Bishopstonvoice January 2013 by Emma Cooper

FREE EVERY MONTH for people and businesses in Bishopston & Redland January, 2013 Issue 1

P19

WIN

£50 to spend on a cookery class at

www.bishopstonvoice.co.uk Cooking with Delmonico, P21 | Shopping for a new year, P25

Inside Call to tackle dangerous cycling P4

‘Mayor must take a stand on store’ See P3 Campaigners call for start to rail project P6 Feline generous? Charity launches new appeal P15

20mph plan for local streets gathers pace P5 Scouts look back on their centenary P10 Rallying support for a driving challenge P23 What’s On.. p18 Puzzles... p20 Property... p27

Business.. p29 Sport... p30 Classifieds p31

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January, 2013

News Bishopston Voice contacts Emma Cooper Publisher

Joni Mann Editor

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

07887 561567 news@bishopstonvoice.co.uk

Rebecca Day News editor

Reporters

07912 484405 news@bishopstonvoice.co.uk

Lauren Winney Natasha Russell Safia Yallaoui

Find us on Facebook www.facebook.com/ Bishopstonvoice

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

February deadline Our February edition will be going to print on January 28. To ensure your news or letter is included, please contact us by Thursday, January 24. Advertisers are also asked to contact us by the same date.

Useful numbers Bristol City Council 0117 922 2000 Citizens Advice Bureau 0844 499 4718 Police www.avonandsomersetpolice.uk General enquiries: 101

Emergency: 999 Fire www.avonfire.gov.uk General enquiries: 0117 926 2061 Emergency: 999 NHS Direct 0845 46 47

PUBLISHER’S NOTE: Bishopston Voice is independent. We cannot take responsibility for content or accuracy of adverts, and it is advertisers’ responsibility to conform to all relevant legislation. We cannot vouch for any services offered. Opinions are not necessarily those of the editor. Bishopston Voice is distributed each month to Bishopston residents. If for some reason you do not get a copy, please collect one from local pick-up points. Feedback is always welcomed, contact Emma Cooper on 0117 908 2121 or emma@bishopstonvoice.co.uk. This month 6,000 copies will be distributed around Bishopston and Redland.

Welcome to your Voice... Welcome to Bishopstonvoice, the third monthly "Voice" paper to be launched in the Bristol area. It follows Filtonvoice and Keynshamvoice, where the mixture of news, views and features has proved popular with residents and local businesses wanting to reach their community. Bishopstonvoice will be delivered free every month to 5,000 homes in Bishopston and Redland, with 1,000 copies available at pick-up points on Gloucester Road. Publisher Emma Cooper said: "The news that matters most to us is often not what’s happening in our part of the country or even in our city. It’s the issues and events that are happening in our

own community, involving the people we know and the places we spend most of our time. "Our aim is to provide a means for the community to talk about the issues affecting them, publicise events, celebrate successes and share views. We hope you will join the conversation." The Voice series has also forged links with the University of the West of England through which final-year journalism undergraduates can gain paid experience reporting on community issues. Residents and local businesses can join the conversation and get in touch with us using the contact details in the panel on the left.

To advertise, contact Emma on 0117 908 2121 or 07715 770448. Got news? Call Joni on 07887 561567. Email: emma@bishopstonvoice.co.uk

January, 2013

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News

Mayor urged to take stand on superstore Bishopston councillors are calling on Bristol’s new Mayor, George Ferguson, to “put his money where his mouth is” and back their fight to stop Sainsbury’s building a massive superstore in Filton Avenue. Hundreds of local residents have told Liberal Democrats Bev Knott and David Willingham that they are opposed to the scheme for Bristol Rovers’ current home ground, the Mem. They say the proposed supermarket would be far too big and would cause traffic chaos in the area. Mr Ferguson spoke to Bristol Civic Society about the effect major stores have on local communities just after his election in November. According to the Society’s website, the Mayor said he wanted Bristolians to come forward with ideas “on how the

An artist’s impression of the how the proposed supermarket could look government and its traders can be firmer against larger supermarkets looking to move in to places where they may cause more harm than good”. Councillor Knott said: “We believe Sainsbury’s current plans will do more harm than good to a whole swathe of north Bristol. “There has been an impact assessment done for the planners, which shows independent traders will be devastated by this scheme, not just in nearby Gloucester Road, but as far away as Whiteladies Road.

“David and I were delighted to see George’s remarks about supermarkets. “He clearly understands our position and we are urging him now to throw his political weight behind our campaign and help us win. "We know he can't make planning decisions himself, but he has a strong position on supermarkets and we urge him to take a stand on behalf of our worried local community and shopkeepers.That's what he was elected for."

Parking rules lifted for event Bristol’s mayor joined traders and shoppers on Gloucester Road for a spot of Christmas shopping and a mince pie - and suspended parking restrictions for the evening. Shop owners made the special request for their late-night shopping event on December 13. In response, Mayor George Ferguson asked officers to suspend parking restrictions on the bus lanes and clearways for the evening peak on that day. Mr Ferguson said: “I have long been a champion of Bristol’s independent shops and enterprises and the Gloucester Road is renowned as one of the best independent streets in the UK. It’s a great place to shop both at Christmas and the whole year round. “This is just the kind of initiative I want to see more of to help make our high streets more resilient to the challenges of retail sheds and internet shopping.”

To advertise, contact Emma on 0117 908 2121 or 07715 770448. Got news? Call Joni on 07887 561567. Email: emma@bishopstonvoice.co.uk

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January, 2013

News

Call for crackdown on danger cyclists Tackling dangerous cycling should be made a top priority by the new police and crime commissioner, a Bishopston councillor has said. Councillor David Willingham has written to Sue Mountstevens, urging her to ensure local police crackdown on anti-social cycling, such as riding on the pavement. Councillor Willingham said: “Bristol enjoys the accolade of being a Cycling City and much has been done by the city council to encourage and promote cycling. The vast majority of cyclists are sensible and law-abiding. But there is a small minority of cyclists whose behaviour is dangerous, illegal. Many of my constituents find it intimidating. “The complaints I receive about people cycling on the pavement are often from vulnerable sections of the community.”

Complaints have been made about some cyclists riding on pavements He has now invited Ms Mountstevens to come to Bishopston and meet traders along the Gloucester Road to hear ther views, before attending a local Neighbourhood Forum. At December’s Bishopston Neighbourhood Forum, police comunity support officer David Said reported that officers held an enforcement day earlier in the month on Gloucester Road

and Whiteladies Road, to tackle safety issues with cyclists. One person was stopped for cycling on the pavement, with the majority stopped for cycling without lights. Those pulled over were given the option of a cycling safety lesson with a reduced fine. Ms Mountstevens has said there will be a meeting in January to look at cycling issues in this part of the city.

School places deadline nears Parents who haven’t already applied for their child’s first school place have a fortnight to send their choices to the city council. The deadline for applications is January 15 and a council spokesperson said: “We urge parents to apply in plenty of time before the deadline of 15 January 2013 - all the information and online application is available on www.bristol.gov.uk/schooladmissions.” It comes just a few months after the council Cabinet approved the School Organisation Strategy, allocating £31 million in 2012/13 to schemes aimed at increasing the number of primary places available across the city. This includes £2.4m for improvements at St Bonaventure’s and £1.4m for Bishop Road Primary, to complete the creation of more teaching facilities within the existing school and on the site adjoining the playing field in Beauchamp Road.

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Take care of the future today If you don’t have a will the Government decides who will inherit your estate for you and it’s done according to some rather old rules called the Laws of Intestacy which were drawn up in the 1920s. This means that your spouse (husband or wife) might end up sharing your wealth with your children or parents. It almost certainly means that your partner may get nothing at all if you are unmarried.

A major benefit of a professionally drafted will is the fact that it can ring fence your estate for specific future beneficiaries, creating a trust which will protect the assets should there be a need for long-term care after the first person has died. Many thousands of homes were sold last year to pay for long-term care fees. This is why people are looking to protect their estate by having a will that can help guard against this happening.

We are all living much longer than before but none of us can foretell the future. Old age, or an accident, can bring with it deterioration in our ability to deal with our own affairs. By simply taking out a Lasting Power of Attorney you can appoint a trusted friend or relative to take over and deal with your affairs... paying bills, dealing with bank accounts and so on. At Allguard Services we understand that you may be unsure

about the next steps but need a knowledgeable person backed by a hugely experienced legal team to dicuss these vitally important matters with. That’s why we offer you a no obligation free initial meeting in the comfort of your own home at a time and place that suits you. If you wish to contact me, John Warner, your local consultant, please ring the number below or my phone number 07816 826669.

To advertise, contact Emma on 0117 908 2121 or 07715 770448. Got news? Call Joni on 07887 561567. Email: emma@bishopstonvoice.co.uk

January, 2013

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News

Plan for new 20mph limit gathers pace Plans to introduce a 20mph speed limit across Bristol were on the agenda at a meeting in Bishopston, which is one of the first areas that could be affected by the change. Following a vote by the city council in July backing the reduced speed for drivers, the limit could be introduced from September 2013 in central Bristol, which includes Bishopston. The phase one boundary would be Muller Road and Kellaway Avenue, which are not included in the 20mph zone. Inside the boundary, Gloucester Road would be considered for the new limit, which the authority said could benefit the shopping area. A Bristol City Council spokesperson said: “20mph is recognised, not only for its clear safety benefits, but also as a way to

increase walking and cycling. The pilots in Easton and Southville saw a significant increase in both. “The council always looks at local shopping areas to see if they could benefit. Long ribbon-like shopping streets like Gloucester Road can really benefit from slower moving traffic as this improves shoppers' ability to cross to shops on both sides of the street with ease.” Residents who attended December’s Bishopston Neighbourhood Forum heard more on the results of the pilot 20mph zones in Easton and Southville, where a report revealed 82 per cent of residents in the areas supported the lower speed limit. Both areas, which have been subject to a 20mph limit since 2010, saw reductions in the average speed on their roads and more people cycling or walking.

The residents also heard that more than half of collisions in Bristol occur on the city’s main roads. Councillor David Willingham, who chaired the meeting, said including main roads in the scheme could be a source of contention among city residents. He added that he was aware that a number of cyclists had been involved in collisions with vehicles at the junction of Strathmore Road and Churchways Avenue with Gloucester Road. While the subject has been put forward for discussion at Neighbourhood Forums in the area, a formal consultation on the scheme is planned for spring. The scheme will cost £2.3 million to implement across Bristol. For more information, visit www.bristol.gov.uk/20mph or email 20mph@bristol.gov.uk.

Your views

Have you got strong views about what’s happening in Bishopston? Or you might want to take the opportunity to praise a friend, neighbour or family member for an act of kindness or to mark an achievement. Whatever you want to say, write to us and we’ll make sure everyone knows about it. Send your letter by email to emma@ bishopstonvoice.co.uk, by post to Letters, Bishopstonvoice, 16 Chandag Road, Keynsham, BS31 1NR. You can also comment on our stories at www. bishopstonvoice.co.uk. Please keep letters short and the editor reserves the right to edit your letter.

Demolition clears way for library Work will soon get under way on Bishopston’s new library, with developers planning to start the building work this month. The public toilets next to the Bristol North Baths site were demolished during December. This will now clear the way for work to begin on new toilets and the library. The redevelopment of the former pool itself is also on target, with the creation of a new first floor inside the building now complete. Kevin Batt, managing director of Chatsworth Homes, which is

behind the development, said: “Now the car park has closed and the public conveniences which were there have been demolished people will be able to see that things are moving forward.” The project will see the former pool become a health centre with hydrotherapy pool, physiotherapy suite, meeting room, pharmacy and minor surgery room, with a new library next door and 10 apartments. It is expected the development will be complete by autumn 2013.

To advertise, contact Emma on 0117 908 2121 or 07715 770448. Got news? Call Joni on 07887 561567. Email: emma@bishopstonvoice.co.uk

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January, 2013

News

Raise a traditional toast to the trees Residents are invited to raise a “toast to the trees” as volunteers host a traditional wassail at a local orchard. The group behind Horfield Organic Community Orchard will be raising a glass of mulled orchard juice to welcome the new year on Saturday, January 19, from 2-4pm. Pigsty Morris will perform and homemade cakes and orchard juice will be on sale at the wassail, traditionally held to

promote a good harvest in the coming year. Residents are urged to bring ribbons, shiny items and clouties – pieces of cloth – to dress the trees. The orchard can be reached along the lane beside 22 Kings Drive, turn left first gate on the right, or by taking the lane beside 134 Longmead Avenue until you come to the last gate on the left. For more information, email hocohello@gmail.com or visit www.community-orchard.org.uk.

Bishopston councillors Bev Knott, second from right, and David Willingham, fourth from left, with local campaigner Chris Harris, right, Stephen Williams MP, left, and other local councillors at Ashley Hill

Campaigners call for start to rail project Local rail campaigners say they are eagerly awaiting an announcement in the new year which they hope will reveal plans by the Mayor to kickstart the Bristol Metro project. The £100m scheme would see stations reopened over a wide area and half-hourly services across the city. Included are more services for the Severn Beach line, Portishead line opened for passenger traffic and a brand new station next to the Avonmouth Park and Ride. The Metro plan was agreed in July between the Government, Bristol City Council and neighbouring authorities under the City Deal.

In Bishopston and Horfield, LibDem councillors have campaigned for the reopening of stations in Horfield and in Ashley Down, at the bottom of Station Road, and to ensure it will not harm the quality of life of people living near the stations. For this to work, the present two tracks through Bishopston and Horfield would need to be doubled. Local rail campaigner Chris Harris said: “Obviously, George Ferguson has an enormous amount on his plate, but the Metro will have huge benefits for Bristol and should be tackled early. We all look forward to a public announcement early in the New Year.”

To advertise, contact Emma on 0117 908 2121 or 07715 770448. Got news? Call Joni on 07887 561567. Email: emma@bishopstonvoice.co.uk

January, 2013

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Advertising feature

Changing views on eye care I was at a meeting recently being interviewed as a suitable candidate for a community group I help with. One of the interviewers, on hearing I am an optometrist, said: “Don’t say anything about my glasses. My wife’s always saying I should have a sight test… but I can see perfectly well with these.” I let that one go. Was I right? I’m passionate about eye care, but there is a time and a place. At Lynne Fernandes Optometrists we think the semantics are important. We call our service an examination because we look at vision and health. Even if my interviewer can “see perfectly well” they should still have an eye examination. In my role in the new patient clinics at Bristol Eye Hospital I see too many people who waited until they were symptomatic before having an eye examination. Let me say this loudly: “Eye diseases rarely give obvious symptoms in their early stages.” This is particularly true of glaucoma which is well screened for in most opticians and optometry practice, but also for age-related macular degeneration (AMD). This month at Lynne Fernandes Optometrists in our Bishopston practice on the Gloucester Road we are delighted to be able to a free risk assessment for your macula. Let’s consider some facts on AMD:  AMD is Britain’s leading cause of blindness in those aged over 65.  AMD affects some 500,000 people in the UK today, principally those aged 65 years of age or older.  Risk factors include poor diet,

smoking, any family history of AMD and age.  There are two distinct types of AMD (Wet and Dry)  Wet AMD: can be treated if diagnosed early and referred urgently  Dry AMD: it is possible to reduce your chance of developing it and slow its progression. We can give you guidance on how to minimise the likelihood of developing the condition and we urge anyone in this higher risk group to make an appointment. What else is happening at Lynne Fernandes Optometrists this month? At the other end of the age range to those that will benefit from our “free macula risk assessment” are children. We feel part of our remit as a community practice is to educate. With this in mind we’ve had the pleasure having our Bishopston practice filled with 30 small children on regular occasions with our Year 1 school visits. We’re getting fairly experienced at this now with five schools visiting or due to visit this year. We were even given an award by one class for their favourite trip! These are relaxed visits with the classes split into four groups alternating between learning about different aspects of eyes, vision, glasses and their manufacture. We hope to encourage all our local children to be confident in having regular eye checks, also to reinforce the benefits of accurate vision (and, if appropriate, vision correction) to education. My hope is when these kids meet optometrists through work or socially they will have a different view to my interviewer.

Young visitors from a local school find out more about eye checks and looking after their vision during a trip to meet the team at Lynne Fernandes Optometrists

To advertise, contact Emma on 0117 908 2121 or 07715 770448. Got news? Call Joni on 07887 561567. Email: emma@bishopstonvoice.co.uk

January, 2013

Youth and education

A new year, a new look The start of the new year always sees new year resolutions made, and for the Complete Control studio 2013 is the year of a brand new look for us. Our illustration team have been busy creating new Complete Control characters and environments for us to use for a new website launching in February, and for us to use across online games and apps. "It was a really fun end of the year spending some design time on a new look for the agency," said Glynn Hayward, creative director of Complete Control. The new year also sees the development team learning new gaming technologies such as HTML5, which is proving very popular in online games, and we are already under way creating a new game designed for mobile and tablets, in which these new characters play key roles.

Our mobile game, due to be launched in April, is based on the West Country tradition of cheese rolling and sees our lead game character “The Cheese” having to roll all around the world trying to escape from the chasers in fun and quirky fast-paced game. If you would like to be part of helping us test the game this year then please do get in touch and we will be give you more information. Contact glynn@completecontrol.co.uk Happy New Year from all at the Complete Control studio.  Complete Control is a children's interactive production company creating entertaining and engaging content for some of the best-loved children's brands. It is based at Corston, near Bristol.

Your news

We want to know about your school or youth group’s activities, events and successes. If you would like to be featured in Bishopstonvoice, email news@bishopstonvoice. co.uk, call Joni on 07887 561567 or Rebecca on 07912 484405.

To advertise, contact Emma on 0117 908 2121 or 07715 770448.

January, 2013

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Youth and education

Students make new pals over paintings Youngsters from a local secondary school paired up with elderly Bristol residents for a day of art and entertainment. Eight pupils from Redland High School visited Westbury Field Residential Home for the Elderly as part of the Paint Pals initiative. The girls paired up with residents to produce colourful pictures of birds, also enjoying cake and joining in the song Somewhere Over the Rainbow. A spokesperson for the school said: “Watching the girls with their Paint Pals, listening, encouraging and empathising was inspiring and demonstrated just how beneficial this liaison is to both groups.” The Paint Pals scheme encourages communication through art between the elderly in care and young people and is run by the charity Alive!

Ruby and Jeanne work together on their painting

College donates £6,000 to shelter A city shelter for the homeless received a welcome gift just before Christmas from City of Bristol College. Principal Lynn Merilion visited the Julian Trust Night Shelter in St Paul’s to deliver a cheque for £6,000 to Richard Drake, Julian Trust treasurer, and chair Jenny Oates. Staff and students at the college, which has a campus at Ashley Down, raised the money through community events, a sponsored sleep-out and fundraising within the college. The Julian Trust Night Shelter, also known as the Bristol Night Shelter, is an emergency shelter in Little Bishop Street that offers hot food and emergency overnight accommodation for homeless people. It is staffed entirely by volunteers and costs £1,200 per week to keep running and is totally reliant on donations.

To advertise, contact Emma on 0117 908 2121 or 07715 770448. Got news? Call Joni on 07887 561567. Email: emma@bishopstonvoice.co.uk

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January, 2013

News

Scouts group on centenary Arts at the core of schools’ plans Schools inspired by the North Bristol Arts Trail have teamed up to organise their own week of arts events for the community. The initiative - Stimulate Your Senses - aims to showcase local talent and offer activities for the whole family to enjoy. There will also be an arts trail at venues across north Bristol, including large apple sculptures painted by local groups and youngsters. The schools involved – Orchard School Bristol, Filton

Avenue Junior, Filton Avenue Infant and Upper Horfield Primary – have formed the With One Voice Partnership. Partnership manager Helen Howard said: “We want to work with the community to develop a week of art and performance, not just for children but for the whole community, a cross between the North Bristol Arts trail and an Eisteddfod, the traditional Welsh festival.” Visit www.wovp.org.

Youngsters have been celebrating 100 years of Scouting in Bishopston – and now are hoping to find more adult volunteers to ensure it continues for many years to come. The 1st Bishopston Scout Group formed in 2005 with the merger of the 61st and 104th Bristol Scout Groups. The 61st was founded in 1912, so 2012

was the group’s centenary year. To mark the occasion, youngsters from all sections took part in a competition to design a commemorative badge, with the winning badge, above, specially manufactured and presented to every member of the group. Artwork from the youngsters has also been used to create a commemorative tea towel for the event. The year also included a wide range of events, beginning with a family celebration service hosted

by St Bonaventure’s Church to mark the start of the centenary year. In March, children from the Scouts were joined by Beavers, Cubs, Explorers, Rainbows, Brownies and Guides to produce a group Gang Show, which supported several charities. There was also plenty of adventure and activity with visits to the Biblins Youth Campsite on the River Wye and a chance for the whole family to have a taste of the activities enjoyed

To advertise, contact Emma on 0117 908 2121 or 07715 770448. Got news? Call Joni on 07887 561567. Email: emma@bishopstonvoice.co.uk

January, 2013

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News

looks back year of fun

Far left, 1st Bishopston Scouts are joined by Beavers, Cubs, Explorers, Rainbows, Brownies and Guides at their Gang Show; above, the Friday Beaver Colony celebrate their first birthday; left, the Group leaders

by the Scouts at an open day. A spokesperson said: “Our Group open day in June proved to be another great event despite the weather! We had free activities at the Scout hut for all the family – including kayaking, caving, crossbows and more. “We had an October trip to Drayton Manor theme park and 100 young people attended from across the Group to brave the rides and enjoy the attractions throughout the day.” The year was rounded off at

Christmas with family carol singing, mulled wine and mince pies. The group’s spokesperson added: “Huge thanks to our leaders, young people and their families for their support and involvement throughout 2012. “If you would like to get involved in Scouting, we’re looking for adult volunteers to help with our older sections, so please visit our website and get in touch today.” Find out more at http:// 1stbishopston.ukscouts.org.uk/.

To advertise, contact Emma on 0117 908 2121 or 07715 770448. Got news? Call Joni on 07887 561567. Email: emma@bishopstonvoice.co.uk

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January, 2013

Advertising feature

Get creative in the kitchen

Nailsea Electrical is the largest independent retailer of electrical appliances in Bristol and the founder of 102 Cookery School The company was first established by Peter Gilks in a retail shop in Nailsea just outside Bristol in 1982. A few years later, Peter opened a second shop in Bristol on the Gloucester Road and in 1988 was crowned HTV’s Young Businessman of the Year. Nailsea Electrical is still family-owned and is run by father and son team Pete and Ben Gilks. In 2008 the company moved into a stunning church building on the Gloucester Road and three years later won Family Business of The Year. The bold move saw Ben and Peter open the UK’s first built in appliance showroom showcasing more than 300 appliances all of which are fully fitted and working for customers to touch, see and try before they buy. Having seen business grow rapidly by offering customers a unique shopping experience, running weekly cooking demonstrations by Michelin Star chefs, Ben and Peter saw a gap in the market and decided to open a unique cookery school set in the stunning church conversion. Ben Gilks, director of Nailsea Electrical, said: “After expanding our business by opening a fully working showroom we have seen that the public have a genuine interest in food and the methods by which it is cooked to get the best results. We’ve been inspired by this to create a cookery school and kitchen like no other.” 102 Cookery School 102 is a purpose-built cookery school offering a variety of classes in a stress-free, informal atmosphere. Classes run alongside events including guest cookery courses and “demonstration

Photos: Jon Craig

and dine” evenings (with tutored wine tasting) led by the South West’s finest Michelin-starred and AA rosette-rated chefs. There will always be plenty of opportunities to ask questions and gain a full understanding of what you’re learning. In every class or course you’ll get to taste what you’ve made – meaning that at the end of a few hours in the kitchen you’ll be able to enjoy

the results in our relaxing dining area. Whether you’re an individual looking to brush up on your skills, a toast burner willing to learn something new or a corporate group looking for an alternative team-building event, 102 Cookery School is the perfect solution. We also run private classes and children’s events, letting

them make a mess in someone else’s kitchen for a change! With courses ranging from knife skills, to wild food foraging feasts you won’t be stuck for choice. Courses are designed to suit beginners as well as experienced cooks and our fresh approach to cooking and exciting classes will be sure to ignite a passion for something you didn’t know you had. How does it work? It’s simple! 102 Cookery School provides the chefs, the ingredients, the aprons, the knives and state-ofthe-art Samsung equipment! You simply don your apron, roll up your sleeves and get stuck into some creative cookery, learning dishes that you will want to recreate at your home for family and friends! Hands-on classes typically last four hours and you will always create a minimum of three dishes. Your chef team will demonstrate the dishes before you go to your own station and with our guidance recreate them. When the cooking is finished you will have the chance to sit back at our restaurant table and enjoy your creations over a glass of wine and friendly chat with the chef team. As always you will leave with recipe cards for all the dishes you have cooked and a voucher to put towards a future class. Maximum class sizes are eight people and you each have your own station complete with state-of-the-art Samsung built-in ovens, steam ovens and induction hobs. Best of all, there’s no washing up! All of our classes can also be booked privately for birthdays, corporate or just a group of friends looking for a fun night out. Private bookings are bespoke and arranged on a date that suits you.

To advertise, contact Emma on 0117 908 2121 or 07715 770448. Got news? Call Joni on 07887 561567. Email: emma@bishopstonvoice.co.uk

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January, 2013

News Making plans to tackle icy streets The city council may turn to traders along Gloucester Road to help keep parts of the busy shopping street clear in the event of snow. The authority has 42 fully trained snow wardens covering hilly residential areas of the city, but will also be appealing to businesses to volunteer to tackle the most dangerous areas of pavement in shopping and business areas. Around 750 grit bins are in place around Bristol for use by pedestrians and residents, many of whom volunteered as snow wardens in vulnerable areas last year. There are also plans to make up to 100 community grit dumps if heavy snow is forecast. Seven new grit lorries are ready to respond to cold weather after being unveiled at the Hartcliffe depot, ready to carry out salting on the city’s main routes. Visit the council’s snow and extreme weather pages at www. bristol.gov.uk/snow.

Taste for a challenge? Hungry residents looking for a warming meal during the chilly winter months might find they’ve bitten off slightly more than they can chew at a Gloucester Road restaurant. Daring diners have been lining up to try a giant, spicy burger produced by Atomic Burger, which opened its Bristol branch in July. The meal includes three burgers, sandwiched between two pizza buns, and fries, finished off with a scorching chilli sauce made from the Naga Bhut Jolokia chilli and the Scotch bonnet, up to 40 times hotter than Tabasco sauce. Guests must be over 18 and sign a disclaimer before donning their protective gloves and attempting to finish the dish within the hour. In December, restaurant manager Leo Storey took on the challenge along with waitress Katie Mackay and customers Freddie

Manager Leo Storey with the Wall of Flame at Atomic Burger Davenport and Guy Proctor - but all four were beaten by the dish, failing to make it onto the “Wall of Flame”, which bears the names of the diners who have cleared their plates in the fastest time. The challenge has attracted interest nationally, with stories in the press and Channel 4 filming at the Bristol branch.

But co-owner Martin Bunce said the challenge was only ever meant to run for a few weeks as a special. He said: “It was a request from a customer from Texas at our Oxford branch who wanted a challenge. “We didn’t want to be gimmicky, as that’s not what we are about, but this has proved really popular with 700 people trying it so far.” Martin said family links had brought him back to Bristol, where he was told Gloucester Road was the “place to be” for independent outlets. He said: “Gloucester Road has a real friendliness to it – the local businesses were knocking on the door to introduce themselves straight away.” He added: “Staff are all from the area as local knowledge was so important.” Visit http://atomicburger. co.uk/.

To advertise, contact Emma on 0117 908 2121 or 07715 770448. Got news? Call Joni on 07887 561567. Email: emma@bishopstonvoice.co.uk

January, 2013

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News

New homes for a new year? Christmas is barely over but some pets given as gifts will begin the new year looking for a new home, as one animal charity founder knows only too well. Christine Bayka, who runs The Moggery cat rehoming centre in Bishopston, says that every year the phone starts ringing on Boxing Day as people decide they can’t care for their new cat. She said: “The most common situation is that the grandparents arrive for Christmas with a surprise kitten – and the cats that end up with us are the lucky ones. Some are left in boxes or by the side of the road. We always appeal to people not to buy animals as presents – they are an 18-year commitment.” It is 16 years since Christine founded The Moggery, using her own money and attracting what financial support she could from fellow animal lovers. At the time, Christine was working as a teacher, tending to several orphaned kittens in the school boiler room during her breaks. But the “cat work”, as she refers to it, soon became a fulltime occupation. The Moggery costs around £3,000 a month to run, with vets’ bills making up a large proportion as each cat that comes through the door is neutered, microchipped and given the treatment it needs before going to a new home. Regular fundraising events such as an annual auction, Christmas fair, sponsored walk and collections at local supermarkets help to meet some of the costs, as do donations handed over by people adopting a cat from The Moggery. Some cats are sponsored by Bristol residents while one gener-

The cats get plenty of attention from volunteers like Raania ous benefactor, Gerry Dayer, left money to the charity which enabled work to create more room to house the animals – now known as the Dayer Suite. The Moggery is also supported by some rather high-profile patrons, with round-the-world yachtsman Tony Bullimore, broadcaster Piers Morgan and weatherman Ian Ferguson lending their names to the cause. Christine said: “We are very lucky to have our patrons. I contacted Piers after he gave us a book to auction and he wrote back saying ‘count me in’. Tony Bullimore has also opened auctions for us. “Our most hands-on patron is Ian Ferguson who comes to open our fundraising events in

between telling us it’s going to rain. He has also adopted two black cats, which are the hardest to rehome.” With around 10 requests a day to take in cats, the work is non-stop and a small number of dedicated volunteers help to feed the cats and clean up – but more are always needed. And even after so many years running the charity Christine says the cruelty and callousness of some people still “takes your breath away”. But there is satisfaction in finding new homes for cats and plenty of moments to raise a smile. Christine said: “I thought the name The Moggery was selfexplanatory but over the years

we have been asked to take in a golden eagle, a pig, and two goats. Once we were even asked to take a horse and I had to explain it probably wouldn’t fit through the front door.” She added: “Naming the cats is my perk, too. Sometime I have a theme, like Christmas, or I name them for the months. “Any cats that come in on May 4 get a Star Wars-related name, or during the General Election politicians’ names. “We even once, in desperation, used tomato varieties and called one cat that kept biting us Jersey Devil.” This month, the charity is launching its Moggery 500 appeal, which aims to find 500 people who will sign up to donate £2 or more each month to the charity, which will cover vital expenses such as dry food and litter. There are also plenty of opportunities to get involved with the charity, from sponsorship to taking care of the cats, transporting them to the vets or even visiting the animals in their new homes. And, of course, the charity is always happy to hear from anyone who is prepared to make the commitment and offer a home to a new feline friend. Contact The Moggery on 0117 924 3128 or visit www.the moggeryrehomingcentre.org.

ADVERTISING FEATURE

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great value for all diets. Ingredients are selected from carefully approved suppliers and are then prepared by a team of nutritionists and award-winning chefs in their Wiltshire kitchens. Convenience is a key part of the Wiltshire Farm Foods offering. Orders can be placed over the phone or online and

are delivered by friendly, local drivers who are always happy to put the meals away in the freezer, meaning that a hot meal is only ever a few minutes away. For more information about Wiltshire Farm Foods you can contact 01275 371993 or visit www.wiltshirefarmfoods.co.uk for a free brochure.

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January, 2013

What’s On January January 10 Bishopston Horfield and Ashley Down Local History. A talk by Melvin Wood, a civil engineer who works in the Environment Agency and is in charge of providing and maintaining the flood defences across Bristol. In this talk he will explain some of the historical aspects of how Bristol has developed around its rivers and how flood risk will be a challenge for the future, starts at 7.30pm at the Friends Meeting House, Hampton Road, BS6 6JE. Members £2 (voluntary) non-members £5

January 13 Horfield Methodist Messy Church, Churchways Avenue, Horfield. 11 am-1 pm. Creative activities, arts, crafts, a simple meal. For accompanied children of any age. Free entry but donations towards costs welcome.

January 19 Wassail at Horfield Organic

or: michesaunders@hotmail. com.

Have you got an event you would like to publicise? Or do you run a club or society in the Bishopston area? Send details to emma@bishopstonvoice.co.uk or call us on 07715 770448 and we will make sure thousands of people in Bishopston know about it. Community Orchard. Toast the trees. Homemade cakes and mulled orchard juice for sale. Make merry with Pigsty Morris. Find out how to join and support a pioneering local food project. 2-4pm. www.community-orchard. org.uk for details.

Road Baptist Church 12-2pm. A monthly meeting point for senior citizens. The first Tuesday of every month. Lunch will be served at a cost of £2.50 followed by coffee and fellowship. Transport can be arranged. Tel: 0117 942 5669

What’s on in Bishopston on a regular basis

KudaCan, 7 Dongola Avenue, Bishopston, BS7 9HG. Join the Bishopston Mum for an NCT Cafe every second and fourth Tuesday of the month, 10.15 11.30am, you can drop in any time during this slot.

Thursdays

Mondays The Flyer Quiz night. 96 Gloucester Road, Bishopston, Bristol, BS7 8BN. Tel: 0117 9441658

Tuesdays Food and Friends at Cairns

Gloucester Road Women’s Institute. A great mix of interesting women who meet on the third Tuesday of the month at 8pm, in Halo on Gloucester Road (doors at 7.30pm). Come along to one of our meetings and see what we’re all about. Membership for the year costs £33 or you can visit up to three times for just £4 per meeting. Email: GloucesterRdWI@yahoo.com for more info or to join our mailing list.

Bristol Ladies’ Hockey Club. A friendly club based at Orchard School, Filton Road. Training on Tuesday 7.30 – 9pm, play on Saturdays. All ages welcome. If you would like to join us contact Michelle on 07980 598761

Bristol Ladies’ Choir sings a wide range of music from classical to light. The choir rehearses weekly and gives two main concerts each year. The choir also participates in approximately nine to 10 other concerts in the Bristol area each year. Meet at 2.15pm - 3.45pm at Church of the Good Shepherd, Bishop Road, Bishopston, BS7 8NA. New members welcome. For more information contact Hazel on 0117 9246587 or visit www.bristolladieschoir. org.uk

In the Garden with our Homegrown Hellebores give us a gentle reminder, in the new year, of colours in the garden, which calls to mind preventative action to be taken now. Cut back all leaves from the plant and bin them or burn them, do not compost them. Cutting back the leaves helps prevent the black spot fungus from developing, and also combats a virus known as the Black Death. Also, I read, removal of the leaves dissuades mice from sheltering and attacking the new shoots. In spring it is recommended to mulch the plants with bark, to prevent rain from splashing from the ground and transmitting the damaging spores. Amazing what I keep learning! Autumn, and leaves begin

to fall. We have apple, plum and pear trees in the garden and they have all shed their leaves. Pear leaves are a problem because they seem to stay wet and lie flat on the ground. Apple leaves are dry and crinkled, plum leaves are small and no problem. I clear the leaves on a regular basis. I have a big plastic rake which makes short work of then into piles. I dump them in a shallow trench and about once a month I turn the pile and add moisture to keep them damp. This time next year I will have a small amount of a fine black residue, about four large buckets full. This is quite nutritious and I mix it with spent compost and add it to tubs etc. Many people use black bags

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What’s On Sundays The Cambridge Arms. Love a good quiz? Then check out our ever popular test of trivia every Sunday at 8.30pm at Coldharbour Road, Redland, BS6 7JS

Toddler and baby groups Mondays Ardagh Toddlers 10-11.30am, Ardagh Club House, Horfield Common. £2.50, no additional charges for extra children.

Tuesdays Piglets Carers and Toddler Group 9.45-11.15am (Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday) St Michael’s Church, Gloucester Road, Bishopston. £2. Tel. Kay 0117 9241187 if you would like to attend Toddler Tunes 10am-10.45 or 11-11.45am, Brynland Avenue Baptist church, Bishopston. £3 per child.

Competition Baby Clinic Drop-in breastfeeding support and sensory play. 10.30am-12.30pm. Horfield Baptist Church, Brynland Ave, Bishopston BS7 8NY. Crawlers (Babies between 8 and 15 months). 1.30-3pm. St Michaels and All Angels Church, 160a Gloucester Road, Bishopston BS7 8NT.

Wednesdays Toddler Tunes 10-10.45am or 11- 11.45am, Brynland Avenue Baptist Church. £3 per child Rocket Tots (children 2-5 years). 13.30 - 14.45. Church of the Good Shepherd, Bishop Road, BS7 8LS. Tel. Joy Bray 0744 602 1516. St Bon’s Baby and Toddler Group 1.30- 3pm, St Bonaventure’s Church, Egerton Road, Bishopston. £1 per child

Thursdays & Fridays Chatterbox Playgroup 1- 3pm, Brynland Avenue Baptist Church, Bishopston. £1.50.

WIN £50 to spend on a cookery class at 102 Cookery School has teamed up with Bishopstonvoice to offer our readers the chance to win a £50 voucher to spend on a cookery class. From sauces to sushi and from thai to tapas, the state-ofthe-art kitchens host classes to suit all tastes. The cookery school, in Gloucester Road, also welcomes children, who are invited Photo: Jon Craig

to come along ke a mess of and make someone else’s kitchen during hands-on workshops for Junior Chefs (ages 11-16) and Little Chefs (ages 5-10). To be in with a chance of winning the £50 voucher to spend on a cookery class, answer the following question: What’s the name of the children’s cookery class teacher? The answer can be found on 102 Cookery School’s website www.102cookeryschool.co.uk, along with much more information on the classes on offer. Email your answer, along with your name and contact details, to emma@bishopston voice.co.uk. The closing date for entries is Friday, January 25, 2013.

Gardener for leaves but I do not find this successful. As long I get something for nothing a little effort is worth it. Leaves are trembling on the bough Waiting for the autumn fall Having spent their natural life now Apple, pear and hawthorn, small Soon the carpet masks the grasses Covering the blades of green Nature knows the time that passes Removing all that we have seen Then let’s look for signs of life and Searching branches far and near Realise what is to hand

The start of another gardening year. Do you make compost? Something very necessary for the garden. I find great pleasure in creating good compost, useful for improving the soil, and adding to spent commercial compost. The fact that it comes free, just by using all the waste foliage, grass and kitchen vegetable remains gives it a value. It takes two years for it to become friable and moist.After the first year I turn it into a second bay and cover it, and then start again in the first bay. The pleasure of digging it out (apart from the backache) and working it into the soil in the beds and borders is immense.

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January, 2013

Bishopston’s Bishopston Crafts Best... flapjack Profile: Sarah Knight, illustration/graphic design

Winner

This month our taste-testers tucked into the healthy(ish) oat-packed packed snack that is the flapjack to find their Gloucester Road favourite. The Breadstore’s buttery flapjack (70p) and Joe’s Bakery’s chocolate-dipped flapjack (90p) were ideal for grabbing on the go, while the Relax Coffee Lounge’s flapjack (£1.75) went down well with a warming drink as we watched the world go by from the cafe. But this month’s winner was The Olive Shed Shop’s chocolate-topped flapjack (£1.95), with the addition of coconut tipping the scores in its favour. Oat-standing!

I studied illustration at university, which is where I learned to screen print and cemented my love for drawing. When I graduated in 2006 I started working full-time as a graphic designer but carried on illustrating on the side, having published illustrations for The Guardian and Jamie Oliver’s magazine. I started selling handprinted cards to local stockists such as the Here gallery in Stokes Croft and then set up Stormy Knight in 2010 as the number of designs I had grew. I like to add a dose of British humour to all of my designs and hope that they offer something a bit different to the greeting card market – and everything is printed on my signature recycled manilla card stock! I now sell over 30 card designs as well as notepads, prints, gift wrap and tea towels (the newest addition to Stormy

Knight!) and stock a number of different independent retailers across the country. I’m launching 12 new card designs in January 2013 and will be developing many more as the year goes on! Visit www.stormyknight. co.uk.  Are you a local artist or craftsperson? Tell us about your talent and feature in our monthly Bishopston Crafts slot.

Puzzles Sudoku

Solutions on Page 23 To advertise, contact Emma on 0117 908 2121 or 07715 770448. Got news? Call Joni on 07887 561567. Email: emma@bishopstonvoice.co.uk

January, 2013

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Bishopston Kitchen

with Nick Hennessy from Delmonico, 217 Gloucester Road, Bishopston. Tel: 0117 944 5673

White Chocolate and Coconut Cheesecake Ingredients 400grm Digestive Biscuits 200grm Butter 125grm Dessicated Coconut 250ml Double Cream 250grm Caster Sugar 500grm Mascarpone 500grm CrĂ¨me Fraiche Zest of 1 Lemon 1200grm Good Quality White Chocolate Method Grease a 10-inch spring form cake tin with butter and line the base with baking parchment. In a plastic bag crush the digestive biscuits. Melt butter in a saucepan, add the zest of lemon and crushed digestive biscuits. Mix until all the butter is absorbed, cool then firmly push in to the cake tin to form a compressed biscuit base. Beat together the mascarpone, caster sugar, crĂ¨me fraiche, double cream and dessicated coconut Melt the white chocolate in

a bowl over steaming water. Once melted, fold in the beaten mixture. Pour the mixture on to the

biscuit base and level with a palette knife. Cool the cheesecake in a fridge for two or three hours

or until firm. Serve with chocolate sauce or fruit sauce such as raspberry or strawberry.

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News

Pool campaign gets new patron An appeal to create a hydrotherapy pool at a Redland school has a new patron – Bristol West MP Stephen Williams. The Starfish Pool Appeal aims to raise £1 million to build the facility at Claremont Secondary School, which caters for children from two to 19 years old with a range of disabilities or learning and health needs. Mr Williams said: “The pool would have an immensely positive effect on disabled children in Bristol. I’m delighted to become a patron of the appeal and I urge all Bristolians to do what they can to reach the target for this very worthy cause”. The appeal is run by a team of volunteers, the Friends of Claremont School. Chairman of the appeal David Giles said: “The city council has committed £100,000 to the project which will have a dramatic effect on the quality of life for so many disabled young people. This will be a community resource. For disabled young people a hydrotherapy pool is at least a means of alleviating pain and at best freedom of movement.” Visit www.starfishpoolappeal. org.uk to find out more.

Takeaway part of ambitious plan An ambitious Bristol entrepreneur has opened four Chinese takeaways since November, with one opening on Gloucester Road. James Liang now has seven Hotcha outlets from Bishopston to Weston-super-Mare, including the original Baldwin Street outlet and Whiteladies Road. Commenting on his expansion plans, James said: “These are seriously exciting times for Hotcha. We have ambitious growth plans and aim to be the number one takeaway chain in the UK in the next few years. “I was confident that Bristol would be the ideal place to launch the initial stores due to its love of eclectic international dishes with a healthy twist.” The chain prides itself on not using controversial ingredient monosodium glutamate in its food. Hotcha currently employs 40 people in the South West, with the new openings creating a further 130 jobs.

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January, 2013

Taking our pick from nature’s finest foods It looked like a strawberry, only smaller. And on closer examination at home it tasted like one, too. But it didn’t come from a plastic punnet on a supermarket shelf or even from a plant grown in someone’s back garden. It was just there, beside a path where hundreds of people walk and cycle each week who, like me, probably wouldn’t know they were there. But one person with a keen eye for everything edible growing in the wild is Chris Westgate, owner of Heavenly Hedgerows, which produces food and drinks made from wild fruit and berries found around the Bristol area. I met Chris on a wet weekday morning on a stretch of the Bristol to Bath cycle path. She had been out since 6.30am and had already foraged a basket of goodies to turn into jams, jellies and other products. Barely a few metres along the path and Chris had pointed out enough plants among the greenery to at least make the basis of a foraged feast, including nettles for soup, elder for cordials, jams and other sweet treats, and hawthorn, whose leaves are a forgotten staple that used to be referred to as “bread and cheese”. And beneath the leaves of plants that spread as far as I could see along the path, were those tiny wild strawberries hidden from view. Growing up in New Zealand and enjoying the outdoors life means Chris has always been in touch with what nature can offer. She said: “People are scared and think everything is poisonous – but there is so much edible stuff out there. Also, people either don’t have time or have lost the art of cooking – and that’s half the problem as you need to know how to use the things you forage. “Foraging is in us all, we have all picked blackberries. It unearths the Neanderthal in us all and a love of being out in the countryside. It’s an in-built thing to want to pick things.” With nature in hibernation now, there should be some time for rest after the autumn rush to

Chris Westgate, top, elderberries, centre left, a wild strawberry, centre right; above, consulting a book to identify poisonous plants pick, prepare and pack goodies and then the busy Christmas period. Chris said: “Autumn is manic. I get up early and can still be cooking into the early hours as there’s so much to do in a short time.” As well as examining what’s growing at the side of the path, Chris also keeps an eye on what’s fallen onto the walkway from the trees overhead, stopping suddenly when she spots a hazelnut on the ground and searching out its source. So, after my introduction to

wild food I can say that for those in the know there really is such a thing as a free lunch. Joni Mann  Heavenly Hedgerows’ produce, subject to seasonal availability, is stocked in a number of local outlets, including the Better Food Company in St Werburgh’s. For more on Heavenly Hedgerows, visit www.heavenly hedgerows. co.uk, call 0782 878 6513, or email info@heavenly hedgerows. co.uk. The business is also on Facebook and Twitter @heavenly hedgero.

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January, 2013

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News

Great strides for Little Steps By Lauren Winney With most charity shops taking you back to the 1980s and grandma’s attic, Little Steps is a new and modern kind of charity shop selling pre-loved items for under-sevens. Jane Smith, the retail stock generator for Children’s Hospice South West, said: “We tried it out in Truro in Cornwall first, and it worked very well. We then expanded to Bristol, and chose the Redland area, as it has a lot of families with young children. It has a very good community feel and we thought it would be the perfect location.” The shop is located on Zetland Road, and opened in July 2012. Gemma Schofield, 32, the fulltime manager of the Redland charity shop, said: “It is a new kind of charity shop as we tried to achieve a place for somewhere that mums and dads with their children can meet and socialise together. It is also for families in the area that have children with terminal illnesses, to meet other families the same, so they can support each other.” The shop has already got a growing reputation among local shoppers. “Each week we take more money and we have great

feedback from customers,” said Gemma. “A lady came into the shop the other day and said we are the talk of the town. There is a big buzz already and people want to come in to look and shop.”

Catherine, 40, who lives on Bishop Road, off Gloucester Road, was visiting the shop, and said: “This is the first time I have come in here. I think it’s great. “Even though it’s a charity shop it looks like a proper shop.

I have a four-year-old son and it’s perfect as it covers a range of ages.” The Children’s Hospice South West (CHSW) provides hospice care for children with life-limiting illnesses and their families in the South West. One of the ways that the charity raises money is through shops that sell children’s clothes and toys and items for the family, which are specifically located in residential, family areas. CHSW has three charity shops in Bristol, including Little Steps, which is the newest of the stores. Little Steps already has a few regular customers, but Gemma’s future plan for the store is “to get the word out there – I just want to build a bigger customer base”.

Puzzle solutions

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January, 2013

News

Pair rally support for cause Two St Andrew’s residents are rallying support for a fundraising adventure that will see them drive more than 3,600km across the Australian outback this May. But instead of the top-of-therange, all-terrain vehicle that might make short work of such a journey, Greg Udall and Daisy Taylor will be tackling the unforgiving landscape in a car worth less than £650. The pair, who will be racing as the “Budgie Smugglers”, have begun their fundraising drive for the Cancer Council in their hometown, organising a raffle with prizes donated by many Gloucester Road businesses, including vouchers from The Flyer, Halo café, Café Ronak, Ciao Burger, Wish Beauty, Harvest and Fig, haircuts from Moda and wine tasting evenings from Grape & Grind. The raffle raised £150, while a calendar featuring the duo’s friends braving the cold in their

Greg Udall and Daisy Taylor, left; above, Daisy crosses a ford during last year’s rally swimwear has also gone on sale. Daisy took part in last year’s rally in Australia after losing her dad Nick to cancer. Her team raised more than £8,000 for the Cancer Council by completing

the rally, in which the temperatures, dust and unsealed roads thwarted many a fundraiser. She said: “Being on the rally last year and hearing the stories from fellow participants who had

lost family members and friends to this disease has made us even more determined to raise even more money to support this important cause.” Daisy and Greg are holding a fundraising evening on January 11 at Halo, Gloucester Road, where for a £10 donation on the door guests can enjoy music from local band Beyond Rivers and DJs. For more information about the events, as well as how to donate, visit the Facebook page www.facebook.com/TheBudgie SmugglersSBR2013.

Bishopston Mum I am delighted to have been asked to write a regular column for Bishopstonvoice! I am a mum to two young children and was born and raised in this area. I believe Bishopston is a great place to raise children as it provides a wealth of activities and learning experiences. Through starting my blog “Bishopston Mum” in November 2011, I made the wonderful discovery of a love of writing. I enjoy connecting with others through writing and sharing helpful information. In Bishopstonvoice, I look forward to informing you of new activities for children and families, interesting news and sharing my thoughts as a parent raising children in Bishopston. This month I wanted to tell you about a new group that my children and I have discovered. Rocket Tots is held in The Church of the Good

Shepherd on Bishop Road, Bishopston, every Wednesday afternoon, in term-time from 1.30-2.45pm. It is aimed at parents and carers of children between 16 months and five years and encourages physical activity and healthy lifestyles. I was impressed at the amount of thought put into the session and the range of activities included. What’s more, it is free! I have been avidly following the proposed redevelopment of the new play park at Horfield Common, firstly because

Horfield Common is the nearest park to my house and one that I often take my children to for a burst of fresh air. But it matters to me on a deeper level as this is the park that I used to enjoy when I was little so I have strong memories attached to it. I recently attended a meeting about the new park where local people raised their hopes and concerns. The meeting sparked passionate discussion and proved interesting. Some residents who live nearby complained of noise and litter

being thrown into their th i gardens. Several possibilities were raised, one of which was for the new play park being put in the centre of Horfield Common. I personally agree with moving the play park as I believe it would reduce disturbance to nearby houses. I also think it would be a logical move as then the play park would be next to the car park, public toilets and (hopefully) a cafe at the Ardagh in the future. However, many people felt that the play park should remain in the present location. What do you think? You can contact Mark Gundry, the project manager of the redevelopment, by emailing mark.gundry@bristol.gov.uk or phoning 0117 9223502. Anyway, that’s all from me for this month. Happy new year! www.bishopstonmum.com

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January, 2013

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January, 2013

News ADVERTISING FEATURE

Modern living in new Mews homes

Wedding show to mark 20 years Wedding World, Bristol's largest wedding exhibition, is celebrating its 20th anniversary this year at the Bristol Marriott Hotel in Broadmead on Sunday, January 27. There are over 100 stands offering a vast selection of wedding services for the bride, groom and families. Two choreographed fashion shows take place during the day featuring bridal gowns, men's

formal hire, bridesmaid dresses and Mother of the Bride outfits. Organisers describe the event as a “one-stop wedding shop” with everything needed for that special day. All visitors receive a complimentary drink and free wedding magazines. The exhibition is open from 10.30am-4.30pm, and full information can be found on www. weddingworld.biz.

Clifton Homes is to launch four modern new houses in Bishopston drawing upon years of property expertise and enthusiasm to identify premier building land. With a background in house building that dates from the 1980s, Jonathan Amos of Clifton Homes is no stranger to building upmarket homes. Recently he came across the perfect site in Bishopston and has commissioned four upmarket, yet affordable, three bedroom properties. The two semi detached and two detached homes offer open-plan living and large opening windows overlooking private gardens.

They were designed by top local architect James McCracken. The specification includes high quality timber sash windows, highly energy efficient boilers, deep insulation, and low maintenance design features. The homes will be ready for occupation from June 2013. They will have a 10-year NHBC Warranty and two years after-sales service. Prices start from £325,000. Arundel Mews is within the catchment area for Redland Green School. Call Clifton Homes on 0117 3730077 to arrange a viewing, or download a brochure at www.cliftonhomes.com.

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January, 2013

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Property of the month

Elton Road

ÂŁ289,000 This well-proportioned maisonette situated in the Redland Green catchment area has a private entrance with accommodation over the hall and ground floors. On the hall floor there are two double bedrooms with bay windows, stripped wooden floors and built-in cupboards, and a fantastic contemporary bathroom. On the ground floor there is a dual-aspect living room with bay window to the front, WC and kitchen/dining room with access to a beautifully presented private rear garden enclosed by mature trees and shrubbery, decking area to rear ideal for entertaining, steps to front via a secure gate and storage shed. The property is situated in a

highly sought-after location and is sure to attract considerable interest. For more information,

contact Kendall Harper on 0117 909 4400, email enquiries@ kendallharper.com or visit www. kendallharper.com.

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January, 2013

Planning applications and decisions, December  4 Bishop Road Single storey rear extension  4 Princes Place Single storey rear extension and rebuilding of side porch.  66 Egerton Road Demolition of existing conservatory. Erection of single storey side extension.  Gloucestershire County Cricket Club Nevil Road Alterations to the pavilion building currently under construction in accordance with Planning Consent Reference 09/03891/P.

Conversion of a four storey house into two self-contained flats and one maisonette with associated external alterations.  1 Salisbury Road Prune in order to re-form/balanace/shape of an ash tree in front garden.  44 Redland Court Road New rear single storey extension to form orangery.

 107 Berkeley Road Rebuild and upgrade existing garage. Current use as art/music studio and storage to remain unchanged.

 St Bonaventures Catholic Primary School Non Material Amendment of planning permission 07/05698/F for the removal of the temporary classrooms and redevelopment of the school site to provide a replacement school for 420 children together with external play and sports facilities.

 Rear Of 173 North Road Proposed two storey dwelling .  12 Pine Grove Place

Decisions  Gloucestershire County Cricket Club Nevil Road Amendments to the south-west

and eastern elevations of the control room/office/club shop building including internal reconfiguration of the layout. Granted subject to conditions

sion with front velux rooflights and rear dormer together with new “Orangery” to rear of property.

 129 A & B Bishop Road Proposed front and rear roof extension and conversion to form a self-contained flat. Refused

 78 Claremont Road Application for removal or variation of a condition following grant of planning permission. Condition 9 (List of approved plans). Application 11/05335/F Demolition of existing dwellinghouse and garages and construction of 6 dwellinghouses. Granted

 Rear Of 126 Downend Road Change of use from Garage/ Store to single dwelling incorporating new dormer to roof. Refused

 1 Tyne Road Proposed erection of 1no. dwelling on land to rear of 1 Tyne Road. Withdrawn

 126 Downend Road Single storey side extension. Refused

 70 Gloucester Road Change of Use from Launderette (Sui Generis) to Bakery/ Coffee shop (Use Classes A1/ A3) and alterations to the shop front. Disposal (Article 36)

 45 Springfield Avenue Single storey rear extension. Granted subject to conditions

 44 Redland Court Road Reconfiguration of existing roof to incorporate a new loft conver-

To advertise, contact Emma on 0117 908 2121 or 07715 770448. Got news? Call Joni on 07887 561567. Email: emma@bishopstonvoice.co.uk

January, 2013

E: news@bishopstonvoice.co.uk

Business of the month

For January, we meet Karina Hall, owner of party company Bubbletastic Tell us about your company. Bubbletastic organises soap making and craft parties for adults and children. I started this party business in 2011 and since then have hosted parties for over 750 children in Bristol and the surrounding area. I have also run sessions for adult crafts, hen parties, holiday clubs and brownie packs. It is fun for everyone from five to 75! What service do you provide to the people of Bishopston? I come along to your home or venue, with plenty of enthusiasm, plus my boxes full of equipment, aprons and tablecloths. I run a party for six-14 children (or adults) where they make their own soap, bath bombs, bubble bath and lip balm. They choose their own shapes, colours, petals and smells. Everyone decorates their party bag and takes home what they have made. Parties last about two hours, including a short break for party food and drinks. Everyone gets involved and does something new. The house smells lovely and there really isn’t any mess afterwards. It keeps the children occupied and having fun. What is the best part of running your business and working in this area? The excitement and buzz of the party guests. They just love making the soaps and bath bombs themselves. The feedback has been fantastic. My favourites include Genevieve, seven, who said: “What I liked best about the party was… everything.” One mum, Louise, said: “Afterwards all the girls were telling their

parents how much they enjoyed themselves and proudly showing off their goodie bags. My daughter said the party exceeded her expectations and was her best one yet! I look forward to our bathroom smelling lovely for weeks to come.” And my personal favourite comment was from an eight-year-old who told me: “You have the best job in the whole world, because you

get to go to parties all the time!” What makes your service different from other companies? My parties are great fun but also calm. I provide a tried-and-tested party activity and timing plan, which works really well, every time. Everyone gets involved and has great gifts to take home and use themselves. They are proud of what they have made.

What are your plans for the future of the business? I am currently investigating a craft party where the children make and paint items to take home. I am also interested in expanding outside the area and have contractors running parties in other towns such as Taunton, Swindon, Exeter and Cardiff, as I get a lot of inquiries from outside this region. Contact: Karina Hall on 07595 350 764, email party@bubble tastic.co.uk or visit the website www.bubbletastic.co.uk.  Would you like your business to be our Business of the Month? Call Emma Cooper on 0117 908 2121 to discuss.

To advertise, contact Emma on 0117 908 2121 or 07715 770448. Got news? Call Joni on 07887 561567. Email: emma@bishopstonvoice.co.uk

T: 0117 908 2121

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January, 2013

Sport

Rugby club calls for players by Rebecca Day Bishopston Rugby Football Club are looking for new members to join their team. From doctors to students, the club is made up of an array of individuals. “We’re looking for players to join us from experienced to the complete novice,” says Jonathan Martin, a member of Bishopston RFC. “We’re well supported by old players, and have a really good mix of people - everyone enjoys the company in the clubhouse after games.” Jonathan confirms that the club runs two to three teams, each accommodating for players with different abilities. Bishopston RFC put two sides forward every Saturday, and three when the club has enough numbers. The 1st XV is for those who are able to play at a higher and more experienced level. The second and third teams are for the more social players.

A scrum during Bishopston RFC’s recent cup win over Nailsea and Backwell “We have struggled a bit this season,” says Jonathan. “The 1st XV currently play in Gloucester 1 and we’re eighth out 12.” The team has won four out of 11 games, and have drawn once. The team were unfortunately relegated last season after their first season in the Gloucester Premier Division. Jonathan adds that the 2nd XV are doing adequately in their Reserve League.

Located on a floodlit pitch down Bonnington Walk in Lockleaze, the club practices twice a week on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 7pm until around 8.30pm. The training focuses on increasing fitness, with skill-based drills. Sessions are then followed by food in the clubhouse afterwards. The club is an impressive 118 years old and was originally founded by former pupils of

Bishopston School. Bishopston RFC has been homed at various locations during its history; including the annex on the Memorial Ground. “Our players come from all over Bristol,” says Jonathan. “But we are looking to increase our intake from local areas, including Bishopston and Horfield. We certainly feel the need to improve our links to the area.” If you would like to find out more about the club and how you can join visit: www.pitchero. com/clubs/bishopstonrfc.

Your sport Do you belong to a local sports club or team? Tell us about your activities, events and successes. Email news@bishopstonvoice. co.uk, or call Joni on 07887 561567 or Rebecca on 07912 484405.

To advertise, contact Emma on 0117 908 2121 or 07715 770448. Got news? Call Joni on 07887 561567. Email: emma@bishopstonvoice.co.uk

January, 2013

E: news@bishopstonvoice.co.uk

BUILDING SERVICES

TRADE SERVICES

COMPUTER SERVICES

PLUMBING

DRIVEWAYS

To advertise, call Emma on 0117 908 2121

CARPET CLEANING

LOGS FOR SALE

WINDOWS AND DOORS

To advertise, contact Emma on 0117 908 2121 or 07715 770448. Got news? Call Joni on 07887 561567. Email: emma@keynshamvoice.co.uk