed professionals, who stretch and challenge our young people both inside and outside of the classroom - we all learn something new everyday and it enriches and improves us all. Besides our track record of academic success - our GCSE, A level and vocational subject results continue to reach new heights, securing pathways for all our young people - our curriculum is broad, including our co-curricular offer shaped around SKYwards - St

Like our students, our staff are energetic, passionate and committed professionals, who stretch and challenge our young people both inside and outside of the classroom - we all learn something new everyday and it enriches and improves us all. Besides our track record of academic success - our GCSE, A level and vocational subject results continue to reach new heights, securing pathways for all our young people. Our curriculum is broad, including our co-curricular offer shaped around SKYwards - St

Katherine’s Youth Award designed to ensure everyone enjoys new experiences, helping them develop into young adults equipped socially and academically to take on the opportunities and challenges of life.

Above all, a St Katherine’s education is busy, inspiring, ambitious and great fun. Come along to our September open evening (details below) to experience it. You and your child are guaranteed a warm welcome.

Above all, a St Katherine’s education is busy, inspiring, ambitious and great fun! Come along to our September open evening (details below) to experience it for yourself. You and your child are guaranteed a warm welcome.

n LEARNING THROUGH PLAY

Six simple play ideas this September

This month’s play feature is all about keeping it simple. We know how busy lives are and we want to help you keep play simple this September. Enjoy playing with your child without having to spend lots of time, energy and money setting up an activity with these six simple play ideas that work really well at Magic Dragon Preschool. You can develop these as little or as much as you want. Playing alongside your child is the perfect way to help your child develop. Let them take the lead in the play and follow their interests and build on those where you can.

1 Water play: Fill up a washing up bowl outside and gather some pots and spoons. Squirt some washing up liquid to create some bubbly fun for your child to explore pouring, stirring, and emptying different sized pots. You could grab a brush and wash some plastic toys or make a café for them.

2 Frozen fun: The night before, fill up some ice cube trays and mini pots with water, drop in small toys or pom poms and pop in the freezer. This creates a

great sensory activity that will encourage your child to problem solve and persevere as they try and rescue the toys the next day. You could provide a bowl of warm water, spoons, salt and talk about what is happening.

3 Sensory play: This is good for developing your child’s fine motor skills, understanding of capacity and weight and a lovely way to start conversations. Use a deep tray or washing up bowl and fill it with some old rice or lentils. Add in some kitchen utensils and farm animals and play alongside your child scooping and pouring and burying and discovering.

4 Musical instruments: As young children develop language and communication skills, listening plays a critical role in the learning process. Make your own musical instrument out of things from the recycling bin and some pasta or beans etc. experiment adding different amounts and enjoy decorating your instrument with stickers or paints. Make a family band and shake your shakers as you dance around the kitchen together listening as you make

'Students are more than just grades'

ST KATHERINE'S

School is celebrating another great set of outcomes for its students across both our academic and vocational pathways. Great progress has been made by the students with so many individual success stories. Students deserve this personal success, reflecting their dedication and we celebrate this success together, with teachers who are rightly proud of the achievements within their classes.

Headteacher Justin Humphreys commented: "The results that students have received today reflect their commitment and dedication to their studies, resulting in many students securing their first choice future pathway. Students are successfully progressing onto Russell Group universities, apprenticeships and great employment opportunities and we wish each and every one of our students much success on the next stage of their journey.

"Let us all remind ourselves our students are much more than a grade. They are all exceptional, inspiring, and talented young people and we couldn’t be prouder of each one of our students. A sincere thank you to the teaching staff and colleagues at St Katherine’s for their professionalism and compassion in tirelessly working in the best interests of our students."

different sounds.

5 Map out a road: Cars, trains and trucks are a favourite at Magic Dragon. Involve your child in using masking tape or chalk to set up a road play space for them and their vehicles to travel around. Go on a pretend journey and talk about what you see on the way.

6 Nature art: In our forest garden at preschool, we have a range of loose parts for the children to access and play with how they want. This includes pebbles, sticks, pine cones and shells. Encourage your child to make a picture, trail

or collection of different things from nature that you might pick up on a walk. Can your child help you make a picture of a face or a long line of pebbles that is longer than them?

At Magic Dragon we provide a safe and unique learning environment that inspires and supports our children to play, grow & explore and into develop curious, kind, resilient independent, empathetic and happy children who are ready and confident to move onto the next chapter in their lives.

SPECIAL OFFER – Register your child at Magic Dragon Preschool this September and receive one month’s childcare for free. Book a visit to come and see what fun we get up to by scanning the QR code, visiting www. magicdragonpreschool.org.uk or calling 07971 421 834

n EDUCATION

MHS students set for a bright future

STUDENTS at Montpelier High School’s co-educational sixth form V6 are looking forward to a bright future after securing impressive A-level results.

More than one in five grades was an A or A*, while overall outcomes were broadly in line with 2019, the last pre-Covid figures.

Science was strong this year, with students heading off to leading universities to study subjects including Medicine, Biomedicine, Dentistry, Nursing, Physiotherapy and Environmental Geoscience.

Yuusuf Aidid, who achieved A* grades in English and Sociology and A grades in Maths and Further Maths will read English at the University of Cambridge. Yuusuf, from Horfield, said: “I’m really excited to be going to Cambridge University to study English. I could not have done it without the amazing support of everyone at V6 and MHS. I felt so supported by all my teachers, they really are fantastic! ”

Hannah Rowe gained a starred Distinction in Health and Social Care, and A-levels in Sociology (A*) and English (A) is off to the University of Southampton to study Adult and Mental Health Nursing. She said: “I’m really pleased with what I got and so looking forward to starting my course in

Yuusuf Aidid

Southampton. I’m now going to go and celebrate!”

Persistence paid off for Ruby RussellRevelle, who returned to V6 for a third year to improve her grades. She will go to the University of Bristol to read History after gaining A-levels in History (A), English Language (C) and Religious Studies (B). Her mother Alice said: “We are so proud of Ruby. She has overcome lots of challenges to get to this point. MHS and V6 have been so supportive to our family; we are so pleased to say we are sending our younger daughter here

in September.”

Also celebrating was Anna Vaughan, who notched up an A* in English Literature, A in Geography and B in Spanish, and will study Geography at Sheffield.

Several students made exceptional progress in their two years of study, achieving results beyond expectations thanks to their hard work and resilience and the support of committed staff. Among them are Asiya Begum and Joshua Olagunju.

Caroline McClean, Vice Principal and Head of Sixth Form, said: “We’re delighted to be celebrating the superb achievements of our students. Many have secured university places at impressive destinations or have the results they need to progress onto ambitious apprenticeship places or employment choices.

"We are equally proud of those students who have made fantastic progress.”

Headteacher Vanetta (Ben) Spence said: “It has been a real privilege to be a part of the A-level results day. We are so proud of all our students and their wonderful achievements. The return to formal education was difficult for all young people but this cohort has impressed us with their resilience and tenacity. We know they will continue in this manner in the next stage of their journey.”

bishopstonvoice

n NATURE WATCH with

Dawn Lawrence

Insect life is truly mind-boggling ...

HAVING just returned from Scotland my thoughts have been lingering on midges and gnats. Luckily we were rarely bitten, partly because of the brisk Scottish winds. And let’s admit it, gnats can also add a certain je ne sais quoi to a scene: perhaps twinkling in the sunbeams or shimmering in streamers above the trees, almost like a disturbance of the air rather than a gathering of insects. They show a peak of activity in the autumn but in fact there are active gnats all year round. You can see winter gnats even on the shortest days, performing mating dances in favourable weather.

There are around 10 times as many species of non-biting ones as there are biting ones and, despite being vanishingly small, they are a significant group of insects in more ways than one. For a start there are well over 1600 species in the UK alone. In worldwide terms the gall gnats (to be continued) are claimed by some to be the largest of all insect families. “Hang on,” you cry, “what about those beetles of which God is so inordinately fond…” Beetles comprise a group called the Coleoptera - the largest Order of insectsbut Orders are divided into Families and, apparently, the gall gnats win the family

as that of any insect, ending in a tiny adult complete with a central nervous system, the ability to fly, find a mate and produce hundreds of eggs. An insect the size of a grain of salt which can lay 300 eggs! One of the things I most enjoy about the natural world is having my mind boggled and the ability of nature to miniaturise a functional insect into a speck this small really does the job!

competition!

Gnat and midge are general terms used for those tiny flies (of the Order Diptera) that tend to gather in large groups, or clouds, for mating purposes and they really are quite extraordinary. Some are less than 1mm long when adult. They go through complete metamorphosis from egg to larva to pupa to the adult flying insect. A life cycle, as complex

n VINEYARD NEWS with INGRID BATES

The role of gnats in ecosystems can be very complex. Fungus gnats live on the fungi that colonise dead wood. The larvae either feed on other insects (even smaller!) or they eat the fungal spores. If you go on a fungal foray this autumn you may well spot some tiny larvae, or the adults simply hanging around the toadstools. Gnat larvae often play a part in the decay cycle by consuming rotting vegetable matter. These larvae, some of which are aquatic, are a significant food source for larger invertebrates, fish and birds. The adults, accumulating in their millions in order to mate, provide a vital food source for birds which is especially valuable in autumn for birds on migration. As for the gall gnats, architects of fantastic structures and with a family life which gets quite Greek myth, we’ll have to save them for next time.

© Dawn Lawrence

Our new rose has such fruity notes

IN the vineyard, the grapes have swollen to their full size and are about to undergo veraison, which means they’ll start to change colour and become a bit more translucent in appearance. Inside the grapes, veraison signals a six-week process where grape sugar levels rise and acidity drops until they reach the right balance point for harvest.

Many people have found this summer’s weather to be a bit hit and miss for growing purposes. We had some good weather interspersed with wet and windy, so it all depended on when the vines were flowering as to how much fruit they produced. Different varieties flowered during different weeks which has led to varied levels of success.

On the wine front, we have just released our latest still rosé. As usual, we tried to have fun with the label and have created a vineyard soundscape which can

be accessed by a QR code. The soundscape has been created by Bristol based sound editor Angela Groves from SynergySound and features all the natural wildlife sounds you will find in the vineyard across the growing season as well as a few hidden extras! We hope you enjoy it. The wine itself is similar to last year’s

rosé but I would say definitely has a little bit of an edge - we’re really pleased with it.

A while ago we mentioned we had set the wheels in motion to create a new style of fizz called a col fondo. Well, the col fondo has been bottled and has finished fermenting so we hope to release the finished product in time for

Christmas. It’s made with the same red grapes that we use in our rosé and sparkling red but using natural yeasts.

hello@dunleavyvineyards.co.uk www.dunleavyvineyards.co.uk @DYvineyards (X/Twitter) dunleavy vineyards (Facebook & Instagram)

This rosette is made by the influence of the gall midge Rabdophaga rosaria on its host plant, a sallow. This is the midge larva’s home and its food source. Photo by AfroBrazilian

n BOOKS

Holiday food: not always plain sailing

Are you back from holiday having gained a few pounds?

Dietitian Sue Baic has written a book that might help you avoid the same problems next time

How has your background helped with writing the book?

I have been working in Bristol as a registered dietitian and nutritionist for 25 years, with 10 years lecturing at Bristol

University. When I set up my own nutrition consultancy in 2017, I considered how best to use my skills and decided to apply to offer enrichment talks on cruise ships which led me to look into how to enjoy the temptations of 24-hour food on holiday without piling on the extra pounds.

What prompted you to turn your findings and experience into a book?

I had been working with a few cruise companies, giving talks on board. Talking with crew and guests led me to realise that there was no book on the market to provide this kind of guidance, and that there was a real interest in having something like this to hand.

What research was involved?

All the tips in the book are based on good, practical science –everything comes from a research

perspective. I looked at both nutrition and psychology studies, examining how to combine moderation and pleasure. I researched the effects of types of food, as well as the impact of eating in groups, speed, timing, location etc. Studies show that half of the weight gained in a year comes from holidays and it can prove very difficult to get rid of afterwards.

What kind of tips might readers find to guide them?

There are 50 bite-sized, practical tips in sections including snacking, restaurant dining, drinks, breakfast and staying active. Many of the simpler strategies involve buffet dining, such as: sharing a dessert, using smaller-size plates, piling up on salad and vegetables first, keeping high-calorie sauces on the side and eating more slowly. All these tips are designed to

individual depending on what outcomes are desired.

Travelling Light: 50 bite-size tips to avoid weight gain on a cruise vacation by Sue Baic is available on www.amazon.co.uk as an eBook or paperback. We have one free copy of Sue’s book to give away to the first name pulled from the hat. If you would like to enter the draw, please send your name and contact details to: news@henleazeandwestburyvoice. co.uk by September 30.

Clevedon Salerooms, The Auction Centre, Kenn Road, Kenn, Clevedon, Bristol, BS21 6TT

Chinese Canton Famille Rose

BOOKS

Swimming Home

THE setting for Swimming Home is a holiday villa in the south of France. The year is 1994. The story unfolds over one week in July. Joe and Isabel Jacobs and their 14 year old daughter Nina are sharing the villa with their friends Mitchell & Laura. Joe is a published poet with his work translated into 23 languages whilst Isabel is a war correspondent reporting from Northern Ireland, Lebanon & Kuwait. Mitchell & Laura own a loss making shop in London selling primitive Asian and European weapons and African jewellery.

Their peaceful holiday is changed forever when a naked woman climbs out of the villa swimming pool. Kitty Finch is in her early twenties. She is a botanist and aspiring poet who

dreams of visiting the poppy fields of Pakistan. She suffers from depression and has recently spent two months in a hospital in Kent. She is a regular visitor to the villa which is owned by a friend of her mothers. She has written a poem called Swimming Home and is keen for Joe to read it and to give her feedback. We also meet Jurgen, the German caretaker of the villa who has silver dreadlocks and is a militant vegetarian. He likes to smoke hash with his friend Claude, a Mick Jagger lookalike who owns a local café. We are also introduced to their neighbour, Madeline Sheridan a 79 year old who walked out of her marriage and who has lived in France for 15 years. What does Kitty really want from them all ? How will Joe respond to her poem ? and why is Isabel so keen to invite her to stay

by Deborah Levy

with them in the villa ?

You can find this engaging and thrilling book with its dramatic ending on the shelf along with many others at Bishopston Library. Please come and visit us at 100 Gloucester Road. You can walk out with a library card, giving you free internet access, and the opportunity to select from a catalogue of over two million books, available via the Libraries West app and website.

Bishopston Library opening Hours:

Monday (1pm-7pm)

Tuesday ( closed) Wednesday (11am-5pm)

Thursday (11am-5pm)

Review by Bob Deacon of Bishopston Library

Friday (11am-5pm)

Saturday (11am-5pm)

Sunday (closed)

Your Home Away From Home in Horfield Your Home Away From Home in Horfield

Best value for money (weekly fees star

24/7 nurse cover. 24/7 nurse cover.

In-house physiotherapist. In-house physiotherapist.

Idyllic garden & grounds. Idyllic garden & grounds.

Constant redecoration project

Automated care plan system. Automated care plan system.

Wheelchair cars available for all.

Great daily activities. Great daily activities.

Nutritious fresh meals. Nutritious fresh meals. And much, much more. And much, much more.

n WHAT'S ON IN OUR AREA

Tuesday September 10

n GREAT WESTERN SOCIETY

BRISTOL GROUP. 7:30 for 7:45 pm - ‘The Statfold Barn Railway’ presented by Phil Stallard. BAWA, 589 Southmead Road, BRISTOL, BS34 7RF. The meetings are open to all and there is no admission charge, but a suggested donation of £3 to help defray expenses is appreciated. Contact: Dave Winter 07947 246259

Saturday September 21

n HARVEST FIESTA ST

MATTHEW'S GARDEN, Clare Rd, Kingsdown 2-4pm. Apple pressing, produce stall, craft, competitions, tea and cake. Fun for all the community. All welcome.

September 26

n VOLUNTEERS NEEDED Are you a parent or grandparent?

Local charity Home-Start Bristol & South Gloucestershire is looking for new volunteers who have parenting skills. The charity supports families with under 5s. Volunteers are needed for home-visiting or to help at parent groups, for 2-3 hours a week. The next volunteer training course starts on Thursday September 26 in Southmead. Visit www.homestartbsg.org.uk, email admin@homestartbsg.org.uk or call 0117 950 1170 to find out more.

Tuesday October 8

n GREAT WESTERN SOCIETY

BRISTOL GROUP. 7:30 for 7:45 pm‘The Bill Potter Collection 1938-1988’ Presented by Chris Smith. BAWA, 589 Southmead Road, BRISTOL, BS34 7RF. The meetings are open to all and there is no admission charge, but a suggested donation of £3 to help defray expenses is appreciated. Contact: Dave Winter 07947 246259

Saturday October 12

n BRISTOL BACH CHOIR AUTUMN CONCERT at 7:30pm - All Saints Church, Clifton, Bristol BS8 3ED, Conductor: David Bednall; Organ: Nigel Nash. Join us for a concert celebrating the music of Vaughan Williams, Stanford, Parry, Tallis & Howells. Tickets - £21 (reserved), £15 (unreserved - £12 if bought in advance), £1 students/under 18s. Web: bristolbach.org.uk Tel: 0117 214 0721 Email: tickets@bristolbach. org.uk

REGULAR EVENTS

Monday

n SHARED READING AT ST PAUL’S LIBRARY. Meet and connect with others Mondays 2pm – 3.30pm. St Paul’s Learning Centre, 94 Grosvenor Road, Bristol BS2 8XJ.

Email: support@thereader.org.uk

n REDLAND WIND BAND has vacancies for some woodwind, brass and percussion players. This friendly group meets 7.30-9.30pm at Redland Church Hall, Redland Green. Contact via email on redlandwindband@gmail.com

n DICKENS SOCIETY. 7pm, at Leonard Hall, Henleaze URC, Waterford Rd, Bristol BS9 4BT. Talks, costumed readings, book club and social events. See www.dickenssociety.org.uk or phone Roma on 0117 9279875.

n PLAY BOWLS at Canford Park in a friendly, social atmosphere. Qualified coaches and equipment provided. Contact: Les on 07305695579

n WESTBURY AND CLIFTON AREA DISCUSSION GROUP are a merry band of retired people who meet at Westbury on Trym Baptist Church every Monday morning (9.45) and like to challenge ourselves with topical debate on what’s happening in the world. If you would like to join and help to solve some of today's challenging issues, contact James Ball 01454 415165 or Ian Viney 0117 9501628.

n BRISTOL COMMUNITY GAMELAN play the music of Java at Cotham School from 6.30-8.30. We play by numbers – only 1-6, without the 4 ! So no auditions, no need to read music. If you fancy a different musical experience, contact us via email on keithripley27@gmail.com

n WESTBURY ON TRYM WOMEN'S INSTITUTE meets on the third Monday of the month in the Westbury Village Hall, Eastfield Road, BS9 4AG, from 2.00 - 4.00 pm. We have interesting speakers, and extra activities of crafts, lunch club, skittles and outings. For more information call Sascha on 07961619806 or Traci on 07766073917

Monday and Tuesday

n PILATES classes at the Northcote Scout Hall: Mondays 9.30am (Improvers), 10.30am (Mixed ability); Tuesdays 9.30am (Improvers), 10.30am (Beginners). £8.50 per class booked as a course, or £12 single sessions. Small classes, that must be booked in advance. Full details at www.mindbodypilates.org. Contact: Leanne 07817189474 / leanne@ mindbodypilates.org

Tuesday

n THE ARTS SOCIETY BRISTOL LECTURE welcomes new members. Our lectures, given by specialists in their own field, take place on the second Tuesday of the month

from September to May at 8pm at Redmaids' High BS9 3AW and by internet. For more information visit our website www.theartssocietybristol.org.uk

n BRISTOL HARMONY WEST GALLERY CHOIR and band sing and play lively church and village music from the 18thcentury. St Edyth’s Church Hall, St Edyth’s Road, Sea Mills, 7.30 pm on the 1st and 3rd Tuesday each month. All voices (SATB), string, wind and reed instruments welcome. No auditions but ability to read music helpful. www.bristolharmony.wordpress. com or call Fritjof 0117 924 3440. Contact before attending.

n POETRY UNLIMITED – poetry circle meet on the First Tuesday of every month 11am - 12 midday. Basement Room, Café Kino, 108 Stokes Croft, Bristol, BS1 3RU. £2.50 - £3.00 donation towards the cost of the room. Bring a couple of poems to share, other poets or your own. Contact Dee: wetwo@ gentlyblown.co.uk Web: www. poetryunlimitedbristol.weebly.com

n COMPANION VOICES BRISTOL

We are a 'threshold choir' looking for new people to join us. We meet in Easton on the 3rd Tuesday of the month from 7 to 9 pm to learn songs by ear and build skills in sensitivity/compassion/loving presence to sing at the bedsides of people nearing the end of life. To join/support us in this work, contact Valerie on bristol@companionvoices. org. Visit www.facebook.com/ CompanionVoicesBristol and www. companionvoices.org.

Tuesday

n BRISTOL A CAPPELLA: Tuesdays 7.30pm, Victoria Methodist Church. Bristol A Cappella is an awardwinning mixed barbershop chorus of around 30 members who love to sing close harmony a cappella. Our songs are mainly from pop music, with a bit of rock and some musicals. www.bristolacappella. co.uk/ Contact: membership@ bristolacappella.co.uk

Tuesday and Saturday

n BRISTOL HF RAMBLING CLUB

We are a friendly sociable club with a variety of walks. We have 2 Tuesday walks of either 8-9 miles or 5-6 miles. On Saturdays we have varying length walks including a hill walk eg Brecon Beacons once a month. If you would like more information please visit our website.

Wednesday

n BRISTOL SCRABBLE CLUB meets every Wednesday evening at 7pm until 10pm at Filton Community Centre, Elm Park, Filton BS34 7PS.

New members welcome- first visit free so come along and give us a try. For further information contact Tania by email at tanialake@yahoo.co.uk

n SWIFTS INCLUSIVE SPORTS swimming sessions are for adults 18+ with any disability (hoist available) on Wednesday evenings from 7-8pm. £5 per session at Henbury Leisure Centre. Contact Karen Lloyd at 07734 335 878.

n WELCOME WEDNESDAY

Friendly and free coffee afternoon on the last Wednesday of the month, 2-3.30pm at The Beehive Pub, Wellington Hill West, BS9 4QY. Meet new people, have fun, and find out what’s happening in your local area. Call 0117 435 0063 for more information.

n GOLDEN HILL WI Meets the first Wednesday of every month. 1-3pm. Golden Hill Sports Ground, Wimbledon Rd, BS6 7YA. A vibrant, lively new afternoon WI in BS6. We have an exciting and varied programme to offer to members. Visitors and new members will be given a warm welcome. For more information contact Pam Scull at goldenhillwi@gmail.com.

n HEALING SESSIONS Spiritual Healing is available from 2pm to 3.30pm by the accredited healing team at Westbury Park Spiritualist Church, Cairns Road BS6 7TH. Just turn up or or visit www. westburyparksc.org

n OPEN DEVELOPMENT CIRCLE For those interested in developing their spiritual awareness and mediumistic ability. 7.15 for 7.30 start at Westbury Park Spiritualist Church, Cairns Road BS6 7TH. Just turn up or or visit www. westburyparksc.org

n BRISTOL VOICES COMMUNITY CHOIR welcomes new members at any time. We meet at 7.30pm in St Werburghs Primary School during term time. See www.bristolvoices. org.uk for details.

Thursday

n HEALING FOR WELLBEING Feel more relaxed, peaceful, calmer. Drop-in at Redland Meeting House, 126 Hampton Road, BS6 6JE. NEW TIME 3.30 to 4.45 pm. Donation basis. Supported by Healing Trust members. Contact Selina 0117 9466434 or selinanewton@yahoo. co.uk for dates and information.

n BISHOPSTON COMMUNITY CHOIR Meet on Thursday evenings, 7.30pm to 9.00pm at Horfield Baptist Church, 160a Gloucester Road, Bishopston BS7 8NT. Everyone welcome, no audition necessary. Contact us via email on bishoproadchoir@gmail.com

n HENLEAZE LADIES’ CHOIR Join us as we fill St Peter’s Church Hall in Henleaze with a diverse selection of music. We are a friendly choir and meet on Thursday afternoons in term time from 1.45 to 3.45. There are no auditions, and the ability to read music is not necessary. Contact Jeanette on 9685409 or Jane on 07752 332278

n BRISTOL BACH CHOIR are now recruiting new members. We are a friendly auditioned choir of between 30 and 40 singers. All voice parts are welcome. We rehearse on a Thursday evening at Bristol Grammar School from 7.30pm to 9.30pm. If interested please contact Julie at membership@bristolbach.org.uk

n HENBURY SINGERS

RECRUITING NEW MEMBERS. We meet each Thursday 7.30-9.15pm at Stoke Bishop CE Primary School, Cedar Park BS9 1BW. We perform sacred and secular music under our conductor Andrew Kirk. No auditions. See our website www. henburysingers.org or contact the secretary at secretary@ henburysingers.org

n HIGHBURY BADMINTON CLUB: Pete Stables 0117 950 1524 or www.pete4458.wixsite.com/

highburybadminton Thurs 7:30pm mid September to End April, Westbury-on-Trym Village Hall

n ENJOY SCOTTISH DANCING aLooking for a new hobby? Join us for fun, fitness and friendship (singles welcome). First evening free! Thursdays: New/Inexperienced dancers 7–8.30pm (£4). Intermediate/Advanced dancers 7.30–10pm (£6). St Monica Trust, Oatley House Main Hall, BS9 3TN. www.rscdsbristol.info. Contact Ruth 01179683057.

n THE STEPFORD SINGERS WOMEN'S COMMUNITY CHOIR meets at Horfield Baptist Church, Bishopston on Thursday afternoons, 1pm to 3pm. No auditions and no need to read music! Come for a free taster session with our friendly, supportive group and learn to sing in harmony. For info, contact Fran franbolton66@gmail.com

Friday

n BRISTOL SPANISH CIRCLE

Come and meet a group of friendly people and enjoy talks in Spanish, musical events and social evenings. We meet every month from September to June, usually on the last Friday of the month, at St Peter’s Church Hall in Henleaze. For more info, see https://www. spanishcirclebristol.com/

n NEWS Star line-up for LitFest

WILDLIFE presenter and environmental campaigner Chris Packham will be the keynote speaker at Clifton LitFest.

The festival, which takes place from November 15-17, will be the most ambitious to date with a range of writers, artists and musicians taking part in more than 50 events.

Others lined up so far include novelist Kate Mosse, biographervHarriet Baker, local historian and television journalistJonathan Dimbleby and poet Kim Moore.

Moses Mckenzie makes a welcome return to discuss his latest novel, Fast By The Horns. To mark the 200th anniversary of the founding of the RNLI, Helen Doe discuss her book One Crew while Carol Vorderman will talk about how to fix broken Britain with her new book, Now What?

More contributors to the festival will follow soon.

Festival chair David Parker said: “We are absolutely thrilled

that Chris Packham is our keynote speaker at this year’s festival. Through his work for the BBC’s Natural History Unit Chris has a long and deep relationship with the city of Bristol and this, together with his tireless commitment and campaigning for many environmental causes, will ensure a massively successful beginning to the weekend’.

Chris Packham said: ”I'm greatly looking forward to joining the Clifton LitFest this year. My wildlife career is very much rooted in Bristol soil having been taken under the Natural History Unit's wing in 1984 as a trainee cameraman. A few years later I had moved from behind the camera to present the Really Wild Show. These distant decades seem a very long time ago as we now face and fight catastrophic biodiversity loss. Bristol boasts a strong activist movement which is another reason why I feel uplifted when I visit."

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A welcoming and relaxing atmosphere

A face of rich NHS diversity in our community

THE recent violence hijacked our shared grief at the shocking events in Southport, creating further trauma as we experienced and saw hate directed at Muslims, People of colour, asylum seekers, and individuals who look different because of their faith, culture or ethnicity.

Most of us will hold such views as appalling, but it caused great fear for our team here at Kellaway Pharmacy. The thought is that while we represent the NHS in our Community, we may still never be accepted as part of the society we care for.

Community Pharmacy is arguably the most visible expression of the diversity of the NHS—one of the world's largest and most diverse workforces. For us at Kellaway Pharmacy, the personal impact of the violence included helping colleagues commute to and from work, painful conversations checking on their wellbeing and supporting them to decide if they feel able to work despite concerns for the communities they are part of and their loved ones. Dark days indeed.

One thing, however, is never in doubt—We will always do our best to provide the best compassionate care for everyone in our Community, never considering who you are or where you are from. This is why the NHS exists: a universal offer now underpinned, as in our team, by individuals who have left their home countries and families to work and be part of beautiful communities like ours.

How now do we heal from this toxic infection in our society? We must challenge and remove false, divisive narratives, often spread on social media and endorsed by individuals who know better, for self-serving purposes. It all cloaks the mind in harmful ignorance, from stories that undermine proven health interventions to peddling false cures and remedies. Delivering health is about reinforcing dignity, so personal choice is sacrosanct; 'lies' rob us of the freedom to choose correctly.

It is a sad reality that health inequalities are a form of social injustice for significant population groups in our country; this must

never be ignored.

The work to address this unfair burden of physical and mental health needs, in our resource-blessed country, must also never be falsely presented as an "us versus them" narrative.

We all must work together to create a caring, welcoming society. This includes advocating through democratic channels and contributing to the discussions in a kind and compassionate tone. Locally, we must actively work to ensure everyone feels part of our Community. In truth, our personal interactions, no matter how brief, have the most impact—a warm smile, friendly chat, and genuine expressions of neighbourliness all define this.

Kellaway Pharmacy is proud to be part of this collective effort, aware that we have a remember to this Community far beyond whether we provide care to you or your family. Need us? Just call Kellaway Pharmacy: 0117 9246579

Will Writing

Meet with a local professional and receive full guidance and support.

Family & Property Trusts

Ensure your loved ones receive the maximum benefit by protecting your estate with trusts.

Lasting Powers of Attorney

Probate Services

Our specialists help make a difficult time as stress-free and straightforward as possible. Give someone the power to make decisions on your behalf, no matter what happens.

n PROPERTY OF THE MONTH

Boasting 2237 sq. ft / 207.9 sq. m of living space, this characterful home retains many period features, including high ceilings, ornate cornice and stripped wooden floors to name a few.

The spacious accommodation consists of a welcoming entrance hall, with two bright and airy principal receptions to the front.

The rear is made up of a 3rd reception, shower room and steps leading down

to a kitchen - which in turn leads to a dining room and on out to the rear garden. An impressive set of stairs leads to a half landing where the first of five bedrooms is founds. A couple of steps up and you will find the large central landing, servicing three further large bedrooms and a family bathroom. A couple of steps up from the landing lead to the final bedroom currently being used as a home office.

n NEWS FROM THE METRO MAYOR

New powers will bring more growth

THE new government has made economic growth its overriding mission.

That’s also been mine. Growing the economy is how we improve living standards for everyone and create the wealth we need to help get our public services back on track, and improve things like public transport.

You won’t be surprised to learn that I completely support this national focus on economic growth. As West of England regional mayor, I have a key role in helping the government to deliver this ambition.

Indeed, one of the very first meetings our new Prime Minister held at 10 Downing Street, just four days after being elected, was with all the regional mayors of England.

He wanted to make clear to us the vital role we have to help deliver the new government’s objectives against a backdrop of very, very tough economic circumstances.

Compared to the other regions outside London, the West of England has a very strong economy. We can take pride in that, and the major contribution we make to UK national wealth.

But our wealth is not spread widely or fairly enough locally.

If we harness our untapped potential, our

region can become an even greater economic powerhouse, raising living standards right across Bristol, Bath & North East Somerset, and South Gloucestershire.

We already have an important record of delivery across the West of England.

Just last month, the West of England Combined Authority Committee approved £9 million of investment into the Somer Valley Enterprise Zone.

When finished, this site will offer state-of-the-art facilities for new and growing businesses, and create up to 1,300 jobs for local people. Creating jobs outside of the most populated areas will also help ease congestion and shorten people’s commutes.

The Somer Valley is just one of the focussed growth zones that we have in the West of England, along with the West Innovation Arc in South Gloucestershire, Bath to Bristol Corridor and the Severn Estuary. All will be key to local and national wealth creation.

By focusing on our areas of strength, and taking a strategic approach to the infrastructure needs of the region, we can deliver greater returns on investment and attract even more money – private as well as government.

It is also essential that we give all our workforce

the skills they require to make full use of the new opportunities.

Through services like Skills Connect, my mayoral combined authority has already helped thousands of local people find training and new jobs.

The government will give me as mayor more new powers over employment and skills, that will allow us to go much further and more quickly.

The progress we’ve made so far across the West of England is good, but I’m determined to use these new mayoral powers and responsibilities to bring about greater economic success in the future –something you, your family, and our region deserve.

Metro Mayor Dan Norris writes for the Voice

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