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Breaking down barriers to exercise See page 16
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April, 2022 Issue 111
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HRH The Duke of Kent officially opened Trinity Academy Bristol's £25m new buildings in Lockleaze. Report: Page 19
Warning as Covid cases rise PEOPLE in Bristol have been warned to continue taking precautions against coronavirus following a sharp rise in cases last month. While an increase was expected following the removal of restrictions, council and health officials are reminding residents that there are actions we can all take to protect one another.
"Covid-19 has not gone away, large parts of the world remain unvaccinated and the future is uncertain," they said in a statement. "We need to continue to do what we can to reduce the spread of the virus and remain prepared for outbreaks and the emergence of new variants." The authorities have published a Bristol Living
Safely with Covid-19 Strategy for the next 12 months, which can be found at https://tinyurl. com/24dkxtxb It focuses on prevention, protection, treatment and response. Confirmed cases rose in Bristol from 458 per 100,000 people on March 2 to 850 per 100,000 just nine days later.
Harry, 85, inspires school's runners Harry Clayton, 85, loves running at St Monica's Trust's Westbury Fields site. Now Bristol Free School is also getting use of the grounds for PE lessons. PAGE 21
Windows trails salute Ukraine Both Bishopston and Chandos Window Wanderland events included displays paying tribute to the people of Ukraine following Russia's invasion. PAGES 6 & 7, 14 & 15
£85m scheme for St Christopher's A full planning application has gone in to Bristol City Council for the £85m redevelopment of St Christopher's Square. PAGE 11
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April, 2022
n NEWS
Stepping out for hospice LORD Mayor Councillor Steve Smith completed The Rugby March on March 13 to raise vital funds for local charity St Peter’s Hospice. The councillor for Westburyon-Trym and Henleaze took part in the sponsored walk with his wife and children, joining more than 500 supporters from all areas of Bristol on the scenic route. A gripping rugby game between Bristol Bears and Harlequins topped off the day. Sarah Allen-Gunn, director of fundraising and communications at St Peter's Hospice, said: “We’d like to say a huge thank you to everyone who came to The Rugby March on Sunday to raise money for the hospice. The event is set to raise £40,000 which makes a huge difference to services for local people.
Lord Mayor Steve Smith walking The Rugby March route with Lady Mayoress Kath and their son Daniel “The support from Bristol Bears was phenomenal and every walker came back with a smile on their face.” A number of supporters took part from headline sponsors for the event, the Bristol Port
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Company, and the JeffWay Group. Over £33,000 has been raised so far for St Peter’s Hospice, but there is still time to donate at: www.stpetershospice. org/support-us/make-a-
donation/ The next big fundraising event for the hospice takes place this month with the Tour de Bristol bike ride on April 9 in which cyclists tackle 40k, 65k and 100k routes.
Useful numbers Bristol City Council 0117 922 2000 Citizens Advice Bureau 0844 499 4718 Police www.avonandsomersetpolice.uk General enquiries: 101 Emergency: 999 Fire www.avonfire.gov.uk General enquiries: 0117 926 2061
Emergency: 999 NHS Health Call 111 Well Aware (health and social care information) www.wellaware.org.uk Freephone: 0808 808 5252 We are Bristol helpline Freephone 0800 694 0184 Mon-Fri 8.30am-5pm Weekends 10am-2pm
Complaints Despite our best efforts, we sometimes get things wrong. We always try to resolve issues informally at first but we also have a formal complaints procedure. If you have a complaint about anything in the Bishopston Voice, contact the publisher using the details below. We aspire to follow the Code of Conduct of the NUJ (National Union of Journalists), which holds journalists to a high standard of behaviour. Further details of the complaints process can be found on the Voice website here, or can be obtained by contacting the Publisher. A member of the
Our May deadline is April 20. To ensure your news or letter is included, please contact us by this date. Advertisers are also asked to contact us by the same date.
Your views Letters for publication can be sent to the above email addresses or by post to Letters, Bishopston Voice, 16 Ashmead Business Centre, Ashmead Road, Keynsham, BS31 1SX. The editor reserves the right to edit your letter.
PUBLISHER’S NOTE: Bishopston Voice is independent. We cannot take responsibility for content or accuracy of adverts, and it is advertisers’ responsibility to conform to all relevant legislation. We cannot vouch for any services offered. Opinions are not necessarily those of the editor. Bishopston Voice is distributed each month to Bishopston residents. If for some reason you do not get a copy, please collect one from local pick-up points. Feedback is always welcomed, contact Emma Cooper on 0117 908 2121 or emma@bishopstonvoice.co.uk. This month 10,700 copies copies will be distributed around Bishopston, Redland and St Andrews.
Got news? Email: news@bishopstonvoice.co.uk
bishopstonvoice
April, 2022
n NEWS
Mayor's call to support Ukraine RESIDENTS in Bishopston are being urged to come forward to host Ukrainian refugees in their homes. Mayor Marvin Rees announced a call for people across the city to become sponsors of those fleeing the conflict under a new government-backed scheme, Homes for Ukraine. He told a Bristol City Council meeting on March 15 it would cover Ukrainians and immediate relatives, including those with no family ties in Britain. Mr Rees said sponsors must provide accommodation for at least six months and were eligible for an optional £350 monthly “thank-you payment” for up to a year. “We are inviting Bristol residents who have friends and family in Ukraine who they would like to sponsor to come to Bristol to get in touch with our resettlement team,” he said. “Those who come under the scheme will be able to live and work in the UK for up to three years and access benefits, healthcare, employment and other support. In the first phase, people will need to have a named person who they wish to sponsor. There is no cap on places. “In terms of local authority resourcing we will be receiving £10,500 per person with an additional top-up for child education. There will be security checks of hosts and safeguarding which local
authorities are responsible for. “We also welcome any individuals or organisations who can offer practical support in neighbourhoods to get in touch, particularly those with Ukrainian, Russian or Polish language skills to help us coordinate, support and welcome new residents arriving in the city.” The mayor said Bristol was a proud City of Sanctuary with a long track record. “As a city council we have resettled 380 people from the Middle East and North Africa before Covid,” he said. “Since April 2021 we have resettled 30 people through the UK Resettlement Scheme and we will resettle another six families before the end of April. The families include people with high medical needs and people who were persecuted because they are from a minority ethnic or religious group in their home country. Since the Afghan crisis in summer 2021 we have supported 303 Afghans in temporary accommodation in Bristol and have provided moveon settled accommodation and private rented sector housing to 105 Afghans. We know Bristolians have stepped up to these appeals in the past and will respond to this one too. Mr Rees asked residents who want to become sponsors and people or organisations that can help to email bristolrefugeeteam @bristol.gov.uk
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bishopstonvoice
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April, 2022
n NEWS
Tributes to gran who Council writes off died after collision £1.5m rent arrears TRIBUTES have been paid to a ‘loving’ grandmotherof-four from Southmead after she died last week. Nora Pomery, who was in her 80s, was walking in Southmead Road, in Bristol, at about 5pm on Tuesday 22 February when she was critically injured in a collision involving a car. She was taken to hospital, but died on Thursday 3 March. Her son David, daughter-in-law Mandy and four grandchildren Gabriela, Luke, Kieran and Georgia said they are ‘deeply saddened by this tragic loss’. They added: “Nora was a loving, caring and wonderful person that will be truly missed. “If someone has any information whatsoever that could help with the investigation, please contact the police.” A police investigation into the collision is ongoing.
Is your child short sighted? Did you know you can do things to help?
MORE than £1.5 m of unpaid rent racked up by nearly 3,500 former council tenants is being written off. Bristol City Council cabinet agreed officers should give up trying to chase the debts, which are all over three years old. No payments have been made by any of the 3,446 ex-tenants in the last 12 months – each owing an average of £446 – and the money is now considered unrecoverable and accounted for in the authority’s budget. A report to cabinet said the outstanding total debt for the council’s housing revenue account (HRA) was £13.1m, of which £8.5m related to current tenants' rent arrears. Cabinet member for housing Cllr Tom Renhard told the meeting: “While the vast majority of rental income due to the council is collected in a timely way, and our ethical
enforcement and recovery methods are effective at helping tenants who have fallen behind in rent payments, there are inevitable instances where debts accrue and they are not recoverable.” The cabinet member said a recent internal audit had resulted in better management of bad debts to prevent them building up. Labour Cllr Marley Bennett told the meeting on March 3, it was important that the local authority struck the right balance between recovering money owed and protecting vulnerable people who genuinely could not pay. He said: “We have a policy in place to differentiate between those who can’t play and those who won’t play, so I’m pleased we are willing to write off debts where it’s appropriate.” By Adam Postans, Local Democracy Reporter
“One day I’ll explore the Amazon” Slow their short-sightedness not their ambition
At Lynne Fernandes Optometrists, we offer a programme which is clinically proven to slow down short-sightedness progression in children by 59% on average.1† This reduces your child’s dependency on glasses, can provide thinner lenses, and decreases the likelihood of certain eye health conditions later in life. We are passionate about this opportunity to protect children’s future eye health. Our myopia management clinics are backed with evidence and research, so you can be reassured that you and your child will have the best care.
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† Over 3 years, compared to a single vision 1 day lens. 1. Chamberlain P, et al. Optom Vis Sci. 2019;96:556–567
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Got news? Email: news@bishopstonvoice.co.uk
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bishopstonvoice
April, 2022
5
n NEWS
'Residents sidelined over Ban for bike thief Romney House scheme' BRISTOL City Council’s housing company was accused of “ignoring and mocking” residents as its plans for 268 homes at Romney House overcame the final hurdle. Councillors over the border in South Gloucestershire, where roughly six of the properties will be built, said Goram Homes and developer partner Vistry Partnerships – formerly Bovis Homes – had given neighbours a “rough ride” by not providing them with adequate information or enough consultation time. The development management committee voted by a majority to approve the detailed scheme in Lockleaze, following Bristol council’s lead in February and outline permission previously granted by both local authorities. But 21 South Gloucestershire residents and members representing wards in both unitary authorities objected amid concerns that the new buildings, which will be up on a ridge and almost two metres higher than standard two-storey houses, would “tower” over homes.
Stoke Park and Cheswick ward Lib Dem Cllr James Arrowsmith told the South Gloucestershire Council committee: “Although developers have stated they have listened to residents’ concerns, and some positive changes have been made, residents have felt ignored and even mocked by this submission. “Developers have pressed ahead with two-storey homes that would tower over the existing structures at 9.5m high, compared to the current 7.75m housing that currently exists – 9.5m is much more typical of a three-storey build and would not adhere to the promises the developers made to residents.” He said neighbours were given less than one month to comment. A report to the meeting on March 4 said that while officers recommended approval, the council’s landscape officer was “still concerned about the visual dominance of the new roofs on the skyline” and the conservation officer had concerns about the “lack of assessment on the visual impact on Stoke Park”.
A BIKE thief has been jailed for 52 weeks and banned from entering parts of Bristol city centre for 30 months. Ryan Hack, 21, was sentenced at Bristol Magistrates Court after being convicted of 10 offences committed over a three-month period. He admitted to stealing six bikes in the city between 8 June and 2 September last year. He also pleaded guilty to two counts each of handling stolen goods and going equipped for theft. He received a 52-week sentence at a court hearing on February 23. Magistrates also agreed to impose a criminal behaviour order (CBO), as requested by Avon and Somerset Police, which will prevent Hack from visiting parts of the city once he has been released, including Broadmead, the Harbourside and Hotwells. Hack, of Shirehampton Road in Sea Mills, will also be legally prohibited from being in possession of any bike that he cannot prove he owns. Inspector Adam Dolling said: “We hope the police investigation and court sentencing provides the people of Bristol with reassurance that we continue to tackle the issue of bike thefts and will seek justice through the courts against offenders.”
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April, 2022
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bishopstonvoice
April, 2022
Shedding light in dark times STREETS were lit up by Bishopston Window Wanderland for the eighth year in a row. Households and local traders once again made displays in their windows for families and friends of all ages to enjoy over the weekend of March 5-7. Local organiser Sue Powell said: " It was lovely to see so many people participating in this much loved local event again this year. There were beautiful designs supporting the Ukraine and Willoughby Road collaborated on a theme of Doves for Peace. Other street collaborations included Julia Donaldson characters in Dugar Walk, ‘Opposites’ in Bedford Crescent, villainous penguins in Brent Road and Loch Ness coming to St Andrews. We also saw the return of some schools joining up with Gloucester Road traders to make and share their displays. “While we didn't have as many display makers as last years record numbers there's clearly still a lot of enthusiasm for Window Wanderland and it will be back next year.
“Photos can be found on the Bishopston Window Wanderland Facebook page, which you can message if you would like to help with organising future events. You can also email wwbishopston@gmail.com”
Got news? Email: news@bishopstonvoice.co.uk
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bishopstonvoice
8
April, 2022
n NEWS FROM OUR MP
Actions must match your generosity IT is hard to comprehend the scale of the tragedy since Russia invaded Ukraine a few weeks ago. I find it terrifying that Ukrainians were going about their normal lives until a few weeks ago. Now their country is being torn apart and millions of people are forced to leave their lives behind. I have been in communication with several Ukrainians living in Bristol who are trying to bring family members and friends from Ukraine but are struggling with bureaucratic problems. Their stories are desperately sad. I am doing everything I can to help them by asking for clarifications from the Home Office and Foreign Office and contacting the government on their behalf. Hundreds of you have written to me, asking me what I’m doing in Parliament to end this crisis. I’ve been working with Labour colleagues to push on three different fronts. Firstly, we’ve been demanding
that the government step up the UK’s humanitarian support, getting crucial supplies into the country and to cities like Kyiv while we still can and supporting neighbouring states, such as Poland, who are hosting most of the refugees. Secondly, we’re pushing to improve the help for refugees. Many Ukrainians want to come to the UK to join family or friends. The UK should be helping them. Labour has been pushing the government hard to create realistic routes for people to come here without impossible bureaucratic obstacles. As this crisis unfolded, the government insisted that there were routes for Ukrainians to come to the UK applying for existing visas, for example as fruit pickers. This was not good enough. After weeks of pressure, the government has now opened two routes for Ukrainians to come to the UK.
As I write, there are still a lot of unanswered questions about how people offering their homes can be matched with refugees. I’m watching closely to ensure they actually deliver, and help Ukrainians get to safety. I have put details of these schemes on my website. Please get in touch if you need help accessing these schemes. The third part of this is putting pressure on Putin to squeeze his powerful networks and force him to back down. In my weekly speeches in Parliament I have been pushing the government to impose the hardest possible sanctions against everyone linked to Putin and against the Russian government’s interests. I am pleased ministers are finally listening to what we have been saying for years, and cutting out the influence of corrupt Russian money in the UK. But sanctions and economic restrictions should be going
Thangam Debbonaire writes for the Voice further. And importantly, these sanctions should be properly enforced, something I raised in Parliament a few weeks ago. I am so proud of the way Bristolians have responded to this crisis. In your emails to me, many of you have asked how to donate money, goods or your homes. It is my job to push the government to mirror this generosity with real meaningful action. Contct me at thangam. debbonaire.mp@parliament.uk. Alternatively, call 0117 3790980 between 10am and 4pm MondayFriday.
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bishopstonvoice
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n ADVERTISING FEATURE
April, 2022
Recent case highlights the importance of residential landlords re-protecting deposits when tenants change bishopston voice in flat-shares23 bishopstonvoice
July, 2014
E: news@bishopstonvoice.co.uk
follow us on Twitter @bishopstonvoice
Advertising Feature
It is not uncommon, in cities such as Bristol, The tenant argued that on every changeover of for properties to be let to a group of individuals tenants, there was a surrender of the existing on a joint tenancy. A deposit is taken by the tenancy, and re-grant to the new mix of tenants. landlord at the outset and placed in the deposit This is the usual situation where the tenants live in scheme. As time goes on, the individuals move the property under a joint tenancy. on and the incoming tenant will often reimburse The court agreed with the tenant. The judge the outgoing tenant for their proportion of the explained that it is absurd for the landlord to not deposit. Sometimes the landlord may not even accept that there was not a new tenancy every be made aware of the change in personnel. It is time a new tenant came into the picture, because only when a dispute arises that these informal this would mean that the original tenant would arrangements can throw up legal aissues. to pay of rent tenancy of the Society of Trust willpossible be. However Will can bestill beforbound the distribution the under estate, the members wordedatodeposit provide that a gift ofagreement, and theeven estate though can then be and Estate Failure to properly protect within the landlord was Practitioners, the 10 % of value divided if the Willwas had being been tendered leading 30 days of receipt could result in the a fine of of at your leastestate accepting rentashe knew onprofessional body in time is given to aof charity in these A Deed of this field. We offer a free initial 1 times and as much as at3 that times the amount behalf made of a new groupterms. of tenants! charities of your choice. The Variation could therefore provide consultation for new clients. the deposit. The court is orobliged to rule against It was found that the landlord had failed to effect of this will be that the rate that 10 % of the estate is to pass For advice on administration the offending landlord, of and no exceptions are on protect deposit of or thecharities, new tenant. When Inheritance Tax payable the tothe a chosen charity of estates, trusts, wills, powers generally made for lack whole of knowledge of their deciding the level of fine estate is reduced from 40 making the estate as payable, a whole the landlord’s of attorney and all private client obligations. culpability was heldreduced to have been mitigated % to 36 %. eligible for the rate of issues, contact Shelley Faulkner, In same The Court’s decision in the case circumstances, of Sturgiss & it by his Inheritance genuinely Tax. (wrongly) held belief that the Pearce and the other Florence has been calculated that this Gupta v Boddy & Ors [2021] has highlighted the arrangements were soininformal as to notmembers require of the team on 0117 This change the law is in the tax bill can serve 9621205, importance of adhering reduction to the stringent rules the deposit tovery be protected, well as the fact that email probate@ clearly good newsas both to leave the estate, even after amdsolicitors.com or call in relating to residential tenancy deposits. the deposit was not for charities, anddissipated potentially by for the landlord. payment of the gift to charity, at 15 The Mall Clifton, or 100 some estates as well. However In this particular case, the was therefore had to pay back one times the Henleaze. landlord failing to keep track of the deposits, withtenant a value asoccupying high as if the The landlord Henleaze Road By Shelley the detail of the application can the property under a joint tenancy. A made. disputeThusthe deposit. gift had not been which as the case clarified, should be re-protected be complex. For example, the AMD Solicitors takes pride in the gift that can inthe some cases quite Although some leeway was given to the arose, and the tenants alleged landlord on every changeover of tenant in a joint tenancy. Faulkner, estate is divided into different sponsoring local, Bristol based literally for itself. failed to protect the deposit of pay a new, incoming landlord for his mistaken belief, this case offers a Ifyear you isneed advice on anything in this article ‘components’ depending on charities and this very solicitor tenant.with The landlord arguedEven thatwhere as hea did not not warning tothe Bristol’s many private whoto beorsupporting Will has any otherthe commercial property enquiries then how property will pass to landlords, pleased beenfrom prepared these terms,do not the receive a deposit the in incoming offer newciaries, separate tenancy benefi in order to agreements Bristol to branch of the contact Alzheimer’s please Helen Brewer on 0117 9735647 AMD personally Solicitors it may be possible to take tenant (as this was transferred informally between every incoming tenant. Landlords should Society, be warythe local calculate whether the 10 % test branch of thison helenbrewer@amdsolicitors. or by email advantage of this tax break. If been met. Taking specialist which works the incoming and outgoing tenants) he was of suchhas informal arrangements. There is a national risk thatcharity com AMD have offices at Henleaze, Clifton and the beneficiaries of the estate on theinimplications for improve quality of life of WHILE most of usno support under legal obligationagree, to protect the deposit. changeadvice of tenants quick succession will to result in the Shirehampton. it is possible to effectively your particular circumstances is people affected by dementia in
The gift that pays for itself
How leaving money to charity can save you Inheritance Tax
a number of charities in our amend the terms of a Will within therefore essential. ifetime, it is perhaps not two years of the date of death. A surprising that a smaller number AMD’s team of experienced ‘Deed of Variation’ can be drawn choose to remember a charity 100inHenleaze Road, Henleaze BS9 4JZprivate client solicitors and up which sets out the family heir Will. Clearly the priority for15 The Mall, Clifton BS8 4DS practitioners includes full members’ agreed arrangements most is to provide for a surviving spouse or children, or to ensure hat the family wealth can be passed on to benefit the next generation. However, government policy is clearly to encourage giving to charity, and a recent development in the law is ntended to promote gifts to charity being made by Will. This change may also, on occasion, serve to save Inheritance Tax, or even to create a gift which iterally pays for itself.
Reduced rate of Inheritance Tax
Where somebody dies after 6 April 2012 the rate of Inheritance Tax applied to the estate can be reduced from 40 % to 36 % (in other words by 10 %), provided hat at least 10 % of the estate passes to charity. Clearly it is not possible to determine in advance exactly what value the assets you leave by Will will have on your death or Inheritance Tax purposes, or what 10 % of the total value
Great Britain. For full details of our fundraising activities visit our website www.amdsolicitors.com. 139 Whiteladies Road, Clifton BS8 2PL Copyright AMDShirehampton Solicitors 2 Station Road, BS11 9TT
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Telephone our experts on 0117 9621205 If planning for inheritance tax is right for you our experienced specialist solicitors can help Telephone 0117 9621205 or e-mail probate@amdsolicitors.com Got news? Email: news@bishopstonvoice.co.uk
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bishopstonvoice
April, 2022
11
n NEWS
Final St Christopher's plans revealed THE final plans for an £85 million development at the former St Christopher’s School in Westbury Park have been unveiled – but they have failed to win over local opponents. St Christopher’s Property Company submitted its full planning application to Bristol City Council in March for what it calls a ‘net zero carbon later living community.’ Featuring two-storey cottages and four threeto six-storey buildings, the plans outline 122 retirement homes on the five-acre site. The developers say the extra-care homes include benefits to the residents such as ‘lifestyle amenities, care, and community activities, enabling older people to live independently for as long as possible.’ Along with these attractions the company says it will lay out new gardens, plant trees and provide ‘community food-growing spaces to boost sustainable living, biodiversity, and resident wellbeing.’ It also says the St Christopher’s Square development will be opened up to local people, who will be able to use a café, urban village hall, hydroptherapy pool and gym. Basil Demeroutis, of the developers, said: “As the first net zero carbon later living development for Bristol and one of1 the first in Abb Show Voice ad.qxp_Layout 14/10/2021
the UK, St Christopher's Square will pave the way for a new generation of ultra-sustainable, later living communities for older people across the country.” However, two residents’ groups are not entirely convinced. The Westbury Park Community Association (WPCA) said the plans are ‘still unacceptable, particularly on the grounds of overdevelopment and the scale, mass and height of the proposed new villas.’ Claims by the developers that they had responded to feedback following a community consultation including meetings with neighbours and drop-in events were rejected by St Christopher’s Action Network (SCAN). SCAN said in a statement: “Concerns have been ignored by developers wanting to build a vast luxury retirement complex on the former St Christopher's special school. “Despite the enormous volume of feedback given by residents across Westbury Park, developers are pushing ahead with insensitive and inappropriate plans that are totally out of keeping and out of scale with the Downs conservation area - including a six-storey block of flats.” St Christopher’s Property Company said 13:03 Page 1
it had made significant changes to the plans, including reducing heights of some of the buildings, moving the tallest element of the proposals to the centre of the site, and pulling other buildings away from the site boundary to minimise the impact of the development on existing neighbouring properties. Francesca Kay of SCAN said: “We are deeply disappointed. Our community made it clear we didn’t want such a huge and overwhelming scheme. Developers told us at Christmas they would consider reducing the number of units - in fact, they’ve now actually increased them. In addition, they have completely failed to address all the valid concerns about road safety and parking.” Another member of SCAN Mary Carroll said: “They started with 120 parking spaces, we raised concerns this may not be enough they then reduced it to 65.” There have been concerns over a potential increase in traffic and possibility of more parking in the surrounding streets with the WPCA criticising the lack of a travel plan. The public can comment on the plans on the city council planning portal. Search for the application number 22/01221/F or follow this link: https:// tinyurl.com/2p8k5c85
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April, 2022
n COMMUNITY NEWS CG2 (Cricket ground Community Group) THE annual pre-season residents meeting will be held at the cricket club on Thursday 7 April. Refreshments will be available from 6.15, the meeting will start at 6.30 and end by 7.30 or soon after. Gates on both sides of the ground will be open. Members of Gloucestershire County Cricket Club will be there to provide information about the coming season, update you on a few developments which should be of interest and to answer your questions. One of our local councillors will also be there to pick up any council related issues. If you cannot attend or still feel uncertain about being in a large group of people, please send your question to cg2bishopston@gmail. com and we will ask it on your behalf. There will be some chairs placed at the edges of the room if you prefer to keep some social distance. We look forward to seeing you there.
Peer support group opens BRISTOL based community mental health charity, Changes Bristol will be opening a free weekly peer support group, every Tuesday evening at Gloucestershire Cricket Club (recently renamed as the Seat Unique Stadium). The support group will be running from Tuesday April 5 from 7 - 9pm and is available for anyone over 18. Run by trained facilitators with lived experience of poor mental health, the group is open to anyone - there is no need for diagnosis or GP referral. Although run on a weekly basis, members are not obliged to attend each week and can just turn up, no need to let Changes Bristol know in advance. Louisa, service manager for Changes Bristol said: “Changes Bristol hold 18 weekly peer support groups where people can talk about their mental health in a safe, inclusive, non-judgemental space. Some people may not have the opportunity to talk about their wellbeing and our groups can be a powerful outlet.” Average group numbers are expected to be from eight to ten people per group and in joining on a regular basis can give members a safe community to speak about anything going on in their lives. Through ongoing attendance to support groups, members report improved confidence, resilience and self esteem. Changes Bristol will continue to run their other services, including virtual groups, telephone befriending and walk and talk for those who don’t feel ready to be in a room with others yet. If you have any questions or concerns, get in touch with our team - service@changesbristol.org.uk Full address for this peer support group is: Every Tuesday evening from 7pm - 9pm Seat Unique Stadium (Gloucestershire County Cricket Club) Nevil Road Bristol BS7 9EJ
John Wills House Outstanding care in Westbury-on-Trym You’ll notice a distinctive atmosphere of warmth and kindness at John Wills House, where our experienced staff are dedicated to providing the very best levels of personalised care. • General nursing care • Specialist dementia care • Short term / respite care • Comfortable, spacious rooms with en-suite facilities • Beautiful secure gardens • Wide range of meaningful activities and social events for residents to enjoy To find out more call our Admissions Team on 0117 919 4251 Westbury Fields, Westbury-on-Trym, Bristol BS10 6TU www.stmonicatrust.org.uk/jwh
Registered Charity 202151
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C ‘O QC uts ra tan ted din g’
bishopstonvoice
April, 2022
13
n NEWS
Hedge sparrows inspire author Leslie, 94 A CREATIVE resident has published a book of short stories for children after taking inspiration from events in his Redland care home garden. When a group of birds caught the eye of Leslie Rocker, 94, at Abbeyfield in Redland Road, a little research revealed the birds were dunnocks: also known as hedge – or tree – sparrows, which, unlike the more common, solitary house sparrow, live in families. Leslie said: “When I was a very young boy, I enjoyed reading about a family of rooks in a book called The Rookery and, after watching the dunnocks for some time, wondered if today’s children would enjoy similar stories.” Leslie has been a writer for most of his life, completing his first ‘novel’ at the age of nine. During his three years’ national service in the Merchant Navy,
theatres, where he worked with many distinguished actors. Whilst working at the Oxford Playhouse, Leslie acted alongside a little-known actor at the time, called Sean Connery. Now retired Leslie still enjoys writing as a hobby, but has previously self-published several books. His literary skills have even extended to sci-fi, nature and a murder mystery. While Leslie will continue to watch out for more adventures from his window, he hopes local children will be entertained by the short stories in The Dunnock Family. The book is available on Amazon and Kindle. he studied literature with the Seafarers Education Service and, on release, was able to find work as a journalist.
He later became a professional actor and director, both on tour and in London’s West End
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• Leslie is pictured at his writing desk with his book, The Dunnock Family
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April, 2022
n CHANDOS WINDOW WANDERLAND WINDOW Wanderland returned to the Chandos neighbourhood for its seventh year. Organisers said that although it was a quieter event than some previous years - especially compared with the bumper crop in 2021, when it seemed everyone was keen to do something different in lockdown - there were many lovely displays in gardens and windows during the weekend of February 26-27. Many styles and inspiration were on show and several strings of lights helped to create a festive atmosphere in the streets. Displays included Harry Potter, Minecraft, trees, birds and animals and other nature themes, landmarks - it just wouldn’t be Bristol without balloons, Banksy and Clifton Suspension Bridge! Video images of winter scenes, and a unique silhouette of a conductor with light display and music specially created for the event added to the variety on show. Even Boris & Carrie popped down in their campervan with associates Raab and Gove to party (again) & join in the fun.
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• Strict Infection Control measures approved by Public Health England are fully implemented • Care staff wear PPE at all times and we have ensured a high volume of supply • Skilled nurses are on site 24/7 and respiratory equipment is at hand • Safe face-to-face visits where possible
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April, 2022
bishopstonvoice
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Fantastic! Light show proves a glass act Did you spot them on Fairview Road? The end of Lansdown Road was overtaken by cats galore – there was a Cat-erpillar, Cat-alist, Cat-a-comb, Cat-o’nine tails, the tortoiseshell Cat and many more. Movingly, there were also tributes to Ukraine, expressing solidarity in these desperate times. It is hoped that Chandos Window Wanderland will return next year.
Easter Sculpture Festival at the University of Bristol Botanic Garden Friday 15th – Monday 18th April, 10am to 5pm
Spectacular garden sculptures, workshops and refreshments in a beautiful setting
For details visit:
www.bristol.ac.uk/botanic-garden Henleaze/bishopston.indd 1
Got news? Email: news@bishopstonvoice.co.uk
11/03/2022 09:58
bishopstonvoice
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n NEWS
April, 2022
Breaking down barriers to exercise A PROJECT that aims to break down barriers around exercise and encourage mothers to have fun getting active is celebrating some success stories. Bristol Girls Can has created a digital exhibition for its Small Steps campaign. It is on show on the Big Screen in Millennium Square and showcases the photos and stories of women featured in the campaign. The exhibition was launched on International Women's Day by cabinet Councillor Ellie King and some of the mothers who've been involved. Councillor King said “This exhibition and the Small Steps campaign challenge negative views about what women being active look like, and help to break down the barriers women face when it comes to exercise. “We hope it motivates other women and mums to make small steps to getting active.” The Small Steps campaign launched following research from Sport England which
found motherhood has a mostly negative impact on women’s activity levels. Small Steps aims to reach out to mums of young children in all areas of the city, inspiring, encouraging and supporting them to take small steps towards being more active. Carly, a mum of two, featured in the campaign, said: “I feel
really proud to be involved in this campaign. I hope my story inspires others to give jogging a go. I grew up in Hartcliffe and the fact my photo appears on the bus stop where I once took the bus to college, really made me smile. “Knowing my photo is in Millennium Square feels crazy! I never imagined it would be
shown in such a busy central location. It’s exciting and feels special. I am looking forward to visiting with my children. “The fact we are celebrating International Women's Day at the same time is amazing and inspiring for so many women and girls in Bristol, including my own daughters. All the ladies involved in this campaign should be so proud of themselves and what they have achieved. Small steps are all it takes!” The digital exhibition will remain on the Big Screen in Millennium Square until the end of March and will be shown daily between 7am and 11pm. The photos are also currently on display in the main atrium at Southmead Hospital and will be moving to permanent homes at Cossham Birth Centre and the Women’s and Children’s ward in Southmead Hospital in the coming months. For more information about the Bristol Girls Can project visit: www.bristolgirlscan.co.uk
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Join our team of journalists Part-time reporting and editing roles available on our Bishopston and Henleaze & Westbury Voice monthly papers. Possible opportunities on some of our other titles in Bristol and South Glos too.
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bishopstonvoice
April, 2022
17
n EDUCATION
Caring students put their plans into action A GROUP of Year 10 students from Fairfield High School have collected a minibus-load of essential items for Ukraine refugees. This latest initiative follows a string of matters close to the students’ hearts as they seek to make change, plus educate the school and wider community. Donations of food, toiletries, sanitary products, blankets, sleeping bags, toys, gloves and hats were gathered and a non-uniform day raised £650 in funds for the crisis. It was the latest initiative from the pro-active group, who call themselves AIM (All In Mind). Members identify issues they feel strongly about, before putting in place an action plan,often involving meeting members from the school’s leadership team. These have included International Women’s Day celebrations, implementing staff training to understand students’ experiences regarding gender, action related to the Palestine conflict, plus changes to the schoolwide uniform and behaviour policy. Amanda Bridgewater, Vice Principal at FHS, said: “The AIM group are a passionate, dynamic group of students driven by issues on a global, national and local level. They never cease to amaze me. In just under a week, they’ve generated a huge number of essential items identified on the British Red Cross website and suggesting a non-uniform day to raise money for Ukraine refugees. This, in conjunction with their other projects this year, speaks volumes for their bright futures ahead.”
The AIM group of Year 10 students at Fairfield High School believe in being proactive
Every Friday during term, QEH Juniors invites interested families to visit the school for a Tour at 10.30, followed by coffee with the Head, David Kendall.
Tours at 10.30 Summer Term tours commence from 13 May 2022. Contact us at 0117 930 3067 for more information.
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bishopstonvoice
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April, 2022
n EDUCATION
The Duke meets Trinity Academy students
Planting a tree with chairman Stephen Parsons
Headteacher Eirion Bailey addresses guests
New Youth Mayor Anika Mistry receives the plaque
IT was a red-letter day for staff, students and governors at Trinity Academy Bristol when the Duke of Kent officially opened their new school building in Lockleaze. His Royal Highness was accompanied on the visit by the Lord Lieutenant of Bristol Peaches Golding. The guests toured the school and met headteacher Eiron Bailey, staff, governors, student representatives and Stephen Parsons, chair of Cathedral Schools Trust, which runs the school. A formal ceremony was held to mark the opening on March 14 and to celebrate the school's journey so far. This included performances by pupils and a speech from headteacher Eiron Bailey. The Duke of Kent handed over an opening plaque to Year 9 student Anika Mistry, who had just been elected by students across the city as Bristol's Youth Mayor. Before leaving, the Duke planted a tree in commemoration of the opening. The rest of the day included a celebratory lunch, special
“Colston’s isn’t just about the grades - it’s about enabling me to be the best version of myself.” Discover more at our next Scan to meet Eleanor
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To advertise, contact Emma on 0117 9082121 or 07715 770448 or email emma@bishopstonvoice.co.uk.
bishopstonvoice
April, 2022
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Royal visitor opens £25m new school assembly and time for reflection. The school's mission is to provide a world class place of learning by developing the "Head", "Heart" and "Soul" and challenging students and staff to become the best versions of themselves. Celebrations were helped with a beautiful spring day, bunting and crown themed cupcakes! Trinity Academy opened with its first Year 7 students in temporary accommodation in 2019 and moved into the new building in September 2021. It is oversubscribed having taken 120 children in its first two years, 180 this year and 210 next September. The school is set to grow to a maximum of 1225 students, with a sixth form due to open in 2024. It is a music and performing arts school, with state-of-the-art facilities including a magnificent 570-seater concert hall, fully equipped with professional
Left to right: LL Cadet Miranda Geeson; Merlyn IpinsonFleming, chair of governors; HRH The Duke of Kent; Eiron Bailey, Trinity Academy Headteacher; Lord Lieutenant of Bristol, Peaches Golding; StephenParsons Chair of Cathedral Schools Trust sound and lighting systems and demountable staging; as well as a recital room, dance and drama studios and music practice rooms.
In addition, the school has a large indoor sports hall and all weather sports facilities on the site. The school’s aim is for the
Life changing Open Morning Friday 6 May 10.00am–12.00 noon Call Hollie Matthews on 0117 933 9885 Got news? Email: news@bishopstonvoice.co.uk
site to be used extensively by arts organisations, musical ensembles and sports clubs and become a venue of choice in north Bristol.
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April, 2022
bishopstonvoice
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n EDUCATION
Harry, 85, finds new running mates A UNIQUE partnership has seen Westbury Fields Retirement Village open its grounds to pupils from Bristol Free School for PE lessons. The St Monica Trust has offered use of its cricket field, home ground of Bishopston Cricket Club, for students aged 11 to 18 for football, rounders, American Football, ultimate frisbee and fitness sessions. With the cricket field only used for five months a year, St Monica Trust’s director of residential property and development, Rob Whetton saw an opportunity to provide the school with an outdoor space. Rob Whetton said: “It’s important for us to make the facilities within the Trust’s retirement villages available to as many people as possible and be good neighbours to organisations within the local community. “As well as providing an outdoor space where students can develop their sporting skills and improve their fitness, it’s an opportunity for our residents to interact with different age groups and share their own talents and enthusiasm.” Part of the Russell Education Trust, Bristol Free School in Westbury-on-Trym was opened in 2011 and also uses Greenway playing fields for PE lessons, which are a short walk from the school site. Headteacher, Susan King said “We are delighted for our students to have direct access to such fantastic sporting facilities. It is a real privilege and will be a game-changer for our school sports. This shows real community spirit and we are so proud to be partners in this.” One resident who is looking forward to seeing the pupils in action is Harry Clayton, 85. Harry was an accomplished amateur athlete, winning national cross country championships, running marathons and representing Great Britain at the World and European Veterans Athletics Championships. He has lived at Westbury Fields for just over a year and it was the cricket pitch and gym that caught his eye when he first visited the site. Harry said: “It’s a great location for me – I’ve got the cricket pitch to run around, plus all the local woods. When
Harry Clayton, 85, with Bristol Free School students at St Monica's Trust's sports field in Westbury-on-Trym residents saw me running around the cricket pitch they thought I was Superman. I’m also in the gym nearly every day on the cycling machine and doing weights for my quads, hamstrings and chest, plus doing sit ups and press ups at home.” “Age is no barrier when it comes to sport, but it’s so important to keep fit and active in whatever way you can. There’s a 96- year-old lady who’s out every day in the wind and rain walking around the cricket field. “I still love running as much as I did when I was a young boy and it’s great to see the children getting so much enjoyment out of sport. The cricket field plays a central part in daily life at Westbury Fields and I hope the pupils from Bristol Free School enjoy it as much as we do.” It is hoped that the relationship between Westbury Fields and Bristol Free School will lead to further opportunities for residents and pupils, including volunteering, work experience and apprenticeships. Rob said: “We’d also like to thank Bishopston Cricket Club for their cooperation in making this happen and for kindly offering the use of their clubhouse to Bristol Free
To advertise, contact Emma on 0117 9082121 or 07715 770448 or email emma@bishopstonvoice.co.uk.
bishopstonvoice
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April, 2022
n ADVERTISING FEATURE
Badminton School breaks ground to build ‘The Hub’ BADMINTON School were enormously excited to break ground this week as building of ‘The Hub’ got underway. A modern project located at the heart of the 15-acre campus, The Hub will provide an aspiring space for pupils to learn in new and innovative ways. It will also be a social space not only to learn together, but also for interacting as a school community and with the local community. The Hub has been carefully planned to support various study strategies and events with elements such as Study Booths, audio-visual technology, flexible seating configurations, catering facilities and a learning wall, all of which will enhance this vibrant new facility. The Hub will allow greater scope for self-directed learning, an emerging strategy since pupils developed resilience as independent learners during the
pandemic, and activities such as our Young Pioneers in the Junior School and Inspiring Evenings to fuel pupils’ personal ambitions and develop wider skills. Recent times have highlighted the need for strong personal skills, communication, teamwork, resilience and adaptability alongside propensity for lifelong learning, such as Badminton’s focus on metacognition and self-directed learning. Mrs Tear, Headmistress, spoke about her excitement of the new building: “Badminton School believes investing in the future of our campus and facilities demonstrates our passion, drive and absolute ambition to keep Badminton and its pupils at the very fore of our world-class provision and will help us lead our School in the realms of innovation and entrepreneurship.” Envoplan, the project managers, are hopeful that the
1
View from Access Road
project will be finished early in the Summer Term 2022. They remarked: “We are excited to continue our partnership working with Badminton School to develop truly transformative learning environments across the campus.
2
This latest development will provide an excellent environment for students to collaborate, innovate, and create their own pathways of learning for success – both in School and throughout their lives.”
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bishopstonvoice
April, 2022
23
n EDUCATION
Snapping up young photography talent PRIMARY school pupils in Bristol are taking part in bespoke photography workshops influenced by the Wildlife Photographer of the Year exhibition. For the first time, the team at Bristol Museums Learning are working with a group of third year photography students at the University of West England (UWE) to develop and deliver an innovative new workshop for primary school children in Bristol. The sessions will work in tandem with the Wildlife Photographer of the Year exhibition produced by the Natural History Museum, which is currently on display at M Shed. During March pupils from Two Mile Hill Primary and Ashton Vale Primary took part in the workshops, which start with a guided tour of the exhibition and learning how to use professional level camera equipment. Inspired by the exhibition and conversations around the photos they have seen, children will then take part in treasure hunt-style photography activities along the harbourside. Councillor Craig Cheney, Deputy Mayor of Bristol with responsibility for culture, said: “Working in partnership with university students to develop our museums learning programme for school children not only
A UWE student with some school pupils at the Wildlife Photographer of the Year exhibition means we can offer a wider range of topics but also means we can potentially inspire children to consider creative careers.” “This intergenerational sharing of skills and experience has been enabled by our partnership with UWE Bristol as our engagement sponsor for the Wildlife Photographer of the Year exhibition, and will benefit both university and primary school
students.” John House, senior lecturer in photography at the University of West of England, said: “The sessions create positive opportunities for all those involved, from introducing the school children to Bristol’s museums and gallery spaces to encouraging them to consider ideas around science, ecology and environmental concerns in a fun and creative way.” “This helps them to use photography and art to re-examine their surroundings, stimulate new ideas and make connections between different concepts. The workshops also provide UWE Bristol students with a supportive environment to get real world experience in delivering community-based activities as they look to their future careers.” Caroline Booth-Morris, development manager, Bristol culture & creative industries, said: “Bristol Museums is delighted that our partnership with UWE Bristol could develop into such an amazing, bespoke project that reflects the missions of both organisations. By working closely with supporters, Bristol Museums hopes to create meaningful partnerships that have a real impact on our communities, and benefit everyone involved”.
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Apply now for a place in September 2023 Tours available on most weekdays in term-time Call Hollie Matthews on 0117 933 9885 To advertise, contact Emma on 0117 9082121 or 07715 770448 or email emma@bishopstonvoice.co.uk.
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April, 2022
n NEWS
Harbour railway marks 150th anniversary THE Bristol Harbour Railway at M Shed marks its 150th anniversary this spring. The railway was formally opened on 11 March 1872 by Lady Mayoress, Mrs Elizabeth Hare and was used to transport goods arriving by ship including coal, esparto grass, wood and meat, as well as alcoholic beverages such as sherry and Guinness. A great deal of goods traffic was moved on the railway throughout its working life including vital war supplies during both world wars. The railway began at Temple Meads before proceeding through a tunnel under St Mary Redcliffe churchyard, over a steam-powered lifting bridge outside the Ostrich pub on Bathurst Basin and onto Princes Wharf. Later it was extended onto Wapping Wharf to where the SS Great Britain is
docked today. Ray Barnett, head of collections and archives at M Shed said: “After a century as a goods railway, Bristol Harbour Railway was handed over to the museum and has run as a heritage railway ever since. It’s an important part of the city’s history and has become a staple attraction on the harbourside. The staff at M Shed, along with a vital team of dedicated volunteers, work tirelessly to keep the railway running and care for the two steam locomotives, Henbury and Portbury. Trips on the railway were suspended during the pandemic so it’s particularly rewarding to mark this anniversary and invite visitors back to ride the railway again soon.” Train rides will resume at M Shed from the Easter holidays. A full list of dates will be available at bristolmuseums.org.uk from April.
Get ready to experience hundreds of sights, sounds and smells at Brunel’s SS Great Britain, with brand new scents to discover on board this Easter. Plan your voyage at ssgreatbritain.org/easter
To advertise, contact Emma on 0117 9082121 or 07715 770448 or email emma@bishopstonvoice.co.uk.
bishopstonvoice
April, 2022
n FROM YOUR COUNCILLORS In Redland this month...
Budget reductions to affect city services We reported last month that Green councillors were briefed on the council’s financial situation but not then involved in drafting the Mayor’s published budget. Our role was limited to proposing amendments in the February Budget meeting. Fi backed a proposal to try and retain full funding for the council’s twinning officer who links to the city’s various international twin communities and to refund public toilet provision across the city. Martin made a proposal to allocate strategic funds for a citywide capital pot to invest in improvements to neighbourhood streets and parks. Many proposed budget savings are uncertain and will be subject to consultation anyway. In the end four Green budget proposals were approved in the meeting but the Mayor then adjourned the council to consider what he wanted to do. He then did a deal with conservative councillors to vote through a changed budget at a second meeting instead of working with our group. Two of our proposals – on parking for small businesses and a new residents parking scheme in the city will be funded. He reversed his plan to charge disabled people asking for a parking bay to be
marked and made a u-turn on taking away designated funds for trades union activities but other changes that had been voted for will not be made, eg bringing back public toilets. He then found funds from next year’s contingencies’ budget to support some conservative proposals not originally voted for by the council like mending the Kingsweston Iron Bridge. Fi’s attempt to retain funding for the twinning officer was sadly rejected, destine being voted for by the majority of councillors. St Christophers Whilst the old St Christopher's site isn't in Redland any development there will affect Redland residents. We understand that over 120 houses and flats for older people are on the cards. Fi and Martin have met with locals who are worried about overdevelopment, highways and parking issues and the impact of some potentially very tall buildings on the site. We’re also liaising with the Westbury Park Community Association and councillors for the adjacent ward covering the site. Currently plans haven't been submitted but do let us know what you think. Redland Green The new planter by the playground has helped reduce the muddy patch by the entrance but it looks
as the problem is persisting. Whilst some local toddlers may be pleased with the puddles, it does pose a safety risk, so it some more work may be needed. Local volunteers have been terrifically busy recently, clearing rubbish, painting out graffiti, planting whips and installing bird boxes. Theres still space for some more boxes, so do get in touch with us if you would like to sponsor one! Support for refugees Martin and Green Party Co-leader Carla Denyer both attended a recent rally in solidarity with Ukraine. We also both spoke in a city council debate to back a motion offering support for refugees. We backed a Green amendment to the Labour proposal tabled - stressing that as a city of sanctuary we support all refugees from all wars and threats, and called on the council to support those fleeing conflicts and disasters, including climate change. The Green amendment was successful, adding calls on the Government to waive visa requirements for refugees trying to enter the UK from Ukraine and other conflict zones and lift the ban on asylum seekers working or receiving benefits. It also calls on Bristol Council to review it’s policies and practices to ensure we are helping asylum seekers and refugees to the maximum of our legal ability as well as asking One City partners to take measures to support asylum
27 seekers and refugees in Bristol. Contacts: Fi: E: Cllr.fi.hance@bristol.gov.uk Tel: 0117 353 4720 Martin: E: Cllr.martin.fodor@bristol. gov.uk Tel: 0788 473 6101 Find us on http://Facebook.com/ cllrmartin.fodor & /cllrfi.hance Limited funds for local projects Each year there’s a round of local funds being allocated to projects in the neighbourhood. While funds are very limited the process usually allows councillors from six wards across the area to spend some money raised from developers. As this area of six wards from Henbury to Cotham has had limited construction activity it’s not surprising we haven’t got much of a funding pot to spend – probably a little over Thirty thousand pounds by the November meeting when the awards get decided, although if the Filton Arena gets going there will be more. See www.bristol.gov. uk/people-communities/ funding-local-projects. The deadline for proposals to be reviewed is April 4th and we’d be happy to discuss ideas with local residents’ groups. These need to be physical projects installed.
n NEWS
Reading room set for revamp BRISTOL Central Library has been awarded £117,650 to transform its reading room. Residents, learners, students, and other library users in Bristol are set to benefit from significant improvements, including almost 100 modernised study spaces. Following a successful bid to create an event and exhibition space, and to modernise study spaces, Bristol Libraries service will receive £117,650 of Arts Council England funding to update the facilities of the reading room in the historic Grade I listed library on Deanery Road. The two floors of the reading room will be transformed to meet the needs of twentyfirst century library users and to welcome more community groups, city partners and external event organisers to use the space. Among the work to be carried out is the refurbishment of the listed study tables, adding energy efficient lighting and sockets for charging laptops and devices. The
adjacent marble exhibition corridor will also be upgraded to include secure display units, displays and touch display screens. Visitors to the library will be able to easily access items from the extensive local history collections on new interactive display screens, bringing Bristol’s story to life in a more accessible way than ever before. Councillor Ellie King, cabinet member with responsibility for libraries, said: “It is fantastic news that Bristol Libraries service has been successful in its bid for this improvement fund from the Department of Digital, Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS), administered by Arts Council England. “Bristol Central Library is an iconic building built in 1906 and its architecture is of national significance, but it does now need modernisation and sensitive transformation. Works are set to begin this spring and the entire project will take two years. The library will remain open throughout.
To advertise, contact Emma on 0117 9082121 or 07715 770448 or email emma@bishopstonvoice.co.uk.
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April, 2022
n NEWS FROM THE METRO MAYOR
Warm words won’t fix the cost-of-living crisis EVERY month it seems to be getting worse. Gas and electric bills are up and for everyone who uses heating oil, that’s off the scale too. It’s rocketed 116 per cent. I expect you, like me, are looking at your smart meter thinking it didn’t used to be like that a few months ago – and as for petrol… Every month we also hear the Chancellor commenting. He is normally saying how he understands that life is tough for working families and pensioners. Really? Because as March turns to April and the cost of living crisis bites, and everything from the price of a stamp goes up, the Government has chosen this moment to deliberately introduce a series of measures that will make this crisis much, much worse. They say April is the cruellest month, and this spring the Chancellor will again force up taxes, painfully whacking up National Insurance contributions. He’s chosen a tax on workers’ income, not any of the other options
like buying and selling property portfolios or stocks and shares. Yet it’s not all doom and gloom on the economic front. There are plenty of great job vacancies in the region – many with good pay and prospects. One project I was excited to launch recently was aimed at West of England jobseekers in our burgeoning hospitality sector. Jobs Connect was commissioned by the West of England Combined Authority that I lead, and built by Bath-based software company Cognisess. It will connect local people to jobs with top hospitality and tourism employers in the region. Jobs Connect is a bit like a dating agency for jobs. Job seekers and businesses upload their profiles and the website plays matchmaker. Individuals can do personality tests to figure out their compatibility, and there are top tips to make sure you put your best side forward
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writes for the Voice and stand out from the crowd. In the forthcoming months I hope to expand this scheme as well as launch more skills support and set up a good employers’ charter. We can’t change Government policy – well not until the next General Election – nor can we change food prices locally. But we can make sure more people can get better paid jobs and opportunities. Warm words won’t solve the cost-of-living crisis, but it’s vital we make sure people in our region have the skills and opportunities to weather this storm.
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April, 2022
bishopstonvoice
29
n MESSAGE FROM AVON & SOMERSET PCC
A new approach to tackling drug dealing I AM delighted to tell you about a significant new approach that sees Avon and Somerset Police team up with partners across the South West to combine their operational powers in tackling cross-border drugs supply activities, known as Operation Scorpion. Coinciding with National County Lines Intensification Week, the aim of this activity was to send a strong message to criminals that the South West is #NoPlaceForDrugs. The five regional police services – Avon and Somerset, Dorset, Devon and Cornwall, Gloucestershire and Wiltshire – alongside their respective PCCs, the British Transport Police, South West Regional Organised Crime Unit and Crimestoppers, set aside regional boundaries just as criminals engaging in drugs activity do, to harness
their collective power and disrupt the South West drugs market, dismantling drugs supply networks and arresting those who profit from them. The forces used a range of tactics, including enhanced surveillance of the road and transport networks, increased high-visibility patrols in areas of high demand, carrying out warrants at addresses used for drug dealing and welfare checks on vulnerable people. As a result, a number of successful results were achieved in our force area, including 64 arrests and 17 warrants executed. Five known county lines were disrupted and at least 41 weapon sweeps took place, along with 178 visits to vulnerable people’s addresses. The results from this collective action speak for themselves and highlights what can be achieved
when a borderless approach to drugs enforcement is taken. By coming together collectively in this way, we can send a strong message to criminals and those who exploit young and vulnerable people in Avon and Somerset that the South West is no place for drugs. In other news, I am delighted to announce the appointment of Claire Hiscott as my Deputy PCC to support me and my office in ensuring Avon and Somerset Police is an effective, efficient and legitimate police service. Claire was a councillor for eight years in the Horfield Ward area, a cabinet member for education and skills, and an area chairman for Bristol and Gloucestershire Conservatives. With the recent publication of my Police and Crime Plan, work is well underway in delivering against my priorities and
With Police and Crime Commissioner Mark Shelford objectives. I know Claire has a particular interest in violence against women and girls as well as disproportionality, and I look forward to her supporting me in these workstreams. Claire will also support me on engagement days, meeting with local people, partners and organisations to find out how we can support them and address their police and crime concerns.
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April, 2022
31
n NEWS
Homes deal set to secure boxing charity's future PROPOSALS that will enable affordable homes alongside the development of new and improved facilities at the Mill Youth Centre, home to the Empire Fighting Chance (EFC) charity have been approved. The charity is working with Sovereign Housing Association, a registered social housing provider, on a proposed development of 38 affordable homes on the site in Easton. The proposed development will fund works including an expanded gym, an indoor basketball court and car parking at the youth centre and will help to secure EFC’s long-term finances. The youth centre in Easton is owned by the council and leased to EFC for a ‘peppercorn’ rent under the Community Asset Transfer (CAT) scheme. The council will grant a new CAT lease at a notional rent for
the current gym site, as well as granting a new long-term lease of the basketball court site, also on a peppercorn rent. A CAT is where a property is leased to a community or voluntary organisation to manage, usually for less than market value. The council says that taking this innovative, collaborative approach at the Mill Youth Centre will help to meet its ambitious target to deliver 1,000 affordable homes a year from 2024. EFC is one of Bristol’s bestknown and most influential charities, and the proposed improvements will mean it can increase the services it can offer local people, including continued free use by Evergreen Primary School. It uses non-contact boxing, education and mentoring to support young people from deprived communities to make changes in their lives.
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32
n ADVERTISING FEATURE
Introducing Emily and her pelvic physiotherapist business I’M Emily Krelle, a mum of two energetic boys, a baker, a gardener, and specialist pelvic health physiotherapist living in Henleaze. I’ve over 10 years experience treating women with pelvic problems including prolapse, bladder and bowel issues and perineal scar pain in NHS hospitals in Bristol and Bath. I was sad to leave the NHS when it couldn’t provide me with the flexibility of work life I needed. Determined to continue helping women I’ve set up my own practice. Pelvic health problems are often unspoken but have a big impact on a woman’s life. I consider each woman holistically and use a range of treatment techniques, whether symptoms have just started or been present for years. Women are traditionally advised pelvic floor exercises but for some this can make symptoms worse and a different approach is needed. My clinic is held at The Bank Fitness which has recently opened on Henleaze high street. It is a lovely place to work from. The owners are striving for it to be a friendly and welcoming place that serves the whole community. If you would like to make an appointment, or find out more email emilykrellephysiotherapy@gmail.com
n ADVERTISING FEATURE
April, 2022
One a penny, two a penny … 8,000 hot cross buns at Joe’s EIGHT-THOUSAND hot cross buns are expected to be sold at a Gloucester Road bakery over the Easter weekend. Joe’s Bakery, which has gained quite a reputation for its award-winning breads and pastries, is already experiencing a high demand for its delicious buns. Martin, owner of the bakery, says that Maundy Thursday is always the shop’s busiest day over the whole Easter period, where over 3,000 buns are shifted. Visitors can also expect Easter biscuits and Easter bread - a rounded, fruited loaf, which is lightly spiced with hazelnuts on top. Joe’s Bakery will be open Good Friday (April 15th) but closed on Easter Monday. After a 2-year hiatus Mayfest is coming back to Gloucester Road on Saturday 7th May. Come and visit us for some delicious goodies and support your local traders. Pre order your cakes and rolls ready for your BBQs and Street Parties to celebrate the Queens Platinum Jubilee 2-5th June. For more information about Joe’s Bakery, visit:www.joesbakery.co.uk. Telephone: 0117 975 5551. Follow us on Instagram - joesbakery_glosrd Joe's Bakery, 240-242 Gloucester Road, Bristol, BS7 8NZ. The Bread Store, 45 Gloucester Road, Bristol BS7 8AD.
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bishopstonvoice
April, 2022
n LOCAL HISTORY
Bishopston boy: from Bishop Road Primary School to Hollywood superstar – a brief history of Cary Grant
S
TYLISH, masculine and immaculately turned out, Cary Grant was the epitome of the debonair male. Or so he became, because as a schoolboy in 1910 at Bishop Road Primary School in Bishopston a fellow classmate referred to him as a ‘scruffy little boy’ and one of his teachers complained he was always ‘making and noise and wouldn’t do his homework.’ Ironic when in the 1938 movie Bringing Up Baby he played the mild mannered and quietly spoken paleontologist David Huxley who was far from that scruffy Bristol schoolboy. But by then Archibald Alec Leach had honed his image as the man about town, or as his biographer Graham McCann noted the Bishopston boy had become the ‘epitome of masculine glamour’. When he entered the world of film Archibald wanted a new glamourous name and settled on Cary Grant as it sounded more American. He was to go on to star in a string of box office hits and classic movies with several rated by critics as some of the all-time greats. I give you Hitchcock’s thriller North By Northwest (1959), To Catch a Thief (1955), Notorious (1949), Suspicion (1941) and Bringing up Baby (1938). We all have our favourites, mine being Arsenic and Old Lace (1944) and Charade (1963) alongside Audrey Hepburn, which some critics called ‘the best Hitchcock film Hitchcock never made.’ But it all started in 1904 at 15 Hughenden Road, Horfield, where he was born, but his upbringing was less than ideal. Archibald was
Bishop Road Primary School
the only surviving son of Elsie Maria and Elias James Leach, a tailor’s presser, who had his wife committed into Glenside mental hospital while later telling young Archie she had died. When he discovered his mother was still alive years later, he returned to bring her out of hospital to support her final years at a house in Linden Road in Westbury Park where she lived until her death in 1973 aged 96. By then his alcoholic dad had married again and had created a new family leaving Archibald psychologically damaged by his early life. As a child his dad took him to the Bristol Hippodrome to see the annual pantomime and that was the moment his life changed. It’s fair to say he was transfixed. Star struck. He managed to get an evening job as a messenger and gofer at the theatre bunking off Fairfield Grammar School regularly to help out and as time went by, he was helping with the lighting and befriending The Penders who had an acrobatic comedy show. He was expelled from Fairfield and joined the Penders at the age of 15 and so his stage life began. After touring the UK the Penders travelled to America where Archibald’s skills widened into acting and in particular comedy. After they returned to England he stayed on forming his own comedy troupe and working as a paid escort for wealthy women making the most of his good looks and English accent. A series of jobs, roles and comedy shows followed as the now Cary Grant began to create the suave persona complete
Cary Grant in Horfield in the 1970s pictured by Alan Griffee with his mid-Atlantic accent that was to serve him so well. After appearing in a number of short films in New York he gained attention from Paramount in 1931 and was signed up with a salary of $450 a week – a fortune at the time. The rest as we know is history as he moved up the star system to eventually become one the best paid actors of all time and able to pick and choose roles including turning down the James Bond film Dr No in 1961 as he only wanted to do one movie as 007. His films were box office while he was equally famous off the screen for his private life marrying five times and fathering just one child Jennifer in 1966 with Dyan Cannon, who he claimed was his ‘best production.’ He returned to Bristol regularly to visit his mother and to see the old city from where he had sprung. Cary Grant died in 1986
aged 82 after taking ill at the Adler Theatre in Davenport, Iowa, USA, suffering a stroke. Despite being taken to hospital he died a few hours later. Since his death there have been festivals in Bristol to celebrate his life and films, books and documentaries and a statue in Bristol’s Millennium square. Whether he returned to Bishop Road to see his old school to see if his desk was still there, we’re not sure, but he was photographed outside his childhood home in Horfield by Alan Grifee and famously at the Clifton Gorge. We’ll leave the last word to Archibald Leach on his screen persona and famous good looks: “Everyone wants to be Cary Grant. Even I want to be Cary Grant. I pretended to be somebody I wanted to be until finally I became that person.” Harry Mottram
To advertise, contact Emma on 0117 9082121 or 07715 770448 or email emma@bishopstonvoice.co.uk.
bishopstonvoice
April, 2022
35
n SPORTS NEWS IN BRIEF Bristol City FC: The Robins are lying well down the Sky Bet Championship table. They have three home games this month with Peterborough on the 9th, Sheffield United on the 18th and Hull City on the 30th. Away fixtures are AFC Bournemouth on April the 2nd, Stoke City on the 15th April and Derby County on April 23rd. City’s last game of the season is also away with a game at Huddersfield Town on Saturday May 7th at 12.30pm. That brings the curtain down on a 'survival' season in the Championship with hopes once again turning to next season's campaign and how the squad may be strengthened in the summer. Bristol City Women Footballers: The club play at the Robins High Performance Centre at Failand. The first team play in the FA Women's Championship and currently lie in mid table with a chance of a late run at the leaders with home fixtures in April on the 3rd against Liverpool at 3pm, and London City Lionessess on the 24th. No away games in April but their last match is away with a long drive to Sunderland on Saturday, May 1st. Bristol Rovers FC: The Gas play their football in League Two at the Memorial Stadium off Gloucester Road and as we went to print their good run was continuing. Rovers have fixtures this month at home: Bradford City on April 2nd, Salford City on the 15th, and Forest Green Rovers on the 23rd, with their final match of the season also at home against Scunthorpe United on May 7th. Away days are Tranmere Rovers on the 9th, Port Vale on the18th and Rochdale on the 30th. Bristol Rugby men: The Bristol Bears play in the Gallagher Premiership and have had mixed results but despite their position there is no relegation this year. This month away days are Northampton
Saints on April 2nd and then Sale on the 9th in the Heineken Champions Cup with another away game in the premiership on April 30th against Leicester. They are at Ashton Gate for home games against Sale in the cup on the 14th and Gloucester on April 22nd in the premiership. Bristol Rugby women: The team play at The Bears High Performance Centre, Beggar Bush Lane, Bristol, BS8 3TF. For details visit https:// www.bristolbearsrugby.com/teams/ bristol-bears-women/ Fixtures this month are on the 2nd when they are at home against DMP Durham sharks in the Allianz Cup with a home game on May 7th against Harlequins and their final match is away to Exeter on May 14th. Hockey: Firebrands Hockey Club is the home of hockey in Bristol. Since 1947 the club has not only been hugely successful on a national and local level with a number of teams including the indoor women's team The Vixens. The Vixens also have an outdoor team who play on a Sunday. The First Team male Firebrands L1 face off against Cardiff and Met A on April 10th at home with a home game against Truro on the 24th and an away game against Bath on the 17th. Broad Plain Rugby Club: The first team play in the Gloucester Second Division South. The second XV play in the Wadworth 6X Bristol & District Second Division. The teams train on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 7pm. New players always welcome - and remember: Up The Plain! The 1st XV play Old Bristolians at home on the 2nd and are away to Old Colstonians on the 9th of April. Follow them on Facebook - pride of Bedminster. Rugby in Bristol: there are several long established clubs in the city including Dings Crusaders, Old Redcliffians and North Bristol. To
find a club to play for visit https:// www.englandrugby.com/findrugby. American Football: The Bristol Aztecs American Football team are based in Filton. The Aztecs welcome new players for their senior and junior teams. For details see their Facebook page or visit www.sgscol.ac.uk/americanfootball Gloucestershire Cricket men: The team's pre-season run ends on April 2nd with a home game against Exeter University. The season proper begins with four-day games in the County Championship on April 7th away at Northampton. Their first home game is on April 14th with a game against Yorkshire. Gloucestershire Cricket women: the team play in the ECB Women's 50 over County Cup and T20 competitions. For more on the team visit https://www.facebook. com/Gloswomenscrick Cricket in Bristol: Other teams in the city include Bishopston CC, Stoke Bishop CC, Knowle CC and Brislington CC. To find a club to play for locally see https://www.
ecb.co.uk/play/find-a-club/ Tennis: With the success of Emma Raducanu in the USA Open there is an expectation the sport will get a boost.. Bristol born Katie Swan is currently the most high profile tennis professional the city has produced while those with long memories will recall Jo Durie who in 1983 reached the semifinals of the French Open. Ice Hockey: The Bristol Pitbulls take on Oxford at the Planet Ice Rink at Cribbs Causeway on April 2 in the NIHL South Division 1 on April 2. They are at home again on April 9 when they play Milton Keynes. Away days include Invicta on April 3, and Streatham on April 10. Bristol Honda Pitbulls netminder, Tyler Perre, is bringing his season to a premature end so that he can begin treatment after receiving the news that his cancerous tumours have returned. As a result, the game against the Solent Devils, where he won Man of the Match, will be his last of the 2021-22 campaign. Harry Mottram
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bishopstonvoice
36
April, 2022
n BOOKS Street Without a Name by Kapka Kassabova Review by Bob Deacon of Bishopston Library THE author, Kapka Kassabova was born in 1973, spending her childhood and teenage years in the communist state of Bulgaria. In 1990, at the age of 16, she emigrated with her parents to New Zealand following the collapse of the Berlin Wall and the disintegration of the Soviet bloc. In 2006, at the age of 32 she returned to the country of her birth. The first part of the book finds Kapka taking us back to her childhood in Bulgaria, experiencing the harsh reality of living in a communist society, contrasting with the utopian socialist state proclaimed by its leaders. In 1979, Kapka moves with her sister and her parents into a two room flat which is part of a large concrete housing development known as Youth 3 in a street without a name,
hence the title of the book. The flat is infested with giant cockroaches, who prove resistant to the poisonous sprays used against them. Kapka goes to school in a class of 32 kids who were alphabetically numbered. Kapka is known as number 16 and addressed as such by her teacher. The author’s first encounter with the outside world is a family trip to Macedonia in neighbouring Yugoslavia. Kapka discovers the
joys of chocolates with hazlenuts, peaches without down and encounters bananas for the first time. Two years later, the family visit East Berlin, where everything appears exciting and exotic, even the Wall, because on the other side was the promised land of the West. Meanwhile back in drab Bulgaria, Kapka visits her paternal grandparents in the provincial town of Pavilenki whose only shop sells extra large cotton underpants, brown pantyhose for women with vein problems and industrial proletarian bras. The author describes public toilets as ante chambers of hell, with the hole in the floor used only in dire emergencies. The second part of the book fast forwards the reader to 2006 with Kapka embarking on an tour of Bulgaria revisiting the towns and villages of her childhood but through the lens of a 32 year old tourist. The author introduces us to Sandanski, the birthplace of Spartacus,and the ski resort of Bansko, which is described as symptomatic of the ugly, brave new Bulgaria. We are also taken to Karlovo, the birthplace of the
national hero, Vassil Levski and the Rose Valley where the majority of the worlds rose oil is extracted. Street Without A Name is part memoir and part travelogue providing us with a highly readable, honest, unflinching and funny account of life in Bulgaria both during and after the Soviet era. For this book and many more, please visit us at Bishopston Library, 100a Gloucester Road. Opening Hours Monday (1pm-7pm) Tuesday (closed) Wednesday (11am-5pm) Thursday (11am-5pm) Friday (11am-5pm) Saturday (11am-5pm) Sunday (closed)
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bishopstonvoice
April, 2022
37
n FRIENDS OF BISHOPSTON LIBRARY What’s in a street name? How history and people inform where we live FRIENDS of Bishopston Library (FOBL) are delighted to be back in the library after an enforced break and would like to invite you to our AGM and first event to be held on Thursday 28 April. Doors open at 7pm, AGM starts at 7.15. We expect the AGM to last no longer than 20 minutes. After the AGM, we are delighted to welcome back Peter Malpass, who is going to talk about ‘Bishop Monk and the Horfield Question’, research which was published in 2020. Bishop Monk, John Shadwell and a cast of others were engaged in tortuous battles to purchase and develop land in the area and have left their mark in more ways than one. Following Peter’s talk, we will invite members of the audience to share stories about the origin of
their own street name. If you would like to contribute, please email us at friends@bishopstonlibrary.org. uk ; or just chip in on the evening. As a welcome back, we are not charging for this event, but we still need you to book on our website www.bishopstonlibrary.org.uk so that we know numbers. Light refreshments will be available for a small cost during the evening, but cash only please. We know that some people may still feel a little wary about venturing out. We will ensure that
there are some chairs spaced a little away from the main group, and please do wear a mask if that is more comfortable for you. There will also be hand sanitiser available. A plea for help We are keen to see some new faces on our planning group. FOBL organises and supports events which encourage people to come together to learn, meet others and enjoy themselves. At the same time, we raise funds to
purchase items to enhance the library. As with many volunteer groups however, the group has suffered from the ‘Covid effect’ and is losing some of its longstanding members. New members are essential to ensure that the group can continue after the AGM. There are lots of roles for volunteers, such as maintaining the website, organising events (with plenty of help), managing social media, keeping simple accounts, publicising activities and helping to set up and run an event. Not all these roles need attendance at group meetings. If you are interested and would like to know more, please contact us at friends@bishopstonlibrary.org. uk, or leave your name and contact details in the library. We look forward to welcoming you back.
SEND US YOUR GROUP'S REPORT: WWW.BISHOPSTONVOICE.CO.UK *Free Bristol Valuation Day* Tuesday 10th May
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Consigned at one of our regular Bristol Valuation Days
Next Free Jewellery Valuation Day with Gemologist John Kelly Tuesday 5th April at the salerooms
To advertise, contact Emma on 0117 9082121 or 07715 770448 or email emma@bishopstonvoice.co.uk.
38
bishopstonvoice
April, 2022
n VINEYARD NEWS with INGRID BATES
Getting set for the growing season SUMMER feels like it’s suddenly approaching at a rapid rate so we’re busy getting lots of things finished before the vines start growing. To be honest, a lot of the jobs we’re doing can still be done after the vines have started growing but we always get a sense of having to hurry at this time of year! Bud burst acts as a kind of natural deadline. We’re pulling the last few rows of our old Pinot noir vines out to make way for our new baby hybrid vines and we’re hand clearing weeds away from young vines to give them the best start to the growing season. On the wine front, we’ve ordered our new boxes and labels and our new still wines are about to be bottled. By the time this goes to print we’ll be tantalisingly close to releasing our new still wines. Ideally we’d leave the newly bottled wine for a few months to acclimatise before starting to sell it but we’ve completely sold out of last year[s wine and have restaurants and shops already asking where the new one is. Such is the predicament of the small wine producer. We can’t wait to share the new wines with you all and show you our special crowdfunder labels that were funded by local businesses and individuals. Many people have been asking how our land hunt is going since our crowdfunder ended last November. The answer is that we’re working very hard to secure the right piece of land and hope to have something in place by the end of the year – watch this space! hello@dunleavyvineyards.co.uk www.dunleavyvineyards.co.uk @DYvineyards (twitter) dunleavy vineyards (facebook & instagram)
Volunteer Peter with the vine popper - the device we use for removing our old Pinot noir vines
Join us on the bowling green this summer!
Green opens mid-April!
Give the game a try at our fun Open Day, Saturday, May 21st. For all ages. Just bring flat soled shoes or trainers
Find out more Fantastic health benefits www.bsabowls.co.uk Meet new friends and have fun 0117 942 1103 Loads of social activities info@bsabowls.co.uk Great for the competitive-minded
Bristol St Andrews Bowling Club, Derby Road, Bristol, BS7 9AQ To advertise, contact Emma on 0117 9082121 or 07715 770448 or email emma@bishopstonvoice.co.uk.
bishopstonvoice
April, 2022
39
n NATURE WATCH With Dawn Lawrence We are now well into spring and the dawn chorus rings out in our gardens Song thrush by just as it does in any woodland; if you’re Alan Piper lucky, you will hear the contribution made by the song thrush. “Hark… That’s the wise thrush; he sings each song twice over, lest you should think he never could recapture the first fine careless rapture!” Robert Browning (in Home Thoughts, From Abroad) rightly notes the joyous tone of the song thrush. The bird’s scientific name also references his beautiful carolling – Turdus (yes, well… not that bit, meaning “thrush” in Latin) philomelos (that bit!) honey-lover - hence the sweetness of his voice. The nightingale was also believed to drink honey for the same reason and is arguably of an even greater reputation as a songbird, but I can assure you that the song thrush gives him a run for his money. composing as he goes, perhaps arranging his The song consists of repeated phrases, verses according to the weather, or the state often with a very human intonation, which my of his stomach, though others say simply “at dad, following country lore, used to render as random” (a bit harsh). But even sober tomes “did he do it, did he do it, who can tell, who on the finer points of ornithology remark on can tell?” In fact the bird can have a stock of the way the song thrush sings “with gusto” as a around 100 phrases (I have that on at least way of distinguishing his voice from the more two good authorities) that he will scatter and “mellow and ethereal” tones of the mistle thrush (and blackbird). repeat through his song. I like to think of him
The sexes are alike in appearance with warm brown back and wings, a brightly speckled breast, and yellowbuff tones around the flanks and under the wings. They strut around the garden with a cocky walk, ready to pounce on a worm, but rarely stray far from cover. He often sings from cover too, from a dense bush or hedge, unlike the mistle thrush which usually sings from the highest treetop. Well hidden, the song thrushes build a nest of twigs and straws with a cupped interior neatly plastered with mud. Time for a riddle: why is a song thrush like a blacksmith? This may sound reminiscent of “why is a raven like a writing desk?” with which the Mad Hatter so flummoxed Alice, but it does have an actual answer (though I read recently that Carroll provided a witty solution to his riddle in later editions – search it out, it made me laugh!) Well, the song thrush, like a blacksmith, uses an anvil. Snails are amongst their favourite foods (song thrushes I mean, I don’t know about blacksmiths) and a well-shaped stone will be used to break the shells so that the thrush can get at the soft centre. These anvil stones often acquire a litter of shells around them through frequent use.
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bishopstonvoice
40
April, 2022
n SPORT
County cricket ground gets a new name GLOUCESTERSHIRE Cricket's home ground has been renamed the Seat Unique Stadium in a four-year deal. The new name for the Bristol County Ground comes at the start of the 2022 domestic cricket season. Seat Unique is a tech ticketing marketplace where fans can buy official hospitality packages and tickets to live sports, music and culture events. It first partnered with The Shire in early 2021 when it became the club’s official hospitality and premium ticketing partner. Seat Unique, which launched in 2019, has developed innovative software to support the digital transformation of online hospitality sales. Welsh Rugby and British & Irish Lions captain, Sam Warburton OBE, is its brand ambassador. GCCC says the deal with Seat Unique marks a significant moment for the club,; building on the appointments of Dale Benkenstein as head coach, Steve Snell as performance director
Will Brown , GCCC CEO, and Philipa Hicks of Seat Unique and the signing of quality overseas players such as Marcus Harris, Naseem Shah and Zafar Gohar during the off-season. Joe Kaniecki, head of partnerships at Gloucestershire Cricket, said: “We are absolutely delighted to be strengthening our relationship with Seat Unique for the next four years. “We’re passionate about not only ensuring the Seat Unique Stadium continues to grow as a domestic and international
cricket arena, but also as a live entertainment venue to the benefit of our local communities. As a premium ticketing marketplace, Seat Unique will allow us to take the home of Gloucestershire Cricket to the next level in terms of spectator experience and offering.” The new name, the Seat Unique Stadium, now adorns the front of the Bristol Pavilion and can be seen at various other locations and at entrances.
The Seat Unique Stadium will play host to seven home Vitality Blast T20 matches for Gloucestershire in 2022, and will welcome the best teams and players the English game has to offer during the County Championships Division One campaign. The Shire’s home stadium will also host five international matches during the summer, including England men’s and women’s teams, further consolidating the stadium as a familiar venue for international cricket. CEO and founder of Seat Unique, Robin Sherry, said: “It is a huge honour to have elevated our partnership with Gloucestershire Cricket with this four-year commitment to stadium naming rights. This will ensure that we continue to strengthen our relationship between the club and the local community. "It is a privilege to have this exciting opportunity to build a valuable affinity with The Shire’s loyal fans. "
To advertise, contact Emma on 0117 9082121 or 07715 770448 or email emma@bishopstonvoice.co.uk.
bishopstonvoice
April, 2022
41
n WHAT'S ON 12 April
n THE ARTS SOCIETY BRISTOL lecture on "The Art of the Cartoonist" is at 8pm at Redmaids' High BS9 3AW and by internet. We welcome new members and guests. For more information on our lectures, given by specialists in their own field, and our other activities visit our website www. theartssociety-bristol.org.uk
April 28,29,30
n ST ALBAN'S PLAYERS present The Cemetery Club, a comedy by Ivan Menchell at 7.30pm on the 28th, 29th & 30th April at St Alban’s Church Hall, Bayswater Ave, Bristol BS6 7NU. Tickets £12 www.stalbansplayers. co.uk/boxoffice tel. 07753 870 236
Monday
n PLAY BOWLS AT CANFORD PARK in a friendly, social atmosphere. Qualified coaches and equipment provided. Contact: Les on 07305695579
Tuesday
THE ARTS SOCIETY BRISTOL LECTURE on 8 March is on "The Women Who Saved the Birds" and is expected to be delivered at 8pm at Redmaids' High BS9 3AW and by internet. For more information and updates visit www.theartssocietybristol.org.uk BRISTOL HARMONY WEST GALLERY CHOIR AND BAND are now rehearsing regularly again. We are looking for new members SATB as well as string, reed and wind instrumentalists. We sing and play lively church and village music from the 18th century. We meet at St Edyth’s Church Hall in Sea Mills on the 1st and 3rd Tuesday of each month. No auditions but ability to
read music is helpful. Ring Fritjof on 0117 924 3440 or see www. bristolharmony.wordpress.com. Please contact before attending so we can have music ready.
Thursday
n BISHOP ROAD COMMUNITY CHOIR are meeting online Thursday evenings via Zoom at 8pm for an hour. Contact us via bishoproad choir@gmail.com for a link. n ENJOY SCOTTISH DANCING at St. Monica’s Oatley Hall, Cote Lane, BS9 3UN on Thursdays 7.30 – 10.00 p.m. £6.00 per session. Have fun, make friends, keep fit. Phone Trish 0788 052 8925/www. rscdsbristol.info
n BRISTOL MALE VOICE CHOIR are rehearsing for our 2022 concerts and warmly invite you to join us; the ability to read music is helpful but not essential as we regularly rehearse our wide-ranging repertoire, from classical to pop, traditional male voice favourites to musicals and gospel songs in various languages. We meet every Thursday at 7.00pm in St Andrew's Methodist Church, Elm Park, Filton, BS34 7PS. For further information see our website, www.bristolmvc.org. uk, or Facebook, or phone 07587 143 220. Our next concert is on March 19, 2022, in Christ the King Church, Bradley Stoke, BS32 8EE For details phone the above number.
Various days
n WESTBURY PARK SPIRITUALIST CHURCH (off Kellaway Ave), Cairns Rd BS6 7TH Tel: 01179 771629 Sunday services 11am and 6.30pm Wednesday Spiritual Healing from 2pm until 3.30pm Thursday development group 7.15 for 7.30 start Healing circle every fortnight on a Tuesday n GCCC LOCAL RESIDENTS MEETING After an enforced break last year, the pre-season residents meeting will be taking place on Thursday 7 April at the cricket ground. Refreshments from 6.15, for a 6.30 start. As usual, representatives from the Club and CG2 will be there to answer questions and update you on the forthcoming season. n BRISTOL BACH CHOIR CONCERT, Saturday March 19, 7.30pm, St Mary Redcliffe, Bristol, BS1 6NL. The choir presents Maurice Duruflé’s Requiem and Cristobal de Morales's Missa Pro Defunctis. The organist is Nigel Nash and the conductor is Christopher Finch. Tickets: £22, £14 (unreserved), students and under 18s, £5. Box Office 0117 214 0721 n BRISTOL CHAMBER CHOIR CONCERT, Sunday April 3, 2pm, Christ Church, Broad Street, Bristol, BS1 2EJ. Drop, Drop Slow Tear Music for Lent and Holy Week. Programme will include Tallis's Lamentations of Jeremiah, Allegri's Miserere and music by Purcell, Vaughan Williams, Walton and others. Tickets are £10 (children and students free) available from the choir's website), from Eventbrite or at the door
or from Opus 13, 20-21 Lower Park Row, Bristol, BS1 BN www. bristolchamberchoir.org.uk or ring 07342 954249 n WOMEN'S BOOK GROUP looking for new members. We meet every two months in the Bishopston area and read a wide range of fiction and non fiction. Contact ksnowdon29@gmail.com for further information
SNIFF OUT AN EASTER TREAT ON BOARD SS GREAT BRITAIN Brunel's SS Great Britain, the 'world's smelliest museum', already includes hundreds of sights, sounds and smells. However, this Easter, they're inviting visitors to rate the smells and help choose new ones! Experience the good, the bad and the ugly scents which wafted through the 19th century ship. Some of the new smells under consideration include the rich scents of dark chocolate and brandy, the homely aroma of roast beef, and the pong of boiled cabbage. Be sure to follow Brunel's SS Great Britain on social media for a look behind-the-scenes as they prepare for the holidays and book your tickets on their website to join in the fun. Find out more and book your tickets at ssgreatbritain. org/easter
SHARE YOUR UPCOMING EVENTS: WWW.BISHOPSTONVOICE.CO.UK
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To advertise, contact Emma on 0117 9082121 or 07715 770448 or email emma@bishopstonvoice.co.uk.
Life, built in Coming soon… NORTH BRISTOL, BS7
Coming soon …
Coming soon… NORTH BRISTOL, BS7
CGI Images are indicative of the scheme and are subject to change Image courtesy of AHMM Architects.
Modular homes
Computer generatedin image, illustration only. A brand-new neighbourhood theforheart ofpurposes Lockleaze from Legal & General Modular Homes. Find everything you need to call home and much more.
Bonnington Walk, BS7 1, 2 & 3 bedroom homes that bring city living within reach. Call: 0117 946 9838 Mail: newhomes@oceanhome.co.uk Search: www.lifebuiltin.co.uk/places/bonnington
Image courtesy of AHMM Architects. Computer generated image, for illustration purposes only.
HSJ016_L&NH_Bonnignton_ComingSoon_BPL_275x335mm_Oct21_AW.indd 1
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bishopstonvoice
April, 2022
43
n PROPERTY OF THE MONTH St. Andrews - £835,000
Belmont Road - 4 bed Semi-detached house A generous and impressive semi detached home located between St Andrews Park and Gloucester Road. This impressive period home is just one of only four houses of this style on this sought-after road. The arched entrance and deep round bay windows add to the external appeal of this home. The location is fantastic as you are just a short walk to the vibrant Gloucester Road with its range of independent shops, bars, cafes and restaurants and the open green space of St Andrews Park. Both the local primary and secondary schools are within walking distance. The entrance hall has a feeling of grandeur thanks to the arched entrance and decorative plasterwork on the ceiling and above the doors. The spacious lounge feels very light thanks to the five double glazed sash windows inset into the bay, and there is a working fireplace adding to the characterful feel. The ceiling has coving plus additional ornate finishings. The second reception room has an equally spacious feel and opens via a set of bi folding doors to the side return extension. This modern addition connects to the kitchen and out into the rear garden. The kitchen/family room is at the rear of the house and again connects to the rear garden via a set of french doors. This is a bright and social space with room for a dining table and sofa. A handy WC and plenty of under stair storage complete this level.. On the first floor, there are four bedrooms, a family bathroom and an additional shower room. The bedroom at the front has the same large bay with double glazed sash windows as the lounge downstairs. Bedrooms two and three are good sized double bedrooms, both of which overlook the back garden. Bedroom four is currently being used as an office/spare bedroom but is a decent fourth bedroom. The private rear garden has two areas, the first is an ample patio flowing directly off of the back of the property. A couple of steps lead from here up to another level space currently housing the obligatory trampoline! The entire garden is walled giving a private feel, and accessed additionally along the side of the house.
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To advertise, contact Emma on 0117 9082121 or 07715 770448 or email emma@bishopstonvoice.co.uk.
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44
April, 2022
n HOME CARE & FUNDING
Tom Jackson, Commercial Lead
Improve your Energy Performance Certificate to help slash your energy costs We’re all feeling the squeeze on our finances as the rate of inflation and living costs go up and energy prices continue to soar. Ofcom’s increase to the energy price cap will double household energy bills and push some households into fuel poverty. Now is the time to take action to improve our homes to save money. At Lendology CIC, we’re here to support homeowners to improve their homes. If you’re a homeowner, you’ll know that the need to maintain your home doesn’t go away and can often be costly. But don’t worry, you don’t need to have savings to be able to make these essential repairs. We work in partnership with Bristol City Council to provide accessible funds to a range of homeowners including those who are selfemployed, in receipt of benefits, or retired. Since 2005, we’ve lent over £3 million to homeowners across the city to fund home repairs and improvements and our holistic and flexible approach means that people make our decisions, not credit scores. A recent Bristol homeowner who benefited from the loan scheme said “Go ahead and apply! Lendology really takes care of their customers with reasonable lending rates that gives you peace of mind.” By improving your home, you can look to
We Care & Repair
5 Hide Market, Waterloo Road, Bristol BS2 0BH 0300 323 0700 www.wecr.org.uk info@wecr.org.uk Ellie Lister Service Delivery Manager
Lendology
www.lendology.org.uk, loans@lendology.org.uk, and 01823 461099
reduce your carbon emissions and potentially save money on your energy bills. You can find out how efficient your home is rated by looking at the energy performance certificate most commonly known as an EPC. The EPC is based on a home inspection and measures your property’s C02 emissions to calculate how efficient it is. The scale goes from A-G, with A being the most efficient and G the least. One way to lower your bills and increase your energy rating is to ensure your home is well insulated or install new low-carbon technologies. Your EPC will include recommendations to increase your
energy rating and lower your bills. For energy advice, please contact local energy advice organisations such as the Centre for Sustainable Energy. To apply for a home improvement loan, call Lendology on 01823 461099, email loans@ lendology.org.uk or visit www.lendology.org. uk For more information on the services provided by We Care Home Improvements, call 0300 323 0700 or visit www.wecr.org.uk * For qualifying works as determined by Bristol City Council, you may be entitled to a a £1,000 loan reduction for works costing £2,000 or over, or 50% contribution for works under £2,000. This is a financial promotion approved by Lendology CIC. Lendology CIC is a trading name of Wessex Resolutions C.I.C.: a community interest company limited by guarantee, registered in England, company number 4512225. Registered address: Heatherton Park Studios, Bradford on Tone, Taunton TA4 1EU. Wessex Resolutions C.I.C is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (675263) for credit regulated activities.
Up to
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Did you know Bristol City Council fund a loan scheme for homeowners? *
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Working in partnership with We Care Home Improvements and Lendology CIC, the partnership takes the stress out of funding and finding contractors for home repairs, improvements or adaptations. If you are a homeowner, of any age, and need to make essential repairs to your home, call us today for more information. Works covered under the scheme include roof repair, electrical and plumbing work, damp and structural remedies, heating installations or replacement, amongst other works.
For an informal chat about the loan scheme and eligibility, call Lendology on 01823 461099, email loans@lendology.org.uk or visit www.lendology.org.uk
For more information on the services provided by We Care Home Improvements, call 0300 323 0700 or visit www.wecr.org.uk
*Subject to eligibility. **A maximum reduction of £1,000 from an approved loan over £2,000. For loans £2,000 or less, the reduction will be 50% of the loan value. Budget is limited and will be awarded on a first come, first served basis. Typical Example (4% fixed interest rate, Typical 4.2% APR). Borrow £5,000 over 60 months. £92.08 monthly repayments. Total amount repayable = £5,544.96, including £20 fee for registering the Title Restriction. Missing payments could affect your credit rating and ability to obtain credit in the future. Loans are subject to status and are typically protected by a Title Restriction. This means that you may not be able to sell your home without our permission unless the loan is fully repaid. This is a financial promotion approved by Lendology CIC. Lendology CIC is a trading name of Wessex Resolutions C.I.C.: a community interest company limited by guarantee, registered in England, company number 4512225. Registered address: Heatherton Park Studios, Bradford on Tone, Taunton TA4 1EU. Wessex Resolutions C.I.C is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (675263) for credit regulated activities.
To advertise, contact Emma on 0117 9082121 or 07715 770448 or email emma@bishopstonvoice.co.uk.
April, 2022
bishopstonvoice
45
n NEWS
Students play football with the mayor THE Mayor of Bristol, Marvin Rees, dropped into a football training session with students from Snowdon Village. It is a group of schools in Cabot Learning Federation multi-academy trust providing an alternative provision for students who have been excluded from mainstream schools or who have specific learning needs that mean they find it difficult to cope in a mainstream setting. Before the training session, Marvin delivered a frank and insightful mentoring session to students about his own school
bishopstonvoice
LOCAL SERVICES
To advertise, contact Emma on 0117 9082121 or 07715 770448 or email emma@bishopstonvoice.co.uk AERIAL SPECIALISTS
days and the obstacles he had to overcome in his early years. It was then on to the pitch at Dings Rugby Club, for a staff vs students match with Marvin playing for the staff team. Alex Davies, Principal of Snowdon Village, said: “It was fantastic to see our children engaging in conversations with Marvin about his childhood and education as well as giving him a run for his money on the pitch! It’s really important for our children to see strong role models who have things in common with them.”
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07786 513788 or 0117 907 6997 Cranside Avenue, Redland, BS6 7RA
www.carterdecorating.co.uk
Classic & Natural stone tiles High Quality Finish Specialising in Italian showers Free Quote Contemporary & Provençale kitchens Bristol & Surrounding Areas Interior & Exterior Masonry& DECORATING PAINTING Interior & façade painting
Renovation Painter Tiler Decorator
Builder & Interior Decorator
17 Years Experience Tiling Interior & Exterior Masonry E: dacriscobuilder3@gmail.com Interior & Facade T: 0117 401 8568 / 07557 335 956 PaintingDacrisco Builder No Job Too Small Free Quote 17 Years Experience
T: 0117 382 7716 / 07557 335 956 E: dacriscobuilder9@gmail.com
To advertise, contact Emma on 0117 9082121 or 07715 770448 or email emma@bishopstonvoice.co.uk.
bishopstonvoice
April, 2022 PLUMBING
47
REUPHOLSTERY
RUBBISH CLEARANCE
JPK PLUMBING From a dripping tap upwards Reliable, qualified, fully insured
Phone: John Keegan 125 Bishop Rd, Bishopston, BS7 8LX
Garden, Clearance House, Garden, Office Clearance House,House, Garden, OfficeOffice Clearance
House, Garden, Office Clearance - all Plus all other Plus All Your Other Waste Removal Needs too! House, Garden, Office Clearance -- Plus other House, Garden, Office Clearance Plus all other Plus Your Other Waste Removal Needs too! Plus All All Your Other Waste Removal Needs too! On-average Average cheaper than a skip. On cheaper than aa skip. OnAverage cheaper than skip. removal On average cheaper waste removal On cheaper than aa skip wastewaste removal -Average On average cheaper than than skipa skip
07592 003 Tel: 07592 506 003003 Tel: 07592 506 Tel:Tel: 07592 506506 003
www.junkmonsters.co.uk www.junkmonsters.co.uk
After
Before
SASH WINDOWS
SnugSash.co.uk
The Bristol Plumber Bathroom & Kitchen Installation
No VAT, Free no obligation quote
07540607626
ed@thebristolplumber.com facebook.com/thebristolplumber
PLUMBING
COPPERMILL HEATING PLUMBING & HEATING ENGINEERS • CENTRAL HEATING INSTALLATION & REPAIR • GAS, OIL & LPG • P O W E R F L U S H I N G • LANDLORD CERTIFICATES • BOILER SERVICING • PLUMBING INSTALLATION & REPAIR
FREE ESTIMATES
CALL 07769 693300
WWW.COPPERMILLHEATING.COM
PLUMBING
3/4 Load 3/4 £199 3/4 Load Load £199£199 Full Load Full £249 Full Load Load £249£249
07900 582 817 • 0117 924 7286
5+ Years Experience, Tiling, Bathroom Fitting, Kitchens, Radiators, All Small Jobs
Half Half £149 Half Load Load Load £149£149
Let it live again!
elfontanero@hotmail.co.uk www.jpkplumbingbristol.co.uk
PLUMBING
1/4 Load 1/4 £99 1/4 Load Load £99 £99
Reuse & Recycle
Sash window specialist
FREE collection & delivery on
• Renovation • Draughtproofing • Double glazing • Repairs • Painting
all orders placed in March. (Valued at £80!)
We can fit double glazing to your sash windows!
0117 924 8383 119 Coldharbour Road. BS6 7SD sofa.magic @sofamagic
www.snugsash.co.uk 07736 229727 SnugSash
ROOFING
TREE SURGEON
T M HOBBS ROOFING
• Tree Removal & Felling • Crown Reduction • Hedge Trimming • Crown Lifting • Dead Wood Removal
Established 1989 • Based in Bishopston
Pitched or flat roofs repaired or replaced Guttering & Cladding, uPVC Fascias & Soffits Chimneys, flashings & parapet walls repaired Skylights & Veluxes Installed Insurance Work Undertaken • Free Estimates Minor work welcome
Tel: 01179 426 436
ADVERTISE YOUR BUSINESS
ADVERTISE YOUR BUSINESS From as little as
£20.00 +VAT
Per month
Fully Qualified
Free quotes & advice
Insured
Tel: Robert Woodgate
07548 367044 or 0117 239 8343 greenglobetreesurgery@gmail.com
www.greenglobetreesurgery.com WASTE DISPOSAL
RUBBISH CLEARED
Registered upper tier waste carrier licence no CBDU225074
We load and clear rubbish/junk from houses Flats, Sheds, Attics, Gardens etc etc No job too small - we even clear single items Cheaper than a skip and we load no VAT Contact Stuart or Sue
E-MAIL:
sales@bishopstonvoice.co.uk
Freephone 0800 0234 995 Mobile 07770944727 anytime inc. weekends
To advertise, contact Emma on 0117 9082121 or 07715 770448 or email emma@bishopstonvoice.co.uk.
C A M ER ON L EE C A R P E T S
HOME VISITS
EXPERT FITTING
Full range of top quality:
Carpets, Natural Flooring, Karndean, Amtico, Engineered Wood Flooring Front cover:
Glacier Oak SM-RL21 - page 36. This page:
Prairie Oak RL20 with Quadrant border - page 41.
www.cameronlee.co.uk Henleaze:
Clifton Village:
Cameron Lee Carpets Ltd
Cameron Lee Carpets Ltd
91 Henleaze Road
42 The Mall,
Henleaze
Clifton,
Bristol
Bristol,
BS9 4JP
BS8 4JG
T: 0117 942 0984
T: 0117 914 7575
Open Monday-Saturday 9am-5pm
Open Monday-Saturday 9am-5pm