Bishopston Voice April 2017 by Emma Cooper

bishopstonvoice www.bishopstonvoice.co.uk

April, 2017 Issue 53

“...excellence in all it does within and beyond the classroom...” ISI Inspection Report, October 2015

FREE EVERY MONTH IN BISHOPSTON, REDLAND & ST ANDREWS

International cricket is on its way to Bishopston Great story to tell at Fairfield Schools across the area pulled out the stops for World Book Day and none more so than Fairfield High School. PAGE 15

Next chapter is eagerly awaited Book-lovers have been urged to keep a lookout for the long-awaited opening date for Bishopston Library, after the closure of Cheltenham Rd library. PAGE 3

Tale of success for secondary schools ENGLAND internationals Tammy Beaumont and Alex Hartley unveiled the countdown clock to the 2017 ICC Women’s

World Cup. The launch event in Cabot Circus on International Women’s Day revealed that Gloucestershire County Cricket

will host eight international matches at the Bristol County Ground in Bishopston this summer. See Page 4

Bristol's secondary schools have seen a big increase in demand for places. Applications are up 34 per c ent on 2010. PAGE 21

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bishopstonvoice

n NEWS

The Final Forum

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Bishopstonvoice contacts Emma Cooper Publisher

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

Sue Thomas News editor

07976 706120 news@bishopstonvoice.co.uk

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May deadline Our May edition will go to print on April 24. To ensure your news or letter is included, please contact us by April 19. Advertisers are also asked to contact us by the same date.

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

Useful numbers Bristol City Council 0117 922 2000 Citizens Advice Bureau 0844 499 4718 Police www.avonandsomersetpolice.uk General enquiries: 101 Emergency: 999 Fire www.avonfire.gov.uk

April, 2017

THE last Forum of the Bishopston, Cotham and Redland Neighbourhood Partnership (BCRNP) was held on March 16 at Redland Green School. Following the approval of Bristol City Council’s budget for 2017/18 on February 21, the Neighbourhood Partnership (NP) system of locally devolved management is coming to an end in June when a raft of cost cutting measures will be implemented. Councillors have agreed a 4.99% increase in council tax, with 3% of that levy paying for adult social care. The move will bring in just over £9m extra for the council during the year, helping reduce the need for cuts in services. Even with this the council expects to have to save £39.4m during the year to balance its books, and the meeting approved 112 savings proposals worth £33.1m towards achieving this. There was a good turnout for the Forum and plenty of encouragement from councillors for community groups to keep on with their activities. The Street Scene and Parks groups were praised for the noticeable difference their work makes to the area, clearing away litter, painting over graffiti and helping to keep the neighbourhood looking attractive and inviting. Group discussions were held during the evening to discover what people liked about the NP system, what could be done differently and ideas were sought for community involvement after the NP is disbanded. The NP was praised for allowing a two-way conversation

between the council and residents and for giving a sense of belonging to an area. Having neighbourhood officers was considered a great benefit as they have been able to pass on advice, letting people know how they can get things done. Volunteers felt empowered through the NP, giving people, such as those behind Street Scene the validity to carry out the work that they were doing to improve the look of the community. It was acknowledged that better engagement with all age groups in the area is needed to improve community turnout. The discussion included many animated discussions and it was clear that people are keen to carry on as before once the NP is disbanded. An online forum was suggested to help people stay in touch with each other and to find out about local community groups and projects, and there was a suggestion to set up a fundraising arm. Earlier in the evening Sue Mountstevens, gave an interesting talk about her work as Police and Crime Commissioner, and her priority of protecting the most vulnerable in our society and keeping police community support officers on the beat. Ms Mountstevens explained that Avon and Somerset Police have stopped the use of police cells for mentally ill people and have introduced mental health nurses working in call centres to advise the police on what intervention to take. The talk was followed by a lively and interesting question and answer session.

General enquiries: 0117 926 2061 Emergency: 999 NHS Health Call 111 Well Aware (health and social care information) www.wellaware.org.uk Freephone: 0808 808 5252

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 11,250 copies will be distributed around Bishopston, Redland and St Andrews.

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

bishopstonvoice

April, 2017

n NEWS

Suspense as opening date for library is awaited CHELTENHAM Road Library closed its doors for the last time on Monday 27 February. It offered sterling service to the community for over 100 years and a celebratory tea party was held at the library during the last afternoon. Library users enjoyed tea and cake while chatting about their memories of using the library and looking at photos and information about its history. The plans for the new Bishopston Library on Gloucester Road were also on display. Chris Brown from the Library service said: “In the early part of March, library staff put

Cheltenham Road Library ‘to bed’, packing up hundreds of crates and boxes to be moved to the new library. Work is now being done to get Bishopston Library ready for opening – you may have seen the activity through the large plate glass window at the front of the library. “No opening date has been announced yet as there is still a lot to do, but a poster will be displayed in the window of the library and various local media will be contacted to let residents know once the opening date is decided. Follow Bristol Libraries’

Facebook page (Bristol Libraries) or Twitter feed (@BristolLibrary) for updates or check the council’s website – www.bristol.gov.uk/ libraries” Redland councillors Martin Fodor and Fi Hance commented: “We’re delighted to see the library now being filled with books! The counter, shelves, desks, furniture and terminals

are in place, which is very long awaited but great news. There have been delays with data cables - essential connections for library services to start, so these are being chased.” A Friends of Bishopston Library group is being set up to support activities at the library. To register your interest, email denis.wise@bristol.gov.uk

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April, 2017

n NEWS

ICC Women’s World Cup comes to Bristol A FANTASTIC summer of world class sport is coming to Bishopston this year. Marvin Rees was joined by England internationals Alex Hartley and Tammy Beaumont, along with Gloucestershire Cricket chief executive Will Brown and Fi Hance, Cabinet Member for City Health and Wellbeing, to launch the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup countdown clock in Cabot Circus. The high profile launch on International Women’s Day, March 8, unveiled the full match schedule for this summer’s ICC Women’s World Cup including eight matches to be played at the Bristol County Ground. Will Brown, Chief Executive of Gloucestershire County Cricket Club said: “We are absolutely delighted to be playing such a huge part in the ICC Women's World Cup this year and we look forward to bringing such an iconic event to Bristol. “We look forward to

Tammy Beaumont, Mayor of Bristol Marvin Rees, Gloucestershire Cricket Cub chief executive Will Brown, Alex Hartley and Councillor Fi Hance at the launch

welcoming visitors, both local and global, to the City and to the Bristol County Ground - roll on June!" The tournament gets underway on Saturday 24 June with New Zealand v Sri Lanka.

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In what is set to be the highlight of the group matches, England will face the six times and reigning champions Australia at Bristol on Sunday 9 July. A round-robin between the world’s eight best teams will conclude in

Semi-Finals, the first to be held at Bristol on Tuesday 18 July, before the final at Lords on Sunday 23 July. Wicket-keeper and opening bat for England, Tammy Beaumont, said: “I’m really

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

bishopstonvoice

April, 2017

n NEWS excited that it’s on home soil. England are going to do a really good job about putting it on and in particular, Bristol. We played a couple of internationals there last year and the crowd and support that we got from this part of of the country was great. I really can’t wait to see us put it on a world stage - it will really set a new standard for Women’s World Cups.” Alex Harley, aged 23, is an orthodox spinner for England and plays professionally for Lancashire Thunder in the Key Stage League. “It’s the first home World Cup since 1993 and a big thing for us. I’m really looking forward to it,” she said. Speaking at the launch Mayor of Bristol, Marvin Rees, said: “This year we are a European City of Sport, so this couldn’t come at a better time. We want to use our year as a platform to help inspire more local people to take part in sport and active recreation to help create a healthier and happier city. Events like this play an important role in that aim.

“Bristol is a city that is full of active and passionate people and I feel certain that we will see plenty of locals out supporting our England team this summer. I hope that it will inspire more local people to get out and try something new this summer and feel the benefit.” The launch on International Women’s Day also raised the challenge of getting more women into competitive sport. Emily Salvidge from Gloucester County Cricket Club explained: “I think a lot of people get into cricket because they know someone who’s played or there’s a family link. The challenge is how do we get outside of that, get girls playing and engaged in it? “The ECB are involved at a grass roots level introducing more of a social aspect to it for girls and women with a softball league. It’s going and playing after work - taking a similar route to what rounders has done. We also need to get girls into the clubs and know that they can just turn up and play in the league.” Tammy added: “We are very

lucky to be fully supported by the ECB and to play full time and concentrate on our cricket. My dad and my older brother both play cricket and it was a massive family thing with every weekend spent down the cricket club. I got bored watching and started playing. “It’s nice to see that it is taken seriously as a sport these days. Even when I started at the age of ten it’s come such a long way. I barely knew that women’s cricket existed - it was my parents who found that out.” Alex said: “None of my family play cricket but I was on an estate full of boys and they started playing cricket and I joined in. I started and absolutely loved it.” Tickets for all matches, including the Bristol fixtures shown below, are on sale from www.icc-cricket.com/tickets New Zealand v Sri Lanka Saturday 24 June Sri Lanka v Australia Thursday 29 June Australia v New Zealand Sunday 2 July

England v South Africa Wednesday 5 July England v Australia - Sunday 9 July Australia v India - Sunday 12 July England v West Indies Saturday 15 July Semi Final 1 - Tuesday 18 July

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

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bishopstonvoice

April, 2017

n NEWS

Expert views on air quality to feature at public meeting BRISTOL and South Gloucestershire Councils have been awarded almost £500,000 by the Department for Food, Environment and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) to assess and design a Clean Air Zone for the Bristol area. Improving air quality was unanimously supported by a vote at Full Council in February – a clear consensus on the urgent need to clean up the air which we all breathe. The Bishopston Society, in conjunction with Sustainable Bishopston, plan to debate the issues of how air pollution affects our lives in Bishopston, air quality monitoring and what we can do in our community to improve things. The two local community groups are set to welcome three experts who’ve recently written on these subjects; Professor

Jim Longhurst of UWE’s Air Quality Management Resource Centre, Gavin Spittlehouse from Sustainable Bishopston, and Councillor Tom Brook, Labour and Co-op Councillor for Bishopston and Ashley Down. The meeting is on Tuesday April 4 at 7pm at Gloucestershire Cricket Ground, Nevil Road, BS7 9EJ. Spokesman for the society, Nick Plant said: “We’re glad to have taken forward recent coverage of this important topic by featuring three expert articles in our newsletter and on our web site, and we’re delighted that Jim, Gavin and Tom all agreed to come along in person to stimulate debate.”

The special event will also include responses from members, a workshop session for visitors to decide what we can do about the problem, and other community contributions, as well as the legendary Bishopston Society Open Forum, and a chance to meet others and mingle over free refreshments. Admission is free to members, only £2 for non-members on the door – no need to book. Further details, and the full text of all three expert articles on air quality in the global context, measuring and responding to pollution, and how Bristol City Council can respond, can be found at www.bishopstonsociety. org.uk.

Well done for Keep Bristol Tidy efforts REDLAND councillors, Martin Fodor and Fi Hance, would like to give a big thank you to everyone who joined in the recent Spring Clean efforts by the Streetscene group and Keep Bristol Tidy. Martin said: “Everyone can play a part in keeping streets free from litter, and reporting things like fly-tipping and tagging. Without the voluntary efforts of people locally things would rapidly deteriorate, as there’s sadly too much flytipping and litter dropped in our area. “Well done to all the volunteers tidying side streets near Gloucester Road, areas like Cotham Gardens and Redland Green! 50 sacks of rubbish were collected from across BS6 and BS7 in one morning.” Contact info@bcrnp.org.uk with the subject streetscene to get involved.

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

bishopstonvoice

April, 2017

n NEWS

Special school told to improve by Ofsted A SCHOOL for children with special needs, which faced closure a year ago, remains in need of improvement, Ofsted says. Inspectors visited St Christopher’s school on The Downs in Westbury Park and ruled that leadership, the quality of teaching and pupil outcomes all needed to get better. The independent school teaches 27 children with severe and complex learning difficulties, including autism spectrum disorder, global developmental delay, epilepsy and cerebral palsy. Most of the youngsters, who are aged between five and 19, also live on site in residential buildings. Principal Louise TullyMiddleton said: “It is still less than a year since Aurora took over ownership of St Christopher’s and in that time good progress has been made to raise the quality of care and education provided, but more

still needs to be done. “When Aurora decided to acquire St Christopher’s School the school was losing money and was heavily in debt and had slipped into Inadequate rating with Ofsted and the trustees had

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decided to give notice to parents and local authorities of closure in March 2016. “We knew when we took over that there were challenges and that it would take time, investment and we would need to make significant changes to turn the fortunes of the school around. “This new report recognises that we are on a clear pathway to success and highlights important issues that need to be addressed.” The school was taken over by the Aurora Group, which runs seven special schools across the country, and since then a redevelopment programme has been underway to modernise the school and residential buildings. So far £700k has been spent in the last seven months. As well as bespoke classrooms, the £79k-a-year school boasts a hydrotherapy pool, climbing wall and sensory garden. The Ofsted inspectors spotted many positives about the school, with the report stating: “Pupils receive some very exciting and suitably demanding teaching. However, this is not consistently the case. “Staff care about the pupils in the school and get to know their characters. They work hard to help pupils who are anxious or distressed.” But the report also noted that maths and English tuition wasn’t good enough, and that pupils are helped too much and not given enough chance to do things

for themselves. Inspectors also heard that some parents were not happy with changes at the school since the Aurora Group took over. Mrs Tully-Middleton said: “We are confident that the ambitious improvements we are currently implementing will lead to the delivery of an Outstanding rated school. “The Aurora Group has already committed £4.5m investment to improving the infrastructure at St Christopher’s with renovations and improvements to the teaching and residential accommodation and the outdoor space. Sea Mills House, formerly the closed Alveston House, is now open and occupied and sets the bar for the quality of accommodation children will be living in. “We’ve allocated a further £500,000 for staff training and development which is essential to being able to meet needs and enable the children to achieve their full potential and prepare them for adulthood. “Since September, we have welcomed 37 new care staff to St Christopher’s and although Ofsted noted an over-reliance on agency staff which we agree with, we’ve reduced this in January to 7.6% of total hours from 10% in December. “Our training programme has been developed to include awareness and specialist training relating to special educational needs, with particular focus on the areas of designation for the school.”

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

April, 2017

n GLOUCESTER ROAD NEWS

bishopstonvoice

Spring start for Gloucester Road new businesses Spring is here and Gloucester Road Central is blooming in all sorts of ways. The planters have been full of daffodils throughout March and other plants are bursting into life. The planters were created last year by the Avon Wildlife Trust in order to create a 'green corridor' along our high street and keep both customers and the bees happy. Traders are now responsible for the planters outside their shops. Local gardener Lucy Clements has offered to help traders get their pavement planters into shape for the summer. Lucy has a local gardening business and is also as an active volunteer at Golden Hill Community Garden. As well as plants flourishing, the shops are growing as well. New additions this month include an interior designer, a barbers and vinyl shop, a dessert and tea palace and a new gift shop. The shop owners have also been winning awards and prizes. Sarah Thorp, owner of Room 212 and organiser of Glos Rd Central, was recently nominated as a Local Legend by national Independent

stop, have a browse and support our local traders. The banners will also be a celebration of our wonderful community and everyone who lives and works here. Take a look at the Gloucester Road Central website and follow the link to the Gloucester Road Art Banners facebook. You can then 'like' your favorite ones and add your comments. Then watch out for news of when the banners will go up www.glosrdcentral.co.uk n n n n

Bristol Pound Map

Retailers organisation Revive & Thrive. She submitted an application on behalf of Glos Rd Central and won top prizes at the recent national Revive and Thrive convention and award ceremony. One of the prizes is a giant interactive Advent Calendar from City Dressing - something to look forward to next Christmas! Nuala Morey Hair and Beauty and Room 212 are both finalists in the Bristol Life Awards - as are The Grace and Bakers & Co further down Gloucester Road. The winners will be announced on April 27th so fingers crossed for everyone. n n n n

Gloucester Road Art Banners Local artists have been busy creating some amazing artwork to reflect the brilliant things about the Gloucester Road area. The artwork will be displayed on giant art banners up on lampposts along the high street. Some fantastic ideas have been put forward and the Gloucester Road traders are asking for your help to decide the best ones. The aim is to brighten up the high street and encourage visitors to

Bristol Pound are creating a free map of Gloucester Road to include all the local businesses accepting the B£. This is the first in a series of maps to be created for Bristol. The Bristol Pound is real money designed to support independent businesses in and around Bristol. The map will be designed using artwork submitted for the Gloucester Road Art Banners and will be launched at the Gloucester Road Central Mayfest with a Meet the Artist event to be held at the 212 Eco House. n n n n

Get set for Mayfest

9 project which turns donated surplus produce & fruit & vegetable gluts that might otherwise be wasted into delicious preserves. Every month they donate funds raised from preserves sales to a different local charity so the sales at Mayfest will go to Golden Hill Community Garden. They will have a stall outside Joe’s Bakery and have also offered jam for the scones at temporary cafe at the 212 Eco House on Bishop Lane. If you haven't had the opportunity to look round the lovely Eco House then Mayfest is your chance. The house, built entirely from sustainable and recycled materials is rented out as a guest house but will be open to visitors on the day with lovely homemade tea and cakes on sale in the garden. Glos Rd Central traders will be participating in Mayfest by setting up stalls and activities outside the shops. There'll be lots of food, drink and creativity for everyone all day long. It’s a wonderful day to be out and about on Gloucester Road, meeting your friends and neighbours and celebrating the arrival of summer. If you'd like to have a stall or perform at the Glos Rd Central Mayfest then get in touch with Sarah at Room 212 newtwist@mail. com

The Golden Lion pub and Room 212 are organising our annual Mayfest which will be held on May 6. As usual the day will be a celebration of the local community, culminating in the arrival of traditional Jack in the Green and his procession of dancers and musicians. Bishop Road will be closed to traffic to make the event safe for Jack in the Green to stop and dance and for stalls and activities to take place. There will be live music from local choirs including Bishop Road Community Choir and up-beat bands Paruski and Slimline Shufflers. The Bishopston Garden Society will be selling plants in aid of Bristol's refugees and there'll be other gardening opportunities from Lucy Clements and the Golden Hill Community Allotments. Billy Jean clothes will return with their Cashmere Event and other local makers will have stalls. Bristol Jam Plan is a community

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

bishopstonvoice

April, 2017

n FROM OUR LOCAL MP

HMP Bristol deserves respect

Thangam Debbonaire column

ONE of the largest estates in Bishopston is Her Majesty’s Prison Bristol. Some of you will be neighbours, or have allotments in the site immediately behind. You may also have friends who work there, or perhaps you do yourself. I expect everyone is aware it’s there, though may not have ever been inside. I recently visited the prison and was shown around the whole estate by one of the prison officers. I got to speak to some of the men who are imprisoned there, as well as people who work there in a variety of roles. This included going into the kitchens and workshops where men do various forms of paid work, meeting mental health workers, and seeing how the prison responds to an inmate being threatening to others. I also spent an hour with the governor talking about how he runs the prison and what has changed in the last few years; and another hour with union representatives from the Prison Officers’ Association. I want to express my support to

Governor Steve Cross and his team. They do a hard job, with many risky or unpleasant elements, as well as the satisfaction of helping someone turn their life around. I’m not sure how many of us could do this job. Yet they are public servants – just as people who work in schools or the health service are public servants. They deserve our respect and support and we need to include them whenever we talk about the public sector. Like some parts of the public sector the prison service has faced cutbacks and other problems in recent years. Prisoners and staff told me about difficulties in getting maintenance for things like broken windows or furniture since that part of the prison has been taken on by outside contractors. This affects morale for both prisoners and staff, and also affects safety – a critical challenge for prisons, where safety is inherently an issue. That’s largely due to the nature of the crimes some prisoners have committed and the mental health and other stresses they often come

with. The prisons minister recently announced increases in funding for some prisons and HMP Bristol is one of those granted some money for extra staff. However, this is after years of cutbacks that have shrunk staffing and reduced employment and training, essential for rehabilitation. I’m not satisfied that our prisons have adequate ratios of staff to carry out the full range of work needed to provide a safe regime with opportunities for rehabilitation. A Prisons and Courts Bill is now making its way through Parliament. As your representative, I’ll be paying close attention to the bill and will speak out to support our prison staff and ultimately to help protect us all from crime. To contact Thangam Debbonaire MP about housing issues, immigration issues, or any other urgent personal issue, please email thangam.debbonaire.mp@ parliament.ukor call 0117 379 0980 during office hours.

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bishopstonvoice

April, 2017

n NEWS

Chance to run your own community cafe EVER wanted to run your own café? The North Bristol Community Project on Gloucester Road is looking for an individual or group to set up a community café on its premises. The café will take the place of the former One in Eight charity shop run by the community project, which closed because it wasn’t financially viable. It’s hoped a new café will provide somewhere for local people to drop in, have a chat and connect with other services. Rent from the café will also help fund the other work of the charity, which has spent 35 years supporting disadvantaged people in the local area. Trustee and project manager Rita Gupta said: “This is a fantastic, affordable opportunity for someone who’s always wanted to set up a café but has been put off by high rents. “The people who used to drop in to the charity shop for a chat every day will now be able to

drop in to buy a coffee instead.” She said the individual or group who takes on the café would need to fund its set up, but should be able to make a good income from it. One of the trustees of the community project is a head chef and has already offered to run a monthly pop up, pay-what-youwish restaurant night once the café is open.

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The whole user-led community project, which is run entirely by volunteers, also needs more people to step in to keep it going. Behind the scenes are meeting rooms and areas for workshops and courses to take place for everyone, including a new Tuesday weaving workshop and other arts and crafts classes. From Monday to Saturday, help is provided on everything

from housing applications, benefits and mental health counselling, to healthy eating and art therapy. Homeless people are also supported with gifts of bedding, clothing and food. Rita, who is one of 15 volunteers currently running the project, said that a wide range of volunteers was being sought, not just professionals. Skills needed include DIY, marketing, social media, tutoring, interior design and running arts workshops. Rita said: “We need some more help in order to carry on what we do. It’s such a valuable resource for the local community, especially people over 50 who are more at risk of social isolation. “We also plan to start mentoring for young people who have been through the care system, and help them into employment.” To volunteer or to find out about running the café, contact Rita on 0117 924 6228.

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April, 2017

n NEWS

Chip shop boys plan to swim like fish TWO local boys are planning to swim like fish in a sponsored swim for the Alzheimer’s Society. Andrea and Andoni Lomvardos have been inspired to raise money for the charity as their grandfather has been diagnosed with the condition. The boys are aiming to complete a gruelling 500 lengths of the swimming pool in Filton and hope to raise £1,000. It is the third charity fundraiser for Andrea and Andoni. Last year they swam 200 lengths on behalf of Sport Relief and in 2015 the boys swam to raise money for the Marie Curie Cancer Charity. The event will take place at the Dolphin Swimming Pool in Filton on April 29, beginning at 11.30am when Andrea, aged 14 and Andoni, aged 11, expect to be in the water for between three and four hours. Andrea said: "We want to help by swimming. We love to help because we're only kids. We don't want other children to experience what's happening to our grandad. We get very sad when we visit him. Most times he doesn't know who we are. Other times he recognises us and starts to cry. Then we cry.” Andoni added: "I miss him so much. He can't cuddle me or even walk with me holding my hand. I wish he was just a normal old man.” Proud dad, Nick Lomvardos, who has just turned 50, has set up a collection box in his chip shop, the award winning, Bishopston Fish Bar.

Nick said: “It was the boys idea to do the swim for my dad. I was shocked when Andoni said let's do 500. I'm going to be watching very closely to make sure they are OK. People must remember they are young children but they are so determined to hit the 500 mark. “My father has had Dementia for over four years now. He also has Parkinson's but he's still battling on and every day we have him is a blessing. I'm sure I will be the most emotional man in Bristol on the 29th if the boys complete the 500 lengths.” Please help by donating to www.justgiving. com/fundraising/ AndreaAndoni500swim or pop into the Bishopston Fish Bar, sponsor the boys or just leave a small donation.

Andrea and Andoni proudly display the latest awards for Bishopston Fish Bar

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April, 2017

n NEWS POPULAR Bishopston pub, The Grace, has a new extension which has enhanced both the look and customer experience of the inside and outside space. Owner James Savage said: “We decided to enlarge the pub because we have the luxury of the big garden. We’ve built a lovely little extension and that’s given us 24 more covers inside - about a third more tables for dining.

New extension for The Grace “It allows for a bigger separation between diners and drinkers, particularly on busy Friday and Saturday nights. We’ve implemented a new wine list, which has been very well received and added a couple of obvious standards onto the bar, such as Guinness and Amstel.” The pub’s high quality food and drink is well recognised in Bristol - The Grace is a finalist in the Best Pub section of the 2017 Bristol Life awards. As well as serving a popular Sunday lunch, the pub has a small plates menu, designed so that it can be changed frequently, allowing the chefs to utilise the very best of local produce when it's at it's best. The new extension can be booked for drinking or dining. Overall the improvements have cost in the region of £30,000 and make The Grace look extra special. The garden has been made prettier by creating outside booths, all lit up by fairy lights, and enhanced by planters. The

The view from the garden into the new extension smoking shelter has been moved to one side of the pub and is not now connected to the entrance of the pub at all. James Savage added: “We pride ourselves on service, being the locals' local. The garden is a peaceful, blissful

oasis, fifteen yards and a million miles away from the ever busy Gloucester Road. There are many independent business on the Gloucester Road and we're proud to be one of them. We are Bristol owned and Bristol bred. We live, sleep and serve here.”

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April, 2017

n EDUCATION

FHS celebrates World Book Day in style FAIRFIELD High School (FHS) went to town this year to celebrate World Book Day, all with a common theme in mind – a celebration of reading. Students and staff were encouraged to dress up as a book character with prizes awarded for the ‘best dressed’. There were door and book cover competitions; a ‘join your local library’ encouragement initiative;

cake sales; lost word hunts; the World Book Day ‘World of stories online’ Audio Book hub; free handouts including bookmarks and pencils; activities in the library including quizzes, wordsearches and competitions and – perhaps most fun of all for this technology loving generation – a ‘selfie station’ with World Book Day props! All of these initiatives and

activities were organised with one thing in mind – a celebration of reading which was reinforced in everything that the school delivered. Samantha Carr, Assistant Librarian at FHS commented: “We ensured we celebrated World Book Day in style. We are all too familiar with teenagers preferring technology over old fashioned books these days, so we pulled out all the stops to

remind them how important, and how much fun, reading can be. The feedback from the students has been really positive and we have already got bigger and better plans for the celebration next year!” A number of students and staff took part – FHS is particularly proud of its Assistant Vice Principal, Ben Spence, whose photo made it onto The Guardian’s website.

Redmaids’ High School incorporating Redland High School for Girls

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April, 2017

n EDUCATION

QEH Junior School appoints new head JUNI

OR S

THE governors of Queen Elizabeth’s Hospital are delighted to announce that David Kendall has been appointed to succeed retiring Head, Martin Morris, as Head of QEH Junior School. Mr Kendall will take up the post in September and is very much looking forward to the challenge. He is currently Deputy Head at Newton Prep School in London and has had a distinguished career in prep schools around London and the South East, including a significant period at Westminster Under School where he was Head of Upper Section. Mr Kendall said: “I very much look forward to being part of the QEH community and leading this fine school. Mr Morris will be a difficult act to follow but I hope to build on the firm foundations which he has laid in establishing the Junior School over the past nine years.” Mr Kendall attended St David's University College, Lampeter, reading History. He gained his PGCE at Roehampton Institute and will complete his Masters in Educational Leadership in the summer. He is Chair of SATIPS, which fosters excellence in training and best practice in prep schools. Mr

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Kendall is married with three children and two step-children, and has a wide variety of sporting and other interests. “We are delighted to have appointed Mr Kendall,” said Stephen Holliday, Headmaster of QEH. “His energy and enthusiasm will inspire both the boys and staff, as he takes the Junior School forward, into its second decade.” Mr Kendall will be meeting parents and boys during the summer term. For more information about Queen Elizabeth’s Hospital, please go to www.qehbristol.co.uk

ST. BONAVENTURE'S Catholic Primary School in Egerton Road has received it’s latest report from Ofsted and has been highly praised for the school’s commitment to educating the ‘whole child’. Margaret Dickensen, Ofsted Inspector, reported that: “This school continues to be good. The leadership team has maintained the good quality of education in the school since the last inspection. You and your senior leaders have a clear vision for the quality of education that St Bonaventure’s will provide for its pupils. “During my discussions with senior leaders, formal and informal, and during our visits

to classrooms, what came over was a strong commitment to do the very best for your pupils. Leaders, staff and governors place clear emphasis on nurturing pupils’ wider personal development as well as their academic well-being.” Ofsted singled out the need for more groups to make aboveaverage progress, particularly in writing and mathematics. St Bonaventures have implemented a revised approach, brought in to improve pupils’ progress so that pupils make consistently good progress from the end of Reception to the end of Year 2, especially those who have some catching up to do in key stage 1.

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April, 2017 BISHOP Road Primary School has been awarded a £350 Wessex Watermark to help create a new green space at its urban site in Bristol. The school is creating a nature garden, allotment, orchard and wildflower area to make open-air learning spaces for its 800 pupils. Bishop Road is the largest primary school in Bristol and firmly believes the children will benefit from learning about the connection between food and their natural environment. Joe Emissah, the school’s Deputy Head said: “We are creating an allotment classroom for each year group to cultivate. There will also be a small orchard of native, locally-sourced fruit trees and a wildflower area to attract insects and help pollinate the orchard. “The garden and green spaces has been such a success that the school is planning to incorporate it into its curriculum as an outdoor learning classroom. “Our Wessex Watermark Award will help us buy more trees both native fruit trees for

School’s new green space receives a £500 Wessex Watermark award

Pictured with the children, who have been using the outdoor classroom facilities this term, are Sue Goodland of Wessex Water and Joe Emissah, Deputy Head Teacher. our orchard and native hedgerow trees. Our Award will enable the school to buy some larger saplings so the children can see the trees maturing sooner rather than later.” The school were presented

with the award by Sue Goodland, Wessex Water’s Education Officer, at the end of February. The Watermark Award provides funds for environmental projects within the Wessex Water area. Now in its twenty

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n EDUCATION

ure ent v d

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Open Morning Friday 12 May 10.00am–12.00 noon For further information, please contact Hollie Matthews on 0117 933 9885 or at admissions@bgs.bristol.sch.uk

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bishopstonvoice

April, 2017

n EDUCATION HAZEL Reade aged 15 from the Red Maids’ School in Bristol has won the 2017 Bristol Cathedral Art Exhibition having received the ‘Best Overall Winner’ Award as well as ‘Best in School’ for a portrait of her younger brother. Hazel follows in the footsteps of Aaliyah Robinson from Redland High School who won the exhibition last year, highlighting the exceptional artistic talent that will be combined through the merger of the two schools. “This annual exhibition showcases the best student artwork from secondary schools across Bristol,” said Mrs Sims,

Hazel scoops top Bristol art prize Head of Art at Red Maids’, “so to win it is a tremendous achievement. Both Redland High School and Red Maids’ have a history of excellence in art so we are extremely excited to join forces as Redland High School.” The exhibition, which has run for over 10 years, is supported by the Bristol Savages. Founded in 1904, the Bristol Savages is a society concerned with the pursuit of the fine arts, painting, music, poetry, other performing arts and good fellowship. Hazel’s painting will appear in the Bristol Savages annual exhibition at the Red Lodge. The winners received their certificates and cash prizes at a formal prize-giving ceremony at the Cathedral. Note: Redmaids’ High School is holding a Visiting Morning on Thursday 18 May from 9.30am. You can book online at redmaidshigh.co.uk/admissions

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April, 2017

n EDUCATION BRISTOL teenager, Weronika Razmus, has been offered a place at Oxford University – only six years after moving to the UK without the ability to speak or write any English. Weronika, aged 18, moved with her family from Poland to Shirehampton in 2011 and attended Oasis Academy Brightstowe until the summer of 2015. She then won a scholarship to Colston’s School to study for her A Levels and has now been offered a place to read chemistry at St. Hilda’s College, Oxford, in the autumn. Weronika won a Tolman Scholarship, which are provided by Old Colstonians in memory of Jim Tolman, who attended Colston’s and went on to become a hugely popular PE teacher at Oasis Academy Brightstowe for many years. Every year two Brightstowe students are selected for one of the two sixth form Tolman Scholarships at Colston’s. Weronika is one of two Colston’s sixth formers to win an Oxbridge place this year. Head

Weronika sets her sights on Oxford six years after starting English lessons

Francesca James (left) and Weronika Razmus girl Francesca James, also 18, from Westbury-on-Trym, has been offered a place at Gonville and Caius, Cambridge, where she will study chemical engineering through natural sciences.

Weronika said: “When I moved to the UK in 2011 I didn’t speak any English, German was my second language. But I was determined to pick it up and all the staff at Brightstowe were

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bishopstonvoice

April, 2017

n EDUCATION

Easter holiday club

WHOLE SCHOOL OPEN MORNING

SPARKS Play and Care is a notfor-profit cooperative, running breakfast and after school clubs for children in East and Central Bristol. During the February halfterm, it held a Japanese-themed Holiday Club at Sefton Park School, Ashley Down, and much fun was had by all. Another is planned for the Easter holidays. Lorna Cahill said: “Children aged 4-14 navigated their way around a Takeshi's Castle-style obstacle course, mastered the ancient art of Origami, completed a manga drawing workshop, made sushi and participated in a drama class by a guest teacher who volunteered their time. “The Sparks ethos is all about meeting new friends, learning new skills, being active and, most importantly, having bundles of fun. Each holiday club has a different theme so the children can learn about new cultures, explore new hobbies and develop new skills. “There's a very relaxed atmosphere, allowing freedom to get involved in the planned activities or play independently inside and out. The excellent facilities at Sefton Park offer a creative space to play and explore, with a forest area to

learn about the natural world and a sensory room to relax and read.” Highly-trained playworkers cater to the needs of all ages and abilities, and the Easter Holiday Club will revolve around the theme of nature. The warmer springtime weather will offer the chance to get out and about on Forest School trips. Lorna added: “The children will be able to explore the local wildlife and get involved with team-building tasks, such as cooking around the campfire and building dens, as well as developing practical skills like using ropes and tying knots. "The philosophy of our Forest School is to give children an appreciation of nature and encourage a responsibility for wildlife conservation, which they will hopefully take with them into adulthood.” After the February halfterm club, one happy parent commented: "My boys had such a great time. Lovely to feel that I can leave them somewhere so imaginative, well-structured and child-focused. Well done all." For more information on the Sparks breakfast, after school and holiday clubs, visit: www. sparks-inc.org

FRIDAY 28TH APRIL 09.30AM – 11.30AM Places available for September 2017 in: Nursery Reception Year 7 Selected other year groups

Register online at www.colstons.org Email: admissions@colstons.org Telephone: 0117 965 5207 To advertise, contact Emma on 0117 9082121 or 07715 770448 or email emma@bishopstonvoice.co.uk. Got news? Email: news@bishopstonvoice.co.uk

bishopstonvoice

April, 2017

n EDUCATION DEMAND is growing for places at Bristol's secondary sch0ols. This year 4,625 applications were received - 8% more than in 2016 and around a 34% increase on 2010. 91% of families have been offered one of their top three preferences, which is down slightly from 92.5% last year. Around three quarters (74.4%) of families were offered their first choice compared to 77% last year. There were also around a third more first preference applications for Bristol schools from people who live outside of the city. Councillor Claire Hiscott, Cabinet Member for Education and Skills, said: “This is the second ‘bulge’ year in Bristol secondary education and, in line with the council’s commitment to increase school places, we are working with local schools to plan ahead to ensure we can continue meeting demand. As part of our work as a Learning City we are also sharing best practice between schools and working to recruit and keep a strong teacher workforce, so that all schools in the city can provide students with a good education.” Redland Green School received 763 applications for 216 places, with 286 parents naming it as their first school of preference. Cotham School received 741 applications for 216 places - 220 parents naming it as their first choice. Fairfield High School has had a record 446 applications for places for 2017. The number of families putting it as their top school has leapt to 169, with 131 naming it as their second preference and 146 as their third. All 216 places have been offered to prospective students.

Places in demand at area's successful secondary schools It means the secondary school in Horfield is oversubscribed for a third successive year. Fairfield is an 11-16 school that serves a diverse inner-city community. It is rated by Ofsted as Good with Outstanding features. The school is part of the Excalibur Academies Trust, which provides a strong support network. Head of School Nick Lewis said: “It is fantastic that Fairfield High School is now one of the most oversubscribed schools in Bristol. This is an amazing testament to the hard work and dedication of FHS staff, students and parents. It shows that our community really values the work that everyone does in school and in the wider area.” Some families (9%) did not receive one of their preferred schools. The majority of these families applied for schools which allocate places by random allocation, are outside Bristol, or are faith schools. Anyone not receiving an offer for their preferred school will be given information about how to stay on the waiting list and the appeals process. Waiting lists for Bristol Schools will be available from 27 March 2017. For all other schools applicants are asked to contact the Local Authority where the school is situated for advice. The second round of allocations will take place in early May 2017. Appeals will be heard from

the beginning of June onwards. For more information about the offers process visit: https:// www.bristol.gov.uk/schoolslearning-early-years/secondaryadmission

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April, 2017

n EDUCATION

Sir Stanley Spencer – Connections exhibition

AN exhibition of the private collection of Spencer family artwork will be on display at Badminton School on March 24. June 30, 2016 marked Sir Stanley Spencer’s 125th birthday and from this day commenced the ‘Year of Stanley Spencer’; an opportunity for art lovers across the world to celebrate the eccentric, unconventional works of the famous artist. Spencer attended the Slade School of Art and soon became well known for his paintings often set in the vicinity of Cookham, his town of birth. Much of his artwork depicted biblical scenes while others featured stunning landscapes. Spencer had two daughters, Shirin and Unity; Unity inheriting the artistic talent of her father to become an artist in her own right. Both attended Badminton School in Bristol. Unity pursued a career in art producing oil paintings and etchings. In 1957 she painted

a portrait of her famous father before he died two years later. Exhibitions, new books, talks and events have been taking place around the country and in honour of Sir Spencer, Badminton School is holding an exhibition of its private collection of Spencer family artwork to include a talk from guest speaker, Chrissy Rosenthal, from The Stanley Spencer Gallery in Cookham. These prints and drawings by Sir Stanley Spencer, his brother Gilbert (also a celebrated painter) and Unity have not previously been displayed to the public and are available to view for one night only. Stanley Spencer – Connections Exhibition | Friday 24th March | From 6.30pm | Badminton School Book tickets here: https:// www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/sirstanley-spencer-connectionstickets-32226536438

‘WOW’! TORWOOD HOUSE SCHOOL Winners of the ISA’s Junior and Prep School Award for Excellence and Innovation in Provision

OPEN DAY Monday 8th May 10.00 am - 12.30 pm We are an independent school for children aged 4 - 11 years in Redland. Please contact us to conﬁrm your attendance.

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bishopstonvoice

April, 2017

n BISHOPSTON MUM AS I am sitting writing this, the sky is blue, the sun is shining, the birds are singing, daffodils are nodding in the breeze and the trees are blossoming – Spring has well and truly arrived! Now that Spring is here there are lots of options for family walks to enjoy with your children, both in and around Bishopston, and beyond. If you fancy escaping the hustle and bustle of city life for a few hours, I recommend a visit to Frenchay Moor: wild, rolling moorland where you can happily while away a few hours, surrounded by beautiful green space and with no noise but birdsong and the bubbling of the River Frome. Frenchay Moor is also one of those places which you can visit many times and always discover something new. If you fancy going for a smaller Spring walk with your children which is closer to home, then there are several ancient little lanes dotted around our area which are wonderful for short family walks with children of any age. One lane

that I have mentioned here before is Gaston Lane which you can find next to 134 Longmead Avenue or 22 Kings Drive. Commonly known by the not-so-lovely name, 'Dead Man's Lane', this little lane is 400 years old and is a perfect place to take your children on a Spring nature walk to spy little birds building their nests, squirrels in the trees and if you are really lucky, a

frog or two! Another pretty little lane within walking distance from Bishopston is a footpath which leads from Phoenix Grove (which is off Kellaway Avenue) to Henleaze Park. This little footpath includes an ancient hedge, estimated to be 800 years old and which is made up of hawthorn, blackthorn, holly and more, and which is also a haven

for blackbirds, wood pigeons and robins. What's more, if you visit the hedge one evening at dusk you might even spot a few bats! Along with the arrival of Spring comes some new free activities for children on Horfield Common. One of these activities is free adventure play sessions for children of all ages which take place on Wednesdays 3.30 – 5.30pm. These are hosted by the APE Project, a not-for-profit organisation for children, young people, providing exciting which provides challenging outdoor play. And, on Thursdays from 1 – 2.30pm there are My Wild Child sessions for 2 – 4 year olds which include mini beast hunts, nature crafts, mud painting, wild stories and songs! Both the Adventure Play sessions and My Wild Child sessions are free and there is no need to book. Enjoy getting out and about with your children this month and making the most of Spring!

Bishopston Mum

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

ents

bishopstonvoice

April, 2017

n NEWS In Bishopston this month... Ashley Down Double Yellow Lines We have been told that Council Officers are still analysing the feedback from the consultation on double yellow lines in the Ashley Down area. The results should be released in the next few months. Once we know the results and recommendations made we’ll inform local residents. Bishopston Society Meeting on Air Pollution The Bishopston Society will be holding its next public meeting on Tuesday 4th April at 7pm at the Cricket Club. The subject will be on air quality - specifically how air pollution affects our lives in Bishopston, what the Council is doing and what we can do in our community to improve things. Tom will be speaking, alongside Professor Jim Longhurst of UWE’s Air Quality Management Resource Centre and Gavin Spittlehouse from Sustainable Bishopston. Bristol North Baths and Bishopston Library As readers will no doubt be aware

from the Redland Councillors' column, the new build project at the Bristol North Baths is nearing completion, with the books and materials currently being transferred from the now closed Cheltenham Road library. Whilst this may be a bit of a repetition of what they've said, we wanted to firstly emphasise that, whilst library services will be restructured due to the Council cuts, no decisions have been made yet and the opening of the new Bishopston Library in April is not affected. We also wanted to add our support to the call for those interested in a ‘Friends of’ group. Such groups make libraries all the more successful, and may be especially important for Bishopston Library to help either secure its future as a Council-run library, or to keep it in community use if not. Horfield Common Congratulations to the Friends of Horfield Common on winning funding from the Tesco Bags of Help scheme to install a new accessible path. The path will

lead from the car park across to the existing eastern path near Hughenden Rd and St Leonard’s Rd. Neighbourhood Partnership The Partnerships, which have been Council-funded and facilitated, have proven to be a useful way of improving local areas. With the imminent removal of funding, the Bishopston, Cotham and Redland Neighbourhood Partnership is considering alternatives for the future. We want to continue in some form but need help from residents to do so. We held a public forum meeting to discuss the situation, as well as possible options for the future, on the 16th March. It was great to see so many people from across the area present and interested in the future of community engagement in the area. There were a variety of opinions, but there was a consensus that the Partnership had added value to the area and that something should continue in its place. It’s now a case of working out what that should be!

Our next meeting, on a date to be confirmed, will be based around working out the details of what structure we want our future work to take. Keep an eye out on Social Media and the Neighbourhood Partnership website (www.bcrnp. org.uk), as the next meeting might be before the next issue of Bishopston Voice goes to press. And please don't wait until the next meeting to get in touch! If you're interested in playing a part, big or small, in the future of community working across the area please let us know. St Andrews Bowling Club Congratulations to the St Andrews Bowling Club, who have secured a £50,000 grant from the Landfill Communities Fund for the refurbishment of their clubhouse. We're excited to see the results of the work, which will be completed next year. Please do get in touch! Tom Brook – Cllr.Tom.Brook@ bristol.gov.uk Eleanor Combley – Cllr. Eleanor.Combley@bristol.gov.uk

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n NEWS In Cotham this month... A CONTINUATION local community organisation is set to evolve from the public Forum held on March 16 and subsequent meetings, see http:// www.bcrnp.org.uk/ It appears that a small sum of money will be available to each councillor for meeting rooms. A smaller pot of money for small grants is not to be evenly distributed and with the CIL/S106 money (paid by developers) to be redistributed to the more deprived areas of the city by the vote of the majority Labour group. A fairer re-balancing was set out early in the original Lib Dem five-year proposals for growing neighbourhood partnerships, stopped by the last mayor. We are now in a very different situation. BCR will have no city funding going forward, with some allocated schemes under threat. I am deeply saddened that this innovative power-sharing project I helped to develop, fundamental to my core belief of community engagement, has been crushed in the perfect

storm of overzealous government austerity, the dogma of the new administration and revealed incompetence (or maybe more) of the last mayoral administration. I had hoped that the new mayor would embrace people power rather than reestablish discredited centralism. Neighbourhood Partnerships could still do good work with little funding but are being rubbed out. Councillors from all groups have praised their physical and social value, though some have struggled – and these could be better supported. BCR has delivered. People power trumps funding. I believe we have the vision, drive and commitment to work for the improvements local people want to our neighbourhood. Contact me if you feel you can help take this forward and join the many of us who believe we can still deliver local benefit. Anthony Negus cllr.Anthony.Negus@bristol. Gov.Uk

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April, 2017

Keep track of your council tax bill THIS year the Council is increasing council tax by 4.99% to help meet the rising costs of adult social care as well as to help bridge the gap between the reduced funding the Council receives from central government, and what it needs to spend on all other services. Council Tax payments are essential for the City to be able to deliver services, but for many it feels that costs seem to be going up whilst wages for many are stagnating and ‘non essential services' are being cut. Finances, admin management, changes of circumstances combined with other factors means that many Bristol citizens (over 75,000 in the 2016/17) can fall behind with their council tax payments. It can be difficult to get to speak to anyone on the phone due to such a high demand and

this may be further conflated as many customer services points are closing and being centralised to Temple Street. My advice would be to set up an account to track your council tax bill and if possible set up a direct debit. If you are on a low wage and struggling to pay you might be entitled to a council tax reduction - formally understood as council tax benefit, this is actually a discretionary scheme that is currently under review. Follow this link to set up an online account: https:// ctstatements.bristol.gov.uk/ If your circumstances change you can inform the council here: bristol.gov.uk/counciltaxchange Cleo Lake cllr.cleo.lake@bristol.gov.uk 07584 480531

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April, 2017

n NEWS In Redland this month... The new Bishopston Library We're pleased to report visible progress with our new Bishopston Library on Gloucester Road. The rest of the new development below the flats is under review in the light of budget cuts and viability. The new strategy for public toilets after budget cuts is to find other facilities that can be offered to the public along high streets which can mean more locations offering to serve as public conveniences which can be publicised with a local map. There's a very small proposed retail unit and this may be revisited to see if a more viable space can be offered. All the new buildings including the flats above are subject to a service charge. Parking There's continuing pressure from local residents both sides of Gloucester Road for parking to be reviewed and managed better. Local councillors for both Ashley and Redland wards met with Cabinet member for Transport, Mark Bradshaw, recently. He

has promised news within weeks of how requests for residents parking will be handled in the future and how to assess support among residents and others such as local businesses. Manor Park parking issues Following disquiet from residents about various aspects of the proposed extension to the Redland residents parking scheme to cover Manor Park and nearby roads, we held a site meeting in the street with officers. This was a lengthy, detailed, and respectful debate around the various issues that residents have brought up – by no means all agreeing with each other on the priorities for progressing, amending or rethinking the advanced proposals. Topics ranged over the parking restrictions, double yellow lines, times, and permit issues all coming up, plus things like bins on pavements, driveways, and signage all causing comments, and a request from many residents for an alternative approach called a

Parking Permit Area. We looked around the area and noted all the concerns, with helpful technical input from officers. We’re now awaiting a report back from officers and a meeting to decide the best way forward. While we appreciate not all views can be satisfied in one plan, we have been promised a six month review of what gets done. The last days of BCR NP Many thanks to all who attended a packed BCR meeting on March the 16th to look at how we can retain as much of all the good work that the partnership has achieved as we can. If you’d like to be involved in shaping future plans for how our area gets managed in future, proposing practical projects you’d like to contribute to, and offering ideas for priorities in future. Many people raised points like the value of twoway communications with the council, the chance to meet other residents with similar questions, and the need to reach out to make the body more inclusive.

Community Speed Watch Police officers at the recent Neighbourhood Forum reported back on the positive news that many types of crime are staying low in the area, though there’s been a spate of bike thefts from sheds and garages in the north of Bishopston/Horfield. On another note, they are now helping set up a new community speed watch scheme for local residents on Cranbrook Road to help monitor vehicle speeds. This will help keep track of speeds but when the police are present they can also send warning letters to motorists who exceed the speed limit on this fast road. Do get in touch if you’d like to contact the police about monitoring speeds in your road. Martin & Fi Martin Fodor cllrmartin.fodor@bristol.gov.uk 07884736101 Fi Hance cllr.fi.hance@bristol.gov.uk 0117 3534720

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

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April, 2017

n NEWS In St Andrews this month... WE’RE aware that there are plans for a student accommodation development at 147-149 Gloucester Road (above and behind the Peacocks store). When the plans are uploaded to the council’s planning portal we will be sure to look at them closely and discuss with planning officers any issues of concern. A meeting was held recently between Ashley and Redland councillors Mike, Jude and Martin and the Cabinet Member for Transport, Cllr Mark Bradshaw, regarding parking and highway safety issues in the streets on either side of Gloucester Road. Cllr Bradshaw agreed that the problems in the area warranted attention and further consultation with residents about what should happen next. In February the Council’s annual budget was approved, and the measures in the budget involve changes to a number of Council services. One of these is Neighbourhood Partnerships

(NPs), which will have the majority of their budget removed. Consultation has begun between Council officers, councillors and local communities about how NPs are to continue in what the Council hopes will be a ‘communityled’ format. At last month’s meeting of the Ashley, Easton and Lawrence Hill NP there was a discussion about the process and timescale for moving forward, and there will be further meetings to explore these issues before the end of June. The community-led neighbourhood organisations that emerge out of NPs will still receive support from the Council. All areas will receive a budget in order for regular meetings to be held throughout the year. These meetings can be used to discuss local issues, and if applicable for decisions to be made about spending Section 106 and Community Infrastructure Levy money (which comes from certain kinds of development schemes in the area when they

are approved by the Local Planning Authority). In addition, a budget will be available for small grants to the community in the most deprived areas of the city. There is also the question about what the boundaries of the community-led partnerships will be, which may not necessarily be the same as what they currently are for the NPs. It may be that Ashley, Easton and Lawrence Hill will not continue as one grouping. For example, it could potentially make sense for St Andrews to join with Bishopston, Cotham and Redland’s partnership area. For more information contact gill. calloway@bristol.gov.uk. Mike Davies,

cllr.mike.davies@bristol.gov.uk 07584 370 413 Jude English cllr.jude.english@bristol.gov.uk 07584 151 099 Carole Johnson

cllr.carole.johnson@bristol.gov.uk

07584 370 414

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

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April, 2017

n NEWS

Botanic Garden hosts sculpture festival THE University of Bristol Botanic Garden are hosting a Sculpture Festival and Quilting Exhibition during the Easter weekend of April 14-17. Highlights include sumptuous quilts in jewelled colours, stained glass sailing boats drifting through sea glass, a bronze Rambeaux with attitude, calligraphy inspired ceramics, and quirky foliage sculptures swaying in the breeze. The Botanic Garden in Stoke Bishop makes a perfect

Photo courtesy of Phillippa Macarthur

environment for displaying both traditional and modern sculpture with its constantly changing natural light and backdrop of architectural plants, colours and textures. Nicholas Wray, curator of the Botanic Garden said: "The natural world has inspired artists to make the varied and innovative pieces of work that will be displayed at the festival. “I am delighted that the Garden environment has provided the opportunity for these local artists to display their work. “Some of the methods the artists use will be demonstrated during the exhibition which, together with the Garden bursting into life, will create the perfect environment for visitors to enjoy." Demonstrations of pottery, stained glass and willow weaving will give visitors a chance to meet the artists and see how they work. A display of Narcissus illustrating all horticultural groups of this colourful spring flower forms a trail through the garden for adults and children to enjoy. With thousands of different well labelled plants set within an intensely planted award winning garden and

Rambeaux by Lucianne Lassalle. Photo courtesy of Marius Grose glasshouses, the Botanic Garden attracts people year after year. Refreshments, tours of the garden, plants and book sales are all available. Admission from 10am-5pm: Adults £6.00. Free to Friends, university staff and

students and children under 18. University of Bristol Botanic Garden, The Holmes, Stoke Park Road, Bristol, BS9 1JG. For further details call 0117 428 2041 or www.bristol.ac.uk/botanicgarden

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April, 2017

n NEWS

Chandos Road celebrates Window Wanderland WINDOW Wanderland, the ever popular winter spectacle, lit up the streets around Chandos Road in Redland at the end of February. Shop windows and houses were decorated in all manner of beautiful and quirky images. People came out to view the window scenes but the strong wind and rain had an impact on the weekend’s celebrations. Organiser Fiona McVey said: “Despite Hurricane Ewen, we were delighted to see so many braving the elements to admire

the creative and inventive displays in windows & gardens around our streets. Displays included a homage to ‘Hitch Hikers guide’, beautiful ‘stained glass’ scenes, cuddly toys, an owl & pussycat, vegetable portraits and some impressive IT. Enthusiastic feedback at our recent neighbourhood association meeting means we’ll

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definitely be out decorating our streets again next year." Window Wanderland began as a community project in Bishopston and has been so successful that it has been taken up by many other areas of Bristol. It is a great way to bring the local community together and to light up the dark nights at the end of winter.

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

April, 2017

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n METRO MAYOR

Quick facts: West of England Mayor RESIDENTS in Bristol, Bath & North East Somerset (B&NES) and South Gloucestershire are voting for a ‘Metro Mayor’ to lead the new West of England Combined Authority for the next four years. More than 900,000 people are eligible to vote in the combined authority elections held on May 4. Voters living in Bishopston, Cotham, Redland and St Andrews may wonder what the point is of adding yet another layer of government to the region? Put simply - devolution money - £900 million to deliver infrastructure locally over the next 30 years. That works out at

an additional £31 million each year. The Government wants to have a named individual accountable for the additional powers and money being devolved to the West of England Combined Authority. More government should mean better government for the West of England with a budget to deliver planned sustainable growth across the city region. The West of England Mayor will work with the Bristol Mayor Marvin Rees and the leaders

of South Gloucestershire and B&NES councils, Matthew Riddle and Tim Warren, to oversee a coordinated plan for the region. The three existing local authorities will still be responsible for most public service delivery, such as waste management, schools, and recreational facilities. Transport, housing, economic growth, adult training and skills will all come under the new Metro Mayor authority creating a strategy for the whole area. Other financial benefits

include the opportunity to take part in the business rates retention pilot and a higher rate of payments from Government across the devolution region for roads maintenance, worth approximately £1m per year. Six people have declared that they are standing in the election, including: Tim Bowles (Conservative), Aaron Foot (UKIP), Darren Hall (Green Party), Lesley Mansell (Labour), John Savage (Independent) and Stephen Williams (Liberal Democrat).

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

April, 2017

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Tim Bowles, Conservative Party

Darren Hall, Green Party

AS a local community campaigner, I’m passionate about our region and that’s why I’m standing to be the first West of England Mayor. I’ve combined a successful business career with public service as a local Councillor over the last fourteen years and I want to use my skills, experience and determination to make our region even better. Our community is a great place to live with a growing economy and new jobs. But success brings demand for more housing - and transport infrastructure is just not keeping up. Local people want to see further improvements to transport and they want to be able to get on the housing ladder more easily. If elected, I will adopt a better approach to development – so the right homes are built in the right places, protecting our green spaces and prioritising urban regeneration. I’m also determined to make transport a priority like a new station at Henbury and Horfield, speeding up the Portway Park and Ride station, and increased services from Sea Mills and Shirehampton stations. The West of England Mayor can make a real difference to the lives of people in the West with nearly £1 billion of extra Government money and key powers over housing, transport, the economy and jobs. But we need a strong local voice to champion our region, we need a Mayor who can work with our Government, local MPs and Councillors to get things done instead of using the role to score political points.

I GREW up in Gloucestershire and lived in the Bristol area for the last 15 years. After graduating from Swansea University as a mechanical engineer, I joined the RAF as an Engineering Officer. Later I undertook a Masters in Business and worked in public services in a number of roles spanning crime & drugs, culture and media & sport. I was the national spokesperson for the FRANK drugs campaign and supported Gloucestershire’s recovery from 2007’s flooding. I spent 5 years working with Bristol City Council, running the Bristol Green Capital Partnership, and led the team that won the European Green Capital Award. Over 20 years, I have become more active in campaigning on environmental issues and despite my reservations, I was persuaded to enter politics. I ran to be the Green Party’s Bristol West MP, achieving 23% of the vote, coming a close second to Labour. During the campaign I saw how the Green party’s vision and messages of hope connected with residents fed up with the hollow promises from ‘the greenest government ever’. As Metro Mayor, we can improve the lives of thousands who live and work in the West of England by investing in better public transport, affordable housing, and jobs that pay a living wage. We must do more to provide people with meaningful work and investing in people. We have the opportunity to be a world leader in the smart cities agenda, creating a strong local economy that protects and regenerates the natural resources upon which we all enjoy.

A t A n i m a l H o u s e w e u n d e r s t a n d t h a t r e g i s t e r i n g y o u r p e t w i t h a n e w v e t i s a b i g d e c i s i o n . S o t o m a k e i t a l i t t l e e a s i e r w e a r e m a k i n g t h i s o f f e r t o y o u . M a k e a ‘ M e e t t h e v e t ’ a p p o i n t m e n t a t a n y o f o u r s u r g e r i e s a n d w e w i l l g i ve you the ﬁ r s t c o n s u l t a t i o n a b s o l u t e l y f r e e . T h e o n l y c o s t t o y o u w o u l d b e i f y o u r p e t n e e d e d a n y t r e a t m e n t a g r e e d w i t h T h e A n i m a l H o u s e V e t . W e h o p e t h a t t h i s a p p o i n t m e n t w i l l g i v e y o u t h e o p p o r t u n i t y t o e x p e r i e n c e t h e A n i m a l H o u s e p e r s o n a l a p p r o a c h t o v e t e r i n a r y c a r e . T o t a k e a d v a n t a g e o f t h i s o f f e r , s i m p l y f i l l o u t t h e f o r m o n o u r w e b s i t e t o r e c e i v e y o u r v o u c h e r . C h a l k s R o a d S t G e o r g e B r i s t o l . B S 5 7 A A

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T e l : 0 1 1 7 3 3 5 5 9 9 9 w w w . a n i m a l h o u s e v e t s . c o . u k To advertise, contact Emma on 0117 9082121 or 07715 770448 or email emma@bishopstonvoice.co.uk. Got news? Email: news@bishopstonvoice.co.uk

Lesley Mansell

for Metro Mayor My key pledges to you are to: Build more social housing and affordable homes. Create better jobs, training opportunities and apprenticeships. Provide reliable, green and accessible transport. Secure the best business deal for the region, including rolling out high-speed internet. Promote green energy policies and protect our beautiful countryside.

I am standing for election because I want to change the way things are done. My vision is to ensure everyone in Bath & North East Somerset, Bristol and South Gloucestershire can share equally in our regionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s success. I want devolution to work for the many, not the few. I will put people first. mansell4mayor.org @MansellForMayor www.facebook.com/MansellForMayor 07955 619 632

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April, 2017

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John Savage, Independent ON May 4, we enter a new phase of devolution that will profoundly change the way that our region is run. I have lived in the West of England for the last 40 years and for the first time in my life I see the possibility of a real shift in power from Westminster to local people. Last year three councils in the West of England – Bristol, Bath & North East Somerset and South Gloucestershire – agreed to a devolution deal which will allow our region to determine its own future, as well as an additional £30 million in extra funding from government. This is an unprecedented opportunity for the West of England and it is essential that we do not waste it. We need a leader who can work across the three local authorities; someone who will not be bound by bureaucracy nor party interests. This is not the time to be divisive, but to unite the West of England around a common purpose and, in doing so, truly let this region reach its full potential. The West of England’s Mayor must use their position to facilitate co-operation between the local authorities for the good of all. I intend to stand as an independent candidate for this election and draw upon my vast experience of partnership working – with government, local government, businesses and charities – to bolster the status of the West of England and champion it as the best place to live and work.

Stephen Williams, Liberal Democrat THE election of a “Metro” Mayor for the West of England is an exciting opportunity to take our region forward. London has benefitted from the strategic leadership of its Mayor. Now we will have the same powers and new sources of money so that we can make the big decisions locally, rather than asking for permission or funding from the government in Westminster. The new Metro Mayor will be able to invest in the local economy, with £120 million available in the first four years. I will invest in cheap start up space for new businesses and social enterprises. I want to encourage tech and digital entrepreneurs, the fast growing industries of the future. I will also support those businesses that are developing a low carbon, sustainable economy. I will lead trade delegations to bring more jobs to our area, building a world recognised brand for Bristol and Bath. I will set aside land for new homes that are affordable for purchase and rent, safeguarding the green Belt. I will use new transport powers to regulate all of bus providers, cut journey times and improve air quality. I will reopen rail stations, starting with Ashley Down, Charfield and Saltford. I will work with our county neighbours to bring more rail improvements and a new tram link to Bristol Airport. This is a big job and I am the only candidate to have served as a minister in the government, as well as an MP and councillor. I can make the case to the government for even more resources and powers, taking our region forward to greater prosperity.

Lesley Mansell, Labour LESLEY Mansell is standing for Metro Mayor to make a difference. An experienced negotiator, the NHS manager believes she has the qualities required to bring together the local government leaders uniting them in a common aim. “My vision is to ensure everyone in the West of England can share equally in our region’s success. The Metro Mayor is a new role and a chance to change the way things are done. I will put people first, work hard to get the best out of the three local authorities so devolution works for the many, not the few, “ she says. “This election presents an opportunity for us to tackle the inequalities of our housing market, the insecurity of our jobs market and to end the frustrations of our journeys across Bristol.” Lesley lives in Radstock and works at Southmead Hospital. Her first priority is to address the region’s housing problems. “We have already seen in Bristol what can be done when there is the will to build houses. I will work closely with Marvin Rees to replicate Labour’s success across the rest of the region.” One solution to rush hour congestion is to encourage employers to allow staff to work from home more often. “I will push for improved broadband in all areas,” she says. “Imagine the difference to our congestion and air quality if commuters stayed at home one day a week. The West of England needs a Labour Metro Mayor to champion the fight against the region’s inequalities,” she says.

Aaron Foot, UKIP FOR many people within the new West of England combined Authority, choosing the region’s first Metro Mayor will be an important decision for them. Therefore, it’s absolutely crucial, that come May, voters aren’t restricted to choosing between a selection of career politicians that are almost indistinguishable from one and other. With me on the ballot, they’ll have the opportunity to vote for someone completely different. If elected to be the new Metro Mayor, I will work with everyone across the new West of England Mayoral Combined Authority, and I firmly believe that direct democracy can and will deliver outstanding levels of service and will ensure all voices are heard. As your local UKIP Candidate for the West Of England Metro Mayor, I have three commitments. Firstly, as a farmer, I understand the vast importance of the greenbelt and thus I do not want to see our nation stripped of its prime agricultural land and natural wildlife habitats. This is why I will fight hard to prevent our countryside becoming swamped by overdevelopment, as our countryside must be preserved to be enjoyed by future generations. I will also pledge to get the Bristol and Bath gridlock sorted once and for all. This will be achieved by ending the war on motorists and implementing an integrated transport network where bus, train and road user all work together. Finally, I want to be the voice that represents you, the public, this is why in the first 100 days in office, I will create a direct democracy platform so we can shape the West Of England together. This will be done so that we can all champion change.

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

for Regional Mayor New rail stations, more frequent trains, night buses & capped fares Affordable homes to buy and rent, protecting precious green belt Against a damaging Hard Brexit

1st choice for Regional Mayor on 4th May

Bookies make Lib Dems favourite for Metro Mayor Bookmakers Ladbrokes have made Liberal Democrat candidate Stephen Williams an early favourite in the West of England Metro Mayor election on 4th May.

Lib Dems: EVENS Conservative: 11/10 Labour: 7/1 Green: 50/1

UKIP: 100/1

Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a two horse race between Stephen Williams and the Conservatives

Prices correct as of 15th March 2017

www.stephenwilliams.org.uk Published and promoted by Daniel Kelly on behalf of Stephen Williams (Liberal Democrats), both at 31 James St West, Bath, BA1 2BT.

bishopstonvoice

April, 2017

n NEWS

'Why I love bowls' AS the gloom of the English winter begins to fade, the Redland Green bowlers begin to dream of summer afternoons on the perfectly manicured greensward of our bowling green. Do not misunderstand! Bowls is not just a pastime; it is a sport. Competitiveness ranges from mild to determined. A Monday club night “roll-up” (not what you think) may stir only a hint of competition, but Thursday night League (newly promoted to Division One) is just as hardfought as the Bristol & District Cricket League, or the Avon Netball League. The Club is a friendly and welcoming club for men and women of all ages and all abilities. There is no greater feeling than to stand with your mates on a sunny Saturday afternoon, with the smooth green at your feet, the birds in the trees and the kettle boiling for tea. It’s a lot cheaper than golf and a lot less exhausting than

football or squash, but you’ll still find at the end of the day that you have had not only an afternoon’s fresh air, but a good exercise as well. Bowls is a deceptively simple game. Get the wood nearest the jack and you win the “end”. But there is subtlety there (and sometimes power). Take the other wood out, promote your wood, move the jack. Once you’ve started, you’ll never tire of it. And we’re looking for members, women and men. From 22 April we will be holding free taster sessions on Saturday mornings, with a qualified coach and a chance to try the game out. Alternatively, come down on a Monday evening once the season starts, introduce yourself and you can join the members on Club night. Contact Gerry and Jean Wickham, gerald. wickham@btopenworld.com, jeanwickham@hotmail.com See our website www. redlandgreenbowls.webs.com

Gerry Wickham

FREE TASTER SESSIONS

SAT MORNINGS 22 APRIL TO END OF MAY

10AM – 12NOON

2017 SEASON REDLAND GREEN BOWLS GIVE BOWLS A TRY - FREE

ALL AGES WELCOME

WEAR TRAINERS/FLAT SHOES

Our friendly club is situated next to Redland Green Park. We welcome beginners of all ages to our Saturday sessions with a Bowls Coach, or come along on Mondays from 3pm. You can play in friendly and competitive matches, or socially with other members throughout the summer. Our clubhouse has a bar & full facilities and is open throughout the season. First year membership is half price. At our taster sessions we supply bowls, including junior sizes. Please wear trainers or flat shoes.

REDLAND GREEN BOWLS CLUB Redland Green Road BS6 7HE redlandgreenbowls.webs.com

Please contact Jean or Gerry Wickham on 0117 9624466 for information about the club and our taster sessions.

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

FOR S T L U D A & KIDS

Kings Open Day Saturday 1st April 11am-3pm

FTERNNEISE&

TOTS & MINI TENNIS G JUNIOR TENNIS N I H C A CO R ALL PLAY FOR PRIZES

ADULT CARDIO TENNIS TENNIS EXPRESS FAMILY & FREE PLAY

Games & fun activities for all including Bouncy Castle Food & drink served all day Fun competitions and prizes Membership discounts Racquets and balls provided s Contact Elly Shearman, Head Coach e c a Sp ted t Tel: 07581 237260 i ow a n m i e l k onlin ellytennis.kings@hotmail.com www

o.uk

nis.c

boo .kingsten

https://clubspark.lta.org.uk/KingsLawnTennisClub

OFF KINGS DRIVE

April, 2017

n ADVERTISING FEATURE

bishopstonvoice

Free open day at Kings Tennis HI Everyone! Its Elly from Kings and we are on our count down to to our FREE open day! Saturday April 1st 11AM - 3PM. At Kings we want to explain why everyone should play tennis! There are so many benefits to playing tennis for all. For Adults • It keeps you fit • It’s fun and sociable • You are never too old to start • You never forget how to play • Great family game for all ages • It IS affordable • And Kings is just around the corner For Kids Get your children out on the court and watch them enjoy learning to play, staying active, making friends and feeling challenged, both physically and mentally. The way your child learns and plays tennis today is different – equipment, courts and teaching techniques have changed to adapt to age, skill and ability, which mean children and adults learn better, faster, and with greater success than before. Not to mention, it makes tennis more fun. Physical benefits The physical benefits of tennis go beyond great exercise. Tennis also develops: • Hand-eye coordination • Balance and body coordination • Speed, strength, flexibility and agility Tennis also strengthens overall health by improving bone strength and density, and a healthy immune system. It’s also a non-contact sport, which makes it one of the safest to play. Skills for life – on and off court Tennis isn’t just great exercise. Tennis also helps children develop skills for life, both on and off the court. Players learn responsibility and sportsmanship from a young age. Tennis nurtures work ethic, discipline and enhances mental strength and problem solving skills. Tennis also can help improve their social skills. Children will learn the importance of teamwork when playing doubles or being on a team. For Adults it is great exercise, a sport for life and provides you

with a great opportunity to meet new people and build valuable friendships. Coaching for everyone Kings offer coaching at all levels - Players can get individual or group lessons from our certified tennis instructors to help learn or develop a specific aspect of their game. At Kings we pride ourselves on helping everyone on their tennis journey. For beginners through to advanced players, lessons are typically offered in a series of 6-10 classes and we also do drop in coaching sessions for children and adults each week. Most importantly we make it fun. For more details check out our website www.clubspark.lta.org. uk/KingsLawnTennisClub

can get something out of this! •C oaching Sessions : separate sessions for adults & juniors learn something new! • F amily Time : book a session to play with your family We will have all these and more, prizes, general coaching, free food for kids, as well as a bouncy castle and outdoor games! Rackets and balls will be provided and absolutely anyone can get involved. Whether you've never picked up a racket before or are a seasoned regular – there is no excuse not to come down. All ability levels are welcome so book your session now on our website https://clubspark.lta.org.uk/ KingsLawnTennisClub

To tempt you even further on the day we will be offering new members 20% discount on family membership and 10% on all other categories plus the chance to avail of our taster membership only £70 per adult for a 4 month period including 2 free Adult coaching sessions. If you have any questions at all please feel free to contact Head Coach Elly Shearman at ellytennis. Kings@hotmail.com or on 07581 237260. Kings a great place to play tennis – Be part of it. Find us at : Maplemeade, Kings Drive, Bishopston,Bristol, Avon, BS7 8JG.

How to get involved Tennis today is about fun, gaining new skills, being creative, building confidence, and helping people fall in love with a sport for a lifetime. To find out more about this wonderful sport, join in or try tennis for the first time come along to Kings Open Day on 1st April. We have activities for all - young and old - and even those in between. What to expect on Open Day Free activities include; • Mini Tennis : small courts and balls that bounce lower for the younger children • Cardio Tennis : fitness, music, fun and tennis all in one - all abilities

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

bishopstonvoice

April, 2017

n PRIMAL POSTURE with

Clare Chapman IF you go to your GP with back pain the treatment you get is based on the recommendations of the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence – or NICE. Their role is to improve outcomes for NHS users by producing evidence-based guidance, monitoring, and information. The latest (2016) NICE guidelines dramatically revised the medical solutions commonly offered for ‘ordinary mechanical back pain’ (that is, where disease or trauma are not the cause). Last month, the American College of Physicians (ACP) updated their equivalent guidelines in the US. Although there are some UK/US differences, the common ground is astonishing. Within a decade, many of the once routine interventions advised for back pain patients have been all but abandoned. Proven to be ineffective or counterproductive, out go most surgeries, such as fusions,

What’s new and what’s missing in back pain treatment discectomies and laminectomies, cortisone and most nerve blocking injections, X-rays, MRIs and nearly all painkillers. Instead, both guidelines urge back-pain sufferers to stay active, and, rather vaguely, to consider some form of exercise, physical therapy or manipulation to aid recovery. The advice to resume normal everyday activities as early as possible would have more to recommend it if it came from an understanding that most back pain actually develops from years of every-day slumping and/or arching, walking poorly, bending rounded, and so on. Relearning natural postural patterns can therefore significantly reduce and sometimes eliminate both

recurring back pain and avoid escalating damage to the body. And when people are in severe pain, judicious surgery, injections or short-term pain meds can sometimes offer a window of opportunity to facilitate the postural learning that can get to the root of the problem. Luckily the majority of people suffering back and joint pain do not need such drastic interventions to get started on discovering how to live in a happier body. For information on my posture Free Workshops and Courses go to: www. gokhalemethod.com or contact Clare: 0117 9422262

Alpine LANDSCAPING • Free Sleep Apnoea Screening • Free Health Care Advice • Prescriptions Collected and Delivered from all Local Surgeries • Free NHS funded Smoking Cessation Products • Specialist Incontinence and Living Aid Products

Established family firm with 25 years experience

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CALL JOE FOR A FREE QUOTE

Tel: 0117 959 2143 Mob: 07891 253 122

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

April, 2017

bishopstonvoice

n VINEYARD NEWS

with Ingrid Bates

ARCH for me now means sheep. I like to borrow a small flock of sheep from one of the local farmers to get the rough, matted thatch of grass that has developed over winter nibbled down to within an inch of its life. There are a couple of reasons for this: the long grass is incredibly tough so can easily damage my mower; and the dense growth blocks the sun from warming the soil beneath. My twelve adult sheep and their lovely little lambs have been busy nibbling and have already reduced a hectare of

grass down to a very short length within the space of a week. As well as eating grass they have the delightful habit of fertilizing the ground as they go so it’s a win-win situation all round! As with everything, there are down sides and I do have to monitor their progress a little. As soon as they’ve eaten all the soft grass they can sometimes begin to look elsewhere and start to nibble bark and stems. If we see this happening we quickly move them onto the fresh grass surrounding the vineyard to get to work there instead. Thankfully a simple electric fence keeps them wherever we want and prevents too much chaos descending. Luckily the vines won’t form enlarged buds or begin growing until mid April so there’s no real threat from the sheep at the moment but you could never have sheep grazing once they have started to grow. We used sheep for the first time last spring wouldn’t be without them now. Some of them were

hand reared and behave almost like dogs, running up to greet me and rubbing their big woolly bodies against me (whether I like it or not). They definitely liven up the last few weeks of pruning and I love watching the little lambs skipping and playing around the vines. Our 2016 Pinot noir rosé is about to be bottled so we’re just finalising label plans and preparing hundreds of boxes. We have a

new label illustration by Children’s Laureate and illustrator Chris Riddell, which our designer Helen Miller is busy working on. If all this goes to plan our new wine should be available in the next few weeks, so watch this space! hello@dunleavyvineyards.co.uk www.dunleavyvineyards.co.uk @DYvineyards (twitter) dunleavy vineyards (facebook & instagram)

Graham Cook Gardener and handyman

Grass cutting, hedge and shrub trimming, weeding, planting, felling small trees, clearing, small painting jobs including garden fences and other maintenance work. Please call for a no-obligation chat

Call 0117 377 0644 or 07415 658 205

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

bishopstonvoice

n NEWS Yoga for Health by Diana Penny

of Yogawest (www.yogawest.co.uk)

Yoga Pose of the Month:

Parivritta Ardha Chandrasana This is the 8th month in the sequence begun last September. Like last month, this pose is a little more challenging, and you can miss out this pose for now if it looks too hard. Practice time: 30 – 60 seconds. 1. From Parivritta Trikonasana, (see last month), place your right hand on your right hip, bend your right knee, and take a small step in with your (left) back leg. Place your left hand directly below your left shoulder in front of your right foot. 2. Straighten your right leg as you lift your left leg off the floor to hip

height. Push through the sole of your left foot, as though you were pressing it against a wall. To engage your inner left leg, press the mound of your big toe down as you lift your arch. Stretch, spread, and activate the toes. Draw in the centre of your right buttock and pull the outer hip into your body. Without disturbing your standing leg, turn your chest up toward the ceiling. Reach your right arm up. Take your gaze toward your right hand. Spread your diaphragm and your inner chest cavity with soft, open breathing. 3. To come out, lower your back leg into Parivritta Trikonasana Pose. 4. Repeat on the other side. Thinking of trying Yoga? Diana has a special offer for Voice Readers: 5-week foundation course for only £30 (usual price £49). Quote code VOICE30 when booking. Drawings and posture text reproduced by kind permission of Bobby Clennell, a senior Iyengar teacher in New York. Bobby is teaching a weekend of yoga at Yogawest on May 5-7th 2017.

April, 2017 2

A Retirement to Look Forward to

“Dad was living on his own and we’d started to worry. Now he has a much better social life than us!”

APARTMENTS AVAILABLE TO RENT Gorgeous one-bedroom and studio apartments available in Abbeyfield House, Redland Road, BS6 6YR

Telephone: 0117 973 6997

It’s true. Renting an apartment in one of our lovely Abbeyfield houses gives you the perfect blend of independence, support, privacy and companionship. It’s a wonderful alternative when you want to move nearer your family, or are just struggling to cope on your own, but don’t want a ‘care home’ or ‘residential care’ Our all-inclusive fees cover delicious home-cooked meals, utility bills, Council Tax and TV licence, leaving you free to enjoy the community inside, and out

www.abbeyfield-bristol.co.uk

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

April, 2017

bishopstonvoice

n MAYOR'S VIEW

Sport will show way WE’RE now in April and spring is truly upon us. We have agreed our budget for the next year and are looking to the future to see how we can put our ideas for making the city a fairer place into action in what are difficult circumstances. The Bristol Impact Fund is a significant part of that work. Last month my Cabinet approved £3.29m worth of grants for charities and organisations around the city that do essential work to help support our communities and some of the city’s most vulnerable people, including grants for 23 groups who have not benefitted from any council funding previously. These grants have been spread across the city with a focus on 49 different life-improving projects targeting support where it is most needed. I am confident that the successful organisations will deliver the best outcomes for Bristol, but am also conscious that unfortunately it is a limited pot and not everyone who applied could receive funding. In these cases we are arranging to meet with these organisations to talk about their applications and try to hook them up with other potential funders. To see a list of which projects received funding, visit news.bristol.gov.uk Another way we will be working with communities throughout

2017 is through our year as a European City of Sport. We want to use this award as a platform to help bring more world class sport to Bristol and encourage more home grown talent. To do this we need to make sure that the city as a whole city feels enabled to get involved in sport and to get more active. Not only is sport and being active a great way of improving our physical health but it can also improve our general mental wellbeing. By encouraging and inspiring more people to take part we will be helping to improve the health of our city and reduce the demand on health and care services. On Sunday 2 April, we are holding a family fun morning with our sports partners from around the city at Eastville Park. Everyone’s welcome to come and try a range of sports including basketball, football, rugby and tennis for free. There will also be some cricketing and we’ll be bringing along the ICC’s Women’s World Cup trophy, promoting the upcoming tournament fixtures hosted by Bristol in the summer. The fact that Bristol is a host for one of the biggest events in the international cricketing calendar just goes to show Bristol’s potential to draw in world class sport. I am working with organisations around the city to see how we can make the most of Bristol’s potential. I have already held two conferences with members of our local sporting community to discuss this and look

forward to seeing how these ideas develop as the year progresses. Elsewhere in the region, big changes are underway. On Thursday 4 May you will have your opportunity to vote for who you think should be elected as the Mayor of the West of England Combined Authority. The Combined Authority will have new powers and direct control of funding previously controlled by Westminster. Our deal is worth over £1bn over 30 Each month Bristol mayor years, meaning you’ve Marvin Rees shares his views got a billion reasons to with Bishopston Voice get out and vote. If you’re not registered to vote in elections you’ll need to do so by midnight on Thursday 13 April. Just visit as members of the Combined www.gov.uk register-to-vote. Authority, working alongside our Whoever you choose as business community and other Mayor of the West of England partners as we manage new will work alongside me, Cllr Tim powers over regional transport, Warren (Leader of Bath & North housing, adult education and skills. East Somerset Council) and For more information, head to the Cllr Matthew Riddle (Leader of West of England website at www. South Gloucestershire Council) westofengland-ca.org.uk.

The Mayor’s View

Domestic and Commercial Fencing Specialists

We supply and install all types of fencing, decking and gates

Beyond a stammer AN Open Day is being held in Bristol by The McGuire Programme, a scheme run by people who stammer to help other people that stammer. The system of training was featured in a Channel 4 documentary, ‘Stammer School’ and has led to great improvements in the speech of people who stammer. The McGuire Programme teach tools and techniques to deal with the physical side of stuttering as well as addressing the psychological side. Matt Wilton is giving a presentation on Saturday 22 April from 11am - 1pm at Futures Inn, Cabot Circus, Bond Street, Bristol BS1 3EN to those who would like to learn more. A four-day course is starting in Bristol on May 10. For further details call: 07838 172 768, email: Matt.wilton@mcguireprogramme.com or www. mcguireprogramme.com

Installation Types n Closed board n Feather Edge n Timber panel n Picket fencing n Slotted post, Panel & Gravel boards

n General Repairs n Chainlink n Gates n Decking n Railings

Henleaze House,13 Harbury Road, Henleaze, Bristol, BS9 4PN

0117 9898208 or 07811 149095 e-mail: info@heads-apart.co.uk www.heads-apart-fencing.co.uk

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

n NEWS THERE is a lot happening at Golden Hill Community Garden in April, for both children and adults, so read on! Firstly, they are starting a new Sunday Club for families who have children with special educational needs or a disability. Commencing on 2nd April, 2-4pm, this is a lovely opportunity for entire families to enjoy the garden and engage in outdoor activities together every month. There will be music, games, exploring, pond dipping, den building, crafts and many other sensory activities. Quartet Community and John James Foundations have helped to fund and support this initiative. Sessions are only £5 and £3 for additional siblings. Booking essential. In addition to this club, families with a child/ren with SEND can enjoy an entire Adventure Day on the 20th April, 10am-4pm. There will be a chance to make pizza, which will be cooked on site in a frog clay oven. Activities will include outdoor games, sensory trails, treasure hunts, playing with parachutes and much more! Avon and Somerset Police have kindly helped to fund this and sessions are just £5. Once again booking is essential. The garden will also be running their usual, ever popular School Holiday Adventure Days for 5-12 year olds during the Easter break 11th and 18th April, 10am-4pm. The theme is 'Outlaws, the wildwood and fairy

bishopstonvoice

April, 2017

Packed Easter programme for Golden Hill Community Garden

tales!' These days are packed with wild outdoor fun and a work out for the imagination! £26 including pizza from the giant frog. Only 16 places so book early. For adults, the garden are now running 'Qi in the Garden!' This is Qi Gong sessions on a Tuesday, 2.30-3pm, fortnightly starting 12th April for 12 weeks.

Everyone is welcome for some gentle stretching, breathing and relaxation exercises to a soundtrack of birdsong in the garden. No experience or special clothing required. A date for the diary is the gorgeous, garden Spring Fair Saturday 13th May, 1pm-4pm. Music, dancing, plant sale, free kids' activities, pond dipping,

pizza and cake. Finally, the garden is open to the public every Wednesday anytime between 10am-4pm. It's a busy time of year with plenty to plant and grow! The garden is found behind Horfield Prison on the allotment site just off Monk Road. To find out more contact Lucy ghcgarden@gmail.com

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

Bristol’s Largest Indoor Window and Door Showroom is Open at Crystal Clear

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View the extensive range of stunning designer and traditional doors, windows and rooflights at Crystal Clear’s showroom or online at www.crystalclearbristol.co.uk ✓ Extensive Showroom ✓ Striking Designs, offering Low Upkeep, Energy Efficiency, Ease of Use and High Security ✓ PVCu, Aluminium, Sliding Sash and Casement Windows ✓ Composite, Bi-fold, Sliding, French, Stable and Patio Doors ✓ Exclusive Supplier of the MODO Collection from Apeer ✓ Established Local Company with an Excellent Reputation

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To find out more, please call us on:

01179 110 494 or visit www.crystalclearbristol.co.uk www.facebook.com/crystalclearbristol

24 Emery Road, Brislington, Bristol BS4 5PF

bishopstonvoice

n WHAT’S ON IN OUR AREA April 1 n Bristol Bach Choir present MacMillan: St Luke Passion; Barber: Adagio for Strings; Tallis: Lamentations of Jeremiah 7.30pm, Bristol Cathedral, College Green, an unforgettable evening of passion, power, precision and poignancy. Christopher Finch - conductor, Nigel Nash - organ, Bristol Ensemble - leader Roger Huckle. Phone: 0117 214 0721 or email: tickets@bristolbach.org.uk April 5th n Westbury Park WI meet each month at the new halls at Redland Parish church on Redland Green. Next meeting is April 5th from 7.30pm. April 21 n Senior Film Club - St Peter's Hall, The Drive, Henleaze. Home Instead Bring Joy Foundation is pleased to support the Henleaze Senior Film Club and bring you the following fun Monday afternoons, each starting at 2pm :- Monday 21st April 'The Dam Busters' FREE ADMISSION. Refreshments £3. Carers welcome easy access Transport offered by Dial-A-Ride, Tel 0845 139 875. For further details, please ring 0117 989 8210 April 22 n Saturday 22 April. Open Day for stammerers so that people can get information on The McGuire Programme. 11:00am -13:00pm (presentation starts at 11:00am) Where: Futures Inn, Cabot Circus, Bond Street, Bristol. BS1 3EN Who: Matt Wilton- Regional Director. Tel: 07838 172 768.Email:Matt.wilton@ mcguireprogramme.com Further information: www. mcguireprogramme.com April 27 n Thursday, 27th April 2017 Talk: Natural Pond Creation with Richard Fishbourne of “Bugs & Beasties” 7pm – 9pm at The Station, Silver Street, Bristol. BS1 2AG All welcome. Visitors £5 / Members £2. www.groworganicbristol.org / secretaryaog@gmail.coms April 29 n Bristol Cabot Choir Easter Concert – Haydn’s Nelson Mass & works by Bruckner and Mendelssohn - 29 April 2017 – 7.45 pm at Clifton Cathedral, Clifton Park, BS8 3BX. Tickets www.opus13.co.uk or call 0117 9230164/0117 9626521 Bristol Bach

Choir present MacMillan: St Luke Passion; Barber: Adagio for Strings; Tallis: Lamentations of Jeremiah Bristol Cathedral, College Green, an unforgettable evening of passion, power, precision and poignancy. Christopher Finch - conductor, Nigel Nash - organ, Bristol Ensemble - leader Roger Huckle. Phone: 0117 214 0721 or email: tickets@bristolbach.org.uk Charity No 1162680 May 6th n Piano and Cello recital at St Alban's Church, Bayswater Avenue (BS6 7NU), Brian Mullan (Cello) and Claire Alsop (Piano). Beethoven 5th Cello Sonata, Bach Concerto in E, Walton Cello Concerto (Movement 1) and new music by Bristol composer Phil Dixon. 7.30pm £10 (£5) wine and nibbles May 13 & 14 n Free Annual Music Festival to be held at the Bristol Music Club Clifton. Details www. reallyclassicalrelay.co.uk

WHAT’S ON A REGULAR BASIS Monday n Toddler group at Ardagh Pavilion, Kellaway Avenue, Horfield Common. Ages 03, cost £2.50 per family includes refreshments and biscuits. All welcome. Friendly vibrant group just drop in. Contact Kay on 01179426580 for further details. n FitSteps, Ashley Down Primary School, Olveston Road, 7-8pm. FitSteps® the new craze in dance fitness classes from ‘Strictly Come Dancing’s’ very own Natalie Lowe, Ian Waite and Mark Foster. This really is the most fun, graceful way to get in shape. n Kick Start Fat Loss Club, Ashley Down Primary School, Olveston Road, 8-9pm. Kick Start Fat Loss is a revolutionary new diet and exercise club currently running in Bristol. There is no calorie counting, daily points, fad foods or complicated workouts. *Weekly weigh in, measure and body stat recording. n Morris for fitness and fun, 7.15pm – 8.15pm at Horfield URC, Muller Road, Horfield, BS7 9RE during term time only, no performance element, small groups. Sticks and hankies provided. Tel/text: 07813 346819 / 0117 9401566, www.thegreatcaper.

co.uk n Redland Wind Band rehearses at the Quakers Meeting Room on Gloucester Road at 7.30pm. We sometimes have vacancies, currently mainly for bass instruments, horns and percussionists. Contact Andy Brown at redlandwindband@googlemail. com or on 07594240269 or via our website www.redlandwindband. co.uk . Get in touch if you would like to be put on our mailing list or would like to book us for events or fundraisers. n Redland Green Choir meets for rehearsals every Monday 7.30pm9.30pm at Redland Green School. We sing a wide variety of music. New members welcome: no auditions. For more information, visit www.rgscommunitychoir. wordpress.com or phone 0117 9443042. n Beaufort Junior Badminton Club. Venue: Cotham School Sports Hall, Cotham Lawn Road, BS6 6DT. Date/Time: Mondays from 6-7pm, term time only. Age Group: 11 18 years. All standards. Coaching and club play but also progression to Avon County Teams and senior clubs. Coaches CRB checked and Badminton England qualified. Contact: Penny Shears 0794 101 3514. Email: pennyshears@ googlemail.com n RAFA, City of Bristol branch and club Eastfield Westbury on Trym for ex-RAF and associate members. Skittle Alley, parties and functions. Live entertainment on Saturday evenings. Open Monday to Saturday lunchtimes and evenings. Sundays noon till 5pm. All enquiries telephone 0117 3291913. n New Fitness League (Exercise Movement and Dance class) for ladies. Low impact classes offer a fusion of dance, exercise and core strengthening, choreographed to music. Strengthen muscles, raise energy levels, improve balance and mobilise joints. 6.20-7.45pm at Fairlawn Primary School, Fairlawn Road, Montpelier, Bristol, BS6 5JL. Contact Rachael on 07966 418 714 / rachaelwilliams@ talktalk.net . The classes are ran on 5-7 week basis - charged as a block booking. This works out at £8 per class (1st Class Free). n Mondays 10:00am, 11:15am, 18:00pm. Yoga for everyone and all stages of life. Move, breathe, strengthen, calm at our beautiful YogaSpace Bishopston studio. Find

April, 2017

We would love to publicise your event Send details of your events and activities in the following format:

WHAT IT IS WHERE IT IS WHEN IT IS in no more than 40 words: email us at: news@bishopstonvoice.co.uk

out more at www.bristolyogaspace. co.uk or contact Clara hello@ bristolyogaspace.co.uk / 07530 053 543. Tuesday n The Golden Buds is a group aimed at 18 months to 4yearolds and is a fabulous opportunity to be outside with your little ones, digging, playing, finding newts and frogs, watering, singing and making things all in the heart of urban Bristol! Sessions run from 9.30-11am and 11.30-1pm in school terms. We take booking on a term by term basis. Each session costs £5, a second sibling is £2 and under 12 months can come along free. There’s squash and biscuits and a snack from the garden as well as a hot drink for parents. For more info, visit: thegoldenhillcommunitygarden. com n Scottish Country Dancing Get fit with Westbury Scottish Club. Classes for beginners at Leonard Hall, Trinity-Henleaze URC, Waterford Road, Henleaze, (Tel: Tina 0117 9075462). Classes for more advanced dancers at St Peter’s Church Hall, Henleaze, (Tel: Cheryl 0117 9590970). 7.30pm to 9.30pm wscbristol.com n 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 or: michesaunders@hotmail.com . n MOVE INTO FITNESS. Suitable exercise for the more mature ladies ran by a qualified teacher. Held at Horfield Baptist Church, 10.15am 11.15am. Tel: 01454 614886. n Pregnancy Yoga and Birth Preparation Classes at Horfield Leisure Centre, 7.309.30pm. Each session we have time for

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

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April, 2017 discussion and learning around different aspects of pregnancy, birth or parenting, getting to know other women in the group, yoga postures, positions and movements for labour, breathing, and simple relaxation and meditation techniques that are useful for pregnancy, birth and beyond. Suitable from 14 weeks of pregnancy until birth. With Relaxed Birth and Parenting Childbirth Educator and Doula Ly Malnick. Cost: £10 per session. Contact: Ly Malnick on 07843 377 718 (Booking essential) n Use the power of nutrition to improve your health, your mood and your figure. Eight week courses on Tuesdays at 2pm and 7pm, led by a BANT qualified nutritional therapist. Classes held at Lady Active, 180 Henleaze road, BS6 4NE. Tel: 07511 647 569 or email alex@ alexbarton.co.uk for more details. www.nutritioncoachbristol.co.uk n After school French Club for primary children at Gloucester Rd Quaker Meeting House. KS1 class: 4.10-4.50pm. £4.50. Playful practical classes full of games, songs and general silliness to inspire interest and confidence in French. Like French Club Bristol on Facebook or email: alice_m_watson@msn.com n Women’s Reading Group looking for new members. Meets monthly on the first Tuesday of the Month at 7:30pm. An informal group that reads a wide range of fiction. Contact Kay Snowdon ksnowdon29@gmail.com for further details. n A weekly Music Appreciation class is running throughout the winter. Come and join us as we listen to and talk about a selection of mainly classical music. No prior knowledge needed. Tuesdays 11-1 at St Mary Magdalene Church Rooms, Stoke Bishop. Music in Britain 18901939 including Elgar Delius and Vaughan Williams. Cost £15 for a single taster session or £100 for the whole 8week term. To book email matthewhm@ peacemail.com, or phone 0117 214 0418. For more info visit: heartmusicbristol.wordpress.com n Melody Makers Baby Friendly Choir A fun and friendly daytime choir for ladies running Tuesdays during term time.9:30-11:00am, The Beehive Pub, BS9 4QY. £5 per session, discounts for members. Contact Natalie www.facebook. com/melodymakerschoir 07890393175. n Bingo St Gregory’s Church hall Filton Road Horfield Every Tuesday at 2-00pm Everyone welcome all proceeds to church funds

Wednesday n Golden Hill Community Garden. 10.00am – 4.00pm. Come and get involved in your local community garden! No experience necessary and kids welcome. Learn about growing and relax in our beautiful space with a cup of tea. No need to come every week or stay all day. Our site is wheelchair accessible including our toilet. For more information contact Lucy ghcgarden@gmail. com or 07506 905 394. We’re just through the gates at the end of Monk Rd BS7 8NE www. thegoldenhillcommunitygarden. com n Bristol Voices Community Choir are welcoming new members, £5 a week (£3 concs) payable at the start of each term. We meet during the school term from 7.30pm to 9.30pm in St Werburgh’s Primary School, James St, BS2 9US. The school is fully accessible and has free parking. No experience is necessary and there are no auditions. You don’t have to read music either as all the songs are taught by ear. Our repertoire includes pop, folk, gospel, jazz, show tunes and world music. Find out more about the choir, at www. bristolvoices.org n New Harmony Ladies’ Choir Bristol. Established choir since 1994, we offer a chance for ladies to get together and have a good old sing! No auditions are necessary apart from placing you into the correct voice group soprano, mezzo soprano or alto. We are a very socially minded group and often enjoy activities outside the singing role. We perform several concerts a year and sometimes travel to other parts of the country to sing with other choirs. Our repertoire covers classical, choral, jazz, popular, folk, and show songs. Everyone is welcome to Horfield URC church hall, Muller Rd on Wednesdays 7.30-9. We’d love to meet you. For more information contact our website www.nhlcbristol.co.uk or our secretary, Angela nhlc@talktalk. com n Lazy Dog Film Club. A free, small, but perfectly formed community film club based at the Lazy Dog pub on Ashley Down Road. We run the club every other week (Wednesday) in the upstairs of the Pub on Ashley Hill. We screen from Oct April every year. All showings start at 8pm but we do advise people to book free places via LazyDogFilmClub@gmail.com , as we only have 35 seats per showing. For more information on the upcoming films, visit: www.

facebook.com/LazyDogFilmClub n Horfield Townswomen’s Guild. This friendly Townswomen’s Guild meets on the second Wednesday of each month at St Gregory the Great Church Hall, Filton Road, Horfield, Bristol BS7 0PD at 2.30pm. Why not come along and meet us? Just turn up, or ring Edna on 949 5413, and she will look out for you. n Squirrel Camp Forest School, Badock’s Wood, 9.45 11.15 (during term time). New afternoon group starting in autumn, 12.30, £6 per family. Contact: jennysanderson@ blueyonder.co.uk . n Reading group with a difference at Cheltenham Road Library, from 3pm. The group meets every fortnight to discuss short fiction, essays, memoirs and learn to look at these with a more critical eye. For the over 60's. No reading to do between meetings. People interested please speak to the Librarian at Cheltenham Road Library. n Mindfulness & Movement – Meditation and Qi Gong/Tai Chi for wellbeing. Gentle aerobic exercise and secular meditations for strength of body and mind. Dropin class, all equipment provided, 5.45-7.15pm £9 / £7 Bristol

Buddhist Centre, 162 Gloucester Road BS7. Tel Tim Mason 07789 200685 for more info. See www. bristolbuddhistcentre. org/ otheractivities/yogaandqigong n Sing! with the Bristol Children’s Choir. Open to children aged 713 from any school in Bristol. If your child loves singing and would like to do more, Out There Music Children’s Choir could be what you are looking for. We meet every Wednesday in term time from 4.45-6pm in the performing arts studio at Cotham School. More info, contact Holly Shannon on 07866587424, admin@ outtheremusicbristol.co.uk . n Clifton Women’s Institute, 7.30pm on the last Wednesday of the month at Alma Church, Alma Road, Clifton BS8 2ES. Contact by email: thecliftonwi@gmail.com or visit www.cliftonwi.blogspot.co.uk . Take advantage of our guest visits which are just £4. Better still why not join us and enjoy our fabulous Clifton WI 2016 programme for the whole year plus social clubs. Full membership details available. n Spiritual Healing at Westbury Park Spiritualist church BS6 7TH Every Wednesday, 2pm - 3.30pm every week. No appointment necessary, animals welcome.

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

bishopstonvoice

April, 2017

n WHAT'S ON CONTINUED Come along and feel the benefit. Also healing after Sunday evening service@8pm. n Margaret Morris Movement dance/exercise. Bradbury Hall, Henleaze. All welcome 1.0-2.0 pm £4 per session, 1st free Tricia, 07896346486 n Wednesdays 10:00am. Baby & Me post-natal yoga class, 10:00 11:00am plus tea and chat after. Supportive, friendly class with babies made very welcome. Move, breathe, meet and chat with other new mums at YogaSpace Bishopston. Find out more at www. bristolyogaspace.co.uk or contact Clara hello@bristolyogaspace.co.uk / 07530 053 543. n Why not join welsh national opera Friends. We support this world class company and everyone is very welcome to join. We offer:Monthly evening meetings at Redmaids High School MONTHLY on WEDNESDAYS at 7.15pm-these are talks with music. Costs-Friends £5.0 - There are many other benefits For further information contact: Margaret Borkowski:borkmail@ gmail.com Thursday n Bishop Road Community Choir. We are a mixed community choir, meeting at Bishop Road School from 7.45pm to 9pm. Everyone welcome to join, regardless of singing experience. There is no audition and the choir is open to anyone, not just parents of children at the school. We sing a variety of songs and perform locally. Looking forward to welcoming some new faces! n 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 9 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 n The Stepford Singers. Come and try Bishopston’s all female community choir. No need to read music and no auditions! We meet 1pm - 3pm so you can still be in time to pick up kids from school. For more info, email fran@ naturalvoice.net n West Bristol Orchestra meet at the United Reformed Church, Muller Road, from 7.15 - 9.15pm and play a wide range of classical music arranged for our small friendly orchestra. String players of Grade 5 and above are particularly welcome. For further information please ring 0117 968 3998. n Avon Harmony Ladies A Cappella Chorus meets for rehearsals every Thursday 7.30 -10pm at Fairfield High School, Allfoxton Road BS7 9NL. Visitors are always made welcome, and we are actively recruiting new members. There is no need to be able to read music; we provide teaching tracks for learning by ear. See our website for more details www.avonharmony. co.uk or contact Mandy on 0117 652693 or Barbara on 07717 424421. n Horfield Quakers hold a halfhour meeting for worship to be held every Thursday Evening from 6.307pm, at Horfield Quaker Meeting House, 300 Gloucester Road, Bristol, BS7 8PD. All are welcome.

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If you are reliable and fit then this is a role suitable for all age groups. The newspapers will be delivered to your home ready for distributing. Routes range from 300 to 500 newspapers. Tel: 01179 082 121 or email:emma@bishopstonvoice.co.uk along with your address and contact telephone number

n Pregnancy Yoga and Birth Preparation at Horfield Leisure Centre, 7.30-9.15pm. The classes offer you the time to celebrate your pregnancy, relax with your baby, ask questions and meet other mumstobe in a safe and welcoming environment. We cover breathing, relaxation, yoga and movement, active birth, hypnobirthing and physiology of labour and birth. For more information visit www. lymalnick.info, or contact Ly on 07843 377 718 / ly.malnick@gmail. com n Slimming World Bishopston. St Michael and All Angels Church (Pigsty Hill) Gloucester Road. Groups at 9.30am and 7.30pm every Thursday. A friendly, supportive and vibrant weekly group. Full support, advice and a liberating eating plan. No calorie counting and eating to satisfy everyone’s appetite. £9.95 to join and £4.95 per week after that. 6 and 12 week countdowns available. Just turn up or Call Sue on 0117 924 3556 or 07702 578 298 for a chat. n Kings Lawn Tennis Club Rusty Rackets, 19:30-21: 00. Want to get back into tennis? Come along to our fun and welcoming Rusty Rackets session every Thursday evening at Kings Lawn Tennis Club, Maplemeade ( just off Kings Drive) BS7 8JG. Nonmembers (£8) and members (£6) welcome! Contact Head Coach Elly Shearman only tennis .kings@hotmail.com for more details! n Bridge for Beginners and Improvers West of England Bridge Club now welcomes new/novice bridge players for weekly sessions held every Thursday afternoon. Cost £3. Doors open at 1.45pm and play is from 2.00pm to 4.00pm. No partner needed and we have experienced players to help and advice. Beginners lessons also offered email bridgeclassbristol @ gmail.com or ring 0117 2302694 for more info. Venue: Golden Hill Sports Club, Wimbledon Road, Bristol BS6 7YA. Full details at www. woebc.co.uk n Spiritualist church Westbury Park Cairns Road BS6 7TH Open development circle Thursday evening at 7.15 for 7.30 start All are welcome to come along and find the Spirit within you. You don’t have to be a church member. n Sporting Memories Group at the Gloucestershire County Cricket Ground most Thursdays from 11am to 12.30pm. A group suitable for people that are isolated or lonely and may have memory

We would love to publicise your event Send details of your events and activities in the following format:

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difficulties. The group is particularly for those that are interested in sport. Please contact John Collis on 07757527634 or come along to the ground from 11am. Saturday n Gloucester Road Market runs every Saturday from 10am-5pm on Pigsty Hill. Stalls include Herbert’s Bakery, The Spotless Leopard, Lee’s Teaks and Sam’s Jams. nWhiteladies Farmers’ and Fair Trading Market is now held EVERY Saturday, from 8.30am-2pm. Takes place at the junction of Whiteladies/Apsley/Burlington Roads. Stalls cover bread, cheese, local lamb and chicken, fish, preserves, cakes, sushi, local fruit and veg, wild food larder, and recycled tools, wooden items and much more. n Coffee, Tea and Refreshments served every Saturday from 10.30am to noon at Bishopston Methodist Church, 245 Gloucester Road. Join us for a rest and a chat. n The Clifton Garden Society are eager to attract new members from all parts of Bristol. The Society offer monthly visits by coach to country houses and gardens, a quarterly newsletter. and an annual holiday. If you would like to join this friendly group please call 0117 9737296 for full details. n 10:00am and 11:30am. Pregnancy yoga and birth preparation classes with Vivien Tallis at the beautiful YogaSpace Bishopston studio. Move, breathe, calm, chat and discover helpful, practical active birth support. Find out more at www.bristolyogaspace. co.uk or contact Clara hello@ bristolyogaspace.co.uk / 07530 053 543.

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

April, 2017

bishopstonvoice

n NEWS

A hobby that provides a real buzz COULD bees teach us humans a thing or two about building strong communities and helping each other? Beekeeper Alyson Hurst certainly thinks so. "Bees are fascinating creatures and are really intelligent," the 51-year-old says. "It's amazing how they work together for the greater good of the hive. They don't work as individuals; they work as a collective. Rather than every man for himself, everyone could benefit from taking on that ethos." Initially keeping bees had been the hobby of Alyson's husband Nigel but when she was made redundant from her job as an attachment therapist working with foster and adoptive families, she started taking more of an interest in the tiny creatures. "I was diagnosed with chronic fatigue and realised I couldn't go back to work. I took part in a foraging walk and realised I could mix the herbs that I grow in my garden with Nigel's beeswax and make hand creams and lip balms, which is what I started doing five years ago." The mum-of-two now runs a small scale business, called Hives and Herbals, selling honey, candles and hand cream to outlets in the Downend area. "I make things with the herbs I grow myself or from things that I forage. Downend has a wealth of foraging places like King George V Park, Lincombe Barn Woods and Leap Valley. I try to get things as locally as possible." A recent split from her husband has meant Alyson has had to do some deep thinking.

"Now Nigel and I have separated, I'm going to be a beekeeper in my own right. We've decided to split the hives half each and I'm going to see where I go from there." Alyson, who has daughters aged 21 and 24, keeps her two hives in her large garden but the marriage break-up means they are selling up. Luckily she has managed to secure a plot for her apiary at allotments in Downend and is now hoping people in the community will help her get the area ready to accommodate the bees. Support to transport the bees would be welcomed and it's not as daunting as it might sound. "Bees don't fly in the evening so we can close up the hive, stuff grass or a piece of wood in the entrance and put it in the car." Alyson's honey supply is dependent on the weather which can make her output unpredictable. "We take honey off the hive

around the end of May and then in August. The amount of honey varies hugely. For the last couple of years, the weather hasn't been too great; it's been sunny then rainy. The bees gather pollen and nectar when it's sunny but don't fly when it rains because it damages their wings. They then eat their stores so don't build up much. The last two summers we've had about 90lbs of honey but the summer prior to the that, which was really warm, we had 250lbs - it's a massive difference!" Interestingly, Alyson's honey is sold no further afield than Downend, a fact she's really proud of. "The honey isn't processed and has lots of pollen and other bits which are really good for allergies in it so it helps with local health and supports the immune system. Honey is also good for colds and easing stomach problems. I want to sell my honey as locally as possible. Alyson also collects propolis,

a substance also produced by bees which is beneficial to human health. Bees use it themselves as a glue to repair minute gaps in their hives. As it's so sought after, some beekeepers will scrape off all traces of propolis. "I would never do that as it would be detrimental to the bees. I just take off little bits. My aim isn't to make money from honey or propolis; it's to make sure the bees are well-looked after. If that means I have no honey, then that's absolutely fine." Once Alyson's hives are set up at the allotment, she is hoping to offer local people the chance to come along and see what it's like to be a beekeeper. It would be a natural progression from her work giving talks to schools and community groups as well as attending local events such as Heathfest with her 'observation hive' - a half-size hive with a glass top so people can see the bees working. "It's lovely to speak to local school children. I tell them 'My bees have been in your garden getting the pollen and nectar from your flowers. Then they fly back to their hive and make honey from it'. "When local people buy local honey from me, it's come from their flowers. I think that's really magical." If you would like to help Alyson or to find out more about her bees talks, you can call her on 07882 294683 or visit her Facebook page Hives and Herbals.

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

bishopstonvoice

April, 2017

n SUSTAINABILITY with Hamish Mills, Sustainable Redland Diversity is a word we need to take notice of on our march towards sustainability. When nature is diverse our world is at its best. It’s rich in flora and soil, abundant in food to feed the fauna and humans that live off it, and able to deal with traumas that might come its way. If it loses it, it loses all of the above. We know diversity is important in the business world. If there’s not enough, a business won’t survive. Any shop needs to be able to offer its customers as wide a range as possible of whatever it sells. Whiteladies Road doesn’t seem to do too badly on the diversity front. It has some pretty good shops on or by it – Better Food, Wild Oats, Seafood Fish, Kitchens, Ellis Brigham, Blackboy Hill Cycles, Gyles Sports, DIY and a news agent to mention some. Through these, a couple of chemists and some charity shops, it probably serves most people's’ needs. Now that the speed limit’s been reduced, the pavements widened and trees and flora planted down the middle, it's very pleasant to walk down too.

Diversity on Whiteladies Road However of all the space available along the road, the above take up a small proportion, so what of the rest? From here onwards diversity seems to come unstitched. The most common businesses in all that space are estate agents, with a grand total of nineteen of them, from the top of Blackboy Hill to the Clifton Down shopping area. To furnish the houses they sell, there are fourteen high end furniture shops. That makes a total of thirty three businesses connected with buying, selling and furnishing property. There’s no way Redland residents need that many. Why isn’t there a music shop, more independent clothes and shoe shops, a good toy shop, a wine shop (with respect to Corks of Cotham) and more? Some of the answers lie with us. We like internet shopping and

too many of us can’t see beyond supermarket convenience, which has reduced the diversity and choice of our shops. It's easy to buy a house if you’ve got the money, but impossible to buy a book, musical instrument or pair of shoes, unless it’s on line. Other answers are beyond us. My guess is that its high prices, rather than high turnover in Redland that have made real estate so lucrative. This in turn means high business rates, which discourages the diversity of small independent businesses, and encourages big chains and supermarkets that can pay it. What to do? shop locally in independent shops support new initiatives as much as possible be aware of the downsides of internet and supermarket shopping. do something about it by becoming active in a local community group

such as Sustainable Redland, the Redland and Cotham Amenities Society or Incredible Edible. Hamish Wills Sustainable Redland

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April, 2017

bishopstonvoice

n VET'S ADVICE FIRSTLY a huge thank you to all of our clients who sponsored us earlier in the year for our 5k night race, Back to Black. We were absolutely thrilled to be able to raise over £1000 for DAWG, our local greyhound and lurcher rescue and rehoming society. We had a great night out for the run, very wet, cold, dark and muddy but we rose to the occasion and Team Dawglers triumphed finishing as first team in the 5k and Nicky was first lady home. And a special mention to Debbie Coles’ two children, Harry aged 6 and Brianna aged 4, who ran the junior 1k race and set the standard for the rest of us! Nicky is now training for her next charity challenge and will be cycling 500 miles to Bordeaux in early July. The trip is over four days so 125 miles a day on a bike in aid of PROPS, a Bristol charity working with young adults with learning difficulties and disabilities. It will certainly be a challenge and a test of character, she has cycled that

far in a day before but never for 4 consecutive days! If you would like to sponsor Nicky then do hand in donations at reception or visit her donation page, mydonate.bt.com/ fundraisers/nickybromhall1 When not setting ourselves mad energetic challenges we are keeping very busy at Animal Health Centre. To provide more appointment slots we have taken on a new member of staff, Karen Wilson as part time vet. Karen and Nicky worked together many years ago at the University practice in Langford. Karen brings with her a wealth of experience and particularly enjoys medical cases and imaging with X-rays and ultrasound. It’s great to have her with us. Now is the time to vaccinate your rabbit against Myxomatosis and Viral haemorrhage disease (VHD) as both diseases are carried by flying insects. Last year a new strain of VHD appeared in UK and we now have stocks of the new vaccine available, please call for details and to book an appointment. Finally a reminder as the summer is almost on us, don’t forget your tick and flea remedies before the onslaught, do come in and chat to the nurses to find out the latest products that we have available to protect your pet. Star Patient 12 year old gorgeous ginger cat, James, was presented to us as he was off his food and even turning his nose up at this favourite Whiskas. When Sophie saw him she could feel a lump in his abdomen that was very suspicious as the cause of his problems. After blood test, x-rays and ultrasound, it was decided that he had a growth on his spleen and that surgery was called for.

We operated on James and found a spleen with large bleeding tumours and no sign of any spread elsewhere. His spleen was successfully removed and James went on to make an uneventful recovery and started to eat again. Analysis of the spleen showed it to be a Lymphoma. Splenic masses although common in dogs are quite rare in cats. Removal of a spleen in an adult animal is quite major surgery but once recovered the animal can manage very well without it. James’ prognosis is good as it appeared he had no spread at the time of surgery and we hope he will have many happy years ahead tucking into his Whiskas.

Sophie McGill. Veterinary Surgeon

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

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bishopstonvoice

April, 2017

n NEWS GOLD medal-winning garden designer Louise Bastow has set up a new initiative to teach people the art of flower arrangement. Louise uses locally grown and foraged flowers and plants for her monthly ‘kitchen table’ flower arranging workshops. An Easter Wreath is the subject of her next class, held on April 12, at her house in Redland. She has been interested in plants since she studied History of Art as a student and felt drawn to the beauty of the shape, form and colour of flowers, and how they were painted in still life. Louise said: “There are so many different shapes of flowers - they change over time, and how you combine them together changes them from a single stalk to a whole combination. “The courses are aimed at all age groups - people who have an enjoyment and appreciation of flowers but who haven’t had the time or the opportunity to refine their arrangement skills. The joy of working with flowers is that it is incredibly relaxing. There’s a lot of well-being that people get just working with natural

Saying it with flowers

products - I find that flowers instantly lift your mood.” The starting point for one of

Louise’s displays is the foliage. bouquets. She explained: “I know how all There is a workshop on these shrubs grow and it’s useful gathered and foraged posy to have a variety of texture. My making and table centres at the display today has some glossy Folk House, Saturday 22 April, holly, holm oak with a slightly morning and afternoon, £28 silvery underside, oak leaf each. hawthorn and some ivy with its Flower arranging with seed heads attached. Probably a seasonal lunch is also on a typical florist would snip that the menu at The Ethicurean, off but I like to include it as it Wednesday April 26, 10-1pm, tells you what stage of the year £60 including drinks and lunch. it is. The twigs have their little Bell's Diner, Weds June 21 buds at the end and add some from 10.30-2pm, a gathered and movement to the arrangement. foraged posy making workshop Woven through it are some deep followed by a set three course burgundy hellebores, pink and lunch with drinks for £50. white hellebores, plus dark red For further details contact scabious, white roses and two Louise on 07929 253942 or little Ammi heads. email Louisebastow@gmail.com. “The joy at the workshops is Visit bestofthebunch.co uk for that everyone will have their own details of all the workshops. flowers but the arrangement that they come home with will reflect their own, individual creativity. It’s really lovely to see how people come up with things that are just them.” Louise runs regular monthly kitchen table workshops at her home in Redland from 7pm9.30pm. Come along to try your hand at simple hand-tied posies, table centres, herbs and summer flowers, seasonal wreaths and gift Louise Bastow

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

April, 2017

bishopstonvoice

n GARDENING

Seasonal tasks for exciting time

Horticulture tips from our new columnist Lucy Sara

T’S all systems go in the garden during April, but it’s also the best time to enjoy the burst of colour and life that the season of Spring brings. We have had hints of Spring-like weather in March teasing us into leaving our coats at home. Heaven! Here are some jobs to keep you busy during this

exciting time... • Planting – now the soil is warming up it is optimal time to plant evergreen trees & shrubs. It’s also the time to get creative with your hanging baskets. Plant them up but be sure to keep them under cover until all risk of frost has passed. • Lawns – Feed, seed, mow. It is prime time to give your lawn the love it deserves. Be sure to make your first cut a gentle one with the blades set high. • Mulching – if you haven’t already done this now is still the best time to cover your beds and borders with a layer organic matter. I tend to spread a 3-4inch layer being careful not to smother woody plants at the base. Any organic matter that will rot down into the soil over time can be used, this might be well rotted horse manure, leaf mould, mushroom compost etc. • Pruning – Cut back Dogwood stems and Willow to just below knee height. Trim and shape Lavender and remove any dead stems, but be careful not to cut into the woody stems. Late flowering/summer Clematis can

be pruned back now as well as perennial ornamental grasses such as Miscanthus. • Sweetpeas – now is the time to plant these hungry little plants into containers, tubs or straight into your beds. Be sure to plant 1-2 plants at the base of each cane forming a pyramid/arch/ tunnel shape. I love using hazel stems but good old bamboo canes will do the job. Surround with slug prevention and mulch well. • Sow perennial flowers -place a grid of seeds into a tray of compost an inch apart. Cover with a fine layer of compost, water and put in a sunny, cool spot. Don’t over water. Cosmos, Delphiniums, Astrantia and Digitalis are some of my favourite. Last year I sowed Beetroot, Cima di Rapa, Carrots Rocket, Coriander & Flat Leaf Parsley for one of my clients to enjoy. A galvanised water trough bought from a well know farming supplier made the perfect veg/ salad plot. • General jobs – keep on weeding. Dry days are best so the weeds die off completely. Bind weed will be making its appearance.

Be sure to follow the roots as far back as possible and dig deep to remove as much as possible. April is going to be a particularly busy month for me as I have taken on a new planting design job for a large Queen Anne style house in Devon. An acre of newly landscaped lawns and borders needing to be filled with plants in keeping with this elaborate and eccentric era. Happy gardening!

A novel way to support Bristol’s hospice LOCAL charity St Peter’s Hospice celebrated World Book Day with a very special visit when author Nathan Filer visited the hospice to meet patients, staff and volunteers. A local man, Nathan lives in Bristol and lectures in Creative Writing at Bath Spa University. His visit to St Peter’s Hospice was especially poignant as his grandfather was cared for by the charity in 2002. While visiting the hospice Nathan encouraged people to take advantage of the charity’s special Book Month campaign, which sees paperback books being sold for just 49p and hardback books for 99p at all St Peter’s Hospice charity shops across Bristol for the whole of March. He said: “St Peter’s Hospice has personal significance for me. My granddad was cared for here and my family were so grateful for the support he was given, and also the respite offered to my nan.

“It was very moving to return to the hospice and to be reminded of the wonderful, important work that is done here. I want to encourage the good people of Bristol to buy a book from their local St Peter’s Hospice charity shop today, to support World Book Day and this important charity.”

Nathan, published The Shock of the Fall in 2013 to wide critical acclaim. It won The Costa Book of the Year, The Betty Trask Prize, The National Book Award for Popular Fiction and The Writers’ Guild Award for Best First Novel. It is a Sunday Times Bestseller and has been translated into thirty languages.

The English language editions alone have sold over half a million copies. John Flanagan head of supporter relations at St Peter’s Hospice said: “It was great to welcome such an esteemed author to St Peter’s Hospice, especially on World Book Day! The patients and staff loved meeting Nathan; visits like this are so important for raising morale and brightening up a day. “Books generate a wonderful income for the hospice and offer a way for supporters to help simply by having a clear out of their book shelves or by popping into a shop and picking up a bargain read. “We sell more than 300,000 books every year in our stores and this support from customers means we can continue caring for patients and families who really need our help.” To find out more about St Peter’s Hospice visit www. stpetershospice.org

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

bishopstonvoice

April, 2017

n NEWS

A classical music treat is in store PIANIST Simon Callaghan joins forces with Bristol Symphony Orchestra for an evening of stunning classical and romantic works. Bristol Symphony Orchestra are supporting Age UK Bristol this April by giving a concert with Steinway Artist, Simon Callaghan. An Evening of Classical Music (in support of Age UK Bristol) will take place on Saturday 22 April, 7.30pm at St Mary Redcliffe Church. Age UK is a wholly independent local charity which has evolved from a small user-led organisation formed in 1995, to a charity delivering a wide-ranging programme of support services to older people over the age of 50 years. The charity delivers support services throughout the city with a particular focus on reaching disadvantaged older people in Bristol's most deprived neighbourhoods. Age UK Bristol's aim is to support older people in the city to live independently in the community for as long as they wish to do so, to realise their aspirations and ambitions, and to make informed choices to maintain the best quality of life in later year. The charity is committed to promote a positive view of the contribution that older people make to society. Throughout its history Age UK has worked in close partnership with the local statutory, community and voluntary sector,

and is an active member of a number of key local and regional networks. The charity has gained a reputation for being innovative, strategic and forward thinking and is the lead partner in the Bristol Ageing Better Partnership, which has a membership of over 100 local organisations. Concert: Simon Callaghan Piano Bristol Symphony Orchestra William Goodchild Conductor Imogen Armstrong Guest Leader Programme: Beethoven Egmont Overture Chopin Piano Concerto No. 1, op.11, E minor Strauss Serenade, op.7, E-flat major Mozart Symphony No. 38, K.504, D major (Prague) St Mary Redcliffe Church, Colston Parade, Bristol BS1 6RA Tickets: £15.00 and £12.50 (concessions) available in advance online or on the door on the night. www. bristolsymphonyorchestra.com

Simon Callaghan

n BOOKS OF THE MONTH The Heart Goes Last Margaret Atwood THE story opens with married couple Stan and Charmaine living in their car having lost everything following a financial crash. Their precarious vulnerability is for her slightly numbing and unreal, and for him an outrage. Their reactions are very different and the tension gnaws away at their relationship, stripped bare as it is without the props of comfort and security. While she takes a bar job and tries to be outwardly positive to conceal her inner panic, Stan is more openly cynical and is plagued by a feelings of personal failure and insult. They find themselves at the mercy of lawlessness: organised crime and dangerous individuals taking hold of swathes of the dilapidated rust belt to form a new world beyond their control. The

sickening part for Stan is that his criminal brother, Connor, seems to be swimming in these new waters just fine while he, who has consistently played by society’s rules, is sinking. At work, Charmaine sees an hypnotically reassuring solution beamed out over the bar room TV screen, a bright shining social structure in form of a new community, Positron. She feels that the soothing and charismatic figure, Ed, is speaking directly to her, when he laments the fate of so many ‘good’ people now lost in a wilderness. The life ‘someone like her’ truly deserves, away from this messy hardship, is just an interview and a signature away… She convinces Stan to visit the compound, and having been wined and dined they both agree to sign up, as the alternative seems so much worse. The story then proceeds to wrangle with the question of how to define freedom: is it better to be free from danger and to live a calm yet systematic and confined life, or to have personal autonomy at the daily risk of starvation and attack?

Un-grounded and powerless, they try to anticipate the next outcome by referring to reassuring film plotlines and tropes, where even at the darkest moment the heroes always survive and it’s all ok in the end. The book exposes the lies we tell ourselves and willingly believe, as the actual outcomes nearly always surprise, and take the characters ever further into a multilayered claustrophobic horror and absurdity they are increasingly helpless to affect. Inner dialogue is punctuated with stings of selfchastisement, regret that they have allowed themselves, even before the financial crash, to sleepwalk through life accepting clean sheets and comfortable living for an unquestioning mind, and that this has now left them as pawns to be manipulated: as Stan says, “She’s as unprepared for all this […] as I am”. This is a dystopian, tense, unforgiving story, consistently paced with no let up. The barbed plot twists and turns like an angry wild thing, as Atwood challenges us with things we may struggle to un-know, things all too plausible if you take the way we

can compromise what we truly think and feel in order to get by and fit in, to a logical conclusion. She observes how day by day we give up small freedoms by being unquestioning, and can have selective vision when it comes to the bigger arcs of history. This allows her to, in a myriad of ways, show us the mechanisms and technologies, some seen some unseen, of herding and oppression, by which an imposed structure or ‘big idea’ can directly and intimately impact a person’s life and relationship, body and morality. A timely read. This book and many others by the same author are available from your local library – you can order online or from the library, with no reservation charges to pay! By the same author: The MaddAddam Trilogy: Oryx and Crake (2003), The Year of the Flood (2009), MaddAddam (2013) Novels: Moral Disorder (2006), The Blind Assassin (2000), The Handmaids Tale (1985) Collections: Good Bones (1992), Wilderness Tips (1991)

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

Care at Home Do you, or a relative, need a home care service? Our friendly service is easy to set up and we tailor so it is just right for you. • Fast assessment • Flexible hours • Simple prices • Quality care service

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n TAKE A BREAK Adult puzzles

April, 2017

PUZZLES FOR EVERYONE

Children’s puzzles

WORDSEARCH

Can you find 47 edible plants vertically, horizontally or diagonally?

E H E E I P G I R T Q H T T M R B R L

Y I E N I H Z T D M A R T I C H O K E

H N K N E E Y S O D B C E L E R I A C

S I A R B T P H N M C E L E R Y Y T R

K C K E C O U P I J A R L E T T U C E

H I E M T H I R O U P T Y K D P E A S

N T S A A M A C N G W M O C W C R P S

F P T P E R X R H I E N D I V E O E D

E O V N R H R G D I P K Y O C G S R G

N K T C E O O O S P L A N T A I N F N

N O L J S U U W W T K I E R C H I V E

E S C A R L E T B E A N L S R T G Y S

L V G D G D K J S K S I B E C L L N O

R E D P E P P E R U C K T H G Y A M Y

Each horizontal row, each 2x2 square and each column must contain all the numbers 1-4.

1 4 3

SOLUTIONS

L C K E R K S C A L L I O N L K S U T

ODD ONE OUT (adult)

S C E S J G P A T M C H J E C O L E T

Elephant No. 7

R U L L D R R M S S H A L L O T O R E

TXT PERT

A Z C U A K D V U E G G P L A N T N N

EASY for children

Across 2 France, 4, Mali, 5 Laos, & Aruba, 8 Granada Down 1 Chile, 2 Faso, £ Columbia, 6 Spain

P A P P O K M F M P A U B E R G I N E

SUDOKU

ODD ONE OUT

Seven elephants make three pairs – and one odd one. But which is it?

1 2

TXT PERT

The numbers point you to the letters on a phone keypad

Clues Across 2. 372623 4. 6254 5. 5267 7. 27822 8. 4736232

Down 1. 24453 2. 3276 3. 26566242 6. 77246

2 is A, B or C 3 is D, E or F 4 is G, H or I 5 is J, K, or L

6 is M, N or O 7 is P, Q, R or S 8 is T, U or V 9 is W, X, Y or Z

4 4 5

6 7

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bishopstonvoice

April, 2017

n NATURE WATCH With Dawn Lawrence

USUALLY only write about local wildlife – countryside columns are available elsewhere. But as I write this the daffodils are just coming out and daffodils are too beautiful to ignore. The big yellow cultivars still predominate in gardens, although many smaller and multi-headed species are now also grown. But we do have our own native daffodil in Britain: as Wordsworth found whilst wandering lonely as a cloud. But that was in the Lake District, I hear you cry! And so I come to my excuse for writing about them... Up until the 1880’s wild daffodils could still be found as near to the growing city of Bristol as Westbury-on-Trym and Filton Meads. But before those busy Victorians began building our houses in Bishopston and Redland I would hazard that breezy banks of dancing daffodils would have

been found right here: this area is well within wild daffodil country. The daffodil is an enchanting flower, sweet and shy, turning its pretty face away. It is the national flower of Wales and the county flower of Gloucestershire. Daffodils are so well-beloved that a crowd, a host of poems have been written about them. They are strongly associated with Spring and Mothering Sunday, flowering in the Lenten period immediately before Easter so that they are also known as Lent Lillies. The delicate native species is paler than the typical garden variety and its flowers nod from stems no more than 10cm long. Yet sometimes it occurs in vast numbers that light the woods and meadows with sumptuous colour. It’s scientific name is Narcissus pseudonarcissus which seems rather odd but the name does not suggest that it’s not quite daffodilly enough – it is simply that it is different from the first named daffodil, Narcissus poeticus, the poet’s daffodil or pheasant’s eye. It is like that Narcissus, but not quite like it. The scientific name is taken from the Greek myth of Narcissus who fell in love with his own handsome reflection and died, from a broken heart, unable to tear himself away from the pool he was gazing into - we met a dog like that once! There was a time when the wild daffodil was so common that large numbers of people would come to pick them in the western counties of England and in Wales. Londoners could take

live happy! with

Slimming World

the “Daffodil Special” from Paddington to the fields of the “Golden Triangle” around Newent, where wild daffodils are common to this day. Apparently the place in Westbury-on-Trym where the wild daffodils grew was “well known to the children of the period” but eventually the owner of the land had them all dug up in the mid 1880’s because he was “annoyed by folk coming to look for the flowers”! So, sadly, only their ghosts remain. We went to check - though I could almost imagine those smaller daffodils at the front of Cote House... This is my photograph of the living, from Gloucestershire.

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bishopstonvoice

April, 2017

n ON THE BEAT

News from the local policing team with Adam Dolling

THE arrival of spring can make us all feel better. We can finally say goodbye to the dark months of winter and look forward to lighter, warmer evenings. But rising temperatures and longer days can mean an increase in incidents of anti-social behaviour (ASB). We have received a number of calls recently about ASB involving young people hanging around at the Birchall allotments in Redland. We spoke to a group of boys and dealt with them appropriately. Please do report all incidents of ASB to us so we can investigate and take appropriate action. Whilst you might worry your issue seems like a trivial matter and not worth bothering us with, we take all reports seriously and don’t always treat things as isolated incidents – we may be looking at a pattern of behaviour, so every report helps us to build up a case file. You can report ASB to us using the form on the ‘contact us’ section of our website www.

avonandsomerset.police.uk I’m pleased to introduce our new beat manager for Bishopston, PC David Rockell. PC Rockell has been working from Southmead Station for the past two years as a response officer; prior to that he worked for ten years with Northumbria Police. He has already visited Ashley Down Junior School, Bishop Road Primary School and Brunel Field Primary School to introduce himself to local children and is looking forward to getting to grips with the issues which matter most to the local community. Please say hello when you see him out and about. Last month we were able to return a stolen motorbike to its rightful owner. One of my PSCOs spotted the bike on Carnarvon Road, which turned out to be just a five minute walk from where it was stolen. Unfortunately we haven’t made any arrests in this case, but it’s always good returning stolen property to victims. The time has now come to

move out of Southmead Police Station, following its sale last year. In the short term, the local neighbourhood team will be based at The Bridewell in the city centre. We have found a new permanent home for them and the police enquiry office in Southmead, and we’ll be able to report more on this next month. We would like to reassure residents that our enquiry office opening hours will remain the same and there will be no change in the number of staff covering the area. You can continue to contact us directly by email from the police website or by calling 101. Don’t forget, you can follow what the team gets up to on Twitter @ASPBristolNorth or you can contact us on the Avon and Somerset Police website (www. avonandsomerset.police.uk) if you have a local issue you would like to raise with us. Until next time Sergeant Adam Dolling

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Homes for active lifestyles

Stoke Gifford Village An ExtraCare Charitable Trust Village

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Our exciting new Retirement Village at Stoke Gifford has been designed specially to enable people over 55 to make the most of their independence. Set amidst a wealth of superb social and leisure facilities, the apartments range from 54m2 to 91m2 and are well equipped with central heating, double glazing and all connection points. High quality fitted kitchens include fridgefreezer and washer-dryer by Bosch. Apartments also have the latest safety and security measures. Shower rooms have slip resistant, self-draining floors and 180 degree opening doors for emergency access. Many homes also have balconies, and there is communal on-site residentsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; parking including disabled bays. Homes will be available for outright purchase, shared ownership and rent through the local council. Stoke Gifford Village is a vision of The ExtraCare Charitable Trust, a registered charity creating better lives for older people since 1988.

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Stokegiffordvillage

Charges will apply. Details of any costs associated with your home, care and Village services will be provided as part of your application. The ExtraCare Charitable Trust, registered charity number 327816, is a company limited by guarantee and registered in England and Wales as company number 2205136. Its registered office is at 7 Harry Weston Road, Binley Business Park, Binley, Coventry, CV3 2SN. Copyright ÂŠ 2017 - The ExtraCare Charitable Trust

bishopstonvoice

April, 2017

n INSIDE OUT IT’S no secret that Bristol is an absolute hotbed of creativity and forward thinking, and increasingly we can add design excellence to that list. Bishopston resident Laura Pendlebury is a product designer specialising in unique lights made from old golf clubs, also known as Baffy Nook. With a background in spatial planning and teaching art, Laura has wholeheartedly embraced the ‘cradle to cradle’ approach to design by sourcing her raw materials ethically and sustainably (initially from Bristol homelessness charity Emmaus),

and upcycling them into something new. Golf clubs cannot easily be recycled or reprocessed due to the mixed metal content, so repurposing is the best way to rescue them from an eternity in landfill. Laura’s designs incorporate the entire club, not just parts, which apart from improving the green credentials, also preserves and celebrates the original craftsmanship that went into making the clubs originally. Impressively she personally manufactures each one by hand from the sanding to the metal

with interior designer Zoe Hewett

work. Using paints to add punches of colour to some of the clubs, different woods, flexes and shades, no two are the same. These witty and stylish lights have appeal beyond just those in golfing circles, and rightly so. To find out more and brighten up any dark corners in your home, you can browse and buy online at www. baffynook.com

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Q1 Bishopstonvoice 1 12/01/2017 1:55 pm To Andrews advertise, contact Emma180x120.indd on 0117 9082121 or 07715 770448 or email emma@bishopstonvoice.co.uk. Got news? Email: news@bishopstonvoice.co.uk

April, 2017

n PROPERTY OF THE MONTH

bishopstonvoice

14 Bolton Road, Bishopston, BS7 8BW, Guide price ÂŁ399,950 This individual, architect designed detached house is situated in the heart of Bishopston, perfect for accessing all the amenities that the area has to offer. Built to a high standard in 2013, the property feels light and airy thanks to the large windows and skylights that were incorporated as part of the design process. The open plan living space runs the length of the property with a large window at one end, and full height sliding doors at the other that lead to the garden. The kitchen is neatly tucked away off this space and overlooks the rear courtyard. There are also a number of integral appliances. There is an additional room on this floor which can be used as a third bedroom / study / playroom etc. A useful storage area and cloakroom complete this floor. Upstairs there are two good sized bedrooms and a family bathroom which has a bath and a shower cubicle. The utility cupboard which houses the washing machine, dryer and boiler is also on this level. The property can be further enhanced, subject to obtaining the relevant and necessary consents, by creating a roof terrace, which you would access from the second bedroom. Outside, there are two private enclosed courtyard areas. There is also plenty of scope here to landscape these further, especially the main rear courtyard, if someone wished to do so. Incorporated in the building there is an external storage room which has plenty of space to store bikes and plenty of other bits & pieces. What really is a bonus for the area is the off road parking space which comes with this home. Being sold with no chain, this is the perfect home for someone who wants a low maintenance property in the heart of this sought after and popular area. Please note, this property is owned by an employee of the BPC 180 x 120 Mag Ad.pdf 1 07/10/2016 13:04 Ocean group.

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

CMY

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April, 2017 GARDENING SERVICES

LOCKSMITHS

63 PLUMBING

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Did you know Kendall Harper agreed sales on nearly half of all properties sold over ÂŁ600,000 in St Andrews, Montpelier and Bishopston last year. This is 3 times as many as our nearest rival*. Trust in our local experience to get the best possible price for your home. For a Free Valuation please call us on 0117 9094400 or visit www.kendallharper.com

Kendall Harper Competitor A Competitor B Competitor C Competitor D Competitor E Competitor F Others

*source Rightmove

42.9% 14.3% 12.7% 7.9% 4.8% 3.2% 3.2% 11%